AT the CORE Spring 2010

FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY AT THE CORE Spring 2010

A PUBLICATION OF THE COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES

TABLE OF CONTENTS Prestigious Fellowships awarded Presitigious Fellowships awarded...... 1

Innovations in cancer research...... 2 rs. Ron Davidson and Joy

New Senior Vice President Gordon received highly spends time in the classroom...... 2 competitive fellowships Dfrom the National Endowment for CT Professor of the Year...... 3 the Humanities (NEH) to write Gifts & grants...... 3 books. Dr. Davidson also received A year of celebration: an American Council of Learned The R&J Project...... 4 & 5 Societies (ACLS) Fellowship. These Latin America...... 6 Fellowships support advanced J. Santopate J. Communities in Action...... 7 research meant for humanities Contributed scholars and general audiences. Dr. Ron Davidson Dr. Joy Gordon Students receive study abroad scholarships...... 8 Susan LaFrance, director of sponsored programs said, “Being selected for an NEH Shakespeare LIVE!...... 8 Fellowship is extremely prestigious as they are exceptionally competitive and quite difficult

Brainy Outreach...... 9 to receive.” Noël Appel, director of foundation relations explained, “The ACLS Fellowship received by Dr. Davidson is an important achievement for Fairfield and the first of its kind. The Science Institute...... 9 There were 1,136 eligible applications of which 57 awards were made this year.” NBC Page – Meg Hallissy ’10...... 10 Dr. Davidson, professor of religious studies, noted that the process for developing a Fairfield hosts Fulbright TA from Russia...... 10 good grant proposal was vital to his success. “I attended workshops for both the NEH and ACLS grants at Connecticut College, and there received feedback from one of the NEH Board of Advisor Members...... 11 officers, who was extremely helpful.” CAS Board of Advisor events...... 11 Dr. Davidson received $50,400 from NEH, and $53,132 from ACLS for his next Message from the Dean...... 12 book entitled Imperial Buddhas, Tantric Origins: the Emperor Arising from the Buddha’s Turban. Tom Gallo: a man for others...... 12 This book will investigate the origins of Buddhist tantrism in seventh to eighth-century CE India. By examining dozens of primary Buddhist documents in Sanskrit, Chinese, and Tibetan, Dr. Davidson will write about the earliest tantric Buddhist system: “The Emperor Arising from the Buddha’s Turban.” Dr. Gordon, professor of philosophy, also received a fellowship of $50,400 for her book A Peaceful, Silent, Deadly Remedy: The Ethics of Economic Sanctions, which will provide an analysis of ethical issues related to economic sanctions. Dr. Gordon said, “I’m delighted to have this opportunity to complete a book on ethical aspects of economic sanctions. As we’ve seen in Iraq, they can have a devastating impact on the population, yet they continue to be a critical tool of U.S. foreign policy.” Dr. Gordon recently published her first book Invisible War: The United States and the Iraq Sanctions printed by Harvard University Press.

www.fairfield.edu/cas AT THE CORE: The College of Arts and Sciences Spring 2010

Innovations in cancer research CT Professor of the Year Gifts & Grants from right) discussed the findings of their research projects, r. Laura Nash, director of the Funding of $298,601 was received from the U.S. Army both of which were funded by the National Institutes of music program who has worked Medical Research and Material Command for a project to Health. Current Fairfield students Katie Sullivan ’11, and to bring music to inner city develop a novel optical imaging modality for the detection, Bianca DeAngelo ’12 (pictured), were part of the panel and Dclassrooms, was the 2009 Carnegie diagnosis, and prognosis of prostate cancer. Dr. Min Xu impressed the audience with the breadth of complex research Foundation for the Advancement of (Physics) is the project director. that Fairfield students are engaging with today. Teaching Connecticut Professor of the A grant of $75,000 was received from Research Corporation “I think it is really important for alumni and students to Year. The honor was announced in November in Washington, D.C. for a two-year project to engage undergraduate students in a get a chance to connect in events that are focused on academ- study exploring the use of light to noninvasively detect differ-

ic activities at the University,” said Dr. Sybertz. “Such events Contributed The foundation honored Dr. Nash for ences between normal and breast cancer cells. Drs. Shelley Dr. Laura Nash provide alumni with a chance to see what is happening at the her innovative Music for an Urban District Phelan (Biology) and Min Xu co-direct the project. University and provide students with a supportive forum in

