FALL 2018

Opening the Gates: Lin-Manuel Miranda in Conversation with Bill and Melinda at Hunter College

In This Issue:

Rapping with THE PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

Bill & Melinda 3 Photo: John Abbott any wonderful things are happening at Hunter now—from students winning Banner Year for prestigious awards like our first-ever Rhodes Scholarship, to faculty receiving major Student Awards 4 M grants and national honors, to a campus that’s being dramatically modernized and expanded. It’s why we’re all so excited about celebrating Hunter’s 150th anniversary in 2020. Computer Science It will be a year of promoting Hunter as a transformative institution, celebrating its Surges Forward 6 legacy of advancing women and minorities, highlighting it as a hub of the arts, and show- casing it as a center of thought leadership. We’re making plans now for a yearlong series of High Rankings events, so I hope as many of our wonderful alumni as possible will be able to participate. for Hunter 8 It’s always a joy for me to greet returning alums, especially when they were students I knew as undergraduates. There have been several inspiring encounters this year, most re- Future Faculty 9 cently when I accepted an award from the Harlem Educational Activities Fund, a marvelous organization that helps put minority boys and girls on the college track. We’re proud that Hunter Bookshelf 10 many of them choose to go to Hunter, including the wonderful alumna who introduced me at the ceremony, Evelyn Perez-Albino ’08. Happenings at Hunter 12 Evelyn was born in the Dominican Republic, grew up in Wash- ington Heights (my old neighborhood), got into Bronx Science High Roosevelt House School thanks to HEAF’s support, and was an outstanding student 75th Anniversary 14 in our pre-law program. She’s now a practicing attorney, a community activist—and a new mom. Her introduction was full of Community of Scholars 16 warm memories about her Hunter days, including the thrill of being taken to see the musical “In the Heights” and meeting Lin-Manuel  (L to R) Evelyn Perez- New Schools Miranda backstage. I couldn’t have been prouder. Albino ’08, Hunter Chancellor Calls 16 It was a pleasure for me to hear from our first Rhodes Scholar, President Raab, HEAF Thamara Jean ’18, who has settled into her studies at Oxford where, President Ruth Rathblott Arthur Elgort: Hunter's in keeping with a grand old university tradition, she has received Gift to Fashion 17 her “penguin suit.” This year’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony brought more Age-Friendly University 18 outstanding graduates back to the campus, including the great Hispanic community leader Jose Calderón ’97 and Dr. Patricia Bath ’64, Hall of Fame’s the first African-American woman to win a medical patent. Class of 2018 20 I’m always thrilled to welcome the wonderful Hunter graduates who attend the annual Reunion Day, including several centenarians 2018 Alumni Reunion 22 (there really is something in the Hunter water). And I was delighted to  Thamara Jean ’18 present an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters to Arthur Elgort 150 Years at Hunter 23 ’64, who combined his Hunter education and New York street smarts to revolutionize fashion photography. In Memoriam 23 If you are celebrating an anniversary year, we look forward to seeing you at our Reunion Lunch on April 6, 2019. This year will be extra special as our celebration will include alumni Meet Foundation celebrating their 20th and 25th reunions as well as welcoming all of our Bronx Campus Board Member alumni. It’s sure to be a great day “home” at Hunter. Marshall Sonenshine 24 We’ll keep you up-to-date on plans for the 150th anniversary celebration. And please stay in touch with everything happening at Hunter by visiting our website (www.hunter.cuny.edu). You also can follow us on our Twitter feeds (including @Hunter_ College and @HunterPresident), on Instagram (@HunterCollege and @HunterPresident) and at Hunter’s Facebook page. If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at [email protected].

www.hunter.cuny.edu @HunterPresident instagram.com/hunterpresident

2  Before introducing Bill and Melinda Gates, Lin-Manuel Miranda congratulated students for attending an “awesome school,” saying he “won the lottery at age six” when he was accepted to Hunter College Elementary School. RAPPING WITH BILL & MELINDA Lin-Manuel Miranda Leads a Wide-Ranging Q&A—and Hunter Students Ask Some Big Questions

hen Hunter College was chosen by the bolster educational equity and postsecond- Gates Foundation as the site to launch ary success. As a top-ranked public college, W its 10th Annual Letter, it was an Hunter has advanced that same mission for exceptional honor—and a natural fit. The Gates nearly 150 years, opening doors of opportunity Foundation spends about $500 million each year for generations of students.  At the 2008 Hunter College High School com- in the , most of it on initiatives to Bill and Melinda Gates could not have asked for mencement, Lin-Manuel Miranda celebrated a more thoughtful, engaged and perceptive group his Distinguished Graduate Award by inviting of students than those who gathered for the lively his former a cappella group on stage to perform. “When you get a good forum moderated by Hunter’s own Lin-Manuel Miranda, HCES ’92, HCHS ’98. After congratulat- another wanted to know how to promote effective education, when you go ing the assembled students for going to an birth control in Africa, and a Hunter Elementary “awesome school,” Miranda added that he “won to a Hunter College or School student asked, “What do you think you the lottery at age six” when he was accepted to could do to help bring theater to communities all a Hunter College High Hunter College Elementary School. “The educa- over the world?” That question prompted Miranda tion I got there shaped who I am,” he said. to jump in and emphasize the critical importance “ School, it changes the As the conversation got underway, Miranda of arts funding. “The arts are just as vital a part of trajectory of your life. We read questions submitted by attendees as well our economy as anything else,” he said. as the live Facebook audience. He even fielded When Bill Gates was asked what advice he want to make sure that one from Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, had for future entrepreneurs, he urged students who asked: “If you could go back and give your to stay in school and noted that students who all students in this coun- younger self one piece of advice, what would it pursue studies in the sciences will find that their try have that chance.” be? Asking for a friend.” skills can make a real difference. “If your talents The wide-ranging conversation covered take you toward science, programming, advances — Melinda Gates topics from philanthropy and global health to in biology, or energy breakthroughs, these areas education and current events. Throughout the are going to be the biggest source of change,” session, Bill and Melinda Gates were not only Gates said. “The only solution I see out there is open and engaging, but optimistic about the innovation,” he added. “If you have an inkling state of the world. One student asked whether that science grabs you —and it is hard work—that Alzheimer’s disease will ever be curable, is where a lot of the opportunity comes from.” ” 3 A BANNER YEAR FOR STUDENT AWARDS Hunter’s First-Ever Rhodes Scholar...

ll Rhodes lead to Oxford: and commitment to public service. Thamara Jean ’18 won In that program, she organized A the most prestigious aca- students on college campuses demic award available to American nationwide to participate in a film college graduates—the Rhodes screening and online discussion to Scholarship—and left for England raise awareness about the need for Jean believes that she will to begin her studies this fall. The an Equal Rights Amendment. She bring a unique perspective to first Hunter student to receive this also was one of just 10 students Oxford, and credits her outstanding award and just one of 32 Americans selected for the prestigious Mellon- education and the diverse commu- When I came to selected for this honor, Jean is Mays Fellowship, which allowed nity at Hunter for that. “Going to Hunter in 2016, I was pursuing an MPhil in political her to spend a summer conducting Hunter College definitely made me charged with enlarg- theory at the University of Oxford. research with a Harvard University see that people absorb knowledge ing“ the pool of students applying for academic fellowships and helping some to win the nation’s premier academic hon- ors. The very process of applying for fellowships encourages students to work closely with their mentors and think about their purpose—worthy goals in themselves. And  Bill Gates and Thamara Jean discussed activism, progress and how to make a difference during a LinkedIn remarkably, in just two interview that followed his historic visit to the Hunter campus. short years, we’ve had Jean’s achievements represent professor. Based on the glowing in different ways, that are formed winners of the Rhodes, a quintessential Hunter College— recommendation letter she earned by their own backgrounds and Luce, Marshall and cultures,” she says. and —success story. through that experience, she was Truman Scholarships— The daughter of Haitian immigrants invited to write her senior thesis— After she earns her master’s who work as a synagogue grounds- which focused on the Black Lives degree at Oxford, Jean intends to proving what’s possible keeper and a nurse, Jean graduated Matter movement—a year early pursue a PhD and then to immerse when you invest in from Edward R. Murrow High as a junior. herself in writing. “I would like to student success.” School in and arrived Jean’s parents couldn’t be proud- be able to produce knowledge that at Hunter as a Macaulay Scholar er of their daughter’s remarkable helps inform what is happening —Dr. Stephen Lassonde, with a passion for political science. achievement. “Seeing their kids politically and socially in the Director, Ruth & Harold In 2017, she was selected as an accomplish so much just reaffirms African-American community,” Newman Office of Presti- she says. Eva Kasten Grove Fellow in recogni- why they came to this country in gious Scholarships & tion of her academic achievement the first place,” Jean says. Fellowships 4 ” A BANNER YEAR FOR STUDENT AWARDS ... and Its Second Luce

