Brief (1-11-2006) Read Brief on the Web At

Brief (1-11-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_1112006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 1; Jan. 11, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --President Bruininks attends U.S. international education summit Jan. 5-6. --VP for access, equity, and multicultural affairs search extended.

2. Features --UPlan Wellness launches Health Connections. --People: New U marketing director, new UMC development director, and more.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

PRESIDENT BRUININKS ATTENDED the U.S. University Presidents Summit on International Education Jan. 5-6, where President Bush announced he will request $114 million from Congress to teach languages critical for national security to students from kindergarten through college. Other speakers and guests at the summit of 120 college presidents included Laura Bush, Secretary of State Rice, Secretary of Education Spellings, and Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy Hughes. Session topics ranged from the regulatory environment and public-private partnerships to preparing globally competitive U.S. students, identifying and attracting foreign talent, and a vision and strategies for U.S. international education. For more information, see http://www.exchanges.state.gov/universitysummit and the Chronicle of Higher Education, Jan. 13 issue.

THE SEARCH FOR THE U'S NEW VP FOR ACCESS, EQUITY, AND MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS has been extended. Because of the importance of the position and based on feedback from the U community, Senior VP Jones announced that the pool of candidates will be expanded, with a goal of filling the position by the end of the academic year. "We are committed to hiring the person who will be the best fit for the University at this time," Jones said. The search committee previously recommended four finalists, three of whom visited the U in November. For more information, see http://academic.umn.edu/system/vpsearch .

2. Features

UPLAN WELLNESS LAUNCHES HEALTH CONNECTIONS. Beginning this week, U employees can get paid to take a 20-minute confidential, online health assessment that generates a personal picture of their health. You'll also get connections to resources to help you make changes that give the best chance of reducing any identified health risks. You have until Apr. 30 to qualify for the $65 reward, and you can earn another $65 if you complete a follow-up health improvement program. Dependents can take the assessment, too, but aren't eligible for the reward. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_of_Human_Resources/ Introducing_Health_Connections.html .

PEOPLE: New U marketing director is Ann Aronson, new UMC development director is Corby Kemmer, UMC music and theater director George French is a Good Neighbor of the North for January 2006, and more. To read these and other announcements, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

FEATURE STORIES are published daily in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews and twice a week on the U home page at http://www.umn.edu . Features this week include "Kick wax time: UMore Park offers cross-country ski trail" and "Let there be light: U and neighborhood effort results in new pedestrian lighting by Twin Cities campus."

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming the U:

THE DIVERSITY TASK FORCE WILL HOLD A FINAL OPEN FORUM for all campuses during the public comment period, Jan. 18, 10:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. All campuses will be able to participate by interactive TV at the following locations: 106 Sahlstrom Conference Center, UMC; 173 Kirby Plaza, UMD; 20 Mondale Hall, UMTC; 7 HFA, UMM; 109 AT, UMR. All interested students, staff, and faculty members are invited to attend and give input. A copy of the diversity task force's draft recommendations is on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_recommendations.html .

THE TASK FORCE ON UNDERGRADUATE REFORM: STUDENT SUPPORT will hold open forums at UMTC: Jan. 18, 3-5 p.m., Minnesota Commons, St. Paul Student Center; and Jan. 25 3-5 p.m., 140 Nolte Center. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/events.php .

PROVIDE COMMENTS THROUGH JAN. 27 on preliminary recommendations from 11 academic strategic positioning task forces. Task forces will make final recommendations Feb. 3 to team leaders Provost Sullivan and Senior VP Jones. Recommendations will then be forwarded to the U's executive strategic positioning team for review and determination of next steps. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning .

University-wide:

THE PRESIDENT'S EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAM builds institutional talent by developing leadership skills of competent, high potential U staff members. Academic administrative and professional (P&A), civil service, and bargaining unit staff members from all campuses are eligible. Up to 25 participants will be accepted for the 2006-07 academic year. Nominations deadline: Jan. 31; candidate applications will be due Mar. 10. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/pel .

POLICY CHANGES FOR BUSINESS TRAVEL, effective Jan. 1, 2006, include frequent-flyer miles accrual and use, http://fpd.finop.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/policy/FrequentFlyer_pol.cfm , and reimbursement for meals during travel, http://fpd.finop.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/policy/Travel.cfm#450 .

U CARDS CANNOT BE USED AS COLLATERAL. Because of the financial value and services associated with U Cards, departments should not retain U Cards as collateral for services. Also, since U Cards never expire, departments should not collect them upon an employee's termination nor should departing employees turn them in. Students, staff, and faculty members are reminded not to lend or give a U Card to anyone. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ucard .

THE ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE BRIEFING AND RECEPTION is free and open to the entire U community. It begins with a light dinner, followed by a presentation on the U's 2006 legislative requests. Then break-out training sessions will be offered on three topics: building relationships with legislators, media advocacy, and how to tell your story. Learn how you can be an effective advocate for the U at the Capitol and in your community. Jan. 25, 5:30-8 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center. Register to attend and sign up for a training session at http://ga4.org/u_of_m_leg_net/events/legbriefing06/details.tcl .

THE PHARMACEUTICAL CARE CLINIC, College of Pharmacy, provides a comprehensive assessment of a person's medication-related needs, conducted by an advanced-standing pharmacy student in the presence of an experienced faculty member. U employees, family members, and friends are welcome to schedule appointments. Participation will prepare pharmacy students for new professional responsibility. No charge, but nominal contributions are appreciated. For more information or an appointment, call 612-625-7929.

MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM new and upcoming events include The Beauty of Bonsai exhibit (through Jan. 28) and Gardening School winter classes (beginning Jan. 14). For more information, see http://www.arboretum.umn.edu or call 952-443-1400.

Crookston:

SENIOR VICE CHANCELLOR AND DEAN Joe Massey announced his retirement Jan. 4. A UMTC alum ('74, '77), Massey returned to join the faculty in forest products in 1995 and was appointed UMC vice chancellor for academic affairs in 2004. He served as UMC chief executive officer for 10 months in 2004-05. A search for a new vice chancellor will begin in February, with the goal of hiring by July 1. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=214 .

Duluth:

THE FACILITIES MANAGEMENT TEAM WILL RECEIVE A 2005 GOVERNOR'S MnGREAT AWARD for environmental leadership for the Glensheen Low Impact Development and Shoreline Protection Project. The project at the historic estate was completed in collaboration with the South St. Louis Soil and Water Conservation District, Wisconsin Sea Grant, and the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water. UMD team members are Erik Larson, Wade Lawrence, Peggy Dahlberg, Sheryl Lind, and Dan McClelland. The award ceremony will be Feb. 15 at the annual conference of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/January/09.html .

Morris:

THE CONVOCATION SERIES will present "Tough Guise: Violence, Media, and the Crisis in Masculinity," by former football star Jackson Katz. Jan. 18, 7:30 p.m., Edson Auditorium. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=106 .

A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION will broadcast live from UMM on National Public Radio, Feb. 11, 4:45 p.m., P.E. Center. General admission is $45; $15 for UMM students. For tickets, call 320-589-6356 or go to Oyate Hall Jan. 18-20 or until tickets are sold out. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=142 .

CHANCELLOR NOMINATIONS AND APPLICATIONS are now being accepted. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/chansearch .

Rochester:

"MINNESOTA ENERGY: THE FUTURE IS RENEWABLE" will be presented by Regents Professor Lanny Schmidt, chemical engineering and materials science, and a collaborative member of the Initiative for Renewable Energy and the Environment. Schmidt was named in the 2004 Scientific American 50, an annual list that recognizes leadership in science and technology, for inventing the first reactor capable of producing hydrogen from a renewable fuel. Feb. 1, 7 p.m., MH 223 Memorial Lecture Hall, UMR. For more information, see http://www.r.umn.edu .

Twin Cities:

STUDENT AFFAIRS BOOK CLUB will discuss Goal Achievement Through Treasure Mapping: A Guide to Personal and Professional Fulfillment, by Barbara Laporte, an adviser in the Public Health Career Center. She will present five steps in setting, visualizing, and achieving personal goals. Today, noon, U Bookstore, Coffman Union. For more information, see http://www.osa.umn.edu/osaprograms/osabookclub.html .

ZIPCAR AND VAN-GO! are two new programs launched by Parking and Transportation Services this month. Zipcar provides easy car access to faculty, staff, and students 21 or over. Van-Go! is a van pool program offered with the Metropolitan Council that matches U members who live in the same geographic area and commute along a similar path. The program helps to create groups of five passengers who can ride together at least three days a week. Zipcar will kick off Jan. 17, 8 a.m.- noon, Coffman Union, and 1-4 p.m., St. Paul Student Center; information sessions about Van-Go! will be held Jan. 25-31. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/pts/hottopics.htm .

MARTIN LUTHER KING III will speak on "My Father's Dream, My Mission," Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m., Coffman Union. King is a social activist and president of the King Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Advance tickets will go on sale Jan. 18. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2667&from=umnnews .

NOMINATIONS FOR THE 2006 PRESIDENT'S STUDENT LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE AWARDS are now being accepted. Faculty, staff, and students may nominate undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. As part of the awards process, candidates may be considered for UMAA, Zander, and McEvoy awards. Deadline: Feb. 10. For more information, see http://www.sao.umn.edu/leadership/awards .

A KICKOFF FOR THE 5TH ANNUAL MAROON & GOLD AWARDS COMPETITION for communications excellence will be hosted by the U Communicators Forum. Hear from the 2005 judges, allay your fears, and be inspired to think about your creative accomplishments as award-winning feats. Light refreshments. Jan. 19, 1:30-3 p.m., 2-206 Carlson School of Management. Register no later than Jan. 17 to [email protected] .

START THE NEW YEAR BY ASSESSING YOUR CAREER. The Employee Career Enrichment Program can help. Spring workshops are now posted at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/careerdev/workshops . One-to-one career consulting is also available; to make an appointment, call 612-626-1004.

MORE EVENTS include the Physics Circus (Jan. 12); "Mapping Home and Work," a new GIS tool (Jan. 13); A Prairie Home Companion at Ted Mann Concert Hall (Jan. 14 and 21); "Portable Computing" on Tech Talk (Jan. 15); and "Making Freedom's Mark: The Voting Rights Act of 1965" at the Humphrey Center (open Jan. 16, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Notice: Brief is the official University of Minnesota staff and faculty weekly news digest, featuring human resource, employee benefit, administrative, legislative, budgetary, event, and other pertinent information. You may choose to unsubscribe from Brief, but please be aware that if you do, you will not receive this up-to-date information, compiled and delivered directly to you, in any other University communications. To unsubscribe, visit http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Subscribe.html .

Brief (1-18-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_1182006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 2; Jan. 18, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Story --Governor proposes $171.5 million for the U in capital bonding.

2. Features --CAPA report: eight university staff groups meet in Chicago. --People: Alum and former staff member appointed to Minnesota Supreme Court, and more.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Story

GOVERNOR PAWLENTY PROPOSED $171.5 MILLION FOR THE U ($127.6 million the state's share and $43.9 million the U's share) in capital bonding Jan. 17 as part of his budget recommendations to the legislature. The proposed budget includes full funding for Carlson School of Management expansion, a science teaching and student services center at UMTC, and the UMD Labovitz School of Business and Economics building (see Duluth, below). It also includes planning funds for a medical biosciences building and half the U's request for Higher Education Asset Preservation and Replacement (HEAPR). President Bruininks said, "His bonding bill is a good start, and we look forward to working with the legislature to build on it." For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2686&from=umnnews .

2. Features

CAPA REPORT: At their annual meeting in Chicago, representatives of academic professionals at eight universities, including four from the U of M, reported progress on vacation carry-over, tuition benefits, and domestic-partner benefits. They also moved ahead to assess performance and compensation/advancement reviews and to ensure the group's future. Read the report in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Council_of_Academic_Professionals_and_Administrators/ Academic_professionals_get_proactive.html .

PEOPLE: Lorie Gildea, UMM alum and former staff member in the U attorney's office, has been appointed to the Minnesota Supreme Court; UConnects program director Tex Ostvig was named on the "25 on the Rise" list by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Minnesota; UCCS director Harriett Copher Haynes has been inducted into the Diamond Honoree Program of the Education Leadership Foundation; and more. Read about Gildea at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/UMM_alum_Gildea_named_associate_justice.html and about more news makers at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Feature stories are published daily in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews and twice a week on the U of M home page at http://www.umn.edu . Features this week include "Carlson School survey highlights economic impact of alumni" and "A few bad men (and women, too)" on the impact of corporate crime.

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming the U:

DIVERSITY TASK FORCE FINAL OPEN FORUM IS TODAY: All interested students, staff, and faculty members are invited to attend and give input. Jan. 18, 10:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. All campuses will be able to participate by interactive TV at the following locations: 106 Sahlstrom Conference Center, UMC; 173 Kirby Plaza, UMD; 20 Mondale Hall, UMTC; 7 HFA, UMM; 109 AT, UMR. A copy of the diversity task force's draft recommendations is on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_recommendations.html .

UNDERGRADUATE REFORM: STUDENT SUPPORT TASK FORCE OPEN FORUMS AT UMTC are today, Jan. 18, 3-5 p.m., Minnesota Commons, St. Paul Student Center; and Jan. 25, 3-5 p.m., 140 Nolte Center. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/events.php .

PROVIDE COMMENTS THROUGH JAN. 27 on preliminary recommendations from 11 academic strategic positioning task forces. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning .

University-wide:

HEALTH CONNECTIONS: The Health Connections administrator, Harris Health Trends (HHT), has now dedicated a telephone line exclusively for inquiries from UPlan medical program members. The Health Resource Center number is 877-247-9204. For more information about Health Connections, including a link to the confidential wellness assessment, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/wellness/healthconnections .

NEW U POLICIES on individual conflict of interest and frequent-flyer miles and revised policies on changes to travel per diem rates, indirect cost recovery, investment social concerns, openness in research, and campus health and safety, are now posted in the policy library on the Web. For more information, see http://www.fpd.finop.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/main/new.cfm .

CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE (CSC) MEETING: All civil service staff members are welcome to attend; meetings are open to the public. Jan. 26, 9 a.m.-noon, 101 Walter Library, UMTC. For more information on CSC and to view the agenda, see http://www.umn.edu/csc .

CALL FOR PROPOSALS: INITIATIVES IN DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY grant award program for fiscal year 2006-07. The program provides support to U faculty members for research projects or events in several broad areas. Deadline: Mar. 31. For more information, see http://www.dtc.umn.edu .

REGISTER NOW FOR THE LEGISLATIVE BRIEFING AND RECEPTION. Includes light dinner, a presentation on the U's 2006 legislative request, and break-out training sessions for advocacy. Jan. 25, 5:30-8 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC. Free. To register and sign up for a training session, see http://ga4.org/u_of_m_leg_net/events/legbriefing06/details.tcl .

Crookston:

INAUGURATION OF CHANCELLOR CASEY WILL BE MAR. 3. The event will be part of a yearlong celebration to mark UMC's centennial. 2:30 p.m., Kiehle Auditorium. A reception will follow in the Northern Lights Lounge, Student Center. A dinner featuring locally grown foods and a centennial dance will be held in the evening. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=220 .

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. WEEK events will include "The History of the Black Church in the United States," by Rev. Jackson, Gospel Outreach Ministries, Grand Forks, North Dakota, and a concert by the Gospel Outreach Ministries Choir accompanied by Barbara Burgess. Jan. 19, 4-5 p.m., Prairie Room, Student Center. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/eventcal.aspx .

Duluth:

GOVERNOR PAWLENTY HELD A NEWS CONFERENCE AT UMD JAN. 13, where he announced he will recommend $15.3 million for a new building for the Labovitz School of Business and Economics. The new structure is planned to be 65,000 square feet, approximately 1.5 times the size of the current School of Business and Economics. The project is partially funded by a $4.5 million gift from Duluth natives Sharon and Joel Labovitz. Total cost of the building is estimated at $23 million, with $7.7 million from University funds. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/finop/DW_LSBE_sheet.htm .

Morris:

THE CENTER FOR SMALL TOWNS at UMM and the city of Morris are together one of five finalists for the Carter Partnership Award for Campus-Community Collaboration. The award, named for the former president and Rosalynn Carter, honors exemplary collaborations, undertaken by a college or university in partnership with a community group, that address critical areas of public need. Awards will be presented this spring. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=139 .

Rochester:

A ONE-DAY TRAINING WORKSHOP ON THE MINNESOTA PHOSPHORUS INDEX will teach how to use the index to identify high risk agricultural sites and choose management options to reduce risk of phosphorus loss. Presented by the U Department of Soil, Water, and Climate in cooperation with state and federal sponsors and the U Extension Service. Feb. 3, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., UCR classroom EA 119. For more information or to register, contact [email protected] or 612-624-6765 or see http://www.mnpi.umn.edu .

Twin Cities:

NEARLY 5,000 LAW SCHOOL ALUMNI joined the ranks of the U of M Alumni Association (UMAA) when a new partnership formed between the UMAA and the U of M Law Alumni Association. The formerly separate Law School group will now operate as the Law School Alumni Society, one of 18 college-based alumni associations affiliated with the UMAA. For more information, see http://www.alumni.umn.edu/14Dec20055.html .

A CAMPUS MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR FRANK HIRSCHBACH, professor emeritus, Department of German, Scandinavian, and Dutch, will be held today, 5 p.m., Arthur Upson Room, 102 Walter Library. Hirschbach, who joined the U faculty in 1958, died Dec. 12. For more information, see http://www.gsd.umn.edu/news.php?id=6 or contact Melody Pauling at [email protected] or 612- 625-7399.

MINNESOTA CONFIDENTIAL, a 30-minute documentary about the history and current debate over the Minnesota Minors' Consent to Health Services Act of 1971, will be presented with an introduction by School of Public Health dean John Finnegan and Minnesota Public Health Association president- elect Jan Malcolm. Audience response and a legislative panel on the upcoming state session will follow. Jan. 24, 5:30-8 p.m., Coffman Union theater. For more information, contact Ellen Benavides at [email protected] or 651-646-5115.

A HALF-DAY CONFERENCE ON GOVERNANCE will feature national experts on best government practices across the country, governor's office staff members, and state legislators. Jan. 27, 8 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., Cowles Auditorium, Humphrey Center. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2682&from=umnnews .

"FIRE AND ICE: EXTREME ADVENTURES FROM THE ARCTIC TO THE EQUATOR," a new series of multimedia travelogues for armchair travelers as well as high-energy tourists, will include adventurers who have studied amphibians and reptiles in Brazil, wildlife in the Arctic, seals in the Antarctic, and clouded leopard in Borneo. Sponsored by the Bell Museum of Natural History. First up is Tony Gamble, resident biologist and photographer, Jan. 29, 2 p.m., Bell Museum. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2642&from=umnnews .

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: JURIED RESEARCH POSTER EXHIBIT FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS. The U chapter of Sigma Xi will sponsor an exhibit of posters judged for excellence in communicating science and engineering, Mar. 27, Coffman Union. Winners will be recognized with cash awards. Deadline: Feb. 14. For more information, e-mail Michael Russelle at [email protected] .

THE 26TH ANNUAL SUNBOWL, a month of bowling to qualify for a grand prize $2,000 travel voucher, includes four games of no-tap bowling, shoe rental, SunBowl Meal Deal, and a chance to win great prizes. Entry fee $10. Jan. 23-Feb. 24, Goldy's Gameroom in Coffman Union and the Gopher Spot in the St. Paul Student Center. For more information, see http://www.coffman.umn.edu/goldys/sunbowl.php .

MORE EVENTS include "The Future of Tax Reform: Report of the President's Commission" (Jan. 18); "Exploring Work Options at the U" (Jan. 19); CITIES, a multimedia exhibition at the Nash (through Feb. 16, public reception Jan. 20); Killing Us Softly in the Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (EOAA) Film Fridays series (Jan. 20); "Ebony and Crystal Clear" ballroom dance sponsored by the Faculty Dancing Club (Jan. 21); Darfur Action Conference: "Responding to the Genocide in Sudan" (Jan. 22); Animals in Translation author Temple Grandin (Jan. 23); and "Puttin' on the Ritz: What's So Jewish About the Music of Irving Berlin?" (Jan. 24). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (1-25-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_1252006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 3; Jan. 25, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Transforming the U --Metrics and Measurements Task Force progress report is available for public comment through Feb. 24. --Deadline for comments on 11 academic task forces' preliminary recommendations is Jan. 27.

2. Features --U's preK-12 partnership: Patricia Harvey talks about the systemwide task force and strategy. --UMTC humanities district: Nicholson Hall reopening celebration Jan. 27.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Transforming the U

THE METRICS AND MEASUREMENTS TASK FORCE PROGRESS REPORT is now available. The public is encouraged to comment through Feb. 24. The report suggests that the U consider several measures, including the U of Florida's annual "The Top American Research Universities," to benchmark progress toward becoming one of the top three public research universities in the world. Additional proposed measures include student participation in public engagement activities, retention and graduation rates for undergraduates, and time-to-degree rates for graduate students. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_metrics_measurement.html .

DEADLINE FOR COMMENTS ON 11 TASK FORCES' PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS IS JAN. 27. Task forces will make final recommendations Feb. 3 to team leaders Provost Sullivan and Senior VP Jones. Recommendations will be forwarded for review by relevant senior officers and then to the president and senior vice presidents for determination of next steps. For a list of the task forces and links to their recommendations, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning .

2. Features

THE U'S PreK-12 PARTNERSHIP: Patricia Harvey, former superintendent of St. Paul Public Schools and current cochair of the U's Systemwide Academic Task Force on PreK-12 Strategy, talks about why she is so optimistic about the possibility to make great change in education. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Patricia_Harvey_optimistic_about_the_future_of_Uni.html .

UMTC HUMANITIES DISTRICT: NICHOLSON HALL CELEBRATES REOPENING. Capital bonding saved this historic home to units ranging from chemistry and an attic theater to the student union and bookstore. Nicholson's restored splendor makes it a suitable heart for the emerging humanities district. Thousands of students are already taking courses in its classroom space, and four College of Liberal Arts units have made it their new home. Grand reopening festivities will include music, food, an open archaeology lab, film shorts, mini writing consultations, and more humanities highlights. Jan. 27, noon-1:30 p.m., Nicholson Hall. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Nicholson_Hall_reopens.html .

Feature stories are published daily in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews .

3. Campus Events and Information

University-wide:

GRANT-IN-AID OF RESEARCH, ARTISTRY, AND SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM application deadline is Feb. 6 for the grant period July 1, 2006, to Jan. 15, 2008. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/faculty-staff/funding/dean/gia or contact the Graduate School's Research Support Services, 612-625-2356.

NOMINATIONS FOR THE DISTINGUISHED LEADERSHIP AWARD FOR INTERNATIONALS is Feb. 1. This U-wide award honors leadership by international alumni, former students, and friends of the U. Up to five awards will be made for 2006. For more information, see http://www.international.umn.edu/awards/leader/leader.html .

TECHNOLOGY ENHANCED LEARNING (TEL) GRANTS support instructors in developing, implementing, and evaluating projects with programmatic potential that improve educational access, enhance community, or incorporate emerging technology such as Macromedia Breeze, podcasting, blogs, or wikis. Deadline: Feb. 16. For more information, see http://dmc.umn.edu/grants .

THE SPRING TEL SEMINAR SERIES will begin with "Thinking With Our Ears: Learning With Digital Audio," Feb. 1, noon-1:30 p.m., 402 Walter Library, UMTC. Subsequent topics will include "Collaboration and Community Building With MyU" (Mar. 2), "Web 2.0: Promoting Collaboration and Student-Centered Learning" (Apr. 5), "Transforming Education: Engaging Students With Technology" (May 3). For more information, see http://dmc.umn.edu/series/spring06.shtml .

FINANCE LUNCHEON SERIES: The 2006 brown-bag series kicks off with "How to Reduce Debt and Build Wealth." Get tips from a Vanguard representative on how to save more, spend less, make the most of every dollar, and move from paying interest to earning it. Feb. 1, noon-1 p.m., 215 Donhowe, UMTC. Brown-bag finance luncheons will be held Wednesdays in February. No registration is required, and all employees are welcome. Topics are "A Woman's Money" by TIAA-CREF (Feb. 8), "The Power of Diversification" by Fidelity (Feb. 15), and "Real Estate Investing" by Securian (Feb. 22). For more information, call Myron Guthrie at 612-624-8550 or see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits/events .

Crookston:

GOVERNOR PAWLENTY BROADCAST his weekly radio program from Crookston Jan. 20, when he announced the appointment of UMC adjunct faculty member Tamara Yon and Jeff Remick, both Crookston area attorneys, to the Ninth Judicial District trial court bench. The governor also celebrated Maroon & Gold Friday with representatives of the UMC Alumni Association and the UMC mascot, Regal Eagle. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=225 .

A UMC SENIOR WILL PRESENT HER BIOLOGY RESEARCH at the 20th Anniversary National Conference on Undergraduate Research at the U of North Carolina-Asheville in April. Vanessa Armstrong and assistant professor Brian Dingmann have been researching rotifers--organisms near the bottom of the food chain--and the impact of three chemicals finding their way into recreational waters. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=222 .

Duluth:

THE GREAT LAKES MARITIME RESEARCH INSTITUTE (GLMRI), a collaboration of UMD and the U of Wisconsin-Superior (UWS), has been awarded a $2 million federal grant for its work maintaining and promoting maritime transportation on the Great Lakes. The GLMRI was designated a National Maritime Enhancement Institute for the Great Lakes by the U.S. Maritime Administration last June. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/January/10.html .

THE UMD GAY LESBIAN BISEXUAL TRANSGENDER (GLBT) SERVICES OFFICE received a $2,500 grant from Pfund, a foundation that celebrates and strengthens GLBT communities. The grant will be used to provide public education and outreach to northeast Minnesota groups and organizations about anti-gay marriage amendments and the impact on GLBT families. UMD will work collaboratively with OutFront Minnesota, the state's leading GLBT organization. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/January/11.html .

Morris:

BLACK HISTORY MONTH KEYNOTE ADDRESS will be given by Tyrone Hayes, professor of biology, U of California, Berkeley, who produced a series of high-profile studies challenging the ecological safety of atrazine and its link to abnormalities in frogs. "From Boyhood Curiosity to Scientific Discovery," Feb. 1, 7:30 p.m., Edson Auditorium; a reception will follow in the Alumni Room, Oyate Hall. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php? newsID=156 .

UMM RANKED 9TH NATIONALLY among the top 15 schools as a best value for out-of-state students in the 2006 Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine survey of the 100 best values among public institutions of higher education. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=152 .

TICKETS FOR A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION at UMM are still available. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=142 .

Twin Cities:

"CELEBRATE! THE COLLEGE OF HUMAN ECOLOGY," an exhibition showcasing CHE's current work, history, and future, opening reception will be Jan. 29, 1:30-4:30 p.m., Goldstein Museum of Design. For more information, see http://goldstein.che.umn.edu/exhibitions.html .

AMERICAN STUDIES IN THE 21ST CENTURY colloquium series presents "From the Borderlands to the Transnational: Critiquing Empire in the 21st Century," with Josie Saldana-Portillo, visiting associate professor at Rutgers University and a researcher on the economic causes and political consequences of recent Mexican immigration to the New York metro area. Jan. 30, 3:30 p.m., 105 Scott Hall. A reception will follow. For more information, see http://events.tc.umn.edu/event.xml? occurrence=392061 .

THE CENTER FOR WRITING'S "TEACHING WITH WRITING" SERIES FOR INSTRUCTORS begins with a discussion, "Assigning Blogs," Feb. 2, noon-1:30 p.m., 101 Walter; free lunch for the first 30 to register. More topics over the semester will include "Incorporating Writing Into Busy Content Courses" (Feb. 22), "Handling the Paper Load" (Feb. 28), "Designing Effective Research Assignments" (Mar. 2), and six more discussions. For more information, see http://writing.umn.edu/home/events.htm .

"REEL DAMES" FILM SERIES, featuring documentary films by and about women, will open with Tales of the Night Fairies, Shohini Ghosh's film about sex workers, with a discussion by associate professor of women's studies Jigna Desai. Jan. 26, 7 p.m., 2-530 Moos Tower. For the full schedule, see http://www.umn.edu/women/events.html .

"FROM EVERY VOICE," the 25th annual concert celebrating the life and achievements of Martin Luther King, Jr., will be presented by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the School of Music. Free and open to the public; no tickets are required. Feb. 5, 4 p.m., Ted Mann Concert Hall. Parking is available at the 21st Avenue ramp, a block southwest of the hall.

VAN-GO! VANPOOLING INFORMATION SESSIONS will be held on three days at three campus locations. Today: 110 St. Paul Student Center (SPSC), 7-9 a.m.; 324 Coffman Union (CMU), 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 26: SPSC, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; 324 CMU, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Jan. 31: 324 CMU, 7-9 a.m.; 280 Ferguson Hall, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Van-Go! and Zipcar are two new programs to reduce the number of cars at the U and increase transportation convenience. For more information, read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/No_car3F_No_problem.html .

FACULTY AND STAFF WHO WILL BE AWAY FROM THE TWIN CITIES CAMPUS during the next academic year and would like to rent their home to a new U faculty or staff member should contact the Relocation Assistance Program (RAP), [email protected] or 612-626-0775.

JAMBA JUICE is now open on the first floor of Coffman Union, serving smoothies, juices, and other drinks with optional nutritional add-ons. A grand opening smoothie sample celebration will be Jan. 31, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; FlexDine is accepted. Regular hours 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Jamba Juice is available as a service of University Dining Services. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/dining .

UPCOMING AUTHOR PRESENTATIONS AT U BOOKSTORES include Regents Professor Vernon Ruttan, applied economics, on his book Is War Necessary for Economic Growth? Military Procurement and Technology Development. Feb. 1, 2 p.m., U Bookstore, Coffman Union. For more information, see http://www.bookstore.umn.edu/genref/authors.html .

MORE EVENTS include the final task force open forum on Undergraduate Reform: Student Support (today, 3-5 p.m., 140 Nolte Center); a public lecture by visiting artist, critic, and curator Mark Harris (Jan. 26); a forum on the Emerging Markets Homeownership Initiative (Jan. 27); A Midsummer Night's Dream at University Theatre (reopening Jan. 27, through Feb. 5); "Biology in Brazil: A Photo Journey" at the Bell (Jan. 29); "The Science of Human Identification: From the Laboratory to the Courtroom" (Jan. 31); and "Why Sustainability is Changing the Future of Business" (Feb. 1). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (2-01-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_2012006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 4; Feb. 1, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Features --Preview: state legislative session. --Measuring success.

2. Campus Events and Information

1. Features

PREVIEW: STATE LEGISLATIVE SESSION. At the annual legislative briefing Jan. 25, a record crowd of nearly 400 people got a preview of the session due to start Mar. 1. The U's $206.1 million request in bonding includes $80 million for systemwide building upkeep and upgrades (HEAPR), $4.2 million for three research centers and field stations, business education facilities at UMD and UMTC, and two proposed UMTC buildings--one for science teaching and student services and one for medical biosciences. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_kicks_off_legislative_advocacy_efforts.html .

MEASURING SUCCESS: How will the U know when it has reached its goal of becoming a top-three public research university? Metrics and Measurement Task Force chair Al Sullivan talks about the preliminary report and the value of adopting clear goals and measurements. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Reaching_the_top_three.html .

WAR AND ECONOMICS: In Is War Necessary for Economic Growth? regents professor Vernon Ruttan makes the case for a new strategy to catalyze technological progress. He'll talk about his book today, 2 p.m., U Bookstore, Coffman Union, UMTC. Read this and more feature stories in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews .

2. Campus Events and Information

University-wide:

2006 McKNIGHT LAND-GRANT PROFESSORS, named by the Office of the Provost and the Graduate School in January, are Demoz Gebre-Egziabher, aerospace engineering and mechanics; Yongdae Kim, computer science and engineering; Efie Kokkoli, chemical engineering and materials science; Ronald Krebs, political science; Angus MacDonald III, psychology; Steven Manson, geography; David Rapp, educational psychology; Stergios Roumeliotis, computer science and engineering; Mark Thomas, neuroscience; and Cynthia Weinig, plant biology. They will be honored by the Board of Regents in March. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/faculty- staff/mcknight/land_grant_recipients.html .

PRESIDENT'S FACULTY MULTICULTURAL RESEARCH AWARD recipients are Kenneth Bartlett, work and human resource education; Tasoulla Hadjiyanni, design, housing, and apparel; Rashne Jehangir, General College; Michael Rodriguez, educational psychology; Maria Sera, Institute of Child Development; Catherine Solheim, family social science; and Dara Strolovitch, political science. The awards, which support research for up to two years, are sponsored by the Office of the Senior VP for System Administration and the Office for Multicultural and Academic Affairs. For more information, see http://academic.umn.edu/system/communications/announce012706.html .

THE SENATE CAPITAL INVESTMENT COMMITTEE toured the UMTC 2006 capital projects Jan. 26. The tour included several state-funded projects now complete, including Jones and Nicholson halls and the McGuire Translational Research Facility. The house committee is planning a tour of UMTC projects in February. UMD projects were visited by senate and house committees in October. The legislature will take up the U's request after the opening of the session Mar. 1. See also "Preview: State Legislative Session," above.

THE 2006 STATE OF THE UNIVERSITY ADDRESS will be delivered by President Bruininks at UMM Mar. 2, 3 p.m. It will be broadcast to other campus locations in conjunction with the U Senate meeting. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/usenate/calendars/senmeeting05-06.html .

BALANCING WORK AND LIFE: The WorkLife Effectiveness Program provides resources on topics from caring for an elderly parent or family member to buying a new home and parenting. The spring schedule kicks off with "Creative Discipline: A Guide to More Effective Parenting," Feb 7. The popular Eldercare Initiative series also continues, with sessions available through interactive television at UMD, UMM, and UMR. For more information or to register for upcoming classes, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/worklife/workshops.html .

"SEX IS NOT A FOUR-LETTER WORD," a sexual-health data-sharing conference for staff, faculty, advisers, and students will feature results from the 2004 Student Health Assessment Survey conducted by Boynton Health Service, UMTC. Feb. 7, 8:30-11 a.m., theater, Coffman Union. Free; no registration required. For more information, see http://www.bhs.umn.edu or e-mail Dave Dorman at [email protected] .

"LEADERSHIP WITH STRONG PERSONALITIES," second in a series of three seminars on leadership, will feature Minnesota Orchestra music director Osmo Vanska and Nuclear Management Company president and CEO Michael Sellman. Feb. 17, 3:30-5:30 p.m., School of Public Health, UMTC; reception follows. Free, but registration is required. Part of the Health Sector Leader Challenges Series. For more information, see http://www.hsr.umn.edu/mha/alumni/lcs2005 .

FRIENDS OF EASTCLIFF BOOK CLUB will discuss Gopher Tales with author Ray Christensen, Gopher Hall of Fame broadcaster. Feb. 2, 7 p.m., Eastcliff. Membership required; proceeds support upkeep of the historic U home and meeting place. Call Dana Zniewski at 612-627-6800 to reserve a seat. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Gopher_tales.html .

Crookston:

AG-ARAMA, held at UMC Jan. 27-28, was attended by more than 200 students, family members, and friends. Senior Alison Stone received the True Grit Award for her active participation and encouragement of others through the weekend event. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews .

THE WINTER JOB AND INTERNSHIP FAIR will feature more than 30 employers, from AGSCO to Wells Fargo. Today, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Bede Ballroom, Student Center. For more information, see http://ccs.umcrookston.edu/career/career_today.htm .

Duluth:

THE LIFE SCIENCE BUILDING RENOVATION kicked off with a ceremony and celebration Jan. 26. The $15.2 million renovation will house the College of Pharmacy, Duluth, and the UMD Department of Biology when it reopens fall semester 2007. Donor and Duluth native Bruce Paddock, president of Minneapolis-based Paddock Laboratories, spoke at the event. Paddock Laboratories donated $2 million toward the renovation and for pharmacy education at UMD; when complete, the first and second floors will be named the Paddock Laboratories Pharmacy Education Center. The ground and third floors will be the east extension of the Department of Biology, headquartered in the adjacent new Swenson Science Building. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/January/26-A.html .

Morris:

UMM HAS RECEIVED A RECORD NUMBER OF APPLICANTS for fall 2006 admission, up 46 percent from this time last year. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/UMM_receives_record_number_of_student_applications.html .

Rochester:

THE STATE'S ROCHESTER HIGHER EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE released a report Jan. 25 with a "solid blueprint" for expanding higher education opportunities in Rochester. Under the plan, the state would draw on research expertise of the U, Mayo Clinic, IBM, and other partners to develop "signature academic programs" to attract students from around the region and the world. Senior VP Jones said the U is pleased with the recommendations and looks forward to taking a leadership role. The report is posted on the Web. For more information, see http://www.ohe.state.mn.us/rochester .

Twin Cities:

ENERGY CONSERVATION CAMPAIGN: If every light on campus were shut off one more hour a day, UMTC would save more than $500,000 a year. Facilities Management is starting a campaign to raise awareness about energy use and to encourage faculty, staff, and students to make small changes that together will make a big difference. The campaign begins with a contest for logo and slogan ideas, Feb. 1-Mar. 1. For more information, see http://www.facm.umn.edu/energypress.html .

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT INVITES U EMPLOYEES to provide ideas and advice at open houses Feb. 1-3. Facilities Management is beginning a six-month process to identify ways to become a more customer-focused organization. Faculty and staff are invited to visit with the steering committee. Feb. 1: 6-8 a.m., Willey Hall, upper concourse; 2:30-4:30 p.m., St. Paul Student Center, terrace. Feb. 2: 6-8 a.m., Washington Avenue bridge, east end; 2:30-4:30 p.m., Coffman Union, ground floor, and Willey Hall, upper concourse. Feb. 3: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Washington Avenue bridge, east end. For more information, see http://www.facm.umn.edu/Transformation .

THE U'S PILLSBURY COURT TOWNHOUSES have several openings for incoming and new tenure-track faculty. For more information see http://www.housing.umn.edu/visitors/faculty/pillsbury.shtml and call Fred Frogner, 612-624-1969, or Dianna Anderson, 612-625-2121.

RECOGNIZE EXCELLENT STUDENTS WITH WHOM YOU WORK. President's Student Leadership and Service Award nominations are due Feb. 10. Faculty, staff, and students may nominate undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. As part of the awards process, candidates may be considered for UMAA, Zander, and McEvoy awards. For more information, see http://www.sao.umn.edu/awards .

OUT OF GAS: THE END OF THE OIL AGE author, physicist, and Caltech vice provost David Goodstein will deliver the next Physics and Astronomy Colloquium. Today, 4 p.m., 131 Physics. For more information, see http://www.physics.umn.edu/calendar/PAC/calendar.html?item=1698 .

"WORLD HERITAGE: THE NEW AGENDA FOR HIGHER EDUCATION" will be the topic of a public lecture by Dinu Bumbaru, who leads an organization that advises the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on built, archaeological, and landscape heritage. Sponsored by the new Center for World Heritage Studies in the College of Architecture and Landscape Architecture. Feb. 3, 4:30 p.m., Rapson Hall auditorium. For more information, see http://www.cala.umn.edu/worldheritage .

"ARTFUL MATHEMATICS," a public lecture by Dartmouth U professor of math and computer science Daniel Rockmore, will be presented by the Institute for Mathematics and its Applications. Feb. 8, 7 p.m., 125 Willey Hall. For more information, see http://www.ima.umn.edu/2005-2006/PUB2.8.06/ .

BLOGS AND WIKIS will be the topic of the next Educational Technologists Forum meeting. Feb. 9, 3- 4:30 p.m., 402 Walter Library. For more information, see http://dmc.umn.edu/etf/schedule05.shtml#3 .

NEW YEAR CELEBRATION: The Chinese American Student Association will welcome the Year of the Dog with a celebration of food, music, and dance. Feb. 5, 4-7 p.m., Great Hall, Coffman Union. Free for U students and staff. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=2702 .

MORE EVENTS include Freak of Nature in the Science on the Screen series (Feb. 1); The People's Temple playwright Leigh Fondakowski (Feb. 2); Leonardo's Lost Robots author Mark Rosheim (Feb. 3); 25th annual concert to honor Martin Luther King, Jr. (Feb. 5); and "Climate Change and Intergenerational Fairness--Reconciling Ethics and Economics" (Feb. 7). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (2-08-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_2082006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 5; Feb. 8, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --New regent is Cynthia Lesher, appointed Feb. 7. --Student aid programs cut by $12 billion.

2. Features --Administrative Service and Productivity Steering Committee: public comment invited on Progress and Implementation Priorities Report through Mar. 6. --CAPA forms transition work group for Wave 1 college P&A staff.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

NEW U REGENT is Cynthia Lesher, appointed by Gov. Pawlenty Feb. 7 for a term ending in February 2007. Lesher is president and CEO of Xcel Energy in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota and is a member of the Women's Economic Roundtable, which is made up of the top 100 women leaders in Minnesota. She holds degrees from Drake and St. Cloud State U and completed the U Carlson School of Management Master's of Excellence program. Lesher resides in the fourth congressional district. She will complete the term of Richard McNamara, who resigned in December. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2732&from=umnnews and http://www.governor.state.mn.us/Tpaw_View_Article.asp?artid=1732 .

STUDENT AID PROGRAMS WERE CUT BY $12 BILLION in a budget reconciliation bill approved by Congress Feb. 1. President Bush is expected to sign it today. The U and student groups lobbied hard against the bill, and the vote was close--216-214; Minnesota delegation members voting no included McCollum, Oberstar, Peterson, Ramstad, and Sabo. Nearly a third of spending cuts in the bill came from student financial aid programs. Loan origination fees for the Federal Direct Loan Program will double, costing U of M students alone an estimated $3.15 million next year. For more information, see http://www.usstudents.org/p.asp?WebPage_ID=7 and "Current update" at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/fedrel .

2. Features

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE AND PRODUCTIVITY STEERING COMMITTEE released its Progress and Implementation Priorities Report Feb. 6. The U community is invited to comment through Mar. 6. The committee reviewed reports from seven administrative task forces and organized recommendations into four broad categories: people, organization/structure, information, and culture. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Ushering_in_transformational_change.html .

CAPA HAS FORMED A TRANSITION WORK GROUP FOR P&A STAFF IN WAVE 1 COLLEGES. Academic professional and administrative (P&A) staff in departments from three Twin Cities campus colleges met last month to start planning for life in their new college July 1. They had lunch, brainstormed, and bowled. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Council_of_Academic_Professionals_and_Administrators/ Wave_1_college_staff.html .

PEOPLE: Extension Service director Beverly Durgan has been appointed to also lead the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station; UMC has hired a new communications director, Krista Lemos; and Tom McRoberts has been named UMM's permanent director of Continuing Education and Regional Programs. Read these and other announcements in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Feature stories are published daily in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews . This week's features include "Bulldog, Gopher hockey players well represented at Olympics" and "Medieval studies scholars bind schoolchildren for a spell."

3. Campus Events and Information

University-wide:

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL INVITES PROPOSALS for improving the quality of graduate education and the graduate student experience at the U. This initiative follows the exploration of three Grad School priorities at its centennial symposium in October: (1) increasing access to graduate education for underrepresented groups, (2) innovating in the design of graduate education to produce excellent student experiences and outcomes, and (3) developing institutional policies and practices that facilitate interdisciplinary teaching, research, and training in graduate education. Deadline: Mar. 17. Awards will be announced in April and celebrated at a public event in early May. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/dgs/innovation.html .

PRESIDENT'S EMERGING LEADERS (PEL) Program is accepting applications for the 2006-07 cohort. PEL identifies talented staff and further develops their readiness and skills for leadership roles. Participants become part of a talent pool that administrators can tap for open U positions or other assignments that require leadership skills. Qualified individuals are nominated by U leaders and selected by a special review committee. Application deadline: Mar. 10. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/pel .

A WELCOME RECEPTION for Anne Phibbs, new director of the systemwide Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender (GLBT) Programs Office, will be hosted by the Office of Multicultural and Academic Affairs. Feb. 13, 12:30-2 p.m., remarks at 1 p.m., Ski-U-Mah Room, McNamara Alumni Center. For more information, see http://www.oma.umn.edu/glbt_finalists.html .

"A WOMAN'S MONEY/A WOMAN'S FUTURE" is the topic of the next program in the Brown-Bag Finance Luncheon Series. Feb. 8, noon-1 p.m., 215 Donhowe. Sponsored by Employee Benefits and TIAA-CREF. The series continues on Wednesdays in February. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits/events .

PROGRAM EVALUATION TRAINING OPPORTUNITY for professionals and students, including contemporary issues in evaluation, will feature national experts and practitioners. The 11th Annual Minnesota Evaluation Studies Institute (MESI) is sponsored by the Department of Educational Policy and Administration. Mar. 22-24, pre-session workshops Mar. 21-22, Bloomington. Early registration discounts through Feb. 17. For more information, see http://education.umn.edu/EdPA/MESI .

Crookston:

PUBLIC COMMENT SOUGHT FOR ACCREDITATION EVALUATION THROUGH MAR. 23. UMC will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit by its regional accrediting agency Apr. 24-26. The Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools has accredited UMC since 1964. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=231 .

Duluth:

"THE IMPACT OF METHAMPHETAMINE ON CHILDREN AND FAMILIES: Research and Community Response" will be the topic of a conference sponsored by the Center for Regional and Tribal Welfare Studies. Research on parents' meth use and child welfare in the rural Midwest will be the presented during the keynote address. Feb. 9-10, ballroom, Kirby Student Center. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/February/01-A.html .

THE NO. 29 JERSEY OF BULLDOG HOCKEY STAR Brett Hull was officially retired Feb. 3 before a capacity crowd--including Hull himself--at the UMD vs. U of Wisconsin game in Duluth. During two years with the Bulldogs, 1984-86, Hull was the most prolific goal producer in UMD history. He signed with Calgary for the 1985 playoffs and went on to 20 years in the National Hockey League and nine times as an NHL All Star before retiring from the Phoenix Coyotes in 2005. For more information, see http://www.umdbulldogs.com/index.php?story_id=2262 .

Morris:

CHANCELLOR FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS AND DEAN John Schwaller has been named president of the State U of New York at Potsdam beginning July 1. Division of Education chair Judith Kuechle will serve as interim vice chancellor and dean beginning Mar. 4 through fall semester; associate professor of psychology Leslie Meek will serve as assistant academic dean. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=177 .

TICKETS FOR A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION at UMM Feb. 11 are still available. The radio show will broadcast live on National Public Radio from the P.E. Center, 4:45 p.m. General admission is $45; $15 for UMM students. For tickets, call 320-589-6356. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=142 .

Twin Cities:

A NATIONAL SEARCH WILL BE CONDUCTED FOR A DEAN to head the new college that will be formed resulting from the integration of the College of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences (COAFES); the College of Natural Resources (CNR); and the College of Human Ecology's Department of Food Science and Nutrition. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2713&from=umnnews .

THE VOICEMAIL SYSTEM IS BEING REPLACED. Networking and Telecommunication Services (NTS) will convert all UMTC voicemail accounts this spring. Information meetings are scheduled for Feb. 21, 23, and 28. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/nts or e-mail [email protected] .

CONFERENCE AND EVENT SERVICES opened in 2005 as a one-stop service center for planning events on the Twin Cities campus. For more information, see http://www.uces.umn.edu .

DIGITAL MEDIA CENTER (DMC) FACULTY FELLOWSHIPS provide instructors with opportunities to research the impact of digital technology on teaching and learning and to design and share new and innovative teaching and learning processes. Applicants must be faculty members or academic professionals with primary responsibility for teaching courses. Deadline: Feb. 27. For more information, see http://dmc.umn.edu/fellowship .

"THE DRAMATIC FAILURE OF U.S. TRAFFIC SAFETY POLICY," a talk by Leonard Evans, will be the 2006 Center for Transportation Studies winter luncheon. Evans is president of Science Serving Society. Feb. 9, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Radisson University Hotel-Minneapolis. Register at the door. For more information, see http://www.cts.umn.edu/events/luncheon/2006/winter .

McKNIGHT SUMMER FELLOWS PRESENTATIONS will highlight issues of colonialism in Sudan, Egypt, Algeria, and Kenya in presentations by Tamara Giles-Vernick and Paricia Lorcin, history, and Shaden Tageldin, cultural studies and comparative literature. Feb. 9, 3:30-5 p.m., 140 Nolte Center.

A STAGED READING OF THE PURPLE FLOWER, a Harlem Renaissance play, and a town hall meeting of faculty members, students, and the community will be facilitated by guest artist and professor Tisch Jones. Presented by the Department of African American and African Studies, Department of Theatre Arts and Dance, and Black Student Union. Feb. 10, 2-4 p.m., Rarig Center; a soul-food dinner will follow in the lobby. For more information, see http://events.umn.edu/event? occurrence=392767;event=112193 .

PRIDE @ WORK BREAKFAST will welcome new GLBT Programs director Anne Phibbs. Feb. 14, 8-9 a.m., 152 Klaeber Court.

THE U WILL COSPONSOR A NATIONAL SUMMIT ON PREPARING FOR PANDEMIC FLU for business and industry. Feb. 14-15, Minneapolis Convention Center. For more information, see http://www.cidrap.umn.edu .

"EPIDEMICS IN THE MAKING: POLITICS AND THE PRODUCTION OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE," an interdisciplinary conference featuring a keynote by Columbia U professor Stephen Morse, will be sponsored by the Institute for Advanced Study. Feb. 16-17, Humphrey Center and Nolte Center. Free and open to the public; no registration required. For more information, see http://www.ias.umn.edu/symposiumcal.php .

A MAYORS SUMMIT ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING'S GREEN ISSUES, including environmental and economic sustainability, will feature four area mayors and be held in conjunction with the Weisman Art Museum exhibit, "The HOME House Project: The Future of Affordable Housing." Feb. 15, 3-5 p.m., Humphrey Institute. Free, but reservations are required. For more information, see http://www.hhh.umn.edu/news/headlines/headlines2006/hhh_events.html .

MARTIN LUTHER KING III's visit to the U has been postponed to Feb. 27 due to Coretta Scott King's death. For more information, see http://www.coffman.umn.edu/mlk .

MORE EVENTS include "What's Up in Sustainable Agriculture?" on the U becoming the new host institution for the federal NCR-SARE (today); guest author Phillip Lopate (Feb. 9); Kurdish human rights film and civil society charity event, including activist Kani Xulam (Feb. 9 and 11); "New Media Literature" by visiting professor Thom Swiss (Feb. 10); march for immigrant rights (Feb. 12); "Pedagogical Authority and Leadership in a Feminist Classroom" (Feb. 13); "Psychology of Romance" at Cafe Scientifique (Feb. 14); and The Rosa Parks Story film and discussion (Feb. 15). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (2-15-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_2152006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 6; Feb. 15, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --U-wide Founders Opportunity Scholarships have expanded to benefit 4,500 students per year from families with incomes of less than $50,000. --President Bush proposed fiscal year 2007 budget Feb. 6. --U testified at U.S. Senate energy hearings Feb. 13.

2. Features --Q&A with new regent Cynthia Lesher. --People: awards and appointments.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

THE U-WIDE FOUNDERS OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIPS have been expanded to include transfer students. Once fully implemented, the scholarships will benefit about 4,500 students from low- and middle-income families in Minnesota who are eligible for Pell grants. The scholarships are intended for students from families with annual incomes of less than $50,000. Nearly a third of the scholarships are expected to go to students of color. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Lowincome_students_get_tuition_and_fees_guarantee.html .

PRESIDENT BUSH'S PROPOSED BUDGET for fiscal year 2007, announced last week, contains a $600 million reduction in nondefense discretionary requests from 2006 funding levels. While the proposed American Competitiveness Initiative would give basic research and education an unprecedented leadership role in the domestic agenda, the proposed budget contains significant reductions in funding for biomedical research, rural health initiatives, and student financial aid. The National Science Foundation would see an increase of 7.9%, and $24 million is included for languages deemed critical in the National Security Language Initiative. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/urelate/fedrel/dc_updates.html .

U TESTIFIES AT U.S. SENATE ENERGY HEARINGS: VP for university services Kathleen O'Brien testified at a U.S. Senate subcommittee field hearing in St. Paul Feb. 13 on the impact of high energy costs on consumers. O'Brien discussed the U's energy conservation efforts as well as renewable energy initiatives, including the wind turbine and biomass projects in Morris and the plan to burn oat hulls on the Twin Cities campus. The U was invited to testify by subcommittee chair Norm Coleman (R-MN). Read O'Brien's written testimony at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/fedrel .

2. Features

Q&A WITH THE U'S NEWEST REGENT: Xcel Energy CEO Cynthia Lesher, sworn in by Minnesota chief justice Russell Anderson Feb. 10, talked afterward about her first meeting and what she brings to the table. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Lesher_sworn_in_as_U_regent.html .

PEOPLE: National Medal of Science awarded to alumnus Norman Borlaug; Humphrey Institute dean Brian Atwood elected to chair AFS International's trustees; new director of UMD's Alworth Institute for International Studies is William Henderson; new UMR recruiter Jade Rowland started Feb. 6; UMC named a New Student Experience and parent program coordinator, Sara Kaiser. Read these and more announcements at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Feature stories are published daily in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews .

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming the U:

THE FIRST 11 OF 34 TASK FORCES working toward transforming the U submitted recommendations that now go to senior officers and U leadership for determination of next steps. Read the recommendations at http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_final_recommendations.html .

THE TASK FORCE ON COLLEGIATE DESIGN FOR SMALL COLLEGES submitted preliminary recommendations Feb. 10. Public comment is invited through Mar. 13. The mission is creating a new model for sharing administrative functions across smaller colleges, and across departments in larger colleges, to increase cost effectiveness and cost efficiency. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_acad_sm_coll.html .

PUBLIC COMMENT is invited through Feb. 24 on the Metrics and Measurement Task Force progress report and through Mar. 6 on the Administrative Service and Productivity Steering Committee's progress and implementation priorities report. To comment, go to http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_recommendations.html .

A ONE-PAGE STRATEGIC POSITIONING PROCESS TIMELINE through May 2006 is now posted at http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/calendar.html .

University-wide:

STATE OF THE U ADDRESS: President Bruininks will deliver this year's address at the Proscenium Theater, Humanities Fine Arts, on the Morris campus. Live interactive broadcast feeds to the other campuses will be located in 100 Dowell Hall, UMC; 173 Kirby Plaza, UMD; ST108, UMR; and Coffman Union theater and 145 Peters Hall, UMTC. Mar. 2, 3 p.m.

CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE'S NEXT MEETING: All civil service staff are welcome to attend; meetings are open to the public. Feb. 23, 9 a.m.-noon, 101 Walter Library, UMTC. For more information on CSC and to view the current agenda, see http://www.umn.edu/csc .

NOMINATIONS FOR THE ANNUAL OUTSTANDING UNIT AWARD, given by the Council of Academic Professionals and Administrators (CAPA), are now being accepted. The award honors units for their achievements on behalf of academic professional and administrative (P&A) staff. Any current U employee may initiate a nomination in coordination with the unit's chief administrative officer. Deadline: Apr. 6. For more information, see http://capa.software.umn.edu/awards.html or contact Anita Cholewa at [email protected] or 612-625-0215 .

