NTID Celebrates 40 Years of Performing Arts

The University Magazine Spring 2010

NTID celebrates 40 years of performing arts

RIT adopts semester calendar: Learn more Imagine RIT: Innovation and Creativity Festival May 1

Six pillars for success at RIT

We are in the home stretch of the 2009-2010 academic year and I see no slowing down for RIT, by all measures a university with a steep upward trajectory. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting with alumni in 15 cities since September. Learning about the success of our graduates always reinvigorates me. Indeed, many of our alumni are leaders in their fields and have forged exciting careers. (You can meet a few of them in a special feature starting on page 21.) Conversations with alumni, students, faculty and staff have helped me crystallize my vision for the university. I believe RIT’s future rests with six pillars of success. RIT RIT: The University Magazine will become: • A creative and innovative university: We want students to experience the adrena- Executive Editors line rush that comes when they solve a prob- Deborah M. Stendardi Government and Community Relations lem or create a new product or service. Bob Finnerty ’07, University News Services • A renowned career-focused, teaching university: Students must always come Editor Kathy Lindsley, University News Services first. We will stay true to our heritage as RIT remains committed to career focus and Contributing Editors experiential learning, with our cooperative President Destler at last year’s Imagine RIT: Innovation Lisa Cauda, Development and Alumni Relations and Creativity Festival. (Photo by Max Schulte ’97) Lydia Palmer, Development education program among the nation’s elite. Kelly Redder, Alumni Relations That said, RIT will move from the current Craig Smith, Development Alumni Relations Staff quarter system to a semester-based academic calendar starting in Fall 2013. We see many reasons why this will positively impact the quality of the education experience for students (Story, Art Director FAQs, page 2). Colleen McGuinness-Clarke ’87, ’08 University Publications • A respected research and scholarship university: Consider how quickly we’ve advanced in this arena. We received a record $58.4 million in sponsored research funding during fiscal Photographer year 2009, a 20 percent increase from the previous year. We have set a goal of $100 million by A. Sue Weisler ’93, University News Services 2013. Writers: University News Services • A great student experience university: The needs of future students will drive RIT. We Michelle Cometa seek to create a holistic experience that is enjoyed by students and remembered by alumni for Kelly Downs Will Dube ’09 life. One recent example of this was a group of students who led a project to build a Habit for John Follaco Humanity House in a Rochester neighborhood. The home was built with a “green” design, Susan M. Gawlowicz ’95 making it more energy efficient (see page 29). Marcia Morphy Mike Saffran ’08 • An international university: We have set goals to increase the total number of interna- Paul Stella ’03 tional students studying at RIT, as well as increasing the number of RIT students partaking in study-abroad programs and who study at our international sites. Later this year, we will open Print Production Brenda Monahan, University Publications Global Village, a $54.5 million retail marketplace and housing complex on campus that will bear a resemblance to the street-side cafés of Europe. University News Services • A sustainable university: RIT seeks to become a world leader in sustainability education, 132 Lomb Memorial Drive Rochester, NY 14623-5608 research and practice. We’re on our way! We recently achieved the pinnacle in recognition for Voice: 585-475-5064 sustainable construction and design with a new building that is among the world’s “greenest” Fax: 585-475-5097 (see page 29). E-mail: [email protected] So this is where RIT plans to go. What will it take to get there? What have I left out? I can Office of Alumni Relations always use your feedback. Feel free to send ideas and suggestions to [email protected]. As Crossroads 41 Lomb Memorial Drive you can see, there is little time to catch your breath around this magnificent university. Rochester, NY 14623-5603 Voice: 585-475-ALUM, Toll Free: 866-RIT-ALUM TTY: 585-475-2764, Fax: 585-475-5308 E-mail: [email protected]

Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, Bill Destler New York, publishes The University Magazine. President RIT will admit and hire men and women; veterans; www.rit.edu/president people with disabilities; individuals of any race, creed, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, age or marital status P.S. Please accept my invitation to join us from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 1, for the in compliance with all appropriate legislation. third annual Imagine RIT: Innovation and Creativity Festival. The festival drew more than Vol.12, No.1, 105M-P0927-04/10-LAN-CMcGC 25,000 visitors last year. It is a spectacle you need to experience to fully appreciate the RIT Printer: The Lane Press; Burlington, Vermont of today. The free festival will feature hundreds of exhibits and activities showcasing the best © 2010 Rochester Institute of Technology of technology, art, science and more from our students, faculty and staff. I’ll see you May 1, All rights reserved rain or shine. The University Magazine Spring 2010

Fathers, daughters and tigers enjoyed a 37 new tradition. (Photo by Ken Huth ’88)

RIT students took on the challenge of The new Campus Center has opened in the space formerly occupied by the Woodward Swimming Pool. 29 building a sustainable Habitat for 6 The three-story facility features a dramatic entrance off the Quarter Mile across from Clark Gym. Humanity home in Rochester.

Departments Features

2 On Campus 14 Hand-crafting the future 7 Faculty Essay School for American Crafts moves into state-of-the-art studios

8 Letters 17 Curtain going up 10 About Students Performing arts at NTID provide extraordinary experiences for students, audiences 36 Alumni Activities 21 Labors of love 40 Class Notes When RIT grads pursue their passions, the results are amazing

Cover 29 Sustainable shelter Performing in the January 2010 production of Solutions to the world’s energy shortage and global warming could be close to home ‘Little Women’ are, from left, second-year student Morgan Breese of Jacksonville, Ill; first-year 32 High hopes for clean technology student Jayne Spaeth of Sacramento, Calif., and RIT grads are among those finding business opportunities in the green revolution (in green) fourth-year student Beth Applebaum of Trenton, N.J. (Photo by A. Sue Weisler ’93) 34 Playing for laughs Imaging science professor leads a surprising life outside the lab On Campus

Quarter system gives way to semesters

Beginning in fall of 2013, RIT will convert proposed calendar options from its traditional quarter system to a including alternative quarter semester-based calendar, President Bill Des- calendars. tler announced on Feb. 10. As a result of these discus- During this transition, it will be RIT’s top sions, a number of reasons priority to protect all students from any harm have surfaced for making the during the change from quarters to semes- change. Of these, the most ters, Destler pledged. Students will not lose important by far are those progress toward earning their degree, nor that have the potential to incur any financial burden associated with positively impact the quality the change, he stated. of the educational experience Destler cites the diminishing number of that our students receive. colleges and universities operating under These include: a quarter-based academic calendar as one • Semester calendars are reason for the change. Two decades ago, 25 currently in use at almost all President Destler announced in February that RIT will begin using a percent of higher education institutions in other colleges and universities, semester-based calendar beginning in 2013. the United States used the quarter system. and the adoption of a semester However, it is estimated that number will de- calendar at RIT will greatly Question: Won’t a change to the semester cline below 10 percent in 2012. All colleges in facilitate our interactions with other institu- system result in a loss in the academic rigor? the Rochester area are on semester calendars. tions in such areas as credit transfer, student Answer: The total instructional/lab hours “RIT is in an increasingly isolated position exchange, and study abroad opportunities for taken by a typical student per week and per that clearly complicates our interactions students. year will remain the same and the content of with other institutions in such areas as credit • There is a potential for improved student our degree programs will remain essentially transfer, student exchange and study-abroad retention and graduation rates. Because the same. Most of the colleges and universities opportunities,” says Destler. semesters are five weeks longer than quarters, thought to be especially rigorous in their aca- The semester system will be based on a entering freshmen will have a longer period demic programs are on the semester system. flexible “5x3” model, meaning most students to adjust to college before final exams. In ad- Question: What about the co-op program? will take five 3-credit courses per semes- dition, all students will have greater oppor- Answer: RIT remains committed to co-op ter. Currently, students typically take four tunities to recover from illnesses and other experiences as a key feature of our students’ 4-credit courses during each of the fall, win- interruptions in their studies. Finally, the education. RIT has already been contacted ter and spring quarters. In the new system, elimination of the winter quarter disrupted by co-op employers who are pleased with fall semester will get underway in late August, by the holiday break should help students be- the change because almost all other co-op allowing for an extended holiday break from cause the rate of course failures is the highest schools are now on semester systems. Over- late December through much of January. during this period. all, the co-op experience will not change. Spring semester will conclude in late May, as • The proposed calendar will allow for the Question: What will happen to students it does under the current calendar. offering of an optional January “mini-mester” enrolled at the time of the change? for students who want to shorten their time Answer: Student input will be solicited Following are answers to some of the to degree, earn some extra money, or work at all stages of the process to ensure that no most frequently raised questions about intensively on student projects. student is harmed as a result of the transition. the decision. • A semester calendar will allow the sched- During the year prior to the change, students Question: Why is RIT changing its calen- uling of winter and spring breaks at times will be advised as to how their work under dar system? similar to those adopted by other institutions. the quarter system will be matched to work Answer: The RIT community has been Our students would then have a better chance under the semester system. discussing a possible calendar change over to see old friends and to participate in cross- the last two years. These discussions have institutional education and public service To learn more about the change, go to www.rit.edu/ involved students, faculty and staff and have programs that are increasingly offered during president. Feedback on RIT’s conversion to semesters included many open forums and different these break periods. may be sent to President Destler at [email protected].

2 | SPRING 2010 Conference covers technology and Baja is back! future of reading

The past decade has brought texting, tweeting, e-readers, Google Books and digital libraries into a parallel universe with the millennia-old printed media. What will survive? “Reading is a cornerstone of modern civilization but is currently in technologi- cal turmoil,” says Charles Bigelow, Melbert B. Cary Jr. Distinguished Professor at RIT’s School of Print Media. “Changes in the technical forms and social aspects of reading will soon affect many of our most treasured social institutions including education, publishing, politics and commerce.” Those changes are the focus of RIT’s Future of Reading, a three-day event taking The 2010 Baja SAE Rochester Wet World Challenge motors its way back to RIT June 10-12 for one place June 9-12 across the campus. Keynote of the biggest Baja car competitions of the season. The international design challenge, run by the speakers are Margaret Atwood, award- Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), rallies engineering and engineering technology students winning author of more than 40 books, and from colleges and universities all over the world. The event is open to the public with the set up Wired editor-in-chief Chris Anderson. and static events taking place June 10 and 11 at the Gordon Field House on campus. The dynamic The event is co-sponsored by the School events, including the endurance components, take place June 12 and 13 at Hogback Hill MX, in of Print Media and Cary Graphic Arts Press, Palmyra, N. Y. More information is online at: www.rit.edu/cast/mmetps/bajasae/index.html and will feature presentations by experts in writing systems, content creation, vision and cognition, typography, visual media and display technology. Online graphic design archive launched “The aim of the conference is to foresee where new modes of reading will take us,” A “Who’s Who” of 20th century graphic “The Cary Graphic Design Archive is a says David Pankow, curator of RIT’s Cary designers featuring designer archives that collection of important archives of design- Graphic Arts Collection. “Will technology have been assembled at RIT is now available ers, not all of whom were born in the United and new media spell the end of traditional on the Internet. States but who have spent major portions of reading?” Administrated by Cary their careers working here,” he The Future of Reading conference will Graphic Arts Collection in explains. “Collections started offer point-counterpoint discussions focusing RIT’s Wallace Center, the to be deposited at RIT in 1984 on three central themes: Reading and Writ- online portal documents through the vision of Roger ing, Media and Technology, and Science and an important repository of Remington, beginning with a the Art of Literacy. Notable guest speakers primary resource material in very important archive of Lester include Johanna Drucker of UCLA Infor- graphic design. Beall, a significant designer in the mation Studies, Amit Ray of RIT Literary Creation of the Web 1950s and 1960s.” and Cultural Studies, N. Katherine Hayles portal was facilitated by The Web site includes a time- ’66 of Duke University, Denis Pelli of New numerous RIT faculty and line, historical information about York University, Kris Holmes of Bigelow & staff. They include Vignelli modern design movements, biog- Holmes typography, and author and linguist Distinguished Profes- raphies of designers represented Robert Bringhurst. sor Roger Remington and and sample images of their work. The event is expected to attract 500 Associate Professor Bruce “We hope to announce to the national and international participants in Meader, faculty members at “Running Water” (1937) world our great and wonderful the fields of publishing, graphic design and RIT’s School of Design in by Lester Beall resources through this Web site,” typography, digital humanities, library sci- the College of Imaging Arts says Pankow. “It will show other ence and media technology. and Sciences; Chandra McKenzie, associate designers out there that we are serious about Marcia Morphy provost and RIT Libraries director; and Kari caring for these materials, promoting and Horowicz, library liaison for the College of taking care of them and making them avail- For more information visit http://futureofreading.cias. Imaging Arts and Sciences. able to scholars and students.” rit.edu/ or contact Amelia Hugill-Fontanel, assistant Also involved with the project was David Marcia Morphy curator, Cary Graphic Arts Collection, at 585 475-4213 Pankow, curator of RIT’s Cary Graphic Arts To access the Cary Graphic Design Archive, go to http:// or [email protected]. Collection. library.rit.edu/gda/.