atthew LoCastro ’17, a of study and professional work in graduate of Hunter’s an Asian country with the goal of M Macaulay Honors College, fostering a greater understanding has won the prestigious Luce of Asia among potential leaders Scholarship. Hunter is one of only in American society. Candidates two public colleges in New York for a Luce Scholarship must be State and the only public college in high-achieving college graduates New York City where students are with notable leadership potential tion Citizen, which aims to educate returns from Asia, and he definitely eligible to be considered for this but limited experience in Asia or middle and high school students plans to stay involved with his distinction. LoCastro is the second Asian studies. about civic action. He also studied alma mater. “I hope to give back Hunter student to win this prize. A native of Long Island, LoCastro Spanish in Argentina in an intensive as much as I can and help other The scholarship, which is served as Undergraduate Student four-week program and worked in students achieve their goals,” he awarded to 15-20 young American Government president. He co- a refugee camp in Greece. LoCastro says. “All I’ve learned and done scholars annually, finances a year founded the campus club Genera- hopes to attend law school when he comes from Hunter.”

Six New Fulbright Winners unter students’ impressive record for winning Fulbright awards continued Michael Mazzeo ’18, a Hthis year, maintaining the College’s status as a Top Producer of U.S Student Hunter Macaulay Honors Fulbrighters. Three members of the Class of 2018 and three other recent gradu- Scholar, majored in biochem- ates accepted Fulbrights this year, enabling them to teach, conduct research istry with a minor in human and study abroad. rights, and shared the honor of being co-valedictorian Victoria DiTomasso ’18, a Macaulay charter school where she had been with his twin sister, Marie Honors College Scholar, is spending planning to start work when she got Mazzeo, and three other a year in Germany studying “the news of her Fulbright award. members of the Class of smallest and dimmest stars in our Ardit Marku ’18 is spending his Ful- 2018. During his Fulbright galaxy, figuring out what they’re bright year in South Korea teaching year in Spain, Mazzeo is  Mazzeo is spending his Fulbright made of,” she says. Upon returning English and living with a host family. teaching English. After that, year teaching English in Spain. to the United States, DiTomasso Marku plans to return to New York he’ll attend medical school, will enroll in Harvard’s PhD program to teach and may pursue a master’s and while undecided about in astronomy. in TESOL (Teaching English to which medical specialty to Eleni Katechis ’15, MSEd ’18, is speakers of other languages). pursue, he knows he wants spending her Fulbright year in Taiwan, Marielle Ray ’17, a Hunter Macaulay to devote a large part of his teaching English in a Taipei elemen- Honors Scholar who double-majored career to the training of tary school. With a master’s degree in English and psychology, is spending young doctors and to health and dual certification in general and a year teaching English in Argentina. education of the general special education, she plans to return Upon returning, she plans to enter public. His sister aspires to to New York to teach. a master’s program in social be a doctor as well, and hopes Maria Malizia, MA ’18 is teaching work or a doctoral program in to integrate research into her  Co-valedictorians Michael English at a secondary school in clinical psychology. medical practice. and Marie Mazzeo Italy. She hopes to return to a Harlem

5 ON THE CUTTING EDGE OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

omputer science at Hunter and further expand course offer- College is getting a major ings and access. C upgrade. The program is “The world runs on technol- adding new faculty and retooling ogy—not just in the tech fields but in its curriculum, while also increas- every major industry,” says Hunter ing course access to non-majors, College President Jennifer J. Raab. so more students can develop “We’re committed to doubling the vital tech skills or even consider number of Hunter students who recharting their path to study in graduate into great tech jobs, and this in-demand field. The number we’re so grateful to computer science of students majoring in the field department chair William Sakas for has skyrocketed as well, increasing his innovative thinking and deep tenfold between 2010 and 2018. commitment to achieving that goal.” p Professor Katherine St. John welcomes new students at the 2018 Convo- And now, because Hunter Among other changes, Dr. Sakas cation, encouraging all of them to get involved with computer science. has been investing so heavily in has begun welcoming tech industry computer science, the College has practitioners into classrooms to at their own pace, with some even 650 and we expect it to go up received a $5 million, two-year ensure that the curriculum keeps taking on roles as teaching assistants to 1,000 in the near future.” grant to accelerate that progress. pace with the rapidly changing skills for their peers. Now, the popular All told, six faculty members Mayor de Blasio’s administration demanded in today’s workforce. The course enables students who may have joined the computer science selected Hunter College as one department also recruited Dr. Kath- not have considered themselves department over the last three of just two schools to launch the erine St. John to teach “Introduction “techies” to discover hidden talents years, and the number of majors CUNY 2X Tech initiative, which to Computer Science,” a course and enter the field. has grown to more than 800, put- aims to prepare more students for that is open to all students but also “Katherine came in and became ting the College well on track to careers in the city’s burgeoning serves as the gateway to a computer our star quarterback for the meet the CUNY 2X goal of doubling tech sector. The grant will fund science major. The curriculum was course,” Sakas says. “Enrollment in the number of Hunter graduates paid internships, enhance advising rebooted to allow students to learn her course has grown from 500 to who get jobs in the tech industry.

