Rensselaer in the News Ing Biological Systems

A SOLD-OUT CROWD ROCKED THE HOUSTON FIELD HOUSE for the 30th annual Big Red Freakout Jan. 20. The Engineers tied with St. Lawrence, 3-3, preserving their 17-game unbeaten streak in Freakout games (12-0-5). Rensselaer’s Red Army, a new student club on campus devoted to “promoting school spirit and energizing traditions,” helped turn the arena into a sea of red. www.rpi.edu/magazine

VICE PRESIDENT FOR STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS William Walker

MANAGING EDITOR Tracey Leibach

ART DIRECTOR Diane Piester S

ALUMNI NEWS EDITOR ASAKI Meg Gallien A SSOCIA

FEATURES EDITOR TES Clorinda Valenti Architect’s rendering of the proposed East Campus Athletic Village. See page 8. WEB DESIGNER Jeffrey Caron FEATURES

CONTRIBUTORS 16 Pipeline to the Future Amber Cleveland Rensselaer programs inspire the next generation Jason Gorss Ellen Johnston to pursue careers in engineering, technology, math, Nancy Kelly and the sciences. Jessica Otitigbe

PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS 22 Unraveling Proteins Gary Gold Two Rensselaer researchers team up to conduct ground- Lonny Kalfus Tom Killips breaking biotechnology research—and to attract more Mark McCarty young people to their fields. Kris Qua 28 Urban Pioneer

ON THE COVER: Troy middle school Stephen Chung ’91 is bringing modern design students Meaghan Gallagher and to historic Boston—and architectural savvy to Sanghai Kamara. Photo by Mark McCarty. a television audience.

Rensselaer (ISSN 0898-1442) is DEPARTMENTS published in Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter by the Office of Strategic 4 President’s View 34 Staying Connected Communications and External Relations, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180-3590. Periodicals postage is 5 Mail 35 Calendar paid at Troy, N.Y., and additional mailing An entrepreneurial culture. offices. 36 Class Notes Postmaster: send address changes to Rensselaer, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, NY 6 At Rensselaer In Memoriam 55 12180-3590. Rensselaer Polytechnic Making a Difference 8 Institute is an equal opportunity/affirma- In the News 9 tive action institution. 56 One Last Thing Research Roundup 13 Musical memories of Joel Dolven. Opinions expressed in these pages do not Focus On: Don Fry 14 necessarily reflect the views of the editors or the policies of the Institute. ©2007

K Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Please let us know your new address. Update it electronically on AlumServ, e-mail RIS us at [email protected], or write to: Rensselaer Magazine, Office of Strategic Q

U Moving? Communications and External Relations, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, A NY 12180 or fax to (518) 276-3715.

SNAPSHOT

A Vexing Problem!

In December, approximately 150 students from Rensselaer and three local high schools came together on campus to compete in an unofficial competition called “The Game,” which incorporated the Vex Robotic Design System. Vex is used by the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technolo- gy) organization in its competitions for high school students. FIRST, founded by inventor Dean Kamen in 1989 to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology, sponsors a series of challenges and competitions for K-12 students involving LEGO and Vex robotic technologies. Nine teams—including four Rensse- laer teams that included students in Introduction to Engineering Design (IED)—took part in the competition, which required each team’s robot to retrieve balls from a loading station, negotiate one of several obstacle paths, and place the balls in a scoring contain- er. According to Paul Schoch, associate professor of electrical, computer, and systems engineering, the Vex event was set up to do two things: to give students in IED a fun challenge, and to give the high school teams a warm-up exercise to prepare for the FIRST Robotics Com- petition (FRC) later in the year. “In terms of complexity and difficulty there is a progression from FIRST LEGO League to Vex to FRC,” says Schoch. “There is also a progression in student ages. What we do is to extend that pipeline into college with our students being mentors for the LEGO and FRC teams,” he says. “We hope that when they leave Rensselaer, they will continue to mentor teams, helping to grow a bigger pipeline with larger numbers of students excited about science, technology, engineering, and math.” To learn more about Rensselaer’s outreach efforts, see “Pipeline to the Future” on page 16.

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 3 PRESIDENT’S VIEW | SHIRLEY ANN JACKSON, PH.D.

activity. The agora provided a reli- technology to enable them to take gious and cultural center. It was the what they know and to apply it in seat of justice. The agora was the diverse arenas. Innovation needs societal nexus. this cross pollination. A global Our contemporary agora experience—either through includes these—and more: pro- semesters of study abroad or by fessional societies, unions, think utilizing the Internet for coopera- tanks, commercial marketing, the tive, collaborative projects—is media, the entertainment indus- becoming an essential part of a try—and science and technology. robust educational experience. As And of course, we have the Inter- for broader public education and net—an engine of information appreciation of science, the sci- and disinformation without equal. entific community itself, through Global in its reach, staggering in its its professional societies, must power, it is transforming the Age of engage the public and make sci- Information. The agora—then ence more accessible. and now—is where the public It can help people, not only to selects its “truth,” where society see the fun of science, but also to accepts what it will regard as “fact,” understand what science is, what where leaders make public policy a scientific theory is—as opposed decisions. to belief—how science is done, What happens when the agora that accepted scientific models or Science and the is populated with self-proclaimed theories are based on evidence, “experts,” with “authorities” sup- the testing of hypotheses by exper- Global Marketplace porting every view? The result is the iment, and that theories change as devaluing of information—the new evidence emerges. devaluing of science. The trend Science-rooted government he following is excerpted from contend that the changes and the undermines the scientist as the dis- agencies and businesses have an my keynote address “Science challenges—when fused with dis- passionate, objective voice of rea- educational responsibility, as well, T and Society: A Nexus of covery and innovation—will offer son, and weakens science as the to speak in plain language to sup- Opportunity,” which I delivered at the unmatched opportunities. I am an authority for sound public policy. port public understanding of sci- conference SCIENCE+SOCIETY: CLOS- optimist. On issues ranging from genetic ence and to support scientists ING THE GAP this January in Boston. But, how are we to get there? engineering and stem cell research, speaking about their work. This is The conference drew more than 1,500 How are we to think about the to the value of conservation and important in overcoming mistrust educators from 34 states and 20 coun- challenges before us? of science, distrust of tries to explore the importance of science How are we to close scientists, and a shift in national and international issues the gap between sci- On issues ranging from genetic engineering and stem cell away from under- and to consider strategies for improv- ence and society? research, to the value of conservation and the reality of standing the impor- ing science literacy among young Of course, there global warming, our public discourse abounds with con- tance of science to people and the general public. At the cannot be society troversy—and the volume and the passion of the rheto- modern life. It is conference I shared the stage with for- without science—or ric sometimes drowns the voice of science itself. important, also, that mer Vice President Al Gore, who deliv- vice versa. They are [ ] we address the ethics ered the other opening keynote address. integral. There should of the application of be no gap. Our challenge, today, is the reality of global warming, our science in key areas, and how it ties The world has undergone extraor- to think in new ways and map new public discourse abounds with con- to people’s core beliefs. It is a two- dinary changes within the lifetimes paths to erase the sense that there troversy—and, the volume and way street which needs to be trav- of everyone in this room—most is a gap. passion of the rhetoric sometimes eled more frequently to bring brought to us through science and For context, I pose a simple drowns the voice of science itself. light—and less heat—to issues. technology. The world has become metaphor—the marketplace, or How, then, are we to educate We must understand that the smaller, human societies bump what classical Greece dubbed the students for leadership in the glob- nexus of science and public policy, against each other, the global econ- “agora.” The agora was the heart al marketplace? How do we instill inherently, means its nexus with omy is expanding. of ancient Athens society. Inter- the capacity and the motivation to public values, meeting people The changes have brought actions occurred, there, between address the global asymmetries? where they live. Scientific per- unprecedented challenges to our people and all societal sectors— We want our students to spectives will not prevail in all are- nation and to our world—changes government leaders and legisla- acquire a multicultural sophisti- nas, at all times, but we must that demand the most potent inno- tors, commercial, administrative, cation, an intellectual agility, and engage, nonetheless. vation, if they are to be resolved. I political, academic, and social enough knowledge of science and

4 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 MAIL [email protected]

While we wish miscarriage did without or in spite of the evidence. An Entrepreneurial Culture not exist, the fact of the matter is it Ideas taken on faith are not prov- does—and it is common. With Our able or connected to reality in any Hope Place we aim to provide way. The method of faith directly women with some peace of mind, contradicts the method of science udos to Provost Robert A Place for Hope some help, some sisterhood, and and reason. Chernow and Trustee Paul e read with much inter- hope. We applaud Linda Layne’s If RPI truly wanted to be a KSeverino for their efforts in est the article on Linda work. Her tireless advocacy to bring leader, rather than just swallowing building an entrepreneurial culture WLayne’s pregnancy loss better support and care options to whole the latest politically correct at RPI (“Ideas in Action”). It takes research [“Motherhood Lost”]. women who have experienced a fad—such as worshiping the a while to make it happen, but it Like Linda, our own devastating loss gives us hope—every day. “beauty” of religious diversity—I will build like a snowball rolling experiences with miscarriage com- would teach that reason is man’s SHARON (LICHTEN) STENGER ’87 downhill. pelled us to search for information sole means to knowledge, his pri- and LAURA (SVEDA) RACANELLI ’88 Having started as an entrepre- and support. We turned to the mary means of survival, and the Wilton and Darien, Conn. neur in 1968 and part of the start- Internet for help, but searched for only basis for science. up in Silicon Valley in the 1970s, I days only to find sites that left us know it takes a number of factors feeling cold, empty, and drained. Girl Scouts Count DANIEL CALESS ’85 to grow the culture. A strong uni- Additionally we found very few just received the Fall 2006 Gloucester, Mass. versity base, a free enterprise sys- people knew how to offer comfort, issue, and I love to read the tem, good ideas well presented, the and many were scared they might I stats of the incoming classes. ontemporary science will willingness to work long hours, ven- say the wrong thing. Frustrated, we However, I’ve noticed one key sta- never explain everything ture capital, good marketing, good made a choice to help make a tistic missing over the years. You Cbecause the majority of people, a network of like-minded change. Based on a 20-year friend- list 67 Eagle Scouts in the Class of contemporary believers can always peers, and some luck are some of ship, sisterhood (we are sorority sis- 2010, but I have never seen any find some unexplained event or the ingredients necessary to be suc- ters), and a special bracelet of hope, statistics on Girl Scout Gold untestable concept to counter the cessful globally. we created www.OurHopePlace. Award winners. As an Eagle Scout argument that “Science can or will The greatest contributions the com, a site dedicated to friends and father of three Girl Scouts, I explain everything.” United States can make to the helping friends through the devas- can say the Gold Award is in every I suspect if one asked the pro- world economy are teams of high- tation of miscarriage. The site offers way a representation of leadership ponents of intelligent design to list ly educated entrepreneurs who readers guidance about how to skills as is the Eagle Scout award. the top 10 reasons why there must dream up the high value ideas that comfort a loved one who’s experi- When we as engineers are strug- be an intelligent designer, that make the world take notice tomor- enced a miscarriage, as well as infor- gling to recruit more women into within 50 years, science, if proper- row. Bono said it best: “The USA mation about our own experiences our ranks, we should recognize the ly funded and inappropriately dis- is not just a place, it is an idea.” so that women who’ve suffered a accomplishments of those who are tracted, could logically explain loss know that they are not alone. joining us, and hopefully we have a each reason. However, I’m equal- DON SEEHUSEN ’61 few in our incoming classes! ly sure that another comfortable Boise, Idaho concept, perhaps “pre-conceptu- LOU LILLEY ’93 al brainstorming,” would surface Azores, Portugal and provide the necessary basis for another 50 years of smoke. Reason, Not Faith RANDY BROWN ’76 any of the letters attack- Newton, Mass. ing Prof. Sloboda (“Sci- Mence Can Explain Every- EDITOR’S NOTE: Thanks for all the spirited thing”) assert that science is based debate on this topic! The full text of these let- on faith. This assertion is arbitrary; ters and additional letters on the topic can be viewed online at www.rpi.edu/magazine. there is no reason to believe science is based on faith. Quite the We’d love to hear from you! To provide contrary, science is based on rea- space for as many letters as possible, we son—using the evidence of the often must edit them for length. Please senses, directly or indirectly, to address correspondence to: Rensselaer derive valid concepts and princi- Magazine, Strategic Communications ples using logic. Science is based and External Relations, Rensselaer Poly- on the evidence and its results can technic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, e- be logically proven to be true by mail to [email protected], or call tying them back to directly per- (518) 276-6531. ceived facts of reality. Faith is belief