SPRING 2010 | 3 Notebook B.S. program in Environmental Sustainability launched RIT’s bachelor of science degree program in Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety reflects the need for organizations to become more sustainable and socially responsible in their activities, products and services. “The environmental management program, launched in 1991 as the first of its A steady stream of students, staff and faculty patron- kind in the nation, has evolved from focusing on pollution control, to minimizing ize RIT’s new Ctrl Alt Deli, in the Golisano College of material, energy and environmental resource use, and now, by this move, to pursuing Computing and Information Sciences. environmental sustainability,” says John Morelli, chairperson of the Department of Civil Engineering Technology, Environmental Management and Safety. Four new courses are being developed for the degree, three of which will focus on ‘Nerdiest’ eatery sustainability and social responsibility, including a new comprehensive capstone course. opens on campus Print alumnus gives $100,000 to Cary Graphic Arts Press RIT’s new Ctrl Alt Deli (pronounced “Con- Brooks Bower ’74 (printing) has pledged $100,000 to establish “The Bower Family trol Alt Deli”) has a name that any computer Publications Fund” to help support RIT’s scholarly publishing enterprises – Cary geek could love – and, fortunately, RIT has Graphic Arts Press and its new imprint, RIT Press. no shortage of them. Bower is chairman and chief executive officer of Papercone Corp., an envelope- The deli’s moniker pays tribute to the manufacturing firm in Louisville, Ky. The fund will provide $50,000 over two years so-called “three finger salute” (the per- that may be used by RIT Press for its immediate publication needs and the remain- sonal-computer keyboard combination ing $50,000 will create a permanent endowment to ensure that “The Bower Family – Control+Alt+Delete – used to reboot a Endowed Publications Fund” will exist at RIT in perpetuity. computer). It has been described as “the nerdiest deli” Former GM executive heads Green Transportation Center in America. Not many menus begin this way: Matt Fronk, a long-time leader of General Motors’ research initiatives in fuel cells, is C:\>dir Design_Your_Own_Sandwich the new director of RIT’s Center for Sustainable Mobility. The eatery – featuring “Mega Byte” and Fronk directs research programs in hydrogen fuel technology, fuel cell develop- “Half Byte” sandwiches – is located in the ment, alternative fuels and hybrid vehicle systems. Fronk is also involved in research atrium of the B. Thomas Golisano College of efforts related to RIT’s Golisano Institute for Sustainability. Computing and Information Sciences. That Fronk spent more than 30 years at General Motors in a wide variety of engineer- means the 2,363 students majoring in coming and leadership positions. Most recently he served as director of GM’s Fuel Cell puter science, information technology, inter- Research Laboratory in Honeoye Falls, N.Y. active games and media, networking, systems administration, and software engineering help ensure a steady flow of customers. Michael Chin, a first-year computer sci- In Memoriam ence major from the Bronx, N.Y., came up with the award-winning name. Phillip Batchelor, lecturer in the Department of Manufacturing and Mechanical Engi- “I thought, how can I infuse something neering/Packaging Science, died Nov. 19, 2009. He came to RIT in 1994 after working at about computers that is easily recognizable Xerox Corp. as advance development mechanical design engineer and software devel- and that everyone would know, and include opment manager. . . . Michelle Dermody, lab technician in the biological and medical something about the deli with it? Then I sciences department in the College of Science for more than 10 years, died Oct. 13, 2009. glanced at my keyboard, and the rest was his- . . . Marcia B. Dugan, who worked at NTID from 1980 to 1995 as director of public af- tory,” Chin recounts. fairs and as special assistant to the NTID director, died Feb. 7, 2010, after a battle with An announcement about the deli, leukemia. She was 78. . . .Virginia Eisenhart, a long-time supporter of RIT, died Dec. 15, “tweeted,” fittingly enough, on Twitter, drew 2009. Mrs. Eisenhart and her husband, Richard (chairman emeritus of the RIT Board of instant response. Trustees), were instrumental in establishing the Eisenhart Awards for Outstanding Teach- “This might be the nerdiest deli in the ing and the Richard and Virginia Eisenhart Provost’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. United States,” mused Kayla Zerby ’05 They also have been generous supporters of numerous other programs at the university (professional and technical communication), including the Eisenhart Memorial Scholarship. . . . Robert Gilman, professor emeritus in tweeting from Newport Beach, Calif. “Yeah, I the College of Science, died Feb. 2, 2010. His career at RIT spanned 30 years. He served as want mayo. No, wait. Ctrl+Z. Mustard.” head of the chemistry department and was the first recipient of the Eisenhart Award for “At first, I thought, ‘You’ve got to be kid- Distinguished Young Teachers in 1966. He retired from RIT in 1994. . . . Bochiwe Hara- ding,’ ” adds Zerby, who recently relocated Kaonga, assistant professor in the School of Biological and Medical Sciences, died to New York City. “But it quickly switched Jan. 28, 2010. . . . Shirley B. Masseth, an RIT employee for more than 25 years, died to, ‘This is genius.’ Talk about knowing your Jan. 5, 2010. She worked in the Food Service Department for many years, and at NTID. customers!” Prior to retiring, she worked for the Project Lead the Way program. Mike Saffran ’08

4 | SPRING 2010 Rwandan lake contains potential for catastrophe

A sleeping giant rests at the bottom of Lake Kivu bordering Rwanda and the Republic of Congo. Scientists can’t say for sure if it will slumber for another 1,000 years or someday explode without warning. A dangerous level of carbon dioxide and methane gas haunts the freshwater lake system in a region prone to volcanic and seismic activity. Compounding the precarious situation is the presence of approximately 2 million people, many of them refugees, living along the north end of the lake. Anthony Vodacek, associate professor at RIT’s Chester F. Carl- son Center for Imag- ing Science, worked closely with the Rwandan Ministry of Education to organize a January meeting of international researchers interested in this situation. Anthony Vodacek “Rwandan univer- Lake Kivu, on the western border of Rwanda, could pose a threat to millions of people residing nearby. sities suffered greatly in the 1994 genocide and there are few Rwan- dissolved in water.” Through his own research, Vodacek plans dan scientists performing significant work on When the cap is removed, bubbles form to simulate the circulation of Lake Kivu. the lake or within the rift system,” he notes. and rise to the surface. More bubbles form Modeling the circulation patterns above the Vodacek is working with Cindy Ebinger, and create a column that drags the water and layers of carbon dioxide and methane will an expert in East African Rift tectonics at the the gas up to the surface in a chain reaction. help determine the energy required to disrupt University of Rochester, and Robert Hecky, “The question is, and what’s really un- the gas and cause Lake Kivu to explode. an expert in limnology – the study of lake known, is how explosive is that?” Vodacek Susan Gawlowicz ’95 systems – at University of Minnesota-Duluth. says. Core samples Hecky took in the 1970s initially brought the safety of Lake Kivu under question. Numerous milestones accomplished “Most scientists are fairly in agreement that the lake is pretty stable; it’s not as if during Michael Morley’s tenure its going to come bursting out tomorrow,” Vodacek says. “But in such a tectonically and Michael P. Morley ’69 (business administra- says Donald Boyce ’67 (business administra- volcanically active area, you can’t tell what’s tion), who led RIT as chair of the Board of tion), the new board chair. “If RIT follows going to happen.” Trustees from 2005 the strategic plan that was developed under One of the problems is that the 1,600-foot- to 2009, died Nov. 19, Mike Morley’s leadership, RIT will not only deep lake never breathes. The tropical climate 2009. Mr. Morley, of continue to provide an excellent education helps stagnate the layers of the lake, which Pittsford, N.Y., was 66. for students, but it will also rise even further never mix or turn over. In contrast, fluctu- Mr. Morley spent in stature. Mike will be disappointed if we ating temperatures in colder climates help his career at Eastman rest on our laurels.” circulate lake water and prevent gas build up. Kodak Co., where he In a 2009 interview, Mr. Morley credited Close calls occurred in 2008 when an climbed the ranks RIT with providing him “the skills and earthquake occurred near the lake and in before retiring in 2004 confidence that have been so important to my 2002 when a volcanic eruption destroyed as chief administra- success. My time with RIT has been an excit- parts of Goma in the Democratic Republic Michael P. Morley ’69 tion officer and execu- ing adventure. RIT continues to grow in size of Congo, only 11 miles north of Lake Kivu. tive vice president. and scope. It is amazing to see how far the Vodacek likens the contained pressure During his time as board chair, RIT com- university has come in such a short period.” in the lake to a bottle of carbonated soda or pleted a successful $309 million fundraising Mr. Morley and his wife, Jean, were champagne. “In the lake, you have the carbon campaign; developed and implemented a married more than 45 years. He is also dioxide on the bottom and 300 meters of wa- strategic plan to guide the university through survived by three grown children and three ter on top of that, which is the cap,” he says. 2015; and greatly expanded the campus. grandchildren. “That’s the pressure that holds it. The gas is “Mike was a great colleague and friend,” Bob Finnerty ’07

SPRING 2010 | 5 the cascading fountain that was created using concrete seating that once overlooked the swimming pool. “So many faculty and staff have told me that they have fond memories of sitting on the bleachers and watching their children compete in swim meets or participating in swimming lessons,” says Boice-Pardee. “All of those people are elated that the space is being used in a new and different way to serve our university community. In fact, we’re brain- storming ways to make that fountain area more than just a beautiful area. For example, money that is being tossed into the fountain will be donated to charity – and we are thinking of fun and wacky ways to draw more attention to this area – perhaps something involving rubber ducks and inner tubes.” Students played an integral role in the creation and functionality of the space and so The lounge on the second floor of the Campus Center features an open gathering area for students with bay win- far, they seem pleased with the outcome. dows overlooking RIT’s Quarter Mile and a view of the entrance to Clark Gym. “At most universities, the student union is the core of campus life and activity,” explains Matt Danna, Student Government president. Students dive into splashy new Campus Center “Previous Student Government administrations saw that this was really lacking in our The new Campus Center has opened its American) Collegiate Association. student union. They advocated for more doors after nearly three years of planning The upper floor features a student lounge club space and resources, meeting rooms and construction. It’s destined to become the in the glass bay overlooking the Quarter Mile. and new offices related to student life. From beating heart of the campus community – a It also houses offices for Orientation and the the student input came the new Campus space where students can connect, socialize First-Year Enrichment Program, in addition Center. What was once Wodward Pool, and study. to offices for the Off Campus and Apartment hosting countless swim meets and events, is “From the beginning we knew that we Student Association. The upper level also now a center for student engagement. With wanted to create an inviting atmosphere that has two connected multi-purpose rooms for an influx of club membership, new major was completely student centered,” says Heath student events and a sizable reading room student organizations, and increasing size of Boice-Pardee, associate vice president for stu- complete with working fireplace for quiet the student body, this construction provided dent affairs. “This is a gathering place for our study. students the foundation they needed for students that encourages positive interaction “The multi-purpose room has been named future growth of the institute.” – much like a town square – and connects the Bamboo Room because it has amazing It’s evidence that RIT remains dedicated to several aspects of student life together in bamboo wood flooring throughout, which its primary customers – students. ways that have never been done before.” gives it an upscale feel,” says Boice-Pardee. “Some folks have suggested that the detail The 30,000-plus square-foot area across “It’s fun to see the students, faculty and staff and intricate finish work in the Campus Cen- from Clark Gymnasium, with access from embracing this project and making it their ter would have been more appropriate for an inside the Student Alumni Union, is charac- ow n .” administrative building,” says Boice-Pardee. terized by a curved window wall, comfortable Although the $10 million facility has taken “But it’s been clear from the beginning that seating areas and a fountain with an interest- the place of the Woodward Pool area, the we wanted to give students the top-rate facil- ing back story. pool has not been forgotten. One of the more ity that they deserve. And I think we have.” As visitors enter the Campus Center, they unusual features inside the Campus Center is Vienna Carvalho with John Follaco encounter open spaces and winding stair- cases leading to the building’s occupants. The facility’s main level is home to the Welcome Center, Student Government, the Leadership Institute and Community Service Center and the RIT Women’s Center. It also includes three general-use conference rooms and a large student club resource area that inte- grates all aspects of club organization, administration and finance. Tenants on the lower level include the Center for Campus Life, Reporter magazine, the College Activities Board, Global Union and AALANA (Afri- Students enjoy the Campus Center reading room, which The unique fountain incorporated concrete bleachers can American, Latino American, and Native features a working fireplace. that once overlooked the former Woodward Pool.