Contributed program. In 2003, she created the program with a $670,000 three- The Connecticut Writing Project (CWP) received $47,500 from Dean Crabtree (far left) and Dr. Ted Sybertz (far right) with faculty which to present their research.” year grant from the U.S. Department of Education. and student researchers. the CT State Department of Education; $46,000 from the Dr. Xu said, “Alumni seemed to be engaged and they were “As a scholar demonstrating integration of teaching excellence, U.S. Department of Education through the National Writing enzyme Corporation’s state-of-the-art research impressed and proud of the progress made by the College in intellectual contributions, broad service and leadership, and commit- Project, plus an additional $5,000 grant to support work with facility in Waltham, Mass. was the perfect site for faculty research and the achievement demonstrated by our ment to Fairfield’s educational mission,” says Dean Robbin Crabtree, emerging technologies. Finally, People’s Bank granted $5,000 a “Faculty on the Road” presentation in October. young student researchers. The response from our alumni and “Dr. Nash exemplifies the values of the Carnegie Foundation, and its to support teachers from low-income schools in the CWP’s GHosted by Dr. Edmund J. Sybertz ’72, Senior Vice President their parents was overwhelmingly warm and encouraging. Professor of the Year Award.” annual Invitational Summer institute. Faye Gage serves as – Scientific Affairs, Genzyme Corporation & College of Some alumni also expressed their desire to assist us in cancer The program brings Fairfield faculty to mentor Bridgeport teach- Director of CWP-Fairfield. The Associate Directors are Dr. Arts and Sciences Board of Advisor member, and Dr. Robbin research carried out on campus. Everyone is looking forward ers and provides year-round professional development and equipment. Betsy Bowen (English); Andrew Neidich (Briggs Academy, Crabtree, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, this ses- to the next such event.” Among the many success stories to emerge is a popular African drum Norwalk); and Lynn Winslow. sion explored how Fairfield University is making a difference “This event is also an example of how Fairfield alumni can circle comprised of Bridgeport teachers who represented Connecticut in cancer research. This program is part of the life long learn- stay engaged,” said Dr. Crabtree. “Dr. Sybertz often attends the at a national showcase in Washington, D.C. College of Arts and Sciences Board of Advisor, Harry ing theme implemented by Alumni Chapters across the coun- Sigma Xi poster session where students present their scientific Rissetto’65 has provided support to the Academic Division in The work is timely, Dr. Nash said, because “current research shows try for alumni, parents, and friends of the University. research each year, has hosted summer interns at his company, the amount of $50,000 for a Jesuit Recruitment and Retention a robust relationship between literacy and language development and Dr. Shelley Phelan (center), associate professor of biol- spoke on a career panel for students in the sciences, and serves Fund. These funds will be overseen by Paul Fitzgerald, S.J., learning in music and in drama.” ogy, and Dr. Min Xu, assistant professor of physics (second on the College of Arts & Sciences Board of Advisors.” senior vice president of academic affairs. Dr. Ellen Umansky (Religious Studies) received a $50,000 grant from the Schnurmacher Foundation for the Carl and New Senior Vice President spends time in the classroom Dorothy Bennett Center for Judaic Studies. ev. Paul Fitzgerald, S.J. didn’t waste tunity to study Catholic thought on the Church to study philosophy and received a Ph. B (B.A.) in Philosophy from The ASIANetwork/Henry Luce Foundation has funded any time before jumping into Fairfield with someone who has international scholarly the Jesuit-run Hochschule fr Philosophie in Munich. Following with $31,000 to the Asian Studies Program to hire a postdoctoral University’s community. Named as the credentials. Seeing the commitment of senior degrees from the Weston School of Theology, and the University teaching fellow to teach courses in historical and contempo- Rnew Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs administrators to the teaching mission of the of Paris – La Sorbonne, Fr. Fitzgerald joined the department of rary aspects of Japan. Dr. Manyul Im (Philosophy) directs in February of 2009, he began his duties in July school – to the life of the mind – is a lesson that Religious Studies at Santa Clara in 1997. the project. of that same year. goes far beyond the classroom.” Fr. Fitzgerald noted, “I love to teach, and during my five years of Fairfield University received a grant of $25,000 from Bank of In addition to his workload in the Academic Fr. Fitzgerald’s background includes an administrative work at Santa Clara University, I always taught at least America for its BASE Camp-Broadening Access to Science Administrative office, Fr. Fitzgerald also impressive array of academic credentials, inter- one section per year. I accepted Dr. Dallavalle’s invitation for the Education program. Dr. Shelley Phelan is the project director. taught “The Church” in the Religious Studies national experience, collaboration, and teaching. following reason: I wanted to get to know a random sample of stu- The F.M. Kirby Foundation has renewed funding of $25,000 Department. Dr. Nancy Dallavalle, Chair and After graduating from Santa Clara University dents. They do indeed present a cross section of Fairfield. They are for the Adrienne Kirby Family Literacy Project. Dr. Judy