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH GRANTS provide up to $20,000 to assistant professors who have no independent funding and are engaged in cancer-related research. Deadline: Apr. 10. For more information, contact [email protected] or 612-626-1926.

REMINDER: NOMINATIONS FOR THE OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD are due Mar. 1. For more information, see the Public Engagement Web site, http://www.academic.umn.edu/system/public_engagement/ocsa_2006.html .

WANTED: ENTRIES FOR THE 2006 MAROON & GOLD AWARDS. The U Communicators Forum urges members to submit their best work in the categories of print, multimedia, campaign/series, and writing, to be considered for awards at the forum's annual conference in May. Multiple submissions welcome. Deadline: Mar. 17; enter by Feb. 28, 4 p.m., for a $10 discount on the per-entry fee. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umcf/awards .

"THE POWER OF DIVERSIFICATION," featuring a Fidelity representative, is the topic of the next program in the Brown-Bag Finance Luncheon Series. Today, noon-1 p.m., 215 Donhowe, UMTC. No registration required; all employees welcome. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits/events or call Myron Guthrie at 612-624-8550.

Crookston:

THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS FOR FALL 2006 ADMISSION IS UP 51.9% from this time last year. Applications from students out of state are up 24% and from students of color up 42%. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=236 .

A SIGNING CEREMONY FOR AN ONLINE HORTICULTURE TRAINING PARTNERSHIP will highlight a consortium of Minnesota-based agricultural and related businesses with UMC. The Minnesota Job Skills Partnership awarded the project $260,000, and classes are expected to begin later this month. Signing ceremony Feb. 17, 11 a.m., Prairie Room, Student Center. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=232 .

Duluth:

AT THE XX WINTER OLYMPIC GAMES, UMD is represented by the largest number of athletes in women's hockey--a total of 11 past, present, and newly-signed Bulldogs are skating for six nations. UMD women's hockey assistant coach Ira Turunen is chief of athlete services at the Torino Esposizino Arena. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/February/01-C.html .

"THE DEADLY EFFECTS OF TOUGHER STANDARDS: Challenging High-Stakes Testing and Other Impediments to Learning" will be presented by Alfie Kohn, author and leading critic of the focus on grades and test scores in education. Feb. 23, 1 p.m., Marshall Performing Arts Center. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/February/07.html .

Morris:

"SPIRITED LIVES: WOMEN WHO MATTERED" will be presented by Mary Kaye Medinger, founding director of Wisdom Ways Center for Spirituality, Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, as the keynote address for Women's Week. Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m., Edson Auditorium, Student Center. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=171 .

Twin Cities:

NEW McGUIRE SCHOLARSHIPS will be made to 60 low-income high school students admitted for fall 2006. If successful, the pilot will expand to 120 students by fall 2007. The gift of nearly $4 million from the William and Nadine McGuire Foundation will also enhance College of Liberal Arts efforts to prepare and retain underserved students. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2742&from=umnnews .

A FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STUDY (EIS) on the proposed on-campus football stadium has been prepared by the U as part of the planning process. The final EIS was published Feb. 13, and public comments will be accepted through Feb. 27, noon. Direct comments to Brian Swanson, U of M, 335 Morrill Hall, 100 Church St. S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55455, [email protected], or 612-625- 6665. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/stadium .

PRERETIREMENT PLANNING SEMINARS are designed to help U faculty and staff members 55 or over and their spouses and partners prepare for retirement. Seminars provide a forum with experts from the U's retirement plans, Employee Benefits, and U Retirees Association. Feb. 27 and Mar. 13, 20, and 27, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Coffman Union theater. Registration deadline: Feb. 22. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits/events or call Employee Benefits, 612-624-9090, option 2.

OPEN HOUSE AT THE USABILITY LAB: The lab helps project teams get user perspectives on how information is presented on computer screens. Tours and demos. Today, 9:30-11:30 a.m., B26 Walter Library. For more information, see http://web.umn.edu/Webteam/usability/usabilityDirections.html .

ANNUAL RESEARCH FORUM of the U chapter of Phi Delta Kappa will feature presentations by researchers in the College of Education and Human Development. Topics this year: reading instruction, child victimization, and instructional interventions. Feb. 23, 6 p.m., Ski-U-Mah Room, McNamara Alumni Center. Free and open to all. For more information, see http://events.umn.edu/event?occurrence=393100;event=112387 .

McKNIGHT SUMMER FELLOWS PRESENTATIONS will explore collective memory and cultural identity in presentations by Keith Mayes, African American and African studies (black holiday tradition in the United States); Stuart McLean, anthropology (Irish peat boglands); and Ra'anan Boustan, classical and Near Eastern studies (the Jerusalem temple). Feb. 21, 4-5:30 p.m., 125 Nolte Center.

MORE EVENTS include the Learning Abroad Fair (Feb. 15); "Reading the Bible in Nazi Germany" (Feb. 15); "Love in the New Millennium" by Wayne Caron, Family Social Science (Feb. 16); "Figment for Cello," a lecture recital in Thursdays at Four (Feb. 16); "The Politics of Infectious Diseases: Global Surveillance and Early Warning Systems" (Feb. 16-17); "Cancer and the Human Body" at the Science Museum of Minnesota (Feb. 18); "Orchid Romance" at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (Feb. 19); "From Nation to Neighborhood: Imperialism, Colonialism, and American (Indian) Studies" colloquium (Feb. 20); and "Electropolis," part of the Spark Music Festival. SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (2-22-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_2222006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 7; Feb. 22, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Features --Founders Day is Feb. 25: U celebrates 155 years. --Enterprise Financial System broadens scope, resets rollout date. --People: awards and appointments.

2. Campus Events and Information

1. Features

U FOUNDERS DAY IS FEB. 25. This year, the U celebrates 155 years since the signing of its charter during a February thaw in 1851. The founders' vision of access to higher education for all Minnesotans has been renewed through the Founders Opportunity Scholarship. At UMTC, free buttons will be distributed to students, faculty, and staff on Friday, Feb. 24, at information desks in Coffman Union, St. Paul Student Center, West Bank Skyway, and 3 Morrill Hall. Read more in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/On_this_day_in_history.html .

NEW U-WIDE ENTERPRISE FINANCIAL SYSTEM (EFS) is adding grants, projects, and contracts to its scope, pending approval by the Board of Regents, and is resetting its rollout date to 2008. Project leaders and others talk about how EFS will support U goals, the key role of "initiators" (almost everybody), financial competencies, and the "analyze phase" now in progress. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Building_a_financial_system.html .

PEOPLE: The College of Pharmacy announced the hire of Gunda Georg, a world leader in medicinal chemistry; neurology professor Karen Hsiao Ashe has received the MetLife Foundation Award for Medical Research in Alzheimer's Disease; and UMM's Doc Carlson has been inducted into the Minnesota Music Educators Association Hall of Fame. Read these and more announcements at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Feature stories are published daily in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews .

2. Campus Events and Information

Transforming the U:

THE DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT on the Metrics and Measurement task force progress report is Feb 24. Faculty and staff are urged to submit comments and feedback. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_metrics_measurement.html .

PUBLIC COMMENT is invited through Mar. 6 on the Administrative Services and Productivity steering committee's progress and implementation priorities report, and through Mar. 13 on the task force for College Design: Small Colleges. To comment, go to http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_recommendations.html .

THE FACULTY CULTURE TASK FORCE will hold its second U-wide public forum Apr. 11, 9-11 a.m. Campus locations: 101 Dowell Hall, UMC; 173 Kirby Plaza, UMD; 7 Humanities Fine Arts, UMM; 165 Peik Hall, UMTC. The task force will seek feedback from the U community on its draft recommendations, which will be available for public review and comment by the end of March. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_acad_fac_culture.html or contact Karen Zentner Bacig, [email protected] .

University-wide:

THIS YEAR'S STATE OF THE U ADDRESS at the Morris campus will be the first held outside the Twin Cities. For more information, see the news release posted at http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2767&from=umnnews .

BEAUTIFUL U DAY GRANTS FOR 36 PROJECTS U-WIDE have been awarded. They include a tree arboretum at West Central Research and Outreach Center, educational signs across a UMD trout stream, plant labels at the Perennial Study Garden at UMC, and a super-graphic courtyard garden at UMTC's Klaeber Court. Beautiful U Day 2006 events will take place on or close to Apr. 20. For more information, see http://www.buday.umn.edu .

CHILD CARE IN MINNESOTA: FORUM AND McEVOY LECTURE. A morning forum, "Using the Evidence: Policy Implications of the Latest Minnesota Child Care Research," and afternoon lecture, "Snapshot of Minnesota's Policies and Best Practices," will be presented Mar. 3, Cowles Auditorium, Humphrey Center, UMTC. Sponsored by the Center for Early Education and Development. For more information, see http://education.umn.edu/ceed/events .

REAL-ESTATE INVESTING is the topic of the last program in the Brown-Bag Finance Luncheon Series. Today, noon-1 p.m., 215 Donhowe, UMTC. No registration required; all employees welcome. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits/events or call Myron Guthrie at 612- 624-8550.

Crookston:

AN ONLINE DEGREE, BACHELOR OF MANUFACTURING MANAGEMENT, was approved by the Board of Regents Feb. 10 and now awaits accreditation by the higher learning commission. UMC is the only U campus delivering undergraduate degrees online. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=239 .

Duluth:

THREE WILDLIFE DIORAMAS with paintings by noted local artist Carl Gawboy ('65) were successfully removed intact from the Life Science Building, which is undergoing a $15.2 million renovation. The Facilities Management Department carpentry crew completed the painstaking process of removing the painted corkboard, which was fastened to plaster walls when the building was constructed in 1968. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/January/26-B.html .

Morris:

MINNESOTA'S POTENTIAL FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY will be explored in two meetings Feb. 27-28. The Advanced Wind Energy Workshop is for those interested in large, community or locally owned wind systems; Feb. 27, West Central Research and Outreach Center. The Home Grown Energy Conference, covering a wider scope of renewable energy opportunities, is for anyone interested in renewable energy; Feb. 28, UMM. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=196 or http://energy.coafes.umn.edu or call 320-589-1711.

FOR THE FIRST TIME, BOTH THE COUGAR WOMEN'S AND MEN'S BASKETBALL TEAMS have advanced to post-season play in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference Feb. 24-25. Cougar women will play Northwestern at Aberdeen; men will play St. Scholastica at Duluth. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=202 .

"CIVIL RIGHTS V. CIVIL MEMORY: Rhetorically (Re)Constituting the Civil Rights Movement" will be the Spring Speech Symposium, presented by Kirt Wilson, associate professor of communication studies, UMTC. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php? newsID=198 .

Twin Cities:

3M DONATED $1 MILLION TO RENOVATE SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY TEACHING LABS. It is the lead gift toward a $10.5 million project that aims to revolutionize dental education at the University and position the U as the best equipped school in the Big Ten. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2746&from=umnnews .

"EVALUATING TEACHING: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH," a mini-conference presented by the Center for Teaching and Learning Services, will be facilitated by Raoul Arreola, author of Developing a Comprehensive Faculty Evaluation System. He will discuss the skill sets required for teaching excellence and the roles that students, peers, and administrators can play in a fair and well- structured faculty evaluation system. Feb. 23, 1-4 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/teachlearn/evaluating .

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS: The Civil Service & Bargaining Unit (CSBU) Staff Award recognizes Twin Cities campus CSBU staff members who have made outstanding contributions to improve the work environment for CSBU employees. Deadline: Mar. 3. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/women/awards.html .

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS: The Mullen/Spector/Truax Women's Leadership Award honors a woman faculty or staff member who has made outstanding contributions to women's leadership development at UMTC. Deadline: Mar. 3. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/women/awards.html .

CALL FOR PROPOSALS: JURAN SCHOLAR GRANTS. The Juran Center for Leadership in Quality provides seed grants up to $10,000 to support faculty research in the field of quality. Grants should lead to large-grant funding from sources such as the National Science Foundation, other foundations, or corporations. Topics should address achievement and sustainability of customer preference or process excellence in organizations. Deadline: Apr. 1. For more information, see http://www.carlsonschool.umn.edu/juran or contact Jill Pearson-Wood at [email protected] or 612-626-4555.

REMEMBER: TURN OFF THE LIGHTS! Mar. 1 is the deadline to submit ideas for a logo or slogan for the campus campaign to raise awareness of energy conservation efforts and to promote greater energy-saving behavior. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Remember3A_turn_off_the_lights.html .

2006 GREAT CONVERSATIONS will begin with two pioneering environmentalists: Deb Swackhamer, codirector of the U's Water Resources Center and professor of environmental chemistry, and David Shindler, professor of ecology at the U of Alberta, Edmonton. Feb. 28, 7:30 p.m., Ted Mann Concert Hall. Future topics are affordable housing (Mar. 28), rethinking urban environments in the wake of the 2005 Gulf Coast hurricanes (May 1), and reshaping retirement (May 16). Each features a U faculty member and a guest expert. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2749&from=umnnews and http://www.cce.umn.edu/conversations/convos0506 .

"THE NECESSITY OF PUBLIC INTELLECTUALS" will be presented by sociologist, journalist, and author Todd Gitlin, Columbia U. Feb. 28, 6 p.m., theater, Coffman Union. Meetings with U departments and students are also scheduled. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2735&from=umnnews .

THE FOURTH ANNUAL SPARK FESTIVAL OF ELECTRONIC MUSIC will be presented by the School of Music Feb. 21-26, West Bank Arts Quarter. Internationally recognized scholars and performers of electronic music present lectures, performances, master classes, and multimedia installations. This year's featured guests are electronic music composition pioneer Alvin Lucier and British media artist Scanner. Most events are free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.spark.cla.umn.edu .

MOM-CAMP FOUNDERS Mary Kay DuChene and Teresa Fudenberg will present "Rejuvenation: An Adventure in You." Presented by the U Working Moms Network. Mar. 8, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., 215 Donhowe. Space is limited; register at [email protected] by Mar. 1.

DATA MINING will be the topic of an all-day open house to launch a consortium initiative and showcase U research on the topic. Yahoo! chief data officer Usama Fayyad will speak. The U has developed a critical number of faculty and graduate students working on data mining, which has important applications in industry, medicine, government, science, and engineering. Mar. 23, 9 a.m.- 3:15 p.m., 402 Walter Library, Digital Technology Center. For more information, see http://www.dtc.umn.edu/seminars/symposia/mining2006.php .

SAVE THE DATES: The U of M Alumni Association will sponsor three campus events this spring. Senior Send-Off is for undergraduate and graduate students in the Class of 2006 (Apr. 3); the Distinguished Teaching Awards ceremony will honor new recipients of the Morse-Alumni Undergraduate Teaching Award and the Graduate-Professional Teaching Award (Apr. 24); and the UMAA annual celebration will bring recently retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor (May 23). For more information, see http://www.alumni.umn.edu .

MORE EVENTS include "National Geographic LIVE!" by ecologist-explorer Michael Fay (Feb. 23); "Women and Human Rights in Latino/Latin American Political Communities" (Feb. 24); Aksharotsav 2006 by artists and volunteers from the Twin Cities-based Indian diaspora (Feb. 25); Hillel's 8th Annual Latke-Hamentash Debate (Feb. 26); "Crisis of Polling" conference (Feb. 27); "Jump at the Sun: The Life and Writings of Zora Neale Hurston" (Feb. 27); Martin Luther King III, "My Father's Dream, My Mission" (Feb. 27); Torch author Cheryl Strayed (Feb. 28); and "Developmental Neuroethics: Neuroscience, Childhood, and Society" (Mar. 1). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (3-01-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_3012006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 8; Mar. 1, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --Morris campus will host State of the U address Mar. 2. --Crookston will inaugurate fourth chancellor Mar. 3.

2. Features --"Get game, give life": U highlights need for organ donors. --People: awards and appointments.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

MORRIS IS THE SITE OF THE PRESIDENT'S STATE OF THE U ADDRESS, Mar. 2, 3 p.m., Proscenium Theater, Humanities Fine Arts Center. Live interactive broadcast feeds will be located in 100 Dowell Hall, UMC; 173 Kirby Plaza, UMD; ST108, UMR; and Coffman Union theater and 145 Peters Hall, UMTC. For more information, see the news release at http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=208 .

CROOKSTON WILL INAUGURATE ITS FOURTH CHANCELLOR MAR. 3. Events will include an academic procession, ceremony (2:30 p.m.), reception, social, dinner featuring local foods, and centennial dance in Bede Ballroom. Charles Casey is a former veterinarian, U regent, and dean and director of the Extension Service. Last week he talked about challenges ahead and why he's optimistic about UMC's future. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Envisioning_something_big.html .

2. Features

"GET GAME, GIVE LIFE." Calling attention to the need for organ donors, President Bruininks signed an organ donor card at a Gopher women's basketball game Feb. 23. Read the story and see the U's new public service announcement, "Changing Lives Through Research," in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Bruininks_signs_organ_donor_card.html .

PEOPLE: Professor Gary Goldstein received the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association's Outstanding Faculty Award. Read this and more announcements at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming the U:

THE DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT on the Administrative Services and Productivity steering committee's progress and implementation priorities report is Mar. 6. Faculty and staff are urged to submit comments and feedback. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/admin_steering_team.html .

PUBLIC COMMENT is invited through Mar. 13 on the task force report for College Design: Small Colleges. To comment, go to http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_recommendations.html .

University-wide:

A NEW SYSTEMWIDE POSITION, executive director of the Consortium for Post-Secondary Success, has been created based on recommendations of the preK-12 task force on transforming the U. The position is charged with helping to create a collaborative vision for education in which every child can be successful and a plan that addresses long-term needs of the state and regional economy. A search committee of U and community representatives has been appointed, and review of applications will begin March 10. For more information, see http://www.academic.umn.edu/system/search .

A FREE TECHNOLOGY-ENHANCED LEARNING SEMINAR to explore how the Portal has been used to facilitate the strategic positioning process, improve administrative efficiency, and support the undergraduate community will be offered by the Digital Media Center and the Office of the Vice Provost for Distributed Education. Mar. 2, noon-1:30 p.m., 155 Peters Hall. It will also be available online via Breeze Live; to participate, complete the Breeze account request form at http://dmc.umn.edu/series/tel-seminar-breeze.shtml .

PROPOSALS FOR INNOVATIONS IN GRADUATE EDUCATION are due in the Graduate School Mar. 17. Three prizes will be awarded to recognize and launch the three best ideas. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/dgs/innovation.html .

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY CELEBRATION will feature Naomi Tutu, daughter of South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu, giving the keynote address, "Women's Rights Are Human Rights." The free event brings together scholars, community activists, advocates for women's causes, and community members. Sponsored by Minnesota Advocates for Human Rights and the U's Human Rights Program. Mar. 4, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Coffman Union. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2759&from=umnnews .

Crookston:

INTERNATIONAL DINNER SERIES will feature meals planned by UMC students from Korea (Mar. 6), Ivory Coast (Mar. 20), and Russia (Mar. 27), and by the International/Multicultural Club (Apr. 5). For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=238 .

Duluth:

THE 33RD ANNUAL UMD "HEAD OF THE LAKES" JAZZ FESTIVAL will feature world-class trombonist Robin Eubanks and the UMD Jazz I Ensemble. Mar. 4, 7:30 p.m., Marshall Performing Arts Center. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/music ; for tickets, call 218-726-8877.

UMD CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY MAR. 8. Noontime events include music, poetry, speakers, information booths, and refreshments. Free and open to the public. Kirby Student Center lounge. Sponsored by the Women's Resource Center and Women's Studies Department. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/ws and http://www.d.umn.edu/mlrc/wrac or call 218-726- 8444.

Morris:

UMM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION MIDWINTER EVENT IN MINNEAPOLIS will include complimentary hors d'oeuvres and conversation. Mar. 16, 5-7 p.m., Solera's Barcelona Room, 900 Hennepin Ave. For more information or to register, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/alumni/alumniRelations/midwinter2006.html or contact [email protected] or 320-589-6066.

Twin Cities:

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: TRANSIT. With 66% of UMTC faculty, staff, and students using transit alternatives, University Services VP Kathleen O'Brien highlighted the vital importance of mass transit Feb. 27 when she joined key Twin Cities elected officials--including Congressional representatives Sabo and McCollum, mayors Rybak and Coleman, Metro Council chair Peter Bell, Ramsey County commissioner Rafael Ortega, and Hennepin County commissioner Peter McLaughlin--in urging state legislators to fund the Central Transit Corridor light rail transit line (LRT). The line will likely bisect the campus along Washington Avenue S.E. For more information, see http://www.centralcorridor.org .

"CREATING SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENTS: AFRICAN AMERICAN AND AFRICAN PERSPECTIVES, 1969 to Today" will examine the student takeover of Morrill Hall 37 years ago to demand better academic services. Six faculty and staff members and students will share views on how to use a historical perspective to provide services to students today. Mar. 7, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Black Student Union, 209 Coffman Union. To register, click on Register for Training for Global Understanding at http://www.isss.umn.edu . Workshops in this series are designed to create an opportunity for dialogue with students and to help faculty and staff increase their understanding of the U's international and multicultural communities. For more information, call 612-626-7100.

SCREENING FOR EATING DISORDERS, free and confidential, will be offered by UCCS, Boynton, STAR clinic for Eating Disorders, and the Disabled Student Cultural Center. Mar. 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 303 Coffman Union. More screenings will be offered by the STAR Clinic, Mar. 1-2, 8 a.m.-noon, 200 Oak Street, Suite 160. For more information, call 612-624-3323.

"CONSUMER CHOICES AND FOOD" will be the topic of a panel discussion including Star Tribune food critic Jeremy Iggers, Department of Philosophy faculty member Valerie Tiberius, and Program in Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Ethics director Dan Philippon. Mar. 1, 3:30-5 p.m., 208 Folwell. For more information, see http://www.philosophy.umn.edu/singer.html .

"THE KNOWLEDGE OF DEMOCRACY AND THE POLITICAL ATTITUDES OF IMMIGRANTS in the United States and Sweden" will be presented by Judith Torney-Purta, U of Maryland and a visiting scholar this year at the U's Center for Political Psychology. Presented by the Life Course Center, Department of Sociology. Mar. 6, 9-10:30 a.m., 1114 Social Sciences Building. For more information, see http://www.polisci.umn.edu and http://www.soc.umn.edu/LCC .

THE 2006 CONTEMPORARY COMPOSERS FESTIVAL will kick off the School of Music's new partnership with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and feature the music of U.S. composer Elliott Carter. Mar. 7- 12. For more information, see http://www.contemporarycomposersfestival.org .

SPRING REGISTRATION FOR MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL IS OPEN. The spring 2006 focus is on gastrointestinal issues. Mondays, Mar. 27-Apr. 24, 6-8:30 p.m., $60. For more information, see http://www.ahc.umn.edu/outreach/minimed/spring2006 .

HANDS-ON DAY AT THE U FOR HORSE OWNERS will include demonstrations, a tour, and two optional laboratory courses. Mar. 4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Animal Science/Veterinary Medicine Building, $25. For more information, see http://www.cvm.umn.edu/outreach/events/handson.html .

A PREVIEW OF "SECRET GARDENS," the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum's summer exhibition, will be part of the Minneapolis Home and Garden Show, Mar. 1-5, Minneapolis Convention Center. For more information, see http://www.arboretum.umn.edu/whtsnw/index.htm .

MORE EVENTS include "Native Women Leaders Speak About Activism," featuring Winona LaDuke and Renee Gurneau (Mar. 1); interdisciplinary visiting artist Harrell Fletcher speaking about his work (Mar. 2); Comparative and International Development Education 20th anniversary celebration and academic symposium (Mar. 3); "Taboo Tumors" half-day conference (Mar. 4); closing performance of Las Meninas (Mar. 5); "Dead Again: Jewish Burial Customs in Ancient Jerusalem" (Mar. 6); "Truth Telling in Campaign Ads," with Kathleen Hall Jamieson (Mar. 7); and the Faith and Law Lecture, "The Right to Be Wrong" (Mar. 8). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (3-08-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_3082006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 9; March 8, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --State of the U: New strategy announced to fund biomedical research infrastructure. --Regents will meet March 9-10.

2. Features and Columns --CAPA: P&A staff sick- and bereavement-leave policy changes coming. --Evaluating teaching: mini-conference summary. --People: appointments and awards.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

STATE OF THE U: A new strategy to fund Minnesota's biomedical research infrastructure at the U was announced in the State of the University address at Morris campus March 2. A proposal to create a new state bonding authority, distinct from the existing authority that funds state building projects, would provide up to $330 million that is needed to maintain Minnesota's competitiveness, President Bruininks said. If approved by the regents this week, the proposal will go to the Minnesota State Legislature. Bruininks also gave an update on the strategic positioning initiative, announced plans for an interdisciplinary institute on the environment, and commended UMM's Chancellor Schuman for visionary leadership during the past eight years. Schuman will step down June 30. For more information, including a link to the speech, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Bruininks_delivers_State_of_the_U.html .

REGENTS WILL MEET MARCH 9-10. Agenda items include review and action on the proposal to ask the legislature to create a new biomedical science bonding authority (described above); strategic positioning updates on the Crookston and Morris campuses; voting on names of two of the three colleges formed from integrating six; and more. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2794&from=umnnews .

2. Features and Columns

CAPA UPDATE: Sick- and bereavement-leave policies for academic professional and administrative (P&A) staff will be clarified due to the CAPA Benefits and Compensation Committee's work with the Office of Human Resources. The work is addressing five principles recommended by CAPA in 2003. Comments are welcome. Read the update in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Council_of_Academic_Professionals_and_Administrators/ CAPA_works_on_leave_policies.html .

EVALUATING TEACHING: How relevant are student evaluations to teaching practice? National evaluation expert Raoul Arreola shared the latest research with about 300 faculty and staff members in a campus mini-conference Feb. 23. Read a summary in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_of_Human_Resources/Evaluating_teaching.html .

PEOPLE: The Institute for Advanced Study (IAS) has announced 18 residential fellows for 2006-07, and UMM's Randi Peterson has been named women's basketball Coach of the Year by the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference. Read these and more announcements at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming the U:

THE DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT on the College Design: Small Colleges task force report is March 13. Faculty and staff are urged to submit comments and feedback. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_acad_sm_coll.html .

THE FACULTY CULTURE TASK FORCE will hold its second U-wide public forum April 11, 9-11 a.m. Campus locations: 101 Dowell Hall, UMC; 173 Kirby Plaza, UMD; 7 Humanities Fine Arts, UMM; 165 Peik Hall, UMTC. The task force will seek feedback from the U community on its draft recommendations, which will be available for public review and comment by the end of March. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_acad_fac_culture.html or contact Karen Zentner Bacig, [email protected] .

University-wide:

DEAN SEARCH: FINALIST CANDIDATE PUBLIC FORUMS BEGIN THIS WEEK for the UMTC position to lead the integrated College of Education and Human Development, Department of Family Social Science, General College, and School of Social Work. The first forum will be given by Randy Kamphaus, U of Georgia, March 9, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Radisson University Hotel, Minneapolis. A videotape will be available the next day. For more information, see http://www.education.umn.edu/employment/dean.html .

SEARCH COMMITTEE FOR DEAN of the new College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), UMTC, has been announced. It will be cochaired by deans Jeffrey Klausner, College of Veterinary Medicine, and Mary Nichols, College of Continuing Education, and includes seven faculty members, one student, and two external representatives. Provost Sullivan plans to convene and charge the committee this month. For more information, see http://www.newcollege.umn.edu .

SUCCESSFUL MANAGER'S LEADERSHIP PROGRAM for U managers begins March 21. The course provides critical leadership training within the context of U culture and community. Sponsored by the Office of Human Resources, College of Continuing Education, and Personnel Decisions International. Register by March 15. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/leadership/seminar .

CENTER FOR URBAN AND REGIONAL AFFAIRS (CURA) INVITES FACULTY from across the U to apply for the 2006-07 Fesler-Lampert Chair in Urban and Regional Affairs, an endowed, one-year position that supports research. Deadline: March 20, 4:30 p.m. For more information, see http://www.cura.umn.edu/Programs/FL-Chair/chairapp.php .

PRERETIREMENT PLANNING SEMINARS are designed for faculty and staff members and their spouses or partners, especially those 55 and over. Ask questions of experts from the U's retirement plans, Employee Benefits, and the U of M Retirees Association. March 13, 20, and 27, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Coffman Union theater. For more information, including registration materials, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits/events or call 612-624-9090, option 2.

A RETIREMENT PLANNING CALCULATOR is available to help determine whether you will have enough money to retire when you want, whether your asset mix is on target to meet goals, and how to achieve retirement savings goals. This tool is provided by Securian Retirement Services for employees in the FRP and MSRS programs. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits/retiresave .

SPRING BREAK is this week, March 6-10, for UMM, and March 13-17 for UMC, UMD, UMR, and UMTC. Campus offices will be closed for a floating holiday at UMM March 10 and at UMR and UMTC March 17.

Crookston:

NEARLY 400 ATTENDED CHANCELLOR CASEY'S INAUGURATION MARCH 3, including representatives from 18 regional colleges and universities; state Sen. LeRoy Stumpf; Regents Allen, Bohnsack, Hunter, Metzen, and Simmons; President Bruininks and several vice presidents and UMTC representatives; Chancellor Schuman, UMM; Vice Chancellor Magnuson, UMD; and Provost Carl, UMR. Festivities were deemed a great success. Casey's address is posted on the inauguration Web site under Schedule of Inaugural Events. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/chancellors-office/inauguration.htm .

BEAUTIFUL U DAY GRANTS awarded to UMC will support 11 projects including a tree nursery; tree plantings; interior projects to beautify Dowell, Hafslo, and Kiehle Halls; a perennial garden near Skyberg Hall; a sensory garden and playground for the Early Childhood Development Center; labels for the Perennial Study Garden; a horse sculpture; paving stones for tours of plantings; and a Japanese garden in the southwest corner of the mall. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=243 .

Duluth:

THE MEMORY OF WATER, winner of Shelagh Stephenson's Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy, will be presented by UMD Theatre. March 9-11 and 21-25, 7:30 p.m.; March 26, 2 p.m.; Dudley Experimental Theatre, Marshall Center for Performing Arts. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/theatre .

SUENO CON DESPERTARME (A DREAM OF AWAKENING), an exhibition by Argentinian-born artist Ana Maria Hernando, encompasses drawing, printmaking, painting, embroidery, and mixed media. Through March 19, Tweed Museum of Art. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/tma .

Morris:

MEN'S SOCCER will be added to the intercollegiate athletics program in fall 2006 in response to Minnesota youths' increased interest. It will create a new partnership with the award-winning Cougar women's soccer program. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=221 .

THE TELESCOPE will be open to the public for a special moon viewing with moon rocks on loan from NASA. March 14, 8-9:30 p.m., 4th floor, Science Building. Rain date, March 15. For more information, see http://cda.morris.umn.edu/~kearnsk/Telescope/PubObs.htm .

Twin Cities:

LIVING CLOSE TO CAMPUS, a free workshop for U faculty and staff, will be presented by architecture professor Ann Forsyth, an expert on "walkable" urban design who walks to and from work at the U. Sponsored by the Wellness and WorkLife initiatives and the Relocation Assistance Program, Office of Human Resources, and Community Relations, University Relations. March 20, noon-1:30 p.m., 210 Donhowe. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/ Office_of_Human_Resources/Living_close_to_campus.html .

GOPHER BASEBALL'S FACULTY AND STAFF APPRECIATION DAY will be April 8 at the Metrodome. Family and friends are included; kids are invited to a free baseball clinic on the field two hours before the game and to join their favorite Gopher during the national anthem. The double-header vs. U of Michigan starts at 2 p.m. The U governance Advisory Committee on Athletics subcommittee on campus and community relations partnered with the team to raise awareness of how athletics contributes to campus life. Discount tickets are available for $3 at the U Bookstore and the Mariucci Arena ticket office. To register for the children's baseball clinic, e-mail [email protected] .

THE GOPHER SPOT GAMEROOM AND CONVENIENCE STORE in the St. Paul Student Center (SPSC) will be closed for renovation March 10-Sept. 5. Beginning March 20, the convenience store will relocate across from the bookstore, carrying many of the same breakfast and lunch items. For more information, see http://www.spsc.umn.edu/gopherspot .

MARCH OPEN HOUSE AT THE USABILITY LAB: The lab helps project teams get user perspectives on how information is presented on computer screens. Tours and demos. March 14, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., B26 Walter Library. For more information, see http://web.umn.edu/Webteam/usability/usabilityDirections.html .

"THE UNIVERSAL APPEAL OF THE PARTICULAR," presented by Ruth-Ellen Joeres, professor of German and women's studies, will be the spring 2006 Ada Comstock Distinguished Women Scholars Lecture. March 21, 7:30 p.m., Cowles Auditorium, Humphrey Center. For more information, see http://events.umn.edu/event?occurrence=392445;event=112144 and http://www.gsd.umn.edu/article.php?id=195 . Register by contacting [email protected] or 612-625- 9837.

MORE EVENTS include a philosophy colloquium panel, "View of Animal Agriculture" (March 8); "The Separation of Powers--Federal, State, Local--and Environmental Public Policy," the annual Philip Raup Lecture on Land and Environmental Policy (Mar. 9); "The Social Life of Hmong Video" (March 9); "Cities of Color: The New Racial Frontier in Minority-Majority Cities" seminar (March 10); "Blue Sky, Let's Fly" faculty ballroom dance (March 11); "Keys to Supervision: An Orientation for New Supervisors and Managers at the U" (March 12); Cafe Scientifique, "Organizing Life: A New Evolution" (March 14); and the Awesome Women Celebration, part of the Diverse Connections exhibition at the Nash Gallery (March 15). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (3-15-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_3152006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 10; March 15, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Story --Board of Regents March 9-10 meeting review.

2. Features and Columns --Libraries for a new generation. --Teaching and advising award winners announced.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Story

THE BOARD OF REGENTS voted March 10 to ask the Minnesota State Legislature to create a new bonding authority, distinct from the existing authority that funds state building projects, to support biomedical research. In other business, the board heard updates on strategic positioning and results of a U of Florida national survey of research universities. In the survey, UMTC improved on five of nine key indicators. The regents also approved two new UMTC college names and a resolution in support of the Rochester Higher Education Development Committee recommendations. Read a summary in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/biomedical_initiative_top_3_public_research_universities.html .

2. Features and Columns

LIBRARIES FOR A NEW GENERATION: Campus libraries across the nation have been preparing for the Millennial or Net Gen students--those from the Class of 2000 and beyond--who are tech savvy but library newbies. In response, University Libraries are building a bridge "between the Google paradigm these students are used to and a much more sophisticated research-library approach to information." Read the story from the spring issue of M in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Libraries_for_a_new_generation.html .

2006 TEACHING AWARD WINNERS: The U's top teaching and advising award winners were announced last week. The Morse-Alumni Award for Outstanding Contributions to Undergraduate Education will go to Frederick Asher, art history; Mark Distefano, chemistry; Pareena Lawrence, economics/management, UMM; James Leger, electrical and computer engineering; Donald Liu, applied economics; Randy Moore, biology, General College; Marshall Stern, animal science; and Barbara Welke, history. Outstanding Contributions to Postbaccalaureate, Graduate, and Professional Education Award recipients are Dennis Falk, social work, UMD; Joan Garfield, educational psychology; Wendy Hellerstedt, epidemiology; Richard Leppert, cultural studies and comparative literature; Deborah Levison, public affairs; Jean O'Brien, history; and Michel Sanders, biochemistry, molecular biology, and biophysics. Teaching award recipients will be honored at a ceremony April 24 at the McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC.

2006 ADVISING AWARD WINNERS: John Tate Award recipients for excellence in undergraduate advising, UMTC, are Ted Fitch, College of Liberal Arts student services; Kitty Jones, General College student services; Alon McCormick, chemical engineering and materials sciences; and Robert Silberman, art history. Advising award recipients will be honored at a ceremony April 28 at the Radisson University Hotel.

Read more news about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

3. Campus Events and Information

University-wide:

U ALUMNI SURVEY: So far, 45,000 people have responded to the first-ever U-wide survey designed to measure the social and economic impact of alumni. The survey was mailed to 300,000 alumni in January and will gather information about professional activities and community involvement of graduates from all the U campuses. Information will be combined with other recent survey data to create the most complete picture ever of U alumni. Faculty and staff who are alumni are encouraged to complete the survey. Watch for a reminder e-mail message this week with a direct link and password to complete the survey online. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Survey_to_show_alumni_connections_and_impact.html .

NEXT CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE (CSC) MEETING will be March 30, 9 a.m.-noon, 101 Walter Library, UMTC. All civil service staff are welcome to attend; meetings are open to the public. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/csc .

FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT CLAIMS DEADLINE IS MARCH 31. To receive payment for expenses incurred through Dec. 31, 2005, employees who have health-care or dependent-care flexible- spending accounts must send claims to Employee Benefits by campus mail or postmarked by March 31. According to Internal Revenue Service regulations, funds remaining in accounts after that date will be forfeited. To check your account balance, see http://hrss.umn.edu . For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits/fsa or call Employee Benefits at 612-624-9090 or 800-756- 2363, option 3.

FIRST GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER, AND ALLIES (GLBTA) EMPLOYEE/ALUMNI Celebration Dinner will raise funds for GLBTA student scholarships and include entertainment by Theater Latte Da's Custom Cabaret. April 5, 5:30 p.m. social, 6 p.m. dinner, Riverview Gallery, Weisman Art Museum. Free and open to all U of M staff, faculty, and alumni. Register by March 27. For more information, contact 612-625-0537 or [email protected] .

THE 2006 MINNESOTA EVALUATION STUDIES INSTITUTE provides program-evaluation training for professionals and students. It addresses contemporary issues in evaluation and features national experts and practitioners. Sponsored by the Department of Educational Policy and Administration. March 22-24, pre-session workshops March 21-22, Bloomington. For more information, see http://education.umn.edu/EdPA/MESI .

ASSISTANT PROFESSORS ENGAGED IN CANCER-RELATED RESEARCH with no independent funding are invited to apply for American Cancer Society institutional research grants of up to $20,000. Deadline: April 10. For more information, contact [email protected] or 612-626-1926.

CHICANA WITHOUT APOLOGY, by Chicano studies and women's studies professor Eden Torres, is the next book selection of the Friends of Eastcliff. Torres lays the groundwork for a better understanding of the challenges posed for women of complex cultural heritages by U.S. society. Anyone may join Friends of Eastcliff; memberships support the preservation and maintenance of the historic home of the U president and gathering place for the U community. March 23, 7 p.m., Eastcliff, St. Paul. For more information, see http://www.bookstore.umn.edu/eastcliff.html .

A CONFERENCE ON LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT (LID) will kick off the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum public policy series. A leading expert on LID will discuss how to create a more economically sustainable and ecologically functional urban landscape. March 21, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, see http://www.minnehahacreek.org/lid.php .

REDEFINING AGRICULTURE is the theme of the Eighth Annual Women's Agricultural Leadership Conference. March 30, Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Early-bird registration deadline is March 22. For more information, see http://www.a2kconference.org .

THE 2006 U READS book list is now available, with 10 new titles recommended by U community members. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_Reads_20063A_10_more_books.html .

Crookston:

A THIRD ONLINE DEGREE was approved by the regents March 10. The bachelor of science in business (BSB) is a career-oriented, four-year degree. The BSB and the bachelor of manufacturing management (BMM) degrees now await Higher Learning Commission accreditation. Enrollment in the fully accredited bachelor of applied health (BAH) continues to grow. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=245 .

Duluth:

UMD OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARDS recognize major contributions of civil service, AFSCME, and academic professional and administrative staff members. The 2005-06 recipients for continuous service are Tim Bates, Stephanie Boisjoli, Kora Cavanaugh, Christine Ebert, Ginger Johnson, Steven Johnson, Jan Miller, Bonnie Peterson, Laura Piotrowski, Dan Tomhave, and Judy Zomerfelt. Project award recipients are Randy Hedin and Juline Smith, Department of Biology; James Luttinen, Department of Computer Science; John Rashid, Facilities Management; and Erik Larson and Candice Richards, Facilities Management. The awards ceremony will be March 21, 3 p.m., Kirby Student Center ballroom. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/umdhr/OSA/2005-2006.htm .

OVATION GUEST ARTIST SERIES will present pianist Olga Kern in concert. Sponsored by the Department of Music. March 21, 7:30 p.m., Weber Music Hall. Advance tickets recommended; call 218-726-8877. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/music .

Morris:

PRIDE OF THE PRAIRIE annual food expo, farmers market, and local foods meal will include a readers theater and local musicians. March 16, 2-7 p.m., Oyate Hall and Food Services. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=257 .

MORE NEWS AND EVENTS are posted on the Web at http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/ .

Twin Cities:

U RESEARCH ON DATA MINING will be showcased at an all-day open house to launch a consortium. Yahoo! chief data officer Usama Fayyad will speak. The U has developed a critical number of faculty and graduate students working on data mining, which has important applications in industry, medicine, government, science, and engineering. March 23, 9 a.m.-3:15 p.m., 402 Walter Library. Hosted by the Digital Technology Center. For more information, see http://www.dtc.umn.edu/seminars/symposia/mining2006.php .

PARTNERS IN ENGLISH: English conversation volunteers are needed to meet with international graduate students enrolled in the U's Center for Teaching and Learning Services. Individuals work individually or in pairs with students one hour a week for a semester. A training/orientation session is provided. For more information, contact Caroline Rosen at [email protected] or 612-625-3017.

ADVANTAGES OF LIVING CLOSE TO CAMPUS FOR FACULTY AND STAFF will be the focus of a workshop featuring urban design faculty member Ann Forsyth. March 20, noon-1:30 p.m., 210 Donhowe Building. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/worklife/workshops.html and click on Housing Workshops.

"GRAVITY'S COSMIC SHADOWS: A MATHEMATICAL UNVEILING," a public lecture by Duke University professor of math and physics Arlie Petters, will be presented by the Institute for Mathematics and its Applications. March 22, 7 p.m., 125 Willey Hall. For more information, http://www.ima.umn.edu/2005-2006/PUB3.22.06 .

THE ORIGINS OF THE "ILLEGAL ALIEN" in U.S. law and society will be explored in "The Meanings of Citizenship," a discussion with U of Chicago author and historian Mae Ngai. Part of the Thursdays at Four series, Institute for Advanced Study. March 23, 4 p.m., 120-125 Nolte Center. For more information, see http://ias.umn.edu/thursdays.php .

"EARLY RESEARCH MATTERS," the 2006 symposium of the Center for Early Education and Development, will include a keynote by Sen. John Hottinger, chair of the Minnesota Senate Early Childhood Finance and Policy Division. March 24, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., The Depot, Minneapolis. For more information, see http://education.umn.edu/ceed/events/ceedsymposium .

MATH/SCIENCE FAMILY FUN FAIR will feature activities, exhibits, and presentations that showcase math, science, engineering, and technology, including Physics Force: Next Generation, U departments, IT centers, IBM, and Honeywell. For students in grades 3-12 and teachers of grades 3- 6. March 25, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Coffman Union. For more information, see http://www.itcep.umn.edu/funfair .

AN INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON CINEMA AND SOCIETY IN THE ARAB WORLD will feature film screenings, guest directors, and panel discussions. March 24-26, Nicholson Hall and Oak Street Cinema. For more information, see http://www.hishambizri.com/arabfilmconf.html and http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2787&from=umnnews .

MORE EVENTS include College of Veterinary Medicine Points of Pride Research Days (ends today); St. Paul Chamber Orchestra at Ted Mann Concert Hall (March 19); "Imagine the Past: Film, Photography, and Popular Memory" (March 20); "The Universal Appeal of the Particular," by Ruth- Ellen Joeres, the spring 2006 Ada Comstock Distinguished Women Scholars Lecture (March 21); and a percussion extravaganza for CLA Night in the Arts Quarter (March 22). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (3-22-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_3222006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 11; March 22, 2006; revised 1 p.m.

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --U researchers identify cause of memory loss. --Longtime U congressional advocate Rep. Martin Sabo will retire.

2. Features and Columns --UPlan Wellness Assessment update: It's not too late to earn $65. --Civil Service Committee seeks 2006-07 representatives. --People: Luce, Goldwater, and Sullivan award winners, and more.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

U RESEARCHERS IDENTIFY CAUSE OF MEMORY LOSS: Researchers at the Medical School and the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center announced last week that, in trials with mice, they identified a substance in the brain that causes memory loss. The discovery could lead to the development of drugs to treat dementia. Lead researcher Karen Ashe credited her lab team and long-term U support. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Nabbing_the_thief_of_memory.html .

LONGTIME U.S. CONGRESSMAN AND U ADVOCATE Rep. Martin Sabo of Minneapolis announced March 18 that he will retire after 46 years in elective office--28 years in the U.S. House of Representatives and 18 in the Minnesota State Legislature. "He has been a true friend of the University," President Bruininks said. "We will miss his strong advocacy for university-based research and his ability to get things done on Capitol Hill." Sabo's district includes the east and west banks of UMTC. To read Rep. Sabo's announcement or to contact him, see http://sabo.house.gov .

2. Features and Columns

UPLAN WELLNESS ASSESSMENT: It's not too late to spring into action with Health Connections, a new approach to wellness. Two U employees talk about their experiences with the UPlan Wellness assessment. As UPlan members, employees can take advantage of financial incentives to (1) complete the online, confidential wellness assessment, (2) connect to a health coach by phone, and (3) use Web-based health improvement strategies to get fit, lose weight, eat right, manage stress, and more. Complete the wellness assessment by April 30 to earn a $65 reward. Read an update in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_of_Human_Resources/Spring_into_action.html .

CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE (CSC): Civil service representatives are now being sought to serve on the CSC and in the U Senate beginning July 1. Deadlines to apply are March 31 (priority) and April 7 (final) for the CSC and April 14 for the senate. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Civil_Service_Committee/The_CSC_wants_you.html .

PEOPLE: A UMTC CLA honors student has been named one of 18 Luce Scholars in the nation; four UMTC students have been named Goldwater Scholars; three U Sullivan Scholars have received awards for a capstone year abroad; the UMM Alumni Association Teaching Award winner for 2006 is Janet Schrunk Ericksen, associate professor of English; and 2005 UMC alum Nate Emery has won the Wildlife Society's Student Conservationist Award. Read these and more news about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming the U:

THE TASK FORCE ON COLLEGE DESIGN: SMALL COLLEGES has posted its revised recommendations. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_acad_sm_coll.html .

THE TASK FORCE ON COLLEGE DESIGN: SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING will hold two public forums at UMTC: April 4, 9-11 a.m., 2-122 Molecular and Cellular Biology; and April 21, 3:30-5:30 p.m., Cargill Building for Microbial and Plant Genetics. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_acad_sci_eng.html .

THE RESEARCH TASK FORCES ON INFRASTRUCTURE AND COLLABORATION will hold two public forums at UMTC: April 12, 10-11:30 a.m., Johnson Room, McNamara Alumni Center; and April 21, 8:30-10 a.m., Cherrywood Room, St. Paul Student Center. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_research_infra.html and http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_research_collab.html .

THE FACULTY CULTURE TASK FORCE will hold its second U-wide public forum April 11, 9-11 a.m. Campus locations: 101 Dowell Hall, UMC; 173 Kirby Plaza, UMD; 7 Humanities Fine Arts, UMM; 165 Peik Hall, UMTC. The task force will seek feedback from the U community on its draft recommendations, which will be available for public review and comment between April 6 and May 5. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_acad_fac_culture.html or contact Karen Zentner Bacig, [email protected] .

University-wide:

PUBLIC FORUM IN SEARCH FOR VP FOR ACCESS, EQUITY, AND MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS: Faculty, staff, and students are invited to attend a forum and reception to meet finalist Nancy "Rusty" Barcelo, U of Washington vice president and vice provost for minority affairs and diversity. She will speak on "The Role of Diversity and Multiculturalism in a 21st Century Research University: A Vision and Strategies for Achieving Excellence." March 27, public forum 3-4 p.m., reception 4-4:30 p.m., Radisson University Hotel, Humphrey Room (second floor), 615 Washington Ave. S.E., Minneapolis. For more information, see http://www.academic.umn.edu/system/vpsearch . The forum will also be video-streamed at http://gophertv.umn.edu .

FSUN GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING: Financial Systems User Network board of directors reminds members of the 24th general membership meeting. April 6, Great Hall, Coffman Union; also via Breeze Web cast. Register by March 31. For more information, including membership, see http://www.fss.umn.edu/FSUN/FSUN_home.htm .

Crookston:

THE UMC TEAM TOOK FIRST at the Mid-America Collegiate Horticulture Society (MACHS) 2006 competition hosted by the U of Illinois-Urbana March 15-18. The team of four students took a written exam, judged horticulture crops, and identified herbaceous and woody plants. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=247 .

Duluth:

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER Ann Bancroft will present "Skiing Antarctica's Landmass" as the inaugural Ben and Jeanne Overman Distinguished Speakers lecture. In 2001, Bancroft and Liv Arnesen were the first women in history to ski across Antarctica. Free and open to the public. March 29, 4 p.m., Weber Music Hall; refreshments follow. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/March/02.html or call 218-726-8993.

THE DISPASSIONATE BODY: Paintings and Drawings of Figures in Still Life, an acclaimed exhibit by Philip Pearlstein, will be presented by the Tweed Museum of Art (TMA) March 23-Oct. 15, Sax Gallery. Events will include a lecture by Pearlstein and opening reception, March 23, 6 and 7:30 p.m., in the gallery, and a lecture by art critic Edward Lucie-Smith, March 24, 6 p.m., TMA. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/tma .

Morris:

THE CHANCELLOR SEARCH COMMITTEE expects full-day candidate visits to be scheduled March 29- April 7. Details will be released as finalists are identified and dates firm. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/chansearch .

MORE NEWS AND EVENTS are posted on the Web at http://www.morris.umn.edu/events/Headliners/NewsAndEvents.php .

Twin Cities:

UMTC VOICEMAIL SYSTEM will cut over to the new Gopher Messaging Voicemail system March 26. It is important that all UMTC users set up their new voicemail boxes before the cutover date. For instructions, see http://www.umn.edu/nts . For an online Breeze presentation, see https://breeze5.umn.edu/p11905370 . For free voicemail orientation classes at the U Technology Training Center, see https://uttc.umn.edu/training .

NEW MASTER OF ACCOUNTANCY PROGRAM will begin in fall 2006 in response to legislation that requires accountants to have 150 semester hours of training (30 hours more than currently) to be certified in Minnesota. For more information, see http://carlsonschool.umn.edu/macc .

UMTC IS ONE OF 22 SITES that will host "What Is Your Health Worth? A National Conversation on Health Care." Sponsors include the School of Public Health. March 22, 5:30-8:30 p.m., 5-125 Moos Tower. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Health_care3A_public_pipes_in.html .

NOMINATIONS FOR THE COLLEGE OF CONTINUING EDUCATION (CCE) Distinguished Teaching Award are due May 15. The annual award carries a $2,000 honorarium and recognizes outstanding teaching or academic leadership through CCE. For more information, call 612-625-0238 or contact Kay Cooper at [email protected] or 612-625-1206.

U LIBRARIES WILL CELEBRATE the acquisition of the personal and teaching papers of English professor and poet Michael Dennis Browne. March 23, 7:30 p.m., Andersen Library. For more information about the literary manuscripts collections, see http://special.lib.umn.edu/manuscripts/literary.html .

"ETHICS AND ANIMALS," a lecture by Peter Singer, one of the most influential living philosophers, will be presented by the Department of Philosophy and many other sponsors. March 23, 7-9 p.m., Ted Mann Concert Hall; reception follows. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.philosophy.umn.edu/singer.html .

"REFRAMING SCHOLARSHIP IN THE GLOBAL ERA: Questions of Nation and Place" will be a conference for students, faculty members, and anyone interested in globalization. March 24-25, Minnesota Population Center, 50 Willey Hall. For more information, see http://www.cla.umn.edu/american/Reframing Conference.html .

GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCH PAPER POSTER COMPETITION features posters designed to communicate scientific discoveries to an educated general audience. Meet with more than 30 top graduate students in more than 20 fields. March 27, 1-5 p.m., Great Hall, Coffman Union. Free, sponsored by Sigma Xi's U of M chapter.

"HEALTHY FOODS IN MINNEAPOLIS URBAN COMMUNITIES: Economic, Policy, and Community Strategies to Improve Health Food Access" will be the topic of a free public symposium. A panel of U researchers and community leaders will share experiences in relevant areas of research, programs, business, and policy. March 28, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, 3355 N. 4th Street, Minneapolis. For more information, see http://www.ahc.umn.edu/news/releases/healthyfoods032006/home.html .

McKNIGHT SUMMER FELLOWS PRESENTATIONS will feature Antigone Nounou, "Scientific Explanation and Scientific Understanding: Lessons to Learn From the Weak and the Strong"; Andrea Stanislav, "'String Theory' Video and Sound Components"; and John Wright, "Shadowing Ellison: Explorations in Art, Freedom, and Technologies of the Spirit." March 28, 3:30-5 p.m., library, Nolte Center.

"AMERICA'S PROMISE REALIZED: GETTING BEYOND RACE," about why colleges and universities must move beyond racial and gender preferences in their admissions policies, will be presented by Ward Connerly, founder and president, American Civil Rights Institute, and former member, U of California Board of Regents. March 29, 12:15-1:30 p.m., 25 Mondale Hall. Free and open to the public; pizza provided. For more information, see http://events.tc.umn.edu/event.xml? occurrence=394160 or contact [email protected] .

RELAY FOR LIFE: The U community is invited to celebrate cancer survivors, and honor those who have died, with an all-night fund-raiser for the American Cancer Society. Teams of 8-15 take turns walking or running around a track throughout the night. April 21, 7 p.m., to April 22, 7 a.m., U of M Fieldhouse. Register by March 31. For more information, see http://www.acsevents.org/relay/mn/uofm .

MORE EVENTS include Peacekeepers and the Women in the Reel Dames film series (March 22); William Swanson, author of Dial M: The Murder of Carol Thompson (March 23); Cinema and Society in the Arab World symposium and film event (March 23-26); 20th annual Sugarbush Pancake Brunch and maple syrup tours at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (March 25-26); an evening with justice activist Margaret Randall, including a film about her life (March 27); "The Future of Affordable Housing," a Great Conversation (March 28); national debut of The New Medicine documentary on PBS (March 29); and Grad Fest (March 29-30). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (3-29-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_3292006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 12; March 29, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --Bonding bill passed by state senate; house begins hearings. --Gopher stadium funding plan approved by regents.

2. Features and Columns --McKnight Land-Grant Professor will research war's impact on democracies. --People: 2006 Distinguished McKnight Professors, and more.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

BONDING BILL PASSED BY STATE SENATE; HOUSE BEGINS HEARINGS. The Minnesota Senate approved a state capital bonding bill March 23 that includes $152.7 million in state funding for the U: HEAPR, $40 million (U request was $80 million); Carlson School of Management, $13.3 million (U request was $26.6 million); Labovitz School of Business and Economics, $15.3 million; science teaching and student services center, $41.3 million; medical bioscience building, $40 million; and research centers and field stations, $2.8 million. The house is expected to take action on its version of a capital bonding bill this week. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/urelate/govrel .