6 | SPRING 2010 Faculty Essay

The Auto Bailout: How much did it really cost? By Thomas D. Hopkins reprivatize the auto industry, restoring private TARP is not the only source of taxpayer During the past year, the federal govern- ownership of the three firms. But virtually no support that has been directed to the auto ment’s Troubled Asset Relief Program one expects that all of the taxpayer funds ever industry. The “Cash for Clunkers” program (TARP) distributed to the U.S. auto industry will be repaid. For reprivatization to occur in provided nearly $3 billion in rebates to more than $80 billion of taxpayer funds – a way that protects at least a portion of the consumers who purchased more fuel-efficient some $800 per American taxpaying family. taxpayers’ investment will require a thought- vehicles. However, this substantial taxpayer General Motors alone received more than ful exit plan. Unfortunately, no such plan cost appears to have provided only a modest $50 billion; the rest went to Chrysler and to yet exists. assist to auto producers, mostly benefiting GMAC, the company that finances these two The auto bailout has been a sobering expe- individuals who were going to purchase ve- manufacturers’ sales operations. The funding rience whose adverse consequences cannot hicles even without the subsidy. One estimate included both loans and equity investments. be corrected easily. Auto producers whose puts at just 18 percent the share of subsidized As a result, the federal government now products American consumers find most sales that reasonably can be regarded as at- is a major stockholder in each of the three appealing have been notably missing from tributable to the rebates. firms, owning in particular more than 60 the roster of bailout recipients. Our subsidies In sum, the auto bailout is a story of percent of GM. instead have gone to the poor performers, the government’s directing large amounts of It is not easy to comprehend the sheer size firms whose past management decisions money to particular firms in one manufactur- of such government financial transactions. proved faulty. ing industry in hopes of averting even greater One way to get some perspective involves As a result, the bailout has created moral economic distresses than were encountered relating the $80 billion cash bailout to the hazard problems, inadvertently handicapping during the recession. It is unclear whether the number of vehicles being produced. the progress of stronger, non-subsidized pro- net effects in the long run will be positive and Suppose by January 2011 all three firms ducers. The problems extend beyond just the whether the consequences of the “no bailout” are back on track, able from then on to make auto industry, as favored status for any one alternative would have been worse. These key ends meet without further subsidies – but company necessarily complicates prospects questions were not asked at the outset, and not prosperous enough to pay back the $80 for non-subsidized rivals. answers remain elusive. billion. Suppose, more specifically, that GM Consider the case of GMAC, a firm regains its 2008 market share of 22 percent that provides financing services to both GM Thomas D. Hopkins is while Chrysler (which has been harder hit) and Chrysler (supporting transactions with professor of economics achieves a 10 percent market share. In that their dealers and customers). GMAC enjoys at RIT. He served as event, the bailout would have amounted to a taxpayer help well beyond the amounts dean of RIT’s Saunders per vehicle subsidy of roughly $12,000 for GM disbursed through TARP. GMAC is subsi- College of Business and $7,500 for Chrysler on every car and light dized by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. from 1998 to 2005. truck they produced during 2009 and 2010. (FDIC). The FDIC agreed to guarantee repay- Hopkins held senior These amounts per vehicle overstate ment of some $7.5 billion of GMAC’s private management positions the subsidy if the firms’ recovery proves to indebtedness. Such government guarantees in two White House Thomas D. Hopkins agencies during the “The bailout has created moral hazard problems, inadvertently Ford, Carter and Rea- handicapping the progress of stronger, non-subsidized producers.” gan Administrations. His research on business burdens of government regulation has been Thomas D. Hopkins, professor of economics sponsored by the Organization for Economic Cooperation & Development (OECD) in Paris be more robust. But many, including the are not available to most private firms. More- and the U.S. Small Business Administration government’s own watchdog agency (the U.S. over, GMAC operates a taxpayer-assisted (SBA). Government Accountability Office) question bank – Ally Bank – that competes directly He has testified on regulatory policy issues whether either GM or Chrysler can survive at with private banks that have no access to before committees of the U.S. Senate and all in the long term. World auto production government-provided equity. House and Canada’s House of Commons. He capability exceeds world consumer demand. Such government guarantees do not co-authored a 2001 SBA report, “The Impact High quality products and rigorous cost translate into an immediate call on taxpayer of Regulatory Costs on Small Firms,” as well as controls are essential for survival, and neither funds, but neither are they without cost. National Research Council reports on marine firm has an impressive record on these Should default occur, the taxpayer would be transportation, the Exxon Valdez oil spill, and dimensions. hit twice – once as GMAC shareholder with trucking/rail/barge transportation. If the firms do manage to survive, most declining equity value, and again as guarantor expect that the government eventually will of GMAC debt.

SPRING 2010 | 7 Letters

Greek Memories

Note: The story “Brothers and Sisters” in the Winter 2009-10 issue of The University Maga- zine featured a number of photos from the RIT Archives. Readers responded, providing identifications and additional information. (The article and images can be seen online at www.rit.edu/magazine.) Several readers called with information about the teeter-totter, a fund-raiser that has been sponsored by a number of organizations over the years. Scott Dingman ’89 (photo illustration) of Raleigh, N.C., recalled that it was set up along the Quarter Mile between Clark Gym and the Woodward Swimming Pool by Tau Epsilon Phi (his fraternity) and Alpha Sigma Alpha during his years at RIT. Dingman was able to identify some of the people in the photo. From left are Chris Webber (standing), unknown student, Jim Mount, Tom Schade, unknown, Chris Marks (wearing a hat), Al Savagno, Daphne Demas, unknown, Dingman (turned away), Greg Rense (mustache), Tom Bocchia, and two others he could not name. except Dotty, who was ’53 (retail manage- but “Irene.” She, her two sisters, brother “Our fraternity raised thousands of dollars ment). All were members of Phi Upsilon Phi, and mother were my summer neighbors on for charity,” says Dingman, who recently has sister sorority to Kappa Sig. Conesus Lake for many years. Irene was the been reconnecting with his former brothers The fellows in the “Who will be Cinder- consumer adviser for many years at Roches- through Facebook. ella?” photo, also from the ’52 Techmilla, are, ter Gas & Electric. You might say she was the from left, Joe Cornacchia ’52 (printing), Joe Martha Stewart of RG&E, teaching cooking I received the latest issue of The Univer- McKenna ’52 (printing), and an unknown classes and experimenting with and creating sity Magazine and person, all members of recipes for customers. wanted to tell you Kappa Sigma Kappa. The early ’50s were full of social events how I appreciate The photo of a group of and being a much smaller institute back then, your publish- men holding hearts was we knew almost all our fellow classmates. It ing photos from printed in Techmilla ’51 was also a very serious time, educationally, bygone eras. and captioned “Pledges as you can see from our manner of dress and The photo of warble sweetheart advertis- demeanor. I would hope the present-day the three women ing,” promoting the annual students realize what a special education they doing high kicks Sweetheart Ball sponsored by are receiving at this very prestigious school. was printed in the Kappa Sigma Kappa. Kay Conlon ’52 (photography) Techmilla ’52 year- Lastly, not Avon, N.Y. book. The caption in the “Broth- reads “One! Two! ers and Sisters” I especially enjoyed the winter 2009-10 Three! Up we go article, but on edition of The University Magazine. The as Kappa Sig and Phi Up kick off the page 34, an item “Brothers and sisters” article contained classroom dust at the annual Loaf- in the Planned pictures most familiar to me but I couldn’t ers Leap in the Powers Hotel.” The Giving spread identify any of the students. I was president ladies are, from left, Carole Pfeiffer, about the of Gamma Phi Fraternity (then a local frat) Nan Hart and Laura Thompson. Muntz sisters who, along with their sister sorority, Alpha The legs belong to, from left, Mary needs correct- Psi, conducted the single largest social event Ingersoll, Sally Scott and Dotty ing. It is not at RIT (excluding spring weekend). Harvest Kenyon, all ’54 (retail management) “Irma” Muntz Moon Ball featured big-name bands and

8 | SPRING 2010 vocalists. downtown Rochester 1950-52! Theta sorority and Sigma Nu fraternity Jesse Maffuid ’55 (mechani- Nelson Hodgkins ’52 (publishing and printing) were partnered in a competition for the RIT cal engineering) Pilot Mountain, N.C. Greek Weekend in 2003. We were racing Cambridge, Md. against time doing various obstacles and at The photo labeled as “From one point of the game we formed a human I just received the Techmila 1983, members of the Phi pyramid faster than the other teams. Through winter issue and can Epsilon Kappa make fun of winter” wonderful teamwork and quick strategy, we identify some of the is mislabeled. I was the photo editor celebrated our success. pictures from the ar- of that year’s Techmila and I took that I immediately sent out the link to the chives. In the Cinder- photo out at Mendon Ponds Park. article to other people in the photo through ella photo, the middle They are my sorority sisters from Facebook. The people in the picture were person is Robert Alpha Xi Delta. Dmitri Gadaev, Christopher Samp, Jeff Pratt, Spinney (aka “Archie”) Debra L. Rothenberg ’84 (photo illustration) Eric Shuping, Arthur Pinkhasov, Jason Ricci, and this was a social New York City Alan Fagin, Jessica Freeman, Lindsey Buchko of Kappa Sigma Kappa and Silvia Lopez. fraternity in 1950 or 1951. The men hold- Greek Games I look at this picture thinking how fortu- ing hearts are Kappa Sigma Kappa pledges My friend Alicia DeBusk posted a message nate I was being a Greek member, which has before the Sweetheart Ball in February 1951. on my Facebook page saying that she had made a huge impact with my education at I was the editor of SPRINT and first editor a surprise for me. Through my mind I was RIT. Yeah, go Greek! of the RIT Reporter. RIT was a great basis for thinking my birthday is not until August and Christopher Samp ’06, ’08 (science, technology and future study: B.S. 1953 in graphic arts man- it was too soon to celebrate the holidays, so I public policy) agement from University of Houston, mas- met with her in person. She handed me The Rochester Hills, Mich. ter’s in theology and pastoral counseling 1960 University Magazine and told me go to the from Virginia Theological Seminary, and end. I remembered Matthew Bezaire was tell- Letters can be sent to The University Magazine, Univer- M.S. 1981 in adult learning and development ing me the same thing earlier. sity News Services, Rochester Institute of Technology, from N.C. A.&T. State University. I continue My jaw dropped and a sweet memory 132 Lomb Memorial Drive - Bldg. 86, Rochester, NY to learn from life and work and hope to visit rushed through my mind. I was thrilled 14623. E-mail can be sent to [email protected]. the campus before I die. Some contrast from to come across this picture. Alpha Sigma

SPRING 2010 | 9 About Students

‘Pink Rink’ event raises $21,248 to fight cancer

RIT hockey players and fans traded orange apparel for pink on Jan. 30 and in the process raised $21,248 to fight cancer. Zeta Tau Alpha sorority teamed up with the RIT men’s and women’s hockey teams for the event. An auction of team members’ pink Tiger jerseys raised $9,248 for Rochester General Hospi- tal’s Lipson Cancer Center. Zeta Tau Alpha also raised more than $12,000 from T-shirt sales. Those sales benefited the Susan G. Ko- men Cancer Foundation. “Being a part of ‘Make The Rink Pink’ was such a fun and exciting experience,” says Amy Perazzo, president of Zeta Tau Alpha. “We were so happy with the turnout and pumped to see everybody decked out in pink!” The fundraiser, drawing more than 3,000 fans for both games, also served as an example of the partnership between RIT and Rochester General Health System. The institutions created a strategic alliance in 2008. Fans in RIT’s Corner Crew donned pink T-shirts during Men’s and Women’s Hockey games on Jan. 30, helping to raise more Racquetball ‘team’ has one member than $21,000 for the fight against cancer. (Photo by Dylan Heuer) RIT/NTID freshman Kyle Gahagan loves racquetball so much he’s representing RIT at several collegiate racquetball tournaments— won most of his matches in conferences in Student creates homework help Web site even though he’s the only one on his team. the fall, and made it to the quarterfinals in Tutorii.com, a free Web site developed Gahagan, a biomedical science major from one tournament. It may seem that racquet- by second-year RIT software engineering Parkton, Md., registers for the tournaments, ball is always foremost on his mind – and it student Eric Koslow, provides assistance pays for his hotel and meals and drives back usually is – but Gahagan insists school and with complex high school and college-level and forth to competitions in New Jersey, homework are a greater priority. “All I do is work. Koslow stresses that Tutorri is not a Pennsylvania and Albany. He’ll do this until study and play racquetball,” he says. site that users should expect to visit, find an the racquetball season ends in May. Gahagan easy solution and move on. Instead, Tutorri is designed to help users understand the nature of the problem so they can determine an answer and learn the process behind it. “I really hope that Tutorii can grow and develop,” says Koslow. “It’s only going to be as good as the number of people who use it.”