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 5

ATRENSSELAER

LALLY SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT & TECHNOLOGY Energy Program Draws Participants From China

NINETEEN ENGINEERS AND MAN- scale project management. and business management prac- given us an opportunity to explore agers from China Three Gorges Participants from CTGPC tices,” said David Gautschi, dean the potential uses of natural Project Corporation (CTGPC)— spent four months in a residency of the Lally School. “The China resources to provide green, envi- known for the construction of the program at Rensselaer, which Three Gorges Project serves as a ronmentally friendly energy that world’s largest hydropower dam consisted of tailored academic model that we can learn from as benefits our people, society, the located in the Xilingxia gorge— coursework, corporate site visits, academic and business profession- environment, and the economy,” were the first participants in a cultural experiences, and interac- als, and the program developed by said Wan Qizhou, division chief new executive education program tion with industry leaders. the Lally School allows for this of CTGPC’s construction depart- developed by the Lally School of “The need for an adequate sup- kind of global exchange.” ment. “The hands-on approach Management & Technology. ply of affordable, accessible, sus- Thomas Triscari, clinical asso- involved in the Lally School’s pro- The “Leadership for Innovation tainable energy is the overarching ciate professor of management gram allows us to engage in real- and Growth in the Energy Indus- issue of the 21st century. Achiev- and academic director for the istic and complex exercises in a try” program seeks to provide ing a sustainable global energy program, worked to introduce and number of areas that will help us business professionals in the ener- framework, capable of meeting connect the participants to life in to work on developing our leader-

gy industry with “best manage- the energy needs of citizens, with- America through activities and ship skill sets needed to effectively M

ment practices” by addressing out causing irreparable environ- projects inside and outside of the manage the future of our business ARK

leadership skills, emerging tech- mental damage, will require con- classroom. in today’s rapidly changing global M C C

nology, innovation, and large- tinued technological advances, “The Three Gorges Project has marketplace.” AR TY ATRENSSELAER

QUANTUM BIOLOGY Powerful Computer Models Reveal Key Biological Mechanism J OHN B . C

USING POWERFUL COMPUTERS TO MODEL thought experiment. ARNETT the intricate dance of atoms and mole- Until recently, scientists could not cules, Rensselaer researchers have apply quantum mechanics to biological /P OPULAR revealed the mechanism behind an systems because of the large numbers of

important biological reaction. In collabo- atoms involved. But the latest generation S ration with scientists from the Wadsworth of supercomputers, along with the devel- CIENCE Center of the New York State Depart- opment of efficient mathematical tools ment of Health, the team is working to to solve quantum mechanical equations, harness the reaction to develop a is making these calculations possible, INCUBATOR PROGRAM “nanoswitch” for a variety of applications, according to Philip Shemella, a doctoral from targeted drug delivery to genomics student in physics at Rensselaer and cor- “Best of What’s New” and proteomics to sensors. responding author of the current paper. The research is part of a burgeoning Quantum mechanics allows discipline called “quantum biology,” researchers to do things that can’t be CELERY LLC, A COMPANY IN RENSSELAER’S INCUBATOR which taps the skyrocketing power of done with classical physics, such as mod- Program, was selected as one of the winners of the today’s high-performance 2006 “Best of What’s New” award by POPULAR SCI- computers to precisely mod- ENCE magazine. Each year, the publication’s editors el complex biological review thousands of products in search of the top 100 processes. tech innovations of the year—breakthrough products In the February 2007 and technologies that represent a significant leap in issue of BIOPHYSICAL JOUR- their categories. Celery has developed a mail service NAL, the researchers device that allows users to send and receive e-mail describe a mechanism to without the use of a computer. explain how an intein— The company was founded in 2003 by Rensselaer a type of protein found in student Adam Wishneusky, currently a senior majoring single-celled organisms and in the Product Design and Innovation program (PDI). bacteria—cuts itself out of He serves as the company’s chief technology officer. the host protein and recon- Rensselaer graduate Neil Grabowsky ’04, who also nects the two remaining majored in the PDI program, is the vice president of strands. The intein breaks sales and customer service. Based on his research find- a protein sequence at two ings, Wishneusky decided to create the device in an points: first the N-terminal, effort to address a growing need among senior citizens and then the C-terminal. who were unfamiliar with computer technology, and therefore not included in e-mail exchanges between This aspect of the project, Intein crystal prior to protein splicing which is led by Saroj Nayak, family and friends. associate professor of physics, applied eling the way chemical bonds break and “We are delighted to be among a group of top tech innovators recognized for developing cutting-edge tech- physics, and astronomy at Rensselaer, form, or including the effect of proton nologies and products,” said Andrew Gibson, chief focuses on the C-terminal reaction. “tunneling”—allowing protons to move executive officer of Celery LLC. “We live in a net- The researchers revealed the details through energy barriers that normal logic worked world, and our mission in developing the device of the reaction mechanism by applying would deem impossible. is to include seniors and others in the process of com- the principles of quantum mechanics— The research was funded by a grant municating with family members and friends via e- a mathematical framework that from the National Science Foundation to mail, so that nobody is kept out of the loop.” describes the seemingly strange behavior Georges Belfort—principal investigator The award was presented to new products and tech- of the smallest known particles. For for the project and the Russell Sage Pro- nologies in 10 categories: Automotive, Aviation & example, quantum mechanics predicts fessor of Chemical and Biological Engi- Space, Computing, Engineering, Gadgets, General that an electron can be in two different neering at Rensselaer—and a grant from Innovation, Home Entertainment, Home Tech, Person- places at the same time; or that an imagi- the National Institutes of Health to Mar- al Health, and Recreation. Celery LLC was recognized nary cat can be simultaneously dead and lene Belfort at the Wadsworth Center. in the Computing category. The winners were featured alive, as suggested by one famous in the magazine’s December issue.

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 7 ATRENSSELAER

BIOLOGY Key Components of Insect Flight

RENSSELAER RESEARCHERS HAVE DISCOVERED A KEY molecular mechanism that allows tiny flies to whirl their wings at a rate of up to 1,000 times per second. Reported in the PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES (PNAS), the findings will help scientists gain a better understanding of how chemical energy is converted into muscle movements, such as the human heart muscle pumping blood. The research could lead to novel insights into heart dis- Architect’s rendering of the proposed East Campus Athletic Village. ease, and might ultimately serve in the development of gene therapies targeted toward correcting muta- MAKING A DIFFERENCE tions in proteins that detrimentally alter the speed at which heart muscle fibers contract. The research is focused on a key component of Renaissance Challenge muscle called myosin, the protein that powers muscle cell contraction. The Rensselaer team focused Heats Up Campaign its efforts on the fruit fly and asked a basic question: Why are fast mus- THE $1.4 BILLION RENAISSANCE AT which lasts until December 2007, all gifts cles fast and slow ones Rensselaer: The Campaign for Rensselaer of $100,000 or more that support the slow? They discovered Polytechnic Institute momentum continues “Five Frontiers” will count toward the that the reaction mecha- with the launch of the Renaissance Chal- $50 million goal. nism in insect flight mus- lenge. With more than $1.2 billion in gift Leading the way are Rensselaer cle on the molecular lev- commitments already secured, the cam- Trustees Jeff Kodosky ’70 and Tom Iovino el is different from how paign aims to raise the balance by June ’73, who have pledged an additional slower muscle types 2009 to support the initiatives of The $2 million each as unrestricted gifts to the work. Rensselaer Plan. endowment to support the Renaissance “Most research has Through the Renaissance Challenge, Challenge. Kodosky and his wife, Gail, focused on slower muscle a core group of leadership donors will con- were the first to support The Rensselaer fibers in larger ani- tribute up to $25 million, and they are chal- Plan with their earlier gift of $5 million mals,” says Douglas Swank, assistant professor of lenging others to join them by giving—with to establish a faculty constellation in biology and lead author of the paper. “By investigat- the goal to raise a total of $50 million to physics, information technology, and ing the fastest known muscle type, the mechanisms support the “Five Frontiers of Excellence” entrepreneurship. Iovino and his wife, that differentiate fast and slow muscle fiber types at Rensselaer. These include: scholarships Judy, also made an earlier commitment are more readily apparent.” and fellowships; constellations and faculty to support a career development profes- In general, myosin breaks down adenosine chairs; athletics and the East Campus sorship in civil engineering. triphosphate (ATP), the chemical fuel consumed by Athletic Village; teaching and research “Gail and I believe strongly in the muscles, and converts it into force and motion. To do in biotechnology and the life sciences; ‘renaissance’ happening at Rensselaer this, myosin splits ATP into two compounds, adenine diphosphate (ADP) and phosphate. Each compound and experimental media and the arts. across the campus,” says Kodosky. “You is released from myosin at different rates. As President Jackson described, “We have to come back to Troy and see it for In slow-muscle contraction, ADP release is the slow- focus in these areas because they move yourself—there is a real excitement today est step of the reaction, but in the fastest muscle us in new directions, they build on our about innovation and research, about fibers, Swank’s team has discovered that phosphate strengths, and they are undergirding. education, and about moving Rensselaer release is the slowest step of the reaction. Together with our classic strengths in forward in many new ways.” The project is supported by a three-year $240,000 engineering, science, architecture, manage- Iovino agrees. “As a civil engineer, I feel grant from the National Institutes of Health and a ment, humanities, and social sciences— a connection with the great engineers of four-year $260,000 grant from the American Heart and other new thrust areas in nano- the past, and as a trustee, I share Gail and Association. The Rensselaer team is conducting this technology, energy and the environment, Jeff’s excitement about where RPI is head- research in conjunction with scientists from the Uni- media and the arts, and IT and computa- ing. We know that giving to the endow- versity of Vermont. tion—we are transforming Rensselaer.” ment is going to make a difference for the Throughout the challenge period, students.”

8 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 ATRENSSELAER

SUPERCOMPUTING New Equipment Advances Frontiers of Computational Biology

RENSSELAER RESEARCHERS HAVE ance computing equipment. The project

S received a powerful new Blue Gene will help researchers develop critical ASAKI supercomputer from IBM. Awarded computational biology tools that operate A

SSOCIA under the company’s Shared University on the Blue Gene system, with the goal Research (SUR) program, the equip- of making these available to a broad TES ment will provide a resource for scien- community of users. Michael Symans (left) was interviewed by CNN Headline News. tists to gain experience with the Blue The project’s principal investigators Gene computing environment, while at Rensselaer are Angel Garcia, senior NATIONAL RECOGNITION also supporting a project to develop new constellation chaired professor in bio- simulation technologies for understand- computation and bioinformatics; Mark Rensselaer in the News ing biological systems. The work will Shephard, the Samuel A. Johnson ’37 help researchers develop algorithms and and Elisabeth C. Johnson Professor of software that run efficiently on Blue Engineering and director of the Scientif- NEWS OUTLETS ACROSS THE NATION HAVE CONTINUED Gene technology, which is a key part of ic Computation Research Center; to report on Rensselaer’s research and people. Rensselaer’s new Computational Center Shekhar Garde, the Elaine and Jack S. Rensselaer President Shirley Ann Jackson dis- for Nanotechnology Innovations. Parker Career Development Professor cussed what can be done to maintain U.S. strength As biology becomes a more quantita- in science and technology in a Dec. 13 question-and- tive field, researchers need new simula- answer interview with INVESTOR’S BUSINESS DAILY. tion technologies to understand how As biology becomes a more quantitative President Jackson also was featured in a December proteins, DNA, and other biological field, researchers need new simulation technologies to understand how proteins, DNA, DENVER POST story about the need for energy security. systems behave at the molecular level, and other biological systems behave at the CNN Headline News featured a live, three-minute according to the Rensselaer research molecular level. To be successful, these sim- interview with Michael Symans, associate professor team. The new SUR award is designed ulations must run on the latest generation of civil and environmental engineering. Symans dis- to help develop simulations for prototyp- of high-performance computing equipment. cussed the final test of the NEESWood experiment— ing medical devices in “virtual patients,” [ ] an international research project designed to safely with potential applications in targeted increase the height of woodframe buildings in active drug delivery systems such as drug elut- of Chemical and Biological Engineering; seismic zones. ing stents, transdermal patches, and and Kenneth Jansen, associate professor BUSINESSWEEK ONLINE interviewed David inhalers. of mechanical, aerospace, and nuclear Gautschi, dean of the Lally School of Management To be successful, these simulations engineering. & Technology, about the school’s executive education must run efficiently and effectively on The new Blue Gene system consists program for business professionals in the energy the latest generation of high-perform- of a single rack with 1,024 dual proces- industry, which provided 19 managers and engineers sor compute nodes, 32 I/O nodes, a from China Three Gorges Project Corporation with service node, a front-end node, and a four-month residency program at Rensselaer (see, multiple terabytes of SAN-based also, page 6). disk storage. This $2.23 million The distributed computer vision research of gift complements the $100 million Richard Radke, assistant professor of electrical, partnership between Rensselaer, computer, and systems engineering, was highlighted IBM, and New York state to cre- in a Dec. 2 story from THE ECONOMIST about new ate one of the world’s most pow- techniques to analyze two-dimensional pictures to erful university-based super- produce three-dimensional models of the world. computing centers. Jim Nondorf, vice president for enrollment, was recently featured on the front page of the WALL STREET JOURNAL in a story about early college admissions. Pulickel Ajayan, the Henry Burlage Professor of The Computational Center for Nanotechnology Innnovations Materials Science and Engineering, was featured in will feature Blue Gene super- an extensive interview about nanotechnology with THE computer technology. REDIFF newspaper, one of India’s largest news outlets.