associate professor of religious studies said, “We Santopatre J. he entered the Society of Jesus at the Jesuit generally quite bright, hard working, curious, and they even laugh at Primavera (Psychology) is the project director. are delighted to offer our students this oppor- Rev. Paul Fitzgerald, S.J. Novitiate in California before going to Germany my jokes – sometimes.”

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A year of celebration As part of Fairfield University’s plan to integrate the plethora of artistic, cultural, and academic events on campus, three areas of focus were chosen for the 2009-2010 academic year: The Romeo and Juliet Project (R&J); Latin America: Images, Dialogue, and Action; and Communities in Action. The next few pages show some of the many events celebrated on campus.

The R&J Project: Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet

The Department of Visual and Performing Arts presented an exploration of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet sponsored by the CAS Board of Advisors and the Humanities Institute in the Drs. Robert Epstein, Lynn Porter, Richard Regan, Liz “What attracted the CAS Board of Advisors to the R&J College of Arts and Sciences. Haas, and Pat Behere (podium) lecture about the role project was that it provided students from across This yearlong exploration pre- of women in Shakespeare’s plays. disciplines the opportunity to participate in a relevant and engaging theatrical project. Visiting artists Sonya sented lectures, workshops, Photo by Bob WInkler special exhibitions, and other and Barbra Berlovitz have been a wonderful creative projects based on the themes of presence on campus and produced a valuable cultural Romeo and Juliet. experience that the students will carry with them well beyond their time at Fairfield.” – Mickey Murray, CAS R&J Poster image: Contributed Board of Advisors

Photo by Jean Santopatre

Guest director Barbra Berlovitz and costume designer Sonya Berlovitz, both founders of the award-winning Theatre de la Jeune Lune, led the culminating Theatre Fairfield performances. Dr. Curt Tofteland (above), Artistic Director of Shakespeare Martha LoMonaco, professor of theatre, Behind Bars, the only Shakespeare company operat- directed the R&J Project and Kerry ing inside a medium-security male prison. The primary Davies ’11 was the project intern. goal is for each inmate to address complex emotional Photo by Jean Santopatre issues through theatre, encouraging the development Romeo & Juliet play rehearsal. Barbra Berlovitz, Director, of both personal and interpersonal life skills. The docu- shows the actors in the fight scene how to move. mentary film on his company was screened at Fairfield “I never envisioned that there was so much to be learned followed by a Q&A. from and so many possible interpretations of Romeo and Photo by Bob WInkler Juliet. The University’s production was riveting, a mind expanding experience. Thanks for the privilege of partici- Studio art students went to the Center for Contemporary Printmaking pating in the R&J Project.” – Diane Allison ’75, CAS Board to work on special R&J banners that were hung around the University. of Advisors Photo by Jean Santopatre Photo by Jean Santopatre