Kyle Gahagan: sole member of the raquetball team Eric Koslow: started Tutorii.com to help students with school work

10 | SPRING 2010 Top prize for student researcher learning the languages and developing cross- Frisicano earns 2009 NSCAA East Region Dwight Cooke, a graduate student in the cultural skills. third team honors Kate Gleason College of Engineering, won “This was the best trip of my life so far,” Junior defender Sarah Frisicano of the RIT the top award in the graduate research says Seaver, a fourth-year international stud- women’s soccer team was named to the 2009 paper category at the ies major. National Soccer Coaches Association of American Indian Sci- “Not only did I make huge strides America (NSCAA) East Region third team. ence and Engineer- in my Arabic language abilities, but Frisicano becomes the first Tiger since Carol ing Society Confer- I also had experiences that I never Rivers in 2001 to receive this prestigious ence held recently in dreamed I would have.” honor. Frisicano, who also earned 2009 All- Portland, Ore. Empire 8 first team honors, has started every Cooke’s paper, Students present green vehicle game since her freshman year in 2007. She “Modeling the Intru- research in Malaysia also was an All-Empire 8 honorable mention sion of a Gas Diffu- Two undergraduates from the College selection in 2008. sion Layer into Flow of Applied Science and Technology Channels of a Proton presented their green vehicle design Dietz earns CoSIDA/’ESPN The Magazine’ Exchange Membrane paper at the 2009 Small Engine Tech- Academic All-District honors Fuel Cell,” details nology Conference in November in Junior midfielder and co-captain Bret Dietz how the gas diffusion Nicholas Seaver in Egypt. Penang, Malaysia. of the RIT men’s soccer team was named layer material Their paper was one of only 10 to the 2009 CoSIDA/ESPN The Magazine deforms while it is compressed in an international student papers and only two Academic All-District I Men’s Soccer Team. operating fuel cell, he explains. from the United States accepted at the inter- Selections are made based on a combination national event. of academic and athletic excellence. Dietz, Game for visually impaired child Anson Wong and Sakhawat Hossain a civil engineering technology major from wins student design award presented “Inspiring a College Campus to Harrisburg, Pa., was a first team all-district RIT students designed and built an interac- Design, Create and Build Green Small Engine selection with a 3.84 GPA. He was a second tive game for a visually impaired 9-year-old Vehicles” at the conference sponsored by the team all-district selection in 2008. that won first place in the 2009 Institute of Society of Automotive Engineers and Japan Electrical and Electronics Engineers Student Society of Automotive Engineers. Project wins prize from American Packaging Design Awards contest. The students’ paper is about the RIT teams A packaging redesign for Chex Mix cre- The team was awarded $5,000 for the that built alternative energy vehicles for the ated by a team of students won first place hand-held device. Students incorporated an Green Vehicle Challenge event, part of the in a challenge sponsored by the American LCD display, tactile feedback motors, stereo 2009 Imagine RIT: Innovation and Creativity Packaging Corp. Valerie Nadeau and Jessica speakers and a simple user interface to build Festival held last May. Pirrello, both packaging science graduate a model that was both fun and focused on a students, joined Elizabeth Francis, a visual 9-year-old’s sensory development. Burdick earns Empire 8 Runner of the Year media undergrad, and Andrew Maruska and A local physician contacted RIT to design Senior Jared Burdick from Manlius, N.Y., Jessica Billow, both graphic design majors, to and build the game, says Jesse Muszynski, a was named Empire 8 Runner of the Year develop the winning Chex Mix design. Each sixth-year electrical engineering student and after finishing first in the Empire 8 Men’s received $200 from American Packaging Co. member of the RIT IEEE student chapter. Cross Country Championship. Throughout Projects were judged on creative graphic the 2009 season, Burdick proved to be a top design, packaging innovation, sustainability, Air Force ROTC cadets participate competitor in the Empire 8, finishing in the shelf presence and space utilization, along in cultural skills program top-six five different times. He recorded a with solutions for minimizing handling Two Air Force ROTC students from RIT par- season-best time of 24:44 at the Geneseo through distribution and costs to produce ticipated in the Cultural and Language Im- Invitational on Oct. 3. the product. mersion Professional Development Program In addition, he was named Empire 8 Run- American Packaging and General Mills offered by the U.S. Air Force. ner of the Week five times, RIT Male Athlete representatives will review taped presenta- Nicholas Seaver spent several weeks in of the Week two times, and RACA Male Ath- tions by the students to determine how some Egypt and Orion Kellogg traveled to the lete of the Week for the week ending Oct. 18. of their ideas might be incorporated into Czech Republic. The program focused on consumer products.

SPRING 2010 | 11 FREE! 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., SatuRday, may 1, RIt campuS

Innovation key to american success

The Imagine RIT: Inno- vation and Creativity Festival is designed to show what can be accomplished when smart, talented people with diverse strengths work together to solve complex societal problems. The festival, which takes place from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., Saturday, May 1 on the RIT campus, is free and open to the public. Visitors will experience hundreds of interactive exhibits and live performances that are suitable for people RIT President Bill Destler of all ages. “We feel it’s important that today’s young people embrace innovation and creativity,” says RIT Where else can you touch an idea? Join us at the Imagine RIT: President Bill Destler. “Their desire to be different is an innate American characteristic. It is our hope Innovation and Creativity Festival on May 1. Hundreds of examples of that the Imagine RIT: Innovation and Creativity Fes- tival will inspire them to channel that passion in RIT student, faculty and staff innovation and creativity will be on dis- constructive ways that will benefit society.” play. Check out cutting-edge technology, groundbreaking research and world-class artistry. Plus, enjoy interactive exhibits, demonstrations and

STIMULATING FUN live performances. It’s all free and open to the public, rain or shine. FOR ALL AGES Where: RIT campus, Jefferson Road

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, May 1

Admission: Free

Parking: Available on RIT’s campus on a first come first serve basis. Parking is also available at MCC with a free shuttle service to RIT.

What you’ll see: Hundreds of interactive present Imagine RIT has something for everyone. Exhibits ations, exhibitions, handson demonstrations, research range from sophisticated, to old-fashioned festival projects and live performances. fare. Learn about medical informatics and then climb a rock wall. Watch your child operate a Plan your day: Build an itinerary of your favorite robot, then delve into finger painting. Experience exhibits and check out the entire festival program by a day of learning, entertainment and fun. visiting www.rit.edu/imagine.

12B | WINTER| SPRING 2009-10 2010 a day of free fun foR EVERyoNE!

It’s Back! Don’t miss RIT’s signature event: The Imagine RIT: Innovation and Creativity Festival! Explore the diverse strengths of the RIT community through the work of artists, engineers, scientists, designers and more. See you May 1!

Enjoy live performances throughout the day. Witness a concrete canoe float. RIT’s con- Learn about the technology that helps create A wide variety of musical performances, plays, crete canoe team will have its vessel on display. award-winning films. Go inside RIT’s world-class poetry readings and other shows will take place Also, be sure to check out our student designed film and animation studios and witness how the on stages across campus. and constructed Formula race car. magic happens.

Premier Sponsor: What will we think of next? WINTERSPRING 2009-10 2010 | |13 C Alexander Rosenberg (shaping glass piece), artist in residence, works with graduate student Steve Tippin (kneeling) in the SAC glass facility. In back is Professor Robin Cass. Hand-crafting the future School for American Crafts moves into state-of-the-art studios

14 | SPRING 2010 On the 25th anniversary of the School for American Craftsmen, founder Aileen Webb offered the following advice: “The one thing we can’t do is become content with ourselves. We can’t be static. We must move and change with the world. The older people may dislike what the younger people are doing, but that’s too bad. It’s part of life. Move in the vanguard of what the world is pushing you toward. If you do that, I think the school and the graduates of the school will be a tremendous force throughout this country . . .”

Today, as the School for American Crafts has always been distinguished and histori- celebrates its 60th anniversary, the school’s cally significant. And now the contempo- reputation for quality programs and faculty, rary facilities match the reputation of our combined with the caliber of its students and programs.” alumni, make it a force among the top craft schools in the country. RIT has a longstanding reputation for Originally established at Dartmouth in its fine arts offerings, including the crafts 1943, the school moved to Alfred Univer- programs. U.S. News & World Report’s 2009 sity. In 1950, RIT President Mark Ellingson edition of America’s Best Graduate Schools persuaded Mrs. Vanderbilt Webb to bring the ranked RIT near the top in numerous fine school to RIT. arts categories. The glass art program was In the current academic year, the school rated second in the nation. marks another milestone with the opening Some of the school’s faculty forerunners of a new, state-of-the-art facility. RIT Trustee including Frans Wildenhain (ceramics), Hans Richard Hirsch ’71 Richard Sands, chairman of the board of Christensen (metals), Albert Paley (met- Constellation Brands Inc., and members of als), Wendell Castle (wood), and Bill Keyser with Wildenhain. his family donated $2 million toward the (wood) shaped the school’s curriculum in the “After I graduated from RIT, I taught at renovations. Now called the Sands Family early years. Boston University until 1987. RIT Dean Rob- Studios, the 14,000-square-foot area includes Richard Hirsch ’71 (MFA), ceramics pro- ert Johnson asked me to come back to teach expanded studio spaces inside the James E. fessor, was one of the last students to study continued on the next page Booth Building and an addition on the building’s west side. The new facilities include 16 kilns, two glass-blowing furnaces and a work- yard area that students can use for iron pours, welding and raku firing. “Over the years, I have honed my own skills as a wood craftsman,” says Richard Sands. “My family and I are very proud to support the new studios that aim to guide students to discover the intricacies and joy of creating with their hands.” The school offers graduate and undergraduate study in metals and jewelry design, ceramics and ceramic sculpture, glass and glass sculpture, and woodworking and furniture design. “I’ve taught around the world and have seen some stellar facilities, particularly in Japan and Australia,” says Michael Rogers, professor of glass at RIT. “Our facility is now truly of international standards. The school Professor Richard Hirsch, center, leads a ceramics critique. Michael Rogers, professor of glass, is at right.

SPRING 2010 | 15 “When I came to RIT, I found my passion working with metals. There is a lot of humanism in my sculpture. I’m taking my own emotional outlook on my life and transferring that into my art.” Ben Wilson, fourth-year metals student

continued from previous page There is a lot of humanism in my and fill Wildenhain’s role. This was a great sculpture. I’m taking my own honor for me.” emotional outlook on my life and Hirsch says the programs have evolved to transferring that into my art.” reflect changes in the mediums. Wilson, who transferred to “In 1971, the ceramics students were either RIT from the University of New making pottery or vessels. Today there is a Hampshire as a biology major, huge spectrum of work from functional pot- aspires to run his own studio tery to vessels to figurative sculpture to instal- someday. lations. And there is a new interest in mixed “It probably would be easier media throughout the school. With the new for me to find a job in the medi- facility we are able to accommodate more cal field as a physician assistant interaction and collaboration among artists.” than a job in the arts. I know I Ben Wilson, a fourth-year metals student will have to work hard. I know I and native of Watertown, Conn., spends a will have to be really hungry to lot of time in the new forge area working on start my own studio.” his sculptures. He credits his metals professors, Juan-Carlos Caballero-Perez ’94, ’01 It’s that hunger that has led (metalcrafts and jewelry, MFA) and Len Urso, to accolades for Gail Fredell ’80 for his success at RIT. Last year, Wilson won a (MFA). Fredell and one of her $15,000 scholarship from an endowment es- classmates, Wendy Maruyama, tablished at RIT by Tiffany & Co. Foundation. were the first two women in the “It’s gratifying to be recognized for my country to earn MFAs in woodwork,” says Wilson. “When I came to RIT, working. I found my passion working with metals. “It’s not that women weren’t already making furniture and taking classes, it’s just that Wendy and I happened to be at RIT at the right time when the university started giving master of fine arts degrees in woodwork- Ben Wilson works in the forge area in the new Sands Family Studios. ing,” says Fredell. Fredell attended U.C. Berkeley for archi- the furniture program at Anderson Ranch tecture as an undergraduate. Before coming Arts Center in Snowmass Village, Colo., from to RIT, she worked in residential remodel 1993 through 2001. She now lives in Ashe- design and construction, becoming a licensed ville, N.C., and maintains her furniture studio general contractor along the way. business and works as director of programs “I always encourage undergraduate stu- and development for the Furniture Society. dents to work in their field of interest during Her work is in the permanent collections summer breaks and following graduation and of the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art to learn from the mistakes and wisdom of and the Oakland Museum. Fredell’s major seasoned makers. If, after that, they still think commissions have included benches for the this is the career for them, then graduate AIDS Memorial Grove in Golden Gate Park school can be very beneficial to furthering and 110 chairs and an altar for Stanford Uni- one’s knowledge, skills and aesthetic voice. versity Memorial Chapel. I have boundless gratitude for the graduate “Furniture making can be a difficult study opportunity I had at RIT. I was very career path,” she says, “but the challenges are fortunate.” matched by the ever-present opportunities Fredell’s career has included teaching at for personal growth, artistic expression and the California College of Arts and Rhode membership in a great community of gener- Gail Fredell ’80 now makes her home in Asheville, N.C., Island School of Design and at workshop ous and creative people.” where she maintains her furniture studio business. programs nationwide. She was director of Kelly Downs

16 | SPRING 2010 Performing arts at NTID provide extraordinary experiences for students and audiences

For 40 years, the National Technical Institute for the Deaf has literally set the stage for thousands of students to participate in theater arts. Dance productions, original plays, poetry, musicals and Shakespeare are all performed in front of appreciative and entertained audiences. The words on stage are spoken in signlanguage at the same time another actor – often in the background – voices what is being signed,

This production of Arthur Miller’s ‘The Crucible’ so hearing audience members as well as those knowing sign language was staged in February 2006. can follow along.