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 9 ATRENSSELAER

DECISION SCIENCES AND ENGINEERING SYSTEMS Predicting Disaster Response

BY STUDYING THE ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE OF THE FED- eral Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the United States Coast Guard, as well as each organization’s response to last year’s Hurricane Katrina, a team of Rensselaer researchers has begun to develop a dynamic model of organizational processes with the capacity to predict how an organization’s culture will AR

affect its ability to respond to an extreme event. K In the wake of Katrina, a category 5 hurricane that ASTIK W

devastated much of the nation’s Gulf Coast region in S August 2005, three Rensselaer students traveled to Carbon nanotubes offer promising applications in fields ranging from electronics to biotechnology. New Orleans to collect documents that could provide them with information about how each organization reacted to any given NANOTECHNOLOGY task during the disaster. The recovered Techniques Pave Way for Carbon paper trail also provided the researchers Nanotubes in Electronic Devices with insight into a variety of cultural R

A and organizational CHEL A RENSSELAER TEAM RECENTLY REPORTED ing catalyst chemical vapor deposition” characteristics that

D two new techniques for placing carbon —involves heating a carbon-rich com- OWTY impacted both agen- nanotube patterns on metal surfaces pound at extremely high temperatures cies’ ability to act during the disaster. of just about any shape and size. Their until the material vaporizes. As the sys- Throughout the group’s research, a vast dichotomy methods could help overcome some of tem cools, carbon deposits directly on between the cultures of FEMA and the Coast Guard the key hurdles to using carbon nano- the metal surface in the form of nan- became increasingly evident, according to William tubes in computer chips, displays, sen- otube arrays. “Al” Wallace, professor of decision sciences and engi- sors, and many other electronic devices. In the single-step process, nanotubes neering systems and principal investigator on the The super-tiny cylinders offer promis- attach to the surface with much greater project. The researchers believe these cultural factors ing applications in fields ranging from strength, and excellent electrical con- ultimately dictated how well each organization was electronics to biotechnology, but since tact is established between the two able to carry out its function and responsibilities. many of these applications are based on materials. Chemical vapor deposition is Today Wallace’s team is constructing a computer the superior conductivity of carbon a high-temperature process, however, simulation that models an extreme disaster situation nanotubes, good contact between nano- which makes it incompatible with some where decision-makers are forced to shift their atten- tubes and conducting metal components sensitive electronic applications. tion from one dimension to another, responses often is essential. The Rensselaer team worked with a play out over long durations of time, and information As chip makers seek to continually staff research engineer in the Compo- demands vary between interacting response organi- increase computing power, they are nents Research Division at Intel Corpo- zations. looking to shrink the dimensions of chip ration to develop an alternative proce- They’ll then input a series of “what if” scenarios components to the nanometer scale. dure that mimics the way photographs related to organizational structure and culture into the Communication between components are printed from a film negative. They disaster model. Algorithms, or automated reasoning, becomes increasingly difficult at this first grow patterns of carbon nanotubes will predict how each organization’s constraints would incredibly small scale, making carbon on silicon surfaces using chemical vapor affect its ability to effectively react to an emergency. nanotubes a natural choice to replace deposition, and then the nanotubes are The organizational factors observed by the researchers metal wires, according to the transferred to metal surfaces that are while studying FEMA and the Coast Guard will be used to test the model and to set the parameters. researchers. Both of the newly devel- coated with solder—a metal alloy that is The researchers see the model as a diagnostic tool oped techniques could bring the use of melted to join metallic surfaces togeth- that could help local, state, and federal governments nanotubes as interconnects on computer. The nanotubes stick in the solder, shed light on the vulnerability of certain organization- er chips closer to reality. maintaining their original arrangement al features. The first technique—dubbed “float- on the new surface.

10 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 ATRENSSELAER

ENTREPRENEURSHIP Rewarding Ideas

FOUR STUDENT IDEAS WERE RECOGNIZED devised by senior science and technology as the winners of the fall 2006 “Change studies major Eben Dutcher Bayer; a the World Challenge” idea competition water purification device that boils bacte- during a celebratory breakfast held on ria-laden water while simultaneously K

Jan. 24 in the Heffner Alumni House. cooling already purified water, developed RIS Q

Created in 2005 by Rensselaer alumnus by junior mechanical engineering major U Sean O’Sullivan ’85, the competition is Samuel Harrington; and a proposal to A intended to support entrepreneurship create a form of refrigeration independ- Kelly (right) with Engineering Dean Alan Cramb and Professor Minoru Tomozawa, who was Kelly’s thesis adviser. education and inspire ideas to improve ent of electricity to help preserve food the human condition by providing a and medicines in Third World countries, $1,000 cash award for ideas that will created by freshman engineering students DAVIES MEDAL FOR ENGINEERING ACHIEVEMENT make the world a better place. Andrew Cunningham and Adam Kell. Each semester, students select a topic “Through his generosity, vision, and Honoring from a list of challenges to use science personal examples, Sean O’Sullivan has and/or engineering to improve human life, inspired the next generation of scholars Achievement and offer an innovative and sustainable to apply their skills for the good of solution to that challenge. Examples of mankind, and to become socially respon- the challenges include decreasing a RENSSELAER ALUMNUS JOHN E. KELLY III ’78 WAS nation’s energy use, increasing energy presented with the Davies Medal for Engineering generation, and improving the water con- “Through his generosity, vision, and per- Achievement from the Rensselaer Alumni Association servation, purification, and recycling sonal examples, Sean O’Sullivan has Dec. 7. The award recognizes alumni with a distin- inspired the next generation of scholars to efforts in underdeveloped countries. Sub- guished career of engineering achievement, public apply their skills for the good of mankind, missions are judged on both novelty and service, and technical and managerial accomplish- and to become socially responsible entre- sensibility, and up to 10 entries each ments. preneurs.” semester are selected to receive an award. [ ] In his role as senior vice president of technology Winning ideas from the fall 2006 and intellectual property at IBM, Kelly is responsible competition are: an invention that uses sible entrepreneurs,” said Robert Cher- for the company’s technical and innovation strategies reverse osmosis to remove viruses, bacte- now, vice provost for entrepreneurship. as well as companywide policies on open standards ria, and hard metals from the water in the “I applaud this group of winners for their and intellectual property. He played a leadership role Amazon, developed by freshman engi- innovative ideas and inventions—they in establishing the recent $100 million partnership neering students Michael Chung-Hua truly embody Rensselaer’s ‘Why not between Rensselaer, IBM, and New York state to Doo, Alexandra Lamparski, Christopher change the world?’ attitude.” create the Computational Center for Nanotechnology Byung Min, and Oliver Williams; a plan These winners also received the fund- Innovations. to use a naturally occurring, inert, and ing necessary to secure provisional Prior to assuming his current role in September plentiful mineral as a source of household patents for their ideas. 2004, Kelly was group executive for IBM’s Technolo- insulation for heating and cooling, gy Group. He joined IBM in 1980, after receiving a bachelor’s degree in physics from Union College in 1976, and a master’s degree in physics in 1978 and a doctorate in materials engineering in 1980, both from Rensselaer. Rensselaer established the Davies Medal for Engi- neering Achievement in honor of one of the Insti- tute’s most accomplished, active, and loyal alumni, Clarence E. Davies ’14. In April 2006 the medal was awarded to world-renowned biomedical scientist and engineer Van Mow ’62. K RIS Q U A RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 11 ATRENSSELAER

FROM THE ARCHIVES before them had—and they all just loved it.” The Roman Studies program was the vision Roman Studies Program Turns 25 of Patrick Quinn, a former dean of the School of Architecture, and became fully realized under the leadership of Quinn’s successor, David Haviland ’64. When it started, Rensse- laer was one of only two or three American IN 1981, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR PETER PARSONS one small van with Parsons serving as driver schools of architecture with international stud- and 10 architecture students traveled to Rome and tour guide. ies programs in Rome. for a semester of study in the Eternal City. The Although it cost less to live in Rome than Today the program has doubled in size, with inaugural year of the international study pro- it did to live in Troy during the program’s first the most recent Roman Studies class totaling gram was “started on a shoestring,” according years, the experience didn’t come without 22 architecture students. Just as Parsons did in to Parsons, who says for four months the stu- a few challenges. 1981, one professor dents studied design, history/theory, and the Students were from the Troy campus Italian language in a small, cramped studio responsible for find- Today the program has doubled in size, still accompanies the space furnished with enough desks for only ing their own hous- with the most recent Roman Studies class students to Rome each totaling 22 architecture students. Just as half the class. ing for the duration semester. Additionally, Parsons did in 1981, one professor from “The space was so small,” he recalls, “that of the semester, and Rome resident and the Troy campus still accompanies the whenever possible we held our lessons outside for learning to com- Rensselaer Clinical students to Rome each semester. in the street.” municate and inter- [ ] Professor of Architec- The first semester of the program was “fair- act with the city’s ture Cinzia Abbate- ly informal,” says Parsons, who taught the stu- residents. Gardner serves as a full-time coordinator for dents’ design studio, hiring an Italian to teach “They had to learn the language and adapt the Institute’s Roman Studies program, help- the language course and a historian to lecture to the Italian culture very quickly since they ing students arrange housing and adjust to the the group on Roman history. When the stu- were in such a small group,” says Parsons. Italian culture. dents were required to travel to central and “But the students never complained about For 25 years students have taken the same northern Italy to explore the varying architec- the demands of the program, because they were classes while studying abroad in Italy, ture, they all had to make the trip together in thrilled to be experiencing an opportunity none although the cramped classroom they were first taught in has fallen by the wayside. Today’s travelers are taught in spacious studios located in the upper rooms of the Palazzo Pio—a structure which some scholars believe sits upon the foundation of the ancient Roman tem- ple of Venus. This fall, a group of alumni, members of the Rensselaer community, and friends of the School of Architecture traveled to Italy in celebration of the program’s 25th anniversary. With the students acting as their tour guides, the travelers explored the exquisite architecture of the Eternal City. Today the School of Archi- tecture’s international study options have expanded to include programs in India and China.

12 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07

BREAKTHROUGHS Research Roundup

Improving Traffic Management A team of researchers is deploying an array of wire- less, solar-powered readers to monitor traffic flow and collect traffic data during the morning commute on busy Capital Region roads. The portable units, based on the same technology as E-ZPass tag readers, could eventually be used to provide valuable data for a variety of applications, from decreasing congestion in work zones to assisting emergency evacuations. The portable units could be particularly useful K for decreasing congestion and providing travel time RIS estimates in work zones, at special events, and dur- Q U ing emergency evacuations, and is funded through A a $3.9 million grant from the Federal Highway A sing-along in the Heffner Alumni House was one of the highlights of the Alumni MusicFest. Administration to Rensselaer’s Center for Infra- structure and Transportation Studies.