GOPHER STADIUM FUNDING PLAN ADVANCES: The Board of Regents approved a new plan March 27 that would provide more state money for a UMTC stadium in exchange for a parcel of UMore Park in Rosemount, which would be set aside for a state-owned nature reserve. The plan went to the legislature March 28 for immediate consideration. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Proposed_deal_with_state_would_increase_funding_for_stadium.html .

2. Features and Columns

McKNIGHT LAND-GRANT PROFESSOR WILL RESEARCH WAR'S IMPACT ON DEMOCRACIES: Just as his book on military service and the rights of citizenship is about to be published, assistant professor Ron Krebs is embarking on an even more ambitious project. A two-year professorship for young faculty members engaged in critical research will help to make it possible. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Musty_archives_shed_light.html .

PEOPLE: 2006 DISTINGUISHED McKNIGHT PROFESSORS are John Bischof, mechanical engineering; Karin Musier-Forsyth, chemistry; Ilja Siepmann, chemistry; and Christopher Uggen, sociology. Read this and more news about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming th U:

SEE THE SCHEDULE FOR MORE CONSULTATION SESSIONS and reports at http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning .

University-wide:

MORRIS CAMPUS CHANCELLOR SEARCH: PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS BY FOUR CANDIDATES will begin next week. Candidates are Beth Barnett, U of Scranton (April 5); Jacqueline Johnson, Buena Vista U (April 10); John Miller, Eastern Oregon U (April 12); and Frank Cassell, U of Pittsburgh at Greensburg (April 17). Each date includes presentations at 3 p.m., Oyate Hall, and 5:30 p.m., Stevens County Historical Society. Candidates will be at UMTC April 7, 12, 14, and 19. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/chansearch .

ASSOCIATE VP FOR INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS SEARCH: Faculty, staff, and students are invited to public forums with finalists for the U-wide position to promote and support global dimensions of teaching, research, and engagement and provide administrative oversight for the Office of International Programs and its four units. Finalists are Dennis Jett, U of Florida, April 6, 2-3 p.m.; and Riall Nolan, Purdue U, April 12, 2:15-3:15 p.m. Both presentations will be in 2-206 Carlson School of Management; candidates will speak on "Global Education Strategies for a Public University." A videotape for online viewing will be available at http://gophertv.umn.edu . For more information, see http://www.academic.umn.edu/system/vpsearch .

DEAN SEARCH: FINALIST CANDIDATE PUBLIC FORUMS CONTINUE THIS WEEK for the UMTC position to lead the integrated College of Education and Human Development, Department of Family Social Science, General College, and School of Social Work. A public forum will be given by Darlyne Bailey, Columbia University, March 31, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Presidents Room, Coffman Union. A videotape will be available April 3. For more information, see http://www.education.umn.edu/employment/dean.html .

SPLIT ROCK ARTS PROGRAM will offer 47 summer workshops in creative writing, visual art, design, and enhancing creativity at the Cloquet Forestry Center and in the Twin Cities. Registration is now open. For more information, see http://www.cce.umn.edu/splitrockarts .

GLOBAL HEALTH COURSE: A diploma in clinical tropical medicine and travelers' health will prepare health care providers, medical students, and graduate students to work in global health. Offered by several U units and the Centers for Disease Control. July 5-Aug. 25. For more information, see http://www.medres.umn.edu/medres/program/globalhealthcourse.html or contact Holly Heisler at [email protected] or 612-625-3268.

Crookston:

RESERVATIONS FOR THE NEW CENTENNIAL HALL, now under construction, will open in April. The new residence hall is located south of the mall, near the athletic fields, and is designed to blend into the historical character of UMC. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=248 .

Duluth:

LANGUAGES OF SIX CONTINENTS, an exhibit from the rare collection of the Ramseyer-Northern Bible Society Museum Collection, now on display in the library, includes examples of many unusual Bibles in 26 languages. Through July 31. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/lib/display or 218-726-8102.

HISTORIC GLENSHEEN ESTATE has announced Saturday and Sunday tours through May 26. Tours begin at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/glen/glenda.htm or 218-726-8921.

Morris:

"EMPOWERING WOMEN IN A GLOBALIZED WORLD," a lecture by associate professor of philosophy Christine Koggel, Bryn Mawr College, will introduce the topic of the 30th Midwest Philosophy Colloquium. Panelists will include UMM's Pareena Lawrence, economics and management; Lory Lemke, adjunct lecturer in philosophy; and student James Gambrell, moderator. April 3, 7 p.m., Federated Church, 200 S. Columbia Avenue, Morris. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=272 .

Twin Cities:

HOST HOMES NEEDED: The Minnesota Agricultural Student Trainee (MAST) program seeks families or individuals to host college-age international students April 8-12 while they attend orientation at UMTC in St. Paul. No special skills or planned activities are necessary. Students need room and board for 3-4 nights and transportation to and from the campus in St. Paul. The MAST orientation schedule works well with the U's work schedule. For more information, call Sue at 612-624-2732 or see http://mast.coafes.umn.edu .

AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR Nicholas Delbanco, who directs the U of Michigan MFA writing program, will read from his work as part of the Edelstein-Keller Visiting Writer Series. March 29, 7:30 p.m., Weisman Art Museum.

THE McEVOY LECTURE ON EARLY CHILDHOOD AND PUBLIC POLICY, a moderated panel of policymakers held March 3, will be broadcast March 29, 8:30-10 p.m., local television channel 6. For more information, see http://education.umn.edu/CEED or call 612-626-8723.

"DRAWN TO NATURE" OPEN HOUSE: More than 200 original artworks by some of best nature artists in the country, including Minnesota's Jim Brandenburg, will be available for purchase at an open house featuring 20 guest artists. March 31, 3-4:30 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center. Free refreshments. Sponsored by the Bell Museum of Natural History. For more information, see http://www.bellmuseum.org .

TRAINING FOR GLOBAL UNDERSTANDING: SOUTH ASIAN COMMUNITY. South Asians now make up 25% of U.S. doctors and 20% of IT professionals. Learn about core values and social norms of the region, interesting facts about South Asia, and experiences of South Asian students on campus. Third in a series sponsored by U international and multicultural offices. April 4, 9-11 a.m., 110 Heller Hall. For more information, see http://www.isss.umn.edu and click on "Register for Training for Global Understanding."

FINANCING A HOME 101: The Twin Cities median home price tag is now $202,000. This WorkLife Effectiveness Program workshop includes financing options, computing monthly payments, location, size, availability, credit, and owning vs. renting. April 4, noon-1 p.m., 210 Donhowe Building. To register, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/worklife/workshops.html .

YEAR-END CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY-UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIPS will highlight public engagement activities across the campus. Displays will feature examples of service learning, internships, community-based research, public education projects, and more. Free; refreshments will be served. April 5, 4-6 p.m., Great Hall, Coffman Union. For more information, contact [email protected] .

"LEADERSHIP IN GLOBAL HEALTH: Prognoses and Performance" will feature Sheila Leatherman, U of North Carolina, and Senior VP Cerra examining how global trends including terrorism, consumer expectations, and new technology affect modern health care. Registration limited to 120. April 6, 3:30-5:30 p.m., Radisson University Hotel. For more information, see http://www.hsr.umn.edu/mha/alumni/lcs2005 .

CHICAGO CLIMATE EXCHANGE CEO Richard Sandor, Northwestern U, will speak on "The Convergence of Environmental and Capital Markets" in a series sponsored by a consortium on life sciences and law. April 11, 12:15-1:30 p.m., Mississippi Room, Coffman Union. Register by April 4 to [email protected] or 612-625-0055. For more information, see http://www.lifesci.consortium.umn.edu .

PLANT SALE, sponsored by the CBS Greenhouse and plant biology phytograds, will feature herbs, orchids, Easter plants, carnivorous plants, and succulents. April 5-6, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., St. Paul Student Center.

ALUMNI CELEBRATION UPDATE: Tickets to hear former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor at the annual alumni celebration May 23 are still available. But dinner tickets have already sold out, so the Campus Club is offering a special dinner to meet the demand for dining on campus that evening. For more information, see http://www.alumni.umn.edu/OConnor .

HOME BY THE U: Read a review of the March 20 workshop on living close to the U, with highlights of five Minneapolis neighborhoods next to the Twin Cities campus, at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Home_by_the_U.html .

GOPHER WOMEN'S HOCKEY TEAM came within a game of winning a third straight national title March 26. A "three-peat" by the Gophers would have matched the accomplishment of the UMD Bulldogs, who won the first three Frozen Four titles in 2001, 2002, and 2003. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Women27s_hockey_team_falls_just_short_of_threepeat.html .

MORE EVENTS include the Guerrilla Girls, feminist masked avengers exposing sexism, racism, and corruption in arts and culture (March 29); Grad Fest (March 29-30); "Poetry of Witness/Poetry as Witness" with John Gery, U of New Orleans, and Biljana Obradovic, Xavier U (March 30); screening and discussion of a new film, Darfur Diaries: Message From Home (March 31); public reception for five MFA artists' exhibition at the Nash Gallery (March 31, show through April 20); College of Veterinary Medicine/Raptor Center spring open house (April 2); UMM professor and author Vincente Cabrera (April 3); National Public Health Week film festival at Mayo Auditorium (April 3-7); The Secret Supper author Javier Sierra (April 4); and "Ethical Quandaries in End-of-Life Research," a School of Nursing lecture (April 5). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (4-05-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_4052006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 13; April 5, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --Floods in northwest Minnesota prompt UMC and U of M Extension Service response. --U lobby day at the Capitol is April 6.

2. Features and Columns --Spotlight on one of the U's 15 distinguished teachers for 2006. --People: Truman Scholars, NEH award winners, Twin Cities International Citizen Award, and a fine arts faculty appointment for UMR.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

FLOOD RESPONSE: UMC students filled and placed sandbags for up to seven hours April 1, strengthening dikes in Crookston as the Red Lake River rose. Lysaker Gymnasium served as an emergency shelter when the city called for voluntary evacuations in several neighborhoods. The U of M Extension Service launched a Web site April 3 to help people handle flood response, cleanup, and safety issues. The Red River is expected to crest tomorrow 19 feet above flood stage in the Grand Forks area, about 25 miles from UMC. For more information, see "Spring Floods" at http://www.extension.umn.edu and http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=2866&from=umnnews .

U LOBBY DAY AT THE CAPITOL IS APRIL 6. Students, faculty and staff members, alumni, and U supporters from across the state are invited to St. Paul to encourage legislators to support the U's capital request. The day begins at 1:30 p.m. with a rally in the rotunda, followed by meetings with legislators and a dinner reception in the State Capitol Great Hall. Buses will travel from UMC, UMD, and UMM; at UMTC, buses will run between Coffman Union and the St. Paul Student Center and the Capitol, 12:30-5:30 p.m. Register by noon today. For more information about transportation to and from the Capitol, contact the Legislative Network, [email protected] . See also http://ga4.org/u_of_m_leg_net/events/lobbyday_06/details.tcl .

2. Features and Columns

SPOTLIGHT ON A DISTINGUISHED TEACHER: From Morris, Minnesota, to Delhi, India, Pareena Lawrence makes learning economics fun for her students at UMM. She is one of 15 U faculty members honored this year for outstanding contributions to undergraduate, graduate, and professional education. The U community is invited to the 2006 Distinguished Teaching Awards ceremony April 24, 3:30-6 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC. Registration is requested. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Making_economics_fun.html .

PEOPLE: Truman Scholars include U honor students Rebecca Mitchell and Joseph Walla, CLA, UMTC; professors Timothy Brennan and Shaden Tageldin, CLA, UMTC, have received summer stipends from the National Endowment for the Humanities; China Center director Hong Yang will receive the area International Immigrant Achievement Award; and Miranda Edel, appointed at UMD, will teach fine arts at UMR this fall. Read this and more news about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming the U:

PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS FROM 10 MORE STRATEGIC POSITIONING TASK FORCES are now available for review. They are (1) graduate reform: discipline evolution, (2) college design: science/engineering, (3) college design: College of Liberal Arts, UMTC, (4) Academic Health Center (AHC) precinct plan, (5) AHC knowledge management technology, (6) health professional workforce, (7) clinical sciences enterprise, (8) research infrastructure, (9) collaborative research, and (10) metrics and measurement. This brings the number of task force reports submitted since last September to 29. For a brief review of these 10 preliminary recommendation reports, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Next_wave_of_transforming_the_U_recommendations_are_posted.html .

THE FACULTY CULTURE TASK FORCE will hold its second U-wide public forum April 11, 9-11 a.m. Campus locations: 101 Dowell Hall, UMC; 173 Kirby Plaza, UMD; 7 Humanities Fine Arts, UMM; 165 Peik Hall, UMTC. The task force seeks feedback from the U community on its draft recommendations, which will be available for public review and comment between April 6 and May 5. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_acad_fac_culture.html or contact Karen Zentner Bacig, [email protected] .

THE TASK FORCE ON GRADUATE REFORM: DISCIPLINE EVOLUTION will hold public forums to gather feedback from the U community. April 13, 3-4 p.m., 100 Murphy Hall, UMTC; April 14, 1:30-2:30 p.m., 165 Peik Hall, UMTC; and 173 Kirby Plaza, UMD, by interactive TV. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_acad_grad_discip.html .

University-wide:

THE BENEFITS ADVISORY COMMITTEE SEEKS COMMENTS from U faculty and staff about experiences with their health plans as well as the pharmacy benefits manager, Rx America, and the wellness and health improvement vendor, Harris HealthTrends, so far in 2006. Deadline: April 28. Comments will be confidential. Contact the appropriate person, listed here, with your comments. U Classic Plus by Health Partners: Joe Jameson, [email protected] or 612-625-4399. Medica Choice Regional, Medica Choice National, and Medica Direct: Peh Ng, [email protected] or 320-589-6318. Medica Elect & Essential and Insights by Medica: Karen Wolterstorff, [email protected] or 612-624- 5032. RxAmerica and Harris HealthTrends: Gavin Watt, [email protected] or 612-625-6614. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/usenate/committees/bac.html or UPlan information at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/eb .

FACULTY INTERACTIVE RESEARCH PROGRAM GRANTS promote faculty projects that involve public policy and include interaction and engagement with Minnesota groups, agencies, or organizations involved with the issue. Deadline: April 13. Sponsored by the Center for Urban and Regional Affairs. For more information, see http://www.cura.umn.edu/Programs/FIRP/announce.html .

INTERNATIONAL STUDIES: FACULTY RESEARCH CIRCLE GRANTS will support collaborative, interdisciplinary work on current and critical global issues. Circles can include U faculty, graduate students, and scholars from institutions abroad with whom the U has or is developing a partnership. Proposals due April 20 to the Interdisciplinary Center for the Study of Global Change and the Office of the Vice President for Research. For more information, see http://www.icgc.umn.edu/ResearchCirclesII.htm or contact [email protected] or 612-624-0832.

SPONSORED PROJECTS ADMINISTRATION (SPA) DEADLINE POLICY: Beginning May 1, SPA will enforce its policy requiring principal investigators to deliver proposals to SPA at least 24 hours before a sponsor's submission deadline. For more information, see http://www.ospa.umn.edu/policiesandprocedures/24hourdeadline.html .

ELDER CARE SERIES: "Cooperative Caregiving," sixth in the series of programs, will address how adult siblings and other caregivers can find common ground in caring for an elderly family member. April 6, noon-1 p.m. Campus locations: 215 Donhowe and 155 Peters Hall, UMTC; by interactive TV at UMD, UMM, and UMR. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/worklife/workshopsandcourses.html or contact the WorkLife Effectiveness program, [email protected] or 612-626-0774.

PUCCINI'S LA BOHEME, classic tale of tragic love, will be presented in a collaboration of the UMD School of Fine Arts and the UMTC School of Music. April 6-9, Ted Mann Concert Hall, UMTC. Tickets $17, 612-624-2345 or at the door. April 18-20, Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center. For more information, see http://www.music.umn.edu and http://www.d.umn.edu/music/events/calendar/maraprmay.html#laboheme .

THE 2006 OBERSTAR FORUM, "Transportation Choices: The Important Role of Walking and Biking," will feature Berthold Tillmann, mayor, Munster, Germany, and Rep. James Oberstar, Eighth Congressional District, instrumental in securing Minnesota's Non-Motorized Transportation Pilot Program. April 10, 12:30-4:30 p.m., Coffman Union, UMTC. For more information, see http://www.cts.umn.edu/events/oberstarforum .

"BIOTECHNOLOGY AND RENEWABLE ENERGY IN CHINA AND THE UNITED STATES" is the topic of a conference featuring the top China official on biotechnology, Wang Hongguang, as well as Sen. Norm Coleman and other leading China and Minnesota officials. April 12, 8:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m., St. Paul Student Center. Free; sponsored by the U's Initiative for Renewable Energy and the Environment (IREE) and other groups. For more information, including a webcast, see http://www.umn.edu/iree/events.html .

Crookston:

THE UMC EQUESTRIAN TEAM placed second overall in an on-campus, intercollegiate horse show March 25-26. At regional competition in River Falls, April 1-2, sophomores Shannon Shoenberger and Caroline Sneve advanced to the next level, to be held in Indiana April 8-9. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=250 .

Duluth:

SIX ENGINEERING STUDENTS took three first-place awards in the Clean Snowmobile Challenge, an intercollegiate engineering design competition sponsored by the Society of Automotive Engineers last month. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/April/03-B.html .

"HIDING IN THE OPEN," by Sabina Zimering, Holocaust survivor, author, and retired physician, will be the Baeumler-Kaplan Holocaust Commemoration Lecture. April 6, 4 p.m., Weber Music Hall. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/March/22- B.html .

"A TAKEN SCANDAL, NOT A GIVEN: MILTON, SATAN, AND DISSENT," by Victoria Silver, U of California, Irvine, and based on Milton's Paradise Lost, will be the seventh annual Jankofsky Lecture. April 7, 3 p.m., Tweed Museum of Art. Free and open to the public; a reception will follow.

Morris:

THE 28TH ANNUAL JAZZ FEST will feature UMM's internationally renowned jazzers, two guest artists, and more than 900 visiting high school musicians. Clinics and performances will also showcase the West Central All Stars and UMM Alumni Jazz Band. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=266 .

Rochester:

NATIONAL PUBLIC HEALTH CARE WEEK FORUM for health science and medical students will expand awareness of health-care disparities. The interactive program will include a presentation by Mitchell Davis, Jr., director, Office of Minority and Multicultural Health, Minnesota Department of Health. April 6, 6-9 p.m., Kahler Grand Hotel, Rochester. Sponsored by Mayo Medical School, Olmsted County Public Health Services, and UMR. For more information, see http://www.r.umn.edu/05_prog_noncredit.htm#Health .

Twin Cities:

A CELEBRATION OF THE COLLEGE OF HUMAN ECOLOGY'S 106-year legacy will include a reunion and storytellers gathering, April 7, 3-5 p.m., and a gala reception with music, dancing, displays, and tours, 5:30-8 p.m. More than 20,000 alumni and friends have been invited. CHE is preparing to move its four academic departments into new collegiate homes by July 1. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2850&from=umnnews .

THE CARLSON SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT unveiled the design for its new undergraduate building on Riverside Avenue and announced it would be named Hanson Hall after alumnus and donor Herbert Hanson. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=2851&from=umnnews .

THE SCHOOL OF JOURNALISM AND MASS COMMUNICATION WILL HOST 12 journalists from western Africa April 5-13 as part of the U.S. Department of State's Edward R. Murrow Program. A reception will be held April 6, 3:30 p.m., 100 Murphy Hall. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2857&from=umnnews .

IVORY TOWER, the U's undergraduate art and literary magazine of the '50s and '60s, is back. A celebration sponsored by the English department will include special guests and former contributors, contest winners, a student art exhibit and reading, free refreshments, and magazines. April 10, 7 p.m., Bell Museum of Natural History. For more information, see http://www.ivorytower.umn.edu .

AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR T. C. Boyle, professor, U of Southern California, will give the Esther Freier Endowed Lecture. April 11, 7:30 p.m., Ted Mann Concert Hall. Reception and book signing follows. For more information, see http://english.cla.umn.edu .

APRIL IS SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH. The Aurora Center for Advocacy and Education is sponsoring events including Take a Walk in Her Shoes (April 6), Searching for Angela Shelton (April 11 and 14), "Men Ending Rape" (April 19), and more. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/aurora .

MORE EVENTS include "Would Ataxia Revise Abraham Lincoln's Legacy? Perspectives from History, Disability Studies, and Constitutional Law" (April 5); "Libraries and U Presses in an Amazoogle Age" (April 6); "The Heart of a Woman" health conference with Minnesota first lady Mary Pawlenty (April 6); Life Course Center's 20th Anniversary Celebration (April 7); Faculty and Staff Appreciation Day at the Metrodome, Gopher Baseball vs. Michigan (April 8); "Beyond the Cure," an educational event for childhood cancer survivors (April 8); "Bear Island," a conversation with Gerald Vizenor (April 10); Cafe Scientifique: Superhero Science with James Kakalios (April 11); McKnight Summer Fellows Lauren Monroe, Andrew Gallia, and Oliver Nicholson on topics in classics and Near Eastern studies (April 12); and Maid in America film and discussion (April 12). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (4-12-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_4122006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 14; April 12, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --The U's first VP for access, equity, and multicultural affairs will be Nancy "Rusty" Barcelo, beginning May 15. --U Lobby Day draws statewide support.

2. Features and Columns --Facebook: U advises discretion. --CAPA update: annual celebration scheduled for May 19. --People: Josie R. Johnson Human Rights and Social Justice Award winners.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

THE U'S FIRST VP FOR ACCESS, EQUITY, AND MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS will be Nancy "Rusty" Barcelo, President Bruininks announced last week. Barcelo formerly served at the U as associate VP for multicultural and academic affairs, 1996-2001, and headed the Chicano studies department, 1999-2001. She has served as VP and vice provost for minority affairs and diversity at the U of Washington since 2001. In her new position, Barcelo will be responsible for developing and implementing a systemwide strategic plan for access, equity, and multicultural affairs. Pending approval by the Board of Regents, the appointment will begin May 15. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2872&from=umnnews .

U LOBBY DAY: Busloads of UMC, UMD, and UMM students, faculty, and staff members arrived at the Capitol April 6, along with more from UMTC, to meet with legislators and advocate for the U's 2006 capital request. The House of Representatives is expected to vote on the bonding bill today. Faculty and staff can support legislation for U capital improvements by contacting legislators. For more information, including an easy way to e-mail your representatives, see http://ga4.org/campaign/capitalrequest2006 .

2. Features and Columns

FACEBOOK: Millions of college students are using Facebook's Web site to socialize with peers far and wide. But what happens when information on their pages becomes too revealing? U leaders are urging discretion and working on guidelines for incoming students. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/When_Facebook_becomes_too_revealing.html .

CAPA UPDATE: The annual celebration of systemwide academic professional and administrative (P&A) staff, sponsored by the Council of Academic Professionals and Administrators (CAPA), will be May 19, 11:30-1 p.m., Northrop plaza, UMTC. Register now to attend. Read the preview in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/ Council_of_Academic_Professionals_and_Administrators/CAPA_celebration_2006.html .

PEOPLE: Josie R. Johnson Human Rights and Social Justice Award winners for 2006 are staff member Grant Anderson, residential life coordinator, and student Ora Hokes, a member of the Black Graduate and Professional Student Association. Read this and more news about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming th U:

FACULTY CULTURE TASK FORCE DRAFT RECOMMENDATIONS are now available for public review and comment through May 5. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_acad_fac_culture.html .

UPCOMING FORUMS AND CONSULTATIONS are scheduled for several task forces: research task forces on infrastructure and collaboration (today and April 21); graduate reform: discipline evolution (April 13 and 14); collegiate design: science and engineering, UMTC (April 21); and collegiate design: College of Liberal Arts, UMTC (April 26). For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/events.php .

University-wide:

SECOND ANNUAL MINNESOTA CUP will include a student category. U faculty and staff are also encouraged to apply. The competition to reward innovative and promising business ideas gives a top prize of $25,000 and free support for developing the idea. Entrepreneur forum with tips and information will be April 17, 3-4:30 p.m., Carlson School of Management auditorium, UMTC. Competition deadline: May 26. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/ Minnesota_Cup_expands_to_include_more_student_participation.html .

"DAYS OF EXPLORATION: PATHWAYS TO HEALTH IN A CHANGING WORLD" is the theme of four events, for health care professionals and the public, sponsored by the School of Nursing and the Center for Spirituality and Healing. School of Nursing Research Day (April 21); Florence Nightingale Celebration (April 23); "Healing Environments: What Do We Mean?" by Barbara Dossey, followed by a tour of Woodwinds Health Campus (April 24); and "Intuitive Approaches to Cardiovascular Disease" by cardiovascular expert Mimi Guarneri http:(April 25). Register by April 14. For more information, see http://www.nursing.umn.edu/SpringEvent .

THE U COMMUNITY IS INVITED TO THE 2006 DISTINGUISHED TEACHING AWARDS CEREMONY honoring 15 U teachers for their contributions to undergraduate, graduate, and professional education. April 24, 3:30-6 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC. Registration is requested. For more information, see http://www.alumni.umn.edu/distinguishedteaching or call 612-625-9174.

Crookston:

UMC DEGREES IN CHINA: UMC received a $10,000 Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) grant to support distance-learning opportunities in Chinese and English with Zhejiang Economic and Trade Polytechnic (ZETP) University. ZETP and UMC signed a cooperation agreement last year for UMC to deliver an associate degree in information technology management and a bachelor's degree in computer software technology at ZETP. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=258 .

PLANS FOR A NORTHERN PRAIRIE VISITORS CENTER moved ahead late last month when the building concept was well received at a regional public forum. The facility would be modeled after the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland, WI. It would welcome visitors, incorporate offices of agencies and conservation organizations, house a residence for conservation workers, and include a nature and interpretive center. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=257 .

Duluth:

UMD HEALTH SERVICES' accreditation has been renewed by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) after an extensive on-site survey of its facilities and services. The staff provides medical services, counseling, and health education and serves more than 13,000 students each academic year. This is the Health Services' fifth consecutive three-year accreditation. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/hlthserv .

"ARMENIAN ADVENTURE," describing life in the small mountain country between Turkey and Azerbaijan, will be presented by former U.S. Peace Corps volunteer Marlene Johnson of Duluth. Sponsored by the Royal D. Alworth, Jr., Institute for International Studies. April 13, noon-1 p.m., fourth floor rotunda, Library. For more information, see http://www.alworth.org .

THE ART AND DESIGN STUDENT EXHIBITION continues through May 7. Tweed Museum of Art. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/tma .

Morris:

PRESENTATIONS BY FINALISTS FOR THE CHANCELLOR POSITION continue with John Miller, Eastern Oregon U, today; and Frank Cassell, U of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, April 17. Each candidate will speak on the future of public liberal arts and taking UMM to the next level at 3 p.m. in Oyate Hall, followed by a reception. Community receptions are held in the evening. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=274 .

THE FIRST COMBINED MINNESOTA RURAL SUMMIT AND SYMPOSIUM ON SMALL TOWNS will focus on "Working Better Together for the Common Good," June 6-7, UMM. The per-capita leadership requirements of small towns are great. Panels and a legislative forum will address ways to meet the compelling need for cross-sector and other types of cooperation. A variety of fun activities will include the second annual storytelling contest. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=293 .

Twin Cities:

BEAUTIFUL U DAY NEEDS YOU! Hundreds of volunteers are needed April 20 to help with tasks from cleaning up kiosks to serving lunch. See all the events and sign up to volunteer today! Choose your shift. For more information, see http://www.buday.umn.edu .

THE MINNESOTA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES last week voted 103-30 in support of a bill to help fund a new Gopher stadium. The senate must pass a companion bill to proceed. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/House_approves_new_football_stadium_for_U.html .

VISITING ARTIST Barbara Westman, known for her New Yorker illustrations, and art critic Arthur Danto, The Nation, will visit April 12-14. Events include a lecture by Westmen, April 12, noon; a discussion on "The Persistence of Place" with Westman and Naomi Scheman, philosophy, April 12, 4:30 p.m.; and a lecture by Danto, "The Future of Aesthetics," April 13, 7 p.m. All events will be in the IN-FLUX space, Regis Center. For more information, see http://www.art.umn.edu/events/artists.php or contact 612-624-6518.

TWO LECTURES ON EMERGING ISSUES IN SOIL AND WATER--"Biomass Supply and Biofuels: Some Perspectives," by Bruce Dale, chemical engineering, Michigan State U, and "Future Bioeconomy and Its Impacts on Soil and Water Resources," by Richard Cruse, Soil Science, Iowa State U--will be the fourth annual Larson-Allmaras lectures. Sponsored by the Department of Soil, Water, and Climate. April 19, 2-4:30 p.m., 335 Borlaug Hall, UMTC. For more information, see http://www.soils.umn.edu or contact Satish Gupta, [email protected] or 612-625-1241.

"CONVERSATIONS ON SUSTAINABILITY: Global Change, Energy Use, and Solutions for the Future" will feature polar explorer Will Steger and three U experts. The event will inaugurate a multidisciplinary seminar series on sustainability for U faculty, students, and the public. April 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Bell Museum auditorium; a reception will follow. For more information, see http://www.cnr.umn.edu/sustainability/events/seminar.html .

"STEP ACROSS THIS LINE," a lecture by Salman Rushdie titled after his 2002 book, will address contemporary literature, politics, culture, and philosophy. April 19, 5:30-7 p.m., Northrop Auditorium. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2880&from=umnnews .

SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH ROUNDTABLE, "From the Human Genome Through Health Disparities to Public Health," will feature Georgia Dunston, director, National Human Genome Center. April 20, 8 a.m.-noon, Coffman Union theater. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.publichealthplanet.org or call 612-626-4515.

THE INSTITUTE FOR GLOBAL STUDIES presents innovative educator Bob Peterson, founder of Milwaukee's La Escuela Fratney, on "Rethinking Our Teaching in a Time of Global Crisis" (April 20) and "Rethinking Globalization: Teaching Justice in an Unjust World" (April 21). For more information, see the events calendar at http://igs.cla.umn.edu .

A BENEFIT CONCERT FOR CITYSONGS, a creative-arts based youth and community development program for children in grades 4-8, will be hosted by its sponsors--the U's School of Social Work and College of Human Ecology and St. Paul's Hallie Q. Brown-Martin Luther King Center. Lead performers will be Robert "Eddie" Robinson and Sally Rogers, with cameos by the CitySongs kids and Howie Bursen on banjo. April 20, 7:15 p.m., First Universalist Church of Minneapolis. Tickets $30-$90 in advance. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=2869&from=umnnews .

CELEBRATING UNIVERSITY WOMEN 2006 AWARDS CELEBRATION will be April 26, 2:30-4:30 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center. To register, contact [email protected] or 612-625-9837.

THE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY celebration will be May 5-6. Events will include the Education Alumni Society Awards Celebration (May 5) and an all-class reunion, featuring a panel of current and former deans and a centennial gala dinner dance (May 6). Register by April 21. For more information, see http://www.education.umn.edu or contact [email protected] or 612-625-1310.

MORE EVENTS include Norway's princess Martha Louise and artist Svien Nyhus on their children's book, Why Kings and Queens Don't Wear Crowns (April 13); CLA's Dean Rosenstone on access to higher education (April 13); Dear Tari, screening of a film by Chieko Yamagami (April 14); African Night (April 15); Mozart sonatas (April 16); 2006 Hope Forum, "Intelligent Design: A Christian Conversation" (April 17); Frank Premack Memorial Lecture by NPR's Michele Norris (April 17); U climatologist Mark Seeley on his new book, Minnesota Weather Almanac (April 18); McKnight Summer Fellows on romance in Japanese and Russian poetry (April 18); and "Mathematics and Magic Tricks" by Persi Diaconis (April 19). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (4-19-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_4192006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 15; April 19, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --Beautiful U Day will be statewide April 20. --Bonding bill passes Minnesota House of Representatives, proceeds to joint committee.

2. Features and Columns --Undergraduate research: symposia coming up at UMM, UMTC. --Summer youth programs at U locations. --People: Awards for U women; UMM Chavez Awards; Outstanding Achievement Award to Michele Norris.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

BEAUTIFUL U DAY WILL BE STATEWIDE APRIL 20. Events are scheduled at U locations across Minnesota, 11 at UMC, 3 at UMD with 7 more throughout the week, 6 at UMM, and 2 at UMR. At UMTC, a symposium exploring North and Northeast Minneapolis connections to the Mississippi River is one of 17 events. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Beautiful_U_Day_grows_into_statewide_event.html .

A BONDING BILL was passed by the Minnesota House of Representatives April 12, with more support for the U than the governor recommended but less than the Senate passed. House and Senate bills now proceed to a conference committee, which may be named this week. For more information, see the latest updates at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/govrel .

2. Features and Columns

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH: When Professor Frank Barnwell saw the quality of research being done by undergraduates in a biological sciences seminar nearly 20 years ago, he was inspired to organize a poster symposium so other faculty members could see it, too. Now the annual symposium is campuswide at UMTC and will fill Coffman Union's Great Hall April 26, 1-6 p.m. A similar symposium at UMM, in its sixth year, will be April 21. Faculty and staff are invited to see what U undergraduates are doing, support the students, and be inspired. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Undergraduate_research_teaches_and_inspires.html .

SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMS AT U LOCATIONS STATEWIDE: On all its campuses and at many other locations around Minnesota, the University offers dozens of summer programs for children and youth. Read the roundup in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Summer_youth_at_the_U.html .

PEOPLE: Six U women award winners, to be honored April 26, are Karen Hsaio Ashe, Elaine Tyler May, Jean Quam, Debra Haessly, Cathleen Marquardt, JoAn Russell, and Ann McNally; UMM's Chavez Award winners are Viridiana Zuniga and Pareena Lawrence; CLA alumna and National Public Radio commentator Michele Norris received an Outstanding Achievement Award April 17. Read these and more news about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming the U:

FORUMS AND CONSULTATIONS are currently scheduled for four task forces: the research task forces on infrastructure and collaboration (April 21); collegiate design: science and engineering, UMTC (April 21); and collegiate design: College of Liberal Arts, UMTC (April 26). For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/events.php .

University-wide:

DISTINGUISHED TEACHING AWARDS CELEBRATION: REGISTER TODAY to attend the ceremony honoring 15 U teachers for their contributions to undergraduate, graduate, and professional education. April 24, 3:30-6 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC. Register on the Web by the end of today at http://www.alumni.umn.edu/distinguishedteaching or call 612-625-9174 by April 21. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2906&from=umnnews .

ASSOCIATE VP, OFFICE FOR PLANNING AND ACADEMIC AFFAIRS: Nominations and applications are invited for this position to promote and support the systemwide, academic dimensions of capital planning, institutional research, and space management in all colleges and on all campuses of the U. Review of applications begins April 28 and will continue until the position is filled. For more information, see http://academic.umn.edu/system/search/avp_opaa.html .

CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE (CSC): All civil service staff are invited to attend the next meeting, April 27, 9 a.m.-noon, 101 Walter Library, UMTC. Meetings are open to the public. For more information about the CSC and to see the agenda, see http://www.umn.edu/csc .

THE FIRST GAMES SYMPOSIUM, an interdisciplinary, intercampus event, will showcase gaming technologies and scholarship in an effort to promote and advance understanding of video games as an important new medium. Speakers in the morning; games and technology demonstrations in the afternoon. Includes a sound design experiment station, demos, hands-on art game-making activities, a games usability lounge, prizes, and refreshments. Sponsored by UMD's Viz Lab (Visual and Digital Imaging Lab) and the systemwide Games Research and Virtual Environment Lab (GRAVEL). April 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Rafters, Kirby Student Center. For more information, contact Lisa Fitzpatrick, [email protected] or 218-726-8093, or see http://www.d.umn.edu/vdil .

LAVENDAR GRADUATION CELEBRATION will honor gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students graduating on all U campuses. April 27, 4-6:30 p.m., UMTC; register by April 21 to participate. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/glbt .

"RX: TREATING NATURE DEFICIT DISORDER" is the topic of the ninth annual Growing to Learn conference, featuring Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods, and U professor Martha Farrell Erickson. April 22, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chanhassen. For more information, see http://www.arboretum.umn.edu/education/adult/publicpolicy.htm or call 952- 443-1422.

"UNCHARTED TERRITORY," the 16th annual conference of the U Communicators Forum, will feature explorer Dan Buettner on leadership techniques, author Bob Filipczak on the millennial mind, and writer and performer Mary Jo Pehl on communication challenges. May 4, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Continuing Education and Conference Center, UMTC. Registration includes yearly membership fee. Early registration discount by April 23. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umcf .

Crookston:

TOURS FOR TOTS are bringing some 800 children, age three and up, to UMC for a close-up look at the world of sheep, beef and dairy cattle, horses, greenhouses, and more. Through April 22. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=261 .

Duluth:

THE NEW CENTER FOR GENOCIDE, HOLOCAUST, AND HUMAN RIGHTS STUDIES will be inaugurated in three grand-opening events. All are free, and the public is cordially invited. April 20: Professor Steven Feinstein, director, UMTC Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies, will speak on "Art and Remembrance" as complement and enrichment to an exhibit by clay artist Daisy Brand. 4 p.m., Tweed Museum. April 25: Screening of The Armenian Genocide 90 Years Later, a documentary production of the UMTC Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies. 11:45 a.m., Rafters, Kirby Student Center. May 2: "Enforcing Economic and Social Rights: Global Experiences" will be presented by two leading human rights attorneys, Bret Thiele and Mayra Gomez. Noon, Rafters, Kirby Student Center. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/news/2006/April/11- A.html .

"GLOBALIZATION: THE INTELLECTUAL HISTORY OF AN IDEA" will be presented by William Henderson, recently appointed director of the Alworth Institute for International Studies, as the annual Royal D. Alworth Memorial Lecture. April 25, 7:30 p.m., fourth floor rotunda, Library. A reception will follow. Free; the public is cordially invited. For more information, see http://www.alworth.org .

JULIUS CAESAR, Shakespeare's masterpiece on the allure and chaos of political power, will be presented by the Department of Theatre. April 20-23 and 26-29, 7:30 p.m. nightly and 2 p.m. Sunday, Marshall Performing Arts Center. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/theatre ; for tickets, call 218-726-8561.

Morris:

MORRIS AND JIASHAN, CHINA, OFFICIALLY BECAME SISTER CITIES as part of the International Sister City Program when an official document was signed in Jiashan April 17. Chancellor Schuman, Mayor Carol Wilcox, and others from the campus and community are currently in China. UMM's China exchange program offers UMM students a May term or semester in China while students from China study at UMM. Chinese students will participate in UMM's 2006 Summer Scholars Program. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=304 .

Rochester:

"CLEAN WATER: LEGACY OR MEMORY?" will be the topic of the Earth Day Coffee & Conversation, followed by a walk to Quarry Hill. Discussion of clean-water proposals currently before the Minnesota Legislature will be led by Craig Johnson, League of Minnesota Cities, and Terry Lee, Olmsted County Environmental Resources; roundtable discussions with community members and local legislators. Sponsored by eight community organizations, including UMR. April 22, 8-10 a.m., Quarry Hill Nature Center, 701 Silver Creek Road N.E., Rochester. For more information, contact Michon Rogers at [email protected] or 507-287-7141.

Twin Cities:

COPYRIGHT PERMISSION REQUESTS FOR MAY TERM AND SUMMER SESSION 2006 course materials should be submitted to the Copyright Permission Center as soon as possible. Full citations may be dropped off at any Printing Services location, faxed to 612-626-9810, mailed to 102 Printing Services Building, or submitted online at http://www.copyright.umn.edu . For more information, contact Dale Mossestad at [email protected] or 612-626-9416.

ALLY TRAININGS are opportunities to learn about the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and ally (GLBTA) communities. Trainings include GLBT "Jeopardy," a panel of community members, and facilitated discussion focused on dispelling myths and stereotypes. Participants come away with next steps to help create a welcoming and affirming campus environment for all GLBTA individuals. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on three dates: April 20, 110 St. Paul Student Center; April 28, 180 Humphrey Center; May 4, 324 Coffman Union. Lunch provided. To register, contact the GLBT Programs office at [email protected] or 612-625-0537.

U OF M REUSE WAREHOUSE SEALED-BID AUCTION begins April 20. Used parking booth, antique cupola, stainless steel commercial refrigerator, 10-foot oak conference table, microscope, and more are up for bid. April 20, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; April 21, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.; April 24, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. ReUse Warehouse, 883 29th Avenue S.E., Minneapolis. For a complete list of items, see http://www.reuse.umn.edu .

UNIVERSITY STORES ANNUAL LAB FEST will include more than 60 participating scientific vendors and manufacturer representatives. April 26, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Radisson University Hotel, Minneapolis; April 27, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., North Star Ballroom, St. Paul Student Center. For more information about U Stores, see http://www.ustores.umn.edu .

MATH AND MAGIC, by Persi Diaconis, Stanford U, will be the final public lecture of the season sponsored by the Institute for Mathematics and Its Applications. April 19, 7 p.m., 125 Willey Hall. For more information, see http://www.ima.umn.edu/2005-2006/PUB4.19.06/ .

THE LAST McKNIGHT SUMMER FELLOWS PRESENTATION will include M. J. Fitzgerald, English; Carl Flink, theater arts and dance; and Thomas Lane, art. Presentations span Italy, the United States, the bottom of Lake Superior, and the Greek island of Sifnos. Today, 4-5:30 p.m., 100 Barker Center for Dance.

A THREE-DAY CELEBRATION OF ARTS AND DIASPORA will be the last event in this year's University symposium, "The Politics of Populations." Events will include the spoken word, film, photography, poetry, dance, and a panel discussion. April 21-23, Nicholson Hall, Nolte Center, Barker Center for Dance, and Babalu (downtown). For more information, see http://www.ias.umn.edu/arts&diaspora.php .

HMONG CULTURE will be the topic of the season's final workshop in the Training for Global Understanding series. Faculty and staff are invited to learn about traditions and family expectations of this growing UMTC student group and how to assist them in pursuing their careers. April 25, 9-11 a.m., 101 Walter Library. For more information, see "Register for Training for Global Understanding" at http://www.isss.umn.edu .

MORE EVENTS include the 37th annual iron pour (today); Minnesota sustainable tourism conference (April 19-20); Turkish Culture Through Turkish Art (April 20); Cabaret at the University Theatre (April 20-29); "United Front for Children: Global Efforts to Combat Sexual Trafficking of Children in Travel and Tourism," an international conference (April 21); reunion and conference to celebrate the 1969 Morrill Hall takeover by the Afro-American Action Committee (April 21-22); an international symposium, "Myths and Realities of Ecology, Design, and Ecosystem Health in the Metropolitan Landscape" (April 21-22); Department of Art open studios and celebration to honor retiring faculty members Guy Baldwin and Tom Cowette (April 22); Habitrot 5K benefit (April 23); "Adolescent Research and Social Policy," a lecture by visiting professor Anne Petersen (April 24); "Restoring Electoral Competition: Research and Remedies for Redistricting" (April 25); "Who Speaks for the People? Coming to Terms With American Populist Culture," the annual David W. Noble Lecture, with David Horowitz (April 25); and Innovation Researchers on Campus (iROC) meeting and pizza lunch (April 26). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (4-26-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_4262006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 16; April 26, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Top Stories --Bonding bill moves to conference committee; conferees announced. --Outstanding Community Service Award winners announced.

2. Features and Columns --Distinguished teaching awards celebrated April 24. --Podcasts on achieving end-of-semester success available. --People: Alonso Prize; Beinecke Scholar; Law School dean to step down; and more.

3. Campus Events and Information

1. Top Stories

BOTH THE SENATE AND HOUSE VERSIONS OF A CAPITAL BONDING BILL have moved into conference committee, which will begin meeting soon to work out differences before a final bill is presented to the governor. Both versions include funding for the U. Conference committee members are senators Koering (R, Fort Ripley), Langseth (DFL, Glyndon), Metzen (DFL, South St. Paul), Pappas (DFL, St. Paul), and Skoglund (DFL, Minneapolis) and representatives Brod (R, New Prague), Dorman (R, Albert Lea), Hausman (DFL, St. Paul), McNamara (R, Hastings), and Nornes (R, Fergus Falls). Faculty and staff support is needed to help ensure that all projects in the U's capital request are funded. Contact legislators at http://ga4.org/campaign/cap_cc . For more information about the U request and to view the senate, house, and governor's recommendations, see http://www.umn.edu/groots/background/caprequest.php .

2006 OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD WINNERS are Vernon Cardwell, agronomy and plant genetics; David Feinberg, art; Corliss Outley, kinesiology; Mark Umbreit, social work; and Jacquelyn Zita, women's studies; all are based at UMTC. The award recognizes members of the U- wide community who have devoted time and talent to making substantial and enduring contributions to the greater community beyond the duties of their U position. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2927&from=umnnews .

2. Features and Columns

DISTINGUISHED TEACHING AWARDS: UMD professor Dennis Falk saved the campus's master of social work program in the 1980s and has helped to build a national model for training to work in rural and tribal communities. On Monday, April 24, Falk received the U's highest teaching honor and was the first from UMD to be recognized for contributions to postbaccalaureate, graduate, and professional education. The ceremony honored 15 U faculty members and was attended by about 350 of their family members and ardent supporters. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Building_strong_communities.html .

PODCASTS ON ACHIEVING END-OF-SEMESTER SUCCESS have been created for students by the Office of Student Affairs, UMTC, on topics from avoiding procrastination to preparing for finals. Faculty and staff are invited to preview and connect students to this valuable resource. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Podcasts_help_students.html .

PEOPLE: Ann Markuson, Humphrey Institute, has received the William Alonso Memorial Prize for Innovative Work in Regional Science; anthropology junior Sarah Hampton, CLA-honors, UMTC, is the first U student to win the national Beinecke Scholarship; and Alex Johnson, dean of the Law School, UMTC, will step down May 31. Read these news items and more about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

3. Campus Events and Information

Transforming the U:

THE DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT on 10 of 11 preliminary task force recommendations is April 30. To review the preliminary recommendations and post comments, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/tf_recommendations.html .

THE UNIVERSITY POLICY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT team invites faculty and staff to submit comments and suggestions for improving the U's policy framework. Responses must be received by May 31. For more information, download "What is the University Policy Project?" and give feedback at http://process.umn.edu/groups/public/documents/form/polfeedback.cfm .

University-wide:

FISCAL YEAR 2006 SERVICE AND PROCESS IMPROVEMENT FUND (SPIF) AWARD RECIPIENTS are the Office of Student Affairs, UMTC (student engagement planner); Office of the VP for Research (proposal routing "smart" form and process flow improvement); University Services (employee engagement project); UMC (student evaluation of support services for online courses); and Graduate School, UMD and UMTC (forms project). SPIF was created by President Bruininks to support initiatives that have a positive impact on critical U service levels, productivity, and cost- revenue streams. The Office of Service and Continuous Improvement administers the fund. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/osci/spif.html .

UMC AND UMTC FACULTY: FALL AND SUMMER TEXTBOOK REQUISITIONS ARE DUE. All UMC and UMTC faculty members are encouraged to submit textbook adoptions to U of M Bookstores as soon as possible. Students will sell back their spring books beginning next week and, with information about what books will be used for fall term, can receive better refunds. For more information about textbook adoption, see http://www.bookstores.umn.edu/faculty/courseadoptions.html or contact the textbook office, [email protected] or 612-625-5549.

THE WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE provides a yearlong professional development opportunity for about 25 women from across the U who attend monthly meetings with others in supervisory, management, and administrative leadership positions. All U women, regardless of position, are invited to apply or recommend the program to others who may benefit. Deadline: May 19. Sponsored by the Center for Human Resource Development and the Office for University Women. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/leadership/womens or contact Teri Spillers, [email protected] or 612-624-2624.

THE BENEFITS ADVISORY COMMITTEE HAS EXTENDED THE DEADLINE TO MAY 11 for comments from U faculty and staff about experiences with their health plans as well as the pharmacy benefits manager, Rx America, and the wellness and health improvement vendor, Harris HealthTrends, so far in 2006. Comments will be confidential. Contact the appropriate person, listed here, with your comments. U Classic Plus by Health Partners: Joe Jameson, [email protected] or 612-625-4399. Medica Choice Regional, Medica Choice National, and Medica Direct: Peh Ng, [email protected] or 320-589-6318. Medica Elect & Essential and Insights by Medica: Karen Wolterstorff, [email protected] or 612-624-5032. RxAmerica and Harris HealthTrends: Gavin Watt, [email protected] or 612-625-6614. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/usenate/committees/bac.html or UPlan information at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/eb .

COUNTDOWN FOR HEALTH CONNECTIONS: Complete the UPlan Wellness Assessment by April 30 to earn $65 for participating in Health Connections. Take 20 minutes to answer a confidential questionnaire about your health habits and fitness goals and qualify to receive a $65 wellness reward in about six weeks. Faculty and staff members are eligible to receive an additional $65 when they connect to a health coach by phone, enroll in online health improvement programs, or participate in a UPlan Wellness-sponsored health action program later this year. Log on to http://www.healthconnections.umn.edu .

GREAT CONVERSATION: "RETHINKING OUR URBAN ENVIRONMENTS" will bring together two visionary urbanists, U professor of geography Judith Martin and U.S. Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-Oregon), assessing the unprecedented challenges and opportunities of rebuilding New Orleans and the Gulf Coast after the 2005 hurricanes. May 1, 7:30 p.m., Ted Mann Concert Hall, UMTC. ITV broadcasts: 100 Dowell Hall, UMC; ST 110 University Center Rochester, UMR. For more information, see http://www.cce.umn.edu/conversations .

"RENEWABLE ENERGY NORTH OF THE BORDER," a conference on Canadian biotechnology and renewable energy research development, will bring together three panels of experts. Sponsored by the U's Initiative for Renewable Energy and the Environment (IREE) and the Consulate General of Canada, Minneapolis. May 11, St. Paul Student Center. Registration deadline: April 27. For more information, see http://www.iree.umn.edu .

Crookston:

UMC CENTENNIAL TEA: U OF M FIRST LADY Susan Hagstrum spoke on women and giving at UMC's ninth annual tea last week, this year celebrating the campus centennial. More than 100 women attended the event, which featured its own special blend of tea and china serving sets donated for the day by community, faculty, and staff members. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/All_the_tea._and_china.html .

ACCREDITATION SITE VISIT is this week. Peer evaluators are visiting UMC April 24-26 as part of the review process by the Higher Learning Commission. This is the final stage in the process. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=267 .

Duluth:

"AT-RISK YOUTH: WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE" will be presented by Barbara Elliott, professor of family medicine, recipient of the 2005-06 UMD Chancellor's Award for Distinguished Research. The award honors UMD faculty members for excellence in research, scholarly contributions to the field, and dedication to student research in education. May 3; award ceremony, 3:15 p.m., 175 Life Science Building, followed by lecture and reception, Griggs Center, Kirby Student Center. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/news/2006/April/11-B.html .

"THE THIRD PLACE: A BELATED CONCEPT" will be presented by urban sociologist Ray Oldenburg, U of West Florida, Pensacola, as the annual Dennis Brissett Memorial Lecture. Oldenburg was a frequent collaborator on writing projects with the late Professor Brissett. April 27, 3 p.m., 142 Medical School Duluth. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/news/2006/April/05.html .

Morris:

FIFTEENTH ANNUAL FACULTY AND STAFF RECOGNITION DINNER will honor this year's award winners and retirees. April 27; reception 4-5:30 p.m., LaFave House, 305 College Avenue; dinner 6 p.m., Oyate Hall. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=306 .

FAREWELL PICNIC for Chancellor Sam Schuman and his wife, Nancy, will be sponsored by the Morris Campus Student Association and the Office of Special Events. May 1, 4:30 p.m., campus mall; short program 5 p.m. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php? newsID=311 .

Rochester:

TWO NEW WELCOME SIGNS--one in 13 languages--will be unveiled at a special event to celebrate UMR student services. April 27, 2-5 p.m., UMR student services office. Provost Carl will give remarks at 4 p.m. For more information, see http://www.r.umn.edu .

THE MEXICAN CONSULATE WILL VISIT UMR April 29 to issue Mexican IDs and visas. Mexican IDs are recognized by some local governments as a valid form of ID for purposes such as employment and school registration. The U of M Extension Service is working with leaders of Rochester's Latino community to distribute financial education resources the same day. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2917&from=umnnews .

Twin Cities:

MULTICULTURAL TEACHING AND LEARNING FELLOWSHIP GRANTS will support seven fellows with grants of $2,500 to address issues in courses, programs, and departments during the 2006-07 academic year. Application deadline: June 1. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/teachlearn/multicultural .

CONFERENCE ON ETHICS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP will be sponsored by the Carlson School's Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, Business Roundtable Institute for Corporate Ethics, and Journal of Business Venturing. April 27-29, Holiday Inn Metrodome. For more information, see http://www.carlsonschool.umn.edu/Page3487.aspx or contact [email protected] .

HARVARD STREET FORUM will present a talk by David Feldshuh on "Miss Evers' Boys: Factual Fiction and Ethical Truth," with music performed by T. Mychael Rambo. April 28, noon-1 p.m., Grace University Lutheran Church. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Playwright_to_discuss_Tuskegee.html .

FREE PROGRAMS ON SKIN CANCER AND PUBLIC SMOKING will be presented by the Cancer Center as part of the Ask the Experts program. Both will be at the Radisson University Hotel, Stadium Village, 9-11 a.m. Skin cancer: April 29. Public smoking: May 6. For more information, see http://www.ahc.umn.edu/news/releases/canceru040306/home.html .

FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENINGS will be offered by the dermatology department on Melanoma Monday. May 1, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Dermatologic Surgery and Laser Center, 4-175 Phillips- Wangensteen Building. For more information, see http://www.ahc.umn.edu/news/releases/melanomamonday041906/home.html .

HELMET AND HEADLIGHTS PROGRAM offers both items for $20 (or they can be purchased separately). Pharmacy, Boynton Health Service. For more information, see http://www.bhs.umn.edu/services/helmet-headlights.htm and--for a reminder about bike rules, bikes on buses, and more--see http://www.umn.edu/pts/biking.htm .

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT GRADUATION CELEBRATION, an annual spring celebration for international students and their colleagues, family, and friends, will include dancing, live music by Tres Mundos, refreshments, photos with Goldy, and a short program. Hosted by International Student and Scholar Services; all are welcome, no registration necessary. May 5, 4-6 p.m., Bistro West, Humphrey Center. For more information, see http://www.isss.umn.edu .