SPRING 2010 | 17 “NTID is one of a handful of places in culture,” Orr says. “But beyond that, it’s the the entire world that produce this form of whole sense of, ‘I can do this. Not only can theater,” says Jim Orr, the theater’s com- I do this, I can excel at this.’ Many of our munity relations and production manager students have always wanted to be an actor and an integral member of NTID’s Theater or dancer but have never had either the Department since 1984. “I think we’re one of encouragement or the confidence to give it the best kept secrets around, but we do want a shot. Once they’re here and find out they everyone to know about us.” can do something beautifully and people NTID offers students a comprehensive applaud, that’s an enormous impact for their 1 choice of theater courses, design, history, self-esteem.” 2 dance and movement. A shop behind the Robert F. Panara Theatre is where you’ll find The Early Years students busy cutting, sawing, nailing and NTID Theater’s origins go back to 1967, a painting wood as they earn college credits year before the first NTID students set foot while building sets for the productions. on campus. That is when NTID Founding “On an annual basis, we serve an average Director D. Robert Frisina asked for funding of more than 500 NTID students who take a to build the Lyndon Baines Johnson Building class or are involved in a show either on stage for NTID, including plans for a full theater as or backstage,” Orr says. “These are credit- opposed to an auditorium. Frisina wanted the bearing classes.” theater designed to bring deaf and hearing Some of the students take the courses to people together with productions intended complete a certificate program. Others take to enhance literature classes while providing them as electives, and some students transfer self-confidence to students. their credits to the School of Film and Ani- The first person Frisina hired for NTID’s mation in RIT’s College of Imaging Arts and faculty was Robert F. Panara, an educator Sciences. who had helped start the National Theatre 3 The theater is open to the entire RIT fam- of the Deaf. At NTID, Panara established the ily – whether deaf or hearing – as well as the NTID English Department and organized the greater Rochester community and interns NTID Drama Club. NTID’s Performing Arts from colleges across the country. But there program began as an extracurricular activity, is a strong following for the shows at NTID but evolved into an academic program of among deaf audience members because sign merit, according to From Dream to Reality, a language is used. history of NTID written by NTID Professor “We level a lot of playing fields,” Orr Harry Lang. says. “Having a show where they plunk an Panara, who turns 90 in July, recalls about interpreter on the side of the stage or a show 200 students participating in the earliest years where they have a little captioning box makes of NTID Theater. It began after a nationally it accessible, but it’s not direct accessibility. known deaf actor, Bernard Bragg, paid a visit It’s not a deaf person’s language or experience. to campus. Doing what we do, with signing actors, expert “The opportunity to ‘break a leg’ happened translation with simultaneous voicing by in the fall of 1969 when we invited my old other actors in the background is a huge door friend, Bernard Bragg, of the National The- opener. To me, theater is a deep-seated uni- atre of the Deaf to do a presentation for our versal experience. The first people on earth students,” Panara says. “Naturally I grabbed um,” Panara says. “After three hours of debate, were communicating through storytelling. To the chance to also have Bragg lead a work- a vote was held to establish the NTID Drama have this as a human experience, this deep shop on dramatics and on the side, do an Club. Membership was open to all, the dues connection, we can open up that door for our interview with me in RIT’s newly established being $5 per year.” The Drama Club, called the deaf students. It’s a tremendous experience.” TV studio. The workshop proved so popular Masquers, is still a popular activity today. Most stage productions rely on backstage that we decided to have some students take Students Guy Wonder, Charles Baird, Fred crew members to communicate through part in Bragg’s performance the next evening Gravatt and Kevin Nolan were among the headsets. At NTID, cueing systems are in Ingle Auditorium. Bragg used up the first Drama Club’s first officers. To help commem- done on video. The crew on each side of the half to show his artistry in mime and dra- orate the 40th anniversary of NTID Theater, stage, in the production booth and the stage matic monologues and our students went on Nolan ’71 (business administration) returned manager – who is responsible to give cues for stage the second half to rise and shine with to campus last fall with a supporting role lights, sound, set and costume changes and improvised skits and pantomimes.” in Equus. actor entrances – can all be deaf and com- The popularity of those shows led to a “I’m thrilled to be coming back for the municate with each other. discussion about forming a drama club the play,” Nolan said. “It’s special to me because The theater also allows deaf audiences to next quarter. it’s the 40th anniversary. It’s nice to be back share experiences from popular culture, such “That was realized one windy, freezing one more time. And I’m so happy to see as jokes about current events. night in January 1969, when we trudged that NTID Theater is going well and it has a “This way, everyone is on par with modern through the snow to meet in Webb Auditori- strong program. It makes me feel good.”

18 | SPRING 2010 1. ‘Pinnochio,’ May 2006. 2. ‘Lysistrata,’ December 2005. 3. ‘The Passion of Dracula,’ October 2005. 4. ‘Bell in Hell,’ April 2008. 5. ‘Equus,’ November 2009. 6. ‘The Wall,’ 1975, the first original play created by NTID students. 4

Too! – with deaf and hearing students – took the NTID Theater on the road for 20 years as they performed at schools throughout the U.S. and other countries. Dancers from NTID have also performed at out-of-town festivals and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Beth Ann Bull Crouch was a member of Sunshine Too! for two years. She first got the acting bug when she came to NTID in 1985 and joined the theater. Soon after, she was Immediate Ovations cast in a national McDonald’s commercial Within months of its creation, half of the 6 featuring only sign language. NTID students had joined the Drama Club, “My main reason to join the theater was Panara says. The club continued to present a to gain experiences and to improve my ASL,” complete show each quarter in the school year. she says. “… And to have fun! After one pro- “This activity not only provided students ally, taught for several years at NTID and still duction, I wanted to do more.” with opportunities to express themselves and translates some productions. He says watch- Her tours with Sunshine Too! created be creative, but also to develop confidence, ing his students gain confidence and blossom lasting memories. “I remember how much self-pride and a better understanding and into leaders is what foremost comes to mind the students and even adults always had big appreciation of literary works including plays, when he thinks of NTID Theater. smiles on their faces while watching us per- stories and poems,” Panara says. Graybill says there is a common miscon- form,” she says. Then called the Experimental Educational ception about theater classes: that students Theater, the NTID theater program was one spend the time playing around instead of Selling the Shows of the first programs to use television to tape working. “In fact, theater is an excellent Years ago, it was common to sell out Panara auditions and productions. discipline to train students to improve their Theatre. Decades ago, entertainment options In the fall of 1974, the LBJ Building command of English and American Sign such as captioned movies – either at home or opened, along with its new theater, later Language, to learn to set up their daily sched- at a theater – weren’t as common for deaf au- named to honor Panara. ule of responsibilities, to become leaders and diences. Live performances in sign language “The ‘home of our own’ became official to learn how to do research work. Many of were a unique entertainment option. when the curtains opened to show the first our graduates eventually became not only “The deaf community is somewhat differ- scene of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the actors or directors, but leaders in their area of ent today,” Orr says. “Now with the Internet Shrew and the beginning of a new era of big expertise. They are role models for our future and videogames and captioned movies and stage productions,” Panara says. deaf and hard-of-hearing children.” access to so many more popular culture av- Bonnie Meath-Lang, NTID’s artistic direc- Since the Robert F. Panara Theatre opened, enues, deaf people have a lot more choices.” tor, says those early days were groundbreaking the 466-seat venue remains the focal point Deciding what shows to produce each year in deaf theater. And NTID Performing Arts for NTID theater programs. More than 200 is a thought-out process. Students and audi- became a hub of deaf literature and poetry. performances have been produced there. ences are surveyed and directors spend a lot “Basically it was a place where a new art Notable deaf performers including Bernard of time reading scripts they’d like to produce. form was being introduced to the greater Bragg, Howie Seago, Phyllis Frelich, Linda The educational goals, number of people in community,” she says. “It was before a lot of Bove, Camille Jeter and Michael Thomas have the cast, gender breakdown, nontraditional the research on American Sign Language graced the Panara stage. castings and the cost to produce the play are all was published. People were becoming aware But the productions weren’t limited to factored. And the shows must offer a balance. of the creative possibilities for both ASL and the Panara Theatre. In past years, students You can’t always have shows that are heavy dra- visual theater.” performed off Broadway in New York City. mas, silly comedies or that appeal to children. Patrick Graybill, who has acted profession- A touring theatrical group called Sunshine “We want to have a variety,” Orr says.

SPRING 2010 | 19 “We don’t judge the success of the show by the number of people who sit in the audience. NTID performing arts by the Numbers If it was only about drawing audience mem- 500+: The number of students who participate in NTID Theater each year. This includes bers, we would do a big name play or musical classes, workshops, tours and productions. every single time. But that doesn’t necessarily 95: Performing Arts students and interns who have gone on to work in professional serve our students.” theater and film, including Broadway, national touring companies, the National Theatre For last year’s production of Alice in Won- of the Deaf, Garth Fagan Dance, and Deaf West Theatre. Students have also appeared in derland, 180 people auditioned for about 20 television commercials and productions. roles. Still, about 100 students were involved 80: The percentage of NTID Performing Arts students who are deaf or hard of hearing. with the production, including stage manag- Theater classes are open to hearing students who also participate as voice actors and stage ers, lighting crew and set design and building. crew. Many students learn sign language and forge friendships through NTID Theater. “Live theater attendance is a challenge for 1976: The year Andrew Lloyd Weber and Tim Rice’s popular musical Joseph and the everyone. We’ve always had good houses. Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat was performed on the NTID stage. It was the American And we still do very, very well,” Orr says. premiere of the musical. “Now we attract a wider audience than we 200+: Plays and performances produced by NTID Performing Arts in its 40-year history. did in the past. In the glory days of huge bud- Several have won awards, such as the 2002 Off-Off-Broadway Review Award for Excel- gets, we were attracting a lot more students in lence for The Emperor Jones. a shorter amount of time. Now, the shows are 25: Theater classes offered in acting, stagecraft, sign/mime, dance, theater history and spread out more, and we’re getting a lot more translation. people from the community and out of state. 4,000-7,500: Annual audience members at NTID productions in the past 10 years, not There are more and more hearing people who counting touring productions. enjoy this form of theater.” 9: Number of students who received Performing Arts Scholarships for creativity last year. Six productions are now scheduled each year. Course work, not only in performing arts, but in other classes at NTID/RIT, is a large scale, sometimes it is done on a small a ‘family’ here often connected to specific productions. scale. But the quality is always on a high level. at RIT,” says While the Panara Theatre seats 466 people, Because we are one of the only theaters in the Luane Hag- a classroom lab, Room 1510 in the Lyndon world doing this type of thing, the quality of gerty Davis, an Baines Johnson Building, is where other plays our productions is much higher than many instructor in are offered, with up to 75 audience members. college programs that have majors in theater. NTID’s Theater “The lab is a more intimate, black box I think we blow people away. We’re on a level Department. theater where productions are held by stu- similar to regional theaters. We have a real “Our students dents who have directed their own shows or commitment to quality. The abilities that our have a natural are written by the students,” Orr said. Those students have, the commitment our students hunger to do shows are almost always sold out. make to us and the craft are an unexpected theater, poetry There are students from every major at gift. If you’ve grown up your entire life com- and storytell- RIT involved in NTID Theater. The experi- municating visually – and theater is all about ing. Once we ence gives students the opportunity to inter- visual communication – the people who engage them, act with other students from different majors, come and are involved in the theater have a great things The program from ‘The Silent and different years on campus. commitment that is very professional. These happen. I truly Stage,’ produced in 1970. “Everything we do is about the education are people who are very serious about what believe we have of our students,” Orr says. “We want to give they want to do.” some of the our students a wide variety of experience Nearly 100 NTID students have gone on most talented students in the world right here and exposure. Sometimes theater is done on to work professionally in theater or film after and that our productions rival any other col- graduation. lege theater department.” “One of the things She says she’s seen positive changes that a I’m most proud of – theater experience can have on parents, even though we have as well. no theater major, when “I was standing beside a parent backstage you look at people during a production of West Side Story. She who are deaf who have turned to me and said, ‘You know, when my worked professionally, daughter was little I had a hard time really the overwhelming ma- believing that she could succeed in life, really jority are our students,” grow up to be independent. I went ahead and Orr says. acted as though I believed it but it wasn’t until Theater experiences right now, watching her interact with every- touch everyone differ- one backstage, not needing any help, seeing ently. her be so confidant and mature. Right now is “I love the possi- the first moment I truly believed.’ ” bilities of igniting the Greg Livadas NTID’s first faculty member was Robert Panara, seated, center. He organized the creative spark in stu- For more information and upcoming shows, visit college’s drama club, the Masquers, still a popular activity today. dents, to help them find www.rit.edu/ntid/theatre

20 | SPRING 2010 Labors ofLove When RIT grads pursue their passions, the results are amazing. On the following pages, you’ll meet eight alumni who are following their hearts to extraordinary careers.