Improving Biological Separations ALUMNI MUSICFEST A team of Rensselaer researchers has received a four-year, $1 million grant from the National Gathering Hits High Notes Science Foundation to study improved methods for biological separations. Led by Ravi Kane, the Merck Associate Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering, the group plans to develop nanoscale NEARLY 75 ALUMNI WHO HAD PARTICIPAT- Arts Center (EMPAC) construction surfaces that actively reassemble in the presence of ed in music groups as students returned site. The Rensselaer Archives had pre- DNA, which could eventually lead to more efficient to a campus community that not only was pared a special display, “From A Cappella separation tools for genomics and proteomics. The pleased to see them; it was equally to Zip Serenaders,” on exhibit in the overarching goal is to understand how biological delighted to hear them. Folsom Library. molecules of all types move across the surface of Homecoming ’06 included the first- At a reception for “Friends of Joel Dol- lipid bilayers. ever Alumni MusicFest the weekend of ven,” plans were discussed for a fund-rais- Oct. 13-15. A highlight of the gathering ing effort to name the Conductor’s Suite New Molecular Pathway was a sing-along at the Heffner Alumni in the new EMPAC for Dolven who, as House, at which many former members longtime music director at Rensselaer, Rensselaer researchers have found a new pathway of the Glee Club, joined by alumni of instilled a lifelong love of music in genera- by which cells change their adhesive properties. the Pep Band and other organizations, tions of students. With a $1.4 million grant from the National Insti- sang forth the tunes they loved from their “Professor Joel Dolven was my mentor, tutes of Health, they plan to fill in the details behind college years. Rod Blumenau ’65, who friend, and counselor. By a wide margin, how cells decide to stick to a surface, which could had accompanied the Glee Club in the he influenced my young life more than lead to a better understanding of the importance of early ’60s, reprised his role at the key- anyone else on campus during those four this pathway to the physiology and development of board. years,” says Jim McCallister ’51. (For organisms. Principal Investigator Andrea Page- McCaw, assistant professor of biology, has focused The next day, in addition to cheering more memories of Joel Dolven, see page on matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)—proteins the Engineers in their match-up against 56.) that play a role in development and immunity. The Boston University, a sold-out Houston The music gathering was the brain- job of MMPs is to cleave other proteins that reside Field House applauded the alumni musi- child of Howard Henze ’69, a former Glee in the space in between cells. Page-McCaw has pre- cians’ performance of the Canadian and Club member. He says the group that viously identified a specific protein, called ninjurin, American national anthems and Rensse- attended was so enthused, they voiced that gets cut by MMP. Now she is working out the laer’s alma mater at the hockey game. support for making the MusicFest a semi- interplay between MMPs and ninjurin, with the goal The visiting alumni enjoyed campus annual event. of characterizing this previously unknown pathway presentations, including a private tour of “It was a wonderful success and met by which cells signal to each other. the Experimental Media and Performing every expectation I had!” says Henze.

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 13 FOCUSON:

Donald Fry: Engaging and Energizing Alumni

Donald Fry couldn’t have joined 90,000 alumni worldwide in the tion and build relationships with Advancement’s charge is to spread the Rensselaer community at a Rensselaer family. In his new role Rensselaer’s many constituencies. the word about the many changes more exciting time—construction as vice president for institute “I’m here to expand the culture that have taken place and to of the Experimental Media and advancement, he’s committed to of engagement with the institution increase the philanthropic invest- Performing Arts Center is pro- engaging and energizing each of and to help those outside of Rensse- ments made at Rensselaer. gressing at a dizzying pace; plans them about the evolution of their laer understand the great things “Rensselaer today is a very for the East Campus Athletic Vil- alma mater. happening here,” he says. “I see my different place than it was 20 or lage are under way; the spirit of Since arriving at Rensselaer in job as finding ways to reach out to 30 years ago. I want to make sure exploration, collaboration, and July, Fry—a retired Army major, people, including those who’ve lost everyone has an opportunity to discovery are alive in the labs on former director of advancement touch with the Institute; under- take a look at the strides the Insti- campus; and the goal of the Insti- for the College of Engineering at standing what’s meaningful, impor- tute has made and the positive tute’s fund-raising campaign, Purdue, and most recently vice tant, or unique about this place to direction it’s headed.” Renaissance at Rensselaer: The president for development and them; and then helping them think Fry says the campaign—which Campaign for Rensselaer Poly- advancement at Colorado State about the ways in which Rensselaer funds the initiatives laid out by THE technic Institute, has expanded University—has been a tireless could be a partner for them in a RENSSELAER PLAN—will require a from $1 billion to $1.4 billion. advocate for the Institute, working variety of collaborations.” campuswide effort in order to reach Fry says there are close to hard to open lines of communica- Fry says part of Institute its goal of $1.4 billion by 2009. Like most campaigns of this magnitude, the majority of Rensse- laer’s funding has come from gen- erous commitments and gifts from a small portion of donors, according to Fry. Now, he says, “is the time to make sure everyone under- stands what the campaign is about, because we’ll need everyone’s participation in order to reach our goal.” “The purpose of the campaign is to build excitement, create energy, and raise awareness,” he says. “The campaign keeps us in the national spotlight, it shows that we have the financial backing of our constituents, and allows us to fund new initiatives, which helps us move up in the national rankings and remain competitive.” Building lifelong relationships and encouraging alumni to get involved and excited about Rensse- laer’s evolution, Fry says, is just as important as meeting the campaign goal, funding new initiatives, and growing the endowment. “Under Dr. Jackson’s leadership the Institute has become a highly regarded, top-tier institution, and I know our alumni can take pride in their alma mater’s progress,” says Fry. “It’s not just about how much money we’ve raised or need to raise, it’s about encouraging our graduates to come back to campus, to get

M involved, and to be a part of the ARK phenomenal transformation that’s

M taking place at Rensselaer.” C C AR TY 14 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 MILESTONES

WEI ZHAO has been JOHN GOWDY, the Rittenhouse WILLIAM WALKER lade. Previous recipients include appointed dean Teaching Professor of Humanities has been appoint- P-I Brånemark, the originator of of the School of and Social Sciences, was appointed ed vice president modern oral implants, and former Science. Prior to treasurer of the International Soci- for strategic com- Director of the National Institute joining Rensselaer, ety for Ecological Economics munications and of Dental and Craniofacial Zhao served as (ISEE). The ISEE facilitates external relations Research Harold Slavkin. senior associate understanding between economists effective Feb. 1, vice president for research at Texas and ecologists and the integration 2007. Walker is responsible for LINDA LAYNE, A&M University. In 2005, Zhao of their thinking into a trans-disci- managing this new Institute divi- the Alma and became director of the Division of pline aimed at developing a sus- sion, created to advance pubic H. Erwin Hale ’30 Computer and Network Systems at tainable world. understanding of and advocacy for Teaching Professor the National Science Foundation. Rensselaer, and to ensure robust in Humanities and Last year, his division awarded SHIRLEY ANN communication with the Institute’s Social Sciences, research grants of more than $190 JACKSON, president constituencies. Walker was most has received the million, comprising 80 percent of of Rensselaer, has recently vice president for public Council on Anthropology of Repro- total federal research funding in the been elected a fel- affairs at Dartmouth College, and duction’s (CAR) “Enduring Influ- area of computer and network sys- low of the Ameri- was responsible for public relations ence” book prize for TRANSFORMA- tems. Zhao received his bachelor’s can Association programs for the institution, as TIVE MOTHERHOOD (NYU Press, degree in physics from the Shaanxi for the Advance- well as overseeing media relations, 1999), a collection of case studies Normal University in 1977. He ment of Science. She was cited for publications, periodicals, Web site that she edited. Layne received the earned a master’s degree in com- “her exceptional support of nation- development, conferences and spe- honor at the CAR meeting in San puter science in 1982 and a doctoral education efforts, for her out- cial events, internal communica- Jose, Calif., in November. ate in computer science in 1986, standing contributions to the field tions, community relations, and both from the University of Massa- of physics, and for her exemplary photography. Walker received his WARREN CADY chusetts. national leadership.” President bachelor’s degree in journalism STOKER ’33,of Jackson also was appointed by the from the University of Missouri. Manchester, PULICKEL AJAYAN, National Governors Association to Conn., died on the Henry Burlage a 17-member task force to guide GWO-CHING WANG, Nov. 16, 2006. Professor of Mate- the INNOVATION AMERICA initiative. department chair Stoker enjoyed rials Science and The task force brings together a and professor of a long career at Engineering, was bipartisan group of governors and physics, applied Rensselaer, in which he held many named by SCIEN- members of the academic and busi- physics, and positions. A year after graduating TIFIC AMERICAN ness communities to oversee efforts astronomy, has from the Institute, he became a magazine as a Research Leader to strengthen the competitive posi- been elected a professor in Rensselaer’s electrical within the 2006 “Scientific Ameri- tion of the United States in the fellow of the American Association engineering department, a position can 50”—the magazine’s presti- global economy by improving the for the Advancement of Science he served in until becoming head of gious annual list recognizing out- nation’s capacity to innovate. (AAAS). She was cited for “distin- the computer lab in 1952. In 1955 standing acts of leadership in sci- guished contributions to the fields he moved to Hartford, Conn., to ence and technology. He also LINDA SCHADLER, of surface and overlayer phase become founder of the Hartford received the MRS Medal from the professor of mate- transitions and dynamics of thin Graduate Center. Stoker served in Materials Research Society. rials science and film growth using electron diffrac- that position for two years before engineering, has tion.” President Jackson and becoming associate dean of the FRANK SPEAR, professor and chair of been elected a fel- Wang are two of 449 fellows elect- Hartford school in 1957; he later earth and environmental sciences, low of ASM Inter- ed this year in recognition of their was appointed vice president of the has been elected a fellow of the national, a world- scientifically or socially distin- Hartford Graduate Center, and in American Geophysical Union wide network of materials engi- guished efforts to advance science 1975 he was appointed president. (AGU). This designation is con- neers and scientists dedicated to or its applications, according to In 1976, Stoker was appointed ferred upon not more than 0.1 per- advancing industry, technology, AAAS. president emeritus and trustee of cent of all AGU members in any and applications of metals and the Hartford Graduate Center. The given year, and new fellows are materials. Schadler was cited JOHN BRUNSKI, professor of bio- Hartford Graduate Center—now chosen by a Committee of Fellows. for “outstanding contributions medical engineering, received the called Rensselaer at Hartford— According to the organization, the to understanding of the nano and 2006 Jerome M. and Dorothy celebrated its 50th anniversary in AGU is “a worldwide scientific micromechanical behavior of poly- Schweitzer Research Award from May 2006. During the ceremony community that advances, through mer composites, and for educa- the Greater New York Academy of Stoker was awarded the Rensselaer unselfish cooperation in research, tional leadership in materials sci- Prosthodontics. He was the 39th at Hartford 50th Anniversary the understanding of Earth and ence and engineering.” recipient of the award and only the Medal. space for the benefit of humanity.” third engineer to receive the acco-

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 15

Rensselaer programs inspire the next generation to pursue careers in engineering, technology, math, and the sciences. Pipeline to the future

n a recent day during an after-school program at Troy’s Doyle Mid- dle School, two seventh-grade girls cheerfully greeted a visitor, eagerly explaining their newest robotic creation, “the plug,” a nano Odevice used to repair blood vessels. Of course, the colorful model, made from child-favorite LEGO® plastic bricks along with the toymaker’s sophisticated computer technology, wasn’t small enough to fit inside an actual vein or artery to plug up tissue damage. But the imagination and the students’ ability to grasp the concept behind the nanorobot model, and their determination to build it, constitute the epitome of what Bill Clark has worked to accomplish in his eight years as a technology education teacher at the middle school. “These two girls took it upon themselves to conduct research via the Internet and come up with what they thought would be a good solution to a medical problem using nanotechnology. I was amazed,” says Clark, who coached the two girls along with six other students as a team for the international LEGO FIRST Nano Quest Challenge. FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded by inventor and entrepreneur Dean Kamen. In early December, after months of preparation and practice, the students joined 23 teams of youngsters ages 9 to 14 from around the Capital Region to compete in the regional competition that took place at Rensselaer’s Darrin Communications Center. The finalists will attend the FIRST LEGO League World Festival at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta in April. BY JODI ACKERMAN FRANK M ARK M C C AR TY RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 17