MORE EVENTS include the Undergraduate Symposium (today); Lavender Graduation (April 27); Take Back the Night march and rally (April 27); "Promoting Excellence in Public Management: Innovations in Cities and Counties" (April 27); BFA and MFA exhibitions (public receptions April 28); Spring Jam (through April 29); U of M Gospel Choir (April 30); International Film Festival (through April 30); "The Pit and the Rope: Joseph and Judah" (May 1); Itasca Project chair and CSOM interim co-dean Jim Campbell on regional civil leadership (May 2); "Implementing Positive Behavioral Support: Intervention Strategies for Preschoolers With Autism" workshop (May 3); and the Harris Forum: "Making Early Education Opportunities Work for Kids and Teachers" (May 4). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (5-03-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_5032006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 17; May 3, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Winning innovative ideas for strengthening graduate education, celebration May 9. --President's Emerging Leaders for 2006-07 announced. --People: President's Awards for Outstanding Service, UMM recognition event, and more. --From Dewey Decimal to digital: U librarian and volunteer Marie Eller, 1919-2006.

Transforming the U

WINNING INNOVATIVE IDEAS FOR STRENGTHENING GRADUATE EDUCATION will be celebrated at an event hosted by the Graduate School May 9. Best director of graduate studies (DGS) and assistant DGS award winners will also be honored. First prize in the innovative ideas competition will be awarded to Mark Rutherford, College of Veterinary Medicine; second prize to Patricia Jones Whyte and Noro Andriamanalina, Graduate School; and third prize to the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences Graduate Working Group. The 2006 Best DGS Award recipients are Daniel Kelliher, political science, and James Reinardy, social work; 2006 Best DGS Assistants are John Gardner, mechanical engineering, and Louise Shand, microbiology, immunology, and cancer biology. The U's graduate education community is invited to celebrate the recipients and their achievements. 3-5 p.m., Weisman Art Museum, UMTC; refreshments at 3 p.m., awards at 3:30 p.m. Registration requested by contacting [email protected] or 612-626-5848. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/dgs .

PRESIDENT'S EMERGING LEADERS (PEL) FOR 2006-07 are Michael Allen, Kristin Berns, Darlene Charboneau, Tricia Conway, Asim Dorovic, Remi Douah, Carol Foth, Lara Friedman-Shedlov, Ann Hagen, Nanette Hanks, Jay Hesley, Andrew Hill, David Imdieke, Janet Kendra, Peggy Korsmo- Kennon, Nikki Letawsky Shultz, Mary Moga, Caitrin Mullan, Shane Nackerud, Laura Negrini, Peter Radcliffe, Todd Reubold, Laureen Ross McCalib, Mary Ellen Shaw, Kristina Sticha, and Jeremy Todd. PEL is a one-year program dedicated to mentoring, rewarding, and retaining outstanding academic administrative and professional (P&A), civil service, and bargaining unit staff across the U. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/pel/participants/0607alumni.html .

PEOPLE: President's Award for Outstanding Service recipients for 2006 are Carol Chomsky, Betty Jo Johnson, Dennis Jones, Mary Jo Kane, Jenny Meslow, Debbie Nelson, Charles Patterson, Louis Pignolet, Sharyn Schelske, Thomas Soulen, Theodore Thompson, and Gary Wilson; UMM faculty and staff honored at a recognition dinner April 26 included Jacki Anderson, Brenda Boever, Chuck Grussing, Julie Hesse, Eric Klinger, Dave Nelson, Peter Orr, Nick Peterson, Sam Schuman, and Roger Wareham; Josephine Lee, UMTC, has received the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans Leadership Award; and UMC's new admissions counselor is graduating senior Kelli Barnes. Read these news items and more about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

FROM DEWEY DECIMAL TO DIGITAL: Marie Eller's career at UMTC began in Walter Library during World War II and ended in Wilson Library in 1984, the year the card catalog closed. But Eller's enthusiasm for the U continued as she applied her zest for life to the U of M Retirees Association. Eller died last month at the age of 86. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/From_Dewey_Decimal_to_digital.html .

Transforming the U:

THE UNIVERSITY POLICY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT team invites faculty and staff to submit comments and suggestions for improving the U's policy framework. This is a comprehensive effort to ensure that policies support the U's mission and strategic goals, meet the needs of the U community, and minimize risk to the U and its employees. Responses must be received by May 31. For more information, download "What is the University Policy Improvement Project?" and give feedback at http://process.umn.edu/groups/public/documents/form/polfeedback.cfm .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

NOMINATIONS FOR THE U OF M GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT AWARD for faculty and staff members, active or retired, are invited to recognize outstanding contributions to global education and international programs at the U in any field or discipline. Recipients receive a cash prize and honorary title. For more information, see http://www.international.umn.edu/awards/global/global.html .

FORMER U.S. REPRESENTATIVES Tim Penny (D-Minn.) and Vin Weber (R-Minn) are seeking young leaders from across Minnesota to be Policy Fellows in the Humphrey Institute Policy Forum. The nine-month educational experience prepares individuals to assume public affairs leadership roles. The program is in its 15th year. Application deadline: June 5. For more information, see http://www.hhh.umn.edu/centers/policy-forum .

"KEEPING OUR FACULTIES IV" CONFERENCE WILL BE APRIL 12-14, 2007, UMTC. This national symposium is devoted to helping colleges and universities attract, recruit, advance, and retain faculty members of color. The last one, held at the U in November 2004, attracted more than 400 faculty, researchers, senior administrators, human resources professionals, students, and policy makers from across the nation. The focus in 2007 will expand to include the academic health sciences as well as science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and business. For more information, see http://www.cce.umn.edu/conferences/kof .

WALK ON WEDNESDAYS for 20 minutes on work time. First Wednesday of each month through September, beginning today--May 3, June 7, July 5, Aug. 2, Sept. 6--at 1 p.m. Employees who are unable to walk at this time can arrange with their supervisors to walk at another time. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/wellness .

SOUTHWEST MINNESOTA RENEWABLE ENERGY TOUR for U faculty members, administrators, and students affiliated with projects funded by the Initiative for Renewable Energy and the Environment (IREE) will include Minwind in Luverne and the biodiesel plant, Agricultural Utilization Research Institute, in Redwood Falls. May 15-16 from UMTC, St. Paul. For more information, see http://www.iree.umn.edu or contact Ann Mayhew, [email protected] or 612-624-6566.

Crookston:

UMC WAS RECOMMENDED FOR FULL ACCREDITATION CONTINUING FOR 10 YEARS, the maximum amount of time awarded, by the Higher Learning Commission. The team also recommended that UMC's degree programs be available online, pending approval by the regents. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=271 .

COMMENCEMENT for more than 150 students will be May 6, UMC's centennial celebration finale. "Go...You Can Always Sleep Later!" will be presented by keynote speaker Cindy Bigger, '79, U of M Extension Service. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=270 .

Duluth:

FOURTEENTH ANNUAL JOEL LABOVITZ ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS AWARDS, sponsored by the Labovitz School of Business and Economics, will be May 17, 11:30 a.m., Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center. Tickets $25, reservations required by May 12; see http://www.umdced.com/labo or call 218-726-7298.

UMD LIBRARY HAS LAUNCHED "ASK US!" The online instant messaging service lets students, faculty, and staff quickly communicate with a librarian from their home, office, or library computer. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/lib/askus .

COMMENCEMENT for graduate degree recipients will be May 11, 7 p.m., Romano Gymnasium, UMD, and for bachelor's degree recipients will be May 13, noon, Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center arena. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/commencement .

Morris:

ALUMNI MEMORIAL LABYRINTH was dedicated with a marker April 20. The labyrinth will be constructed this summer adjacent to the North Parking Lot. It was proposed by Episcopal students for the enjoyment of the campus and community. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=316 .

SERVICE LEARNING EXPO, including presentations and posters, will give highlights of activities in nine spring semester courses through 16 projects for 19 community agencies, organizations, and schools. May 3, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Student Center. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=305 .

COMMENCEMENT will be May 13. The day will include receptions for the humanities, education, social sciences, and science and math divisions (11 a.m.); student assembly (12:30 p.m.); commencement address by Chancellor Schuman (1:30 p.m., campus mall); and reception (3 p.m., Oyate Hall). For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/events/commencement .

Rochester:

THREE FORMER GOVERNORS--Wendell Anderson (1971-76), Al Quie (1979-83), and Arne Carlson (1991-99)--will speak at a panel on "Past Wisdom, Present Challenges, Future Vision" as part of the Coffee & Conversation series sponsored by UMR and seven other Rochester organizations. May 8, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Kahler Hotel, 20 2nd Avenue S.W., Rochester. Registration deadline: May 3. For more information, see http://www.r.umn.edu or contact [email protected] or 507-282- 0203.

Twin Cities:

COMMENCEMENTS this spring, May 5-June 17, will feature the U.S. surgeon general, the secretary of agriculture, Sen. Norm Coleman, and UnitedHealth Group CEO William McGuire. For a complete schedule of the 21 ceremonies, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=2945&from=umnnews .

ALL FACULTY AND STAFF MEMBERS ARE INVITED TO HEAR SANDRA DAY O'CONNOR, U.S. Supreme Court justice 1981-2006, speak on issues facing the judiciary and the nation at the UMAA annual celebration. May 23, 8 p.m., Northrop Auditorium. Tickets $30 plus fees through the U arts ticket office, 612-624-2345. For more information, see http://www.alumni.umn.edu/oconnor .

THE AURORA CENTER WILL MOVE TEMPORARILY, May 9-Aug. 31, to space in Comstock Hall while space in Boynton Health Service is renovated. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/aurora .

STATEWIDE GOPHER STADIUM RALLY TOUR, led by U of M Alumni Association CEO Margaret Sughrue Carlson, began yesterday in St. Cloud and will include Hibbing (May 4), Red Wing (May 9), and Willmar (May 10). Carlson is speaking to Rotary Clubs about the need for the Minnesota Senate to take quick action on the Gopher stadium bill in order to make a new stadium a reality in 2009. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2950&from=umnnews .

THE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH'S ANNUAL GAYLORD ANDERSON LECTURE will feature N. K. Ganguly, microbiology and immunology expert and director general of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), based in New Delhi. ICMR is equivalent to the U.S. National Institutes of Health and India's primary center for biomedical research. May 4, 4-5 p.m., Mayo Memorial Auditorium. For more information, see http://www.sph.umn.edu/news/events/gaylordlecture.html .

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION will include a reunion, alumni breakfast, panel of current and former deans, and dinner and dance with recognition of 100 distinguished alumni. May 5-6. For more information, see http://education.umn.edu/alum/100Distinguished.html .

U WOMEN OF COLOR (UWOC) will host "Chinese Black White Women Got the Beat," a performance about the experience of growing up biracial experience in Minnesota by Sherry Quan Lee, Split Rock Arts Program, and Lori Young-Williams, Office of Disability Services. May 9, noon-1 p.m., 12 Morrill Hall. Free and open to the public; register by May 5. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2957&from=umnnews .

PRIDE @ WORK SPRING PICNIC welcomes everyone. The end-of-semester event is for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and ally employees, students, faculty members, and friends. Bring a lunch and an ally or two. May 9, noon-1 p.m., Northrop Plaza; in case of rain, in the Cube, Coffman Union. For more information, contact the GLBT Programs Office, [email protected] or 612-625-0537, or [email protected] .

WRITING TO END HOMELESSNESS, a presentation and exhibit of work created in a seminar and studio course, will feature students and faculty members from the College of Architecture and Landscape Architecture. May 10, 4:30-5:30 p.m., reception 5:30-6 p.m., Nicholson Hall.

ETHICS AND FOOD SAFETY RELATED TO EXTERNAL FUNDING OF U ACTIVITIES will be the focus of a two-day roundtable discussion for investigators from the U and other public and private universities, leading companies, and trade associations. May 11-12, Coffman Union and McNamara Alumni Center. For more information, see http://www.cvm.umn.edu/cahfs or contact Frank Liu at [email protected] or 612-625-8561.

HUMPHREY PUBLIC LEADERSHIP AWARDS EVENT will be May 30. Honorees this year will include former U.S. senator and peace envoy George Mitchell, former state supreme court chief justice Kathleen Blatz, North Point Health and Wellness Center CEO Gary Cunningham, and former ambassador Geri Joseph. Tickets are required. For more information, see http://www.hhh.umn.edu/news/leadership_awards or contact Lars Leafblad, [email protected] or 612-625-9588.

MORE EVENTS include Who's Afraid of Designer Babies? in the Science on the Screen series (May 3); "Partnership Networks and the Spread of HIV" (May 4); Small World Coffee Hour and International Graduation Celebration (May 5); spring raptor release (May 6); Faculty Dance Club's Rainbow of Colors dance (May 6); annual U community public meeting on storm water management planning (May 8); Lenox Group CEO Sue Engel at the Carlson School's Inside the Boardroom annual event (May 9); discussion on the art and politics of "Joseph Merrick, the Elephant Man" (May 10); and Department of Design, Housing, and Apparel senior exhibition closing reception and award ceremony, Goldstein Museum of Design (May 10). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (5-10-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_5102006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 18; May 10, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--State senate passes two key University bills. --Advisers celebrate Tate Awards. --CAPA update: election results. --Quality students, national awards: a bumper year for scholarship winners. --People: staff appointments in CEHD and College of Design; and more.

Transforming the U

THE MINNESOTA STATE SENATE PASSED TWO KEY UNIVERSITY BILLS May 9--a bill that would create a special bonding authority for biomedical sciences research facilities and another that would fund an on-campus stadium at UMTC. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Senate_passes_two_key_University_bills.html .

ADVISERS CELEBRATE TATE AWARD WINNERS: Combine all the choices at public universities with the ups and downs of student life, and it's no mystery why advising is critical to students'--and universities'--success. Each year, U advisers get together for a day to examine critical challenges and best practices and to honor top colleagues. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_advisers_celebrate_Tate_Awards.html .

CAPA UPDATE: ELECTION RESULTS for academic professional and administrative (P&A) staff senators and for officers of the Council of Academic Professionals and Administrators (CAPA) have been announced. Now they're preparing for a year of change. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Council_of_Academic_Professionals_and_Administrators/ CAPA_prepares_for_year_of_change.html .

QUALITY STUDENTS, NATIONAL AWARDS: 2006 is a bumper year for U of M scholarship winners. UMTC has four Goldwater scholars, two Truman scholars, a Rhodes, a Luce, and a Beinecke scholar. What's behind their success? Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Quality_students2C_national_awards.html .

PEOPLE: Lead staff members in central administration of the reconfigured College of Education and Human Development and the new College of Design have been appointed; Maroon & Gold Awards for communications excellence were announced May 4; Juran Fellows and doctoral awards were announced May 5; John Wagner, pediatrics, has been appointed to a national stem-cell research advisory committee; and Joe Nathan, Center for School Change, has been appointed to the Minnesota Early Learning Foundation. Read these news items and more about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

THE UNIVERSITY POLICY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT team invites faculty and staff to submit comments and suggestions for improving the U's policy framework by May 31. For more information, see http://process.umn.edu/groups/public/documents/form/polfeedback.cfm .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

BOARD OF REGENTS OPEN FORUM ON THE U BUDGET: The board will review the administration's budget during its monthly meeting May 12 and take action on the budget June 9. A forum will be held May 23, 1 p.m., Boardroom, sixth floor, McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC. Individuals who wish to speak should write or call the board office by May 16: 600 McNamara Alumni Center, 200 Oak Street S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55455, 612-625-6300. Include name, e-mail, phone number, the group represented (if any), relationship to the U, and a general presentation topic. Each speaker will be limited to three minutes. Written information for the board must be submitted by May 18. For more information about the budget, see http://www.budget.umn.edu . For more information about the regents, see http://www.umn.edu/regents .

PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS BY THREE FINALISTS for the executive director position, Consortium for Postsecondary Academic Success, will be next week. Ken Dragseth, Edina Public Schools, May 15, 3- 4:30 p.m.; Kent Pekel, America's Choice, Inc., May 16, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; and Lisa Bouillion, U of Pennsylvania, May 18, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. All in 303 Coffman Union, UMTC. The director will work with U faculty and staff to improve public and private preK-12 educational systems, especially preparation of youth for higher education success. For more information, see http://www.academic.umn.edu/system/search/exec_dir_cpsas.html .

COMMUNITY RESOURCES FOR ELDERCARE will be the topic of Session 7 in a series for U employees who care for an elder who lives nearby or far away. Community resources can be critical in improving lifestyles. Sponsored by the U WorkLife Effectiveness Program and the Dakota Area Resources and Transportation for Seniors (DARTS). May 16, noon-1 p.m., 215 Donhowe and 155 Peters Hall, UMTC; available on interactive TV to UMD, UMM, and UMR. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/worklife/workshops.html .

GREAT CONVERSATION: "SOCIAL FORCES SHAPING RETIREMENT" will be the topic of a dialogue between Phyllis Moen, McKnight Presidential Chair in sociology and a pioneer in work-life issues research, UMTC, and Marc Freedman, founder and president of Civic Ventures, cofounder of Experience Corps, and author of Prime Time: How Baby Boomers Will Revolutionize Retirement and Transform America. May 16, 7:30 p.m., Ted Mann Concert Hall. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Great_Conversations_explores_the_changing_face_of_retirement.html .

THE INAUGURAL UPPER MIDWEST ASSOCIATION FOR CAMPUS SUSTAINABILITY (UMACS) conference, "Learning From Success: Steps Toward More Sustainable Campuses," will include UMM and UMTC students and staff participants. May 17-19, College of St. Benedict/St. John's U. For more information, see http://www.umacs.org and http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=333 .

SAVE THE DATE: THE ACADEMY OF DISTINGUISHED TEACHERS 2007 teaching and learning conference will be April 23, 2007, McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC. This U-wide conference will focus on best practices for teaching and learning. Watch for the call for proposals and registration information this summer. Sponsors include the UMTC Center for Teaching and Learning Services and Digital Media Center. For more information, contact Karen Zentner Bacig, [email protected] or 612- 624-5082.

Crookston:

SCHOLARSHIP FUND GROWS: Altru Health System will invest $22,500 in UMC students as part of a five-year commitment of scholarship support. A check for $4,500 was presented by the Grand Forks- based organization in a ceremony May 5. The first three scholarships begin this fall. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=280 .

AN ALL-DAY CONFERENCE ON HEALTH AND WELLNESS FOR WOMEN IN HIGHER EDUCATION will be the Minnesota ACE (American Council on Education) Network regional meeting. Professionals from regional colleges and universities as well as health organizations will participate, providing tips and techniques for maintaining a healthy work/home life balance. May 18; registration deadline May 12. For more information, see http://www.minnesotaacenetwork.org/events/calendar.php .

Duluth:

BACCALAUREATE COMMENCEMENT will be one of UMD's largest: more than 1,000 graduates will march with more than 100 faculty members. Jim Brandenburg, renowned nature photographer and filmmaker, will be awarded an honorary doctor of humane letters, and Harry Oden, '64, youth worker and educational leader, will receive an honorary doctor of laws degree, both presented by Chancellor Martin and Regent Baraga. May 13, noon, Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/news/2006/May/01-B.html .

GRADUATE COMMENCEMENT for 175 students will include featured speaker Dennis Falk, professor of social work and director of the Center for Regional and Tribal Child Welfare Studies, who last month received the U's Award for Outstanding Contributions to Graduate and Professional Education. May 11, 7 p.m., Romano Gymnasium. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/news/2006/May/02.html .

THE FIRST GRADUATING CLASS of the master's degree program in advocacy and political leadership (MAPL) includes 13 working adults from the Twin Cities, Duluth, and the Iron Range. MAPL is a weekend program that offers practical political advocacy experience and education with expertise from faculty members and guest speakers. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/news/2006/May/03.html .

RETIRING FACULTY MEMBERS at this academic year's end include James Belote, sociology/anthropology; Linda Belote, sociology/anthropology; James Fetzer, McKnight Professor of Philosophy; Craig Grau, political science; Linda Homstrand, biology; Andrew Klemer, biology; Eugene Ley, health, physical education, and recreation; and David Mayo, philosophy. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/news/2006/May/04-B.html .

Morris:

UMM HAS JOINED THE GLOBAL ISSUES HONORS CONSORTIUM, an endeavor of UMTC, Tougaloo College in Mississippi, and Dillard University in New Orleans, funded through the Andrew Mellon Foundation. The consortium aims to increase the number of highly qualified, well prepared students of color in graduate and professional programs in a variety of fields and with an international focus. For more information, see http://www.icgc.umn.edu/New Honors Info.htm .

UMM WAS AMONG MORE THAN 230 EXHIBITORS at the Living Green Expo May 6-7 at the State Fairgrounds. The Morris exhibit showcased its Green Campus initiatives, including the wind turbine, biomass project, service-learning initiatives, and Pride of the Prairie Local Foods Initiative. The expo is Minnesota's largest environmental event. For more information, see http://www.livinggreen.org and http://www.morris.umn.edu/greencampus .

Rochester:

COMMENCEMENT: The first radiation therapy and respiratory care baccalaureate classes, joint programs of Mayo School of Health Science and the U, will graduate May 12, 4 p.m., Phillips Hall, Siebens Education Building, Mayo Clinic. Graduates include four radiation therapists and 10 respiratory care specialists. For more information, see http://www.r.umn.edu .

TECHNOLOGY COMMERCIALIZATION AT THE U AND UMR EXPANSION will be the topics at the Rochester Area Alumni and Friends of the U of M (RAAFUM) annual meeting. The Academic and Corporate Center, Office of Business Development, includes a new office at UMR. The update on the UMR expansion proposal will be given by Marilyn Stewart, chair, Rochester Higher Education Development Committee. May 17, 7-9 p.m., HB 117, Heintz Center, UCR . For more information, see http://www.r.umn.edu .

Twin Cities:

GOPHER STADIUM RALLY AT THE CAPITOL THURSDAY: Tony Dungy, Golden Gopher great 1973-76 and current head coach of the Indianapolis Colts, will be in the Twin Cities this week to support bringing Gopher football back to campus. Stadium supporters are invited to stop by to meet Dungy, show their support, and try a Golden Gopher edition of the Krispy Kreme donut, compliments of the Maple Grove Krispy Kreme. May 11, 9:30-10:30 a.m., steps of the Minnesota State Capitol. For more information about efforts to bring Gopher football back to campus, see http://www.umn.edu/stadium .

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF THE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT drew more than 400 alumni and friends from around the world May 5-6. One hundred distinguished alumni were honored, and a special program concluded with a look to the future. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/CEHD_celebrates_centennial.html .

INTERIM CO-DEANS OF THE LAW SCHOOL will be professors Guy-Uriel Charles and Fred Morrison, effective June 1. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=2958&from=umnnews .

SUMMER ROAD CONSTRUCTION NEAR THE CAMPUS will include East River Parkway between Franklin and Yale avenues (until October) and between Arlington Street and Norris Hall (June 1-Aug. 29) and Como Avenue S.E. between 22nd and 24th avenues (until October). For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/pts/hottopics.htm .

ONE OF CHINA'S TOP AGRICULTURAL ECONOMISTS, Shenggen Fan, '89, will receive two U awards during a campus visit this week: the Distinguished Leadership Award for Internationals and the Applied Economics Outstanding Alumnus Award. Faculty, staff, students, and alumni are invited. May 12, 3 p.m. reception, 3:30 p.m. awards presentation, 143 Classroom Office Building, St. Paul; followed by a seminar, "Investing in Agriculture to Halve Poverty by 2015." Fan is the director of the Development Stategy and Governance Division in the Washington, D.C.-based International Food Policy Research Institute. For more information, see http://www.apec.umn.edu/Alumni_Award_Shenggen_Fan.html .

THE 15TH ANNUAL NESBIT LECTURE IN PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY will be "Curing Childhood and Adolescent Acute Myelogenons Leukemia (AML) at the Half-Way Point," presented by William Woods, M.D., Emory U and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. May 12, noon, 450 Cancer Center Research Building. For more information, see http://www.cancer.umn.edu/page/aboutus/NesbitLectureship.html .

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER SERIES HOST Lisa Ling will speak and show video and images on adventure, her personal success story, and the book she coauthored with U professor Joanne Eicher, Mother, Daughter, Sister, Bride, about women's rituals around the world. May 18, 7:30 p.m., State Theater, Minneapolis; for tickets, call 612-673-0404 or see http://ticketmaster.com . For more information, see http://www.nationalgeographic.com/nglive/minneapolis/ling.html .

"FRAMING THE ISSUES: FOCUS ON UNIVERSAL PRESCHOOL" will be the topic of the next program in the 2005-06 McEvoy Lecture Series on Early Childhood Education and Public Policy. Libby Doggett, national director of PreK Now, will speak. May 19, 1-4 p.m., Cowles Auditorium, Humphrey Center. Registration requested. For more information, see http://education.umn.edu/ceed/events/mmlectureseries .

MORE EVENTS include a preview reception for Bloom!, an exhibit of botanical art at the Bell Museum (May 11); "The Minneapolis Corridor Housing Initiative: Engaging Communities on Affordable Housing, Density, and Design" (May 12); "Diorama-rama" at the Bell (May 13); Minnesota Landscape Arboretum spring plant sale (May 13-14); "Reforming Medicare: Where Do We Go From Here?" one-day conference (May 15); James P. Houck Lecture on Food and Consumer Policy by Juan Enriquez-Cabot, Harvard U (May 16); and Stumbling on Happiness author and psychology researcher Daniel Gilbert, Harvard U (May 17). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (5-17-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_5172006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 19; May 17, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Next chancellor at UMM will be Jacqueline Johnson, beginning Aug. 1. --Distinguished McKnight University Professors honored May 11. --Health Connections four-month update: nearly 8,000 participating. --Civil Service Committee partnership beautifies a neighborhood walkway. --People: staff appointments in College of Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences.

Transforming the U

THE NEXT CHANCELLOR OF THE U OF M, MORRIS, will be Jacqueline Johnson, beginning Aug. 1. Johnson is currently VP for academic affairs and dean of the faculty at Buena Vista U in Storm Lake, Iowa. Johnson's record includes success in securing research funding, public support, and private gifts in support of strategic initiatives, as well as other strengths important for UMM. The regents approved her appointment May 12. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Incoming_chancellor.html .

DISTINGUISHED McKNIGHT U PROFESSORS SHINE: Chemistry professor Karin Musier-Forsyth encourages cells to make mistakes...cells in disease-causing bacteria, that is. She is one of four mid-career faculty members named this year as Distinguished McKnight University Professors who will each receive a $100,000 stipend over five years. She and Ilja Siepmann in chemistry, John Bischof in mechanical engineering, and Christopher Uggen in sociology were honored by the Board of Regents on May 11. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/New_McKnights_shineno_armor_needed.html .

HEALTH CONNECTIONS UPDATE. Four months after the launch of the U's first comprehensive wellness initiative, nearly 8,000 faculty, staff, and family members are participating in Health Connections. And the feedback is positive--even powerful. It's not too late to take the assessment or to get a financial reward for enrolling in a follow-up health improvement option. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_of_Human_Resources/ Health_Connections_strong_start.html .

CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE (CSC): Some civil service staff members got their hands very dirty on Beautiful U Day last month. The CSC partnered with the UMTC Office of University Relations and the West Bank Community Development Corporation (CDC) in Minneapolis to revitalize a garden and pave a walkway. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Civil_Service_Committee/ Down_and_dirty_for_a_beautiful_U.html .

PEOPLE: Lead staff members in central administration of the new College of Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences have been appointed; Polly Fry named to Minnesota Sesquicentennial Commission; UMM students win national 2006 President's Volunteer and Service Award and Upper Midwest Human Rights Fellowship Award. Read these news items and more about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

REVISED RECOMMENDATIONS FROM 11 MORE TASK FORCES ARE NOW POSTED, including four Academic Health Center, four academic, and two research task forces, and the task force on metrics and measurement. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Revised_recommendations_from_11_more_task_forces.html .

A CELEBRATION MAY 10 TO HONOR THE COMPLETION OF THE TASK-FORCE PHASE of the strategic positioning process was attended by more than 300 members of the task forces and other staff members engaged in support and communications. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Celebrating_success.html .

U POLICY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT: Don't forget to submit comments and suggestions by May 31. For more information, see http://process.umn.edu/groups/public/documents/form/polfeedback.cfm .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

THE BOARD OF REGENTS reviewed the proposed 2006-07 operating budget in meetings May 11-12 in preparation for a vote next month. In the proposal, tuition will increase at a systemwide average of 6.5%, for new rates ranging from $7,208 at UMC to $9,695 at UMM. Budget increases are due to rising health care and utility costs and the continuing need to retain and attract top faculty members. The regents also approved the promotion or tenure of 193 faculty members including Zha Blong Xiong, who became the first Hmong person to receive tenure at a major research university. To read the story in UMNnews, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Regents_meet_over_tuition_and_tenure.html .

THE REGENTS HEARD AN UPDATE ON THE ENTERPRISE FINANCIAL SYSTEM (EFS) project from cosponsors and associate VPs Mike Volna and Steve Cawley May 11. Plans to change the project's scope will enhance EFS and extend the project for one year. Currently, 75 team members are implementing 15 PeopleSoft financial modules in partnership with more than 100 representatives of the U financial community and business process owners. For more information, see http://www.finsys.umn.edu/EFS_Announce.htm .

THE U'S CLEAN ENERGY RESOURCE TEAMS (CERTs) statewide were named 2006 Environmental Partnership of the Year by the Minnesota Environmental Initiative, beating entrants including Best Buy and Target Corp. CERTs consist of six regional teams around Minnesota, which have each tailored a plan for a clean-energy future that makes the most of regional renewable resources and other technologies. CERT partners include the U's Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships, Minnesota Department of Commerce, Minnesota Project, and Southwest Regional Development Commission; they have engaged hundreds of citizens over the past three years. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=2990&from=umnnews .

NEW U POLICIES have been posted regarding bank accounts, cell phones, conferences services, and donated organs. Revised policies include openness in research, employee development and training, faculty leaves, and academic professional and administrative (P&A) staff leaves. For more information, see http://www.fpd.finop.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/main/new.cfm .

THE OFFICE OF THE VP FOR RESEARCH ANNOUNCES UPDATES to its review of research-related processes and policies. Process changes--in response to faculty and staff suggestions--are being implemented. For more information, see http://www.research.umn.edu/contact/suggestion_box/status.html .

THE NEXT CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE MEETING will be May 25, 9 a.m.-noon, 101 Walter Library, UMTC. All civil service staff are invited to attend; meetings are open to the public. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/csc .

STATE LEGISLATURE UPDATE: The Senate has named five members to a conference committee for an on-campus stadium at UMTC: Metzen (DFL, South St. Paul), Michel (R, Edina), Moua (DFL, St. Paul), Pogemiller (DFL, Minneapolis), and Tomassoni (DFL, Chisholm). When House members are named, an update will be posted at http://www.umn.edu/govrel .

Crookston:

LEADERS FROM ZHEJIANG ECONOMIC AND TRADE POLYTECHNIC (ZETP), Hangzhou, China, visited May 11-12 to learn more about UMC degree programs and how they will be delivered in China. In the fall, as part of the partnership established in 2005, UMC faculty members plan to travel to ZETP and ZETP students will attend UMC. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=285 .

Duluth:

FACULTY AWARD WINNERS FOR 2005-06 include Viktor Zhdankin, professor of chemistry, for the Jean G. Blehart Distinguished Teaching Award; Larry Knopp, professor of geography, for the Albert Tezla Teacher/Scholar Award; and a faculty member in each of UMD's five colleges for the Outstanding Faculty Adviser Awards: Tom Beery, instructor of health; Geoff Bell, assistant professor of management studies; Craig Grau, associate professor of political science; Vicky Lehman, assistant professor of art and design; and Bilin Tsai, professor of chemistry. The Chancellor's Distinguished Research Award to Barbara Elliott, professor of family medicine, was announced last month. For more information, see http://www.duluth.umn.edu/news/2006/May/04-A.html .

LAKE SUPERIOR EDUCATIONAL CRUISES will begin June 13; preregistration is required, and tours fill quickly. A View From the Lake cruises take citizens along with U of M Seat Grant water-quality specialists on three-hour trips to present research on climate change, storm water, and mercury pollution in the context of community planning and decision making. Participants collect water samples and see lake life. Ports of departure include Ashland, Wis. (June 13-14); Washburn, Wis. (June 16-17); Grand Marais, Minn. (June 23-25); Silver Bay, Minn. (June 27); Two Harbors, Minn. (July 14-15); and Duluth/Superior (July 6-8 and 20-22). For more information, see http://www.seagrant.umn.edu/vfl or call 218-726-8106.

Morris:

THE GOVERNOR OF LOUISIANA, Kathleen Blanco, will give the opening convocation at the First-Year Seminar Sept. 5, a year after her original engagement was cancelled due to Hurricane Katrina. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=344 .

Rochester:

NATIONAL BOOK CRITICS CIRCLE AWARD winner Anne Fadiman, author of The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down (1997), about the medical and cultural challenges of an epileptic Hmong child and her family, visited with 10 UMR respiratory care students May 8 before her public presentation at Mayo Clinic. To read more about the respiratory care program, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Inhaling_theory_and_practice.html (Jan. 26 feature).

MAYO CLINIC NATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON HEALTH CARE REFORM, held concurrently with the 2006 Public Health Institute, will allow students to register for one credit in a unique opportunity to be part of the forum of national leaders gathered to develop broad-based health care reform solutions. May 21, 5-9 p.m.; May 22, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; May 23, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street S.W., Rochester. Link to more information at http://www.sph.umn.edu/publichealthplanet/events/institute/2006S_special.html .

"MINDING THE GAP: OPPPORTUNITY FOR ALL AS A STRATEGY FOR ECONOMIC SUCCESS," with Bruce Katz, Brookings Institution VP and director of metropolitan policy, will be the topic of the next Minnesota Meeting, sponsored by the Minneapolis Foundation, Rochester Area Foundation, and UMR. ITV broadcast May 24, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Minneapolis Convention Center. For more information, see http://www.minnesotameeting.com .

Twin Cities:

"STEP UP" PROVIDES SUMMER JOBS FOR MINNEAPOLIS YOUTH. UMTC's goal is to identify 70 six- to eight-week opportunities on campus between June 19 and Aug. 25. For more information, contact the U's STEP UP liaison, Tex Ostvig, at [email protected] and see http://www.academic.umn.edu/system/communications/announce051506.html .

UMTC 2006 CIVIL SERVICE/BARGAINING UNIT (CSBU) STAFF DAY will be June 6, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Coffman Riverbend Plaza, Minneapolis, and St. Paul Student Center Terrace; and 6:30-8 p.m., Coffman Riverbend Plaza. Food will be served. Browse the information tables, meet coworkers, and listen to music. Staff must bring a coupon for gift and raffle; if you have not received a coupon card by May 26, call Mary Austin, 612-626-9462.

CAMPUS CLUB SUMMER HOURS, beginning this week, are 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. for lunch in the Servery and 11 a.m.-1 p.m. for full menu-service lunch (call 612-626-7788). Bar beverage and menu service is 1:30-7 p.m., Monday-Wednesday, and 1:30-8 p.m., Thursday-Friday. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/cclub .

SOME TICKETS REMAIN TO HEAR SANDRA DAY O'CONNOR, former Supreme Court justice, May 23, 8 p.m., Northrop Auditorium. For more information, see http://www.alumni.umn.edu/oconnor ; to order tickets, see http://www.northrop.umn.edu or call 612-624-2345.

"UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE: Access, Quality, and Affordability--Experiences and Best Practices in Germany and the USA" will be the topic of forums with experts, state and federal representatives, insurers, doctors, and pharmaceutical company officers, including Germany's minister of health, Ulla Schmidt. Sponsored by the Center for German and European Studies. June 5-6, McNamara Alumni Center and Humphrey Center. Deadline to register: May 22. For more information, see http://www.cges.umn.edu and http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=2971&from=umnnews .

MORE EVENTS include a talk and book signing by Nature's Restoration author Peter Friederici at the Bell Museum (today); adult education research conference (May 18-21); full-day conference on "The Risks Posed by New Biomedical Technologies: How Do We Analyze, Communicate, and Regulate Risk?" (May 19); BioBlitz (May 19-20); Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra (May 21); talks and book signings by Possible Side Effects author Augusten Burroughs (May 22) and DSI: Date Scene Investigation author Ian Kerner (May 23); and the 33rd annual Hayes Memorial Lecture, "What Do 10,000 Inquiring Minds Want From Graduate Education at the University of Minnesota?" by Graduate School dean Gail Dubrow (May 24). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (5-24-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_5242006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 20; May 24, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

Notice: Brief summer publication dates will be May 31, June 14, 28, July 12, 26, Aug. 9, 30. The deadline for submissions is the Friday before publication.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--State legislature approves bonding bill with $158.4 million for the U, funding for UMTC on-campus stadium, and supplemental appropriation for UMR. --2006 Distinguished Leadership Awards for Internationals honor alumni from six nations. --Why should kids have all the fun? Summer learning at the U for adults. --People: New business liaison at UMR; Fulbright scholarship to Norway.

Transforming the U --New dean of the College of Education and Human Development will be Darlyne Bailey.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

THE STATE LEGISLATURE APPROVED A BONDING BILL MAY 21 WITH $158.4 MILLION for new projects at the U--with $115.7 million from state funding and $42.7 million from U financing. The bill, which now awaits the governor's signature, includes an expansion to the Carlson School of Management at UMTC, a new Labovitz School of Business and Economics at UMD, a biomedical research building at UMTC, $3.5 million for research and outreach centers, and $300,000 for the Minnesota Poultry Testing Laboratory in Willmar. If Governor Pawlenty signs the bill, the U would also receive $30 million in Higher Education Asset Preservation and Replacement (HEAPR) funds for general repairs and maintenance projects. Also awaiting the governor's signature are

a bill to finance an on-campus stadium at UMTC a supplemental appropriation of $5 million to support academic programs at the U of M, Rochester a bill that will make the Honeycrisp apple, developed at the U, the state fruit

Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Legislature_approves_oncampus_football_stadium_for.html .

DISTINGUISHED LEADERSHIP AWARDS FOR INTERNATIONALS. Norwegian foreign affairs deputy director Jostein Mykletun, '72, '75, will be honored for professional achievement when a U delegation travels to Norway this week. He is one of six alumni from six nations to receive the award in 2006. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_honors_global_alumni.html .

WHY SHOULD KIDS HAVE ALL THE FUN? The U offers summer learning for adults, including Split Rock Arts Program, Curiosity Camps, Summer Public Health Institute, Catalyst Summer Institute, Plant Science Investigation, and more. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Why_should_kids_have_all_the_fun3F.html .

PEOPLE: New business liaison at UMR is Kent Spaulding; neuroscience doctoral student Adam Johnson has won the 2006-07 Fulbright Scholarship for the Graduate School's exchange with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. Read these news items and more about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

THE NEW DEAN OF THE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT (CEHD) will be Darlyne Bailey effective Oct. 1, pending approval by the regents. Bailey is currently VP of academic affairs and dean of Teachers College, Columbia U. She holds advanced degrees in psychiatric social work and organizational behavior and has published on topics related to education and human resources. General College, School of Social Work, and Department of Family Social Science will all become part of CEHD on July 1. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/New_CEHD_dean.html .

U POLICY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT, a comprehensive effort to ensure that policies support the U's mission and strategic goals, needs faculty and staff comments and suggestions for improving the policy framework. Deadline: May 31. For more information, see http://process.umn.edu/groups/public/documents/form/polfeedback.cfm .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

PRIVACY AND MOVEMENT will be the theme of the 17th annual Transportation Research Conference, featuring leading scholars in the fields of privacy, technology, and transportation as well as public administrators and officials. Walk-in registration is available. May 24-25, RiverCentre, St. Paul. For more information, see http://www.cts.umn.edu/events/rescon .

U OF M MOMENT this week features organic lawn care and gardening, organic farming in Minnesota, Better Hearing and Speech Month, and Glensheen Historic Estate. U of M Moments are 90-second daily radio features with U experts, carried by stations statewide. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3005&from=umnnews . Archives available at http://blog.lib.umn.edu/urelate/radio .

TUESDAY EVENINGS IN THE GARDEN at UMore Park are weekly classes with master gardeners in the six-acre international award-winning Master Gardener Education and Research Display Garden in Rosemount. Upcoming topics include bees, shrub roses, rain gardens, edible weeds and flowers, native woodland plants, and more. Through Sept. 12; spring garden tour June 6. For more information, see http://www.mggarden.umn.edu or 651-480-7700.

SUMMER ONLINE COURSES, Addressing Needs of Young Children Who Engage in Challenging Behavior (June 26-Aug. 28) and Introduction to Infant Mental Health (July 10-Sept. 1) will be offered by the Center for Early Education and Development. For more information, see "Courses/Training" at http://education.umn.edu/ceed .

THE LYRIC OPERA OF THE NORTH (LOON) production of Mozart's The Magic Flute will feature UMD students Mindy Zimmerman and Amy Hagensen as Queen of the Night as well as UMD faculty and students in the chorus and orchestra. LOON's founder and artistic director is UMTC doctoral candidate Ruth Jacobson. June 2-4, 7:30 p.m., Masonic Temple, 4 W. Second St., Duluth. For more information, see http://www.loonopera.com/loonopera2006/season2006.htm .

Crookston:

AMERICAN FEDERAL BANK, based in northwestern Minnesota and North Dakota, signed an agreement to provide scholarships for three years to UMC students in agricultural business and agricultural management. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=292 .

Duluth:

THE OFFICE OF TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH PROGRAMS (OTRP) new director is Eil Kwon, who returns to Duluth from the Minnesota Department of Transportation's (Mn/DOT) Office of Traffic Safety and Operations. OTRP is part of the College of Science and Engineering. In 2000, Kwon was a 3M McKnight Visiting Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and helped lay the groundwork for the Northland Advanced Transportation Systems Research Laboratories. In his new appointment, he will direct the laboratories and codirect the Great Lakes Maritime Research Institute. For more information, see the http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/May/01-A.html .

COMPUTER SCIENCE PROFESSOR Douglas Dunham, College of Science and Engineering, is one of 17 recipients nationally to receive the Outstanding Advising Certificate of Merit in the Faculty Academic Advising category from the National Academic Advising Association. The award recognizes outstanding academic student advising and advising administration. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/May/08.html .

Morris:

THE FIRST COMBINED MINNESOTA RURAL SUMMIT AND SYMPOSIUM ON SMALL TOWNS, "Working Better Together for the Common Good," will include a legislative panel, gubernatorial forum, networking events, tours, and other events on topics from renewable energy to immigration, focusing on ways to meet the urgent need for cross-sector and other types of cooperation. Fun activities will include the second annual storytelling contest, a picnic, a local-foods breakfast, and more. June 6-7, UMM. Registration deadline: May 30. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=355 .

Twin Cities:

CENTRAL CORRIDOR PUBLIC INPUT: The public is invited to comment on the draft environmental impact statement for the proposed light-rail project linking downtown St. Paul and Minneapolis. This project would connect UMTC to the airport, Capitol, and emerging regional rail system, including the Hiawatha line and North Star commuter rail. Public forum May 24, 6:30 p.m., Central High School, 275 N. Lexington Parkway, St. Paul. Open comment period through June 5. For more information, see http://www.centralcorridor.org .

GOPHER STADIUM BILL SIGNING: Faculty, staff, students, and U supporters are invited to witness Governor Pawlenty signing the bill that will bring football back on campus beginning in fall 2009. May 24, 3 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center. A short reception will follow. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/stadium .

STADIUM ARCHITECT PRESENTATIONS: Three finalists to design the proposed on-campus football stadium will make public presentations. May 24, Rapson Hall auditorium. 1:15-2:15 p.m., HNTB Architects; 2:15-3 p.m., Crawford Architects; 3:30-4:15 p.m., HOK Architects. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/stadium .

U CARD OFFICE IN COFFMAN UNION HAS NEW SUMMER HOURS: Starting June 1, office hours will be 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For other U Card office locations and hours, see http://www.umn.edu/ucard .

NEW COURSES IN BIOETHICS (BTHX) were introduced this spring; registration for fall courses is now open. Topics include social context of health and illness, introduction to clinical ethics, ethics of human subjects research, and biomedical ethics. For more information, see http://www.bioethics.umn.edu/education/courses.html .

FORMER U.S. SENATOR AND PEACE ENVOY George Mitchell, former ambassador Geri Joseph, former Minnesota Supreme Court chief justice Kathleen Blatz, North Point Health and Wellness Center CEO Gary Cunningham, photographer Wing Young Huie, and Citizens League president Sean Kershaw will be honored with 2006 Hubert Humphrey Public Leadership Awards. May 30, events beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets required; registration deadline: May 26. For more information, see http://www.hhh.umn.edu/news/leadership_awards or contact Lars Leafblad, [email protected] or 612-625-9588.

GOLD COUNTRY 5K RACE THROUGH CAMPUS with coaches and student athletes will include a special event for kids ages 4-12 and a Gopher Fan Fest with free food, games, and autographs. June 3, race start time 9:30 a.m., Bierman track. To register, see http://www.gophersports.com or call 612-624-8080.

BIRTH-TO-THREE PRACTITIONERS networking conference, sponsored by the Center for Early Education and Development (CEED), will focus on adult attachment as well as child attachment. June 15, 1-4:30 p.m., Minnetonka. Deadline to register: June 5. For more information, see http://www.education.umn.edu/CEED/projects/babysspace/mrpg.htm or contact [email protected] .

CAMPUS CLUB CAFE BAR, fourth floor of Coffman Union, is the only bar on campus. All faculty and staff are invited for happy hour, 3-6 p.m., Monday through Friday, through Sept. 1. Membership not required to visit the Cafe Bar. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/cclub/bar.html .

MORE EVENTS include "From Pearl Harbor to Helicopters: How to Lead in a Multigenerational Transportation Workplace" (May 24); Jonathan Balcombe, animal behavior research consultant and author of Pleasurable Kingdom: Animals and the Nature of Feeling Good (May 25); Women's Maintenance of Finland-Swedish Identity in North America (May 26); and Raptors of Minnesota (May 27-28). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (5-31-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_5312006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 21; May 31, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

Notice: Brief summer publication dates are June 14, 28; July 12, 26; Aug. 9, 30. The deadline for submissions is the Friday before publication.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Review: Sandra Day O'Connor returns to the U, addresses record-breaking UMAA crowd. --Doing the right thing: Ureport makes accountability easier. --Storytelling in the lesson plan: UMD Ojibwe language instructor David Aubid. --People: "Best Dissertation" Award winners, Women's Faculty Cabinet.

Transforming the U

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Duluth | Morris | Rochester | Twin Cities

SANDRA DAY O'CONNOR RETURNS TO THE U: When former Law School dean Robert Stein invited the first woman on the U.S. Supreme Court to the U in 1987, he saw first hand her powerful personal impact. Last week as president of the U of M Alumni Association volunteers, Stein--who announced he's returning to the classroom--helped to host O'Connor's address to a record-breaking UMAA celebration crowd. Read the story on the UMAA Web site at http://www.alumni.umn.edu/2006_Ann_Cel_Wrap .

DOING THE RIGHT THING: When a U employee saw something that seemed odd--more than once-- Ureport made it easy to report the problem and then check back to see what happened. Beginning last fall, Ureport streamlined the U's various hotlines into one, with a companion Web site and the convenience of 24-7 confidential service. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Do_the_right_thing.html .

STORYTELLING IN THE LESSON PLAN: David "Niib" Aubid finds storytelling essential to teaching Ojibwe language at UMD. Ojibwe--the mother tongue of the third-largest group of Native Americans in the United States--is one of nearly 40 languages taught across the U. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Storytelling_in_the_lesson_plan.html .

PEOPLE: "Best Dissertation" Award winners and advisers; Women's Faculty Cabinet members; two awards for Boynton director Ed Ehlinger. Read these news items and more about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

DEADLINE FOR U POLICY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT comments and suggestions is today. The project is a comprehensive effort to ensure that policies support the U's mission and strategic goals. For more information, see http://process.umn.edu/groups/public/documents/form/polfeedback.cfm .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

CIVIL SERVICE AND BARGAINING UNIT (CSBU) EMPLOYEES CELEBRATING employment milestones will be honored at the annual CSBU Employee Recognition Reception June 20 at Eastcliff. Honorees are those who have celebrated or will be celebrating work anniversaries of 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50 years of service between July 1, 2005, and June 30, 2006. Invitations were mailed to eligible employees on all campuses in mid-May. For more information, contact Wendy Williamson, [email protected] or 612-625-2516.

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS: DISTINGUISHED WOMEN SCHOLARS. The Ada Comstock Distinguished Women Scholars Lecture Series honors the scholarly accomplishments and leadership of U faculty women systemwide and offers a twice-yearly forum to share their insights and ideas with a U and community audience. The fall lecture will feature a faculty member from the sciences or engineering and the spring lecture a member from the humanities, arts, or social sciences. Selection is made by the Women's Faculty Cabinet. Deadline: June 15. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/women/awards.html .

WALK ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7: Wellness Walks at 1 p.m. continue on the first Wednesday of each month through September. U employees are invited to walk for 20 minutes on work time; those who can't may arrange with their supervisor to walk at another time. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/wellness .

ADVOCACY LEADERSHIP FOR VITAL AGING is a non-credit certificate program for adult learners who seek to apply their skills and experience to a community project or initiative that advances the vital aging movement and improves community life for all ages. In four years, the program has created more than 90 projects across Minnesota. The next class begins Sept. 8; deadline July 11. Scholarships available. For more information, see http://www.van.umn.edu .

TUTOR THROUGH THE MINNESOTA LITERACY COUNCIL. Help someone in your community learn English, become a U.S. citizen, earn a G.E.D., gain an adult diploma, learn basic computer skills, or learn to read. See a list of statewide programs at http://www.themlc.org/MLC_Associate_Program_List.html . For more information, see http://www.theMLC.org or call 651-645-2277.

U OF M MOMENT this week features support for veterans, The DaVinci Code, teen dieting, agarwood incense, and the Secret Gardens exhibition at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. U of M Moment is a 90-second daily radio feature with U experts, carried by stations statewide. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3021&from=umnnews . Archives available at http://blog.lib.umn.edu/urelate/radio .

SECRET GARDENS exhibition will feature gardens designed by 20 local and regional artists to encourage children's creative play. Grand opening celebration at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum June 3-4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Wandering_the_secret_gardens.html .

PAINTINGS BY THE LAKE COUNTRY PASTEL SOCIETY will be on display at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum April 12-June 25. Related classes are available. For more information, see http://www.arboretum.umn.edu .

Duluth:

A FARMERS MARKET ON CAMPUS, featuring fresh fruits, vegetables, cut flowers, and indoor/outdoor plants, will be sponsored again this year by the UMD Human Resources Wellness Campaign with the Sustainable Farmers Association. All produce is locally and sustainably grown. Wednesdays through mid-September, 2-4:30 p.m., Kirby Drive in front of Kirby Plaza. To receive a weekly e-mail reminder, with a list of participating growers and items for sale, contact [email protected] .

FINNFEST 2008, "Sharing the Spirit of Finland," will be held July 23-27, 2008, at UMD and the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center. Proceeds will support the FinnFest Scholarship, established from the success of FinnFest '92. An estimated 7,000 are expected to attend the five-day celebration in 2008. Honorary chairs are award-winning architect David Salmela and celebrated chef Beatrice Ojakangas.

Morris:

THE COUGAR FOOTBALL TEAM and supporters will travel to Italy in spring 2007. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=367 .

Rochester:

"HEALTH DISPARITIES IN MINNESOTA: A Matter of Life and Death," with Michael Trujillo, M.D., former director of the Indian Health Service and former Assistant U.S. Surgeon General, will be the topic of the next Minnesota Meeting, sponsored by the Minneapolis Foundation, Rochester Area Foundation, and UMR. Each event focuses on ending racial disparities in Minnesota and approaches the topic both as a social justice issue and a key strategy for maintaining economic competitiveness and quality of life. July 27, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Minneapolis Convention Center, ITV broadcast at UMR. For more information, see http://www.minnesotameeting.com .

EIGHT ONE-DAY COURSES ON THE BEST IN TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT will focus on improving on- the-job performance. Oct. 9-12 and Oct. 30-Nov. 2, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., UMR. Part of the Signature Series 2006. For more information, see http://www.r.umn.edu/Signature_Series_2006.htm .

Twin Cities:

CIVIL SERVICE/BARGAINING UNIT (CSBU) STAFF DAY will be June 6, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Coffman Riverbend Plaza, Minneapolis, and St. Paul Student Center Terrace; and 6:30-8 p.m., Coffman Riverbend Plaza. Food will be served. Browse the information tables, meet coworkers, and listen to music. Staff must bring a coupon for gift and raffle; if you have not received a coupon card, call Mary Austin, 612-626-9462.

U CARD OFFICE IN COFFMAN UNION will offer new office hours starting June 1: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. For U Card satellite locations and hours, see http://www.umn.edu/ucard .

MINUTECLINIC UPDATE: The MinuteClinic in Coffman Union is closed for the summer and will reopen Oct. 2. Twin Cities MinuteClinics in five Target stores are moving to CVS Pharmacies, which will have two exam rooms to save time and improve care. The clinic in the Nicollet Mall Target closes May 31, but the one in 5th Street Towers will remain open. Clinics will open June 1 in Blaine and Woodbury and June 22 in Maplewood, Moundsview, and Coon Rapids. For more information, see http://www.minuteclinic.com or call 866-389-2727.

PEDESTRIAN DETOUR FOR MAYO AUDITORIUM RENOVATION started May 30. Post office boxes from the auditorium foyer have moved to the lobby. Construction is scheduled for seven months.

"NATIVE DANCER, HONOR THE BEAT, AND SURVIVOR SUMMER CAMP: Games and Other Health Education Strategies for Native Youth" will be the last program in the School of Public Health 2006 Roundtable Series. Presenters will include Monte Fox, Diabetes Project coordinator, White Earth Tribal Council. June 7, 3:30-5 p.m., Humphrey Center atrium. Free. For more information, see http://www.sph.umn.edu/publichealthplanet/events/roundtable/home.html .

SUMMER AT NORTHROP FREE OUTDOOR CONCERT SERIES BEGINS JUNE 7 with jazz by Christine Rosholt. Opening festivities will be June 12, with guitar/mandolin and vocal duo Boyd Lee and Joe Cruz. Lineup of 24 concerts ranges from reggae and rock to salsa and light symphonic classic. Noon-1 p.m., Northrop plaza; in case of rain, inside the auditorium. For more information, see http://www.northrop.umn.edu .

MINNESOTA CENTENNIAL SHOWBOAT celebrates the 100th anniversary of Forty-five Minutes From Broadway, by George Cohan, with melodrama, audience interaction, and the showboat's signature olios. June 16-Aug. 26, Harriet island, St. Paul. For more information, see http://www.showboat.umn.edu .

MORE EVENTS include St. Paul campus bird walk (June 2 and 14); Gold Country 5K (June 3); Ecosystem Science and Sustainability Initiative workshop (June 4-6); Fifth Community GIS Exposition (June 5); Little Shop of Horrors in the Science on the Screen series (June 7); Educational Technologists Forum (June 8); "Remembering Rwanda Through Music," a concert with Jean Paul Samputo (June 10); Land of Lakes Choirboys Festival Concert (June 11); and "Fishing for Trouble?" at Cafe Scientifique (June 13). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (6-14-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_6142006.html. Vol. XXXVI No. 22; June 14, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

Notice: Brief summer publication dates are June 28; July 12, 26; Aug. 9, 30. The deadline for submissions is the Friday before publication.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--President's Award for Outstanding Service will honor 12 faculty and staff members June 15. --U delegation to Norway advanced cooperative work in biosciences, medicine, and technology. --Regents meeting review: budgets approved; reports from UMD and UMR. --People: Fulbright scholarship winners, UMC athletics appointments, awards for extension photographer Dave Hansen.