Patricia A. Moore ’74 Rick Kittles ’89 Jeffrey Culver ’82 David Kidder ’95

Elan Lee ’98 Steve Yucknut ’89 Virginia ‘Ginny’ Clark Keith Major ’84 ’06, ’08

SPRING 2010 | 21 Patricia Moore: Design for life

After graduating from transportation design, market analysis and RIT in 1974, Patricia A. Moore product positioning. Her long list of clients (industrial design) went to work in includes AT&T, Boeing, Corning Glass, the New York City office of Raymond General Electric, Herman Miller, Johnson & Loewy, one of the most prominent Johnson, Kimberly Clark, NASA, Marriott, designers of the 20th century. Procter & Gamble, Seoul (Korea) Design It was a wonderful opportunity, City Project, 3M and many others. but she admits to being something “We’re currently designing the light rail of a malcontent. She repeatedly vehicles for Cincinnati, Phoenix and Hono- questioned why products were being lulu,” she says. “We’re also helping to create designed without consideration for physical rehabilitation environments for the people of different abilities. Could soldiers returning from war with injuries that someone with arthritis operate that require that they relearn the skills for every- switch? Could someone in a wheel- day living with special technologies chair reach that handle? Could an and prosthetics.” older person open that door? She is an adjunct professor of industrial “Very quickly, I became known design at Arizona State University and has as the one who was looking after the lectured at universities worldwide. She was disenfranchised,” says Moore, now an named by ID Magazine as one of The 40 internationally renowned authority Most Socially Conscious Designers in the on inclusive design. world and ABC World News featured Moore’s sensitivity to the needs Moore as one of 50 Americans Defining of people of all ages and abilities led the New Millennium. to an extraordinary experiment. At The work keeps her on the go. age 26, she transformed herself into “I fly 200 days of the year,” she says. “I’ve a range of women over the age of 80. been doing that since 1980. It’s a lifestyle, not The disguises involved more than At age 26, Patricia A. Moore ’74 went undercover disguised as a a choice. I need to go where the action is.” makeup and clothing: She altered her woman in her 80s to learn first-hand about the obstacles faced by She’s traveled many miles from her home body with prosthetics that blurred older people. Her findings changed her life. in Buffalo, but she’s never lost touch with her her vision, reduced her ability to hear roots. Moore attributes her interest in the and limited her motion. She relied on canes, walkers and a wheelchair. Her “Very quickly, I became known as the one who was looking after portrayals included the homeless and wealthy the disenfranchised.” matrons, elders who were quite fit and those who struggled with illness and the effects Patricia A. Moore ’74 of time. From 1979 to 1982, she was in the roles for the quality of life of consum- disenfranchised and older people about every third day for as much as 20 hours ers,” says Moore. “The need for to being raised with grandparents at a time. The experiment took her to 116 cit- ‘humanism’ in design has never at home. ies in 14 states and two Canadian provinces. been more critical.” She chose RIT “because I knew She says that as time went on, the project Moore notes that ageism I couldn’t be too far away from took on a life of its own. She sometimes had persists, along with other forms my family.” Initially, she planned a difficulty getting back to her “real” life. of prejudice against people with major in medical illustration. But “It was very rigorous,” Moore says. The differing needs (she rejects the early in her studies, Leland Smith, a makeup damaged her skin, and a severe mug- label “disabled”). professor in the new industrial de- ging at the hands of a gang of youths left her “The compartmentalization of Patricia A. Moore ’74 sign program, saw Moore working with serious, permanent injuries. people – that really gets my Irish on a metal sculpture. “He asked me Ultimately, the undertaking set the stage up,” she says. if I knew what industrial design was for her life’s work. “My whole life is about Moore expanded her education with and gave me a stack of ID Magazines .” applying that experience.” advanced studies in biomechanics at New She decided to make a change. Smith and It’s important work. Moore notes that more York University’s Medical School & Rusk professors Toby Thompson and Craig McArt than 13 percent of Americans are over age 65 Institute and earned graduate degrees in became her mentors. She could not have and that percentage continues to grow. In ad- psychology and counseling and in human foreseen where her decision would lead, but dition, one in three Americans has a cognitive development (social gerontology) from she knew one thing: “I just loved it.” or physical condition that requires compensa- Columbia University. That is just as true today. tory means to accomplish daily activities. Now president of MooreDesign Associates Kathy Lindsley “As a force for creation and change, design- in Phoenix, Moore has worked in the areas Moore is the author of Disguised: A True Story (1985), ers need to step back, analyze our mission, of communication design, product develop- The Business of Aging (2010) and Ouch! Why Bad Design and retake our role as responsible providers ment, environmental design, package design, Hurts (upcoming).

22 | SPRING 2010 Jeffrey Culver: Providing security in an uncertain world

The protection of U.S. embassies ton’s key security advisers, and diplomats serving in foreign nations, and assisting in managing and the security of U.S. businesses and citizens op- implementing erating overseas are central security concerns the department’s anti- for American policymakers – particularly terrorism and disaster given the current global threat environment. preparedness initiatives A key actor in the government’s effort to around the world. For protect U.S. foreign operations is Jeffrey Cul- example, nearly 50 Dip- ver ’82 (criminal justice), who has spent more lomatic Security agents than two decades as a special agent and senior were deployed to Haiti law enforcement executive with the U.S. following the earthquake Department of State’s Diplomatic Security that ravaged the country Service (DSS). in January, to provide In October 2009, U.S. Secretary of State security assistance to U.S. Jeffrey Culver ’82 Hillary Rodham Clinton appointed him to Consular Affairs personnel one of the department’s top law enforcement and Haitian officials. posts as principal deputy assistant Secretary Culver’s long career in the U.S. Foreign will continue to increase over the coming of State for the Bureau of Diplomatic Security Service began in 1987. Over the years he has years, in support of the United States’ overall and director of the Diplomatic Security Ser- served as a regional security officer at U.S. security goals. vice. In this position, Culver manages security embassies in Tel Aviv, Israel; Nairobi, Kenya; “The DSS is currently working in conflict operations at U.S. embassies and diplomatic Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Abu Dhabi, United environments and taking on roles we would missions abroad and 28 field and resident Arab Emirates; and New Delhi, India. He has not have been asked to do 10 years ago,” notes offices domestically; oversees protective also held posts as director of the Diplomatic Culver. “This requires management to take a operations for senior U.S. diplomats includ- Security Office of Antiterrorism Assistance broader look at our operations and how they ing the Secretary of State; and directs efforts and as chief of the Diplomatic Security fit into U.S. military and intelligence goals, to to enhance security and support for U.S. Criminal Investigations division. better protect our nation as a whole.” businesses and citizens operating in foreign “I have always had a passion for law Culver also argues that DSS and its agents nations through the DS Overseas Security enforcement, even prior to enrolling at RIT,” are up to the task, in part because of the expe- Advisory Council. he says. “I joined the Diplomatic Security riences they face on the job every day. “The Diplomatic Security Service is unique Service because I was looking for a challenge “Diplomatic Security special agents are among law enforcement agencies because, on and wanted to make the world a better place.” often the first line of defense in protecting the top of our security and enforcement respon- As director, Culver is focused on improv- safety and lives of thousands of Americans sibilities, we also have key protection and ing the overall preparedness and training of living in unstable countries across the globe,” diplomatic functions supporting U.S. foreign special agents while also advancing Diplo- he concludes. “DSS can be referred to as a policy goals,” notes Culver. “Our officers matic Security’s ability to manage security ‘baptism by fire,’ and I believe this gives our have to function as both policing agents and operations, often in hostile environments agents and managers the ability to provide diplomats, which requires specialized skills such as Afghanistan, Iraq and Yemen. Given the security support our nation currently and a keen understanding of the nations they the continued threat of terrorist attacks on needs.” are working in.” U.S. targets overseas, Culver also believes that Will Dube ’09 Culver also serves as one of Secretary Clin- Diplomatic Security Service’s responsibilities

Steve Yucknut: Global responsibility at KraftFoods

You’ve scooped from Yucknut is responsible for build- leadership of CEO Irene Rosenfeld, who took the Breyers Ice Cream package, ing sustainability into the business the helm in 2006, the company began looking the familiar box with rounded strategy of the world’s second largest at doing more to incorporate sustainability corners and tight-fitting cover. food company. into all business decisions. Steve Yucknut ’89 (packaging “We’re looking to make a lasting “The idea right from the get-go was this is science) designed that package, difference,” says Yucknut. “We’re all about meaningful change,” says Yucknut. which replaced the folded paper incorporating sustainability into our The stakes are high: to ensure the long-term cartons that once were the stan- business decisions, to help guide our health of the company and the planet. dard package for bricks of ice thinking and our actions. We’re mak- It turns out that sustainability is good cream. He also helped design Steve Yucknut ’89 ing it part of our recipe for success.” business. the equipment that makes it. In truth, says Yucknut, who “Customers want to do business with Now he has a bigger chal- has worked for the company since partners who support sustainability,” says lenge. Much bigger. As vice president for 1987, “Kraft has been doing a good job with Yucknut. “Consumers want to buy products sustainability at KraftFoods Inc. since 2007, sustainability for a long time.” But under the continued on the next page

SPRING 2010 | 23 continued from the previous page from companies that ‘get it.’ And employees Rick Kittles: Finding his roots in DNA research want to work for companies that respect and preserve the world around them. Everyone Rick Kittles ’89 (biology) has tracing their roots. is realizing we can minimize the impact on devoted his career to the study of genetics. “That really came out of the environment, help society and increase But early on, the subject held very little my interest in finding my revenue and profit.” interest for him. own African connections,” KraftFoods – and Yucknut – are focusing “It seemed too abstract,” says Kittles. “It says Kittles. By comparing efforts in six areas: agricultural commodities; didn’t seem very relevant to me.” his own DNA to samples packaging; energy; water; waste; and trans- Then, during his first year in grad school, in a database, he learned portation/distribution. Starting with 2005 he read a scientific paper on human mtDNA that his ancestors came as a base, the company has established some variation. The article explored mtDNA varia- from Nigeria, Senegal and aggressive goals to be achieved by 2011: tion around the world and indicated that all Germany. He found that • Reduce plant energy usage by 25 percent human beings descended from one female many others were inter- • Reduce plant energy-related carbon diox- who lived in Africa around 200,000 years ago ested in this. ide emissions by 25 percent – the “African Eve.” “I hope it has been • Reduce plant water consumption by 15 “That got me really excited about genetics,” helpful to people,” he says. percent says Kittles, associate professor in the Sec- “For many African Ameri- • Reduce plant waste by 15 percent tion of Genetic Medicine of the Department cans, information about • Eliminate 150 million pounds of packag- of Medicine at the University of Chicago. where their ancestors ing material Kittles’ research focuses on the role of genetic came from has been lost. “We’re doing real well in all areas,” says background in disease, particularly looking at There’s a richness in know- Yucknut. “It’s really heartening to see the health disparities related to race. His current ing that. It’s one piece of positive support. Sustainability has become research involves study of genetic changes who we are.” everybody’s job.” related to prostate cancer. The connections Kittles’ work in this Here’s one of the efforts he’s involved in: are complex and intriguing. area has received sig- In February, 2009, KraftFoods and other “I’ll be busy for a long time,” he says. “This nificant media attention. industry, government and non-governmental is a lifetime worth of work.” Notably, he was featured organizations joined with the Bill & Melinda Kittles began his career as a high school in BBC films Motherland: Gates Foundation to pledge a total of $90 science teacher. But working in public schools A Genetic Journey (2003) million over five years to boost the incomes wasn’t completely satisfying. “I wanted to and Motherland – Moving of cocoa and cashew farmers in Africa. The teach, to mentor, but I also wanted to have my On (2004). He has also projects aim to strengthen the long-term vi- own research to pursue.” appeared in the PBS series ability of the West African cocoa and cashew He was in a biology master’s degree African American Lives industries. program at State University of New York at and African American With the potential of improving the liveli- Brockport in 1991 and earned a Ph.D. in Lives 2 and CBS’ hoods of 200,000 cashew farmers and 250,000 biology from George Washington Univer- 60 Minutes. in cocoa production, “It’s win-win. We’re sity (1998). Kittles worked with the New His interest in African helping people help themselves.” says Yuck- York African Burial Ground Project in New American issues was nut. Plus, there’s an opportunity to improve York City, gathering DNA samples from the evident at RIT, where he the supply chain, which benefits KraftFoods. remains and comparing them with samples served as president of the Yucknut says his background in operations from a DNA database to determine where in Black Awareness Coordi- was key in his being chosen as the company’s Africa the individuals had come from. nating Committee. Kittles Rick Kittles ’89 (Photo by Dan Dry) first VP for sustainability. Prior to taking In 1998, Kittles became an assistant profes- was instrumental in bring- on that job, he was senior director of manufacturing business development and engineering. “For many African Americans, information about where their ances- His 23-year career with KraftFoods has tors came from has been lost. There’s a richness in knowing that.” included work as an engineer/scientist across Rick Kittles ’89 a variety of divisions and product lines. He holds five patents. He also earned an MBA in operations management from DePaul sor of microbiology at Howard University. ing the controversial Nation of Islam leader University. He also served as director of the African Louis Farrakhan to campus. He started at KraftFoods with a co-op job American Hereditary Prostate Cancer Study “I remember being at odds with the ad- in research and development for Post Cereals. Network at the university’s National Human ministration at times,” Kittles recalls. He also “The RIT co-op program made all the Genome Center and co-directed the mo- co-hosted a late-night radio show, The Unique difference in the world,” says Yucknut, who lecular genetics unit of Howard University’s Beat, on WITR with Phil Thorne ’90 (film has a deep appreciation for RIT’s balance of National Human Genome Center. and video), and served as business director classroom teaching and hands-on experience. In 2003, while continuing his work at How- of WITR. “The education I got was second to none.” ard, Kittles co-founded African Ancestry Inc. For Kittles, who considered attending Kathy Lindsley (www.AfricanAncestry.com), a genetic testing Howard University, RIT turned out to be the service available to individuals interested in right choice.