LIGHTING THE SPARK Rensselaer’s Center for Initiatives in Pre-Col- adds that the introduction of Vex technology provides the next level lege Education (CIPCE) has adopted the event in partnership with of a continuous K-12 pipeline effort. General Electric for the last three years to spark an interest in mathe- For the LEGO program, Rensselaer undergraduates work in local matics, science, and engineering among local middle school students. schools and Boys and Girls Clubs to facilitate after-school robotics activ- The competition is one of a number of K-12 pipeline programs across ities. While there, they mentor students on how to design, construct, campus that build upon the Institute’s traditional strengths to foster and program robotics to accomplish engineering challenges, and at the innovations in interactive learning, educational technologies, and end of the fall term, these students get to test their skills with one anoth- teacher education. er during the FIRST LEGO League Tournament. “What we do is take what Rensselaer does so well in science, tech- “These and other K-12 programs that Rensselaer offers are opportu- nology, and engineering design and transfer that to the elementary and nities to engage students in technology and science,” Schoch says. “They secondary classrooms,” says Lester Rubenfeld, professor of mathemati- see it, feel it, and get immediate feedback that they can take back to the cal sciences and director of CIPCE. drawing board. That’s something they’re not getting enough of in the For the Nano Quest Challenge, the student teams designed, built, and classroom.” programmed a set of LEGO MINDSTORMS™ robots to explore the uses of nanotechnology. The teams focused on areas in which nanotechnolo- THE QUIET CRISIS For several years President Shirley Ann Jackson has gy could have or is already having an impact, such as medicine, comput- been warning of a looming gap in the science and engineering work- ers, and the environment. The robots were made from standard LEGO force, driven primarily by three factors. Those who responded to Presi- parts and a computerized unit that controls the motors and sensors. dent John F. Kennedy’s historic call to action following the launch of the

“If we are to succeed in closing this emerging gap, all of us must get engaged in the effort to excite, encourage, and prepare young people to pursue careers in science, math, and engineering,” President Jackson says. “We must have a cadre of teachers and mentors at all levels who have the necessary skills to help these students excel. And it must be a priority. Society must value science and those who do it.”

The programs were written by the students using the ROBOLAB™ Sputnik satellite and became the scientists and engineers whose work software developed by LEGO and Tufts University that incorporates a spe- has fueled the U.S. economy for a generation are on the verge of retiring cial version of the software LabVIEW created by Rensselaer trustee Jef- in record numbers. As a nation of immigrants, the United States has frey Kodosky ’70, co-founder of National Instruments, who has been an relied on students, professors, and researchers who came from abroad enthusiastic supporter of CIPCE’s K-12 robotic efforts. to study and remain, but in a “flattening” world offering expanding oppor- “Building robotics is a great way to inspire students, boys as well as girls, tunities, their numbers are decreasing. In addition, not enough young to learn science, technology, engineering, and math,” Kodosky says. “By people in this country are being excited and prepared to pursue careers making software that is accessible to our young students, we at National in science and engineering. These factors, in combination with the Instruments are learning how to make our professional tools even easier decreasing federal commitment to funding basic research, are what Pres- to use. And, working on robotic toys is just plain fun—for students and ident Jackson describes as the “quiet crisis.” for us as the developers.” “It is quiet because it takes decades to educate a scientist, mathe- The same day as the LEGO regional contest, another smaller, but matician, or an engineer, so the true impact unfolds only gradually, over equally as engaging competition took place between Rensselaer sopho- time,” says President Jackson. “It is a crisis because the discoveries and mores and high school students nearby in the George M. Low Center innovations of our science and engineering workforce create the new for Industrial Innovation. About 150 students competed against one opportunities and industries which keep our economy thriving, provide another in “The Game,” which incorporated the Vex Robotic Design for our security, and mitigate the global scourges that breed suffering and System (see, also, page 2). The technology is similar to LEGO’s, but the global instability.” programming is more advanced, and the robots are larger, made of metal, President Jackson has been actively involved with other academic, and have more motors and sensors. corporate, and government leaders to bring national attention to this When Rubenfeld learned about the Vex competition, he approached looming crisis. Numerous reports and policy papers—including from the the organizers, Larry Ruff, systems engineer and laboratory supervisor, National Academies, the Coun- and Paul Schoch, associate professor of electrical, computer, and systems cil on Competitiveness, and the (Top) In the spring, 11th grade girls engineering, to investigate whether Vex would be a good technology to AAAS—have documented the took part in the 10th annual Design incorporate in a summer program to attract students in grades 8-10. problem, and detailed recom- Your Future Day. (Bottom) During the “So far Vex been a good fit with all the teams, and I think it would be mendations for change which summer, nearly 75 middle school stu- appropriate for the younger students as well,” says Ruff, who incorpo- include significant enhance- dents came to campus to take part in rated the contest as part of his Introduction to Engineering Design course. ments in math and science edu- CIPCE’s LEGO Robotics Engineering Schoch, who also is involved with CIPCE’s LEGO Robotics Program, cation and investments in Academy. A U Q RIS

18 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 K research. Legislative proposals based on recommendations in these reports have been introduced by bipartisan coalitions in the Congress and by President George W. Bush. “The national conversation on this issue is now engaged,” President Jackson says. “Now it is time to turn rhetoric into reality. The clock is ticking. It is time to implement solutions, and those solutions must come from all sectors—academic, business, and government—and from all levels—national, state, and local.” She urges a national focus on energy research as a focal point to excite and encourage greater interest in science and engineering careers. “Just as President Kennedy galvanized the nation in response to the Soviet launch of Sputnik, so too could the President around energy security,” she says. “Energy security is the space race of this millennium.” “If we are to succeed in closing this emerging gap, all of us must get engaged in the effort to excite, encourage, and prepare young people to pursue careers in science, math, and engineering,” President Jackson says. “We must have a cadre of teachers and mentors at all levels who have the necessary skills to help these students excel. And it must be a priority. Society must value science and those who do it.” Closing the gap, President Jackson argues, also will require a national commitment to develop more of the talent of all citizens, especially what she calls the “underrepresented majority”—women, minorities, and those with disabilities who traditionally have been a disproportionately (Top to bottom) LEGO Robotics sum- small part of the nation’s science, mer camps, Exploring Engineering Day, engineering, and technology work- Black Family Technology Awareness force, but who now comprise the Day, and Design Your Future Day are demographic majority in the U.S. part of Rensselaer’s effort to interest “There has been a huge demo- young people in pursuing occupations graphic shift in our country, with in the fields of science and engineering. women and minorities represent- ing the new face of America. Along with this new reality, we have this enormous amount of talent that hasn’t been tapped,” says Kenneth Dur- gans, vice provost for the Office of Institute Diversity, which hosts Rens- selaer’s annual Black Family Technology Awareness Day. Earlier this year, more than 450 area students and their families participated in the event, which featured 19 workshops. Led by Rensselaer professors, students, and community organizations, the workshops included building roller coasters, creating a hot air balloon using household items, hands-on interactive sessions exploring engineering and chemistry science experiments, and a CIPCE robotics session. “This is a special day designed to help eliminate the science and technology gap for members of the minority community,” Durgans says. “By showcasing science and technology in a fun and interactive way, we hope to motivate more minority students to pursue careers in these fields.”

WOMAN POWER Women now outnumber men in undergraduate col- legiate enrollment and, together with minorities, make up more than half the U.S. workforce. Yet, they remain underrepresented in science and engineering careers. “This really is a societal issue,” says Barbara Ruel, director of women in engineering and diversity at Rensselaer. “We need to spread the message that women can perform equally as well as men in science, technology, and especially in the engineering fields.” Ruel has worked to effectively spread that message by recruiting and retaining women students, and by developing engaging programs that

20 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07

help them develop the skills and self-confidence they need to success- The students take part in lab exercises, discussions, and field trips, and fully enter and stay in these disciplines. take classes in core disciplines, from electrical engineering and com- Ruel oversees the popular “Design Your Future Day.” Established in puting to leadership and career development. 1997, the program introduces 11th-grade girls with high aptitude and “The focus is really on trying to develop a means to not only identify interest in math and science to a variety of academic degree programs potential applicants for Rensselaer, but to lay a foundation for pursuing and career paths in engineering, science, architecture, and technology. careers in the sciences and engineering,” says Dean of Students Mark More than 120 11th-grade girls from around the Northeast take part Smith, who oversees OMSA and served as its director during the 1990s. in the day’s workshops, led by Rensselaer faculty, staff, and graduate stu- Smith has been at the forefront of the Institute’s curriculum develop- dents. Last year, the program featured more than a dozen fun and inter- ment for pre-college and pipeline initiatives and has established many active workshops, including the “Body Bag” in which students learned how corporate and professional contacts for minority students seeking intern- scientists and engineers can impact human health and quality of life. The ships, co-ops, and job placement. students also participated in the “Engineering at Rensselaer is Sweeeeet!” In partnership with the New York State Education Department, OMSA workshop, where they learned how to assemble a box of candy in the also established the Rensselaer Science and Technology Entry Program Advanced Manufacturing Laboratory, and saw firsthand different man- (STEP) in 1986. Through STEP, 150 underrepresented and economical- ufacturing processes including robotics and automation, plastic injec- ly disadvantaged 7th- through 12th-grade students in five area middle tion molding, three-dimensional printing, and water-jet cutting. and high schools participate in a range of after-school enrichment activ- “Rensselaer recruits 10 to 12 young women annually from this one-day ities, summer programs, research labs on college campuses and industry, program,” Ruel says. and career development experiences. The same students have the oppor- Each February during National Engineers Week more than 250 Girl tunity to attend year after year to advance their skills and knowledge. Scouts and Boy Scouts take part in “Exploring Engineering Day,” which “Rensselaer is spearheading an effort to build a national network of K- offers myriad hands-on learning activities. 12 pipeline partnerships with organizations that are focused on the iden- “Since its inception, the program has increased in both size and diver- tification, nurturing, and educational development of women and sity,” Ruel says. “This year, children participated in a variety of activi- underrepresented minority groups in order to facilitate their access to ties that covered a wide range of disciplines, including electrical, higher education in the fields we offer,” says Eddie Ade Knowles, vice pres- aeronautical, and materials engineering. ident for student life. “And, we are reaching out to our alumni to become When Exploring Engineering Day was first established in 1997, most- active participants in this national effort as mentors and as active ly boys participated. Since 2000, participation has doubled and half of recruiters of talented high school students.” the registrants have been girls. Last year, the Scouts participated in activities such as the “Gak,” a lab exercise in which they combined materi- A NEW VISION Alyssa Pasquale ’05 recalls a time several years ago when als to witness chemical reactions and analyze material properties. she figured out, with a little help, how to connect a clapper circuit for a “Seeing the creativity and imagination that the kids bring to the activ- light switch. The experience was one of Pasquale’s first glimpses into ities is inspiring,” says Tara Clancy, environmental engineering major the real world of engineering as an Averill Park high school senior par- and member of the Society of Women Engineers, one of several student ticipating in New Visions. The program is a partnership between CIPCE clubs that helped organize the event. “Working with the young students and Questar III (formerly called BOCES, serving Rensselaer, Greene, at Exploring Engineering Day also reminds me of why I first became and Columbia counties) that provides hands-on, university-level expe- interested in engineering. I love engineering, and events like this are rience to high school students considering a college major in math, engi- great opportunities to share the fun that I have solving engineering prob- neering, information technology, or science. lems with others.” “When I was in high school, I had no idea what engineering was,” Ruel believes programs like this are part of Rensselaer’s mission. “It’s says Pasquale who, because of her experience in New Visions, stayed a our job as higher education institutions to work with industry to help semester ahead in earning her bachelor’s degree in electrical engineer- these youngsters learn about emerging technologies and to teach them ing at Rensselaer, where she also recently completed her master’s degree about what engineers do,” she says. “New technologies create the need in the same field. for new jobs and job skills. Guidance counselors and parents may not “Through New Visions, I discovered that engineering wasn’t just one be familiar with cutting-edge careers, new emerging technologies, and discipline,” she adds. “I learned about each type of engineering through soil the interdisciplinary research that goes on at the best universities.” analysis labs, fiber optic and laser experiments, working with electronics, and other activities. The experience helped me decide that I definitely A RENSSELAER TRADITION RENEWED The idea that higher educa- did want to be an engineer, and what sort of engineering I wanted to study.” tion can play an important role in helping students attain the skills and Up to 15 high school seniors are selected for each New Visions class. knowledge they need for careers in engineering, science, and technol- On weekday mornings during the school year, the students are exposed ogy is nothing new for Rensselaer. Some of the Institute’s earliest pipeline to labs and coursework, tour local companies, and interact with numer- programs for underrepresented and underserved groups have been in ous professionals in various fields of work. existence for decades and continue to be run largely through the Office “New Visions gives students the opportunity to gain valuable insight of Minority Student Affairs (OMSA). into careers and research. And, as with all Rensselaer’s K-12 pipeline PREFACE, one of the oldest programs, established nearly 30 years programs, it gives our young people a tremendous opportunity to see a ago, is a highly selective, all-expense-paid, two-week residential sum- future in technology and science careers they never could have imagined mer program for talented high school sophomores entering 11th grade. before,” Rubenfeld says. “That’s Rensselaer’s ultimate mission.”