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Latin America: Images, Dialogue, and Action Communities in Action: A Year of Activism Through a series of events revolving around Latin America, Fairfield University sought to promote scholarly and artistic Social justice and diversity constitute the two underlying values of Fairfield University’s Strategic Plan. The goal of this project enquiries into factors affecting integration between the U.S. and that region by showcasing the university’s own curricular, was to build upon the incredible work already being done on campus to advance the university’s mission for social justice. and research-related initiatives in connection with different Latin American countries. Dr. Gisela Gil-Egui, associate professor Dr. Jocelyn Boryczka, associate professor of politics, was the director of this series of events. of communication, was the director of this project.

At the Newyorican Artistic Movement students and fellow artists gathered to celebrate the works of visual artist Adal Maldonado, and legend- ary Newyorican poets Tato Laviera, Papoleto Jennifer Baumgardner and Amy Richards, authors of Melendez, and Mariposa. Grassroots: A Field Guide for Feminist Activism visited At the culminating summit “Dare to Act, Act to campus to discuss their book and lead the University In October Junot Díaz, the 2008 Pulitzer Prize-winning Photo by Jean Santopatre Change” Dr. Renee White (l) and Rev. Gerry Blasczcak, in workshops designed to help create safe spaces to author of The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, deliv- S.J. (r) presented the keynote lecture while through- discuss activism on campus. Shawne Lomauro ’11 ered a lecture and spoke to both undergraduate and out the day students presented a variety of projects organized this event. graduate students in mini-workshops. dealing with activism. Photo by Jean Santopatre Photo by BK Angeletti Photo by Jean Santopatre

Chandler Oliphant ’12, the organizer of “Posing for Peace” decided to hold a fashion show where students would display items of clothing that displayed peace signs and discuss what this common symbol means to them. “There was a wonderful turnout, and that made all of the The Dirty Laundry Project invited the campus com- hard work, time, and effort munity to engage with social taboos that people that was put into the John “Crash” Matos (l), a world-famous graffiti artist, often choose to ignore or feel uncomfortable talking event BEYOND worth it!” presented his work at the Thomas J. Walsh Art Gallery. The “Crash” exhibition featured a collaborative mural about. Students were invited to create their own said Oliphant. Photo by Jean Santopatre Matos created with a select group of Bridgeport Central piece of ‘Dirty Laundry.’ Students Mary McGrath ’10 Photo by Bob Winkler High School students. and Jennifer Martin ’10 led the project.