6 FROM INTERNS TO INSIDERS ast summer, David Margolin ’19 blue chip companies like Bloomberg, was an intern at Motivate, a Inc., where Hunter College graduates Lstart-up recently acquired by Simon Ayzman ’15 and Aarsh Vora ’16 Lyft. “It made me significantly more now both work as software engineers. employable,” Margolin says. “I became As career professionals who have re- a much better communicator and pro- turned to Hunter as adjunct lecturers, grammer.” Best of all, his internship led they offer students valuable insights p Michael Zamansky oversees Hunter’s Daedalus honors to a job offer upon graduation, which is into what it’s like to be employed in cohort, a merit-scholarship program for talented under- the goal of Hunter’s computer science the tech field. graduates with an interest in computer science. Cohort internship program, an initiative sup- “I started tutoring when I was an members take an enriched version of Hunter’s first-year ported by Hunter’s Computer Science undergraduate and really enjoy teach- computer science sequence, studying everything from Advisory Board. ing,” Vora says. “I get a lot of satisfac- programming to data mining, cryptography and artificial tion out of helping students gain a Andrew Rasiej, who chairs the Advi- intelligence. They also participate in social, academic and sory Board, has made it his mission to deeper understanding of computer career-building activities, such as this tour and tech talk ensure that Hunter graduates are fully science.” Adds Ayzman: “I like show- at Google headquarters. prepared to land jobs in New York City’s ing them how what they’re studying rapidly growing tech ecosystem. He and can translate into a rewarding career.” NEXT-GEN PREP ON THE CUTTING EDGE FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE TEACHERS OF COMPUTER SCIENCE ducators and business leaders E have come to recognize that computer science is a new Photo credit: Buck Ennis “basic” skill, one that should be introduced early alongside reading, p Michael Zamansky math and other core academic subjects. That requires well- p Student intern David Margolin trained computer science teachers, and Hunter College is at the other Board members mentor students, forefront of preparing those educators. In fact, Hunter was a advise faculty on curriculum and help major force in persuading the New York State Board of Regents students find internships. In fact, to create a new K-12 Computer Science Teacher Certification. Margolin obtained his internship with That effort was led by Michael Zamansky, coordinator of the help of another Board member— Computer Science Teacher Education at Hunter College. Daniel Fried—who serves as Motivate’s Zamansky came to the College two years ago to develop a vice president of programming. curriculum for K-12 computer science instruction. He recognized Now, even more Hunter students—25 the need for computer science to be a specialized licensure area last summer and another 25 this com- and, with some of his Hunter colleagues, began advocating for ing spring—are benefitting from paid that change in Albany. It’s now official: teachers must be certified internships in the tech sector, thanks to at the state level to teach computer science in New York schools. the CUNY 2X grant. While some Hunter p Bernard Désert ’06, who returned to So how will certification change the way computer science students have struggled to afford tak- Hunter as campus manager of CUNY is taught? ing unpaid internships in the past, the 2X, hails the program’s impact in “It’s a game changer,” says Zamansky. “Just as you want CUNY 2X grant eliminates that barrier. preparing current students for the your child’s biology teacher to have studied the life sciences, Aisha Khoja ’20 interned at SumAll, tech job market. “When it comes you want your child’s computer science teacher to have a cross-platform marketing analytics time to apply for a job, they will be computer science expertise.” company. “Before my internship, I had ready,” Désert says. “Computer sci- Those teachers, in turn, will ensure that the next generation nothing on my resume,” says Khoja. “I ence is a competitive field—these of computer scientists are prepared for college and career know this will open doors for me.” internships ensure Hunter gradu- success—and we can’t wait to welcome some of them as future Open doors can lead to careers with ates stack up against their peers.” Hunter students.

7 H HUNTER GETS TOP MARKSH

A Crowning Achievement for the College...

unter continues to get rave reviews. This remains on the rise. After jumping from 42nd year, the Princeton Review hailed the College to 28th last year in US News and World Report’s Has “the crown jewel of the CUNY system,” annual rankings, Hunter moved up again this fall, and once again named Hunter as one of the “Best now ranking 25th among the magazine’s “Best Colleges” in the country in its Best 384 Colleges guide. Regional Universities, North” and 6th among We’re also on its honor roll of “Colleges That Create public colleges on that list. Additionally, the Wall Futures” and “Colleges That Pay You Back.” Street Journal places Hunter in the top third of Hunter’s national academic standing also 1,000 colleges nationally.

...Where the American Dream Comes True

or 148 years, Hunter has opened doors of Hunter education, stepped in. After her husband’s opportunity for aspiring students. One death, she took time off, and one of her regular F of them is Alicia Baksh-Ousman, who left customers, John Doyle, a vice president at the Trinidad at age 16 to attend college in New York. Real Estate Board of New York whose unvarying After she became pregnant at 17, however, she order each morning was a breakfast sandwich got married, raised her daughter and worked and a bottle of peach Snapple, noticed her at a Midtown deli until at last, in her 20s, she absence. He made inquiries and was touched could enroll at Hunter. Seemingly on her way, by her story. When Baksh-Ousman returned to she thrived in her accounting studies and even work, he offered her a job as a receptionist at took time to help low-income families with his office. Armed with her Hunter training and their taxes. strong work ethic, she earned quick promotions, Then tragedy struck: her husband was all while continuing her studies.  Alicia Baksh-Ousman celebrates her gradu- diagnosed with terminal cancer. On top of her It all came together at the May 2018 Com- ation at the May Commencement with John already exhausting schedule, she became a mencement when Baksh-Ousman, who had Doyle, one of her regular customers when caregiver, and so once again her dream of a by then landed a job at a top accounting firm, she worked at a Midtown deli. He spotted professional career was put on hold. In fact, stepped forward on the stage of Radio City Music her potential, helped her land a job with his after eight years at the deli, it seemed as if she Hall to be surprised by her loyal, caring customer, organization and came to the ceremony to might never get out of the food service business. John Doyle. He was there to congratulate her and bestow a gift with special meaning for them Then fate, with an assist from Baksh-Ousman’s give her a gift of—what else?—peach Snapple. both: a bottle of peach Snapple!

8 FUTURE FACULTY FROM HUNTER TO PRINCETON Great Alums Make Inspiring Teachers AND BACK AGAIN? rowing up, Lindsay t’s amazing what can happen professors who devote themselves Griffiths ’18 planned when one brilliant Hunter Col- to teaching and mentoring new G to pursue a career in I lege graduate returns to campus generations while continuing their medicine—a dream encouraged to teach. When Mildred Dresselhaus own important research. Honoring by her parents, who emigrated HCHS ’47, HC ’51 arrived at Hunter, that legacy at Commencement last from Jamaica. In high school, few careers were open to women spring, Hunter College President however, she realized that her and she expected to become an Jennifer J. Raab began planting the true passion was literature. elementary school teacher. Then idea of return in the minds of several As a Macaulay Honors Scholar she took a nuclear physics class high-achieving members of the Class at Hunter, she excelled as a with Professor Rosalyn Yalow ’41, of 2018. double major in English and Any anthropology department Spanish, earning a 3.9 GPA and would be lucky to recruit Elena an invitation into the McNair Adasheva-Klein ’18, who grew up in a Scholars Program, which sup- small town in Ukraine before coming ports students who want to to New York. With her 3.97 Hunter attend graduate school but are  Lindsay Griffiths ’18 GPA and ambitious plans for graduate from groups traditionally under- “amazing” Hunter education and research in , Adasheva-Klein represented in graduate education. faculty who “helped me get closer Griffiths ultimately won offers to my dream of being a professor.” to six doctoral programs, choos- Perhaps one day, she’ll return to  Dresselhaus receiving the ing Princeton University. campus to teach and inspire the Presidential Medal of Excellence She credits her success to her next generation of Hunter students. from President Obama

who immediately recognized returns to Hunter, she will follow in between immi- Dresselhaus’s gift for science and the footsteps of Benjamin Ortiz ’90, gration and encouraged her to enter the field. who came back to campus as a pro- policies  Prof. Benjamin Ortiz '90 with Dresselhaus, later known as “the fessor of biology after completing governing Hunter students in the lab queen of car- his PhD at Stanford and a post-doc educa- bon science,” won accep- at UC Berkeley. tion and received the tance to Evelyn De Los Reyes ’18—also a training. Presidential Yale, McNulty Scholar—who came to the For a scholar Medal of where U.S. from the Philippines when she seeking break-  Jair Moreira ’18 Excellence she is was five, will be in her element as through ideas in from Barack pursuing a future chemistry professor. She those areas, no home base could top Obama after her PhD graduated from Hunter with a 3.9 Hunter and New York, where even  Rosalyn Yalow ’41 a lifetime in cultural GPA, a major in biochemistry and as an undergrad, Moreira had the op- of groundbreaking research. anthropology. minor in math, and acceptance portunity to work at the City Council.  Emily Lau ’18 Yalow graduated from Hunter McNulty offers from six PhD programs. She with a major in physics, earned her Scholar Emily Lau ’18 can look will be pursuing her doctorate in PhD in nuclear physics, and eventu- forward to a promising career as a pharmacology at Weill Cornell. ally won the Nobel Prize in Medicine biology professor. With a 3.95 GPA, And what better choice could for developing radioimmunoassay, a dual majors in chemistry and an- urban studies and sociology major technique for measuring insulin and thropology, and research experience Jair Moreira ’18 make than pursu- other biological substances. She also in Professor Mandë Holford’s Hunter ing a career in teaching at his alma spent years on the Hunter faculty. lab, Lau earned a five-year National mater? Moreira is currently pursu-  Jacqueline Nassy Brown '95 Throughout its history, Hunter Science Foundation Fellowship for ing his PhD in political science at (second left), who returned to has been very successful in luring doctoral studies in ecology, evolution the University of Illinois at Urbana- teach anthropology after earning back brilliant graduates—not just as and marine biology at the University Champaign, where the focus of his her PhD at Stanford, is a role honorees or guest lecturers, but as of California, Santa Barbara. If she doctoral research is the relationship model for her Hunter students.