Transforming the U --Interim deans named for two reconfiguring colleges.

PRESIDENT'S AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE: Gary Wilson, head coach for women's cross country and track and field, Twin Cities campus, knows he's lucky to coach great students at a great university. But it's the people around him who end up feeling very lucky to experience Wilson's skill, compassion, and enthusiasm. He is one of 12 U faculty and staff members who will be honored June 15 for their outstanding commitment to the U. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Lucky_for_the_U.html .

U DELEGATION TO NORWAY May 25-June 2 advanced the exchange of graduate students working on six research teams--three teams on biofuels and three on food safety and bovine genomics. The delegation also focused on technology and medicine, visiting government officials and partner universities in Aas, Bergen, and Oslo. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_delegation_to_Norway.html .

REGENTS MEETING REVIEW: The board approved the 2006-07 operating budget and capital improvement budget for fiscal year 2007 and heard UMD and UMR strategic positioning updates. The regents recognized Sam Schuman, who will step down as chancellor of the Morris campus on June 30 after 11 years of service, and former U president Kenneth Keller, who was named president emeritus. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Regents_approve_budgets.html .

PEOPLE: Three more Fulbright scholarship winners are Catherine Kirchman, Luis Morera, and Rebecca Trotzky-Sirr; UMC has named Mike Roysland head women's basketball coach and Cathy Behr assistant athletic director; extension photographer Dave Hansen won Association for Communication Excellence awards. Read these news items and more about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

INTERIM DEANS for colleges reconfiguring July 1 are Kathryn VandenBosch for the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) and Terry Collins for the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD). For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3031&from=umnnews (CFANS) and http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3030&from=umnnews (CEHD).

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (DEHS) offers a new Web-based customer request system. DEHS FOCUS allows researchers to initiate a request for service about air quality, lab start-up/close-out, chemical concerns, hazmat transportation, workplace safety, and other issues. More e-forms will be added. To use the service, see http://www.dehs.umn.edu/forms . For more information about the system, call 612-626-6002.

PEOPLESOFT VERSION 8.9 UPGRADE BEGINS JULY 15 and will be complete for end users July 24. During the upgrade, view-only access will be available for all PeopleSoft users. You may have received notice already about training for the new system or you will receive specific communications soon. It is essential to attend all required training, whether working with Admissions, Student Records, Student Financials, or HRMS. If you have questions about Admissions, call 612-625-2853; Student Records and Student Financials, call 612-625-2803; HRMS, call the Office of Human Resources Call Center, 612-625-2016.

MAKING OUR MARK, the U's graphic standards manual, is now available in print and online at http://www.brand.umn.edu . Standards were developed by U Relations in cooperation with colleges and administrative departments. They address consistent use of the U's wordmark, logos, and colors. Workshops will be held. June 21, 9 a.m., 105 Cargill Building, St. Paul. June 29, 3 p.m., 101 Walter Library, Minneapolis. Register by calling 612-624-6868.

DO YOU KNOW A FACULTY MEMBER WHO HAS MADE OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS to undergraduate or graduate education at the U? Consider nominating him or her for the Horace T. Morse-U of M Alumni Association Award for Outstanding Contributions to Undergraduate Education or the Award for Outstanding Contributions to Postbaccalaureate, Graduate, and Professional Education. Exceptional faculty members in all U units are eligible. Nominations may be made by students, administrators, or other faculty members in coordination with collegiate deans' offices or the vice chancellors' offices at UMC and UMM. Guidelines for 2006-07 will be available in September; for now, see the 2005-06 guidelines at http://www.academic.umn.edu/provost/awards/aoce.html . For more information, contact Robin Matross Helms at [email protected] or 612-626-5598.

NEXT CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE MEETING will include Dann Chapman, director of human resources benefits, and Kathleen O'Brien, VP for University Services, with updates on strategic positioning. All civil service staff are invited, and meetings are open to the public. June 29, 9 a.m.-noon, Rooms B and C, Campus Club, Coffman Union, UMTC. For more information, including the agenda, see http://www.umn.edu/csc .

U OF M MOMENT, the 90-second daily radio feature with U experts, recently featured the Honeycrisp apple, newly designated state fruit developed at the U; North Shore streams; pet first-aid; coffee and heart disease; and "the new retirement." Upcoming topics include bioengineering petroleum; a UMD Web site about methamphetamine; and the UMTC Showboat production, Forty-five Minutes From Broadway. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=3062&from=umnnews . Archives available at http://blog.lib.umn.edu/urelate/radio .

Crookston:

COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF UMC INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS PROGRAM is moving ahead this summer with a 19-member athletic review committee. The group will report to Chancellor Casey Nov. 1. UMC is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II. The review is a byproduct of the strategic positioning task force report and recommendations submitted in March. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/newsstory.aspx?ID=294 .

THE FIRST COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT between the U and the University Education Association (UEA) Crookston campus faculty was approved by the Board of Regents June 9. The agreement covers the 2005-06 fiscal year; negotiations for the period July 1, 2006, to June 30, 2009, are continuing.

SEPARATE AGRONOMY AND HORTICULTURE bachelor of science programs, as well as a new freestanding horticulture minor, were approved by the regents June 9 to begin this fall. This separated UMC's plant industries management program into two stand-alone degrees, each with two track options: in agronomy--agronomic science or crop production; in horticulture--production horticulture or environmental landscaping.

Duluth:

WELLS FARGO BANK DULUTH made a gift of $265,250 to support the financial markets lab in the Labovitz School of Business and Economics. The financial markets program is an innovative learning environment that encourages students to develop their own methodologies to analyze financial markets. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/June/08.html .

SUMMER KINDERMUSIK AT UMD will be presented by the Fine Arts Academy, with music and movement classes for infants and children. Registration is open for classes in June, July, and August. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/faa or call Lisa at 218-726-8672.

"LIGHT FROM SHADOWS: Cultural Critique Reflected in Personal Expression," a joint exhibition of paintings by artists Po-Lin Kosuth, Stephen Ljubovic, and Sterling Rathsack, challenges popular perceptions about the meaning and composition of contemporary U.S. society. Through Aug. 31, Tweed Museum of Art. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/tma or contact [email protected] .

Morris:

CHANCELLOR SCHUMAN WAS HONORED BY THE REGENTS June 9 as he prepared to step down June 30. "Parting is such sweet sorrow," he responded, quoting Shakespeare--sorrow to leave, but "it's been sweet to be part of this great university and its shining star at the Morris campus." Schuman was praised by Gov. Pawlenty and commended by the Minnesota Senate last month for his years of dedication and commitment. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=361 .

A TRAVELING EXHIBIT ABOUT THE UMM HISTORIC DISTRICT, placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003, is on display at the Stevens County Historical Museum through July 13. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 116 W. Sixth Street, Morris. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=370 .

Rochester:

FOURTH ANNUAL UMR CELEBRITY BIRTHDAY BASH fund-raiser will honor Joe and Jo Gibilisco and support UMR student scholarships. Admission is free, but guests are asked to consider a donation. June 26, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Rochester International Event Center, 7333 Airport View Drive S.W., Rochester, MN 55902. For more information, see http://www.r.umn.edu/14_Events_Chronological.htm .

Twin Cities:

ARCHITECTURAL FIRM FOR THE GOPHER FOOTBALL STADIUM, announced June 8, will be HOK Sport of Kansas City, Mo., designer of Baltimore's Camden Yards and other stadiums. Construction is expected to begin next summer and take about two years to complete, opening in time for the 2009 football season. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_announces_architects_for_football_stadium.html .

CIVIL SERVICE AND BARGAINING UNIT STAFF CAN PICK UP STAFF DAY GIFTS with an invitation card or staff ID card (not a neck tag/departmental ID) June 14-16, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. In Minneapolis, first-floor hallway, Burton Hall, East Bank. In St. Paul, 203 Kaufert Labs. You must pick up your gift on the campus where your department is housed. After June 16, e-mail [email protected] .

"THE BODY ON DISPLAY: CONTROVERSIES AND CONVERSATIONS" is a four-part community forum with U experts to discuss the scientific, cultural, and ethical aspects of anatomy and the preservation of human specimens. The series was inspired by Body Worlds, the exhibit by Gunther von Hagens at the Science Museum of Minnesota this summer. June 28, July 6, 12, and 19, 7-8:30 p.m., Weisman Art Museum. Free and open to the public, but space is limited. For more information and to register for one or more sessions, see http://www.ahc.umn.edu/outreach/bodyondisplay .

MINNESOTA ROCKS! is an international stone-carving symposium featuring sculptors creating works from granite, limestone, dolomite, and other Minnesota rocks. The event is supported by the Minnesota Geological Survey, part of the U's Winchell School of Earth Sciences. Through June 30, St. Paul. Read the story in UMNnews at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Man2C_woman2C_and_rock.html .

CARMIKE MOVIE TICKETS are on sale for $5.50 at the information desks in Coffman Union and the St. Paul Student Center and Gopher Express West, while supplies last. The three locations also offer discount tickets for many other movie theaters, Valleyfair, and the Minnesota Zoo. For more information, see http://www.coffman.umn.edu/info .

MORE EVENTS include "The Link Between Violence and HIV," a roundtable discussion (June 14); RefWorks bibliographic management service demo (June 15); public reception for the North American Graduate Art Survey (NAGAS) exhibit at the Nash Gallery (June 16, runs through July 14); Miss Minnesota scholarship pageant (June 17); German documentary filmmaker Marco Wilms (June 18); 2006 Naomi C. Chase Lecture in Children's Literature by illustrator Barry Moser (June 20); journalist Lisa Phillips on her new book, Public Radio: Behind the Voices (June 22); the Campus Club's second annual ice cream social (June 23); Twin Cities Gay Men's Chorus at Ted Mann Concert Hall (June 23-24); Consumer Heath Spotlight: MedlinePlus demo (June 27); and The Chair: 125 Years of Sitting, an exhibit at the Goldstein Museum of Design (through Sept. 3). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (6-28-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_6282006.html. Vol. XXXVI No. 23; June 28, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

Notice: Brief summer publication dates are July 12, 26; Aug. 9, 30. The deadline for submissions is the Friday before publication.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Transforming graduate education: winners of the Innovative Ideas competition. --CSBU employees honored for years of service at milestone celebration June 20. --People: Consortium for Postsecondary Academic Success executive director, and more.

Transforming the U --General College vision champions innovation, dedication to access. --President's Emerging Leaders: Participants celebrate 2005-06 projects, aligned with strategic positioning.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

TRANSFORMING GRADUATE EDUCATION: The College of Veterinary Medicine's Mark Rutherford hated the thought that the U was losing out because applicants to his grad program didn't know about related programs that could be a great fit. His idea to help solve the problem won first prize in the Graduate School's first Innovative Ideas competition. Other winning ideas aim to increase Ph.D. retention rates and to increase interdisciplinary mobility for the faculty. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Innovating_to_transform_graduate_education.html .

CIVIL SERVICE AND BARGAINING UNIT (CSBU) EMPLOYEES HONORED: Arthur Galbraith, '66, joined the staff as a junior scientist the same year he graduated. Forty years later, he's still working for the same world-renowned professor and says he'd do it all over again. Galbraith and about 130 others attended a celebration at Eastcliff June 20 for CSBU staff members marking milestones of 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 years at the U. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Celebrating_milestones.html .

PEOPLE: Kent Pekel has been named executive director of the new Consortium for Postsecondary Academic Success; UMM's Margaret Kuchenreuther wins Shoreland Habitat Restoration Program grant. Read these news items and more about people at the U at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

THE GENERAL COLLEGE VISION: As General College joins the College of Education and Human Development July 1, its vision will live on and expand through the new Department of Postsecondary Teaching and Learning. A book published during GC's final year distills wisdom gained during more than 70 years of innovation. Hallmarks are dedication to first-year student success and infusing multiculturalism across the curriculum. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/A_vision_for_the_future.html .

PRESIDENT'S EMERGING LEADERS: Five teams celebrated the end of their 2005-06 projects June 19. All focused on topics that emerged through the U's strategic positioning process: (1) models for organizational transformation and benchmarking, (2) electronic communications with students, (3) hours of operation, (4) performance management and career mobility, and (5) transforming U culture. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Emerging_leaders_forge_ahead.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

NEW ONLINE U EMPLOYMENT SYSTEM lets you manage and edit your application online, search for positions by keyword, apply for multiple job openings and attach supporting documents, get confirmation of applications received, and track status of both your application and the position for which you applied...all without mailing, faxing, or submitting paper documents. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/employment .

FLEXIBLE-SPENDING ACCOUNT REIMBURSEMENT DELAYS IN MID-JULY: Due to an upgrade of the U's PeopleSoft system, processing of health care and dependent care flexible-spending account claims will be delayed slightly in mid-July. Eligible claims received July 12 will be reimbursed as usual on July 18. Claim forms received July 13-26 will be reimbursed Aug. 1. No day care or health care reimbursements will be paid on July 25. As usual, participants in the dependent care flexible- spending account need to have funds available in their account on Aug. 1 to be reimbursed at that time. For more information, call Employee Benefits, 612-624-9090 or 1-800-756-2363, option 3.

WALK ON WEDNESDAY, JULY 5: Wellness walks at 1 p.m. continue on the first Wednesday of each month through September. U employees are invited to walk for 20 minutes on work time; those who can't may arrange with their supervisor to walk at another time. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/wellness .

ENTERPRISE FINANCIAL SYSTEM (EFS) CONFERENCE-ROOM PILOT MEETINGS are in progress. By the end of June, 50 pilot sessions will be completed at UMTC to validate 170 of the proposed U-wide business processes using PeopleSoft financials software. In the pilots, subject-matter experts and business-process owners working with the eight project teams give feedback as team members walk through the processes on-screen. Read more at http://www.finsys.umn.edu/EFS_New.htm .

DO YOU KNOW AN OUTSTANDING ADVISER who has made a difference in students' lives? Consider nominating him or her for the John Tate Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Advising. Exceptional faculty members, academic advisers, and career advisers in all U units are eligible. Nominations may be made by students, administrators, or other faculty members in coordination with collegiate deans' offices or the vice chancellors' offices at UMC and UMM. Guidelines for 2006- 07 will be available in September; for now, see the 2005-06 guidelines at http://www.academic.umn.edu/provost/tate/forms.html . For more information, contact Robin Matross Helms at [email protected] or 612-626-5598.

U OF M MOMENT 90-second daily radio features with U experts this week will include the Minnesota wine trail and the strip-tillage expo. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3094&from=umnnews . Archives available at http://blog.lib.umn.edu/urelate/radio .

MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM AUXILIARY GARDEN TOURS will feature four private country gardens not previously seen by the public. July 9, 11, and 12. Tickets $30-$55 depending on day. Space is limited; call 952-443-1400, ext. 7052. For more information, see http://www.arboretum.umn.edu/calendar/july.htm .

Crookston:

NATIVE MINNESOTA PRAIRIE is now growing at UMC. Three-inch thick sod was collected from a prairie tract owned by Dan Svedarsky, head of the natural resources department, and added to the Nature Nook of several ecosystems, including boreal forest, oak savannah, and deciduous forest. The newly cut sod replaces Kentucky bluegrass and features more than 50 species of native plants and grasses, giving students access to hands-on research opportunities. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews .

MORE THAN 200 ALUMNI AND FRIENDS of the former Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA) returned for the annual reunion at UMC June 23-24. They celebrated Top Aggie Award winners, heard about what's new on campus, shared memories, caught up with old friends, and supported UMC efforts to serve northwest Minnesota. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story300.html .

Duluth:

UMD SIEUR DU LUTH SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL opens today with the hilarity of theater alumnus Adam Hummel's Fooling the Beard. June 28-July 2, July 5-7, 7:30 p.m.; July 8, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Marshall Performing Arts Center. Tickets $12; $6 for students and children. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/sfa/sumarts .

DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC presents the gentle tones of the Arrowhead Chorale with faculty and guests. July 10, 17, and 31, 7:30 p.m., Weber Music Hall. Tickets $14; $7 for children and students. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/artent .

WILD RICING MOON, the 89-foot sculpture designed by John David Mooney, was completed this month near the new Swenson Science Building. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/June/02.html .

SEE UMD NEWS RELEASES at http://www.d.umn.edu/news .

Morris:

TWELVE STUDENTS FROM JIASHAN, CHINA, will join nearly 25 students from the Midwest, experiencing campus life during UMM's annual Summer Scholars Program July 9-21. The Chinese students will study globalization and language and visit Morris health care, banking, and city government facilities; Midwest students will attend two courses, From Avian Flu to Ebola Zaire: The Reemerging Threat of Infectious Disease, and Talking About a Revolution: Dissent and Freedom of Expression in Today's World. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/cerp/summer_scholars .

WEST CENTRAL SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE (WCSA) classes of '46, '51, '56, and '61 will be among those gathering for the all-school reunion July 15. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=389 or contact the Office of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving, 320-589-6066.

EIGHTH ANNUAL FRIENDS OF COUGAR FOOTBALL GOLF TOURNAMENT will begin July 7, 11 a.m., Geneva Golf Club, Alexandria. Scramble format; all proceeds will benefit Cougar football. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/athletics/football/2006_News/Golf_Trny.htm or contact coach Ken Crandall, [email protected] or 320-589-6432.

Twin Cities:

FARMERS MARKET RETURNS JULY 12: UPlan Wellness will sponsor the market on Wednesdays through Aug. 30, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Church Street mall, East Bank. On July 12, complimentary tote bags will be given to the first 1,000 customers. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Farmers_market_returns_to_TC_campus.html .

PARKING AND BUS PASS RATES FOR 2006-07: Daily parking rates will rise to $3.50 (standard), $5.25 (premium and off-peak), and $2.25 (carpool). Contract rates will rise $1-$3 per month. Meters and hourly facility rates will remain the same. U-Pass and Metropass fees will rise $2, to $62, beginning with the fall passes. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/pts/parkingrates.htm and http://buspass.umn.edu .

U CARD AS A CALLING CARD: Effective July 1, use your U Card as a calling card from any phone. Residential rates are five cents per minute interstate and nine cents per minute within Minnesota. For more information, follow the links to U Card Calling at http://www.umn.edu/ucard .

GOLDEN GOPHERS WILL BE PART OF THE NEW BIG TEN TV CHANNEL beginning in August 2007. The channel will provide greater local and national television coverage of U sports and distribute advertising revenue to participating schools. Each institution will also have 60 hours of academic programming per year on the channel. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Gopher_athletics_to_be_part_of_new_Big_Ten_Channel.html .

CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW EQUINE TREATMENT AND RESEARCH CENTER will begin later this summer in the northeast section of the campus in St. Paul. A groundbreaking will be held Aug. 9, and the project is scheduled to be complete in fall 2007. For more information, see http://www.cvm.umn.edu/newsandevents/EquineCenter.html .

ASIAN FILM SERIES, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Indian films with English subtitles, will be presented by the Institute for Advanced Study's Asian Film Collaborative. Thursdays beginning June 29, 7 p.m., 125 Nolte Center. Free and open to the public; refreshments will be served. For more information, see http://www.ias.umn.edu/calendar.php or http://www.all.umn.edu .

INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON AGGRESSION MEETING will be hosted by the Department of Pediatrics and the U Children's Hospital at Coffman Union, July 25-29. Oral and poster presentations and sessions will cover a broad range of biological, psychological, and social aspects of aggression theory and intervention. For more information, see http://www.israsociety.com/2006meeting .

FIRST INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ANIMALS IN ORGANIC PRODUCTION will be hosted by the U Aug. 23-25. The International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) will bring leading organic livestock researchers and producers to share state-of-science findings and information. Speakers will include Temple Grandin, Gene Hugoson, Fred Kirschenmann, Jim Riddle, Mette Vaarst, and David Wallinga. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3075&from=umnnews .

MORE EVENTS include "A Minnesota Vision for Ethics Reform in Washington," by Amy Klobuchar (June 29); iced tea for wellness walkers at the Campus Club (July 5); Old Four Eyes: A Mississippi Panorama on the Minnesota Centennial Showboat (July 10); and "The Business of Government," by Russell Chew, Federal Aviation Administration, at the Carlson School's First Tuesday luncheon (July 11). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (7-12-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_7122006.html. Vol. XXXVI No. 24; July 12, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

Notice: Brief summer publication dates are July 26; Aug. 9, 30. The deadline for submissions is the Friday before publication.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--U employment system for hiring and applying is now all online. --Civil Service Committee: 2005-06 chair recaps the year and passes the gavel. --People: Susan Wolf named McKnight Presidential Professor, and more. --Recent features: Carlson School dean Alison Davis-Blake, associate athletics director Leo Lewis, summer orientation at UMTC, and UMD big band plays Europe's jazz festivals.

Transforming the U --UMTC colleges made official transition from 20 to 17 on July 1. --Alumni chapter realignment.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

NEW ONLINE U EMPLOYMENT SYSTEM: Every year, more than 50,000 job applications are submitted for positions in the University system. Last month, the U's employment system went entirely online with a goal of reducing hiring times by two to three weeks. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_of_Human_Resources/U_hiring_system_goes_online.html .

CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE (CSC): 2005-06 chair Matt Bowers recaps the year and passes the gavel to 2006-07 chair Peg Wolff. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Civil_Service_Committee/Passing_the_gavel_for_200607.html .

PEOPLE: Susan Wolf has been named McKnight Presidential Professor of Law, Medicine, and Public Policy; Kris Lockhart was named assistant VP in the Office for the VP for Equity July 10; Julie Sweitzer will become a special assistant in the Office of the VP for System Academic Administration in mid-July. Read these news items and more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

RECENT FEATURES ON THE U OF M HOME PAGE:

"Open book," Q&A with Alison Davis-Blake, new dean of the Carlson School of Management: http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Open_book.html "Looking out for student athletes," Q&A with Leo Lewis, alumnus, former pro football player, and, since December, the U's associate athletics director for student athlete development: http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Looking_out_for_student_athletes.html "Home away from home," a look at the U's award-winning summer orientation programs for new UMTC students and their parents: http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Home_away_from_home.html "Big band tours Europe," about the UMD's Jazz Ensemble I at the oldest (Montreux) and biggest (Rotterdam) jazz festivals in Europe: http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Big_band_tours_Europe.html

Transforming the U:

ON JULY 1, THE NUMBER OF UMTC COLLEGES went from 20 to 17. The move--involving more than 10,000 faculty, staff, and students--is designed to increase curriculum quality and selection, promote more collaborative research, gain efficiency, and save an estimated $3 million or more over the next two to three years. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/A_transforming_U_takes_shape.html .

ALUMNI SOCIETY REALIGNMENT: With the restructuring of six UMTC colleges into three, the U of M Alumni Association (UMAA) announced changes including new alumni societies for the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences and College of Design. General College alumni members are now members of the College of Education and Human Development Alumni Society. The School of Social Work retains a separate alumni society. Read more at http://www.alumni.umn.edu/society_changes .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

REGENTS' JULY MEETING IS TODAY. Agenda items include resolutions creating a center for allied health programs in Rochester and tuition waivers for war orphans, updates on academic and administrative strategic positioning recommendations, and a presentation by VP Carrier on the role of deans and a comprehensive review process piloted this year. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3114&from=umnnews .

CENTER FOR EARLY EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT (CEED) is developing certificate programs aimed at two groups of professionals who work with children from birth to age five: frontline workers and mental health professionals. For more information or to express interest in being involved, see the Infant Mental Health Web site at http://education.umn.edu/ceed/imhinterest.htm .

REMINDER: FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT REIMBURSEMENT DELAYS THIS MONTH. Due to the U's PeopleSoft upgrade, processing of health care and dependent care flexible spending account claims will be delayed slightly in mid-July. Eligible claims received today will be reimbursed as usual on July 18. Claim forms received July 13-26 will be reimbursed Aug. 1. No day care or health care reimbursements will be paid on July 25. As usual, participants in the dependent care flexible spending account need to have funds available in their account on Aug. 1 to be reimbursed at that time. For more information, call Employee Benefits, 612-624-9090 or 1-800-756-2363, option 3.

TAKE TIME THIS SUMMER: DO YOU KNOW A FACULTY MEMBER who has made outstanding contributions to undergraduate or graduate education at the U? Consider nominating him or her for the Horace T. Morse-U of M Alumni Association Award for Outstanding Contributions to Undergraduate Education or the Award for Outstanding Contributions to Postbaccalaureate, Graduate, and Professional Education. Exceptional faculty members in all U units are eligible. Nominations may be made by students, administrators, or other faculty members in coordination with collegiate deans' offices or the vice chancellors' offices at UMC and UMM. Guidelines for 2006- 07 will be available in September; for now, see the 2005-06 guidelines at http://www.academic.umn.edu/provost/awards/aoce.html . For more information, contact Robin Matross Helms at [email protected] or 612-626-5598.

BOTANY BEAUTIFUL: An exhibit of the Minnesota School of Botanical Art (MSBA) is on display at the Reedy Gallery, Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Through Sept. 17; reception July 16, 2-4 p.m.; gallery demonstration by MSBA founder Marilyn Garber Aug. 20; introduction to drawing prairie plants Sept. 9. For more information, see http://www.arboretum.umn.edu/whtsnw/Reedy_gallery_botany.htm .

INFO-U OFFERS SUMMER PRODUCE TIPS AND RECIPES at http://www.extension.umn.edu/info-u and 800-525-8636. By phone, press 780 for Minnesota Wild Fruits: the recorded message includes jam, jelly, and sauce recipes and cooking times. To talk to an Extension AnswerLine expert about what to do with summer produce, press 800. To get a free Answer Services brochures with hundreds of topics and phone numbers, send name and contact information to [email protected] . Recordings available in English, Hmong, Somali, and Spanish.

U OF M MOMENT 90-second daily radio features with U experts this week will include organic farming in Minnesota and teen dieting. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3108&from=umnnews .

Crookston:

MORE THEN 130 AREA YOUTH are on campus this week for the Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) Camp. Teens 16-18 participate in a week of intense leadership training that includes challenging physical and mental activities, regional speakers, and discussions on topics such as managing community service projects, becoming role models for friends facing decisions on issues such as drinking and drug use and abuse, and resolving family, social, and professional conflicts. RYLA Camp is sponsored by Rotary International, District 5580, Crookston. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/camps/ryla.htm .

YOUTH AT WHITE EARTH RESERVATION in grades 5 through 8 explored parallels between indigenous and Western science through hands-on, culturally relevant experiences at a four-week summer camp June 5-30 led by the U of M Extension Service and staffed by UMC natural resources faculty members. For more information and photos, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews .

Duluth:

MARKETING DEPARTMENT was established July 1 in the Labovitz School of Business and Economics (LSBE). Formerly part of management studies, marketing grew from 68 majors in 1999 to 224 in fall 2005 and is now the largest major in LSBE. Associate professor Praveen Aggarwal is department head. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/June/26.html .

LARGE LAKES OBSERVATORY (LLO) HAS A NEW ITRAX X-RAY SCANNER, developed in Sweden, which will allow researchers to study past climate change as recorded in lake sediments. Current LLO projects include lakes in East Africa, Central Asia, and North America. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/June/23-A.html . The LLO hosted 250 world researchers at the 10th International Paleolimnology Symposium June 25-29, the first in the United States. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/June/23-B.html .

THE ROCK OPERA GODSPELL will be presented by the combined talents of the theater and music departments as part of the School of Fine Arts' Sieur Du Luth Summer Arts Festival. July 13-16 and 18-22, 7:30 p.m., and July 23, 2 p.m., Marshall Performing Arts Center. $14 for adults, $7 for students and children. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/sfa/sumarts or call 218- 726-8561.

Morris:

UMM HAS BEEN RECOGNIZED AS AN ALL-STEINWAY SCHOOL by piano maker Steinway & Sons. Only four schools in Minnesota have earned the designation. UMM has purchased Steinways since the Humanities Fine Arts building was completed in 1971; its original four pianos passed the inspection "with flying colors." For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php?newsID=393 .

Twin Cities:

FARMERS MARKET STARTS TODAY and continues on Wednesdays through Aug. 30, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Church Street mall, East Bank. Complimentary tote bags will be given to the first 1,000 customers today. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/wellness/market .

HOSTS ARE NEEDED FOR COLLEGE-AGE INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS who will attend an on-campus orientation program in St. Paul Aug. 7-9. Hosts are asked to provide room and board as well as transportation to and from the program, which works conveniently around work schedules. Hosts give students a reassuring welcome and make an international acquaintance without leaving home. To host a trainee or two, contact Susan VonBank, MAST International, [email protected] or 612- 624-3740.

LUNCH NEVER SOUNDED SO GOOD: Catch the last two weeks of free outdoor concerts in the Summer at Northrop series, including Ellington echoes, bluegrass and Dixieland, world music, international folk dance, Cajun, and acoustic blues and swing. July 17, 19-20, 24-26, noon-1 p.m., Northrop plaza. For more information, see http://www.northrop.umn.edu .

CAMPUS CLUB events coming up include the Health Sciences Orchestra (July 17), wine dinner on the terrace (July 20), and the Terrace Grill on Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/cclub/news.html .

MORE EVENTS include Xcel Energy Raptor Bowl to benefit the Raptor Center (today); publication release reception and reading for the first issue in Volume 8 of Mizna, local Arab-American literary journal (July 14); "Useful Plants" field trip (July 16); U professor of medicine Steven Miles discussing his new book, Oath Betrayed: Torture, Medical Complicity, and the War (July 18); lecture and book signing by former Nixon White House counsel John Dean (July 20); Queen of the Lakes coronation (July 21); "Leadership: Strengthening Organizations and Communities" conference (July 24); International Society for Research on Aggression meeting (July 25-29); and Old Four Eyes: A Mississippi River Panorama, by Kevin Kling, on the Minnesota Centennial Showboat (this week through Aug. 23). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (7-26-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_7262006.html. Vol. XXXVI No. 25; July 26, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

Notice: Brief summer publication dates are Aug. 9 and 30. The deadline for submissions is the Friday before publication.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Three new Regents Professors are Megan Gunnar, Kathryn Sikkink, and Donald Truhlar. --Center for Allied Health Programs approved by regents to deliver statewide education. --People: Kvavik named associate VP for planning, Bellamy is McKnight Foundation distinguished artist, and more.

THREE NEW REGENTS PROFESSORS are Megan Gunnar, child development; Kathryn Sikkink, political science; and Donald Truhlar, chemistry. The appointments bring the number of Regents Professors to 23, with the goal of increasing the number to 30 by 2010. Read about Gunnar in the first of three profiles, which describes her work as a world leader in the study of children and stress, at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Leading_in_the_study_of_children_and_stress.html .

CENTER FOR ALLIED HEALTH PROGRAMS will expand statewide access to a variety of allied health care education programs--including occupational therapy and medical technologist training--to meet critical needs. A plan for the innovative center, in partnership with the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system, was approved by the Board of Regents July 12. A learner-centered hybrid curriculum will be launched in fall 2007. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Center_expands_training_in_critical_health_professions_statewide.html .

PEOPLE: Robert Kvavik has been appointed associate VP for planning; Lou Bellamy, theater arts, is the 2006 McKnight Distinguished Artist; Gordon Legge, psychology, received an honorary doctorate at the U of Montreal; Eric Johnston-Ortiz is UMC's new vice chancellor for finance; UMTC student Alex Kossett, mechanical engineering, has won the Mercury 7 Astronaut Scholarship. Read these news items and more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

RECENT FEATURES ON THE U OF M HOME PAGE:

"Biology freshmen dive into college life at Lake Itasca": http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Biology_freshmen_dive_into_college_life_at_Lake_Itasca.html "Summer language camp makes speech therapy fun": http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Summer_language_camp_makes_speech_therapy_fun.html

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS: DIRECTOR, CONSORTIUM FOR METROPOLITAN STUDIES: This initiative to develop a University urban agenda, part of the strategic positioning process, seeks a half-time faculty director. The consortium will link and improve alignment of U expertise and resources related to urban, suburban, and metropolitan change and development and will strengthen capacity to engage with external sectors. The U community is invited to nominate faculty members to provide the required leadership. Nominations will be reviewed beginning Aug. 15 and accepted until the position is filled. Send the nominee's name and a brief statement about qualifications to Robert Jones, Senior VP for System Academic Administration, c/o Julie Sweitzer, [email protected]; or fax to 612-626-8388; or mail to 110 Morrill Hall, UMTC. For more information, see http://www.academic.umn.edu/system/projects/cms.html .

CALL FOR PROPOSALS ON OBESITY RESEARCH: The Obesity Consortium of Minnesota offers (1) one-year grants of $10,000 and (2) grants of $20,000-$50,000 per year for up to two years. Applicants must be junior investigators interested in obesity research or be senior researchers changing direction to obesity research. Deadline: Aug. 31. Funding date: Oct. 1. For more information, contact [email protected] or 612-625-6200 or see http://www.obesity.umn.edu/pilot.htm .

STATE FAIR VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, AUG. 24-SEPT. 4. Greet visitors and distribute maroon-and-gold backpacks at the U of M building on Dan Patch Avenue and Underwood Street. Shifts available 9:30- 11:30 a.m. and 2:30-4:30 p.m. All campuses and more than 30 U colleges and offices are participating with exhibits and presentations throughout the fairgrounds; a complete list of all U locations at the fair will be posted online in August. Discount tickets available at U Bookstore, UMC and UMTC, $7. To volunteer, contact Laura Johnson at [email protected] .

TAKE TIME THIS SUMMER: NOMINATE AN ADVISER FOR THE TATE AWARD. Do you know an outstanding adviser who has made a difference in students' lives? Consider nominating him or her for the John Tate Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Advising. Exceptional faculty members, academic advisers, and career advisers in all U units are eligible. Nominations may be made by students, administrators, or faculty members in coordination with collegiate deans' offices or, at UMC and UMM, the vice chancellors' offices. Guidelines for 2006-07 will be available in September; for now, see the 2005-06 guidelines at http://www.academic.umn.edu/provost/tate/forms.html . For more information, contact Robin Matross Helms at [email protected] or 612-626-5598.

WALK ON WEDNESDAY, AUG. 2: Wellness walks at 1 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month continue through September. U employees are invited to walk for 20 minutes on work time; those who can't walk at 1 p.m. may arrange with their supervisor to walk at another time. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/wellness .

"LOAD THE BUS FOR LEARNING" will collect school supplies at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum for kids and teachers who otherwise could not afford them. Aug. 3, 4-6 p.m. Free general admission beginning at 4:30 p.m. (102.9 Lite FM radio listeners who bring a donation may enter free at 4 p.m.). See the Secret Gardens exhibition and stay for "A Midsummer Night's Tale," 6:30-7:30 p.m., with storytellers. For more information, see http://www.arboretum.umn.edu .

U ASTRONOMERS ARE AT STATE PARKS AND NATURE CENTERS: Universe in the Park brings telescopes, U experts, and help seeing the night sky to 12 state parks and nature centers, from Lake Shetek to Marine-on-St. Croix, through Sept. 9. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3126&from=umnnews or http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/A_universe_in_the_park.html .

EXTENSION SERVICE WILL RECOGNIZE 59 MINNESOTA "FARM FAMILIES OF THE YEAR" at the 25th annual Farmfest, Aug. 3, Gilfillan Estate, Redwood County. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3141&from=umnnews .

Crookston:

UMC WILL ROLL OUT THE CUSTOM-BUILT THINKPAD (R-60) LAPTOP this fall as part of a two-year agreement with IBM/Lenovo. The ThinkPads are designed and engineered to meet the demands of a university environment. UMC has provided full-time students and faculty members with laptop computers since 1993. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews .

NORTHWEST WIND ENERGY DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP will provide wind-farm development basics, wind resource analysis, and information about working with local utilities, turbine site location and zoning considerations, and how wind projects impact community economics. Aug. 3, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., UMC. Hosted by Northwest Clean Energy Resource Team, a project of the U of M Northwest Regional Sustainable Development Partnership. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story317.html .

Duluth:

GROUNDBREAKING FOR THE NEW LABOVITZ SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS building is today. Gov. Pawlenty, members of the Labovitz family, and Chancellor Martin will be among those attending. The building, scheduled to open in fall 2008, is funded in part with a gift from the Labovitz family and in part with capital bonding. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/UMD_breaks_ground_for_new_business_school.html .

Morris:

BIOENERGY SPOTLIGHT SHINES ON UMM: The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education is featuring UMM on its Web site this week for the 1.65 MW wind turbine at Morris, which produces more than 60 percent of the campus's power, and a biomass gasification facility, now under construction, that will provide 80 percent of UMM's heating and cooling needs. UMM will also be showcased at the West Ottertail, Douglas, and Stevens County fairs. For more information, see http://www.aashe.org and http://www.morris.umn.edu/webbin/ummnews/view.php? newsID=406 .

Rochester:

NEW MASTER OF HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION, offered at UMR by the School of Public Health, was approved by the Board of Regents July 12. The program will serve professionals in the Rochester region who want to advance careers in health care management and health services delivery. For more information, see http://www.ahc.umn.edu/news/releases/degreeprogram072006/home.html .

Twin Cities:

NEW CONSORTIUM FOR THE STUDY OF THE ASIAS will be established at UMTC this fall as one of three such national resource centers (NRCs) dedicated to pan-Asian studies with Title VI funding from the U.S. Department of Education. Title VI funding for the U's two existing NRCs, in Western European and international studies, was renewed. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3139&from=umnnews .

TUITION AND FEES FOR 2006-07 are now posted. See http://onestop.umn.edu/onestop/Tuition_Billing/Tuition_Rates.html .

COPYRIGHT PERMISSION REQUESTS FOR FALL SEMESTER 2006 course materials should be submitted to the Copyright Permissions Center as soon as possible. Full citations may be dropped off at any Printing Services location, faxed to 612-626-9810, mailed to 102 Printing Services Building, or submitted online at http://www.copyright.umn.edu . For more information, contact Dale Mossestad at [email protected] or 612-626-9416.

VOLUNTEER NOW TO HELP WITH CONVOCATION FOR THE CLASS OF 2010, on the first day of classes, Sept. 5. More than 140 faculty and staff volunteers are needed for the Pride & Spirit portion of the day, Coffman Union; check in 4:45-5:15 p.m., duties end by 7:30 p.m. To volunteer, register by Aug. 11 at http://www.irr.umn.edu/ofyp/convocation06 .

FARMERS MARKET CONTINUES TODAY and Wednesdays through Aug. 30, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Church Street mall, East Bank. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/wellness/market .

DISCOUNT IMAX THEATER TICKETS are now available at the Coffman Union information desk. Save up to $2 on tickets to the IMAX Theater at the Minnesota Zoo, now featuring Superman Returns and Deep Sea, both in 3D. For more information, see http://www.coffman.umn.edu/info .

UMTC HOSTS THE BIENNIAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AGGRESSION this week, presenting research from many disciplines on topics from tantrums and videogame violence to neurology and war. July 26-29, Coffman Union; on-site registration is available. A free public lecture on violence, brain mechanisms, and moral responsibility will be delivered July 27, 7:30 p.m., Coffman Union Theater. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Taking_aim_at_aggression.html .

21 McNAIR SCHOLARS will take part in the 14th annual poster presentation, followed by a reception for student participants and their mentors. McNair Scholars are part of the U.S. Department of Education's TRIO equal opportunity program and are from UMTC and other area colleges and universities. Aug. 1, 2-4 p.m., Mississippi Room, Coffman Union. For more information, see http://www.gen.umn.edu/programs/trio/mcnair/ .

INITIATIVE FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT (IREE) upcoming events include a Minnesota biofuels exhibit at the state fair (Aug. 24-Sept. 4), International Symposium on Biological Polyesters (Aug. 27-31), and a free public conference, "Moving Toward Sustainable Energy Systems: Exploring Global Pathways to a Common Destination" (Oct. 24-25). For more information, see http://www.iree.umn.edu .

MORE EVENTS include Ashes of Time, from China, and The Black Hair, from Japan, in the Asian Film Series (July 27); artist Vera Wong making paper sculpture at the Bell Museum (July 30 and Aug. 6); "Blazing the Trail Less Traveled: A Fortunate Exit From a Fortune 500," by LFE Capital CEO Leslie Frecon (Aug. 1); Science on the Screen: Attack of the Killer Tomatoes (Aug. 2); JSA/Joint Security Area, from Korea, in the Asian Film Series (Aug. 3); otolaryngology experts at the First Annual George L. Adams, M.D., Lectureship and Memorial Golf Tournament (Aug. 7-8); Cafe Scientifique: "Geology and the Fate of New Orleans" (Aug. 8). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (8-09-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_8092006.html. Vol. XXXVI No. 26; Aug. 9, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

Notice: Brief takes a summer break now and resumes weekly publication Aug. 30. The deadline for submissions is the Friday before publication.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Office of the Vice President and Vice Provost for Equity and Diversity: Q&A with VP Nancy "Rusty" BarcelÓ. --Flexible work arrangements: a guide to five types and how to use them. --Civil Service Committee annual review and preview. --People: James and Schuler win Presidential Early Career Awards, and more.

Transforming the U --Minnesota Environmental Initiative will host event on U strategic positioning Aug. 16. --Institute on the Environment: Provost's advisory group invites comments; forums will be held Sept. 6-8. --International programs interim structure: Perry and Isaacman appointed. --Final recommendations: Administrative Service and Productivity task forces and steering committee. --Service and Process Improvement Fund (SPIF) awards announced for fiscal year 2007.

THE U'S NEW OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT AND VICE PROVOST FOR EQUITY AND DIVERSITY is headed by Nancy "Rusty" BarcelÓ, who returned to the U this summer after five years at the University of Washington. BarcelÓ talked recently about what brought her back to Minnesota and her vision for making the U a national model for diversity in higher education. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/A_community_builder_for_diversity.html .

FLEXIBLE WORK ARRANGEMENTS can increase job satisfaction and improve work-life balance. The five most common types at the U are flextime, compressed work week, job sharing, telecommuting, and reduced-time/part-time. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Flex_your_time.html .

CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE ANNUAL REVIEW AND PREVIEW: 2006-07 chair Margaret "Peg" Wolff reports on the CSC retreat, the civil service staff's first year in the U Senate, and priorities for the coming year. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Civil_Service_Committee/2006_retreat_review.html .

PEOPLE: IT assistant professors Ashley James and William Schuler each have won the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers; UMD's Aydin Durgunoglu is part of an international team that won a UNESCO literacy prize for the Mother Child Education Foundation in Turkey; Disability Services director Bobbi Cordano will become assistant dean in the Humphrey Institute for Public Affairs; Gary Davis, UMD Center for Rural Mental Health Studies, is the 2006 Minnesota Rural Health Hero. Read these news items and more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

"TRANSFORMING THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA: What Does It Mean for Minnesota's Environment?" will be sponsored by the Minnesota Environmental Initiative. President Bruininks, Provost Sullivan, and other U representatives will speak on strategic positioning efforts with a focus on two topics: the launch of the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, and the new Institute on the Environment. Aug. 16, 8:30 a.m.-noon, Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul. For more information, see http://www.mn-ei.org/policy/events.html .

PROVOST'S ADVISORY GROUP ON THE CREATION OF THE NEW INSTITUTE ON THE ENVIRONMENT will hold open forums for the University community to comment on proposed recommendations. Sept. 6, 7, and 8; details to follow. Feedback to the advisory group also may be made on the Web at https://www.myu.umn.edu/metadot/index.pl?iid=644332&isa=Category .

INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS APPOINTMENTS AND INTERIM STRUCTURE: James Perry, Morse Distinguished University Professor and head of the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, has been named interim associate VP and dean for international programs. He will provide systemwide oversight for the Office of International Programs, which includes International Student and Scholar Services, Learning Abroad Center, China Center, and Center for Advanced Research on Language Acquisition. Regents Professor Allen Isaacman has been named to a new part-time position as assistant VP for international scholarship; he will also continue as director of the Interdisciplinary Center for the Study of Global Change. For more information, see http://www.academic.umn.edu/system .

FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE AND PRODUCTIVITY TASK FORCES AND STEERING COMMITTEE were published Aug. 7 on how to transform the U's service and administrative functions. The final document includes reports from the steering committee and task forces on (1) single enterprise, (2) culture, (3) administrative structure, (4) best practice management tools, (5) services, (6) people, and (7) optimize resources. To read the report, see http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning/admin_steering_team.html .

FISCAL YEAR 2007 SERVICE AND PROCESS IMPROVEMENT FUND (SPIF) AWARDS will fund four UMTC projects: development of assets to drive informed decision making (College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, College of Liberal Arts, College of Pharmacy, Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs, Space Management, Enterprise Financial System project, and Office of Budget and Finance); learning management system (Carlson School of Management); best-practice succession planning (Academic Support Resources, formerly Office of Enrolled Student Services); and e-scholarship as an engine for change and innovation (College of Design). SPIF was created by President Bruininks to support initiatives that have a positive impact on critical U service levels, productivity, and cost-revenue streams. The application process for fiscal year 2008 will open early in 2007. The Office of Service and Continuous Improvement administers the fund and can help units, colleges, and campuses develop ideas into viable opportunities. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/osci/spif.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

THE MINNESOTA STATE FAIR WILL FEATURE THE WHOLE U AUG. 24-SEPT. 4. More than 40 U campuses, colleges, and offices will participate at locations across the fairgrounds. Exhibits in the U building and the stage outside will showcase a wide range of experts. Campus days will be Aug. 24 and Sept. 1, UMR; Aug. 27, UMTC (Maroon and Gold Day); Aug. 25-27, UMC; Aug. 28-31, UMD; and Sept. 2-4, UMM. At UMC and UMTC, discount fair tickets are available from U Bookstores, $7. The U building is located at Dan Patch and Underwood Streets; the fair runs 9 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/statefair/index.php .

THE U WON A 2006 CASE-WealthEngine Award for Educational Fund Raising, one of 10 institutions honored for continuously high fund-raising performance by the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education. The award covered the period 2000-05, which included the last four years of the seven-year, U-wide Campaign Minnesota. Voluntary support grew from $194 million in fiscal year 2000 to $265 million in fiscal year 2005. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3154&from=umnnews .

TWO U CAMPUSES--UMD and UMTC--are among the best colleges and universities in the nation for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students, according to the College Guide for LGBT Students released this month. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3159&from=umnnews and http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/August/01-A.html or http://www.d.umn.edu/unirel/homepage/06/glbt-top100.html .

"TRAVELING ON UNIVERSITY BUSINESS," Financial Policy 3.8.3, includes a guideline for the amount of the nightly domestic lodging rate that may be reimbursed to U business travelers. This does not apply to conference travel with a prenegotiated lodging rate. The change was effective in July. For more information, see http://process.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/policy/Travel.cfm .

CONFERENCE AND VISITING-CHILD CARE: Is your professional or disciplinary association planning a conference or meeting in the Twin Cities? Is a top job candidate visiting with his or her family? Are you attending a conference in another state? Information on visiting-child care is available at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/worklife/childcare/#visiting . To follow up with more questions, contact the WorkLife Effectiveness Program, work/[email protected] or 612-625-3531, or the Relocation Assistance Program, [email protected] or 612-626-0775.

SAVE THE DATE: THE U SCHOLARS WALK AND WALL OF DISCOVERY will be dedicated in a ceremony Sept. 29, UMTC.

Crookston:

CHINA PARTNERSHIP UPDATE: Four faculty and staff members are in Hangzhou, China, through Aug. 18 to support course development for programs in agriculture business management and computer software engineering and information technology management at Zhejiang Economic and Trade Polytechnic (ZETP). Through the UMC-ZETP partnership, Chinese students will be able to complete associate degrees in China and bachelor's degrees at UMC. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story327.html .

Duluth:

UMD'S ATHLETIC TRAINING EDUCATION PROGRAM has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. It is one of seven athletic training education programs in Minnesota and the only one in the northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin region. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/August/02.html .

SIEUR DU LUTH SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL events include Verdi's Rigoletto (Aug. 10-13), Mozart's Cosi fan tutte (Aug. 16-19), and arias and ensemble scenes from Italian and German operas by the UMD Opera Performance Program (Aug. 20). For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/sfa/sumarts .

Morris:

CHANCELLOR JACQUELINE JOHNSON was welcomed by UMM and the community last week as she assumed leadership of the campus. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=736 .

Rochester:

NEXT STEPS IN EXPANDING THE U'S ROLE IN SOUTHEASTERN MINNESOTA were outlined by Regent Simmons, Senior VP Jones, and UMR Provost Carl, speaking to the Rochester Higher Education Development Committee in Rochester Aug. 4. UMR will create a "destination campus" with focused academic programs and planning in the area of health sciences, biotechnology, and technology. Five new programs are available at UMR this fall, and five more are planned for fall 2007. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3168&from=umnnews .

Twin Cities:

A NEW THREE-DAY ORIENTATION PROGRAM FOR FACULTY MEMBERS NEW TO THE U will include opportunities to meet and hear from campus leaders, information fairs, hands-on introductions to resources for teaching and research, and much more. Each day will be held on a different part of a campus, including St. Paul and the east and west banks in Minneapolis, and will conclude with a reception. Invitations were sent to 150 new faculty members. Aug. 22-24. For more information, see http://academic.umn.edu/provost/faculty/development.html .

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR DIRECTORY COVER PHOTO! The U needs 75-100 students, faculty, and staff to be in the cover photo for the 2006-07 Student-Staff Directory. The photo shoot will be Tuesday, Aug. 15, 3 p.m., in the atrium of Hasselmo Hall (just east of Coffman, http://onestop.umn.edu/Maps/NHH/index.html ). Time commitment is about one hour. Participants should wear normal work or school day clothes for the first photo and, if available, bring a maroon or gold top to change into for a second photo. (Note: photos will be shot from above, so no revealing necklines, please.) If interested, e-mail [email protected] and indicate whether you are a student or a faculty or staff member.

STATE FAIR FOOD AND DISCOUNT TICKETS AT COFFMAN UNION: Stop by the Minnesota Markplace to see a sculpted butter head of Goldy Gopher and sample the special University Dining Services state fair food, Aug. 16, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., ground floor. State fair admission tickets for $7 (regular $9) and special edition T-shirts are on sale at the University Bookstore. For more information, see http://www.bookstore.umn.edu/viewCategory.cgi?categoryID=490 .

FARMERS MARKET CONTINUES TODAY and Wednesdays through Aug. 30, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Church Street mall, East Bank. Watch for updates at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/wellness/market .

THE ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE PROGRAM, including the ESL course designator, was transferred from the College of Liberal Arts to the College of Continuing Education effective July 1. The program serves students across the colleges. For more information, see http://www.cce.umn.edu/esl .

SAVE THE DATE: ALUMNI VOLUNTEER AWARDS. Faculty and staff are invited to a reception to recognize and thank the outstanding volunteers who make U of M Alumni Association programs possible. Volunteer award winners are now posted on the Web. Sept. 15, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Great Hall, Coffman Union. To register or get more information, see http://www.alumni.umn.edu/volunteerawards or 612-625-9174.

MORE EVENTS include "Our Cities' Children," a panel discussion (Aug. 9); Cornercopia student organic farm field day and tours (Aug. 10); "A House for Mississippi" benefit auction (Aug. 10); Bike-in at the Bell Museum (Aug. 12); "Cuba After Castro," a roundtable discussion (Aug. 14); Asian Film Collaborative features, Chunhyang and The Snow Maiden (Aug. 17); steak and lobster dinner on the Campus Club terrace (Aug. 18); Bohemian Flats Day, West Bank (Aug. 19); Temple Grandin at a benefit for the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (Aug. 24); and candidates for governor and other seats at the Humphrey Institute Candidate Forum series (Aug. 9, 10, 17, 22, 23). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (8-30-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_8302006.html. Vol. XXXVI No. 27; Aug. 30, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Three-day orientation for faculty new to the U debuted Aug. 22-24. --At ground breaking for new Hormel Institute, executive director Zigang Dong was named McKnight Presidential Professor for Cancer Prevention. --Equine center ground breaking Aug. 15 featured Percheron draft team. --People: UMAA volunteer awards; AHC academy inducts four faculty members; Cicchetti receives APA lifetime achievement award.

Transforming the U --Institute on the Environment: public forums at UMTC and UMD Sept. 6-8. --Service and Process Improvement Fund 2007 award descriptions are now online.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

THREE-DAY ORIENTATION FOR FACULTY NEW TO THE U DEBUTED AT UMTC AUG. 22-24. This year for the first time, campus leaders spent three days rolling out the welcome mat for more than 90 new faculty members who will play a key role in meeting the U's ambitious goals. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_expands_orientation_for_new_faculty.html .

AT GROUND BREAKING CEREMONIES FOR THE NEW HORMEL INSTITUTE in Austin last week, researcher Zigang Dong was named a McKnight Presidential Professor in Cancer Prevention. Dong has served as executive director of the institute and chief of its cellular and molecular biology research section. In the next year, he will oversee a $20 million renovation and construction project that will triple the institute's capacity. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Dong_named_McKnight_professor.html .

A TEAM OF PERCHERON DRAFT HORSES broke ground for the U's new equine center at the northeast corner of the Twin Cities campus in St. Paul Aug. 15. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Triumph_of_the_neighsayers.html .

PEOPLE: UMAA 2006 volunteer awards, to be made Sept. 15, will include a Faculty/Staff of the Year award to Debra Skaar, College of Pharmacy; the Academic Health Center has named faculty members Aaron Folsom, Stephen Hecht, Harry Orr, and James White to its Academy for Excellence in Health Research; the Institute of Child Development's Dante Cicchetti received the lifetime achievement award of the American Psychological Association this month in New Orleans. Read these news items and more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

PROVOST'S ADVISORY GROUP ON THE NEW INSTITUTE ON THE ENVIRONMENT will hold open forums at UMTC and UMD for the University community to comment on recommendations. All are welcome. Sept. 6, 1-2:30 p.m., 105 Cargill Building, UMTC; Sept. 7, 10-11:30 a.m., 402 Walter Library, UMTC; and Sept. 8, 1-2:30 p.m., 130 School of Medicine, UMD. Feedback to the advisory group also may be made at https://www.myu.umn.edu/metadot/index.pl?iid=644332&isa=Category . A final report will be made to the provost Sept. 14. To read more about the institute, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/New_college_and_environmental_institute_gear_up_to_propel_U_to_the_top.html .

DESCRIPTIONS OF THE FOUR 2007 SERVICE AND PROCESS IMPROVEMENT FUND (SPIF) AWARDS are now on the Web: development of assets to drive informed decision making, learning management system, best-practice succession planning, and e-scholarship as an engine for change and innovation. SPIF supports initiatives that have a positive impact on critical U service levels, productivity, and cost-revenue streams. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/osci/spif.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

APPLICATIONS SOUGHT FOR U BOARD OF REGENTS: The Regent Candidate Advisory Council is accepting applications for four positions on the board. Regents are selected by the council and governor, approved by the legislature, and serve six-year unpaid terms. Four of the twelve seats are open every two years; those open in 2007 include one for Minnesota's fifth congressional district, two at-large, and one student at-large. For more information, see http://www.rcac.leg.mn .