Photo by Jean Santopatre Photo by Bob Winkler

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Shakespeare LIVE! Brainy Outreach The Science Institute By Courtney Kern ’12 By Meredith Guinness hether students are out in the field tudents in Drs. Robert Epstein and Shannon Kelley’s The trip was part of Fairfield’s R&J project, a yearlong eventh-grader Gabbi Torres took observing how tourism affects Magellanic English classes got a special chance to experience one celebration of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Dr. Epstein said the human brain in her surgical penguins in Argentina, or in a lab study- of William Shakespeare’s classics as it was meant to be the trip was important because students could see and under- gloved-hands and winced. ingW the synthesis of Tri-Functionalized Guanines, the Sseen: Live. stand Shakespeare’s plays as living art. “Based on their writ- S hands-on experience Fairfield faculty can offer to stu- “Eww,” she said, passing it to class- ten responses and class comments after the performance, the dents is invaluable. The professors acquired a $2,385 grant from the mate Andrew LaFleur. “This is hard students seemed to find the play very interesting and enter- Humanities Institute of the College of Arts and Sciences to and weird and gross.” To continue to offer these opportunities Fairfield taining, and it certainly seems to have enhanced the literary take their students on a trip to Brooklyn, N.Y. to see the has created the Science Institute, an endowed fund in the experience for most of them,” he said. “It feels like gum!” he said, hold- Bard’s work performed by a professional group of actors. College of Arts and Sciences that supports activities in ing it out from his body. “I thought that the production was great and it was very The grant covered transportation for 50 students science and mathematics. Funding will cover a wide helpful to see it performed,” Stefanie Minuto ’12 said. “It is Gross or gummy as it may be, from two classes, “British Literature” and “Introduction to variety of projects, including innovative teaching, cur- interesting to connect what you imagine the setting and char- being able to examine a human brain Literature” to Brooklyn’s Academy of Music (BAM). Tony riculum development, equipment purchases, lectures, acters to be like when you read and then see it performed is not something your typical seventh- and Academy Award winning director, Sam Mendes, directed and grants for research. live. I would definitely see another play performed after hav- grader gets to do, said Molly Thimons, the Bridge Project at the BAM, which featured both British “The Science Institute will support the early ing read a book in class,” she concluded. their science teacher at St. Ann School Santopate J. and American actors. The Academy was showing The Tempest, research of junior faculty providing them with essen- in Bridgeport. And it’s only one of Students from St. Ann School which culminated the students’ reading in their classes. observe a rat in a maze. tial resources to make progress toward publications,” the unique science-related activities said Dean Robbin Crabtree. “This investment plays a students from St. Ann and Black Rock School are able to do thanks to significant role as the faculty members begin to pursue an innovative, service-learning component in Dr. Shannon Harding’s external grants from government, foundation, and cor- psychobiology course. A $2,440 grant from Connecticut Campus Students receive study abroad scholarships porate sources,” added Rev. Paul Fitzgerald, S.J., senior Compact helped Dr. Harding create this program, which brings vice president for academic affairs. “The Science hree Fairfield students received World Affairs Forum Junior Thomas Russo won a scholarship for $1,000 to middle schoolers to campus