9 HUNTER BOOKSHELF ALEXIA ARTHURS How to Love A Jamaican

rising literary star, Alexia Workshop, where she serves as a tensions, violence, loss, and joy, Arthurs ’11 is the author of visiting assistant professor of fiction. earning widespread acclaim for her AH ow to Love a Jamaican, a In How to Love a Jamaican, work. O: The Oprah Magazine hailed collection of stories drawn from Arthurs weaves together a diverse the book’s “singular mix of psycho- Arthurs’ Jamaican heritage that portrait of Jamaicans in their home logical precision and sun-kissed showcases her profound and country and the diaspora—with the lyricism,” noting that her “dazzling versatile gifts as an observer and 11 stories tracing the path of her debut marks the emergence of a chronicler of lived experience. own history, from the Caribbean to knockout new voice.” The Atlantic Born in Jamaica, Arthurs moved to New York City, to Midwestern uni- devoted an entire column to parsing Brooklyn at age 12 and soaked up all versity towns. While this buzzy book the rich nuances of Arthurs’ text, the vibrancy of city life, as well as is Arthurs’ first story collection, celebrating the complexity of her newly form- her work has previously appeared How to Love a ing immigrant identity. Like many in the Virginia Quarterly Review, Jamaican as “a Hunter students, she was the first The Sewanee Review, Vice, and The joy to read.” Put in her family to graduate from an Paris Review, which awarded her simply, Arthurs American college, and she babysat its 2017 Plimpton Prize for Fiction. is a writer people to earn her way through school. After She is known for bringing a raw are talking about graduating from Hunter, Arthurs honesty and poetic maturity to her because she has was accepted into the Iowa Writers’ explorations of adolescence, family something to say.

ISABELLA ROSSELLINI My Chickens and I

ell known as an actor, farm in Bellport, Long Island, allow- model and filmmaker, ing her to conduct hands-on animal W Isabella Rossellini is also husbandry research while working the author of multiple books. While towards her degree. Now, she is longtime fans might find the topic sharing that experience, and what it of her latest volume—a passion for has taught her, in a whimsical book raising chickens—unexpected, it’s suitable for readers of all ages. In no surprise to her fellow scholars My Chickens and I, Rossellini offers at Hunter College, where Rossellini amusing reflections on her relation- is currently ship with her chickens and their pursuing an relationships with one another, MA in animal alongside instructive descrip- behavior and tions of the various breeds. It’s all p Isabella Rossellini discussed her book My Chickens and I with students conservation. delivered in spare, delightful prose, and alumni during Hunter’s 2018 Homecoming. Rossellini with vivid photos taken by Patrice breeds heir- Casanova, who perfectly captures by the unconventional book, re- it into art.” At Hunter, Rossellini has loom chickens the proud bearing and beauty of his marking that Rossellini took “what turned that hobby into a focus for at her organic subjects. Vanity Fair was charmed started as a hobby . . . and turn[ed] her studies as well.

10 BENJAMIN HETT The Death of Democracy rofessor Benjamin Hett, cluding the Ernst Fraenkel Prize in to economic globalization, coupled a leading scholar of 20th- Contemporary History for his 2008 with the consent of other powerful Pcentury Germany, is the kind book Crossing Hitler, and a 2009 politicians who mistakenly thought of history professor who makes the Guggenheim Fellowship. In 2014, they could control him. The Death past feel present—not an inevitable President Raab and the Hunter Col- of Democracy, published in June series of events, but a living story. lege community honored him with 2018, has earned accolades from Famous for his absorbing, informa- the Hunter College Presidential E.J. Dionne, Fareed Zakaria and tion-packed lectures, Professor Award for Excellence in Scholarship Jonathan Chait, among others. Hett teaches a Hunter course on and Creative Activity. Reviewers have praised the book Hitler’s rise to power that is known Hett’s most recent book, The as well, with the The New York as a must-take for history majors Death of Democracy: Hitler’s Rise Times describing it as an “ex- and non-majors alike. to Power and the Downfall of the tremely fine study of the end of A member of the Hunter faculty Weimar Republic, gives readers a constitutional rule in Germany,” since 2003, Professor Hett received glimpse of why his Hunter course and praising the “careful prose and his PhD from Harvard in 2001, and is so popular. In that book, he exam- fine scholarship” that make 1930s taught in its History and Literature ines the perfect storm of circum- Germany feel uncomfortably close. Program for the following two stances that propelled Hitler’s rise, years. He has received many awards arguing that the dictator’s ascent for his scholarship and research, in- came from a nationalist response

YUKIKO KOGA Inheritance of Loss

hen Yukiko Koga was logical Association: the Francis L.K. individuals and nations can heal growing up in Japan, Hsu Book Prize, awarded annually to after catastrophe. W her father questioned the English-language book making A member of the Hunter faculty whether she should even finish high the most significant contribution to since 2010, Professor Koga was school. So today, when she stands in the field of anthropology, and the recognized with the 2018 Presiden- front of a classroom as an assistant Anthony Leeds Prize, awarded tial Award for Excellence, receiving professor of anthropology at Hunter annually to the most outstand- the prize for Scholarly Achievement. with a PhD from Columbia Univer- ing book in urban, national and/or She is a specialist in legal anthro- sity, she delights in the example she transnational anthropology. pology with her research sets for students. In Inheritance of Loss, Professor focused on the generation- Koga’s first book,Inheritance of Koga examines the legacy of state al transmission of losses Loss: China, Japan, and the Political violence in northeast China and inflicted by Japanese Economy of Redemption after Empire how contemporary society con- imperialism in East Asia. (Chicago, 2016) is a testament to tinues to reckon with its echoes. Koga is now hard at work her intellectual achievements. It has Throughout the text, she helps on her second book, tenta- been hailed in academic circles, and readers come to terms with losses tively titled Post-Imperial in 2017 was honored with two major inflicted decades ago by imperial- Reckoning: Law, Redress prizes from the American Anthropo- ism and war, exploring how and Reconciliation.

11 HAPPENINGS

at HUNTER  Former New York State Matilda Cuomo, also mother to current governor , and Mayor David Dinkins enjoyed the Hunter garden party at Roosevelt House.

 At the inaugural Jack Newfield Lecture at Roosevelt House, New York Times reporters and 2018 Pulitzer Prize winners Mike Schmidt (far left) and Maggie Haberman (second from left) were joined by Newfield's family.

 Actress , here with New York State Senator Andrea  Author Gay Talese, shown here with Phyllis Kossoff ’46, was honored Stewart-Cousins, spoke at Roosevelt House about the need to at an event celebrating the eighth anniversary of Hunter College’s raise the minimum wage for tipped workers. Writing Center.