UPDATE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION for the 2006-07 Student-Staff Directory by Sept. 20. Go to http://hrss.umn.edu and click on "Update Personal Information." Then use the menu bar at the top of the page. You have the option to publish or suppress your phone number or address or both.

NEW U POLICIES now posted include "Institutional Conflict of Interest," "Outside Consulting," and "Security Breaches." Lodging rate guidelines have been added to the travel policy. For more information, see http://www.fpd.finop.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/main/new.cfm .

INFORMATION SESSIONS ON NOMINATIONS FOR TEACHING AND ADVISING AWARDS: The Office of the Provost will host sessions for those involved in compiling nomination dossiers for the Morse- Alumni, graduate/professional, and Tate advising awards. Topics include dossier format, use of new templates, tips for making a strong dossier, and more. Staff will be available to answer questions. At UMC, UMD, and UMM, two information sessions will be held via interactive television: Sept. 13, 2-3 p.m., 100 Dowell at UMC, 410 Library at UMD, and 37 HFA at UMM; Dec 7, 10-11 a.m., 106 SCC at UMC, 173 Kirby at UMD, and 7 HFA at UMM. At UMTC: Sept. 11, 2-3 p.m., 324 Coffman Union; Dec. 5, 10-11 a.m., 101 Walter Library. Register by Sept. 6 for the September sessions and by Nov. 29 for the December sessions: contact Robin Matross Helms at [email protected] or 612-626- 5598.

GRANT-IN-AID OF RESEARCH, ARTISTRY, AND SCHOLARSHIP competition, sponsored by the Graduate School, is open to faculty and staff. Deadline: Sept. 18. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/faculty-staff/funding/dean/gia .

TWO BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS DEGREES will be offered at UMR by the UMD School of Fine Arts this year after a successful pilot last year: one in graphic design and another in arts and technology. A master of business administration in Rochester, offered by UMD's Labovitz School of Business and Economics, starts its fifth year. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/August/08-B.html (BFA), http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/August/08-A.html (MBA), and http://www.r.umn.edu (Rochester).

GRANT WRITER POSITION for the Office of the Senior Vice President for System Academic Administration is now open. Application review will begin Sept. 22. For more information, see requisition #141946 at http://www.umn.edu/ohr .

MINNESOTA STATE FAIR: Campus days at the fair focus on UMD, Aug. 28-31; UMR, Sept. 1; and UMM, Sept. 2-4. More than 40 U campuses, colleges, and offices are at locations across the fairgrounds. Exhibits in the U building and the stage outside (at Dan Patch and Underwood Streets) showcase a wide range of experts. Discount fair tickets are available for $7 from U Bookstores at UMC and UMTC and at the UMTC student union information desks. Through Sept. 4, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/statefair .

Crookston:

CLASSES STARTED YESTERDAY after a week of faculty and staff meetings Aug. 21-25 and a weekend of student orientation. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story335.html .

PSYCHOLOGY IS A NEW MAJOR this fall through collaboration with UMD. UMC students can earn a bachelor of applied science by taking general education and beginning psychology courses on campus and advanced courses from UMD online. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story320.html .

UMC ADVANCED TO SECOND in the category "Top Public Midwest Comprehensive Colleges, Bachelor's" in the 2007 ranking by U.S. News & World Report. It is the ninth consecutive year UMC has appeared in the rankings. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story334.html .

Duluth:

CHANCELLOR'S CONVOCATION for freshmen and parents will be Sept. 2, 4 p.m., Kirby Ballroom. Bulldog Bash days for all incoming and continuing students run Friday through Monday, Sept. 1-4, and include games, food, and special events. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/fye/freshmen/bash .

Morris:

LOUISIANA GOVERNOR Kathleen Blanco will give UMM's opening convocation for students in the 2006 First-Year Seminar. Her visit was rescheduled from 2005, when Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast. Sept. 5, 7 p.m., Edson Auditorium. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=946 .

UMM AGAIN RANKED FOURTH in the category "Top Public Liberal Arts Colleges" in the 2007 ranking by U.S. News & World Report. It is the sixth consecutive year UMM has appeared in the top five, and it is the only college in the Midwest on the list. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1035 .

Twin Cities:

THE RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM will sponsor "Conducting a Job Search in the Twin Cities," with a focus on helping spouses and partners of recently relocated new UMTC employees learn how to identify potential places of employment, conduct informational interviews, make contacts through networking, and write effective resumes. Sept. 22, 9 a.m.-noon, 210 Donhowe. Register by Sept. 15 by contacting [email protected] or 612-626-0774.

DISCOUNT TICKETS TO THE STATE FAIR, Renaissance Festival, Minnesota Zoo and Imax Theatre, and Valleyfair are available at the student unions--the information desks in Coffman Union and the St. Paul Student Center and at Gopher Express West. For more information, see http://www.coffman.umn.edu or call 612-624-4636.

CAMPUS FARMERS MARKET CONCLUDES TODAY, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Church Street mall, East Bank. For more information, see at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/wellness/market .

NEVER BEEN A MEMBER OF THE CAMPUS CLUB? Now is a good time to join. A special membership category for U faculty and staff who have never been members provides half-price dues for the first year: after six free months, dues are deducted from payroll at $7.27 per pay period, a total of $94.50. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/cclub/newsneverbeen.htm .

THE WEDNESDAY NIGHT U STAFF BOWLING LEAGUE needs one or more teams as well as individual bowlers to join existing teams. Current and retired staff are welcome. Play begins Sept. 6 and runs through mid-April at Midway Pro Bowl, Snelling and University Avenues, St. Paul. For more information, see http://www.wnustaff.umn.edu or contact Carrie Meyer, [email protected] or 612- 624-8301.

THIRD ANNUAL WOMEN'S HEALTH RESEARCH CONFERENCE will feature six sessions and a keynote address by Susan Wood, who stepped down as director of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Office of Women's Health in 2005 because of the FDA's refusal to approve emergency contraception known as Plan B as an over-the-counter product. Sponsored by the Deborah E. Powell Center for Women's Health. Free and open to the public. Sept. 11, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center. For more information, see http://www.womenshealth.umn.edu/wmhlth/profed/upcoming2/2006research.html .

CAMPUS PARKING TIPS DURING THE STATE FAIR are available from Parking and Transportation Services. If you need to drive to campus, be sure to carry your U Card because you may need it to enter public parking facilities and gated areas near the campus in St. Paul. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/pts/hottopics.htm .

MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION, a program offered through the Center for Spirituality and Healing, will be demonstrated in free sessions Sept. 12, 6 p.m., and Sept. 13, noon. Weekly day and evening sessions begin the last week of September. For more information, see http://www.csh.umn.edu .

GOPHER SPOT REOPENING CELEBRATION in the St. Paul Student Center will be Sept. 5-9. During the staff/faculty (including grad students) league recruitment party, visit the newly renovated game room and convenience store and get free bowling, pizza, and soda Sept. 6, 5-8 p.m. Other activities include a ribbon cutting ceremony with free bowling, donuts, coffee, and lots of free food samples all week. For the full schedule, see http://www.spsc.umn.edu/gopherspot .

THE GOPHER FOOTBALL TEAM opens its nonconference season Aug. 31. Coach Glen Mason talked recently about his success in putting a "credible product" on the field each year and the challenges of gaining ground in a highly competitive conference. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/The_coach27s_perspective.html .

MORE EVENTS include Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India, presented by the Asian Film Collaborative (Aug. 31); the authors of The College to Career Road Map (Sept. 2); convocation for new students (Sept. 5); Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota chief operating officer Colleen Reitan in the Carlson School's First Tuesday luncheon (Sept. 5); Creating the First Global Empire: Portuguese Exploration and Expansion, an exhibit at the James Ford Bell Library (opens Sept. 5); Transportation Fair (Sept. 5 at Coffman Union, Sept. 6 at the St. Paul Student Center); and Artful Lives, an exhibit of art by individuals with developmental disabilities, at the Humphrey Forum (reception Sept. 7). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (9-06-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_9062006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 28; Sept. 6, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--New Regents Professors Gunnar, Sikkink, and Truhlar will be honored by Board of Regents Sept. 8. --Regents Sept. 7-8 meeting preview. --Back to campus: more first-year students choose on-campus housing.

Transforming the U --Institute on the Environment: public comment invited; UMTC and UMD forums Sept. 6-8.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

THREE NEW REGENTS PROFESSORS--Megan Gunnar, child development; Kathryn Sikkink, political science; and Donald Truhlar, chemistry--will be honored by the Board of Regents Sept. 8. The appointments are the highest faculty honor conferred by the University. In the second of three profiles, read about Sikkink, a renowned scholar for her approach to studying human rights, at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Tracking_the_human_rights_trail.html .

BOARD OF REGENTS SEPT. 7-8 MEETING PREVIEW: Meeting of the full board Sept. 8 will be the first time proceedings are webcast. Topics on the agenda include a resolution related to elimination of the waiting period for enrollment in the faculty retirement program, policy on staff appearances before the legislature, and the conceptual framework for the state budget request. VP BarcelÓ, UMM Chancellor Johnson, and the Carlson School's Dean Davis-Blake will be introduced. Read more at http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3242&from=umnnews .

BACK TO CAMPUS: More and more first-year students are living on campus--more than 80 percent at UMTC this year compared to 59 percent in 1992. UMC's Centennial Hall is the latest addition to the U's selection of student housing across the state. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/It27s_back_to_the_books.html .

Transforming the U:

PROVOST'S ADVISORY GROUP ON THE NEW INSTITUTE ON THE ENVIRONMENT invites the statewide University community to comment on recommendations. A final report will be made to the provost Sept. 14. Open forums at UMTC and UMD may be attended in person or via Breeze interactive broadcast on the Web. All are welcome. Today, 1-2:30 p.m., 105 Cargill Building, UMTC; Sept. 7, 10-11:30 a.m., 402 Walter Library, UMTC; and Sept. 8, 1-2:30 p.m., 130 School of Medicine, UMD. See http://www.academic.umn.edu/provost/interdisc/environment.html . Feedback to the advisory group also may be made at https://www.myu.umn.edu/metadot/index.pl?iid=644332&isa=Category .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

PEOPLE: Thomas Baldwin has been named UMC's senior vice chancellor for academic and student affairs; Denny Schulstad has been elected national volunteer president of the 57,000-member U of M Alumni Association; UMC sociology and criminal justice instructor and women's soccer coach Chris Przemieniecki was awarded for his research on gang behavior; and longtime Northrop concerts and lectures director Dale Schatzlein died unexpectedly while vacationing in Colorado. Read these news items and more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

NOMINATIONS FOR TEACHING AND ADVISING AWARDS: Deadline to register for September information sessions is today. The Office of the Provost is hosting sessions for those involved in compiling nomination dossiers for the Morse-Alumni, graduate/professional, and Tate advising awards. Topics include dossier format, use of new templates, tips for making a strong dossier, and more. Staff will be available to answer questions. At UMTC: Sept. 11, 2-3 p.m., 324 Coffman Union. At UMC, UMD, and UMM, sessions will be held via interactive television: Sept. 13, 2-3 p.m., 100 Dowell at UMC, 410 Library at UMD, and 37 HFA at UMM. Contact Robin Matross Helms at [email protected] or 612-626-5598.

LAST WALK ON WEDNESDAY FOR THE SEASON IS TODAY. Walk for 20 minutes on work time as part of UPlan Wellness, at 1 p.m. or an alternative time arranged with your supervisor. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/wellness .

ON-CAMPUS WALK-IN CLINICS: QuickCare Clinic for UMD employees and their dependents reopened for the season Sept. 5. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/umdhr/quickcare . MinuteClinic at UMTC is scheduled to reopen Oct. 2; see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits/medical/minuteclinic .

FIFTH ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE AT THE U'S SOUTHERN RESEARCH AND OUTREACH CENTER in Waseca will be Sept. 14. The theme is "Agriculture for the 21st Century." Activities will include displays and information on topics from renewable energy to rural family life, free water testing for nitrate, and a plant pest clinic. Family entertainment for all ages will include live farm animals, corn maze, wagon rides, and more. 4-8 p.m., evening meal served 4:30-7 p.m., Highway 14 West and County Road 57, Waseca. For more information, see http://sroc.coafes.umn.edu or call 507-837-5612 or 507- 536-6310.

U OF M MOMENT 90-second daily radio features with U experts this week include repairing damaged lawns, college life and homesickness, the U's new plant pathology research facility, Minnesota Cup Final, and apple season in Minnesota. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3237&from=umnnews . Archives available at http://blog.lib.umn.edu/urelate/radio .

Crookston:

"VANISHED: German-American Civilian Internment, 1941-48," a traveling exhibit about the internment of 15,000 civilians during World War II, will be on campus in the TRACES BUS-eum, a mobile museum. Today, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Student Center; facilitated community conversation at noon in the Prairie Room. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story342.html .

Duluth:

PROJECTED TOTAL CAMPUS ENROLLMENT for fall semester is 10,800, of whom 2,275 are freshmen. More than 3,000 students live on campus, including 87 percent of freshmen. More than 45 percent of UMD's entering freshmen this fall are from the seven-county metro area, and there are notable increases from several non-metro areas, according to Bruce Gildseth, vice chancellor for academic support and student life. UMD continues to draw 10 percent of new freshmen from Wisconsin, and numbers from other states are up.

THE MOST POPULAR MAJORS for 2005-06 were business, biology, psychology, elementary education, and criminology. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/September/01.html .

Morris:

BIG CAT STADIUM opened this weekend, with games by the Morris Area High School Tigers on Friday and UMM Cougars on Saturday. The field was a cooperative effort of the high school, UMM, the community, and the state legislature. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1036 .

UMM IS AMONG THE SCHOOLS named a Best Midwestern College by The Princeton Review in its 2007 Best 361 Colleges ranking. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1057 .

Twin Cities:

INSTITUTE FOR ADVANCED STUDY (IAS): CALL FOR NOMINATIONS AND APPLICATIONS for two programs in 2007-08. Faculty Fellows Program enables up to 20 scholars to spend a semester at IAS. Deadline is Oct. 13. Research/Creative Collaboratives support up to 12 small teams of faculty engaged in collaborative research projects. Deadline is Jan. 19, 2007. For more information, see http://www.ias.umn.edu .

THE DEPARTMENT OF WOMEN'S STUDIES is now the Department of Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies. For more information, see http://gwss.umn.edu .

UNIVERSITY STORES' 20TH ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE will be Sept. 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Radisson Hotel Metrodome. Lunch will be served 11 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information, see http://www.ustores.umn.edu .

THE RAPTOR CENTER SEEKS education volunteers for interpretive tours and assistance with general care of the education raptors. Interviews will be Sept. 14, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Also needed are lobby assistants to greet visitors, provide information about the center, and help in the gift shop. Interviews will be by appointment. Training for both positions is scheduled on four Wednesdays, Sept. 20-Oct. 11, 6-9 p.m. For more information, contact the volunteer manager at [email protected] or 612-624-3928. See also http://www.raptor.cvm.umn.edu .

TEACH WITH WRITING: WRITING ACROSS THE CURRICULUM workshops and panel discussions for fall semester will be "Teaching With Writing Online" (Sept. 15), "Devising Effective Writing Assignments" (Sept. 19), "Teaching With Writing Inclusively" (Sept. 28), "Commenting on Student Writing" (Oct. 3), "Grammar Matters: Teaching Style, Usage, and the Ever-Popular 'Clarity'" (Oct. 12), and "Grading Student Writing" (Oct. 26). Times vary; Nicholson Hall and Walter Library locations. For noon sessions, free lunch for the first 30 to register. For more information, see http://writing.umn.edu/home/events.htm .

THE PRESIDENT'S CANCER PANEL MEETING, "Promoting Healthy Lifestyles to Reduce the Risk of Cancer," will be hosted by the Cancer Center and is open to the public. The all-day, fact-finding meeting will feature U and guest panelists. Sept. 11, 425 East River Road. For more information, see http://www.cancer.umn.edu/news/releases/2006/cancerpanel.html .

"HEADLINERS," a new monthly program, will connect faculty experts with adult learners to discuss timely topics, beginning this fall. Sponsored by the College of Continuing Education. Evenings, first Thursdays of the month--Oct. 5, Nov. 2, Dec. 7, Jan. 4, Feb. 1, Mar. 1, Apr. 5. For more information, see http://www.cce.umn.edu/enrichment/headliners .

THREE UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE HUMPHREY INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS require registration in advance: "The Broken Branch: A Look at the Contemporary Congress," with Norm Ornstein and Thomas Mann (Sept. 11, noon-1:30 p.m.); "In Their Own Words: Voices of Jihad," a discussion with David Aaron and Walter Mondale, moderated by Larry Jacobs (Sept. 12, noon-1:30 p.m., register by Sept. 8); and "Beyond the Nuclear Issue: Crisis on the Korean Peninsula," a panel discussion with Walter Mondale, Brian Atwood, Burton Levin, and Desaix Anderson (Sept. 15, 10 a.m-noon). All free and open to the public. To register for the Sept. 11 or 12 event, contact [email protected] or 612- 625-2530; for the Sept. 15 event, call 612-625-5309. For more information, see http://www.hhh.umn.edu/news/headlines/headlines2006/hhh_events.html .

TOUCH THE SKY: PRAIRIE PHOTOGRAPHS BY JIM BRANDENBURG will exhibit at the Bell Museum Oct. 1-Dec. 31. A preview for U faculty, staff, students, and parents will be held Sept. 29, 3-4:30 p.m., with free exhibit posters to the first 25 guests. Other events will include a dinner with Brandenburg at the Craftsman (Sept. 28) and opening reception (Sept. 30, 7 p.m., member preview with the photographer at 6 p.m.). For more information, see http://www.bellmuseum.org .

LAW SCHOOL LECTURES for 2006-07 will feature faculty members Richard Frase, Kevin Reitz, Michael Tonry, Michael Stokes Paulsen, and Judith Younger, and guests Jack Balkin (Yale), George Fletcher (Columbia), and Reed Hundt (McKinsey & Co., Washington, D.C.). Monthly on Tuesdays. The series begins with "Sentencing Guidelines in Minnesota: Past, Present, and Future," by Frase, Sept. 12, 3:30 p.m., Lockhart Hall, 25 Mondale Hall. For more information, contact [email protected] or 612-624-1885. See also http://www.law.umn.edu .

NORTHROP DANCE AND JAZZ SERIES tickets for the 2006-07 season are now on sale. Jazz series begins with Sonny Rollins (Sept. 17); dance series begins with Martha Graham Dance Company (Oct. 20). For more information, see http://www.northrop.umn.edu .

MORE EVENTS include the ground breaking of the new plant pathology research facility (Sept. 6); The Great Warming in the Science on the Screen series (Sept. 7); Artful Lives, an exhibit of art by individuals with developmental disabilities, at the Humphrey Forum (reception Sept. 7, continues through Nov. 24); New Photography: McKnight Fellows 2005-06 and The Sur-Rational Paintings by Fritz Hirschberger at the Nash Gallery (opening receptions Sept. 8); Narrative Beyond Words, an exhibit of M.F.A. student work in Wilson Library (opening reception Sept. 8); Funk at the Fred (Sept. 8); Celebration of Minnesota Children's Authors and Illustrators (Sept. 9); St. Paul Chamber Orchestra at Ted Mann Concert Hall (Sept. 10); "Global Climate Change: It's Getting Hot in Here," in Cafe Scientifique (Sept. 11); "The Guthrie's Journey: How the Vision Became Reality," a public talk by artistic director Joe Dowling (Sept. 12); and a reading and discussion of The Translation of Dr. Apelles with author David Treuer (Sept. 13). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (9-13-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_9132006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 29; Sept. 13, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Profile: Donald Truhlar, chemistry, was one of three new Regents Professors honored Sept. 8. --Board of Regents review: College of Design presentation Sept. 7; meeting of the full board Sept. 8 is on the Web. --CAPA update.

Transforming the U --Finalists for CFANS dean announced; public forums will be Sept. 22, 26, and 29. --Baccalaureate Writing Initiative aims to make UMTC a national model.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

PROFILE: Donald Truhlar is indisputably among the world's best physical chemists, tackling problems from why enzymes in the human body don't obey the law of physics to predicting rates of chemical reactions. He is one of three new Regents Professors who were honored by the University regents Sept. 8. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/A_super_computing_chemist.html .

BOARD OF REGENTS REVIEW: College of Design dean Tom Fisher presented a broad vision of design and its implications to the Educational Planning and Policy Committee Sept. 7. The meeting of the full board was webcast for the first time Sept. 8 and an archive is available to view, including the president's presentation on the conceptual framework for the biennial budget as well as introductions to VP BarcelÓ, UMM Chancellor Johnson, and Carlson School Dean Davis-Blake. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Preparing_for_a_design_economy.html .

CAPA UPDATE: The Council of Academic Professionals and Administrators (CAPA) set its 2006-07 agenda at a retreat Aug. 23. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Council_of_Academic_Professionals_and_Administrators/CAPA_begins_200607.html .

Transforming the U:

FINALISTS FOR DEAN, COLLEGE OF FOOD, AGRICULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCE SCIENCES (CFANS), will be on campus this month. Each interview will culminate with a public forum at locations to be announced. Finalists and forum dates: Allen Levine, professor and head, Department of Food Science and Nutrition (Sept. 22, 10 a.m.-noon); Curtis Richardson, professor of resource ecology, Duke University (Sept. 26, 10 a.m.-noon); and Eric Triplett, professor and chair, Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, U of Florida-Gainesville (Sept. 29, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.). For more information, see http://www.cfans.umn.edu/deansearch .

THE BACCALAUREATE WRITING INITIATIVE AT UMTC aims to make writing an essential element of every undergraduate's education and turn the U into a national model for the study and practice of writing. Courses and scholars of writing from three colleges will be consolidated into one department in the College of Liberal Arts beginning in 2007-08, Faculty in all majors will help define the writing needs and requirements for their students. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/The_write_way_to_learn.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

U.S. CONSTITUTION DAY PROGRAM for the University system, featuring top legal scholars, will be presented by the Law School, Sept. 19, 12:15-2:15 p.m., Mondale Hall, UMTC. A webcast will connect all the campuses and the public. For more information, see http://www.law.umn.edu/constitutionallaw/conday2006agenda.html .

DEADLINE TO UPDATE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION for the 2006-07 Student-Staff Directory is Sept. 20. Go to http://hrss.umn.edu and click on "Update Personal Information." Then use the menu bar at the top of the page. You have the option to publish or suppress your home phone number or address or both.

P&A CLASSIFICATION STUDY IS UNDER WAY. Carol Carrier, VP for human resources, has convened a working group to study and address the strengths and limitations of the academic professional and administrative (P&A) classification and compensation system at the U. The group soon will begin inviting P&A employees to participate in discussion groups, a critical step in analyzing this classification and compensation system. For more information about the working group and its tasks, http://www.umn.edu/ohr/compensation/classification/panda .

NOMINATIONS FOR McKNIGHT LAND-GRANT PROFESSORSHIPS are invited by the Graduate School and the provost's office. The program provides two-year awards to junior faculty through an annual competition with the aim of strengthening the faculty for the future. Deadline: Sept. 29. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/faculty-staff/mcknight .

STAR PERFORMER AWARDS: CALL FOR NOMINATIONS. You can recognize the custodian, parking attendant, food service worker, police officer, or other University Services employee who provides excellent service. Complete a nomination form at http://www.uservices.umn.edu/starperformers.html . The form is simple, and the nominee will appreciate your time and thoughtfulness. Nominations are due by Sept. 22.

WORKLIFE CELEBRATION: The fall schedule of WorkLife workshops and seminars on topics including child care, elder care, home life, and life events is now posted. The program is a University-wide effort to support faculty and staff in managing their work, family, and personal responsibilities. Offered in collaboration with Employee Career Enrichment Program, U Relations, University Police, Relocation Assistance Program, Supervisory Training, and Dakota Area Resources & Transportation for Seniors (DARTS). For more information or to register, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/worklife or call 612-626-0774.

"AGRICULTURE FOR THE 21ST CENTURY" is the theme of the fifth annual open house at the Southern Research and Outreach Center. Sept. 14, 4-8 p.m., Waseca. For more information, see http://sroc.coafes.umn.edu .

BOOKS ARE NEEDED FOR THE ARBORETUM'S LIBRARY SALE. Donate gently used books to the Andersen Horticultural Library by Sept. 22. Sale will be Oct. 6-8. For more information, see http://www.arboretum.umn.edu or call 952-443-1405 or -1459.

"JESUS, MARY MAGDALENE, AND DA VINCI," presented by Elaine Pagels, Princeton U professor of religion, will be the Graduate School's annual Guy Stanton Ford Lecture. Oct. 6, 12:15 p.m., Ted Mann Concert Hall, UMTC. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/news/ford or contact [email protected] or 612-625-7579.

RECENT STORIES on the U of M home page: * "Minnesota Cup goes to recycled pavers"--plus awards for solutions to identity theft, affordable solar lanterns, and more-- http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Minnesota_Cup_goes_to_recycled_pavers.html * "U gives Class of 2010 a warm welcome," about UMTC convocation Sept. 5-- http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_gives_Class_of_2010_a_warm_welcome.html

Crookston:

A PARTNERSHIP BASED ON A SHARED VISION OF BETTER HEALTH for Minnesota residents has been established by UMC and the Minnesota Rural Health Association (MRHA). The MHRA, a nonprofit group established in 1994, will have an office at UMC. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story345.html .

UMC STUDENTS WERE INVITED TO A TRADITIONAL WILD RICE CAMP over Labor Day weekend at White Earth Reservation. Students heard traditional music around a fire, played games, and raced canoes. The UMC group included international students who wanted to learn more about Ojibwe culture. For more information and photos, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews .

Duluth:

UMD AND THE CITY OF DULUTH were cited in "Four Great American College Towns" in the New York Post online Sept. 5. The article noted the Tweed Museum of Art and glass sculpture by Dale Chihuly in the library lobby. For more information, see http://www.nypost.com/entertainment/travel/back_to_school_travel_chris_bunting.htm .

TWEED MUSEUM OF ART exhibits include "Eloquent Silences," fiber, wood, and mix-media sculpture by Korean-born Kyoung Ae Cho (artist's lecture and opening reception Sept. 19, 6-8 p.m.; exhibit through Nov. 12); and "Eastman Johnson: Paintings and Drawings of the Lake Superior Ojibwe," featuring the American painter's work during a visit to Lake Superior in 1856-57 (through Oct. 29). For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/tma or call 218-726-8222.

Morris:

"WHY THEY FOUGHT: IMMIGRANT COLONISTS AND MINNESOTA'S CIVIL WAR," presented by Kathleen Neils Conzen, professor of history at the U of Chicago and a leading historian of German immigration, will be the 22nd annual O. Truman Driggs Distinguished Lecture. Sept. 19, 7:30 p.m., HFA Recital Hall. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php? itemID=1143 .

COME BACK TO "THE GREAT OUTDOORS" during homecoming, Sept. 20-24. For a full list of activities, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/alumni/alumniRelations/ARHomecoming.html or call 320- 589-6066.

Twin Cities:

NOBEL LAUREATE and U alumnus Norman Borlaug will return to campus Sept. 18--Borlaug Day in Minnesota--to honor John Gibler, winner of the 2006 E. C. Stakman Award. Borlaug will also speak to students with his friend and colleague, Leon Hesser, author of a new biography of Borlaug, The Man Who Fed the World. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/No_slowing_down_for_Borlaug.html .

CORNERCOPIA FARMERS MARKET STAND: Cornercopia, the student organic farm, returns today with fresh fall produce. Wednesdays, Sept. 13-Oct. 11, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Church Street mall, East Bank. For more information, see http://sof.coafes.umn.edu . Faculty and staff in St. Paul can have produce delivered straight to their offices later in the week; contact [email protected] to get on the St. Paul delivery list.

A NEW BAKERY CAFE, Bleecker St., is now open at Carlson Dining in the Carlson School of Management. The menu includes artisan breads, pastries, made-to-order sandwiches and paninis, seasonal soups and salads, and juices. Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/dining .

THE ACADEMIC HEALTH CENTER WILL HOLD A BLOOD DRIVE Sept. 28, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center. Please schedule your appointment in advance at http://www.givelife.org with sponsor code uofmacademic. Donors must be at least 17, weigh at least 110 pounds, and present a photo ID at check-in. If you have traveled outside the United States in the past year or have other questions about eligibility to donate, call the American Red Cross nurse at 651-291-3885 before scheduling. For other information, call Jenny Meslow, [email protected] .

DUURBAAR: JOURNEYS INTO HORIZON, presented by associate professor of dance Ananya Chatterjea and the Ananya Dance Theatre, is inspired by the necessary but difficult journeys of women across the world. Sept. 14-16, 8 p.m.; Sept. 17, 7 p.m.; Southern Theater, 1420 Washington Avenue S. For more information, see https://events.tc.umn.edu/event.pl?eid=114048 .

"SCIENCE AND POLITICS: PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS," presented by Kurt Gottfried, cofounder and chair of the Union of Concerned Scientists and professor emeritus of physics, Cornell U, will be the first in the 2006-07 Lunch Series on the Societal Implications of the Life Sciences. Sept. 19, 12:15- 1:30 p.m., Coffman Theater. Free and open to the public; for lunch, register by Sept. 15 by contacting [email protected] or 612-625-0055 (please indicate if vegetarian or vegan). For more information, see http://www.lifesci.consortium.umn.edu/news_and_events/events.php?id=199 .

ANNUAL COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT FAIR is an opportunity for students to learn how they can make a difference in their communities in the Twin Cities. Representatives from more than 80 organizations seek students for positions that match their majors or interests. Students may sign up to win a $100 gift certificate for U Bookstores. Sept. 20, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Great Hall, Coffman Union. For more information, see http://www.cclc.umn.edu/CIF .

MOVIE TICKET SALE THROUGH SEPT. 30: Discount movie tickets at the student unions are now $5.25 for Muller Family Theaters and $6.25 for Regal and Crown theaters. Discount tickets to the Renaissance Festival, Valleyfair, Underwater Adventures, and Mann and AMC theaters are also available. Go to the information desks in Coffman Union or the St. Paul Student Center or Gopher Express in the West Bank Skyway.

MORE EVENTS include "'Bowling Alone' or Acting Together: The Structural Basis of Local Civic Action," (today); "Who Says Pluto Is Not a Planet?!" (Sept. 14); Paint the Bridge (Sept. 14-15); German techno-artist Oliver Lieb on the Frankfurt techno scene (Sept. 16); Sonny Rollins at Northrop (Sept. 17); Keys to Supervision (Sept. 18); "Why We Must Stay the Course in Iraq" by renowned military historian and Stanford U professor Victor Davis Hanson (Sept. 19); U professor Karal Ann Marling on her new book, Designs on the Heart: The Homemade Art of Grandma Moses (Sept. 20); and "Behind the Footlights: 43 Years of Guthrie Theater History," an exhibit at Andersen Library (through Sept. 27). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (9-20-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_9202006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 30; Sept. 20, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Private gifts to the U totaled $181 million in fiscal year 2006. --North American perspectives on biofuels development presented by College of Biological Sciences dean at EU conference. --UMM appoints first campus sustainability coordinator; UMAA honors volunteers; and more.

Transforming the U --Institute on the Environment report is now posted. --CFANS dean candidate forums this week are Sept. 22 and 26.

PRIVATE GIFTS TO THE U TOTALED $181 MILLION in fiscal year 2006, slightly ahead of last year's total and up 25 percent from 2004. Support of student scholarships was especially strong. The number of faculty and staff donors rose 4 percent to nearly 5,290 this year. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Gift_receipts.html .

THE NORTH AMERICAN PERSPECTIVE ON BIOFUELS DEVELOPMENT was presented by College of Biological Sciences dean Robert Elde at a European Union conference on bioenergy, in Norway, Sept. 13. His presentation included details about research at the U of M. Elde and a delegation of U faculty and staff also met with scientists at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences to review collaborative research projects and explore new opportunities. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3272&from=umnnews and http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Ethanol_fuel_presents_a_cornundrum.html .

PEOPLE: UMM's first campus sustainability coordinator is Troy Goodnough; U of M Alumni Association (UMAA) volunteers were honored Sept. 15, including Faculty/Staff Volunteer of the Year Debra Skaar, College of Pharmacy. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

"A BLUEPRINT FOR CREATING THE INSTITUTE ON THE ENVIRONMENT for the University of Minnesota" was posted Sept. 15. The U-wide institute, dedicated to research on major environmental problems, will bring together multidisciplinary teams to work on global environmental issues with regional significance. Read the report at http://www.umn.edu/systemwide/strategic_positioning .

COLLEGE OF FOOD, AGRICULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCE SCIENCES (CFANS) dean candidate public forums this week will be held at the St. Paul Student Center Theater, 10 a.m.-noon, on the following dates: Sept. 22, Allen Levine, professor and head, Department of Food Science and Nutrition; Sept. 26, Curtis Richardson, professor of resource ecology, Duke University. For more information, see http://www.cfans.umn.edu/deansearch .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

"KEEPING OUR FACULTIES IV: RECRUITING, RETAINING, AND ADVANCING FACULTY OF COLOR" CALL FOR ABSTRACTS. Faculty and staff are invited to submit abstracts for the fourth national symposium in a series to be hosted by the U Apr. 12-14, 2007. The meetings address challenges in efforts to diversify the professoriate--one of the most important challenges faced by higher learning institutions. One-page abstracts will be accepted online through Oct. 31. For more information, see http://www.cce.umn.edu/kof .

A RECEPTION IN HONOR OF NANCY "RUSTY" BARCELÓ, the U's first VP for equity and diversity, will be hosted by the Office of the President. Faculty and staff are cordially invited to attend. Oct. 3, 3- 4:30 p.m., A.I. Johnson Room, McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC. For more information, see http://www.academic.umn.edu/equity .

OCTOBER IS FINANCIAL LITERACY MONTH, aimed to help educate students about strategies for managing their finances. To learn more, read this month's edition of The Record, now online at http://onestop.umn.edu/onestop/Contact_Us/News2C_Events2C_and_Activities/The_Record/Record_200609.html .

ENROLLMENT REPORT GRADING BASIS CHANGE: Beginning this semester, the grading basis--A-F, S/N, and AUD--will no longer appear on instructors' enrollment reports for courses on the A-F grading scale. Instructors will give all students a letter (A-F) grade; for those students who enrolled S/N, the computer will automatically convert the letter grade to an S (if it is C- or above) or N (if D+ or below). Courses in which all students are graded S/N will continue to submit S/N grades only. The change responds to a recommendation to the U Senate by the Senate Committee on Educational Policy (SCEP) last spring. For more information, contact Tina Falkner, [email protected] .

THE NEXT CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE MEETING WILL BE AT UMD, Sept. 27, 9-11:30 a.m., Regents Room, Darland Administration Building. The meeting will be followed by lunch and a tour. UMD civil service staff are invited to the business session and asked to contact Linda Olcott at [email protected] regarding seating availability. For more information about the CSC, see http://www.umn.edu/csc .

SUCCESSFUL MANAGERS LEADERSHIP PROGRAM is now open for registration. The program addresses the manager's role as a leader, helps participants to understand and address personal strengths and weaknesses, and equips them with tools to be successful as a leader. Learn more and sign up at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/leadership/seminar .

COMING SOON FROM UPLAN WELLNESS: This fall, U employees statewide can enroll in the 10,000 Steps® program from HealthPartners, sponsored by Health Connections. 10,000 Steps® encourages participants to set a fitness goal and then gradually work toward achieving the recommended 10,000 steps a day. More information about how to receive a free pedometer and register using the U's promotional code will arrive in campus and home mailboxes soon.

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH GRANT applications are being accepted through Oct. 16. Assistant professors who have no independent national funding and are engaged in cancer-related research are eligible for grants up to $25,000. Research may include genetic mechanisms of cancer, molecular mechanisms of cancer progression and metastasis, development of novel therapeutic models and translational research, and cancer immunology and immunotherapy. For an application, contact [email protected] or 612-626-1926.

U.S. INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION WEEK 2006 WILL BE NOV. 13-17. All campuses, colleges, departments, and student organizations are encouraged to plan activities and events that highlight international education at the U. For more information, see http://www.international.umn.edu/IEweek .

2006 GUY STANTON FORD LECTURE, "Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and Da Vinci," by Elaine Pagels, is free and open to the public; seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Oct. 6, 12:15 p.m., Ted Mann Concert Hall, UMTC. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/news/ford or contact [email protected] or 612-625-7579.

Crookston:

A PRE-VET OPTION in UMC's animal and equine industries management programs has been approved by the regents. Students can begin to register in the programs in spring 2007. For more information, see http://academics.umcrookston.edu/agri .

A VINEYARD AND WINERY TOUR for prospective grape growers was hosted by UMC and local nurseries and vineyards Sept. 14. The U's grape breeding program and private breeders are making progress in producing cold-hardy grapes, responding to intensified interest in grape production among farm families seeking crop diversification and to public support for locally grown products. For more information and photos, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews .

"ROCKIN' ON AND STILL GOING STRONG" is the theme for homecoming week, Sept. 25-30. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story348.html .

Duluth:

GRAND OPENING OF THE NEW $12.4 MILLION SPORTS AND HEALTH CENTER ADDITION is today. Chancellor Martin will kick off ceremonies at 11 a.m., with activities throughout the day including guided tours, fitness classes and demonstrations, and free hotdogs, fruit, and veggie burgers. The 46,000-square-foot facility contains northern Minnesota's largest and most comprehensive athletic and recreational facilities. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu or http://www.umdrsop.org/facilities .

AUTHOR OF THE BEST-SELLING The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series, Alexander McCall Smith, will speak on "The Very Small Things of Life," a talk about the books' setting in Botswana--a successful democracy with a stable economy, minimal corruption, and a reputation for facing the AIDS crisis. Sponsored by the Alworth Institute for International Studies. Sept. 25, 7:30 p.m., Kirby Ballroom. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/September/12.html .

Morris:

A PILOT PROGRAM, "Lifelong Learning: Liberal Arts Courses for Seniors" in western Minnesota, will be developed with a new $5,000 grant from the UMTC Osher Lifelong Learning Institute to UMM Continuing Education Regional Programs and Summer Session (CERP). Osher institutes are located at 73 college campuses around the country. The pilot at UMM will be based on the Osher model, with volunteer instructors and facilitators leading courses attended by retired adults. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1157 .

THE UMM TELESCOPE IS OPEN FOR PUBLIC OBSERVATION, weather permitting, Sept. 22, Oct. 20, Nov. 3 and 10, and Dec. 8. For more information, see http://cda.mrs.umn.edu/~kearnsk/Telescope/PubObs.htm .

Rochester:

SIGNATURE SERIES 2006: THE BEST IN TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT will bring eight one-day courses from the UMTC management of technology (MOT) master's program to Rochester. The series explores unique concerns of managing and leading technology-based functions and organizations. Oct. 9-12 and Oct. 30-Nov. 2, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., UMR. For more information, see http://www.r.umn.edu/Signature_Series_2006.htm .

Twin Cities:

SHOW YOUR U SPIRIT: Send one or two representatives from your office or department to the Maroon & Gold Fridays Kickoff for Goldy Gopher's Ambassadors. Free lunch, gifts, and a chance to meet Goldy and see the U cheer team. Sept. 22, noon-1 p.m. To register, see http://www.alumni.umn.edu/mgf .

GROUND BREAKING FOR HANSON HALL, the new building devoted to undergraduate education at the Carlson School of Management, will be held Sept. 28, 5:30 p.m. The event will begin indoors: join President Bruininks and other U and community leaders for a virtual tour and interactive display of the new building, followed by a ceremonial ground breaking. Register by Sept. 22 at http://www.csom.umn.edu/events ; see also https://www.carlsonschool.umn.edu/Page4429.aspx .

LEARNING ABROAD FAIR will host representatives from dozens of program cosponsors and partners. Faculty and advisers can get a close look at the breadth of opportunities available to undergraduates. Sept. 20, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., west end of the Washington Avenue Bridge. For more information, see http://www.umabroad.umn.edu .

STUDY ABROAD INFO SESSIONS FOR FACULTY AND ADVISERS are held the third Thursday each month. Learn more about education-abroad programs, advising issues, and upcoming opportunities. First session of the year will be "Programs in Spanish-Speaking Countries," Sept. 21, 9-10 a.m., 289 Humphrey Center. For more information, see http://www.umabroad.umn.edu/news .

SNEAK PREVIEW OF "TOUCH THE SKY: PRAIRIE PHOTOGRAPHS BY JIM BRANDENBURG" for U faculty, staff, students, and parents will be held Sept. 29, 3-4:30 p.m., Bell Museum, with free exhibit posters to the first 25 guests. For more information, see http://events.umn.edu/event? occurrence=396615;event=113995 .

"AGRICULTURE BIOTECHNOLOGY: THE NEXT GENERATION," a one-day conference on the life sciences revolution in food and agriculture, will feature Charles Muscoplat, VP for agriculture policy. Sept. 29, Science Museum of Minnesota. Register online at http://www.agrigrowth.org .

FORMER U.S. SECRETARY OF STATE COLIN POWELL will headline the 2006 Distinguished Carlson Lecture, with "Leadership: Taking Charge." Oct. 3, 12:15-1:15 p.m., Northrop Auditorium. The lecture is free and open to the public, but tickets are required (limit two per person); tickets will be available Sept. 26. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=3273&from=umnnews .

RESCHEDULED: Sonny Rollins concert Sept. 17 has been postponed to Oct. 31. Limited tickets are still available. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umato .

MORE EVENTS include "Our Ancestors the Sighted: Making Blind People French and French People Blind," by Catherine Kuldick (Sept. 20); "Songs in an Andalusian Key: Musical Style, Identity Politics, and Andalusian Nostalgia in Pop Music From Spain, North Africa, and Israel," by Lourdes Alvarez (Sept. 21); "Hidden Voices: The Lives of Queer Muslims," by activist Faisal Alam (Sept. 21); first Small World Coffee Hour of the year (Sept. 22); "American Fashion Transformed: Four Master Designers" of the post-World War II era (opens Sept. 23); "Design and Meaning: Community Design Practice" (Sept. 25); Supervisory Training Core Program (Sept. 26); and "Twenty Women in Science: Journeys in Academia," hosted by grad students in animal science (Sept. 27). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (9-27-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_9272006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 31; Sept. 27, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Driven to Discover initiative goes public today. --Dedication of U Scholars Walk and Wall of Discovery at UMTC will be Sept. 29. --Public engagement spotlight: Educational psychology professor Ernest Davenport brings high school students to campus. --Civil Service Committee: Staff members needed for two seats on U Senate committees. --People: Apostolos Georgopoulos elected to global neuroscientists group, and more.

Transforming the U --Institute on the Environment interim director is Deborah Swackhamer. --Final CFANS dean candidate forum will be Sept. 29.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

DRIVEN TO DISCOVER debuts today as a new way to communicate the benefits of a public research university to the state and to build greater public and philanthropic support for the U. In addition to a Web site, signs, banners, sidewalk clings, posters, and other materials, the initiative includes an innovative "We are all search engines" advertising campaign that will reach 83 percent of the state through TV, radio, and print media. Communicator toolkits will be available soon. Faculty, staff, and students got a preview last week and can learn more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Driven_to_Discover.html .

DEDICATION OF THE SCHOLARS WALK AND UNVEILING OF THE WALL OF DISCOVERY will be Sept. 29, 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m., outside the Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences Building, UMTC. The Scholars Walk honors some 800 people with U connections who have gained national or international recognition for academic or creative achievements. The Wall of Discovery, which displays a metaphoric blackboard inscribed with research, notes, and drawings of 92 scholars, will be unveiled at noon. Everyone is welcome. An ice cream social will follow the dedication. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_gears_up_for_big_weekend_of_events.html .

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT: PartnersWork attracts local high school students to the Twin Cities campus for a free ACT/SAT review course every Saturday in the winter. Educational psychology faculty member Ernest Davenport--whose research focus is standardized testing--has a commitment to public engagement that has been a key to the program's success. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/PartnersWork_helps_bridge_achievement_gap.html .

CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE: CSC chair Peg Wolff knows that most of issues that make it to the floor of the University Senate have been hashed through in one of the hardworking senate committees. Civil service staff seats are still open on two of those committees--All-University Honors and the Twin Cities Facilities and Support Services. Current representatives on other committees talked last week about their experiences. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Civil_Service_Committee/Where_you_can_shape_debate.html .

PEOPLE: Apostolos Georgopoulos, regents professor and director of the Brain Science Center, has been elected to the Cajal Club of the world's top neuroscientists; UMM's Ray Schultz has won a Wilde Award for Theatre Excellence; cardiology professor Jay Cohn received the first lifetime achievement award of the Heart Failure Society of America; and Jennifer Kuzma has been appointed interim director of the Center for Science, Technology, and Public Policy in the Humphrey Institute. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

THE NEW INSTITUTE ON THE ENVIRONMENT'S INTERIM DIRECTOR is Deborah Swackhamer, professor of environmental health sciences, School of Public Health, and codirector of the U's Water Resource Center. The institute will be located at UMTC but be a virtual roof for all environmental research across the U statewide. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/Swackhamer.html .

COLLEGE OF FOOD, AGRICULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCE SCIENCES (CFANS) final dean candidate, Eric Triplett, U of Florida at Gainesville, will speak at a public forum Sept. 29, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., St. Paul Student Center Theater. For more information, see http://www.cfans.umn.edu/deansearch .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

TECHNOLOGY-ENHANCED LEARNING (TEL) SEMINARS this fall will be "Improving Learning With Technology-Enhanced Simulations" (Oct. 4), "Improving Macromedia Breeze Learning Activities" (Nov. 1), and "Using Technology to Support Community and Collaboration" (Dec. 6). Noon-1:30 p.m.; sessions will be held at UMTC and also webcast. For more information, see http://dmc.umn.edu/series/fall06.shtml .

TRANSGENDER COMMMISSION OPEN HOUSE: Learn about the work of the newly formed U of M Transgender Commission, meet the commission members, and find out how to get involved. Everyone is welcome; appetizers and refreshments will be served. Oct. 6, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Campus Club, fourth floor, Coffman Union, UMTC. Cosponsored by the GLBTA Programs Office and the Office of the VP and Vice Provost for Equity and Diversity. For more information, contact Ross at [email protected] or 612-626-3064. See also http://www.academic.umn.edu/equity .

GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL DAY 2006 will feature more than 100 graduate and professional programs from across the nation. Workshops on topics such as how to apply and fund graduate or professional school will also be offered. Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Great Hall, Coffman Union. For more information, see http://www.cclc.umn.edu/GSD .

Crookston:

STUDENTS AND RESEARCH took center stage at the Creative Activity, Scholarship, and Experiential Learning (CASE) poster session Sept. 22, cosponsored by a faculty development grant to enhance student learning, funded by the Bush Foundation. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story350.html .

COLLEGE IN THE HIGH SCHOOLS: A workshop attended by 46 high school instructors in math, physics, composition, literature, and public speaking and UMC department heads and instructors was held at the Crookston campus Sept. 25. The high school instructors represented 28 school districts statewide. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story359.html .

"MOVING FROM DISORGANIZED THOUGHT TO PURPOSEFUL BEHAVIOR," a workshop on improving academic effectiveness for students diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), will be presented by Laurie Petersen, certified ADHD coach, U of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. Sept. 28, 9 a.m.-noon, Youngquist Auditorium. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story352.html .

Duluth:

THE ANNUAL WEBER CONCERT SERIES begins its fifth season this week in Weber Music Hall with the Sinfonietta de Paris, UMD Music Ensembles, and renowned clarinetist Richard Stolzman, Sept. 28, 7:30 p.m. Stolzman and his son, jazz pianist and keyboardist Peter Stolzman, will perform together Sept. 30, 7:30 p.m. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/music ; for tickets, call 218- 726-8561.

UMD HOMECOMING CELEBRATION will be Oct. 6-7 with the theme "Come Home." Football game vs. Augustana will be Oct. 7, 1 p.m., Malosky Stadium; pregame tailgate party begins at 11 a.m. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/unirel/alumni/homecoming.html or contact [email protected] or 218-726-7164.

Morris:

COMMUNITY OUTREACH PARTNERSHIP CENTER (COPC), creating partnerships between UMM and the city of Morris, will celebrate one-and-a-half years of progress in a special event today with Kinnard Wright, head, COPC grant project, Housing and Urban Development, Washington, D.C. Display of local projects begins at 8:30 a.m., Morris Senior/Community Center. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1198 .

Twin Cities:

FOOTBALL RELAY AND GROUND BREAKING FOR TCF BANK STADIUM will include hundreds of U supporters handing off a football from the Metrodome, through campus, to the site of the new stadium at the Gopher parking lot on Oak and 4th Streets S.E., Minneapolis. Sept. 30. Relay begins at 12:30 p.m., ground breaking at 2 p.m. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/stadium .

GOPHER FOOTBALL FACULTY & STAFF APPRECIATION DAYS are Sept. 30, 7 p.m., vs. Michigan, tickets $35 (regular $50); and homecoming, Nov. 4, 11 a.m., vs. Indiana, tickets $30 (regular $45). Buy tickets at the U of M Bookstore in Coffman Union or the ticket office in Mariucci Arena, Sept. 18-Nov. 4. For more information, see http://gophersports.com .

PILLSBURY COURT FACULTY RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY has several townhouse openings that can't be filled from the current waiting list. To be eligible, faculty members must have resided in the Twin Cities less than 18 months. For more information, see http://www.housing.umn.edu/visitors/faculty/pillsbury.shtml or call 612-624-1969 or 625-2121.

CAMPUS BLOOD DRIVE IS TOMORROW, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center. Please schedule your appointment beforehand by visiting http://www.givelife.org and entering the sponsor code uofmacademic. If you have traveled outside the country in the past year or have other questions about your eligibility to donate blood, call the ARC nurse at 651-291-3885 before scheduling. Donors must present a photo ID at check-in. For more information, contact Jenny Meslow at the Academic Health Center, [email protected] .

WELCOME-BACK TICKET GIVEAWAY SEPT. 29: See Underwater Adventures' live baby shark and the Fab 4 in Coffman Union's Fireplace Lounge at noon. While you're there, enter for a chance to win tickets to Underwater Adventures, the Minnesota Zoo, AMC movie theaters, and IMAX theater, and a round-trip bus ticket from Jefferson Lines. Go to the Coffman information desk by Sept. 29 to enter and fill out a short survey. For more information, see http://www.coffman.umn.edu/info .

"WOMEN IN SCIENCE: JOURNEYS IN ACADEMIA" will feature three prominent women scientists in a symposium for graduate students, cosponsored by the Animal Sciences Graduate Students and several offices. Today, 1-4 p.m., 125 Animal Science/Vet Med, St. Paul. For more information, see http://www.ansci.umn.edu and http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=3297&from=umnnews .

"NUTRACEUTICALS: SUPPLEMENTS, BOTANICAL DRUGS, AND NATURAL PRODUCTS--Science, Safety, and Efficacy," presented by Mark Blumenthal, American Botanical Council, will kick off the 2006-07 Lecture Series on Law, Health, and the Life Sciences. Oct. 4, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Coffman Theater. Free and open to the public; register by Oct. 2 at [email protected] or 612-625-0055. For more information, see http://www.lifesci.consortium.umn.edu/news_and_events .

"THE PILEUS PROJECT: CLIMATE SCIENCE IN SUPPORT OF DECISION MAKING for an Intensively Managed Agricultural Crop," by Julie Winkler, geography, Michigan State U, will be the 14th Annual Kuehnast Lecture, sponsored by the Department of Soil, Water, and Climate. Winkler is researching the impact of climate change on Michigan's tart cherry industry. Oct. 4, 3:30 p.m., 335 Borlaug Hall. For more information, see http://climate.umn.edu/doc/journal/kuehnast_lecture .

"HEADLINERS," a new monthly program to connect faculty experts with adult learners to discuss timely topics, will open with "The Prospects for Peace in the Middle East," by Michael Barnett, chair of international relations at the Humphrey Institute and a national authority on Middle East politics. Oct. 5, 7 p.m., Continuing Education and Conference Center, St. Paul. $10 per event. To register, see http://www.cce.umn.edu/enrichment/headliners .

A SERIES OF FIVE SEMINARS ON TECHNOLOGY COMMERCIALIZATION for graduate and Ph.D. students in science- and technology-related colleges will be sponsored by the Carlson School of Management's Center for Entrepreneurial Studies and 3M through April. Leading entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and academics will discuss the challenges of turning technical and scientific breakthroughs into successful businesses. The first session, "Recognizing and Evaluating Opportunities," will be Oct. 9, 4-6 p.m., Carlson School. For more information, contact [email protected] or 612-624-0226.

MORE EVENTS include a gubernatorial debate with candidates Pawlenty, Hatch, and Hutchinson (today); U professor John Wright discussing his new book, Shadowing Ralph Ellison (Sept. 28); ground breaking for Carlson School's Hanson Hall (Sept. 28); "Still Present Pasts: Korean Americans and the 'Forgotten War,'" a discussion with artist In Joo Whang (Sept. 29); "Touch the Sky" Jim Brandenburg photo exhibit premiere (Sept. 30); "Irene on TV" (Oct. 1); U political science instructor Jeff Taylor discussing his book, Where Did the Party Go? (Oct. 2); former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell (Oct. 3); a reception for first VP and vice provost for access and equity, Nancy "Rusty" BarcelÓ (Oct. 3); and U professor Rose Brewer discussing her book, The Color of Wealth: The Story Behind the U.S. Racial Wealth Divide (Oct. 4). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

UMTC NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (10-04-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_10042006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 32; Oct. 4, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Public jobs, private data: A new online data security training program for faculty, staff, and student employees on all U campuses is rolling out. --Finding your career foundations: A new one-day course combining several workshops debuts Oct. 25. --People: Mark Seeley wins top Extension Service award, and more.

Transforming the U --Profile of new CEHD dean Darlyne Bailey, who arrived at UMTC Oct. 2.

PUBLIC JOBS, PRIVATE DATA: For more than a year, the U of M and the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) have worked together to develop "Public Jobs: Private Data," an easy, Web-based program to give all employees the training they need to be responsible stewards of public data and public trust. The new training covers not only HIPAA but other federal and state laws and U policies. Academic Health Center faculty and staff are completing the three primary 15- minute segments now. The rest of UMTC will begin training this month, followed by UMD, UMC, and UMM. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Public_jobs_private_data.html .

FINDING YOUR CAREER FOUNDATIONS: Identifying what's important to you is key to charting a career path. For years, employees have been using the U's Center for Human Resource Development (CHRD) to do that through workshops on personality, skills, and interests. Now the CHRD staff has developed a one-day course that puts all the pieces together. Career Foundations debuts Oct. 25. Register now--space is limited. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_of_Human_Resources/Finding_satisfying_work.html .