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 21

Unraveling Two Rensselaer researchers team up to conduct groundbreaking biotechnology research—and to attract more young people to their fields.

Wilfredo Colón and Christopher Bystroff make a formidable research team, bringing together their individual expertise in biochemical techniques and computer modeling to better understand why proteins sometimes become trapped in a specific structure—knowledge that could lead to early detection for diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and Alzheimer’s.Colón, associate professor of chemistry and chemical biology,and Bystroff, associate professor of biology, are prime examples of the multidisciplinary research teams supported by the Center for Biotechnology and Inter- disciplinary Studies. “This is exactly what the biotechnology center was intended to do,” says Robert Linhardt, the Ann and John H. Broadbent Jr. ’59 Senior Constella- tion Professor of Biocatalysis and Metabolic Engineering and acting director of the center. “To bring groups from different disciplines together.” Rensselaer’s emerging biotechnology enterprise seeks to break down the traditional walls between researchers.“It’s interesting how few biologists really talk to chemists,” Linhardt says. “This way of working that we have now at Rensselaer basically cuts down those barriers.” Colón and Bystroff are extending their collaboration to helping attract and mentor the next gener- Proteins ation of researchers—especially young people from underrepresented groups in the sciences and academia. Students speak highly of the researchers as teachers and colleagues whose talent, energy,and commitment to leading-edge discovery is drawing promising

undergraduates and graduate students to Rensselaer. BY JILL U. ADAMS

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 23

Learning the structure of proteins provides clues to their function. And yet, proteins are by no means static creatures. They fold and unfold, they glom on to one another and let go. Dancing, tumbling, and partnering with others, these are dynamic, interactive molecules. All the time, they obey the laws of physics.

THE PROTEIN DANCE Proteins are essential to life. “Too fast,” says Bystroff. “And once it starts, it does- They participate in every biological process in the n’t stop.” It’s extremely cumbersome to analyze using body. They are carriers like hemoglobin delivering biochemical methods and even then, one only gets oxygen to every cell, enzymes like DNA polymerase a blurry picture. aiding gene replication, structural elements like actin “Scientists have no clue of what the details are,” and myosin responsible for muscle contraction, sig- says Bystroff. “And that’s my justification for doing naling molecules like insulin and endorphins, and it computationally. We have a very detailed look at antibodies that target foreign substances in the body what’s happening in the computer. And the trick is, for destruction. to prove to people that what we’re doing in the com- Learning the structure of proteins provides clues puter is the same thing that’s happening in the cell.” to their function. And yet, proteins are by no means Meanwhile, Colón is interested in proteins that static creatures. They fold and unfold, they glom on misfold. He seeks to understand the fundamentals to one another and let go. Dancing, tumbling, and of protein folding and has zeroed in on the issue of partnering with others, these are dynamic, interac- stability. tive molecules. All the time, they obey the laws of Most proteins spend most of the time in their fold- physics. Despite the remarkable diversity in func- ed state, says Colón, but they’re in equilibrium, going tions of which proteins are capable, they have a major back and forth. “During that fraction of a second that liability—they are marginally stable. Stable proteins they may be unfolded, that’s where they could mis- would be highly valued in a variety of industrial appli- fold,” he says. If the misfolded state is more stable cations—think insulin with a long shelf life. than the folded state, then that’s going to be the pre- It’s easier than ever to decipher the linear sequence ferred form—and likely a problem. Thermodynam- of proteins—imagine a string of pearls, each bead an ics are one factor; kinetics (i.e. how fast?) also plays a amino acid. The challenge for researchers is deter- role. “Is it faster to fold this way or that way?” he asks. mining the three-dimensional shape that proteins Proteins that are prone to misfolding are often trapped will assume in the cell—picture that pearl necklace in their native state so that they cannot unfold at all in a velvet pouch. Figuring out protein conforma- during their lifetime in the cell. This property devised tions—both good ones and bad ones—will answer by nature is known as kinetic stability. so many important biological questions and improve Mistakes in protein folding are increasingly seen the practice of medicine. in neurological disorders, like Alzheimer’s and Lou “I’ve been looking at proteins now for 20 years,” Gehrig’s diseases. Misfit proteins are biological mark- says Bystroff. “I was always curious about how these ers for these diseases at the very least, and many things got into their convoluted state.” researchers are seeking to understand whether they Both Colón and Bystroff have received National have a causative role as well. Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Awards to sup- Colón compares a protein to a toddler to illustrate port their protein folding research and educational the difference between thermodynamic stability and activities. kinetic stability. “If you have a toddler in a room with Protein folding has been a major research field for lots of toys and the door is open, chances are the tod- some time, with tens of thousands of published arti- dler is going to stay, even though he may briefly leave cles in the scientific literature—hundreds this year the room,” he says. “That’s an example of a ther- alone—and numerous well-funded laboratories modynamically stable toddler. He’s there—not around the world. Bystroff has found his own niche because he can’t get out—but because he wants to by seeking out a less-studied problem—unfolding. stay there.”

M However, protein unfolding happens fast. Put a gate across the door to keep the toddler out ARK of trouble and “then he’s kinetically stable,” Colón M C

C At left, Christopher Bystroff and Wilfredo Colón. says. “It doesn’t matter if he cries and wants to get AR TY

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 25 out. He’s kinetically trapped. Sometimes nature must put of protein kinetic stability. The gel becomes almost like a Last summer, 24 interns a ‘gate’ on proteins, an energy barrier to keep them out of fingerprint of kinetically stable proteins in human plasma.” from the Howard Hughes trouble (i.e. misfolding). If one could figure out how nature “We have now what we didn’t have before, what nobody Medical Institute (HHMI) does this, we may be able to use the same strategy to con- had before: a list of kinetically stable proteins with known Minority Undergraduate fer kinetic stability upon proteins.” 3-D structures,” says Colón. “Chris is analyzing the struc- Research Program in Bio- The collaboration with Bystroff happened when Colón ture of these, looking for common features that may be science and Biotechnology found a way to identify kinetically stable proteins and need- responsible for kinetic stability.” did research in 18 labs on ed some way to characterize their common features. Bystroff, Proteins that resist unfolding are a small minority in the Rensselaer campus. The with his expertise in computer modeling and his drive to nature. “Proteins are in the stomach, in Yellowstone gey- program is funded through a make his models relevant, was the perfect partner. sers, harsh environments like that,” says Bystroff, describ- $1.2 million, four-year “It’s a really great situation to have somebody doing ing environments so harsh, it’s hard to imagine any dancing grant in the Undergraduate experimental work in the same area that we’re doing com- molecule surviving. Biological Sciences Educa- putational work,” says Bystroff. As an expert in protein unfolding, Bystroff is discover- tion Program from HHMI.

THE TWO-STEP With the wide variety of sizes, shapes, and charged characteristics of proteins, no one would think there’s a simple way to categorize the molecules based on their dynamic properties. But that’s exactly what Colón has developed. Adapting an everyday method that is used time and again in biology labs, Colón has fashioned an assay, a reg- imented laboratory procedure that effectively separates kinetically stable proteins from all others. In a paper published two years ago with then graduate student Marta Manning ’03, Ph.D. ’06, Colón showed that proteins that don’t easily unfold in nature were also resistant to a common laboratory treatment. When proteins are unfolded or denatured, they can be sorted by running an electric current across a length of gel. Colón developed a simple assay on a gel that involves com- paring the migration of heated and not heated protein sam- ples containing a common chemical denaturing agent known as SDS. Most proteins migrated to the same loca- tion on the gel regardless of whether or not the sample was heated. In contrast, kinetically stable proteins exhibited a slower migration when the sample was not heated. At first, Colón used purified proteins to make his case that kinetically stable proteins were resistant to unfolding with SDS treatment. Now, with one clever quarter turn of his gel, Colón has streamlined his procedure so that proteins, even messy mixtures of thousands of proteins, can be processed via a high-throughput assay, to identify those proteins that are kinetically stable. With this method, he can screen the protein soup of an entire organism, as he has recently done with the bacteri- um E. coli, for kinetically stable proteins. Identifying the proteins that were sorted involved a series of biochemical methods and the help of Qishan Lin, director of the Uni- versity at Albany’s proteomics facility. Ultimately, Colón wants to use this method with human plasma where it might be used to diagnose medical conditions. “For example,” Colón says, “we hope to be able to identify whether any disease may be linked to the loss or gain

26 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 ly, great sense of humor, very open to students. He was an excellent mix of someone that let students work inde- pendently, but also offered support [when needed].” Man- ning is now doing postdoctoral work at Penn State. Bystroff also inspires the next generation. “Chris always has a bunch of undergrads working for him,” Zaki says. “They go on to do Ph.D.s or master’s, either at RPI or else- where. From a training point of view, that’s a really great thing.” A summer internship program seems a natural exten- sion of this training mindset. Colón and Bystroff have taken the existing program—funded by an educational grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and directed by Act- ing Provost Robert Palazzo—to the next level. Not only are they seeking undergraduates who are interested in research experience, they are intent on reaching students who might otherwise have little exposure to academic science at a research institution. “I have enjoyed working with Freddy and Chris on ing how these proteins are kept folded. “I categorized things launching an important effort to recruit exceptional women according to the topological features these proteins had,” and minority students to Rensselaer for an undergraduate he says. Categories include “tucked in,” where ends of the research experience,” says Palazzo. “This program, funded chain were buried like a tab, “latches,” a long piece of chain by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, provides support that goes around the molecule like a belt, and “blocking.” for a high-quality research experience for truly exception- “If you have a box that can only open one way and it’s al and gifted undergraduates from diverse backgrounds. packed up against another box,” like a hinge that can’t move, Already some of these students have shown interest in apply- “I call that blocking,” Bystroff says. ing to our own graduate programs and I am sure that many “I’m interested in being able to design proteins,” Bystroff decided to attend graduate school somewhere after their says. “Proteins are incredibly flexible molecules,” for which experience at Rensselaer.” there are lots of industrial uses. To look at a protein and “We want to attract the best students we can,” says Colón. be able to make that protein kinetically stable, “it’s sort Too often, he says, students have to make their decisions of natural nanotechnology.” based on paper or what they see on the Internet. “The idea For all his modeling and computational expertise, Bystroff was to bring them here so they can experience what it is to is not afraid to rely on his visual sense. “He does want to be at Rensselaer,” he says. “We all felt that would be a very picture things,” says Mohammed Zaki, an associate profes- effective recruiting strategy.” sor of computer science, who has worked with Bystroff on Their efforts have caused a ripple effect as fellow faculty modeling protein unfolding pathways projects. “It’s a very in the biotechnology center take undergraduate interns into hard problem, a grand challenge, so one really needs all the their laboratories—with the goal of identifying potential ingenuity that we can get.” graduate students before the formal application process. “The good thing about Chris is he has the ability and the “This has been a wonderful thing that they’ve done,” says skills to handle both the wet lab side of things as well as the Linhardt. “I had two students in my laboratory last summer. computational side of things,” says Zaki. “He’s pretty well Both had very successful projects and I expect I will pub- diversified in his interests. It allows him to collaborate with lish papers with both of them as co-authors.” Freddie on the dynamic side and with me on the data-min- For the students themselves—many from Puerto Rico or ing side.” historically black colleges—a fascinating and challenging new world awaits, as the internships give them direct expe- INSPIRING FUTURE RESEARCHERS Colón and Bystroff are rience with the realities and the demands of experimental not only interested in creating scientific results, but also in research—all with the goal of attracting them to careers in nurturing the next generation of scientists. the sciences. Marta Manning began her career in Colón’s lab as an Exposing students to the life of a researcher in the sci- undergraduate volunteer and then was welcomed to stay ences is the first step toward expanding the pool of young on as a graduate student. “He is an excellent person to work people who choose careers in these fields. “We hope that with,” Manning says of her former mentor. “He is very friend- we tempt them to take research paths,” Linhardt says.