12  Laurence Leeds, Jr., HCES ’41, chairman of Buckingham Capital Management, celebrated with Hunter College Elementary School’s most recent graduates at their commencement ceremony, where Leeds received the 2018 Distinguished Graduate Award.

 Author and business leader Tina Santi Flaherty and award-  Gallerist Fredericka Hunter (left) and artist and Hunter professor Carrie winning fashion designer Zang Toi celebrated at the annual Moyer celebrated the exhibition opening of “Stephen Miller: Orchidaceous” Hunter College garden party at historic Roosevelt House. at 205 Hudson, the gallery in Hunter’s Master of Fine Arts building.

 Richard Dreyfuss, actor and founder of The Dreyfuss Civics Initiative,  Philanthropist Laurie Tisch and Hunter College Art Advisory Board discussed his passion for the democratic process and civics education member Lawrence Benenson attended The Feminist Institute’s screening with Hunter students. of an Eva Hesse documentary at the Hemmerdinger Screening Room.

13 ROOSEVELT HOUSE he U.S. was at war, and Presi- 22, 1943, ceremony on Hunter’s At that historic moment, the Roo- dent Roosevelt was aboard a main campus. Mayor Fiorello H. sevelts’ home became an official, T battleship steaming toward LaGuardia—nearly a foot shorter vital part of the all-girls school an Allied summit in Tehran, when than Eleanor—represented the Eleanor loved—and for whose his New York City home became city. Mrs. Roosevelt read a greeting students she had been cooking part of Hunter College 75 years ago. from her husband, added her own grilled cheese sandwiches for years! First Lady sentiments, and handed the deed to Repurposed as a multifaith stood in for FDR at the November College president George Shuster. student center—the first of its

FROM FAMILY HOME TO NATIONAL TREASURE: A Roosevelt House Timeline

1908: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt 1908-1912: 1921: Stricken with polio at As Franklin Campobello, FDR returns to the move into eastern half of the double town- 1913-1920: Franklin and pursues careers House in 1921 and makes inspiring house at 47-49 East 65th Street. His mother, Eleanor temporarily relocate to in law and recovery, using home’s elevators Sara Delano Roosevelt, who built the dwell- Washington, where FDR serves public service, for mobility. Regaining strength ing as a Christmas gift for the newlyweds, as assistant secretary of the Eleanor cares and optimism, he soon relaunches moves into western half. Within months, Navy and Eleanor volunteers for their grow- himself into public life, despite Sara opens doors dividing the residences for the Red Cross during World ing family. incurable paralysis of his legs. and unites them—to Eleanor’s chagrin. War I. Sara remains at #47.

1940-41: First Lady Eleanor 1942-43: Roosevelt House 1943: Roosevelt House 1944-1961: Eleanor Roosevelt Roosevelt befriends Hunter purchased by Hunter College reopens doors as multifaith speaks at 30 events at Roosevelt students; begins speaking at Social, Community and Reli- home to Hunter College House and Hunter College. In 1960, College events. After death gious Club Association. Eleanor student groups. Over next 50 Roosevelt House featured in movie of FDR’s mother in 1941, First Roosevelt speaks at dedication years, it hosts countless guest “Sunrise at Campobello”. Eleanor Family puts double townhouse ceremony on November 22; speakers, faculty meetings and passes away in 1962. up for sale. visits House a week later. social events. FDR dies in 1945.

THE PUBLIC POLICY INSTITUTE: A Magnet for World Leaders hrough education, research, public discourse, and exhibitions, Roosevelt House fosters learning and dialogue on the major public policy challenges of the day. TIt hosts a wide range of engaging public programs, seminars and conferences featuring distinguished speakers from around the nation and the world. t His Holiness the Dalai Lama met with students and scholars at Roosevelt House before receiving the President’s Medal.

Former Secretary of State (left) is joined by Roosevelt House’s Jonathan F. Fanton Director Harold Holzer during a 2018 visit. u

At the 2010 ribbon t Hunter students cutting ceremony, joined the late U.N then-U.N. Secretary Secretary General General Ban Ki-moon Kofi Annan at Roo- observed, “Surely, 49 East sevelt House for an 65th Street is one of the inspiring discussion most important houses of human rights of the modern era.” u and international justice issues. 14 Celebrating 75 Years as a Hunter Institution kind in the nation—the House opportunity, true to FDR’s charge had fallen into disrepair, and the Now known as the Roosevelt hosted religious, social, cultural and that it be devoted to “the high pur- College temporarily closed its doors. House Public Policy Institute, the academic groups—including Hunter pose of mutual understanding.” When President Jennifer J. Raab fully restored landmark hosts Hillel and the College’s first African- For decades, the House remained took the helm in 2001, she secured Hunter undergraduate programs American club. Immigrant students a cherished location for College $25 million in public and private in human rights and public policy learned English here, while all stu- activities and special events, includ- funding to rehabilitate Roosevelt honoring the legacies of both Eleanor dents learned tolerance. From the ing talks by Eleanor herself, who House. At the November 2010 and Franklin Roosevelt, and presents beginning, the House personified returned often to inspire students. reopening, UN Secretary General faculty and public programs American diversity, democracy and By 1992, however, Roosevelt House Ban Ki-moon cut the ribbon. exploring both policy and history. FROM FAMILY HOME TO NATIONAL TREASURE: A Roosevelt House Timeline

1924 -1927: FDR practices “walk- 1928 - 1930: House 1932: House is home 1932-33: House serves as ing” with crutches in 2nd-floor library serves as home base for base for FDR’s triumphant presidential transition to prepare for triumphant comeback FDR’s successful first presidential campaign. To headquarters; here FDR and at 1924 Democratic Convention. Elea- campaign for governor reassure an anxious nation his “Brain Trust” devise foundations nor hosts prominent women leaders of New York in 1928, and suffering through Depres- of the New Deal, including like Mary McLeod Bethune and future again serves as campaign sion, he gives first speech as Social Security, minimum wage, labor secretary ; central as Gov. Roosevelt president-elect before hearth and child labor laws. launches her lifetime advocacy for runs for and wins landslide in second-floor parlor—in human rights and social justice. re-election in 1930. effect, his first “Fireside Chat.”

2006-2010: Under leadership of President 2010-18: Roster of guest speakers over 1973-1980 : Roosevelt Raab, House is fully the years includes Dalai Lama, Bill and House designated a NYC Hillary Clinton, Jane Fonda, Governor 1992: In need of extensive renovated, reopens Landmark in 1973. Seven Andrew Cuomo, government leaders, UN repairs, Roosevelt House November 15, 2010, years later it is listed on officials, intellectuals, and a Who’s Who shuts its doors to the public. as public policy the National Register of institute honoring of educators, biographers, public policy Historic Places. Roosevelt legacy. experts, and human rights advocates.

“THIS PLACE OF SACRED MEMORIES” his was the Presidential message that Eleanor Roosevelt read at the 1943 dedication ceremony of Roosevelt House: “This place of sacred memories is to become the first college center established for the high purpose of T mutual understanding among Protestant, Jewish and Catholic students. I hope this movement for toleration will grow and prosper until there is a similar establishment in every institution of higher learning in the land.” Eleanor’s own remarks stressed family legacy: “No houses could have a better background for the use they will now serve. Always…there was an effort to look on all human beings with respect, and to have a true understanding of the points of view of others.” Mrs. Roosevelt would return many times to participate in College programs, inspiring young students like ’42 (née Savitzky) to enter public life and fight for social change.

In 1941, Hunter College president George N. Shuster welcomed First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, who spoke on “Education and Democracy” in her first major address at the College. Seated behind them, wearing one of her trademark hats, is student-body president Bella Abzug ’42 (née Savitzky). u

t President and Mrs. Roosevelt in front of Roosevelt House before leaving for a week-long visit to Hyde Park in 1933.