PEOPLE: Mark Seeley, climatologist-meteorologist and professor, has received the U of M Extension Service's top award; UMD theater professor Tom Isbell's new musical, a collaboration with political humorist Mark Russell, will open at the Kennedy Center Oct. 13; Melissa Gardner, a graduate student in biomedical engineering, has won the Paper of the Year award from the editors of Molecular Biology of the Cell. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

NEW CEHD DEAN Darlyne Bailey: When her parents gave her a stethoscope for her birthday, the 9- year-old Darlyne Bailey started seeing patients immediately. Bailey's shingle ended up saying not M.D. but Ph.D., a path to what she sees as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity--the chance to lead the new College of Education and Human Development at the U of M, Twin Cities. Bailey began her duties this week. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Rising_star.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

FALL WELLNESS CAMPAIGN: 10,000 STEPS. U employees statewide can enroll in the 10,000 Steps program to boost physical activity. Use the U of M promotional access code PNUSTEP to register at http://www.healthconnections.umn.edu . Set a goal and then work gradually toward achieving the recommended 10,000 steps a day. Partners and early retirees can participate. Receive a new, high quality pedometer; UPlan members are also eligible to earn a $65 wellness reward for completing the eight-week program. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/workwell/wellness/healthconnections/steps .

NEW EARLY CHILDHOOD RESEARCH COLLABORATIVE is a partnership of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and the Center for Early Childhood Education, designed to enhance multidisciplinary research and high profile policy discussions. Its first public event will be a conference featuring Nobel laureate James Heckman, U of Chicago, Oct. 13, Humphrey Center, UMTC. Read more at http://www.earlychildhoodrc.org .

"CREATING A CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS," a keynote by Mary Howard Hamilton, Indiana State U, will be part of this year's Focusing on the First Year conference. The one-day event provides an exchange of ideas, best practices, and opportunities to strengthen collaboration that enhances the first-year student experience. Oct. 16, Coffman Union, UMTC; register by Oct. 6. For more information, see http://www.ofyp.umn.edu/topnavpgs/facstaff/fyconference .

"MOVING TOWARD SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS: Exploring Global Pathways to a Common Destination" will be the second in a three-part conference series on climate change and sustainable development. The Upper Midwest and India will provide examples for comparison of local and national constraints and opportunities. Keynote speaker: R. K. Pachauri, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the Energy Research Institute. Oct. 24-25, Humphrey Center, UMTC; early registration is recommended. For more information, see http://www.hhh.umn.edu/centers/stpp/global_climate_econdvlp.html or [email protected] or 612- 626-1593.

"COLLEGE HEALTH SUMMIT: TOBACCO, ALCOHOL, AND OTHER DRUG USE AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS" will feature the release of a spring 2006 survey of all the U campuses. Parking and lunch provided. Free, but registration is required. Nov. 2, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Humphrey Center, UMTC. For more information, see http://www.bhs.umn.edu/healthdata/summit or 612-626-5520.

FRIENDS OF EASTCLIFF BOOK DISCUSSIONS for 2006-07 will open with Oath Betrayed: Torture, Medical Complicity, and the War on Terror, by U professor Steven Miles, Oct. 16. Subsequent books will be Mommy Knows Worst: Highlights From the Golden Age of Bad Parenting Advice, by James Lileks (Dec. 4); Dial M: The Murder of Carol Thompson, by Bill Swanson (Jan. 25); Gardenias, by Faith Sullivan (March 1); and The Translation of Dr. Apelles, by David Treuer (April 17). Membership in Friends of Eastcliff is open to anyone; membership fees support maintenance of Eastcliff, historic home of U presidents. For more information, see http://www.bookstore.umn.edu/eastcliff.html .

Crookston:

DIVERSITY AWARNESS WEEK will include a wide range of activities, including talks by Debra Davis, former executive director of the Minnesota nonprofit Gender Education Center, and Anne Phibbs, director of the U-wide GLBT Programs Office. Bede Ballroom, Student Center. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story362.html .

A RECEPTION TO HONOR UMC WOMEN ATHLETES will include special guests Patricia Simmons, vice chair, Board of Regents, and Susan Hagstrum, wife of President Bruininks. Oct. 11, 5 p.m., Lysaker Gymnasium lobby; short program at 5:30 p.m. The public is welcome. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story365.html .

Duluth:

THE 12-MINUTE TRAILER OF NOT MADE IN HEAVEN, a documentary by art and design faculty members Sarah Bauer and Jen Dietrich about 20th century artist Philip Pearlstein, premiered in September at the IFP Market in New York. The trailer will be screened with a discussion, Oct. 5, 7:30 p.m., Tweed Museum of Art. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/tma .

THE DEPARTMENT OF WOMEN'S STUDIES 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION will include a panel discussion, "Back to the Future: A Quarter Century of Women's Studies at UMD," with special guest Marge Grevatt, a feminist community activist now in Cleveland who helped launch women's studies at UMD. A quilt unveiling and a reception will follow. Oct. 6, noon, Kirby Garden Room. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/ws/main .

Morris:

"THE AL FRANKEN SHOW" will broadcast live on Air America Radio from UMM's Edson Auditorium, Oct. 6, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free and open to the public; hosted by two student organizations: the Campus Activities Council Convocations Committee and the Student DFL. Doors open a half-hour before the show. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php? itemID=1431 .

SCIENTISTS ON THE SPOT for Science Buzz, hosted by the Science Museum of Minnesota, will be UMM sustainability coordinator Troy Goodnough and West Central Research and Outreach Center director Greg Cuomo Oct. 13-Dec. 14. Goodnough will field questions on the UMM gasification project and Cuomo on the wind turbine and wind power. For more information, see http://www.smm.org/buzz .

Rochester:

OAKLAND SCULPTOR and award-winning public artist Ruth Santee, U of California, Davis, will give a lecture, followed by a reception. Oct. 5, noon, CC200 (Quiet Lounge). For more information, see http://www.r.umn.edu .

Twin Cities:

MINNESOTA CHARITIES COUNT ON YOU: 2006 COMMUNITY FUND DRIVE IS OCT. 1-31. The drive kicked off this week, giving faculty and staff an opportunity to support a wide variety of respected, well-run community organizations. These groups support social services, education, arts, health, the environment, and much more. This year, UMTC aims to raise $1.2 million in pledges from at least one-third of the campus's employees. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/cfd .

DOES LIVING WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE to work or classes at the U appeal to you? Take three minutes to complete a survey to help plan attractive housing options within walking distance for faculty, staff, graduate students, and alumni. Sponsored by the U's Center for Urban and Regional Affairs and neighborhoods adjacent to UMTC in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Fill out the survey at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=432702571939 .

ENGLISH CONVERSATION VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: The U Center for Teaching and Learning seeks individuals to be English conversation partners for international graduate students, meeting an hour per week this fall, on or near campus. Training is provided. For more information, contact Caroline Rosen at [email protected] or 612-625-3017.

EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGISTS FORUM MEETINGS this semester will discuss Moodle open source courseware (Oct. 11) and Xythos file management tool (Dec. 13). For more information, see http://dmc.umn.edu/etf/schedule06.shtml .

2004 PHYSICS NOBEL LAUREATE Frank Wilczek, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, will speak on "The Origin of Mass and Feebleness of Gravity." Today, 4 p.m., 150 Tate Laboratory of Physics. For more information, see http://www.ftpi.umn.edu .

A CELEBRATION OF THE "SCRIBES FOR HUMAN RIGHTS" PROGRAM will feature Pulitzer Prize winning author Tracy Kidder and the first scribe, MFA student Laura Flynn. Oct. 12, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Minneapolis Central Library. Deadline to register: today--contact [email protected] or 612-626-7947. For more information, see http://hrp.cla.umn.edu/projects_events.html .

"STARTING PLACES FOR INTEGRATIVE LEADERSHIP: PEOPLE AND CONTEXT" will feature Project for Pride in Living director Steve Cramer, Itasca Project chair James Campbell, and others. Oct. 12, 3:45-6 p.m., 3M Auditorium, Carlson School of Management; a reception will follow. Deadline to register: Oct. 8--to [email protected] . For more information, see http://www.hhh.umn.edu/news/headlines/headlines2006/hhh_events.html .

A MICROBIOLOGY SYMPOSIUM to honor retiring professor Peter Plagemann will include the Winford P. Larson Lecture, "Discovery of New Horizons for Infectious Protein Folding (Prion) Diseases," by Michael Oldstone, Scripps Research Institute. Oct. 13, noon-1 p.m., followed by a reception. The symposium is free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.microbiology.med.umn.edu .

"BACK TO THE FUTURE: EXPLORING THE WORLD OF NURSING INNOVATION," by Marie Manthey, president emerita of Creative Healthcare Management, will highlight entrepreneurship in nursing. Oct. 16, 12:15-1:30 p.m., 2-530 Moos Tower. Light lunch will be provided; registration is requested. For more information, see http://www.nursing.umn.edu/Foundation/Events/PrintyLecture/home.html .

SAVE THE DATE: A retrospective on Elizabeth Cady Stanton by Karlyn Kohrs Campbell, professor of communication studies, will be the Fall 2006 Ada Comstock Distinguished Women Scholars Lecture. Campbell is a pioneer in feminist rhetorical discourse and theory. Oct. 25, 7:30 p.m., Cowles Auditorium, Humphrey Center. Sponsored by the Office of the Senior VP and Provost, Graduate School, Office for U Women, and U of M Libraries. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/women .

RECENT CAMPUS EVENTS have included the on-campus stadium ground breaking (see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_breaks_ground_for_new_stadium.html ) and unveiling of 34 senior interior design students' proposals for office space to temporarily house the University Northside Partnership in north Minneapolis (see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3306&from=umnnews ).

MORE EVENTS include the 21st annual Silha Lecture, "The Freedom of the Press v. the National Security," by Geoffrey Stone, U of Chicago Law School (today); professor Madelon Sprengnether on her new book of prose poems, The Angel of Duluth (Oct. 5); the first Headliners monthly date with a faculty expert, "The Prospects for Peace in the Middle East," by Michael Barnett, Humphrey Institute (Oct. 5); "Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and Da Vinci," by Elaine Pagels, Princeton U, as the annual Guy Stanton Ford Lecture (Oct. 6); CEHD's Saturday Scholars classes (Oct. 7); Garrison Keillor talking about his book, Homegrown Democrat (Oct. 9); "Pink Ribbons, Inc.: Breast Cancer and the Politics of Philanthropy" (Oct. 9); "Best Seat in the House--From the Locker Room to the Press Box: Women's Sports in the 21st Century," by Christine Brennan, USA Today, for the Tucker Center's fall distinguished lecture (Oct. 10); "The National Surveillance State," by Jack Balkin, Yale U, the Law School's William B. Lockhart Lecture (Oct. 10); all about avian flu at Cafe Scientifique (Oct. 10). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (10-11-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_10112006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 33; Oct. 11, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Public engagement: Scribes for Human Rights celebrates a successful first year. --UMTC Community Fund Drive: Professor Yoji Shimizu, lab medicine and pathology, went a step farther to help the community. --People: Craig Taylor received the Corporate Star Award from the Minnesota Minority Supplier Development Council; Claudia Parliament has won the state Vision Award for economic education.

Transforming the U --Consortium for Postsecondary Academic Success convened Oct. 6 to discuss vision for preK-12 education in Minnesota. --Institute for the Advancement of Science and Technology: Advisory committee on creating the institute was appointed Oct. 9.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT: THE SCRIBES FOR HUMAN RIGHTS PROGRAM was born when UMTC College of Liberal Arts faculty members Barbara Frey, Human Rights Program, and Patricia Hampl, Creative Writing Program, formed a partnership of high-stakes subject matter and fine writers in training. The program's first scribe, Laura Flynn, traveled four states to document the stories of immigrants detained in Midwest jails. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_for_Public_Engagement/Stories_that_need_telling.html .

UTMC COMMUNITY FUND DRIVE: Lab medicine and pathology professor Yoji Shimizu is an active volunteer for Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless, one of several organizations supported by the Community Fund Drive (CFD) at UMTC. Four years ago, Shimizu was spurred by the CFD to get involved beyond a financial contribution. The CFD supports social services, education, arts, health, the environment, and much more; it continues through Oct. 31. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/What_everybody_should_do.html .

PEOPLE: Craig Taylor, Office for Business and Community Economic Development, received the Corporate Star Award from the Minnesota Minority Supplier Development Council; Judson Sheridan, genetics, and Norway's Odd Jarle Skjelhaugen have been named to share the Norwegian Centennial Interdisciplinary Chair; Claudia Parliament, applied economics, has won the Vision Award from the state's Department of Employment and Economic Development. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

CONSORTIUM FOR POSTSECONDARY ACADEMIC SUCCESS: The goals are preparing youth for higher education, improving access, and closing the achievement gap; a new U consortium, led by Kent Pekel, is aiming to meet those goals. About 250 school superintendents and other educators from preK-12 and higher education, foundation leaders, and business and community leaders met at the U Oct. 6 to lay out a new vision for preK-12 education in Minnesota. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/A_new_vision_for_Minnesota_preK12.html .

INSTITUTE FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: The provost's advisory committee on creation of the new institute was appointed Oct. 9. The chair is Claudia Neuhauser, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Professor and head, Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior; members are Judith Berman, Daniel Dahlberg, Timothy Ebner, Stephen Ekker, John Goodge, Megan Gunnar, Karen Hsiao Ashe, Vipin Kumar, Ellen Longmire, Susan Mantell, Matthew McGue, Mark Paller, Ronald Phillips, Ronald Siegel, Fotis Sotiropoulos, and Nevin Young. The idea for the new institute flows from a recommendation made by the strategic positioning Science and Engineering Task Force. The committee will provide a report to the provost in spring 2007. For more information, see http://www.academic.umn.edu/provost/interdisc/sci_tech .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

THE BOARD OF REGENTS WILL MEET IN CROOKSTON OCT. 12-13. Agenda items include discussion of the U-wide Class of 2010 profile, an update on goals to increase graduation rates on each of the U campuses, and the first presentation of the 2008-09 state biennial budget request. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3339&from=umnnews and http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story364.html .

DRIVEN TO DISCOVER: Do you have a question--or an answer? Ask your "single greatest question" on the U's Driven to Discover Web site. Then browse (and rate!) the nearly 400 questions others have asked so far. If you are or know a U expert who can answer any of the questions, contact Jessica Mooney at [email protected] . Read more at http://www.discover.umn.edu .

OCTOBER IS NATIONAL WORK AND FAMILY MONTH. The U's WorkLife Program is offering an eldercare series U-wide, including "Frustration, Guilt, and Rewards" (Oct. 18). UMTC WorkLife programs this month are "On the Home Front--Parenting Those Teens!" (Oct. 17) and "Buying a House," first in a series of three sessions on living close to campus (Oct. 24). For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/worklife/seminars.html .

STUDY ABROAD CURRICULUM INTEGRATION WORKSHOP FOR FACULTY AND ADVISERS: The Learning Abroad Center provides an introductory session on education abroad and how it fits into the academic programs of students in your department or unit. Faculty and advisers from all U campuses are invited to attend. Lunch is included. Oct. 27, 12:30-4 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC. Register by Oct. 13; contact [email protected] or 612-625-8829. For more information, see http://www.umabroad.umn.edu/ci/resources/activities.html .

FACULTY SUMMER RESEARCH AND McKNIGHT SUMMER FELLOWSHIPS FOR THE ARTS AND HUMANITIES: The summer 2007 application deadline is Nov. 6. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/faculty-staff/funding/dean/fsr .

THE CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE IN CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH annual workshop series, Lessons From the Field, bridges research and practice and features national and international speakers, panels, and audience discussion. In 2006-07, the focus is attachment. The first workshop is "What is Attachment Theory...Really?" with key presenter Martha Farrell Erickson, Oct. 18, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Upcoming topics: "Infant-Parent Relationships: Promotive Interventions"(Feb. 5) and "Inter- relationship Between Attachment and Other Mental Health Concerns" (Mar. 29). Primary location is the McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC; more than 20 live video broadcast host sites include UMC, UMR, and Duluth. For more information, see http://cmh.umn.edu/events/lessonsfromthefield.html .

INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS: Professor Jim Perry has resigned as interim associate VP for international programs and will return to his faculty position in fisheries, wildlife, and conservation biology. Senior VP Jones will make an appointment to fill the position as soon as possible, and an international search for the permanent position will be launched within the next few months.

Crookston:

A CAMPUS STRATEGIC POSITIONING FORUM with faculty, staff, students, and U-wide leaders will be held today, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Kiehle Auditorium. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/events .

DEDICATION OF CENTENNIAL HALL, the new UMC residence hall, will be attended by President Bruininks and members of the Board of Regents. Oct. 12; tours begin at 9 a.m.; ceremony at 11 a.m. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story366.html .

ACCLAIMED CONCERT GUITARIST, mezzo-soprano, and lecturer Anna Maria Cardinalli Padilla will perform as part of Hispanic Heritage Month festivities. Oct. 12, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Northern Lights Lounge, Student Center. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story361.html .

Duluth:

ONE BILLION CUSTOMERS: Lessons From the Front Lines of Doing Business in China author James McGregor will speak at an event sponsored by the Labovitz School of Business and Economics. Free and open to the public. Oct. 12, 11 a.m., fourth floor rotunda, UMD Library. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/unirel/homepage/06/jmcg.html .

VIDEO ARTIST, SCULPTOR, AND PHOTOGRAPHER Paul Pfeiffer, a pioneer in exploring the role that mass media plays in shaping consciousness, will speak in the Art + Design Lecture Series, sponsored by the Department of Art and Design. Oct. 17, 6 p.m., Tweed Museum of Art. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/tma .

Morris:

2006 BARBER LECTURE will be "Philology in a New Key: Humane Studies in Digital Space," by Jerome McGann, John Stewart Bryan University Professor, U of Virginia. McGann is a pioneer in using new technologies to develop models of textual scholarship and critical practice. Oct. 12, 7:30 p.m., 109 Imholte Hall. A reception will follow. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1453 .

SMALL TOWN FACULTY AND STUDENT FELLOWS PROGRAM provides a three-year grant of $202,109 to connect communities with UMM in order to enhance regional community development activities across western Minnesota. Coordinated by the Center for Small Towns through a partnership of UMM and the Otto Bremer Foundation. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1144 .

DATE CHANGE: SCIENTISTS ON THE SPOT for Science Buzz, hosted by the Science Museum of Minnesota, will feature UMM sustainability coordinator Troy Goodnough and West Central Research and Outreach Center director Greg Cuomo, Oct. 20-Dec. 21. For more information, see http://www.smm.org/buzz .

Twin Cities:

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE COMMUNITY PANELS NEED FACULTY AND STAFF SPEAKERS this fall. Panels of six-eight voices from the U, neighborhoods, and the health and legal fields are held on Saturday mornings for groups of up to 60 referred participants, all of whom have been cited with alcohol- related offenses. Volunteer for one or more sessions: Oct. 21, Nov. 4, Nov 18, Dec. 2; all 9 a.m.- noon. Contact Emily Buehler, Restorative Justice Community Action, [email protected] or 612- 341-1657.

CARE PACKAGES: Gopher Express convenience store offers affordable care packages to surprise coworkers, students, or family members. October's package is "Trick or Treat," with treats, monsters, and other Halloween characters. $19.99. To order, call 612-624-8603, ext. 2. For more information, see http://www.coffman.umn.edu/carepackages .

UNIVERSITY WOMEN OF COLOR ANNUAL WELCOME for staff, faculty, and student women of color will include an address by VP and vice provost for equity and diversity Nancy "Rusty" BarcelÓ, "One Woman's Experiences as an Ambassador for Diversity." Nov. 2, 9-10:30 a.m., A. I. Johnson Room, McNamara Alumni Center. Continental breakfast reception is followed by the program, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Register and request disability accommodations by Oct. 23: e-mail [email protected] or call 612-624-9547.

A NEW PARKING PROGRAM FOR FACULTY AND STAFF offers a maximum of 22 parking uses per year (before Sept. 30, 2007) in one of the following: 4th Street Ramp, Gortner Avenue Ramp, or West Bank Office Building Ramp ($90); or East River Road Garage ($117). For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/pts/hottopics.htm .

FORMER SIERRA LEONE WAR CRIMES TRIBUNAL PROSECUTOR Judge David Crane will speak on "Dancing With the Devil: Taking on West Africa's Warlords, Mafia, and Thugs," Oct. 12, 7:30 p.m., Humphrey Center. The Special Court for Sierra Leone is the world's first hybrid international war crimes tribunal, jointly established in 2002 by the Republic of Sierra Leone and the United Nations. Sponsored by a coalition of community and university groups, including the U, St. Thomas, and Hamline. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php? ID=3330&from=umnnews .

"LATINO SPIN: THE BATTLE OVER LATINOS' PUBLIC IMAGE," by Arlene Davila, professor of anthropology and American studies, New York U, is the next program in the American Studies in the 21st Century Colloquium Series. Oct. 16, 3:30 p.m., 402 Walter Library; reception will follow. For more information, see http://events.umn.edu/event?occurrence=397999;event=114593 .

"ON MAKING THE OTHER TALK," by Orhan Pamuk, Turkey's most prominent living novelist and award-winning author of Istanbul (2005), Snow (2002), and My Name is Red (1998), will give the fifth Arsham and Charlotte Ohanessian Lecture. Oct. 16, 7:30 p.m., Humphrey Center. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://events.tc.umn.edu/event.xml? occurrence=396280 .

MORE EVENTS include Germany's Karsten Voight on "Religion and Politics: Different Values, Different Articulations, Same Results in Europe and the United States?" (today); "The Middle East and U.S. Foreign Policy: Alternative Voices," a seven-part lecture series (today through Dec. 8); history professor Elizabeth Menon discussing her new book, Evil by Design: The Creation and Marketing of the Femme Fatale (Oct. 12); worldwide health care rights advocate Joia Mukherjee, Harvard U, at the Harvard Street Forum (Oct. 13); opening reception for the Fifth Minnesota National Print Biennial at the Nash Gallery (Oct. 13); a public concert by Peter Ostroushko and premiere of "The Northern Forest," a new episode in Minnesota: A History of the Land (Oct. 14); "Making River Connections" design workshop (Oct.14-15); "Who Let the Dogs Out? Tales of (Trans)Gene Escape," by Norman Ellstrand (Oct. 16); Liechtenstein's ambassador to the United States on the current reformation of United Nations human rights mechanisms (Oct. 16) and multilateral cooperation (Oct. 17); coroner Janis Amatuzio discussing her new book, Beyond Knowing: Mysteries and Messages of Death and Life From a Forensic Pathologist (Oct. 17); and the inaugural Vernon W. Ruttan Lecture on Science and Development Policy, "Institutions and Economic Growth," by Richard Nelson, Columbia U (Oct. 18). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (10-18-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_10182006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 34; Oct. 18, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Class of 2010 is best prepared in history; new graduation rate goals announced. --Proposed biennial state budget request focuses on competitiveness and strategic investments. --10,000 Steps fall wellness campaign provides an eight-week program to become more active. --People: UMC Torch and Shield recipients to be honored Oct. 25; Glamour names UMTC student among top ten college women.

Transforming the U --Technology and collaboration to advance UMC vision. --Transformational Leadership Program heads north: UMD group completes first week of training.

THE PROFILE OF U CAMPUSES' CLASS OF 2010 IS THE BEST EVER and the most diverse, Senior VP and Provost Tom Sullivan reported to the Board of Regents Oct. 13. Total U-wide enrollment is 65,753. Sullivan also announced new campus graduation rate goals for cohorts graduating in 2012 and later: goals for UMM and UMTC are highest, aiming for 60 percent graduating in four years, 75 percent in five years, and 80 percent in six years. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Class_of_2010_shows_great_promise.html .

THE PROPOSED 2008-09 STATE BUDGET REQUEST, presented to the regents Oct. 13, makes strategic investments to address Minnesota's economic needs and help the U become one of the top three public research universities in the world. The $192.3 million investment plan asks for $123.4 million in state support, provides $23 million through internal reallocations, and generates the remaining $45.9 million through a 4.5 percent tuition increase for each of the next two years. The board will take action on the budget at its next meeting, Nov. 9-10. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3365&from=umnnews .

WALK FOR GOOD HEALTH: Americans walk an average 3,000 to 5,000 steps a day. By increasing to 10,000 steps, you can get the 30 minutes of moderate physical activity recommended for general health. This fall, U employees statewide can enroll in the eight-week 10,000 Steps program to develop a simple, sustainable activity level tailored to personal needs. More than 2,200 have signed up already. If you're in the Twin Cities, accumulate steps in the 5,000-meter Jack's Run, Oct. 21, 11 a.m., Les Bolstad Golf Course. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_of_Human_Resources/Walk_for_wellness.html .

PEOPLE: UMC Torch and Shield Award will be presented to Marv Bachmeier, Alan Dexter, William Hunt, and Linda Kingery Oct. 25; honors student Rebecca Mitchell is one of Glamour magazine's top 10 college women. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

ONLINE DEGREE PROGRAMS, international partnerships, innovation, and leadership development could define the next stage in the evolution of the University of Minnesota, Crookston. University leaders participated in a forum on transforming the U at UMC Oct. 11. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Technology_and_collaboration_advance_UMC_vision.html

TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM (TLP) HEADS NORTH: This month, 23 UMD employees began a training program to improve processes from admissions to facilities management. The program helps participants to see their work from the perspective of those served. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_of_Service_and_Continuous_Improvement/ TLP_heads_north.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

UMD WILL HOST A FREE, FULL-DAY SYMPOSIUM ON SOCIAL JUSTICE. Participants from all campuses are welcome. "Unraveling the Knot of Privilege, Power, and Difference" will feature author Allan Johnson, VP for equity and access Nancy "Rusty" BarcelÓ, Duluth mayor Herb Bergson, breakout session workshops, and a screening and discussion of locally produced Bringing the Truth to Light. Oct. 30, ballroom, Kirby Student Center, UMD. The Department of Social Work offers CEU credits for attending. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/umdoeo/diversity .

CLASSES WILL BE HELD ON ELECTION NIGHT, NOV. 7. Instructors are expected to make reasonable accommodations for students who can vote only during that time. Read more in the October issue of The Record, which is now online, http://www.onestop.umn.edu/onestop/U_Resources/News2C_Events2C_and_Activities/The_Record/ Record_200610.html .

A NEW BLOG, "SMART POLITICS," launched by the Center for the Study of Politics as part of the 2006 Elections Project, is written and maintained daily by center director Larry Jacobs and researcher Eric Ostermeier. For more information, see http://blog.lib.umn.edu/oster017/smartpolitics .

U OF M BREAKTHROUGHS IN RENEWABLE ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT will be the focus of the third annual Initiative for Renewable Energy and the Environment (IREE) research symposium. The half-day event is an opportunity for faculty and researchers to showcase groundbreaking work. Keynote speakers will be Doug Cameron, chief scientific officer for Khosla Ventures, and Don Shelby, WCCO news anchor. Nov. 28, McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC. Free and open to the public; register online. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/iree/events.html .

NEW POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM is a U-wide, multidisciplinary effort to recruit promising scholars with strong potential to pursue future faculty positions, advancing the U's intellectual agenda and enhancing the cultural diversity of the U community. Up to three fellowships for at least one year will be awarded to begin in September 2007. Nominations will be accepted through Nov. 1, 2006; application deadline is Dec. 1. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/postdocfellowship .

SCARECROWS ON PARADE and apple tastings (through Oct. 31) and weekend family programs are among fall activities at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Goodbye_crows2C_hello_fall.html .

U OF M MOMENT radio spots with U experts this week will feature campaign signs and the persuasive power of color; the Minnesota Language Services Initiative; and the Immigration History Research Center's Web site as Encyclopedia Britannica's iGuide. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3363&from=umnnews . Archives available at http://blog.lib.umn.edu/urelate/radio .

Crookston:

ENROLLMENT AT UMC IS UP, with 379 new freshmen and transfers this year compared with 312 last year. Online credit hours are also on the rise, up 10 percent over last year, Chancellor Casey reported to the regents Oct. 13. Read more at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story374.html .

"ECOLOGY OF THE ASPEN PARKLAND: LIFE AT THE EDGE," a conference on ecotourism, will feature premier wildlife photographer Jim Brandenburg. Aspen parkland--the landscape of northwestern Minnesota and southern Manitoba--includes a mix of aspen groves, tallgrass prairie, wetlands, and wooded rivers and streams; its wildlife includes timber wolf, elk, white-tailed deer, black bear, sandhill cranes, and sharp-tailed grouse. Northwestern Minnesota is unique in North America for the intersection of three continental biomes: tallgrass prairie, deciduous forest, and the boreal component of coniferous forest. Oct. 23-24, UMC. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story367.html .

Duluth:

THE YING QUARTET, an award-winning sibling string ensemble, will perform as part of the 2006-07 Ovation Guest Artist Series. Today, 7:30 p.m., Weber Music Hall. All seats are reserved; advance purchase is recommended. For more information, call 218-726-8877 and see http://www.d.umn.edu/music/events/ovation/ying.html .

CRAZY FOR YOU, a high-energy comedy with music by George and Ira Gershwin, opens this week. Oct. 19-22 and 25-28, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 22, 2 p.m.; Marshall Performing Arts Center. For tickets, call 218-726-8561. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/theatre/currentseason.html .

"CONSTITUTION MAKING AND CONSTITUTION KEEPING: BOTSWANA," by Alworth International Institute director William Henderson, will explore 40 years of Botswana's independence. Oct. 24, 7 p.m., fourth floor rotunda, UMD Library. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/alworth/main .

Morris:

TODAY UMM IS TRYING TO BREAK A RECORD FOR THE LARGEST FOOD DRIVE by a non-charitable organization in a 24-hour period, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. The campus community is invited to bring nonperishable foods, noon-11:59 p.m. Students will also "trick-or- can" for food throughout Morris, Oct. 18, 5:30-7:30 p.m. All collected food will benefit the Stevens County food shelf. Read more at http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1578 .

THE FIRST ANNUAL NORTHLAND BIONEERS CONFERENCE will feature UMM as a sponsor, partner, and interactive-workshop presenter. The "earth-honoring conference" is hosted by Northland Sustainable Solutions. Oct. 20-22, Minneapolis Community and Technical College. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1572 .

Rochester:

HOMECOMING BENEFIT FOR SCHOLARSHIPS: Leo Lewis, former Minnesota Viking and current U of M associate athletics director for student-athlete development, will talk about what the U is doing to improve athletes' graduation rates. Proceeds will benefit Rochester Area Alumni and Friends of the U of M scholarships. Nov. 1, 6 p.m. social, 7 p.m. dinner, Heintz Center, University Center Rochester. Register by Oct. 28. For more information, see http://www.alumni.umn.edu/HomecomingLewis06.html .

Twin Cities:

NATIONAL SECURITY EDUCATION PROGRAM (NSEP) information session for interested students will be given by a representative from the Institute of International Education, New York. NSEP fellowships for graduate students ($12,000-$30,000) and scholarships for undergraduates ($8,000- $20,000) support international study in areas critical to U.S. interests. Today, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., 110 Heller Hall. For more information, see http://events.umn.edu/event? occurrence=398168;event=114707 .

BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY has a new documentary film unit, Bell Productions, developed by producing Minnesota: A History of the Land (2005). Upcoming projects will focus on Minnesota's prairie wetlands, Lake Superior, and the Mississippi River. "The Northern Forest" debuts on public television stations statewide tonight, 7 p.m. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Of_fire2C_felling_and_selling3A_Northern_forests_t.html .

TRAINING FOR GLOBAL UNDERSTANDING workshops coming up include "Hmong Funeral: A Key to Hmong Culture" (Oct. 25, 9-11 a.m., 402 Walter Library); "South Asian Community Seminar" (Oct. 31, 9:30-11:30 a.m., R385 VoTech); and "Communicating Across Cultures" (Nov. 28, 2-4 p.m., 110 Heller Hall). To register, see http://www.isss.umn.edu and choose "Register for Training for Global Understanding."

FALL 2006 MINI-MEDICAL SCHOOL: THIS ALL NEW, CANCER-FOCUSED four-class series is taught by leading faculty members and is designed to educate and update Minnesotans on health-related issues. Monday nights, Nov. 6-27, 6-8:30 p.m., Coffman Theater. $60. For more information, see http://www.ahc.umn.edu/minimed .

"SCRUBS, GLOVES, AND MICROSCOPES: A HANDS-ON EXPLORATION OF HEALTH CAREERS" for high school students in grades 9-12 will feature clinical lab science (Oct. 25), veterinary medicine (Nov. 16), and physical therapy (Jan. 26). Students will meet health care professionals and students and learn about the U, health careers, and necessary academic background to get into professional programs. For more information, see http://www.healthcareers.umn.edu/hcc/highschool/SGM.html .

HEALTH SCIENCES LIBRARIES FALL OPEN HOUSE: Meet staff, sign up for library classes, test drive library resources, and find out how the libraries can help with your information needs. Refreshments, giveaways, and prizes. Oct. 24, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Diehl Hall. For more information, see http://events.umn.edu/event?event=113934 .

"THE LAW OF WAR AND ITS PATHOLOGIES," by George Fletcher, Columbia U, will be the John Dewey Lecture in the Philosophy of Law. Oct. 24, 12:15 p.m., Lockhart Hall (Room 25), Mondale Hall. Register at [email protected] or 612-625-4544. See also http://www.law.umn.edu .

"'THE SOLITUDE OF SELF': WOMEN'S RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS," a retrospective on the life and speeches of first-wave feminist Elizabeth Cady Stanton, will be presented by Karlyn Kohrs Campbell, professor of communication studies, as the Fall 2006 Ada Comstock Distinguished Women Scholars Lecture. Oct. 25, 7:30 p.m., Cowles Auditorium, Humphrey Center. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/women .

MORE EVENTS include "Narrating Partition" in the South Asia Seminar Series (Oct. 18); "Partnership Networks and the Spread of HIV: Lessons From Uganda, Thailand, and the United States," by Martina Morris, U of Washington (Oct. 19); Young & Rubicam CEO Ann Fudge in the Carlson School's Inside the Boardroom series (Oct. 20); Collage Concert, the School of Music's annual ensemble extravaganza (Oct. 21); Chamber Music Society of Minnesota's first concert of the season, featuring Arnold Steinhardt performing with U faculty and staff (Oct. 22); "Beef on Steroids" seminar (Oct. 23); The Onion editor-in-chief Scott Dikkers discussing his new book, Destined for Destiny (Oct. 24); and local author Brandon Sigrist reading from his award-winning story in L. Ron Hubbard's Writers of the Future, Vol. XXII (Oct. 25). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (10-25-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_10252006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 35; Oct. 25, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--President Bruininks and Regent Baraga toured north central Minnesota Oct. 19-20. --Public engagement spotlight: Northside Food Project is mapping the way to food security. --Civil Service Committee: what you can do with professional development funds. --Living close to the U: Neighborhoods next to UMTC want to be "home" to faculty members and graduate students. --People: Associate VP for research is Frances Lawrenz; five new members inducted in UMD Academy of Science and Engineering; Benedicta Chiwokwu Agusiobo of Nigeria received the U's 2006 Distinguished Leadership Award for Internationals.

Transforming the U --Allen Levine has been named dean of the new College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, pending regents' approval.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

PRESIDENT BRUININKS AND REGENT BARAGA VISITED GRAND RAPIDS Oct. 19-20. They attended a luncheon by the chamber of commerce and a reception for alumni and community leaders, and they also toured the North Central Research and Outreach Center and the Extension Service Regional Center. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Bruininks_tours_north_central_Minnesota.html .

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT: The Department of Rhetoric's Bernadette Longo is tackling food security and its social implications through the Northside Food Project. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_for_Public_Engagement/ Mapping_the_way_to_food_security.html .

CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE: Each year, the CSC has $2,000 available to support civil service staff members' professional development needs. Would attending a conference, symposium, or class give you a shot of energy or an intellectual boost in your job? Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Civil_Service_Committee/A_way_to_grow.html .

LIVING CLOSE TO THE U: Patty Franklin walks her commute to work at UMTC, and she treasures every minute of it. If you think you might be moving or even buying a house, neighborhoods next to the Twin Cities campus in Minneapolis and St. Paul want you. There's still time to take a survey of your opinions on living close to the U. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Loving_the_commute.html .

PEOPLE: Frances Lawrenz is the new associate VP for research; UMD inducted five new members into its Academy of Science and Engineering, professors Edward Bersu, Howard Levine, Glenn Morey, Gerald Ostroski, and Charles Taylor; Helene Muller-Landau has won a Packard Fellowship to study rainforest biodiversity; and Benedicta Chiwokwu Agusiobo of Nigeria returned to UMTC to receive a 2006 Distinguished Leadership Award for Internationals. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

THE DEAN OF THE NEW COLLEGE OF FOOD, AGRICULTURAL, AND NATURAL RESOURCE SCIENCES will be Allen Levine, professor and head, Department of Food Science and Nutrition, and director, Minnesota Obesity Center. His appointment follows an extensive national search and will begin Nov. 13 upon approval by the regents. Levine joined the faculty in 1981; holds joint appointments in the departments of surgery, psychiatry, and medicine; and was deputy associate chief of staff for research at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Minneapolis for more than 17 years. He talked Monday about the new college and his work. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Levine_named_CFANS_dean.html

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

RESEARCH REVIEW COMMITTEES HONORED; NEW MEMBERS SOUGHT. The Office of the VP for Research hosted a special event this month to honor the work of the U's 13 research review committees for the first time. The committees are made up of diverse and devoted volunteers from colleges across the five campuses as well as community members. They ensure principled research, safeguard proper use of human and animal subjects, and uphold standards mandated by federal and state agencies and the Board of Regents. Interested members of the U community are invited to join a committee. Read more at http://www.research.umn.edu/communications/news/review_committees.html .

BENEFITS OPEN ENROLLMENT BEGINS NOV. 1: The annual opportunity to review your health benefits and make changes runs through November. This year, you can switch medical and dental plans if you wish. It's also the time to elect a flexible spending account for 2007. Medical and dental plan rates, plan changes, and other enrollment news will be posted soon. Employee Benefits Fairs will be held at UMD (Nov. 2) and UMTC (Nov. 8 in St. Paul, Nov. 9 in Minneapolis). The fairs provide an opportunity to talk with experts about your benefits, get valuable information on wellness and healthy lifestyles, and get a free flu shot. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits .

CALL FOR PROPOSALS: RESEARCH ON "TIME": Time is the topic of the U Symposium for the two- year period beginning this fall. The Institute for Advanced Study and the Office of the VP for Research invite proposals for collaborative, interdisciplinary research projects; $200,000 is available, and about 12 awards will be made for release time or salary support, summer stipends, research travel, student support, equipment purchase, books, and visits of scholars whose work is central to the collaboration. For more information, see http://www.research.umn.edu/opportunities/intramural .

TECH TALK, the U of M TV show about the digital technology encountered in everyday lives, returns for a fifth season Oct. 29. Topics include digital TV, e-government, new online social networks, and more. Watch TPT--in the Twin Cities, channel 17, Sundays, 9-9:30 p.m.--or see episodes online or subscribe to the podcast. For more information, see http://techtalk.umn.edu .

NEW EXTENSION MAGAZINE, SOURCE, highlights the U of M Extension Service's impact on critical issues in Minnesota, in three issues per year. For more information, see http://www.extension.umn.edu/source .

UMTC WILL HOST THE FIRST STATEWIDE CONFERENCE of the Minnesota Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, and Ally (GLBTA) Campus Alliance Nov. 3-4. Highlights include a dinner, dance, and reception; keynotes by state legislators and transgender health educator Samuel Lurie; more than 15 workshops; a resource fair; and networking with GLBTA campus community members from across the state. For more information, see http://www.mnglbta.org/mocc and http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3354&from=umnnews .

U OF M MOMENT radio spots with U experts this week will feature bathrooms of the Twin Cities (today), risks of home equity loans (Oct. 26), and Halloween safety tips (Oct. 27). For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3384&from=umnnews . Archives available at http://blog.lib.umn.edu/urelate/radio .

Crookston:

A DELEGATION OF FACULTY AND STAFF WILL TRAVEL TO KOREA AND CHINA this week to strengthen ties with educational partners, attract students, and seek more opportunities for the Crookston region. The group will arrive in Korea Oct. 26 and in China Oct. 31. Read more at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story379.html .

Duluth:

"SUPERNOVA EARLY WARNING SYSTEM," Alec Habig, associate professor of physics and operations manager for the MINOS neutrino detector, will explain the system and the part played by the neutrino detector at the Tower-Soudan mine. Oct. 30, 11:30 a.m., UMD Rafters. Presented by University for Seniors; free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/physics and http://www.d.umn.edu/calendar .

Morris:

RESIDENCE HALL TO HONOR FORMER CHANCELLOR DAVID JOHNSON: When David Johnson became UMM's third chancellor in 1990, his first home in Morris was a room in a student residence, Independence Hall. To honor the bond forged with students during his quarter in the hall, it will be renamed David C. Johnson Independence Hall at a public ceremony. Oct. 28, 11:15 a.m., Indy/Gay Lake area behind the hall; in case of rain, in the hall's main lounge. Read more at http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1609 .

Twin Cities:

COMMUNITY FUND DRIVE UPDATE: Thanks to every person who has taken part in the drive already. So far, more than 17 percent of faculty and staff have chosen to contribute, raising $674,313--more than half the amount toward the goal of $1.2 million. Each gift, whether one time or designated from every paycheck, makes a difference for the Minnesota charities serving the community. There's still time to give to the Community Fund Drive. You can give online at http://www.umn.edu/cfd .

U LIBRARIES WILL CELEBRATE THE ACQUISITION OF U.S. POET ROBERT BLY'S ARCHIVE with a public reading sponsored by Friends of the U Libraries. Garrison Keillor will introduce Bly at the event. Oct. 26, 7:30 p.m., Willey Hall Auditorium. Reserve $10 tickets by calling 612-624-9339. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3381&from=umnnews .

"TRANSGENDER ISSUES IN COLLEGE HEALTH," an interactive, skills-oriented workshop by national transgender health educator Samuel Lurie, will focus on four steps to provide good care. Lurie has trained more than 10,000 people in 25 states since 1998. Nov. 3, 12:30-2 p.m., 2-520 Moos Tower. Free and open to the public. For more information, contact Ross at [email protected] or 612-626- 3064.

"HOW HARD CAN IT BE?" by mathematics professor Margaret Wright, New York U, will be the next Institute for Mathematics and Its Applications public lecture. Some problems in life are very hard (achieving world peace), and others are pretty easy for many (eating a good breakfast). Get a look at both kinds, the sources of hardness, and puzzling instances where problems are easier than math says they should be. Nov. 2, 7 p.m., 125 Willey Hall. For more information, see http://www.ima.umn.edu/2006-2007/PUB11.2.06 .

"THE SOCIAL WEB," by computer science and engineering professor John Riedl, will be the next topic of Headliners, a new monthly program to connect faculty experts with the public to discuss timely topics. Nov. 2, 7 p.m., Continuing Education and Conference Center, St. Paul. $10 per event. To register, see http://www.cce.umn.edu/enrichment/headliners .

AUDIO FROM THE FIRST "HEADLINERS" DISCUSSION, with faculty expert Michael Barnett on the Israel-Lebanon conflict, is posted online at http://www.cce.umn.edu/enrichment/headliners/listen.html .

DOCULENS ASIA, a film series and symposium hosted by the interdisciplinary Asian Film Collective of the Institute for Advanced Study, will feature major documentary films and filmmakers from Taiwan, China, India, and Japan, with panel discussions on filmmaking trends and the global context. Nov. 2-4, 155 Nicholson Hall, Walker Art Center, and Oak Street Cinema. For more information, see http://www.doculensasia.umn.edu .

AFFORDABLE MEAL PLANS are available for faculty and staff in five on-campus residential dining locations. Options include expanded vegetarian menus and fresh entrees, salads, and deli bars. Sign up for 25-150 meals per semester. In addition, Flexdine value is available in increments as low as $25. For more information, see http://umn.edu/dining or http://umn.mealplansonline.com .

USE YOUR U CARD TO SAVE on entertainment in the Twin Cities, from Halloween haunts to tickets to Timberwolves games (discounted Timberwolves tickets must be purchased by Nov. 1). For more information, see http://www.coffman.umn.edu/info/explore.php and http://www.coffman.umn.edu/info/seasonal.php .

HOMECOMING, "Wild, Wild Midwest," is Oct. 30-Nov. 4. For more information, see http://www.sao.umn.edu/events/homecoming .

DAWN OF A DREAM 2006 benefit for the Children's Cancer Research Fund will be "Journey to the Ends of the Earth." Tickets are on sale now. Nov. 4, Historic Depot, downtown Minneapolis. For more information, see http://www.childrenscancer.org/DawnofaDream .

MORE EVENTS include "'The Solitude of Self': Women's Rights Are Human Rights," a lecture on Elizabeth Cady Stanton by Karlyn Kohrs Campbell, communication studies (today); "Democratic Gains in the 2006 Congressional Elections?" by Gary Jacobson, U of California, San Diego, and other experts (Oct. 26); "Hope in a Time of Despair," a celebration of Amnesty International's 30th anniversary, with U professors Barbara Frey, Steven Miles, and David Weissbrodt (Oct. 27); "So What Did They Wear? Clothing 600-1600 in Western Europe" (Oct. 28); faculty piano recital by Paul Shaw to celebrate Mozart's 250th birthday (Oct. 29); and "Authenticity: The New Consumer Sensibility," by B. Joseph Pine II, cofounder of Strategic Horizons, at the Carlson School's Brand Matters speakers forum (Oct. 31). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to Gayla Marty, editor, at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (11-01-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_11012006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 36; Nov. 1, 2006

Editor: Gayla Marty, 612-625-0552, [email protected]

EDITOR'S NOTE: Pauline Oo will edit Brief while Gayla Marty is away, Nov. 3-Dec. 15. Send inquiries and submissions to [email protected] .

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--UMC is first U campus to receive blanket accreditation for expansion of online degrees. --Health benefits open enrollment: Two Employee Benefits employees talk about their own selection processes. --Alumni survey results, announced this week, show a strong U impact. --People: Meredith McQuaid named interim associate VP for international programs, Sally Dischinger named interim director of Northrop Auditorium, and more.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

UMC IS THE FIRST U CAMPUS to receive blanket accreditation for expansion of online degrees. UMC officially secured continued accreditation last week for the maximum 10-year period, along with approval for moving ahead with more online degrees. In addition to the bachelor of applied health, delivered online since the mid-1990s, two more degree programs can now accept enrollment for spring 2007, one in business and the other in manufacturing management. More degrees can be offered online with Board of Regents approval. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Crookston_continues_online_leadership.html .

HEALTH BENEFITS OPEN ENROLLMENT BEGINS TODAY: Two staff members in Employee Benefits share their own processes for weighing the options and making choices by the Nov. 30 deadline. Learn more about flexible spending accounts (if you want one for 2007, you must request it), how other medical and dental plans compare, and dropping an ineligible dependent without penalty. Attend an Employee Benefits Fair at UMD (Nov. 2) or UMTC (Nov. 8, St. Paul; Nov. 9, Minneapolis). Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_of_Human_Resources/The_key_word_is_choice.html .

ALUMNI SURVEY RESULTS, announced this week, show the breadth of U alumni impact. Results are based on responses from about 75,000 alumni of all the U campuses. They reported founding 19,000 companies worldwide that employ 1.1 million people. More then 75 percent do volunteer work and 37 percent have led charity organizations. The results of Connecting With Our Alumni, conducted from January to May this year, were combined with results of alumni surveys conducted by UMTC's Carlson School of Management (2005) and Institute of Technology (2004). Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Homecoming_time_to_celebrate_alumni.html .

PEOPLE: Law School associate dean Meredith McQuaid has been named interim associate VP for international programs; Northrop Auditorium's interim director is Sally Dischinger; UMC's Delta Theta Sigma chapter has won a philanthropy award for the third consecutive year. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

SPRING TEACHING AND LEARNING CONFERENCE will be April 23, 2007. Conference proposals are due Jan. 29. The annual conference is sponsored by the U's Academy of Distinguished Teachers and UMTC's Center for Teaching and Learning and Digital Media Center, with support from the Bush Foundation. See the call for proposals at http://www.adt.umn.edu/conference07 . For more information, contact Karen Zentner Bacig, [email protected] or 612-624-5082.

2006 ELECTIONS PROJECT Web site now has candidate profiles for 28 Upper Midwest races for governor and the U.S. Congress, as well as the project's Upper Midwest Public Opinion Archive. Sponsored by the Center for the Study of Politics and Governance, UMTC. For more information, see http://www.hhh.umn.edu/centers/cspg/elections_projects.html .

SUPERCOMPUTING INSTITUTE RESEARCH PROGRAMS FOR 2006-07 are now posted, including resources, facilities, grants, and technical support. Some have application deadlines. For more information, see http://www.msi.umn.edu or contact [email protected] or 612-625-0012.

HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS AT THE MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM include forcing bulbs, winter containers, centerpieces, wreaths, ikebana holiday arrangements, and lavender. Dates begin Nov. 4. For more information, see http://www.arboretum.umn.edu .

U OF M MOMENT radio spots with U experts this week will feature the Day of the Dead; the next Headliners topic, humanity's social web; and health care politics. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3404&from=umnnews . Archives available at http://blog.lib.umn.edu/urelate/radio .

Crookston:

DELTA THETA SIGMA awarded its UMC chapter the fraternity's philanthropy award for most community service projects and hours for the third consecutive year--68 percent of chapter members participated in projects. Read more at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story380.html .

Duluth:

LONG-TIME DULUTH ENTREPRENEUR AND CIVIL LEADER Manley Goldfine will talk about his 70 years in business at the seventh annual Professor for a Day event, sponsored by the Labovitz School of Business and Economics. Manley recently retired as CEO of ZMC hotels. Today, 10 a.m., Weber Music Hall, preceded by refreshments beginning at 9:30 a.m. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/October/26.html .

FOUR STAR GENERAL Bruce Carlson, '71, currently serving as key adviser to the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Washington, D.C., will speak to Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets, faculty, and staff members on campus, Nov. 2-3. Carlson is a Distinguished Graduate of the UMD Air Force ROTC and will receive the UMD Distinguished Alumni Award at a dinner in his honor. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/November/01.html .

Morris:

THE CENTER FOR SMALL TOWNS at UMM and the city of Morris won the 2006 Carter Partnership Award for Campus-Community Collaboration. The award was presented by former Sen. John Glenn Oct. 30 in St. Paul. The award, named for the former president and Rosalynn Carter, honors exemplary collaborations, undertaken by a college or university in partnership with a community group, that address critical areas of public need. The center was cited for sustained cooperation of many community projects over an extended period. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1647 .

Twin Cities:

TECHNOLOGY COMMERCIALIZATION SEMINAR SERIES FOR GRAD STUDENTS IN SCIENCE and technology-related colleges: The next seminar will be "Legal Issues Involved in Protecting Your Intellectual Property." Nov. 13, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Carlson School of Management (CSOM). Register at [email protected] . The series of five seminars, sponsored by 3M and offered through the CSOM's Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, runs through April. For more information, see http://www.csom.umn.edu/Page1248.aspx or contact Sharon Hansen, [email protected] or 612-624-0226.

HOMECOMING will include a barn dance, with square-dance lessons and food drive, Friday night, Animal Arena; a parade on University Avenue S.E. with baseball Hall of Fame member Paul Molitor as marshal, Saturday morning; and football versus Indiana at the Metrodome, 11 a.m. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3405&from=umnnews .

NATIONAL EXPERTS WILL TALK ABOUT IMMIGRATION FACTS AND MYTHS at a campus conference sponsored by several offices and departments. Today, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Humphrey Center. See the conference agenda and more information at http://www.hhh.umn.edu/centers/cspg/upcoming_events/immigration.html .

"THE SOCIAL WEB," by computer science and engineering professor John Riedl, will be the next topic of Headliners, a new monthly program to connect faculty experts with the public to discuss timely topics. Nov. 2, 7 p.m., Continuing Education and Conference Center, St. Paul. $10. To register, see http://www.cce.umn.edu/enrichment/headliners .

THE BLACKWELL-TAPIA CONFERENCE, the premier national event for underrepresented mathematical sciences researchers, will be hosted by the Institute for Mathematics and Its Applications, Nov. 3-4, Lind Hall and Electrical Science/Computer Science. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3382&from=umnnews .

"SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE," by Richard Wright, former director, Building and Fire Research Laboratory, U.S. Department of Commerce, will be the 21st Katherine and Arthur Sehlin Lecture, hosted by the Department of Civil Engineering. Nov. 8, 3:30-4:30 p.m., 210 Civil Engineering Building. A department open house will follow, 4:30-6 p.m. For more information about the department, see http://www.ce.umn.edu .

"MUSLIMS AND THE WEST IN THE AGE OF GLOBALIZATION" will be presented by Ahmed Samatar, James Wallace Professor and dean, Institute for Global Citizenship, Macalester College. Nov. 9, 12:15 p.m., Presidents Room, Coffman Union. Free and open to the public; pizza will be served. Sponsored by the Tocqueville Center for the Study of Liberty and Free Institutions. For more information, contact Jed Ipson, [email protected] .

THE U'S PROGRESS IN NANOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH will be the focus of two workshops. The Northern Nano Workshop, hosted by the U and the Canadian government, will address topics including devices, sensors, and energy applications. Nov. 9, Radisson University Hotel. The Biomedical Nanotechnology Workshop will focus on applications, issues, and impact in medicine, therapy, and biological sciences. Free, but registration is required by contacting Becky Von Dissen, [email protected] , or Tricia Conway, [email protected] . For more information, see http://www.nano.umn.edu/northernnano and http://www.nano.umn.edu/nanobio/biomed.jsp .

"SCIENCE AND POLITICS IN ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY MAKING: CAN THIS MARRIAGE BE SAVED?" presented by Holly Doremus, U of California, Davis, will be the second in the 2006-07 Lunch Series on the Societal Implications of the Life Sciences. Nov. 14, 12:15-1:30 p.m., Coffman Theater. Free and open to the public. To reserve a box lunch, register no later than Nov. 10 to [email protected] or 612-625-0055. For more information, see http://www.lifesci.consortium.umn.edu/news_and_events .

A WILDERNESS WORTH SAVING, landscape photography of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge by Jeff Jones, is a unique collaboration between a long-standing environmental organization and a photographer. Nov. 4-Dec. 3, Bell Museum of Natural History. Events will include "Go North! With the Polar Huskies--Adventure Learning in the Circumpolar Arctic" (Nov. 11), "Last Great Wilderness: The Campaign to Establish the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge," by author and pilot Roger Kaye (Nov. 15), and a public reception (Nov. 18). For more information, see http://www.bellmuseum.org .