24 | SPRING 2010 Rick Kittles: Finding his roots in DNA research Ginny Clark: Shining bright at Constellation

You might wonder if Virginia “It was Marvin Sands who gave me my “Ginny” Clark has had time to breathe in start,” Clark says. In 1998, she went to Rich- the past decade. ard Sands with a proposal to operate a travel In addition to earning bachelor’s and department within the company. “My goal master’s degrees from RIT (’06, ’08, hospital- was to save $250,000 in the first year,” Clark ity and service management), she has served says. Sands connected her with a top com- as vice president for Community Affairs at pany financial officer, and “We saved a half Constellation Brands Inc., an international million dollars in the first nine months.” producer and distributor of premium wines, The rapidly growing company changed its beers and spirits with annual sales totaling name to Constellation Brands in 2000. Clark $3.77 billion. Clark oversaw two major com- went from the travel department into public munity projects connected to Constellation: and government relations and then into her construction of the $13.5 million Constella- current job. She now also works with Richard tion Brands Marvin Sands Perform- and Robert Sands ing Arts Center (known as CMAC) on philanthropic and construction of the $7.5 million activities on be- New York Wine and Culinary Center half of the Sands (NYWCC), both in her hometown of family as well as Canandaigua, N.Y. the company. “Both broke ground in the same “I love doing week, and both opened on time and that. You can on budget nine months later, in June see the immedi- 2006,” says Clark, who now serves as ate results in the executive director for CMAC and a community,” says board member for NYWCC. Clark. Often, she In 2007, Constellation presi- helps find and dent and CEO Robert Sands asked work with part- Clark to spearhead building of the ners to further le- company’s new global headquarters verage the impact Virginia ‘Ginny’ Clark ’06, ’08 in Victor, N.Y. At the same time, she of each project. worked with Constellation Board “It’s bringing the Chairman Richard Sands on a $7 mil- public and private sectors together for the lion campaign to expand the Canandaigua betterment of our community that allows YMCA. She’s also been involved in fundrais- everyone to succeed.” ing for Finger Lakes Community College A case in point is the New York Wine Foundation, the Greater Canandaigua Family and Culinary Center. In 2004, after acquir- YMCA and Mercy Flight Central. ing Robert Mondavi Corp., Constellation

“I used a lot of my professional experience in school.” Rick Kittles ’89 (Photo by Dan Dry) Virginia Clark Ridder ’06, ’08

“I wouldn’t have changed anything. RIT For all of this and more, Clark was became the world’s largest winemaker. Robert was a great experience, and I’m not just say- honored by the Canandaigua Chamber of Sands was impressed with Robert Mondavi’s ing that for this interview. I was challenged. I Commerce and the Business and Professional role in making California’s Napa Valley a was nurtured.” Women’s Club as 2009 Athena Award recipi- world-renowned wine and culinary region He tries to do the same with his own stu- ent. The prestigious award is given annually and major tourist destination. Determined to dents. “I try to inspire my students that their to a woman who demonstrates excellence, support New York’s wine industry in a similar life’s work should be for more than financial creativity and initiative in their profession; manner, Sands came up with the idea for gain,” he says. Pursuing work that you love contributes to the community; and assists the NYWCC. The New York Wine & Grape is much more satisfying, Kittles has learned women in realizing leadership potential. Foundation signed on, and Rochester-based from experience. Clark’s career began in the 1970s, when Wegmans Food Markets became a partner, “When you get to do exactly what you she returned to Canandaigua after graduating bringing together industry, agricultural and want to do, I think that’s a blessing. Not many from Herkimer County (N.Y.) Community culinary aspects of the project. people can do that.” College and opened a travel agency. What was “The final prong was hospitality educa- Kathy Lindsley then Canandaigua Wine Company became tion,” says Clark, and RIT became the fourth her first major client – although company founding partner. For more information about Kittles’ work, visit http:// founder Marvin Sands told her only four That’s when Clark met Francis Domoy, genemed.bsd.uchicago.edu/~kittleslab/. people in the company traveled frequently. continued on the next page

SPRING 2010 | 25 continued from the previous page director of RIT’s School of Hospitality and Elan Lee: Alternate reality superhero Service Management. “There was an immediate connection,” she says. “I had always You’re watching a TV show. wanted to go back to school. It was Fran who The lead character picks up the phone and really opened that door.” punches in a number. Balancing a demanding job, numerous out- And your cell phone rings. She’s calling side activities, family and school was challeng- you and now you’re part of the story – not ing, she admits, but she earned her bachelor’s just a viewer. and continued for a master’s degree, using her This will happen in the very near future work on CMAC as her thesis project. – and Elan Lee ’98 (computer science) is in “I used a lot of my professional experience the forefront of this coming “convergence of in school,” Clark says. “The coursework made entertainment.” me really think about redoing the business “Imagine the best movie, the best book, plan for CMAC, and looking at it beyond just the best TV show you’ve ever seen,” says Lee. the construction.” “They’re all a series of scenes. The question is, The outdoor venue (formerly Finger how do you use your life as part of a story- Lakes Performing Arts Center) had often telling mechanism? We use computers, cell incurred operating deficits. Constellation, as phones, e-mail, social media, Web sites – the a supporting partner, typically made up the things we all use every day – to tell the story.” Elan Lee ’98 differences. Under the new business plan, and Developing entertainment experiences with Clark as executive director, the facility has been Lee’s passion since his days at RIT. who followed the clues could eventually un- is now successful and brings in top perform- “I got an amazing internship with Indus- ravel the mystery, told through thousands of ing artists from across the country. trial Lights & Magic,” he says. During his stint Web pages. The Beast ultimately attracted “RIT gave me much more confidence in with the Academy Award-winning special 2 million followers over six months. myself,” she says, “and a much broader way of effects production company, Lee worked on “It was a huge amount of work, but really thinking.” the 1999 George Lucas film Star Wars Episode fun,” says Lee. Domoy, who continues to work with Clark I: The Phantom Menace. And the game proved to be a marvel- in connection with the New York Wine and He discovered that he “loved making ous promotional vehicle. Lee left Microsoft Culinary Center, calls her a community asset. beautiful images” much more than writing in 2003 to co-found 42 Entertainment. The “Her ability to bring people together to computer code. “When I graduated, I knew I company gained acclaim for I Love Bees, an focus on social and economic issues is stag- wanted to go big and bold.” alternate reality game that served as a highly gering,” he says. “Ginny has a great passion ILM offered him a full-time job, but then successful viral marketing campaign for the for efforts that strengthen the fabric of the he met “a very clever recruiter from Micro- 2004 release of the video game Halo 2. community.” soft” who suggested that Lee might want to In 2006, Lee co-founded EDOC Laundry, Clark credits her family with helping her try something new. And at Microsoft, “They which produced alternate reality games in reach her goals. Husband Rob Clark “is my had this crazy new thing called Xbox.” which consumers could follow clues hidden biggest fan.” Her daughter, Shaunna Bailey, a Lee became lead game designer for the within clothing. He is currently chief designer lawyer in Washington, D.C., graduated from 2001 Xbox launch, which featured six games. for Fourth Wall Studios, an entertainment law school when Clark received her master’s “Then one day Stephen Spielberg walked production company he co-founded in 2007. from RIT. into my office, because Microsoft is a cool Once again, he’s looking to create some- “I promised Shaunna that I would go back place where that kind of thing happens.” thing truly original. Among the current to school, and she held me to it,” Clark says. Lee had been working with Jordan Weis- projects are two TV shows that hopefully will The close family network includes Clark’s man, creative director for Xbox. They were be on the air in fall 2010. While they can be parents, who live in Florida; stepdaughter assigned to make a video game based on A.I., enjoyed by viewers in the traditional manner, Shannon Coyne and her husband, John, and Artificial Intelligence, Spielberg’s 2001 sci-fi “they have the capability of reaching out and their daughter, Sara Kate (10 months) in tale. allowing people to connect in a variety of Atlanta; and stepdaughter Allison Clark in “But the movie didn’t seem to lend itself ways,” says Lee. Grand Cayman. Shortly after Clark won the to a game,” says Lee. So they came up with He admits a certain amazement that there Athena, the family gathered for a celebratory another idea – create a “game” where the is money to be made in this – “I am having reunion. action takes place in the real world. Thus was way too much fun.” The key, he believes, is to The sense of family extends into her work. born The Beast, considered the world’s first keep moving beyond what’s cool at the mo- She loves her job in great part because of alternate reality game. ment to imagine what’s coming next. He has a the people she works with – from the Sands It’s complicated, but here’s the gist: In the theory as to why he’s good at this. brothers and her Constellation colleagues to fine print on A.I. movie posters, they listed “What I like to do is to make people feel community partners and elected officials. “Jeanine Salla, sentient machine therapist.” like superheroes. For the next 10 seconds, “I think if you have passion, and surround People who happened to notice this intrigu- you’re unbelievable,” he says. “It’s so easy yourself with good people, you can accom- ing bit of information could find her Web for me to infuse my games with this feeling, plish great things,” says Clark. “At the end site. There they discovered a murder victim, because my whole life, that’s what I’ve wanted. of the day, it’s all about the people you work Jeanine’s friend who had died under mysteri- I’ve wanted to be a superhero.” with and the relationships you develop.” ous circumstances. Kathy Lindsley Kathy Lindsley “And on and on it went,” says Lee. People To learn more, visit www.fourthwallstudios.com.

26 | SPRING 2010 Keith Major: Model assignments

In one memorable segment of “It’s easy to fall into the trap of copying the photographers you ad- America’s Next Top Model, each contestant smears her face with a color – blue, yellow, mire, and doing the kind of work that you’ve seen and like. But the orange, purple, green. most exciting young photographers I’ve seen are doing things that Keith Major ’84 (photo illustration) makes them look fabulous. haven’t been seen before.” No wonder Tyra Banks, star of the Bravo Keith Major ’84 TV series, asked him to do the shoot and be a guest judge. place to be if you wanted to be a photog- tographers starting their careers to develop a “Tyra is somebody I shot early on,” says rapher,” says Major. “RIT gave me a great clear idea of how to distinguish themselves, Major. “She’s been great to me.” The pho- technical foundation.” he says. “It’s easy to fall into the trap of copy- tographer and the supermodel have worked Returning to New York after graduation, ing the photographers you admire, and doing together on a number of projects, including he became an assistant to Anthony Barboza, the kind of work that you’ve seen and like. an Ebony magazine cover in 2008. a prominent photographer in the African But the most exciting young photographers Major has photographed celebrities in the American market. He also worked for I’ve seen are doing things that haven’t been entertainment and fashion industries: Sean Gamma One, a pioneering fine-art photogra- seen before,” he says. P Diddy Combs, Patti Labelle, Wynton Mar- phy studio, where Major worked with several “Be unique and do your own work. When salis, Beyoncé, Spike Lee and Kim Catrall, to other RIT grads. you’re young, that’s how you get noticed.” name a few. He’s done work for publications At the same time, he began shooting for And when the opportunities come, be such as Seventeen, Essence, Allure, USAWeek- himself on the side. Today, he operates his ready, do good work and relish it. He says he end and many others. own studio in Manhattan. “I’m living my really liked working on America’s Next Top It sounds glamorous. In reality, being a dream come true,” he says. Model. successful commercial photographer is a lot He’s also beginning to learn about video “I chose this profession because I enjoy it. of hard work, perhaps never more so than to expand his skill set – and he recommends There’s always a certain amount of fun.” now. These are difficult times for the industry, that young photographers do the same. “It’s Kathy Lindsley says Major. Print media is undergoing major useful to be able to shoot for TV, movies, new changes. Once-plentiful work for CD packag- media and all things Web,” he says. “You need To learn more about Keith Major, visit ing has all but dried up. to be versatile.” http://keithmajor.com/ Still, he says, “I love what I do, as difficult Even more important is the need for pho- as some days may be. Having the opportunity to create beautiful images is a thrill.” Major, a native of New York City, became interested in photography in grade school. “I had always been interested in the visual arts, starting from very early on,” he says. That led to art classes available through the city school system at Brooklyn Museum and Pratt Institute. “One year, all of the art classes were full, so I got into a photography class. I was about 12. By fourth or fifth grade, I knew I wanted to be a photographer.” And when it came time for college, he knew where he wanted to go. “RIT was the Keith Major ’84 (Photo by Ryle Watson)