15 A HOME AWAY FROM HOME New Dorms on the Upper East Side

orget hot plates and mini-fridges! Full kitchens outfitted with all the appliances necessary to whip F up meals are what the students in Hunter College’s first-ever Upper East Side dorm come home to. The seven- story, 158-bed dorm is in a vibrant, safe neighborhood and features apartment-style living close to campus. The building, on East 79th Street near First Avenue, is set up so that students can create a community with their roommates rather than be restricted to a tradi- tional dorm room. The dorm represents a real coup for Hunter College, which negotiated a 30-year lease on the building. And for students wanting to live minutes from campus, it’s the perfect place to call home. “Having the chance to live so close to campus gives the students a greater opportunity to participate in campus activities and to have a residential college experience,” says Eija Ayravainen, Hunter College’s vice president of student affairs. “The students living in this setting are creating deep bonds and forming lifelong friendships.”

THE NEW SCHOOLS CHANCELLOR CALLS An Education Conversation with City Leaders

oon after he was appointed to Hunter’s Dance Advisory Board effort unites the entire Hunter be the New York City schools and advises the NYCDOE on arts community to transform PS/MS 7 p Chancelllor Carranza (right) with Schancellor, Richard A. education, brought her perspec- into a model elementary and mid- Judy Dimon, co-president of the James Carranza accepted Hunter College’s tive as a dance educator. The dle school. Hunter undergraduates and Judith K. Dimon Foundation. invitation to a “working dinner” conversation was lively, covering mentor youngsters at the school. with three dozen of the city’s busi- topics ranging from professional Students from the Silberman ness, philanthropic, and education development for teachers to School of Social Work complete leaders. It was only natural that forging strong partnerships with field placements there, providing Hunter College, a major partner business and community leaders. vital services to children strug- with the City’s Department of “The chancellor’s priorities gling with bullying, family stress, Education (NYCDOE) and one that’s align well with the work we're or behavioral issues. And Hunter’s responsible for training 10 percent doing here at Hunter,” said School of Education delivers invalu- p Chancellor Carranza was joined of its teachers, hosted the event. Michael Middleton, the Klara and able instructional coaching to PS/ by Beth Lief, executive director Among the attendees were Larry Silverstein Dean of Hunter’s MS 7 teachers. of the Carroll and Milton Petrie Dana Zucker, executive director of School of Education, who at- “Since its inception, Hunter’s Foundation, and Stanley Litow, the Gray Foundation, and Jackie tended the dinner. mission has been to support who served as deputy chancellor and Mike Bezos, co-founders as Among the programs discussed the city’s public school system,” at the New York City Department of well as president and vice presi- was Hunter’s partnership with PS/ Middleton said. “Our reinvigorated Education and for many years was dent of the Bezos Family Founda- MS 7, a cornerstone of the College’s partnership with the new chancel- president of the IBM Foundation. tion. Jody Arnhold, who chairs All In East Harlem initiative. That lor will build on that legacy.”

16 ARTHUR ELGORT ’64 Hunter’s Gift to Fashion

ashion photographer Arthur Elgort’s “breezy, wonderfully inventive style” changed people’s F understanding of what fashion is, said President Raab in presenting the Class of ’64 alumnus with an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters. More impor- tant, she continued, Elgort “changed our concept of what the modern woman is—placing her firmly and boldly in the real world, where we can see her character p President Raab and the Elgorts: (from left) son Ansel, a movie actor; wife Grethe, an and feel her energy.” opera impresario; Arthur; son Warren, a film producer-director; and daughter Sophie, It was praise warmly endorsed by the audience an award-winning photographer of fashion-world icons who attended the ceremony. Supermodel Christy Turlington thanked Elgort for nurturing her career and making every photo shoot “a joyful learning experience.” And Vogue editor Grace Coddington told him, “You brought freshness and life to fashion photography.” Where did Elgort gain the ability to make such a daz- zling impact? Where else but Hunter! He was one of the dozen or so male students on the Manhattan campus in 1964. Originally a painting major, he changed direction after becoming the campus’s most sought-after pho- tographer. In the process, he learned to recognize and respect the spirit of the bright, ambitious young women around him, an experience that would eventually shape his style—and that of modern fashion photography. Surrounded by his talented family (top photo), Elgort gratefully acknowledged his debt to Hunter. It was, he said, the place “where I learned what I was going to become.” It’s a debt he’s repaid in full—as President Raab told him: “You brought credit to your alma mater, demonstrating through your lifetime of achievements p Student days: Arthur started as a painting major (note the easel in the background), that Hunter is the public college that transforms lives.” found it too lonely and took up the camera. (Photo Courtesy of Arthur Elgort)

p Sonia Kashuk (left), who went from assistant makeup artist to leading p Arthur with Grace Coddington, an editor of Vogue, where he cosmetics executive after Elgort “changed the trajectory” of her life, with had more than two dozen cover photos. Christy Turlington, whose career as a supermodel was launched in Elgort’s studio.

17 AGE-FRIENDLY UNIVERSITY diverse identities to participate in medical studies, ensuring that MEET RUTH FINKELSTEIN lessons learned through that vital Hunter’s Champion for Older New Yorkers research benefit all. Another persistent challenge faced by older Americans is age r. Ruth Finkelstein, ScD, cess to cultural programming and a discrimination, and Dr. Finkelstein wants to help New York deepened commitment to applied recognizes that we need to shine a D City’s older adults live research. That work starts close to spotlight on those discriminatory better. And since becoming the home by ensuring that Hunter itself practices in order to end them. With Rose Dobrof Executive Director of embodies the values and practices generous funding from the Alfred P. the Brookdale Center for Healthy advocated by Brookdale. In fact, Sloan Foundation, Dr. Finkelstein Aging at Hunter College in January one of the first things Dr. Finkel- created a new role for an inaugural 2018, she’s in a perfect position to stein did after joining Hunter was to p Ruth Finkelstein Senior Fellow at Brookdale, identify, support and implement work with Hunter College President a reasonable rent and the seniors re- recruiting award- practices that improve the lives of Jennifer J. Raab to make it the first ducing their own housing expenses. winning investi- older New Yorkers. public college in the United States The program, called SOAR: Student- gative journalist “Rather than looking at aging as to join the Global Network of Age- Older Adult Roommates, would be a Peter Gosselin a state of decline, I see it as a part Friendly Universities. win-win for the budding social work- to fill that role. of life that is as full of opportuni- “Ruth has completely reimagined ers (who’d gain valuable exposure At Brookdale, ties as it is of challenges,” says Dr. Brookdale’s potential to foster healthy to a population they’ll likely work he’ll bring much- Finkelstein, who is also a professor aging,” says President Raab. “I’m so with in their careers) and the seniors needed attention of urban public health at Hunter inspired by the way she has brought (who’d enjoy having a young person to ageism and and has devoted the past decade to together experts from the entire around the house again!) other challenges p Peter Gosselin transforming the public’s under- Hunter community—in health, nurs- In addition to that collaboration, faced by elderly New Yorkers, while standing of aging. ing and social work, as well as the arts Dr. Finkelstein is also partnering also highlighting the research-based For nearly 40 years, the Brook- and sciences—to ensure that older with two faculty members from solutions Brookdale has identified to dale Center has been a leader in New Yorkers enjoy rich, vibrant lives.” Hunter’s School of Nursing—Dr. solve them. promoting the health and well- One program being designed by Elizabeth Cohn, the Rudin Profes- “As people age, their needs being of older Americans. With the Dr. Finkelstein and her colleagues sor of Nursing, and Dr. Elizabeth change,” Dr. Finkelstein says. “I feel country’s rapidly aging population, at the Silberman School of Social Capezuti, the Hearst Foundation so fortunate to be able to take advan- that work is more critical than ever, Work would connect students from Chair in Gerontology—to improve tage of the incredible resources and and Dr. Finkelstein is determined to that school with older adults who medical research involving elderly expertise available at Hunter and meet the challenge with improved live near campus and have a spare participants. Together, they aim to ensure that we’re doing all we can to practitioner training, more active bedroom. As “roommates,” both identify strategies to better recruit improve the health and well-being of policy engagement, expanded ac- would benefit, with students paying older adults of color and from other older people in our community.”