for a day of experimentation and provides Institute also will be one source of matching funds scholarships to study abroad in the 2009-2010 aca- study development and globalization in Khon Kaen, Thailand, $800 worth of equipment and microscopes to each school. demic year. This year, Fairfield’s students had the which related to his major in international studies. He exam- needed for highly competitive grants, which require The partnership also offers Dr. Harding’s students a chance to Tdistinction of receiving all of the scholarships that the Forum ined on a global level the effects of environmental growth in institutional commitment of additional resources.” teach. “They say you never fully understand something until you have offered. developing countries and the result- The fund will seed the work of early-career schol- to teach it,” said Dr. Harding, who recently received the 2010 College ing impacts on social justice and ars or new avenues of research for seasoned scholars. The World Affairs Forum is a non- of Arts and Sciences Award for Distinguished Teaching. She will bring human rights issues. The biology, chemistry, mathematics, computer sci- profit organization dedicated to expand- her students to the Bridgeport schools this year to help the kids study ence, physics, and psychology departments have 45 ing understanding of global affairs and Gretta Schwamb, a junior, brain slices with their new microscopes. America’s role in the world. The forum is received a scholarship for $1,000 doctorally-prepared faculty members; nearly all have Aidan Quinn ’11 plans a career in research and cognitive neurosci- an affiliate of the World Affairs Councils to study at the University of active research programs, many of which involve stu- ence, but he said he enjoyed giving back to the community by working of America and developed this program to Melbourne, Australia from July to dents. For instance, students took part in 95 research with the children. “This group is amazing, too,” he said. “They’re unbe- encourage deserving students interested November 2009 and in Germany at projects in 2008-2009, 62 of which resulted in a pub- lievably interested and very quick and engaged.” in pursuing an international career to the Baden-Wurttemberg Exchange lished paper or conference attendance. Contributed study abroad. (l-r) Stephen Bottari, Gretta Schwamb, and program from January to August Earlier in the day, the students helped with rat mazes. Katie The Colleges of Arts and Sciences Board of Thomas Russo. 2010. Hassett ’11 placed a rat in a large enclosure on the ground, strewn Stephen Bottari, a sophomore, was Advisors and other alumni, parents, and friends have with Froot Loops. While the rat gobbled up the cereal at the edges awarded $3,000 to study in Managua, Nicaragua at the With majors in international studies and economics, been providing leadership in support of this new of the box, it wouldn’t venture into the center, where it might be Universidad Centro Americana. A communication major Schwamb will learn about the open economy of Australia endowment. Board members Larry ’87 and Victoria exposed to danger. “See?” Hassett said. “For this experiment, we saw with a Latin American and Caribbean studies minor, Bottari along with its connection to the Asian economy. While in ’88 Hicks recently donated a gift of $50,000 to the that food is just not enough of a motivator to make the rat go out took part in the University’s Duran, Ecuador Service and Germany she will study the new monetary system being inte- endowment, with additional support through the gen- there.” Immersion Program. In addition to a full immersion experi- grated in the European Union. erosity of Dan Quirk, P’12 whose $100,000 gift is ence, Bottari also did service work during the semester. supporting the Institute as well.