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 27

A Stephen Chung ’91 is bringing modern VID L

. R design to historic Boston—and architectural Y AN savvy to a television audience. /B OSTON G LOBE

STEPHEN CHUNG ’91 knows that beneath the surface of the buttoned-down, traditional style of Boston lies a yearning for modern design that will bring the city’s historic structures into the 21st century. | As the design director of Urbanica, a Boston- based design/development firm, he’s helping to spearhead a modern design revolution in the city—breathing life into Boston’s deteriorating buildings by transforming the underutilized spaces into icons of modern living. | A dramatic conversion of Boston’s former D-4 police station (left)—built in the 1930s—into 26 luxury residential units is currently the firm’s most high-profile project. Called YooD4, the undertaking is a collaborative effort between Urbanica and world- renowned designer Philippe Starck, best known for his highly acclaimed hotel designs, including The Hudson in New York City, The Mondrian in Los Angeles, and The Delano in Miami, as well as restaurants, retail

spaces, and products for the home. BY AMBER CLEVELAND Urbanica’s most high-profile project, YooD4. URBAN PIONEER RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 29 “ESSENTIALLY URBANICA TAKES OVER BUILDINGS IN DISREPAIR, RESTORES THE OUTWARD HISTORIC SHELL, AND INFUSES THEM WITH MODERN DESIGN. IT’S A FORMULA THAT WORKS REALLY WELL IN BOSTON.”

Chung is designing the work being done to “There were a lot of young people in Boston same time, I don’t feel like I’m betraying myself the building’s exterior architecture, which at that time who wanted to build really inter- as a modernist because I get to do progressive entails carefully restoring the existing structure, esting, edgy residential loft spaces, especially design on the interiors.” as well as fabricating a steel and glass addition— where I was in the artistic South End,” he Chung is quick to point out that whenever he’s converting the one-time jail cells into an recalls. “For me, as a modernist, it was a great possible Urbanica tries to go beyond simply ivy-covered, four-story, glass courtyard located time to be practicing because there was so much restoring the outside of the buildings. in the middle of the building. The new space happening in the city.” “We try to push for building additions as will provide each YooD4 resident with a small The subsequent Internet bust and econom- much as possible, and we work out our sugges- gardening plot and an abundance of natural ic downturn shifted the priorities of prospec- tions with the local government and historic sunlight. tive homebuilders from spectacular spaces to commissions on a case-by-case basis, because The building’s interior design—styled by more conventional quarters. But the residen- we need to preserve the exteriors of the build- Starck in collaboration with Chung—is as dra- tial market in Boston continued to thrive, and ing,” he says. “When we get approval to add a matic as the edifice itself. A model unit show- Chung’s passion for progressive design had only modern addition, we’re very mindful about cases black crystal chandeliers, marble-covered begun to flourish. doing it artfully so that it respects the existing bathrooms, an alcove that reads “Sweet After a few years of practicing design on a structure, but also possesses its own identity at Dreams” in one wall of the master bedroom, smaller scale, Chung began working with devel- the same time.” mirrors that flash words in pink or blue neon, opers on the construction of large multi-unit Unlike typical architectural firms, Chung bamboo floors, and (of course) Starck’s signa- residential buildings which housed condo- says clients generally don’t call Urbanica; the ture oversized flowerpots. miniums, lofts, and townhouses. He quickly company generates its own work. Many of their Scheduled to open this spring, YooD4 has found himself frustrated. projects are obtained through design competi- caused quite a stir, and the units are selling rap- As a designer, his involvement with the proj- tions that make vacant city-owned buildings idly. And while the Starck-styled interiors, the ects didn’t start until well after the construc- available for development. Other times the vibrant courtyard, and the adaptive reuse of the tion was under way, leaving him little company partners with outside design/devel- one-time empty building have been drawing opportunity to make an impact on the final out- opment firms in the private sector. LOBE G praise, some are hesitant to embrace the pro- come of each endeavor. Along with YooD4, Urbanica’s work can be gressive design. “Developers really ran the show when it found across the city in a range of revamped OSTON “I’ve found that homeowner clients typical- came to the construction aspects of new proj- spaces—from a dilapidated 24,000-square-foot /B VEZ ly are far less adventurous than commercial or ects—at a certain point I felt more like a deco- warehouse that was converted into 22 artist loft HA C institutional clients,” says Chung. “I think some rator, coming in after the building was spaces with a ground floor gallery in Chelsea;

homeowners are wary of non-traditional design. configured and then essentially styling it. To me to a decrepit police station in Somerville that OMINIC They tend to look at their house as an invest- that was a real problem,” he says. “Some archi- was revamped into 14 residential units with D ment, and worry about standing out too much.” tects might equate working with developers to high ceilings and minimalist detail; to a former Chung’s career has been about educating ‘getting their hands dirty,’ but I’ve found it to fire station in Belmont currently being trans- and inspiring ever-widening audiences—from be a proactive way to get more involved and formed into six townhouse units with oversized Bostonians to prospective television viewers gain more control in the process—as strictly an windows and a striking copper addition. across the country—about the beauty and liv- architect I was frustrated by not having enough Chung calls some Bostonians “closet mod- ability of modern architectural design. decision-making capabilities.” ernists.” Citing an example, he says, “Outwardly Then he met Kamran Zahedi, now president many of the city’s residents live in historic e started his first practice, of Urbanica, who at that time was a local real brownstone homes and seem to favor very tra- called MODA Architects, dur- estate developer. Chung says Zahedi “really ditional design, but in contrast to the classic- ing the height of the Internet cared about the quality of the design in his proj- looking exteriors, the interiors of their home boom in the late 1990s. A soar- ects and wanted to be involved in the archi- are distinctly modern.” ing stock market, an emerging tecture aspect as well as development.” The School of Architecture Dean Alan Balfour Hclass of young people with money to spend, and two agreed to start a partnership. agrees. “In all ways—including architecture— a growing interest in home renovation and “Essentially Urbanica takes over buildings Boston seems conservative, but increasingly, design presented Chung the perfect environ- in disrepair, restores the outward historic shell, just below the surface is a sense of a new and ment to start a practice that capitalized on his and infuses them with modern design,” says youthful reality that will slowly transform the specialty in high-end, modern design—a style Chung. “It’s a formula that works really well in city,” he says. “Stephen’s work is very much a not often associated with the historic, conser- Boston because the city is so conservative, and part of this transformation. He has created a vative architecture in his hometown of Boston. people like the look of the old shell. At the truly innovative practice.”

30 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 S UZANNE K REITER /B OSTON G LOBE

The Engine1 project will convert a former fire station into six townhouse units.

The interiors of YooD4 (above) and Engine1 (right) share Urbanica’s trademark progressive style.

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 31 “WHEN WE GET APPROVAL TO ADD A MODERN ADDITION, WE’RE VERY MINDFUL ABOUT DOING IT ARTFULLY SO THAT IT RESPECTS THE EXISTING STRUCTURE, BUT ALSO POSSESSES ITS OWN IDENTITY.”

Finding humor in the city’s striking dichoto- show looking at the design of a fabulous new my of old style versus new, Chung says, laugh- club or lounge,” he says, describing the format ing, “People want to get the latest sports car of the show. with a streamlined design and every conceiv- The real strength of the program, Chung able gadget, and then they want me to design a says, is that all of the places he’ll showcase are house for them that looks like it was built 100 public, so viewers can actually go visit them and years ago—but they want it to have a five-car experience them for themselves. “It’s very dif- garage to house their fleet.” ferent than the home shows on television, Chung says that slowly, through the pro- because those are private houses—I want view- gressive architecture of its new retail, hospital- ers to say ‘I could go to that restaurant, I could ity, and municipal spaces, the city is becoming visit that museum.’ That’s the major point of LOBE more and more receptive to modern design. G this project.” “Boston is booming and much of the new After a few episodes Chung hopes viewers OSTON construction in public places like airports, /B will start to get a feel for the different styles of AN stores, and restaurants is very modern. I think Y each city, and eventually be able to distinguish . R the city is making strides,” says Chung. “Some L how the architecture of one place is different VID of the best modern architecture is on college A from the next. Above all, he wants the shows to campuses—like MIT or Wellesley—and I don’t D be entertaining and understandable. think the students at those schools will have the classroom and then sending them out into “It’s not a show about me standing in front of the same style issues that this generation has, a world that doesn’t understand what they do. a gorgeous building talking about its design in because they’ve been surrounded by contem- In many cases, the conditions are not set up for architectural jargon that people don’t get. It’s porary, cutting-edge designs.” them to succeed.” me taking you inside fabulous spaces and saying Trying to think of ways to make architecture ‘hey, this place is pretty cool—you should come hung is quite familiar with accessible to a wider audience, Chung turned to see this building and participate with this archi- Wellesley’s architecture—he television. tecture.’” was there a few months ago to “A long time ago, cooking was perceived as Chung hopes viewers find the show light and shoot a pilot for a television pro- this very unapproachable discipline practiced enjoyable as well as educational. “A show like gram he’s hosting, co-producing, only by standoffish chefs in their pristine this could really turn people’s perceptions about andC co-writing. Called It’s A Cool World, the kitchens. Then one day someone like Rachael architecture around,” he says. “Because right pilot highlights the innovative design of the col- Ray came along and said ‘hey, you could do this now, this idea that people have of the arrogant, lege’s new campus center among other pro- too—you just mix it up like this, it’s not so hard,’ intellectual architect is not helping us.” gressively styled locations in the Boston area. and people’s anxiety toward the subject melted. Although he may soon be a star of the small An on-camera expert for HGTV programs Now there are cooking shows on every station. screen, Chung will always first refer to himself ranging from Small Space, Big Style to Bed and Most people can even name 10 chefs. I say how as an architect, something he knew he wanted Bath Design, Chung is no stranger to television, come no one knows an architect?” to be from the time he was very young. but says “it was never an interest of mine to be Chung hopes his new show will do for archi- “Being an architect makes me who I am, and on TV.” tecture what celebrity chefs were able to do impacts the way I see the world around me,” Teaching, however, has always been a pas- for cooking. It’s A Cool World will take view- says Chung. “Sometimes I’ll watch my 3-year- sion for Chung, who’s been an architecture ers to a different city every episode—shoots old son use a bed sheet to make a little tent on instructor at Cornell, Yale, and the Rhode Island in New York, Austin, Montreal, Miami, and the floor, and because I’m an architect by train- School of Design among others schools. With Chicago are already being planned—where ing, I’ll think to myself, ‘Why does he like this this new show as his vehicle, he hopes to educate Chung will take viewers on a tour of five or six place? Is it because it’s small and protected? Or an audience of non-architects about the mar- public locations that showcase the city’s new that the material is soft and pliant?’” vels of modern, public-space architecture. architecture. Chung finds the same impetus drives his “I’ve been practicing for a long time, and I’ve “In one day we want to give viewers a sense work. “On a very basic level there’s something met so many really bright people along the way of each city’s style. Maybe in the morning we’ll really fulfilling about shaping your environment, that don’t know much about architecture—I start at a cool hotel, and then visit a contem- or finding that special place—that tent—that think they find it intimidating,” he says. “As an porary museum, followed by lunch at a chic you like to go,” he says. “I am privileged to have educator I feel we’re doing a real injustice to café. Later we might visit a couple retail stores, the opportunity to create those spaces for peo- our architecture students by educating them in go to a funky restaurant for dinner, and end the ple every day.”

32 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07

Urbanica50, a former Union Square police station, has been converted into 14 residential units.