very year, billions of dollars are professionals recognize and prevent finan- across the securities and banking Brookdale stolen through the financial exploi- cial exploitation of their elderly clients. industries. By sharing information in Leads the Etation of vulnerable individuals, Now, a new $500,000, two-year this way, the platform will improve many of them elderly. Since 1993, the grant from the U.S. Department of prosecution of financial exploitation Charge Against Jacob Reingold Elder Abuse Prevention Justice will enable Brookdale to do cases while also preventing many Project—part of Brookdale’s Sadin even more. The grant will fund de- instances of fraud from occurring Elder Institute for Law and Public Policy—has velopment of an online platform that in the first place. Hunter College played a leading role in curbing that will empower financial professionals researchers will also play a critical Financial abuse. Through that project, Brookdale to spot early indicators of financial role in evaluating the new platform, provides training to help lawyers, exploitation and report those con- so it can be optimized and rolled out Abuse advocates, social workers and medical cerns to a consortium of colleagues widely to better protect seniors.

18 For Senior Auditors, “ANNIE,” YOU’VE AGED: Class Is In Session Remaking a Classic Film With a Gray-haired Cast level of Hunter North, where they can enjoy coffee and tea, cookies and conversation. “It’s a quiet oasis where seniors come to just read the paper, relax and have a cup of coffee,” says Peter Remch, president of Hunter’s Senior Citizen Student Association (SCSA) and a senior auditor for six years. “There comes a point in a senior auditor’s day when they just need a spot to go to, and this is that spot.” The SCSA runs the cozy lounge, which provides complimentary p Ruth Finkelstein welcomed the stars and directors of “My Annie newspapers and magazines along Hall” to a film screening at Brookdale Center. with access to a host of valuable arry Miller started services for seniors, including assis- p Peter Remch taking acting classes tance creating a CUNYfirst account at Hunter College at an ne way that Hunter embrac- and registering for Hunter courses. H age when most actors are long es the practices advocated The SCSA also hosts monthly free retired: 75! But he didn’t get his by the Brookdale Center is luncheons with speakers as well O “big break” until 94, when he by creating plenty of opportunities as occasional free trips to cultural was cast in a reboot of Woody for older adults to stay involved institutions like Carnegie Hall. The Allen’s “Annie Hall” as Alvy with cultural and educational cost of a SCSA membership is $10 Singer—the leading role Allen pursuits. Each semester, more than per semester. More than 200 people held in the 1977 classic. 800 individuals age 60 and over have joined the SCSA, says Remch, Miller, who attends dancing audit undergraduate classes at who has fulfilled his lifelong dream and acting classes at Hunter Hunter College—and pay no tuition, of studying mathematics as a senior as a senior auditor and who p Harry Miller recreates just a low $80 registration and auditor. He says his fellow lounge- often hangs out in the Senior the famous lobster scene services fee. With a wide range of goers audit classes in the arts as Lounge, found that his Hunter from “Annie Hall” (Photo course offerings to choose from, well as in religion, sociology and training proved useful when he Courtesy of Matt Starr & senior auditors will find something archeology. Elli Sachs.) was tapped to audition for “My that piques their interest, be it “They audit classes here at Annie Hall” at the Lenox Hill Starr and Elli Sachs, and Ruth literature, drama, dance or math- Hunter because it makes their lives Neighborhood House, where he Finkelstein, director for the Brook- ematics. And thanks to the inter- richer,” Remch says. “And coming is a regular. Miller not only tap- dale Center for Healthy Aging. generational classroom experience to class at Hunter promotes their danced for the film but sang In addition to acting, Miller has that results when a senior citizen social and intellectual interests.” Fred Astaire’s “I Wanna Be a audited classes in directing and audits a class, the undergraduates To be eligible to be a senior audi- Dancin’ Man.” Hunter’s Theatre playwriting. Recently, though, enrolled in that particular course tor, an individual must be a New Department recently hosted a he stopped taking contemporary benefit, too. York State resident 60 years of screening of the film, followed dance classes. “I can’t do all that Whenever these lifelong learners age or older. If you’re interested in by a lively panel discussion rolling around on the floor that feel like taking an on-campus lunch learning more, email admissions@ with Miller and his co-star, modern dancers do,” he says. “I’ve or coffee break, they can head to hunter.cuny.edu. Shula Chernick, directors Matt switched to all ballet.” the Senior Lounge on the lower

19 2018 HUNTER HALL OF FAME he eight new inductees into the Hunter Hall of Fame represent the best of Hunter College and embody its motto, T“Mihi cura futuri: The care of the future is mine.”

José Calderón ’97, president t Hispanic Federation President José of the Hispanic Federation, is a leading Calderón delivered 220,000 pounds advocate for Hispanic grassroots of water, food and other essentials organizations and pro-Latino legislation to San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin in in New York City and nationwide. He the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. graduated summa cum laude from Hunter and then earned an MA from St. John’s University with a concentration in Latin American studies and Spanish literature. In addition to elevating the Federation into a powerful voice for social justice, he is known nationally as an advocate for high-quality public schools, accessible health care, increased voter engagement

and environmental protection. After Miranda Photo credit: Frankie Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico last fall, Calderón traveled to the island to supply emergency provisions and support rebuilding efforts. Many students from his alma mater joined him in that work, volunteering last Hunter student volunteers summer as part of the New York helped rebuild shattered Stands with Puerto Rico Recovery homes in Puerto Rico. (Photo and Rebuilding Initiative. Courtesy of Aliyah Meyer) u

Dr. Patricia E. Bath ’64 is an ophthalmologist and inventor who was the first African- American woman to receive a medical patent. While at Hunter, Bath co-founded an undergraduate science newsletter and was national VP of the sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha. After graduating, she earned a medical degree with honors from Howard University, later becoming the first African-American student to complete an ophthalmology residency at NYU and the first woman ophthalmologist to join the faculty of the UCLA School of Medicine’s Jules Stein Eye Institute. A decade after completing her own residency, Bath became the first American woman to chair an ophthalmology residency program at UCLA’s Martin Luther King/Charles Drew Medical Education Program. She also established UCLA’s Ophthalmic Assistant Training Program, which expanded blindness-prevention care in the local community. She later took that mission national, founding the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness. A role model for children, Bath was recently celebrated in a picture book: The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes.

20 Robert T. Barry ’57, MA ’63 is a founder of conceptual art in the United States whose work pushes beyond the physical limits of objects to explore their hidden or unperceived aspects, including their surrounding environments. At Hunter, Barry studied under William Baziotes and Robert Moth- erwell. He later became a Hunter faculty member himself, teaching at the College for 15 years. Barry’s work has been exhibited in galleries and museums throughout the U.S. and around the globe and is included in the permanent collec- p Robert Barry in the faculty tions of MoMA, the Guggenheim, cafeteria, Hunter College, ca. late 1970s. (Photo the Whitney, the Boston Museum Courtesy of Robert Barry) of Fine Arts and the Smithsonian’s  “Robert Barry: All the things I know... 1962 to the present” Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture was exhibited at Hunter's 205 Hudson Street Gallery Garden, among others. As a guest in 2015. artist, he has taught at the California Institute of Art, Ecole des Beaux Arts and other distinguished institutions.