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NBC Page – Meg Hallissy ’10 The College of Arts and Sciences Welcomes New By Courtney Kern ’12 Board of Advisor Members ot many Fairfield seniors can say they have per- President, decided to perform a rap to the tune of the theme formed a rap to land their dream job. Meg Hallissy, song of the television show, Fresh Prince of Bel Air. Hallissy sang Joellin graduated from Fairfield Larry is a 1987 history graduate University in 1974 with a B.A. in of Fairfield University and is the a communication major, did just that in an inter- about being a “Fresh Page of New York.” English. She received an MBA from President and CEO of NeuroTherm Nview for NBC to land a unique internship as a Page for the Cornell University in 1977 and (r), a private equity backed medical Hallissy credits her academic advisor, Dr. David well-known television network. joined Accenture Ltd (then Arthur device company that specializes Gudelunas, for encouraging her to get involved in Andersen Consulting) in 1977 and in products for the treatment of Featured on the hit television show 30 Rock with the char- communication. Dr. Gudelunas said, “She was a great fit worked happily there for 30 years chronic pain. With offices now in acter of Kenneth Parcell, an NBC Page is called by NBC, “the for the major because she is forward-thinking, intellectu- until her retirement in 2007. the greater Boston, London, and Amsterdam markets, Larry has led Joellin traveled continuously best, most diverse talent.” The program lasts for a year and ally daring, and creative. Both in and out of the classroom a small business through rapid ex- for business and lived for periods focuses on four areas in the company: guest relations, market- Meg ‘gets it’ and is able to think about how to connect her pansion and growth. Joellin Comerford ’74 of time in Tokyo, London, and San Larry Hicks ’87 ing, public relations, and production. Hallissy said, “It’s the theoretical and intellectual knowledge of communication and Francisco (while always wanting Prior to joining NeuroTherm in whole Jesuit ideals sort of thing; you are trained in all aspects media to the real world application of media practice.” to return to New York!). Joellin is single, the oldest of nine 2006, he was President and CEO of the Urology Division of of media and leave there with a very strong knowledge of children and aunt to 17 wonderful nieces and nephews. Of Gyrus ACMI, a U.K. based PLC. He also serves on the Board Beginning her Page responsibilities just a couple of those in university, none have gone to Fairfield yet, but 13 of Arteriocyte Medical Systems, a leader in platelet rich everything media related; [it is] all encompassing.” months after graduation in May, Hallissy will be focused on remain in the wings. plasma (PRP) therapies. Along with 64 other candidates (out of 10,000) Hallissy the fact that 65 percent of NBC pages become entry-level Joellin currently resides in Miami and New York. She was chosen after participating in a three-part interview employees within the company. But, as graduation approach- still enjoys travel (for leisure), opera, and is attempting to Victoria is a 1988 political science improve her Brooklyn accented French and Italian. process culminating in a two-minute panel presentation. In es, Hallissy said, “I am very nostalgic and sad to leave Fairfield. graduate of Fairfield University and is the Managing Partner of order to stand out and leave a lasting impression on the panel, I couldn’t have done it without everyone I’ve met here.” Bob is Vice President of Drake Partners, LLC, a real estate Hallissy, who has experience singing as Fairfield’s Glee Club Pharmaceutical Research investment and vacation rental and Development at Glatt Air business. She is also an active Techniques in Ramsey, N.J. member of the Wellesley Women’s where he is working on estab- Service League in Wellesley, Mass. Fairfield hosts Fulbright TA from Russia lishing a generic drug products Victoria began work after gradu- development and manufacturing ation with Carol Wright Sales in By Lisa Calderone division within that firm. Victoria Hicks ’88 Stamford, Conn., and held a myriad of roles with progressive responsi- ailing from Omsk, one of Russia’s urban centers diversity on campus and to educate students to become Bob graduated from Fairfield bility before dedicating her time and focus on raising University in 1981 with a major in a family. east of the Ural Mountains, Fulbright Teaching global citizens.” Dr. Robert A. Femia ’81 chemistry and a minor in math- Assistant Elena Sergeeva was attracted to Fairfield ematics. Following undergradu- Victoria and her husband Larry met at Fairfield and During Sergeeva’s term at Fairfield, she is learning as married in 1990. They have three children: Ally, Sarah, and HUniversity for the same reason many locals are. The beach. ate work, Bob entered Seton Hall University and received much about her own culture as she is about the U.S. “I feel I his doctorate degree in 1985 in analytical/physical Bobby. After several years living in Westlake Village, Calif., “I love the ocean,” says Sergeeva. “I have to travel 10,000 am more Russian here than I am at home. You learn to recog- chemistry. they now reside in Wellesley, Mass., and spend summers and holidays in Conn. kilometers through Europe to Portugal to see the ocean. nize your culture only in comparison with another culture.” Bob currently resides with his wife of 27 years, The Hicks recently donated a gift of $50,000 to the When I saw that Fairfield was on the shore, I was so happy!” Tricia Femia (also a Board member) in Kinnelon, N.J. and Mantoloking, N.J. They have three children, Robert CAS Science Institute Endowment which will directly fund Sergeeva didn’t hesitate to dive into her new position Jr., Page, and Paul. His hobbies include boating, fishing, faculty research and projects to strengthen the sciences in CAS. as Fairfield’s first Russian and East European Studies (RES) classical music, and cooking. Fulbright Teaching Assistant. In addition to teaching Oral Practice Sessions for the Russian language, she has been leading the weekly Russian Hour gatherings where she shares College of Arts and Sciences Board of Advisor events cultural perspective on issues such as education, travel, pas- March 22, 2010 - Harry Rissetto ’65, Board Member, Board understanding your options, following your heart: a conversa- times, sports, cuisine, holidays, and more. of Advisors, hosted the Health Care Reform Alumni Chapter/ tion on life’s transitions from a Jesuit perspective. Special School of Nursing event in Washington, D.C. guests will include Rev. Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J., President, Dr. Marie-Agnés Sourieau, Chair of modern languages June 6, 2010 - Susan Alexander ’78, Chair, Board of Advisors, Rev. Paul Fitzgerald, Senior Vice President, Academic Affairs, and Dr. Robbin Crabtree, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences.