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 33 STAYINGCONNECTED

RAA NOMINATIONS Do you want to have an impact on campus? Do you have ideas about alumni programs and services? Then get involved with the Rensselaer Alumni Association (RAA). The RAA board, working in conjunction with the Alumni Relations Office, meets three times per year in Troy and serves as the voice of alumni to the campus. Nomin- ations to serve on next year’s board and committees are now being accepted. To nominate yourself or another alumnus/a, send a brief statement of support to Joyce Kelly Martin at [email protected] by March 15, or call (518) 276-6208 with questions. K RIS Q UA REGIONAL ALUMNI CHAPTERS Alumni can learn more about new facilities and exciting research at the Technology Fair during Reunion ’07. The relationship that Rensselaer has with its graduates extends far beyond the campus. Currently there are 24 regional alum- Reunion: Experience the Renaissance! ni chapters across the United States and Puerto Rico and seven international chap- New programs for families with college-bound students ters. To see if there’s a chapter near you, go to www.alumni.rpi.edu/involved/ chapters or contact Susan Haight at [email protected] or Suzanne Turcotte at WHAT DOES REUNION MEAN son Multidisciplinary [email protected]. to you? Reconnecting with Design Laboratory and the classmates? Time to visit Experimental Media and ALUMNI DOWNLOADS ON DEMAND familiar places? That’s part Performing Arts Center. of it. But this year, Reunion On Saturday, President Visit the “Downloads on Demand” Web also will be a chance for you Shirley Ann Jackson’s page to see videos of recent Rensselaer and for the potential engineer “State of the Institute programs such as President Jackson’s or scientist in your family to Address” will detail the Reunion 2006 explore the wonders of tech- progress the Institute has “State of the nology. New programs will be made toward the goal of Institute” bringing Renaissance at Rens- becoming a top-tier, world- address or the selaer: The Campaign for Rens- class research university RAA’s Mars selaer Polytechnic Institute to with global reach and global Rover program, life for returning alumni. impact. Later, alumni, families, and children to hear audio “Those who don’t come back will really be from pre-K through middle school will learn clips of various presentations, or to missing out,” says Jeff Schanz, director of alum- science, technology, engineering, and math download RPI images to use as back- ni relations and annual giving. “Seeing old concepts with the LEGO® Robotics Program. grounds for your computer. Available friends is fun, but there’s so much more to Old favorites will still be part of the program: at www.alumni.rpi.edu/ondemand/. Reunion than that. Rensselaer has changed tours, a golf outing, a dinner cruise, the Parade so much, and it will be exciting for our alumni of Classes, and the picnic. New events have to experience new facilities and technology been added, such as a luau followed by fire- RAA VISA® CREDIT CARD AND firsthand.” works, the Red & White Reunion Bash FINANCIAL SERVICES On Friday, enjoy “Breakfast with the (games! movies! non-cash Alumni Casino!), The RAA Visa Card, issued by U.S. Bank, Deans,” and learn what’s new inside Rensse- an admissions program for families with college- provides competitive rates while at the laer’s labs and classrooms. “Technology and bound students, a pool party, and plenty of time same time supporting the programs of the Innovation Tours” and the “Technology Fair” to enjoy friends and to explore dear old RPI. RAA. Apply online at www.alumni.rpi.edu/ will showcase facilities and research made pos- For more information on Reunion, visit service/visa.html. sible by the historic $1.4 billion capital cam- www.alumni.rpi.edu/reunion, or contact Kathy paign now under way, such as the O.T. Swan- Kinsey at [email protected], (518) 276-2832.

34 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 EVENTSCALENDAR

MARCH APRIL JUNE Rensselaer Alumni Reception at the Rensselaer in Your Region Comes Academic Short Course on Solid-State 7 Game Developers Conference. Featuring 17 to Northern California. Featuring 4 Lighting. This two-day Summer@ John Harrington, dean of humanities and so- Vice President for Student Life Eddie Ade Rensselaer course presents the history, op- cial sciences. Hotel Palomar, San Francisco, Knowles. For more information, contact erating principles, fabication process, and Calif. 6-9 p.m. Contact Kathy Kinsey at Susan Haight at [email protected] or (518) applications of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) [email protected] or (518) 276-2832. 276-6042. with emphasis on solid-state lighting applications. Intended for scientists, engineers, Rensselaer in Your Region Comes to MAY technicians, and managers working on New Jersey. Featuring Vice President LED application areas. Instructor: E. Fred 7 Alumni Reception at BIO2007, Boston. for Student Life Eddie Ade Knowles. For Schubert. For more information, go to Join us to network with other alumni in more information, contact Susan Haight 7 www.rpi.edu/summer. the biotechnology field. Contact Kathy Kinsey at [email protected] or (518) 276-6042. at [email protected] or (518) 276-2832 if you RAA Worldwide Travel Program are interested in attending, or visit the discus- Professional Leadership Program Visits Iceland. Experience a landscape sion group at groups.yahoo.com/group/ 5 (PLP) in New York City. The PLP truly unique in the world: active volcanoes 14 rpi-lifesciences. Alumni Network welcomes former PLP and steaming lava pools; massive glaciers; Director Marsha Hall ’94 to BearingPoint, thundering waterfalls; a capital city heated RAA Worldwide Travel Program 3 World Financial Center, New York, New almost entirely by natural geothermal Visits Spain. Visit the modern city York. Students from the current PLP 17 steam; and nonstop night life. Stops include of Barcelona and the contrasting, charming classes will also be in attendance. For more the capital city of Reykjavik, the world- Atlantic coastal town of San Sebastian. information, contact Geoff Seber at seberg famous Blue Lagoon, an Icelandic horse Delight in the peaceful countryside and in @rpi.edu or (518) 276-2324. farm, and much more. Contact travel pro- the magnificent works of art by masters gram coordinator Mike Wellner ’64 at such as Picasso and Gaudi. Contact travel Career Development and Networking (212) 486-3064 or [email protected] program coordinator Mike Wellner ’64 at in Baltimore/Washington, D.C. for more info. 14 (212) 486-3064 or [email protected] Keynote speaker is Paul Chan, former CIO for more information. of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Ad- Reunion 2007. Classes ending in 2 or 7, ministration. Stuart Shapiro ’86 of Edell, mark your calendars for June 7-12, and Commencement 2007. Rensselaer’s 7 Shapiro, Finnan, Lytle LLC, will discuss plan to join us for your milestone Reunion. 201st graduation exercises. “Engineers and Patents—Turning Ideas Into 19 Contact Kathy Kinsey for more details at Harkness Field, Troy campus. 9:30 a.m. Money.” Also, a panel made up of recruiters [email protected] or (518) 276-2832. www.rpi.edu/academics/commencement/. will field questions pertaining to mid-career changes. 6 p.m. at the Hall of States, 400 RAA Worldwide Travel Program Rensselaer in Your Region Comes to North Capitol St., Washington, D.C. For Baltic Sea Cruise. Sail with us from Boston. Featuring School of Engi- 19 more information, contact Kathy Kinsey at 22 Stockholm, Sweden, aboard the six-star neering Dean Alan Cramb. For more infor- [email protected] or (518) 276-2832. Crystal Symphony. Cruise to destinations in mation, contact Susan Haight at Estonia, Russia, Finland, and Denmark. [email protected] or (518) 276-6042. Grand Marshal Week. Variety of Contact travel program coordinator Mike 23 activities all week leading up to Wellner ’64 at (212) 486-3064 or at Rensselaer’s annual student government [email protected] for more info. elections. Troy campus.

RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 35 Music director Joel Dolven (fourth from left) inspired generations of music-lovers at Rensselaer.

ONELASTTHING...

WRITE TO US! Musical Memories We welcome contributions to “One Last Thing.” Send personal essays of Alumni pay homage to longtime music director Joel Dolven 750 words or less to [email protected].

IN OCTOBER, RENSSELAER HOSTED “He made the music very person- “Campus Carols was a communi- “Joel Dolven was magnificent! He’s the first-ever Alumni MusicFest, al for all members of the music ty tradition in early to mid-Decem- the faculty member who made the which brought nearly 75 former organizations, and this provided a ber on a Sunday night. It was more greatest impression on me.” members of music groups back to helpful balance for the technical than a campus event since the STEVE SMITH ’50 campus (see page 13). Some who studies of us engineering types.” Field House was filled. It was dark- attended, and many others who did ened as we filed onto the ice toward Camden, Maine J. DAVID BENEDICT ’49 not, penned memories of their the stage singing Adeste Fidelis in Holland, Mich. musical experiences, and in par- Latin, unaccompanied. We made “Without Joel Dolven, I never ticular, their devotion to the man our way to the stage and when would have graduated from RPI. who inspired their lifelong love of “Professor Joel Dolven was my everyone was there we went to When my GI Bill ran out, he paid music—Joel Dolven, who led cam- mentor, friend, and counselor. By four-part harmony in English and my tuition out of his own pocket pus music groups, notably the Glee a wide margin, he influenced my filled that barn!” in exchange for teaching some of Club, from the ’40s until he retired young life more than anyone else his Music Appreciation classes. HOWARD HENZE ’69 in 1970. on campus during those four years. Without Joel Dolven, I never From him I learned not only about Arden, N.C. would have met my wife of 57 music, but also about integrity and “I think all of us who sang for Joel years. Joel encouraged the Russell maturity—areas where under- “My longest-lasting relationship Dolven in the Glee Club had the Sage girls to come up and play in graduates need plenty of help. I from RPI (outside of a great edu- same experience, namely, that he the RPI orchestra and she was one mastered Kirchoff’s Laws, Laplace cation) is as a founding member, was one who helped lay the foun- of them. (Joel sang at our wedding.) Transforms, and Celestial Naviga- along with Jim Moore ’50, of the dation of our whole person. Of all Without Joel Dolven, I would tion with the help of the rest of the Four Horsemen Quartet. With Joel my activities at RPI, I think my four never have tried to live my life by faculty, but Joel helped me with the Dolven’s blessing, we put togeth- years in the Glee Club are proba- his example of kindness, high stan- foundation of my whole person. I’m er the group to augment the Glee bly my fondest memories.” dards, and great musicality. With- now retired from a satisfying career Club programs. During the next out Joel Dolven, the Four Horse- TOM DONNELLY ’50 in computer research, product 50-plus years, the Four Horsemen men would not have maintained Western Springs, Ill. design, and manufacturing, which sang on and off at various func- their close relationships, and we was central to my life. But ever tions. I also learned my choral con- continued to sing and promote RPI “Joel Dolven was my greatest musi- since graduation in 1951 I have also ducting ‘skills’ at Joel Dolven’s for over 56 years.” cal influence. I learned a great deal been involved, in some capacity elbow.” from him especially about the great (singer, director, accompanist, CHUCK KELLY ’50 BOB WASSUNG ’50 manager, etc.) in choral music, Lake Placid, N.Y. classical works we played…The East Lyme, Conn. Tuesday night session was the high- right up to the present, and per- EDITOR’S NOTE: Chuck Kelly ’50 con- light of my busy week. To immerse haps that is Joel’s final—and most “At RPI, Joel further expanded my tributed time, recordings, images, and in music was a great relief from the abiding—gift to me.” musical horizons and equally much enthusiasm to the inaugural Alum- pressures that an RPI education ni MusicFest, and was helping to spear- JIM MCCALLISTER ’51 important my growth as a person.” head the fund-raising effort to name the requires.” Johns Island, S.C. JOHN FOEHL ’53 Conductor’s Suite in the new perform- ALLAN SPERBER ’64 Medway, Mass. ing arts center for Joel Dolven. Chuck Bethpage, N.Y. passed away suddenly Dec. 15, 2006.

56 RENSSELAER/WINTER 2006-07 FRONTIERS OF EXCELLENCE

Join The Renaissance Challenge

East Campus Athletic Village Constellations and Biotechnology and the Life Sciences Chaired Professorships

Fuel the Five Frontiers of Excellence

Experimental Media and the Arts

Scholarships and Fellowships

The Renaissance Challenge From now until November 1, 2007, a core group of extraordinary leadership donors are willing to contribute up to $25 million, and they will be asking alumni and friends to join them in this effort to raise $50 million in total for the Five Frontiers of Excellence at Rensselaer. Donors of a new gift of $100,000 or more will, in effect, double the impact of their gift, if they choose to support one of the Institute’s top priorities. For more information, contact the Campaign Office at (518) 276-2566.

We value every contribution to the campaign. If you would like to give to one of the frontiers at any level, please give online at rpi.edu/campaign and designate one of the five Frontiers of Excellence.

Why do you give to the endowment? “Rensselaer and chemistry have always been an important part of my life and career.”

Now through a charitable gift annuity, Marie Agnew- Marcelli ’48 will be able to contribute to the Walker Laboratory endowment to support a new generation of Rensselaer chemists.This versatile financial planning tool provides a secure retirement income for Marie while allowing her to give to something near and dear to her heart. To learn more about ways to support Rensselaer, go to www.alumni.rpi.edu/giftplan.

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