Joanna F. Hofmann ’69, MSN Etta May Ladson ’51, MA ’61 Vivian Iris Glasberg Milefsky Rhonda O’Reilly-Bovell ’96 Geraldine A. Redden Swanson ’81, ANP ’2000 taught nursing has a distinguished career in ’59, MSEd ’61 has won many joined the New York City ’71 was a city educator at Hunter for 25 years and education. She founded and awards for her volunteer Police Department after for more than 25 years. has a distinguished record of directs the African Christian work, including service on graduating from Hunter Ordained a deacon in the international nursing service. Teachers Association, which the Regional Women’s League and rose steadily through Episcopal Diocese of New She co-founded Promoting provides financial aid to Board. She began her career the ranks. She was named York in 1997, she was elected Health in Haiti, a nursing-ed- gifted children in Queens, at P.S. 23 in the South Bronx, captain in 2014 and deputy to the Board of Directors of ucation organization formed and has been honored for her where she spent 11 years as a inspector in 2017. She is the Association for Episcopal after Haiti’s devastating 2010 achievements as a teacher teacher and mentor. currently the commanding Deacons for two terms and earthquake. and education advocate. officer of the 7th Precinct. now serves on the Board of the Fund for the Diaconate.

21 Celebrating Hunter’s

ore than 200 alumni returned to campus in April for the 2018 Class Reunion. They M visited with former classmates, made new friends, and joined Hunter’s talented vocal students for a celebration of SING! Italian actress and Hunter grad student Isabella Rossellini MA ’19, best-selling author Colum McCann, and Tony Award-winning director and producer Gregory Mosher—the Baker Chair of Hunter’s Department of Theatre—were on hand as well. All enjoyed food, drinks and festivities.

p Hunter College’s vocal students wowed listeners before lunch with an uplifting celebra- tion of SING! and the talent of the 65th reunion class was in full force as alumni joined in.

uAlumni Joan Masket ’53 Reunion 2018 was awarded a silver baton when she was dubbed “Best Sing Leader” at Hunter. When p 103-year-old Florence Raider Zimmerman ’37, one she returned of the first female civil court judges in American to campus, she history, got a special shout-out for being the most brought that senior alumna present. She shared the spotlight baton along and with another ’37 graduate, Hall of Famer Bea Klier, a celebrated with 100-year-old meteorologist who majored in geology current Hunter and then did climate research for NASA. College vocal students.

p Michael Kapack ’63 proudly donned a “Bronx boy” T- shirt. When men were first admitted to Hunter in the p Eva Grove ’58 celebrated her 60th Hunter reunion 1950s, they were based on with her daughter, Hunter Foundation Board member the Bronx campus. It wasn’t p Alan Chartock ’63, CEO of WAMC/Northeast Robie Spector. Grove, who came to the U.S. as an im- until 1964 that they matricu- Public Radio, shared the podium with Harold migrant, gave a generous gift to support immigrant lated into the newly coed Holzer, the historian who serves as the Jona- students at Hunter, playing a vital role in helping Manhattan campus. than F. Fanton Director of Roosevelt House. them graduate.

22 For Class Notes, visit: http://hunter.cuny.edu/classnotes years 150 1870 - 2020

2020 marks the sesquicentennial of Hunter College and we are gearing up to celebrate 150 years of transformative education. Did you have a favorite professor? Photos of your time on campus? We want to hear from you! Share how Hunter changed your life. Please email us at [email protected]

In Memoriam

Theodosea Silas ’59 Jacqueline G. Wilson ’51 (1937-2017) (1929-1918)

heodosea “Theo” Hejda Silas, acqueline G. Wilson ’51, who died on who died on September 4, 2017, September 15, 2018, was a longtime T was born in New York City and JHunter leader, a member of Hunter’s graduated cum laude with a BA in fine Hall of Fame, and a president of the arts from Hunter College in 1959. She Alumni Association. worked in New York as a teacher, Wilson, who majored in history at Hunter, writer and magazine editor. enjoyed a successful career in the health “Theo” Silas and her family moved to Bartlesville, Oklahoma in professions. She retired from the U.S. 1977, where she was a major contributor to her community’s artistic Department of Health and Human Services, where she served as deputy and cultural life. She was a founder and the first president of the regional administrator of the Health Care Financing Administration Bartlesville Museum and Sculpture Garden, now the Price Tower (HCFA). She received many awards during her years with the HCFA, Arts Center, and was a board member of the Oklahoma Nature including the Commissioner’s Citation—the top award given by the Social Conservancy. In 1991, she and her husband, C.J. “Pete” Silas, a retired Security Administration—and the Health and Human Services Secretary’s chairman and chief executive officer of Phillips Petroleum Company, Superior Service Award. established the Silas Foundation to support the arts, education and Wilson was an original member of the selection committee for other causes. Silas was honored with the Hunter College Alumni the Hunter College Hall of Fame. She served as chair of the Friends Association’s Award for Outstanding Community Service and was of the Hunter College Library and was an officer of the Wistarians inducted into the Hunter College Hall of Fame. Alumni Chapter.

For Class Notes, visit: http://hunter.cuny.edu/classnotes 23 Hunter College of The City University of New York 695 Park Avenue • New York, NY 10065

MEET FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBER MARSHALL SONENSHINE

hortly after his youngest son, working at several other firms before Hunter continues to provide students Jacob Sonenshine ’18, trans- founding Sonenshine Partners in 2000. with faculty and programs on a par S ferred to Hunter College, Marshall In addition to his full-time role as an with those at top private universities. Sonenshine was invited to join the investment banker, Sonenshine was Sonenshine, a champion of the arts Board of the Hunter College Founda- for many years a professor of finance who has a long history of supporting tion. He embraced the opportunity and economics at . cultural institutions in New York City, right away, because he has always He currently teaches at Harvard Law served on the boards of Jazz at Lincoln been committed to public education. School and is a past chairman of the Center and the International Center “Public education is one of the most Harvard Law School Fund. of Photography. He’s currently on the important ingredients in a successful At Hunter, Sonenshine chairs the Hunter College Theatre Advisory Board, civilization,” says Sonenshine, chair- Foundation’s Investment Committee. which is a natural fit: he is a longtime man of Sonenshine Partners, a global It’s a role he takes very seriously. “It’s theatre aficionado and his middle investment banking firm. “Besides been impressive to see what’s going son is a producer and director for health and safety, education is the on at Hunter with the endowment theatre and film. Sonenshine recently most important thing a civilization fund, which is an investment in our took in a performance of the Hunter can offer. Without it, we are in trouble. sustainability and all about our future,” Theater Project’s acclaimed adapta- With it, we are vibrant and wonderful.” he says. “Our endowment fund has tion of “Uncle Vanya,” which won rave Although his father graduated from become critically important to enrich- reviews from critics in the New York Brooklyn College and his youngest son ing academic offerings and expanding Times, Washington Post, and NPR. He is graduated from Hunter, Sonenshine student programs at Hunter.” especially pleased that many residents himself had a private school upbring- As for what he is most passionate from the neighborhood around Hunter ing. After earning a bachelor’s degree about improving at Hunter, Sonen- turned out to see the play. from Brown University and then shine says, “I am all about one word: “At Hunter, we are using theatre finishing Harvard Law School, where he quality. I don’t believe there should to engage our community on our served as an editor of the Harvard Law be any distinction in quality between campus,” Sonenshine said. “And that Review, Sonenshine began his bank- what is available at a private versus a is what great universities like Hunter ing career at Salomon Brothers, later public school.” He aims to ensure that should do.”