and literatures said, “Sergeeva’s role is an invaluable element Contributed will host a brunch in Bridgehampton for alumni, parents, of the University’s effort to embrace and promote cultural Elena (l) paints traditional Matryoshka dolls with students. and friends celebrating the topic – Leading an Inspired Life–

102 www.fairfield.edu/cas www.fairfield.edu/cas 115 AT THE CORE At The Core is published twice a year Message from the Dean by Fairfield University for alumni, Dear alumni, colleagues, and friends, students, parents, benefactors, and friends of the College of Arts and Sciences. pring is a time when we see our work come to fruition – in the form of tenure and promotion decisions for our fine faculty, awards events Fairfield University J.Santopatre 1073 North Benson Rd. for our graduating seniors, student capstones, and research. Bellarmine Hall S Fairfield, CT 06824-5195 This spring has been more vibrant than usual, as the “Year of Activism” culminated in a series of student-produced performances, events, and EDITORIAL BOARD experiential exhibits and the “R&J Project” brought visiting artists Barbra and Sonja Berlovitz to Dr. Robbin Crabtree campus for the final phase of lectures, courses, productions, and exhibits related to their unique Dean, College of Arts and Sciences and contemporary interpretation of Romeo & Juliet. These are only a few examples of the ways the Carolyn Arnold At The Core Editor College at Fairfield University creates high-impact learning experiences for students and produces a campus culture characterized by enormous student and faculty engagement. Noël Appel ’80, M.A.’09 College of Arts and Sciences Advancement Liaison This edition of the College of Arts and Sciences newsletter explores these stories and others Jean Santopatre, M.A.’09 that demonstrate the ways the collaborations of students, faculty, staff, and alumni produce a last- University Photojournalist ing and impactful education in the Jesuit tradition. Ed Ross ’86, M.A.’89 Senior Graphic Designer I would like to add a special note of appreciation to my College of Arts and Sciences Board of Advisors for their partnership in support of the College and steadfast interest in learning more Courtney Kern ’12 Intern about students and faculty activities. Their support of programming and of the endowments in the

Tess Brown College are helping to realize our highest aspirations. MFA in Creative Writing Graduate Assistant

Sara Colabella M.A. in Communication Graduate Assistant Robbin Crabtree, Ph.D. Dean, College of Arts and Sciences

Tom Gallo: a man for others hen Tom Gallo, purchasing manager at Sikorsky Aerospace Maintenance, began pursuing his Master’s in Communication at Fairfield University he had Wno idea that his final thesis subject (on domestic violence) would inspire him so much that he would eventually become a member of the board for the Center for Women and Families (CWF) and chair a special White Ribbon Campaign initiative. Contributed “While doing research on domestic violence I found the CWF (l-r) Deb Greenwood, CEO for CWF; Stephanie Stacy; Coleen Parker; in Bridgeport. As I began to delve into the subject and find out Tom Gallo, M.A.’08; and Sarah Lubarsky attend a WRC event. why women remain in violent situations and the communication Part of the Solution,” an ongoing project, which seeks to end vio- influences that kept them there, I interviewed members of staff lence against women by engaging men in the process of personal, and survivors of domestic violence at CWF.” relational, and social change. In September of 2009 Gallo was hon- After listening to real stories of domestic violence, Gallo ored by the Center as an exemplary community leader. wanted to become more involved. “I learned that it’s not easy “The main goal is to challenge everyone to speak out against to leave an abusive relationship, and was inspired by the stories domestic abuse,” Gallo said. “Anyone can sign a pledge, but it’s I heard and knew that it was something I wanted to investigate.” what you feel in your heart: that violence against women is unac- CWF invited him to volunteer in a variety of ways. ceptable.” Dean Crabtree noted, “Tom’s community-based research Eventually the CWF asked him to become a Board Member and commitment to continued service illustrates well how our and Chairman for a White Ribbon Campaign called “Men as graduate programs are infused with the Jesuit ideals and ethics.”

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