MORE EVENTS include "A Riverfront Development Story," by Judith Martin, geography (Nov. 1); "Art and War" with Camille Gage, John Kinder, and Colleen Sheehy (Nov. 2); "The Art of Design," on fashion, textile, and architectural design in the U Libraries collections (Nov. 3); "Dawn of a Dream" 2006 benefit for the Children's Cancer Research Fund (Nov. 4); an evening of medieval music (Nov. 5); "Crossover Voting in African American Senate Elections," a talk by Hanes Walton, Jr. (Nov. 6); Regents Professor of English Patricia Hampl reading from her new book, Blue Arabesque (Nov. 7); and post-election analysis with Vin Weber and R. T. Rybak (Nov. 8). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to the editor at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief(11-08-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_11082006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 37; Nov. 8, 2006

Editor: [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

INSIDE THIS ISSUE --UMM honored for campus-community collaboration. --Regents Nov. 9-10 meeting preview. --Lucky 13th anniversary for Motorist Assistance Program. --Council of Academic Professionals and Administrators: classification and compensation study. --Public engagement spotlight: DWI task force implements change beyond the University. --People: Mike Kilgore appointed to the governor's Conservation Legacy Council.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

UMM HONORED FOR CAMPUS-COMMUNITY COLLABORATION: The Center for Small Towns on the Morris campus and the City of Morris have been named recipients of the Carter Partnership Award for Campus-Community Collaboration. The award was presented on Oct. 30 by former senator John Glenn at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/UMM_honored_for_campuscommunity_collaboration.html .

BOARD OF REGENTS Nov. 9-10 MEETING PREVIEW: Topics on the agenda include the 2007 state capital request, the 2007-09 biennial budget request, policy on employee recruitment and retention, PULSE survey on employee attitudes, public safety overview, athletics compliance program, and UMore Park report. College of Education and Human Development's Dean Bailey will be introduced. University Relations VP Thrane will be recognized. Read more at http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3365&from=umnnews .

MOTORIST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM turns 13. With winter around the corner, the U's Motorist Assistance Program will see a jump in calls. Since 1993, the program has helped more than 35,000 people with jump-starts, lock-outs, and tire services. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/ Lucky_13th_anniversary_for_the_Motorist_Assistance_Program.html .

COUNCIL OF ACADEMIC PROFESSIONALS AND ADMINISTRATORS: The U has 4,835 employees who fall under the Academic Professional and Administrative (P&A) classification. A University group is studying the classification and compensation policies for P&A staff and will provide VP Carrier with recommendations in spring 2007. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Council_of_Academic_Professionals_and_Administrators/ CAPA_encourages_involvement_in_classification_and_compensation_study.html .

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT: Minnesota's DWI legal process, including blood-alcohol testing results and vehicle plate impoundment, has undergone a number of changes thanks to Law School professor Steve Simon. He founded the Minnesota Criminal Justice System DWI Task Force, made up of criminal justice system professionals and traffic safety advocates. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_for_Public_Engagement/ DWI_Task_Force_implements_change_beyond_the_University.html .

PEOPLE: Brothers and U professors Roger and David Johnson receive 2007 Brock International Prize in Education; Mike Kilgore, associate professor of natural resources economics and policy, named to state's new Conservation Legacy Council. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

NEW FIVE-YEAR RULE FOR J VISA HOLDERS. The Department of State has released a new rule on Nov. 4 that will affect how long J Exchange Visitors (research scholar and professor categories) can be at the U and how long U departments now have to wait before they can invite a scholar on that visa back. Read more at http://www.isss.umn.edu/jscholar/5yearrule.html or call a J adviser in ISSS at 612-626-7100.

NOMINATIONS FOR DISTINGUISHED MCKNIGHT UNIVERSITY PROFESSORSHIPS are invited by the Graduate School and the Office of the Provost. The awards support the U's most outstanding mid- career faculty members who have recently achieved full-professor status. Deadline: Jan. 3, 2007. For more information and nomination instructions, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/faculty- staff/mcknight .

SEED MONEY FOR PROJECTS that address disparities among Minnesota's children, youth, and families are available through the "Disparities: Unequal Opportunities, Unequal Outcomes" program of the President's Initiative on Children, Youth, and Families and the Children, Youth, and Family Consortium. Faculty and P&A staff are encouraged to apply; applications are due Jan. 16, 2007. Awards range from $2,500 to $7,500 for up to one year. For guidelines or more information, e-mail [email protected] .

CALL FOR PROPOSALS addressing the broad societal implications of problems in health, environment, or the life sciences, from the Consortium on Law and Values in Health, Environment & the Life Sciences. Awards available for graduate and professional students; departments, programs, or centers; individual faculty; and consortium/JDP members. Proposals due February 2007. For more information and application instructions, see http://www.lifesci.consortium.umn.edu/rfps or contact 612-626-5624 or [email protected] .

2007 NEW-FACULTY ORIENTATION will be August 21-23, 2007. The three-day orientation provides faculty an opportunity to learn about U priorities and resources and to meet new colleagues and other U faculty and staff. All new faculty are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Karen Zentner Bacig, [email protected] or 612-624-5082.

U OF M MOMENT radio spots with U experts this week will feature healthful meeting foods, fall watering of trees and shrubs, and keeping kids in youth programs. For more information, see http://www.ur.umn.edu/unsreleases/find.php?ID=3420&from=umnnews . Archives available at http://blog.lib.umn.edu/urelate/radio .

Crookston:

UMC HOSTS FARRIER CLINIC Nov. 10-11. Individuals can learn about equine hoof and lower leg anatomy and physiology, hoof care and disease prevention, and common diseases and problems associated with equine hoof trimming. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story375.html .

RECLAIMING FAITH: In the Spirit of Justice is the title of a provocative outreach concert by One Voice Mixed Chorus. Nov. 10, 11 a.m., Kiehle Auditorium. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story382.html .

COLLEGIATE FFA PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE TEAM placed first in the National Parliamentary Procedure Invitational Contest this past week. The five-member all freshmen team finished eight points ahead of the University of Kentucky. Read more at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story387.html .

Duluth:

UMD COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING INDUCTS FIVE NEW MEMBERS into its Academy of Science and Engineering. Edward Bersu, Howard Levine, Glenn Morey, Gerald Ostroski, and Charles Taylor were awarded for their outstanding work in biology, mathematics, geology, and engineering. The Academy was established in 2002 to recognize alumni and special friends of UMD for their commitment, leadership, and success in their chosen profession. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/October/25.html .

CHINA AND ASIAN ECONOMIES EXPERT AND CONTROVERSIAL AUTHOR David Wall will present "China and Russia: Cooperation and Conflict." Nov. 8, 7 p.m., Library Rotunda (fourth Floor). Lecture will explore the recent economic development of China and Russia, examining the political relations between the two countries. Wall has recently published work on China's overseas investments and its open economy. The free presentation is open to the public and sponsored by the Alworth Institute as part of its International Lecture Series. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/alworth/main/intllecture.php .

MINE DRAINAGE EXPERT David Blowes will deliver a special public lecture, "Predicting, Preventing and Remediating Acidic Drainage From Sulfide Bearing Mines and Mine Wastes." Nov. 8, 4 p.m., Life Science 175. The presentation provides examples of new techniques being developed to protect water resources from contamination. UMD Department of Geological Sciences is sponsoring the lecture. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/news/2006/November/03-B.html .

Morris:

UMM JOINS NEW COMMITTEE ON RENEWABLE ENERGY. UMM will join only 25 institutions nationwide in creating a national higher education steering committee on renewable energy. Lowell Rasmussen, UMM's associate vice chancellor for physical plant and master planning, has been invited to serve as a founding member of the Higher Education Steering Committee of the American Council on Renewable Energy. Read more at http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1648 .

COUGAR FOOTBALL TEAM CAPTURES FIRST-EVER UPPER MIDWEST ATHLETIC CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP. The last conference title for the Cougar football program was the Northern Intercollegiate Conference title in 1987, the second of two straight NIC titles. Read more at http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1635 .

PRIDE OF THE PRAIRIE FARMERS' MARKET (2-4:30 p.m., Oyate Hall) and Fall Feast (4:45-7 p.m., Food Service) will offer homegrown food and local entertainment. Economist Ken Meter will present the study, "Finding Food in West Central Minnesota." Nov. 9, 4 p.m., Science Auditorium. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1649 .

Twin Cities:

2006 COMMUNITY FUND DRIVE IS STILL ACCEPTING PLEDGES. Almost one-third of Twin Cities campus faculty and staff have contributed to this year's drive. As of Nov. 7, contributions reached $1,158,969.55--nearly to goal of $1.2 million. The Community Fund Drive officially ended Oct. 31, but pledges or one-time gifts that come in now will continue to be included in this year's total. Give online at http://www.umn.edu/cfd .

2006 EMPLOYEE BENEFITS FAIR offers the chance to talk with representatives from the various health plans, wellness collaborative, and investment companies to learn about important changes in medical, life, disability, and retirement benefits for the coming year. Free flu shots are also available. Nov. 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., North Star Ballroom, St. Paul Student Center; Nov. 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Great Hall, Coffman Memorial Union. The fair is held in conjunction with open enrollment, which runs through Nov. 30. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits or call 612-624-9090.

THE CLINICAL RESEARCH MONTHLY DISTINGUISHED VISITING SCHOLARS SERIES brings an acknowledged leader in clinical research to the U for two days to lead discussions with faculty, fellows, and students, and to give a lecture in the scholar's area of expertise. The next scholar will be JoAnn Manson; her lecture will be, "When Results of Large Studies Are Divergent: Hormone Therapy as a Case Study." Nov. 9, 12:05-1:05 p.m., 2-690 Moos Tower. For more information, see http://www.ahc.umn.edu/ocr/events/dvss.html .

"TIMESCAPES AND GAMELAN: Time Perceptions in Traditional and New Music for Javanese Gamelan," discussion and performance by Joko Sutrisno, Indonesian Performing Arts Association of Minnesota, and Tom Patterson, School of Music. Nov. 9, 4 p.m., Nolte 125. Another Institute for Advanced Study-sponsored event that day, Ode to Mt. Hayachine by Sumiko Haneda; 185 mins, Japanese with English subtitles. 7 p.m., 155 Nicholson Hall.

DISABLED STUDENT CULTURAL CENTER LOOKING FOR WRITERS (students or staff) for its monthly newsletter. The newsletter features news, commentary, fiction works, games, and comics on issues related to disabilities. Submissions of any sort are welcome. For more information or to volunteer, e-mail Rachel Garaghty at [email protected] or call 612-624-2602.

"REALISTIC PUBLIC TRANSPORT FUTURES IN AN UNCERTAIN WORLD" will be the keynote presentation by civil and environmental engineering professor Nigel Wilson, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, at the Center for Transportation Studies 2006 fall luncheon. Nov. 14, 11:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m., Radisson Hotel Metrodome. Cost: $30, $10 students ($5 ITSO students). For more information, call Electra Sylva at 612-624-3707, e-mail [email protected], or see http://www.cts.umn.edu/events/luncheon/2006/fall/ .

CELEBRATE 2006--YEAR OF STUDY ABROAD during International Week (Nov. 11-15). Program will include VP Swan, Regent Larson, study aboard alumni among the speakers. Reception follows. Nov. 15, 3-5 p.m., 3M Auditorium Carlson School. For more information, see www.umabroad.umn.edu .

INAUGURAL CHILDREN'S CANCER RESEARCH FUND LECTURE on "Human Polymorphism and childhood cancer: How We Are Different and How We Are the Same" by Stella Davies, pediatrics professor and Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program director, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. Nov. 17, noon-1 p.m., 450 CCRB. For more information, call 612-626-2778.

SECOND ANNUAL OPEN STUDIO. Nov. 17, 7-9 p.m. Forty-one graduate students from the U's Department of Art will open their studios in the Regis Center for the Arts for a free evening of art, live music, and food. You can also collect 41 limited edition "Super Hero" trading cards created by Stacey Holloway; available at every artist studio.

MORE EVENTS include "Surviving the Next Pandemic: Bird Flu and Other Emerging Infectious Diseases" with Michael Greger (Nov. 8); "Muslims and the West in the Age of Globalization" by Ahmed Samatar (Nov. 9); "The Aesthetics and Politics of Recognition" by Rita Felski, followed by a reception to honor Ruth-Ellen Joeres, professor of German, Scandinavian, and Dutch (Nov. 10); "American Fashion Transformed: Four Master Designers," an exhibition featuring Norman Norell, Pauline Trigere, Bill Blass and Geoffrey Beene (Nov. 11). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota. Gayla Marty, editor (on leave through Dec. 15); Pauline Oo, interim editor.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to the editor at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (11-15-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_11152006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 38; Nov. 15, 2006

Editor: [email protected]

The next issue of Brief will be published after Thanksgiving on Nov. 29.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--U to ask state for $123.4 million --Community envisioned for UMore Park --Eastcliff book club tradition continues --People: Minnesota Medical Foundation staff win publications awards

Transforming the U --A broader "abroad"

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

THE BOARD OF REGENTS APPROVED A $123.4 MILLION BIENNIAL BUDGET REQUEST to the state of Minnesota last Friday. The request is part of a $192.3 million investment plan, which provides $23 million through internal reallocations and generates the remaining $45.9 million through a 4.5 percent tuition increase for each of the next two years--one of the most modest tuition increases in recent history. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/urelate/govrel .

UMORE PARK, U.S.A. The Board of Regents received recommendations Nov. 9 for the 12-square- mile UMore Park property, including short-term cleanup and economic development initiatives and long-term plans for creating a new, sustainable community with residential, research, and retail space. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Community_envisioned_for_UMore_Park.html .

EASTCLIFF BOOK CLUB TRADITION CONTINUES: Since 2004, Susan Hagstrum and Bob Bruininks have been opening their home to the University community and the public for the Friends of Eastcliff Book Club. The events showcase authors with a U connection and promote the sharing of literature in a cozy, casual atmosphere. The tradition continues in 2006-07, and the next event on Dec. 4 will feature a discussion of U alum James Lileks's book Mommy Knows Worst: Highlights from the Golden Age of Bad Parenting Advice. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Eastcliff_book_club_tradition_continues.html .

PEOPLE: The Minnesota Medical Foundation publications staff snagged several communications awards in the 2006 Pride of CASE District V competition. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

Transforming the U:

A BROADER "ABROAD": Meredith McQuaid, Allen Isaacman, and Karen Brown are leading efforts to enhance the U's international programming, soliciting proposals for interdisciplinary research circles, transnational institutional partnerships, and international fellowships--and redefining what is typically meant by "study abroad." Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Global_imperative.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

ACADEMIC AND CORPORATE RELATIONS CENTER IS NOW OPEN. The U's new "front door" offers the business community access to resources and information through the center's concierge service, relationship managers, and Web site. For more information, call 612-626-3438, e-mail [email protected], or see http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/news_details.php? release=061114_3023&page=NS .

NEW FUNDING OPPORTUNITY connected to the University Symposium at the Institute for Advanced Study. "Time" is the topic for the next two academic years (2006-08). The Office of the Vice President for Research has designated $200,000 for collaborative interdisciplinary research projects. First-round proposals are due Jan. 19. Application forms are available at http://www.research.umn.edu/opportunities/intramural or http://www.ias.umn.edu/symposiumapply.php .

THIRD ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM: INITIATIVE FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT will highlight U breakthroughs in renewable energy and the environment and presentations from external partners. Nov. 28, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center, UMTC. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/iree/events.html .

Crookston:

UMC CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL WEEK Nov. 12-17 with a brown-bag lunch series featuring tips on trading internationally, working for global corporations, marketing education overseas, and traveling abroad. Other activities include passport processing and Latin dance lessons. Read more at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story397.html and http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story390.html .

THE AVAILABILITY OF BROADBAND IN RURAL COMMUNITIES will have a direct effect on economic and sustainable development, and the ability to provide quality education and attract and retain young people to keep these communities vibrant, according to UMC faculty members David DeMuth and Martin Lundell. Read more at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story392.html .

UMC associate professor Lyle Westrom is in Egypt through Nov. 21 to introduce active teaching methods in secondary agricultural technical schools. His background in instruction across various age groups and expertise in animal science and agricultural education led to his selection for the USAID trip. Read more at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story396.html .

Duluth:

ANNUAL SALSA DANCE. Nov. 18., 7-11 p.m., Kirby Student Center Ballroom. The event is sponsored by UMD Latino/Chicana Learning Resource Center. Everyone is welcome to attend and learn salsa dancing. Tickets $2 students and $3 general public. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/mlrc/hlc/ .

MINNESOTA NATIONAL PRINT BIENNIAL comes to the Northland for the first time, opening Nov. 21, UMD Tweed Museum of Art. The exhibition is a selection of contemporary prints by 77 artists from 43 U.S. states and Canada, offering a wide range of styles and techniques for both casual visitors and seasoned artists. Exhibit ends on Jan. 11. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/tma/ .

ARCTIC EXPLORER LONNIE DUPRE will speak about the use of GPS and map technology and the effect of global climate changes in the Arctic. Nov. 16, noon, Kirby Student Center Ballroom. Last year, Dupre became the first person (with his partner) to travel to the North Pole in the summer. The speech is part of UMD's Geographic Information Sciences Laboratory event, titled "Discovering Our Minnesota Landscape Using GIS." UMD Geography Department and the Minnesota GIS/LIS Consortium are event sponsors. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/geog/lab .

Morris:

ADVANCE TICKETS FOR THE ANNUAL UMM CAROL CONCERTS are now available. The Concert Choir will perform Dec. 1-2, 7:30 p.m., and Dec.3, 2 p.m., in the Morris Area High School Concert Hall. In honor of this year's theme, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," a roast beast feast will be served before each concert. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php? itemID=1632 .

WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM upset top-ranked St. Scholastica 1-0 in double overtime to win their third straight Upper Midwest Athletic Conference postseason title. Read more at http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1668 .

HEAD FOOTBALL COACH Ken Crandall was named the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference North Division and Conference Coach of the Year. Crandall led the Cougars to their first-ever UMAC championship. Read more at http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1674 .

Twin Cities:

EAST RIVER PARKWAY REOPENS. East River Parkway, between Franklin and Yale Avenues, reopened Nov. 13. The road had been closed the past six months for reconstruction of the Bridal Veil Falls Bridge. For more information on this project, visit the City of Minneapolis Web site at http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/public-works/cip/bridal-veil/index.asp#TopOfPage .

SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY IS SEEKING PATIENTS who are missing all of their natural teeth and need both a full upper and a full lower denture. Qualifying patients will receive the dentures at a reduced rate ($675 for dentures, examination, and x-rays) for participating in the 14-week program that begins Jan. 29. Patients must come for treatment once per week during the program. Call Dee at 612-625-1144 for a consult appointment.

BEYOND THE YELLOW RIBBON: REINTEGRATION TRAINING. On Nov. 9, UMTC student services staff were invited to learn about how they can better serve student-veterans returning from duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. These returning soldiers are going to "stretch the social fabric of Minnesota," said Chaplain Major John Morris as he addressed a group of more than 120. Read more in this month's edition of The Record; http://onestop.umn.edu/onestop/U_Resources/News2C_Events2C_and_Activities/The_Record/Record_200611.html .

"THE SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION OF AMERICAN SOCIETY," a lecture by Rabbi Michael Lerner. Nov. 16, 7 p.m., Ted Mann Concert Hall. Another Institute for Advanced Study event that day at 7 p.m., 155 Nicholson Hall: The Cherry Tree with Gray Blossoms, by Sumiko Haneda. 42 mins, Japanese with English subtitles. For information about the Institute for Advanced Study, see http://ias.umn.edu

CLINICAL RESEARCH CONFERENCE provides scholars, faculty, and staff a forum to present and discuss research methodology and findings, as well as topics of general clinical research. Twice- monthly meetings: Sarah Cooley (Nov. 20), Mukta Aurora (Dec. 4), and Kamakshi Lakshminarayan (Dec. 18). 1-450G Moos Tower. For more information, see http://www.cecc.ahc.umn.edu/ocr/events/crc.html .

"WHY AMERICAN STUDIES NEEDS TO THINK ABOUT KOREAN CINEMA," American Studies in the 21st Century Colloquium Series, by Christina Klein, associate professor of English at Boston College and author of "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: A Diasporic Reading" in Cinema Journal. Nov. 20, 3:30 p.m., 101 Walter Library.

NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATION at the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs. Nov. 20-21. The program will feature leaders from the Apache Tribe of Oklahoma (members of the Chalepah family), who will talk about their governance structure and culture and perform traditional tribal music with local students. For full schedule of events, see http://www.hhh.umn.edu/news/headlines/headlines2006/apache_tribe.html .

COMMUNICATING ACROSS CULTURES with Gabriele Schmiegel and Barbara Kappler, International Scholar and Student Services. Nov. 28, 2-4 p.m. 110 Heller Hall. Interactive session to learn about common cultural differences and gather tips for communicating with non-native English speakers. Register at http://www.isss1.umn.edu/itc/s4reg.lasso or call 612-626-7100.

"HONORS, RECOGNITION, AND ACADEMIC TRADITION--Building on Our Tradition of Excellence," a workshop that will take the mystery out of the nomination processes and event protocol for the honorary degree, Outstanding Achievement Award, Award of Distinction; and the Alumni Service Award. Includes a presentation on academic regalia. Nov. 29, 10-11:30 a.m., Mississippi Room, Coffman Union. The workshop is free, but registration is required; e-mail [email protected] by Nov. 22.

"GREENING THE SUPPLY CHAIN: Environmental Innovations in Freight Transportation" is the theme of the 10th Annual Freight and Logistics Symposium sponsored by the Center for Transportation Studies. Larry Fair, general manager of 3M Traffic Safety Systems Division, will present the keynote, focusing on how 3M's small changes in packaging methods and freight transport have had a major impact on the environment. Dec. 1, 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Four Points Sheraton, Minneapolis. Cost: $30, $10 students. For more information, contact Electra Sylva at 612-624-3708 or [email protected] or see http://www.cts.umn.edu/events/logsymposium .

ROUNDTABLE ON INTERNATIONAL HIV/AIDS AND HUMAN RIGHTS cohosted by the School of Public Health in recognition of World AIDS Day. Dec. 1, 9 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Free and open to the public, but registration is required. For agenda and to register, see http://www.sph.umn.edu/cpheo/events/roundtable/Roundtable_120106.html .

PRAXIS/PRACTICE EXHIBIT by graduate students from U's Department of Art and College of Design and students from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Focus areas: Apparel, architecture, ceramics, design communications, interior design, interactive media, landscape architecture, painting, and sculpture. Exhibition runs through Dec. 15. Public reception Dec. 1, 6-8:30 p.m., Katherine E. Nash Gallery.

SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota. Gayla Marty, editor (on leave through Dec. 15); Pauline Oo, interim editor.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to the editor at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (11-29-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_11292006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 39; Nov. 29, 2006

Editor: [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Enhancements in Rochester --Ascending U: The U is already taking steps to becoming a top three university. --Public engagement spotlight: Center for Small Towns partners with rural communities on revitalization projects --People: Randy Moore is a Minnesota professor of the year.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

ENHANCEMENTS IN ROCHESTER: The University of Minnesota has announced significant enhancements to its presence in Rochester, including new and expanded academic programs and research partnerships, plans for new Rochester faculty, and the designation of the University of Minnesota Rochester as an official campus. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/U_announces_enhancements_in_Rochester.html .

ASCENDING U: Two years into its strategic positioning efforts, the U is already taking steps toward becoming one of the top three public research universities in the world, says U President Robert Bruininks. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Ascending_U.html .

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT: UMM's Center for Small Towns partners with rural communities in Minnesota on revitalization projects. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/Office_for_Public_Engagement/Partnering_with_small_towns.html .

PEOPLE: Biology professor Randy Moore received the 2006 Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching’s Minnesota Professor of the Year Award; U professor Mike Molasky is the first English-speaking scholar to receive the Suntory Prize for Arts and Letters. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

U OF M FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES ELECTS NEW OFFICERS: Fred Friswold, CEO of Tonka Equipment Company, is the new chair; Elliot Kaplan, a partner with Robins, Kaplan, Miller and Ciresi, is vice chair; Stanley Hubbard, chairman and CEO of Hubbard Broadcasting, Inc., secretary; and Lynn Nagorske, president and CEO of TCF Financial Corporation, treasurer. Additionally, four new members were elected to three-year terms on the board: Ruth Bachman, Debra Sit, James Swenson, and Kathryn Tunheim. For more information about UMF or its leadership, see http://www.giving.umn.edu/foundation/leadership/board_trustees.html .

NAME CHANGE AND RESTRUCTURING: from Office for System Administration to Office for System Academic Administration. Senior VP Jones is administrator, overseeing coordinate campuses and other statewide and systemwide academic programs and initiatives such as extension and outreach, public engagement, international programs, institutional research, and management of information technology. Associate VP and Chief Information Officer (CIO) Steve Cawley is now VP and CIO. For more information, see http://www.academic.umn.edu/system .

INNOVATIONS TO REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS: Challenge to develop an idea for a new start-up business based on University of Minnesota research. Open to anyone with an idea for a business based on University innovations. Prizes include $50,000 in start-up funding. To enter, submit the one-page idea sheet by Dec. 1; see http://www.obd.umn.edu/challenge.html or call the Venture Center, 612-626-5438.

NOMINATE AN OUTSTANDING FACULTY MEMBER. The Office of the Provost will host information sessions for those involved in compiling nomination dossiers for the Morse-Alumni Undergraduate, Graduate/Professional, and Tate Advising awards. Topics include dossier format, including the use of new templates the provost's office will provide beginning this year, and tips for compiling a strong dossier. Dec. 5, 10–11 a.m., 101 Walter Library (UMTC); Dec. 7, 10–11 a.m., 106 SCC (UMC), 173 Kirby (UMD), and 7 HFA (UMM). RSVP to Robin Matross Helms at 612-626-5598, [email protected], by Dec. 1.

BECOMING A FULL PROFESSOR: A WORKSHOP FOR ASSOCIATE PROFESSORS. The Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost is offering a workshop about working toward promotion to full professor. Dec. 18, 10 a.m.–noon., 165 Peik Hall (UMTC; space is limited to 25). ITV locations on other campuses yet to be determined, but participants will be notified as soon as the locations are confirmed. For more information and to register, e-mail Cheryl Johnson at [email protected] .

APPLICATIONS ARE INVITED FOR 2007 JURAN FELLOWSHIP and Juran Doctoral Awards for Ph.D. students interested in conducting research guided by quality principles. Proposals due Jan. 18; information session on Dec. 7, 11 a.m.–noon, 4-118, Carlson School of Management. RSVP to Jill Pearson-Wood at 612-626-4555 or [email protected]. For more information, visit http://www.carlsonschool.umn.edu/juran .

NEW CENTER FOR NANOSTRUCTURED APPLICATIONS, in the Institute of Technology, is seeking research proposals in the area of active nanostructures. Proposals are due by noon on Dec. 31. For more information, see http://www.nano.umn.edu .

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS: 2007 Distinguished Women Scholars Awards, sponsored by the Office of the Dean of the Graduate School and the Office for University Women. Awards are given to two women faculty members--one in sciences and engineering; another in humanities, social sciences, and the arts. Each person receives $2,000 for research or scholarly or artistic activities, a personal plaque, and a plaque for her college. Nomination deadline to college deans Jan. 19; final nominations to Graduate School by Jan. 29. For more information, see http://www.grad.umn.edu/faculty-staff/funding/OUW .

PRESENTATION PROPOSALS FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING CONFERENCE are due Jan. 29. On April 23, 2007, the U’s Academy of Distinguished Teachers, the Center for Teaching and Learning, and the Digital Media Center, with support from the Bush Foundation, are sponsoring the conference “Enhancing Student Learning: Conversations About Research and Practice” on the Twin Cities campus. For more information, see http://www.adt.umn.edu/conference07 or call 612-624-5082.

Crookston:

EIGHTEEN-MEMBER COMMITTEE REVIEWING ATHLETIC PROGRAM released its findings Nov. 27, after five months of data collection and analysis. The committee’s report indicates that Golden Eagle athletic programs have grown over the years, providing a variety of opportunities for many students--both women and men--and attracting additional students of color to campus. The report also details challenges faced by the program. Read more at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story406.html .

ANNUAL AG ACTIVITIES DAY has have brought some 1,300 students from 50 area high schools to UMC for more than 25 years to compete for $32,000 in scholarship money. This year’s event will be held Dec. 1. The top three individuals in each contest will receive $750, $600, and $450 respectively. More details at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story403.html .

TIES TO THE AREA influenced Cyril and Frances (Stauning) Carpenter of Bloomington, Minn., to establish a $40,000 scholarship endowment at UMC. The Stauning Carpenter Scholarship Fund is the latest in the U of M Presidential Scholarship Match program at UMC. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story400.html .

Duluth:

VENUS STUDY BY UMD PROFESSOR FEATURED IN NEW SCIENTIST SPACE: new discoveries about the surface of planet Venus revealed in a study conducted by Vicki Hansen, UMD professor of Geological Sciences, and her research group were featured in the online edition of the New Scientist magazine. The group’s study presents evidence that the planet is much older than previously thought. Read more at http://space.newscientist.com/article/dn10427-venuss-surface-may-be- much-older-than-thought.html .

“THE SINGULAR LIFE OF ALBERT NOBBS,” the tale of a woman pretending to be a man for economic reasons in 1860s Ireland, will be performed by Dudley Experimental Theatre, Nov. 30– Dec. 3 and Dec. 5–9, 7:30 p.m, Marshall Theatre. The script, written by Simone Benmussa, is based on George Moore’s story “Albert Nobbs.” Tickets are $13 for adults, $11 seniors, and $6 students. For more details, see http://www.d.umn.edu/theatre .

DAVID WYRICK, head of the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the American Society for Engineering Management as the director of the North-Central Region. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/mie .

Morris:

SUSTAINABILITY COORDINATOR TROY GOODNOUGH will be the Scientist on the Spot on Science Buzz, a new Science Museum of Minnesota exhibit and Web site. He will field questions about the UMM gasification project through Dec. 21. For more information, see http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1557 or http://dev.smm.org/buzz/ .

CAREER CENTER DIRECTOR GARY DONOVAN is serving on the Assessment/Benchmarking and Public Relations Committees of the Minnesota College and University Career Services Association, a professional association of career services staff at four-year colleges and universities.

GREG THORSON, political science, has been named to the Minnesota Rural Health Association's Board of Directors. One of his current research projects involves bringing together employers in the 12-county West Central Region to collectively pool their health care insurance risk.

Twin Cities:

The Community Fund Drive improves lives and helps build connections between the U and its broader community. More than $1 million has been raised this year. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Making_connections_with_Minnesota_charities.html

COMO AVENUE IS NOW OPEN. The city of Minneapolis reopened Como Avenue from 22nd Ave. S.E. to 24th Ave. S.E. The road will be closed again next spring to complete a reconstruction, including water-main replacement. For more information, visit http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/public- works/cip/comoavese.

COPYRIGHT PERMISSION REQUESTS FOR SPRING 2007 course materials should be submitted to the Copyright Permissions Center as soon as possible. Full citations may be dropped off at any Printing Services location, faxed to 612-626-9810, mailed to 102 Printing Services Building, or submitted online at http://www.copyright.umn.edu . For more information, contact Dale Mossestad at [email protected] or 612-626-9416.

FOR THE HOLIDAYS: the Food Science and Nutrition Department is selling cheese gift boxes. You can choose from six types of University of Minnesota-made cheese; gift certificates are also available--in $5 and $10 increments. For more information, see http://fscn.cfans.umn.edu/services/dairy_salesroom.html .

DISCOUNT TICKETS FOR THE SCIENCE MUSEUM: Save $3 (students save $7) on tickets for the Body Worlds exhibit at the Science Museum of Minnesota. Tickets are available at the Coffman Union or St. Paul Student Center information desks or Gopher Express West. The exhibit runs through Dec. 3, and the number of discount tickets is limited. For more information, visit http://www.coffman.umn.edu/info/discounttickets.php .

“ANIMALS IN THE COLLECTIONS,” a three-part session by U Libraries. Librarian Linda Eells presents "The Birds and the Bees," with highlights from the U’s ornithological and apicultural resources; Curator Karen Nelson Hoyle examines "Animals in Children's Literature” using images from the Kerlan and Paul Bunyan Collections; Marguerite Ragnow explores European explorers' encounters with animals in "A New World of Animals." Dec. 1, noon–1 p.m. 120 Elmer L. Andersen Library. Free and open to the public.

BUILDING U.S.-CHINA BRIDGES lecture on “India’s Growth from the Perspective of China’s Experience” by economist and scholar Pieter Bottelier. Dec. 6, 4 p.m., Coffman Union Theater. Free and open to the public. For more information, call the China Center at 612-624-1002.

MORE TWIN CITIES CAMPUS EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota. Gayla Marty, editor (on leave through Dec. 15); Pauline Oo, interim editor.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to the editor at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (12-06-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_12062006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 40; Dec. 6, 2006

Editor: [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Q&A with Morris chancellor --Regents Dec. 7-8 meeting preview --Celebrating seasonal holidays --People: Royal Botanical Gardens honors George Weiblen

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

MORRIS ON THE MOVE: Chancellor Jacqueline Johnson discusses the future of University of Minnesota, Morris, and its role in the U's push to become a top-three public research university. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Morris_on_the_move.html .

BOARD OF REGENTS Dec. 7-8 MEETING PREVIEW: Agenda topics include interdisciplinary initiatives and University research reports, state of Minnesota economic update, and employee health care benefits update. For the complete Board of Regents agenda, see http://www1.umn.edu/regents/meetings.html .

CELEBRATING SEASONAL HOLIDAYS: Often, people are uncertain about the best way to celebrate the holidays in the office, and this leads to two kinds of mistakes. The first is to plan "holiday" celebrations that resemble Christmas parties in disguise; the other is to do nothing at all. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/A_party_for_all.html .

PEOPLE: Associate professor George Weiblen receives a fellowship from the Royal Botanical Gardens in the United Kindgom; U employees Zbigniew Bochniarz, Harry Lando, and Meredith McQuaid win the U's 2006 Award for Global Engagement; community program associate Lauren Gilchrist is part of a statewide task force on human trafficking. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

SEEKING 12 FOUNDING FELLOWS: The Institute on the Environment is accepting nominations for 12 senior faculty or research fellows to participate in establishing the new institute. Appointments will be for 10 to 20 percent time, beginning Jan. 16, for up to two years. Compensation to the fellows' home departments will be made at the rate of up to $20,000 a year. Junior faculty will also be considered. Nominations are due by Dec 20. For more information, see http://www.academic.umn.edu/provost/interdisc/environment.html .

NEW 5-DAY DEADLINE FOR GRANTS.GOV PROPOSALS: The Vice President for Research announces a new 5-day deadline for grant proposals requiring submission through the new federal mechanism, Grants.gov, to Sponsored Projects Administration (SPA), effective Jan. 30. For frequently asked questions about SPA deadlines, go to http://www.ospa.umn.edu/policiesandprocedures/deadlines/deadlineFAQs.html .

FUNDING FOR INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARLY ACTIVITIES are available to support international institutional partnerships and research circles for faculty and departments, and research and internships abroad for graduate and professional degree students. Provided by the Office of International Programs, with additional support for the research circle grants from the Office of the Vice President for Research and the Interdisciplinary Center for the Study of Global Change. Proposal deadline is Jan. 29. (Graduate research fellowship deadline is March 9.) For guidelines and application materials, see http://www.international.umn.edu/funding/strategic.html . For more information, contact Karen Brown at 612-624-0832 or [email protected] .

Crookston:

RECENT FIRST-PLACE FINISHES by UMC's Collegiate Crops Team at two national competitions (Chicago and Kansas City) continue a legacy of success. Team members were Meagan McGrane, Wadena; Eric Proulx, Red Lake Falls; and Dan Pazdernik, Waubun. Amy Schwartz, Monticello, served as alternate for both contests. Charles Habstritt, UMC associate professor of agriculture, has served as the coach since the crops teams began participating in the contests 35 years ago. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story408.html .

PRODUCE YOUR OWN BIODIESEL and learn about the latest in corn, alfalfa, and sunflower production, including marketing, storage, and handling, at Crops College 2006. Dec. 19, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Seating is limited, especially in the lab sessions, and preregistration is strongly encouraged. Early registration by Dec. 12 is $40; registration at the door is $50. (Lunch is included.) For more information, call 218-281-8027 or seehttp://www.umcrookston.edu/events/cropscollege/registration06.pdf (PDF 664 KB).

RESULTS FROM "CONNECTING WITH OUR ALUMNI" survey are in, and alumni from UMC recognize that access to world-renowned teaching and research makes a difference. The survey results serve as a gauge for measuring impact and achievement and show UMC's significance as a regional hub in northwestern Minnesota for undergraduate education leading to a University of Minnesota diploma; technology applications in higher education; innovation and entrepreneurism; regional sustainability; and leadership development. For more information, see http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story409.html .

EMILY KNUTSON, formerly a personal banker for Wells Fargo Bank, joins Mary Feller, financial aid officer and scholarship coordinator, in the Student Financial Aid Office.

Duluth:

JOSEPH PROHASKA, professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, was recently invited to become a contributing editor of Nutrition Reviews, published by the International Life Sciences Institute. The monthly publication is an international journal featuring authoritative and critical review of significant developments in the areas of nutrition science and policy. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/medweb/biochem .

LAKE EFFECT AND CHILL FACTOR JAZZ ENSEMBLE, directed by Tina Thielen-Gaffey, performs in a vocal jazz concert. Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m., Weber Music Hall. Tickets are $6 adults, $5 seniors, and $3 students. Learn more at http://www.d.umn.edu/music/events .

"THE STARGAZING TONIGHT" series will be presented Dec. 6, 7 p.m., Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium. The series is a general introduction to the night sky, solar system, and current astronomical events and is held the first Wednesday of each month. Free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/~planet .

WINTER JAZZ CONCERT by UMD Jazz I and II Ensembles and guest saxophonist Greg Abate, Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m., Weber Music Hall. Tickets are $6 adults, $5 seniors, and $3 students. For more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/music/events .

Morris:

FIRST-YEAR SEMINAR STUDENTS from 27 sections presented their semester's work during the annual First-Year Seminar Jamboree, Nov. 30. A variety of formats were used, including skits, dance, and interactive, but all surrounded the general theme of human diversity. First-Year Seminar is a required course for all incoming freshmen at UMM that encourages informal discussion and nurtures critical thinking.

COMMUNITY SERVICE AND VOLUNTEERISM in the Office of Student Activities is coordinating a number of volunteer holiday programs to assist Morris and regional residents. Projects include Adopt-a-Family, Toys for Tots, Tales for Tots, a mitten tree, and a first-holiday event for students who are parents. Read more at http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php?itemID=1834 .

Twin Cities:

BE A CAMPUS CLUB MEMBER: For a limited time, new members can save 50 percent on membership dues the first year. Your membership will entitle you to bring family, friends, and colleagues to lunch or dinner in the Cafe Bar, one of our special monthly dinners, or other events designed for members. For membership benefits, see http://www.umn.edu/cclub/newsneverbeen.htm .

DIVERSITY THROUGH THE DISCIPLINES: First of three-part forum, featuring research conducted by some of the 2001-04 recipients of the President's Faculty Multicultural Research Award. Dec. 7, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Presidents Room, Coffman Memorial Union. Jennifer L. Pierce, "Narratives of Race and Innocence in Hollywood's Depiction of the White Messiah Lawyer," and Cheryl Robertson, "Developing Community-based Parenting Support for Refugee Trauma Survivors." Next sessions are Feb. 8 and March 8.

EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS at CCE Headliners event, Dec. 7. Scientist Meri Firpo will discuss the science behind embryonic stem cells and the results that can be expected from this line of research. Question-and-answer session follows. Tickets are $10; call 612-624-4000 or see http://www.cce.umn.edu/enrichment/headliners/whowhatwhenwhere.html .

LIVING CLOSE TO CAMPUS offers many financial and lifestyle advantages; University employees Judith Martin, Patti Franklin, Gordon Murdock, and Susan Larsonfleming present their perspectives on the many advantages of living near campus. Dec. 14, noon-1:30 p.m., 210 Donhowe. Other neighborhood representatives will also be available to provide information on housing-finance options and livability issues. Register at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/worklife/seminars.html . For more information, call Mary Everley at 612-626-0775 or e-mail [email protected] .

MEMORIAL SERVICE for Regents Professor Emeritus Robert Gorlin. Dec 16, 3-6 p.m., Campus Club. The internationally acclaimed clinician, researcher, and scholar died in August at age 83.

BOULDERING WALL at the Recreation Center will be closed Wednesday and Thursday due to the Gear Sale this week. If you're interested in climbing, the climbing wall at the St. Paul Gym will be open 3-10 p.m., both days.

MORE TWIN CITIES CAMPUS EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php .

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota. Gayla Marty, editor (on leave through Dec. 15); Pauline Oo, interim editor.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to the editor at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (12-13-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_12132006.html. Vol. XXXVI No. 41; Dec. 13, 2006

Editor: [email protected]

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--At the regents meeting --The U in urban affairs --Public engagement spotlight --People: Rajesh Chandy named to national advisory panel on measuring innovation

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

CUMULATIVE EFFECT: From reviewing interdisciplinary initiatives and campus expansion to updating U policies and extending the president's contract, Transforming the U was a constant theme at the December 2006 Board of Regents meetings. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Cumulative_effects.html.

THE U IN URBAN AFFAIRS: Co-directors John Adams and Judith Martin share their preliminary views on the U's new University Metropolitan Consortium, an interdisciplinary initiative with the mission of coordinating and enhancing University engagement on urban issues. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Putting_the_U_in_urban_affairs.html.

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT: In 1994 University professor Mark Umbreit founded the Center for Restorative Justice and Peacemaking, the first such center in the United States. In 2005, he established the Muslim Restorative Justice Outreach project. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Peacemaking_in_the_time_of_hostility.html.

PEOPLE: Rajesh Chandy to serve on the Measuring Innovation in the 21st Century Economy Advisory Committee; Patricia Hampl's new book honored by The New York Times; National Academy of Public Administration inducts J. Brian Atwood; Karen Himle is the new VP for University Relations at UMTC. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html.

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

DEVELOP PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH STUDENTS and help fraternities and sororities connect to resources on campus through the fraternity and sorority faculty/staff adviser program sponsored by the Office for Student Affairs and the Office for Fraternity and Sorority Life. There are currently 46 chapters at the U, including 10 multicultural organizations. For more information, contact Chad Ellsworth at 612-624-7659 or [email protected].

HENNEPIN-UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP: Hennepin County and the University of Minnesota have launched a partnership to collaborate more on community-based research, share academic and practitioner expertise, and provide students with field experience. For more information, see the Smartlink newsletter at http://www.cura.umn.edu/HUP.php or contact Kathie Doty at 612-625-4383 or [email protected].

SPECIAL TICKET OFFER FROM THE GUTHRIE: University of Minnesota faculty and staff can save $10 per ticket on any remaining performance of Edgardo Mine, the true story of a young Jewish boy, Edgardo Mortara. For more information or to buy tickets, see http://www.guthrietheater.org/Portals/0/gmail/edgardo_umn.htm.

BECOMING A FULL PROFESSOR: A WORKSHOP FOR ASSOCIATE PROFESSORS. The Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost is offering workshops about working toward full professorship. The first workshop on Dec. 18, 10 a.m.-noon, is full for UMTC, but space is still available on other campuses. Due to the level of interest, two workshops have been added: Dec. 19, 10 a.m.-noon, L-114 Carlson School, UMTC; and Dec. 21, 3-5 p.m., (ITV locations) 100 Dowell, UMC; 173 Kirby, UMD; HFA 7, UMM. For more information or to sign up for a workshop, e-mail Cheryl Johnson at [email protected].

THE GREAT UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA GET TOGETHER: The U's first Quality Fair will be Jan. 25, 8 a.m.-noon. More than 40 University poster exhibitors will share their ideas and best practices that improve teaching, learning, research, and work processes. Doug Lennick, Lennick Aberman Group, will give the keynote address, "WDYWFY--What Do You Want For You--Breakthrough Leadership-- Aligning Personal Values, Aspirations, and Behaviors With Organizational Strategy and Culture." Everyone is invited to share mini-donuts, cotton candy, and mini-corn dogs, as well as learn about and celebrate great improvements. Sponsored by the Office of Service and Continuous Improvement and the Improvement Liaison Group. Register at http://www1.umn.edu/osci/fair.html.

Crookston:

THOMAS BALDWIN, vice chancellor for academic affairs, will travel to Taiwan Dec. 7-17 to visit seven universities keen on developing relationships with UMC. Several have already expressed interest in signing agreements of cooperation. Read more at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story413.html.

THREE UMC SOPHOMORES--Cory Detloff, Staples-Motley; Desiree Carrlson, New York Mills; and Amanda Fickes, Sebeka--received their American FFA degrees at the 2006 national FFA convention. The degree is the highest level an FFA member can achieve as part of the FFA degree system, and UMC has the only collegiate FFA chapter in Minnesota. Read more at http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story415.html.

Duluth:

BUILDING HOUSES IN NEW ORLEANS: A group of 40 UMD students and staff members will travel to a New Orleans Jan. 6-14 to build houses with Habitat for Humanity. The group will join some 1,000 volunteers, the largest ever helping at the site. UMD's Phi Sigma Sigma sorority members are organizing the trip and actively raising funds to cover travel expenses. The group will also contribute $6,000 to the New Orleans project. To donate or for more information, see http://www.d.umn.edu/unirel/homepage/06/katrina.html.

RANDALL GORDON, psychology professor, received the 2006-07 Chancellor's Award for Distinguished Research. The annual award ceremony will be held Dec. 14, 3:15 p.m., 130 Medical School Duluth; Gordon will present his research award lecture, "Age Bias in Laboratory and Field Settings: A Meta- Analytic Investigation." A reception follows in Griggs Center. The public is invited. Read more at http://www.d.umn.edu/psychology/news.

Morris:

EDWARD J. LAFAVE, longtime U benefactor, passed away Dec. 6. LaFave and his wife Patty have been members of the University of Minnesota Presidents Club since 1982.

ABOUT 50 UMM STUDENTS will participate in the ninth annual Multicultural Student Leadership Retreat in late January. The retreat, coordinated through the Office of Student Activities, will be Jan. 26-28, Prairie Wetlands Learning Center in Fergus Falls.

Twin Cities:

CHEER FOR THE GOPHERS IN ARIZONA: The Golden Gopher football team will play the Texas Tech Red Raiders at the Insight Bowl in Tempe, Ariz. Dec. 29, 6:05 p.m. (MST), Sun Devil Stadium. Fans receive a $7 discount off the price of each ticket when purchasing tickets through the U of M Athletic Ticket Office--with seating between the Minnesota Marching Band and the 45-yard line on the Minnesota side of the field; call 1-800-U-Gopher or see www.gophersports.com.

PROVIDE FEEDBACK to One Stop Student Services about its services through its new online comment card. To learn more, read this month's edition of The Record at http://onestop.umn.edu/onestop/U_Resources/News2C_Events2C_and_Activities/The_Record/Record_200612.html.

"DINKYTOWN HISTORIES: Multiple Stories, Multiple Meanings," features work by undergraduates in HIST 3001: Public History. The exhibit's opening is Dec. 15, 6-9 p.m., 125 Nolte Hall. The students partnered with Dinkytown residents, activists, businesses, and artists to develop five themes: Dinkytown's music scene, social protest in the 1970s, the historic preservation debate surrounding Minneapolis's mills and grain elevators, the role of public art in community identity, and how transportation changes have impacted the neighborhood. Dinkytown restaurants will provide food; local musical acts will perform.

MORE TWIN CITIES CAMPUS EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu.

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php.

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota. Gayla Marty, editor (on leave through Dec. 15); Pauline Oo, interim editor.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to the editor at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .

Brief (12-20-2006)

Read Brief on the Web at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief/Brief_12202006.html . Vol. XXXVI No. 42; Dec. 20, 2006 Editor: Gayla Marty, [email protected]

Editor's note: This is the last issue of Brief in 2006. Weekly publication will resume Jan. 10. The deadline for submissions is 1 p.m. on the Friday before publication. Happy new year!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

--Biennial budget push begins this week; state legislature will convene Jan. 3. --City of Minneapolis University Research Park will expand with state grant. --Strong rebound: Six years of athletic compliance improvements at UMTC. --People: Berthelsen named associate VP for UMTC Facilities Management, and more.

Campus Announcements and Events University-wide | Crookston | Duluth | Morris | Twin Cities

THE BIENNIAL BUDGET PUSH begins this week as President Bruininks and others conduct a series of briefings for journalists and editorial page writers. Minnesota's 85th Legislature will convene Jan. 3. A fact sheet on the U-wide 2008-2009 biennial request is available at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/govrel .

CITY OF MINNEAPOLIS UNIVERSITY RESEARCH PARK will continue to grow, thanks to support from a $1 million grant to the city from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. Growth will include additional sites to attract bioscience companies seeking proximity to U research facilities. See http://www.deed.state.mn.us/news/release/2006/wd15Dec06bioscience.htm .

STRONG REBOUND: Six years ago, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) cited UMTC for "significant, widespread, and intentional" violations of intercollegiate athletic policy. Today, UMTC's athletic compliance program is a national model. Frank Kara, director of athletic compliance, talked recently about the turn-around. Read more at http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Feature_Stories/Strong_rebound.html .

PEOPLE: New associate VP of UMTC Facilities Management is Mike Berthelsen, currently serving as interim associate VP; new director of UMTC Information Services in University Relations will be Casandra Horner, beginning Jan. 8; and more. See http://www.umn.edu/umnnews/Faculty_Staff_Comm/people.html .

CAMPUS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

University-wide:

INSTITUTE ON THE ENVIRONMENT FOUNDING FELLOWS: NOMINATIONS DUE TODAY. The primary responsibility of these initial fellows will be to work with the interim director to implement recommendations from the senior vice president for academic affairs and provost to form an executive committee, to identify and recruit an initial cohort of institute research fellows, to provide for interim government, to provide leadership for research opportunities, to establish the institute's culture and themes, and to initiate its program of events and activities. Nominations are due electronically to Deborah Swackhamer, interim director, by Dec. 20: [email protected] . Complete announcement with details of the nomination and selection process, as well as more information on the institute, are at http://www.academic.umn.edu/provost/interdisc/environment . Selections will be announced in early January.

THE NEXT CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE (CSC) MEETING will be Dec. 21, 9 a.m.-noon, 22 McNeal Hall, St. Paul, UMTC. See http://www.umn.edu/csc.

THE U'S 2006 ANNUAL REPORT is now on the Web at http://process.umn.edu/annualreport .

MILEAGE RATE CHANGES FOR 2007: The U.S. Internal Revenue Service has announced increases in the standard business mileage rates for calendar year 2007.

Beginning Jan. 1, the standard business mileage reimbursement rate for personal vehicle use on approved U business will increase from 44.5 cents to 48.5 cents per mile. See the rates section of the U policy, Traveling on University Business 3.8.3, at http://www.fpd.finop.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/policy/Travel.cfm . The standard mileage rate for moving expenses also will increase, from 18 to 20 cents per mile. Business mileage incurred in 2006 but reimbursed in 2007 must be reimbursed using the 2006 mileage rate. The Employee Expense Worksheet (UM 1612) accommodates changes to the mileage rates.

TRAVEL POLICY ADDITIONS AND CHANGES:

When traveling on University business, fees charged by airlines for aisle seats are not reimbursable. Employees should choose seats that are not assessed extra fees. See Frequently Asked Questions at http://www.fpd.finop.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/FAQ/faq_travel.cfm and Reimbursable/Non-Reimbursable Travel Expenses at http://www.fpd.finop.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/appendix/TravelAppI.cfm. Historically, Canada has been considered domestic travel for the U. In Chart of Accounts, object/sub-object code 7600-20 has been used for domestic travel, including Canada. Effective immediately, Canada will be recognized as international travel by the U; use object/sub-object code 7610-10 for foreign travel. This applies to all unprocessed travel reimbursements, regardless of the date of travel. See the policy, Traveling on University Business 3.8.3, under definitions at http://www.fpd.finop.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/policy/Travel.cfm#500.

Crookston:

NEW ASSOCIATE VICE CHANCELLOR FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT, effective Dec. 1, is Pam Holsinger-Fuchs. In this role, she will work to ensure coordination and integration of traditional student affairs services with academic programs and support services. In conjunction with academic affairs, she also will provide leadership in the planning, coordination, promotion, and evaluation of student recruitment, retention, and graduation. See http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story419.html .

THE JUNE SHAVER ENVIRONMENTAL LANDSCAPING INTERNSHIP FUND has been endowed with a gift of more than $30,000 by longtime Crookston resident and ardent UMC supporter June Shaver. The endowment will support UMC full-time undergraduates who show academic promise. See http://www.umcrookston.edu/umcnews/stories/story416.html .

Duluth:

GLENSHEEN HISTORIC CONGDON ESTATE will offer holiday brunches and twilight tours throughout December. Brunches start every Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. with a tour of the mansion, giving visitors insights into the holiday celebration at the turn of the last century. Twilight tours will be presented Dec. 27-31, between the hours of 2 and 6 p.m. See http://www.d.umn.edu/glen/glenda.htm .

THE STAR OF BETHLEHEM: AN ASTRONOMER'S PERSPECTIVE will be presented by the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium. Today, 7 p.m.; free and open to the public. Private presentations for 10 or more individuals can be scheduled by contacting the planetarium. See http://www.d.umn.edu/~planet .

Morris:

HEAD FOOTBALL COACH Ken Crandall announced his resignation, effective Dec. 20, to become the head football coach at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas. Crandall coached the 2006 UMM Cougar football team to its first-ever Upper Midwest Athletic Conference championship and its first conference championship since 1986. See http://www.morris.umn.edu/ummnews/View.php? itemID=1886 .

Twin Cities:

THE BOARD OF REGENTS will meet Jan. 3 to review and approve the schematic design and budget for the UMTC campus stadium. For more information, see http://www.umn.edu/regents and http://www.umn.edu/stadium .

FREE PREVIEW OF NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: Preview the family comedy from 20th Century Fox, opening in theaters this weekend, at the Bell Museum of Natural History, followed by a guided, after-hours flashlight tour of the Bell's famous dioramas. Dec. 21, 7 p.m., Bell Museum. See http://www.bellmuseum.org or call 612-624-9050.

"MAKING SENSE OF A COMPLEX WORLD," by Christopher Budd, professor of applied mathematics and director of the Centre for Nonlinear mechanics, U of Bath, U.K., is the next public lecture sponsored by the Institute for Mathematics and Its Applications. Budd will show how simple properties often emerge from seemingly complex systems and how those properties can be used to gain understanding. Jan. 18, 7 p.m., 125 Willey Hall. See http://www.ima.umn.edu/2006- 2007/PUB1.18.07/ .

MORE EVENTS include Governing magazine editor Peter Harkness on "The State of the States: Challenges and Opportunities" (Jan. 8); C.H. Robinson Worldwide CEO John Wiehoff on global supply chains and third-party logistics, at the Carlson School of Management's First Tuesday luncheon (Jan. 9); and "The Cannabis Controversy" with the Bell Museum's curator of plants, George Weiblen (Jan. 9). SEE THESE AND MORE TWIN CITIES EVENTS ONLINE at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

NEWS RELEASES are posted daily at http://www.umn.edu/urelate/newsservice/home.php

Published by University Relations at the University of Minnesota; Gayla Marty, editor.

Please send comments, questions, or submissions to the editor at [email protected] . All Twin Cities event submissions are handled through the events calendar at http://events.tc.umn.edu .

Brief is published by e-mail and on the Web at www.umn.edu/umnnews/Publications/Brief.html. See also UMNnews, a U-wide Web publication, at www.umn.edu/umnnews .