SPRING 2010 | 27 David Kidder: Taking risks pays off

Big, bright ideas come to David S. Kidder in a seemingly endless torrent. A self-described “serial entrepreneur,” Kidder ’95 (industrial design) is co-founder and CEO of Clickable, an online software service that simplifies advertising on Google, Yahoo! and Microsoft. Founded in 2007, Clickable has grown to more than 120 employees. He’s also creator and co-author of the two-time New York Times best-selling book series, The Intellectual Devotional. Printed in more than 12 languages, each of the books comprises 365 one-page topics. Kidder’s latest project expands on his interest in “philanthro-capitalism.” GoodAdds. org, launched in December 2009, is a “cause marketing platform” aimed at helping to end extreme poverty by providing free online advertising for philanthropic organizations. The idea is to get companies to donate their unsold online advertising space and make it David Kidder ’95 available to nonprofits to place ads for causes such as sponsorship of water wells, buying tising services startup later acquired by Target you in creation.” malaria nets and inoculating children. He’s Vision). He moved to New York City and As for what kinds of ideas will be success- attracted launch partners including GE, NBC, lived through the dot-com boom. ful, Kidder has very clear ideas. Google and Soros Foundation-funded Mil- Then he “got lost” traveling in Africa, “You must build painkillers and not lennium Promise. India, China, Nepal, Tibet and elsewhere, vitamins.” He explains that people take “It’s a matter of scale,” explains Kidder. ultimately visiting more than 20 countries. painkillers because they need them; vitamins “Only a small percentage of people who see Upon returning, Kidder married, had two are elective. “Innovations are more likely to the ads will click on them, and a smaller per- sons, now ages 4 and 2 – and started another succeed if they solve real market problems; centage will actually take action. But there are business. It’s been full speed ahead ever since. success is far more assured if you solve a over 2.7 trillion online ads placed every year Prior to Clickable, Kidder co-founded Smart- painful market problem affecting thousands – and growing 10 percent each year – with over 50 percent going unsold. Utilizing just “As a student, you need to decide what kind of inspired, vibrating 1 percent of this inventory each year could change a continent.” light you will be in the world. ” Kidder’s interest in “cause marketing” David Kidder ’95 extends from his experience with TED, a non-profit organization that brings together Ray Network, a mobile advertising delivery of people economically, but also as it relates people from technology, entertainment and pioneer acquired by LifeMinders. to time and complexity. design. Through the annual TED confer- “What guides me is, number one, the “Build companies and ideas that solve ences, he’s become connected with many responsibility to take risks,” says Kidder. “I massive problems,” advises Kidder. “You need gifted entrepreneurs and executives from think that in general, students from America to be in huge marketplaces with big pain.” many fields, all working to do good. “There’s have a very myopic view of their place in the His efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. Kidder an amazing network of people supporting world. We have won humanity’s lottery.” received ID Magazine’s International Design this,” he says. Even in tough times, things are better in Award and Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur A native of Guilderland, N.Y., near Albany, America than almost anywhere else in the of the Year Award in 2008. He is frequently Kidder came to RIT partly to play lacrosse. world. Opportunities exist here that are sim- asked to speak at universities and organiza- RIT’s hands-on culture and practical approach ply not accessible by a wider group of people. tions including the gradutate business schools to education suited him perfectly. “I could Because of this, Kidder postulates, “We have a at Stanford, Columbia and NYU. study design very close to technology,” he says. responsibility to take personal risks. He’s packed plenty into his 36 years. The “The skills transferred well and immediately “Number two, the markets will only question is, how does he do it all? to the real world. What I learned at RIT has reward those who invent. You have to create “I don’t sleep more than five hours a night,” been part of everything I’ve ever done since.” unique and proprietary value. As a student, he quips. “That helps.” After leaving RIT in 1995, he lived in Mex- you need to decide what kind of inspired, Kathy Lindsley ico City, where he taught industrial design at vibrating light you will be in the world. You To learn more about Kidder’s work, visit www.clickable. a university. Back in Rochester, he founded need to be highly vibrating, with powerful com; www.GoodAdds.org; and www.theintellectualde- Net-X, (a Web authoring and Internet adver- ideas that will reward you and those that join votional.com.

28 | SPRING 2010 Sustainable Shelter The solutions to the world’s energy shortage and greenhouse gas emissions could be close to home.

The idea originated with President Bill Des- years. There are features that we could have n February, RIT students tler, who issued the challenge to the members done like geothermal heating where it’s really of the Habitat for Humanity club. They joined efficient and quote-unquote green. But for a completed construction of the forces with RIT’s Engineers for a Sustainable project like this where you have low capital first RIT-sponsored Habitat World student chapter, and many volunteers in the beginning, you can’t spend half your from all corners of campus joined weekend budget on the heating system.” Ifor Humanity home, a dwelling work parties to build the house in Rochester. The students decided to incorporate ele- designed to be environmentally Construction began in November. ments including a ventilation delivery system “Our primary goal was to focus on repeat- designed to minimize heat loss, a 95 percent friendly on a budget. able features that were not super extravagant energy-efficient furnace, an air-lock entry and to reduce the energy cost of the home system, tankless water heater, soy-based foam owner,” says Alex Ship, a sixth-year mechani- insulation, pipe insulation, natural lighting, cal engineering B.S./M.S. student from Need- a roof allowing adequate summer shade and ham, Mass. “We focused on any aspect or any solar panels. feature that would pay for itself in the first 10 continued on the next page

SPRING 2010 | 29 continued from the previous page One house in an older Rochester neigh- increased noticeably in the past decade, an Energy Star home option, which features borhood may seem like a small step on the says Mark C. Coleman, co-manager, RIT energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, road to a sustainable future. But it’s a step Clean Energy Incubator and senior program appliances and other products. in the right direction: The construction, manager, Golisano Institute for Sustainability. Some states offer incentive programs to operation and maintenance of buildings “Sharp and swift energy cost increases have help owners of older homes pay for upgrades are responsible for as much as half of global caused people to look more closely at sustain- that improve energy efficiency. The Obama greenhouse emissions. According to the U.S. able building. Consumers are looking for administration’s proposed Home Star pro- Department of Energy, buildings account homes that are more energy efficient, cleaner gram – widely known as “cash for caulkers” – for 36 percent of total U.S. energy use and 65 and require less maintenance.” is also drawing attention to the need to make percent of total electricity use. And more programs and choices are homes more energy efficient. The program Interest in sustainable construction has available. Many builders of new homes offer would offer subsidies for the purchase of services, like roof insulation, as well as products, like efficient windows and furnaces. A second part of the program proposes incentives tied to overall reductions in a home’s energy usage.

Beyond saving money on energy costs, corporations and organizations such as universities have other incentives for pursuing sustainable building practices, Coleman says. The public and shareholders are increasingly concerned about companies’ carbon foot- prints. Plus, says Coleman, “Industries project that what is voluntary now may become regulatory in the future.” The federal government and growing number of states and cities already require that new public buildings meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED or other standards. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environ- mental Design) certification provides third- party verification that a building’s design incorporates strategies aimed at improving performance across categories including site selection, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, and innovation and RIT’s place in the sun “It was a delightful place to live,” recalls Jasper Shealy, professor emeritus, industrial engineer- design process. Considering Rochester’s reputation for cloudy RIT has made a commitment that all new days and long winters, RIT embarked on a ing. Shealy, his wife, their two young children somewhat surprising experiment three and dog lived in Energy House from 1978 to buildings on campus be constructed to LEED decades ago. 1981. “We were the first, last and only family to standards. The University Services Center Energy House, a nine-room, 2,000-square- live there,” says Shealy. “We were very comfort- and Center for Student Innovation, which foot model home, was constructed on campus able in the house.” opened last summer, received LEED Plati- as a joint project of RIT, Rochester Gas & Electric Shealy says the experience had a direct in- num certification, the highest designation. fluence on the home they bought in suburban Corp., and the Rochester Home Builders As- In 2008, the College of Applied Science and sociation. The structure was designed to rely on Rochester in 1981. “We wound up reducing energy consumption by 50 percent due to Technology building was designated LEED the sun for as much as 65 percent of its heating Gold, second-highest level of certification. needs – even in winter – thanks to 39 solar the lessons learned from Energy House.” panels and a heat pump system. Those improvements included improved insu- In addition to the LEED certification The project originated with RG&E-funded lation, a vapor barrier between the attic program for buildings, the U.S. Green Build- research by mechanical engineering professor and living areas, reducing air infiltration around ing Council also has developed standards for Paul Wojciechowski. Numerous energy-saving windows and doors and other relatively simple certification of professionals such as contrac- features were incorporated, including extra measures. “You don’t have to do anything tors, architects and designers. It’s becoming exotic to make a significant difference,” insulation in the basement, walls and roof; en- an increasingly important credential. ergy-conserving adaptations for the fireplace; Shealy notes. After the Shealys moved out, Energy House “A growing number of alumni are earning a ventilation system instead of air condition- certification,” says Nancy Chwiecko, associate ing; and minimal windows facing north, east was converted into office space. Ultimately, and west. The glass-walled southern exposure the structure was torn down to make room for professor, interior design. The department is bathed the interior with light. student apartments. currently offering its first course in LEED certification for interior designers. “Many employers are looking for this,” she says.

30 | SPRING 2010 President Bill Destler and his wife, Rebecca Johnson, were on hand for the wall-raising celebration when construc- RIT’s University Services Center and Center for Student tion on the RIT-sponsored Habitat for Humanity home began in November. Innovation received LEED Platinum certification.

Chwiecko recalls first hearing the term sustainable. “You look for the best choice, tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. “sustainability” in 1992. “Early on, it was not the perfect choice. And budget is always “There are a lot of claims,” says Charles a buzzword.” Many of the principles are not a factor. Lewis, professor, interior design, and an new, she points out: minimizing waste, use “We believe that good design is sustain- architect. “We use the term ‘green-washing.’ of long-lasting materials, avoiding products able design,” says Chwiecko. “We incorporate Things that are trendy actually can be waste- that might cause pollution either in produc- sustainability into all our courses. It’s part of ful. You need to look for good design that will tion, use or disposal are factors designers what students learn naturally.” hold up for years, even generations.” are trained to take into consideration. She Ellen Schott, a senior interior design major Look around, says Lewis. You see buildings adds that there’s no such thing as 100 percent from Canandaigua, N.Y., says Chiwiecko’s sitting empty, old buildings being torn down course in specifications taught her to keep to make room for new construction. Even if sustainability in mind when choosing ma- the new buildings are more energy efficient – terials. “For one thing,” she says. “I look for more sustainable – there’s still a huge cost in companies that are considering recycling.” land and resources. Shawn O’Hara, a senior interior design Alex Bitterman, also a trained architect major from Rochester says, “I was pleasantly and an associate professor of graphic design, surprised to see how well sustainability and offers this definition: “Sustainability means green design was incorporated into the pro- leaving the world a better place than we gram at RIT.” found it. And that’s a challenge,” says Bitter- McKenzee Fisk, a senior interior design man. major from Scottsville, N.Y., says that view- “Can we continue doing what we’re doing? point extends beyond her department. With The answer is no.” an academic focus in environmental studies, Bitterman says that meaningful change she is taking classes in several RIT colleges. will come only when consumers embrace a “Everyone is thinking about sustainability.” new way of thinking about the way we use In fact, RIT offers a growing number of resources. sustainability-related academic options, Think about compact florescent light including Ph.D. degree programs in sustain- bulbs, for example. They may last longer and ability, computing and information sciences use less energy than conventional electric (environmental informatics focus), and bulbs, but they are more difficult to manu- microsystems engineering (alternative energy facture and recycle and contain reasonably Sustainability is a major focus at RIT. The or energy efficiency). For more information significant amounts of mercury and other university’s comprehensive and inter on these and other aspects of “Sustainability heavy metals. disciplinary commitment is spearheaded by at RIT,” visit www.rit.edu/sustainability. “Which is better?” asks Bitterman. “The President Bill Destler. To learn more about programs, projects and research in this area, answer, perhaps, is not to need to use so visit the “Sustainability at RIT” Web site: Now that “sustainability” has entered the much artificial light.” www.rit.edu/sustainability. popular lexicon, students are also learning Kathy Lindsley that concern for the environment needs to be

SPRING 2010 | 31 High hopes for clean technology

Innovators are finding opportunities in the business of building a greener, more sustainable future. RIT alumni are among them. Here are some examples.

Windows and walls attracting the attention of President Barack Perhaps you saw Kevin Surace ’85 Obama, who praised the company during (electrical engineering technolo- a news conference in 2009. Additional jobs gy) on the cover of Inc. magazine’s were saved when the company reopened December 2009 issue. another closed-down window factory in Surace is the magazine’s Pennsylvania. Entrepreneur of the Year. “Kevin Surace, a member of RIT’s Board of Trust- Surace is on a Roll,” the cover ees, joined Serious Materials in 2002. story proclaims. “His vision: Find out more about Serious Materials online at www. To build the most innovative seriousmaterials.com. company ever, make billions of dollars, and save a complacent Winning big in Vegas world from the perils of global The “green tech revolution” was every- warming. By selling windows where in evidence at the 2010 International and drywall, Kevin Surace just Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which might pull it off.” took place in January in Las Vegas. Surace, president and CEO And among the many competitors, PI- of Serious Materials, says the COwatt, the first product of Rochester-based recognition came as a big sur- Tenrehte Technologies Inc., won the Best of prise. “It’s the Academy Award CES Award in the Green Tech category. for growing companies,” “It’s huge for us to receive this independent he commented. “It’s truly a validation of our product and technology,” testament to the team that is says CEO Jennifer Indovina ’06, ’07 (electri- behind me. And this kind of cal engineering, MBA). Tenrehte, founded exposure helps raise aware- in 2009, is developing wireless products for ness of what we’re doing.” smart-grid applications. Other RIT grads in- TheInc. magazine recogni- volved include Jennifer’s dad, Mark Indovina tion marks the culmination ’82, ’87, chief operating officer; Carlos Barrios of an extraordinary year for ’06, senior engineer; and staff engineers Surace and his company, Steven Boggs ’86 and Robert Morasse ’85 (all which is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif. electrical engineering). Kevin Surace ’85 was named The company’s EcoRock drywall material PICOwatt is a “smart plug” that allows Entrepreneur of the Year by Inc. was awarded Popular Science’s Green Tech remote energy monitoring and control for a magazine for his work in building Grand award. It also was named best new variety of appliances. Consumers would plug Serious Materials, a manufacturer product by Popular Mechanics and received PICOwatt into a standard outlet, then plug an of environmentally friendly drywall The Wall Street Journal’s Technology Innova- appliance such as the dishwasher or refrigera- and windows. tion award in the environmental category. tor into the PICOwatt. Using a computer or The World Economic Forum (WEF) an- cell phone, consumers can monitor usage, or nounced that Serious Materials has been the appliance can be turned off when electri- named to the 2010 class of Technology Pio- cal rates are highest, on when the rates are neers, a group of 26 companies that WEF be- lower. lieves “represent the most innovative start-ups Today this allows for significant savings in from around the globe that will have a critical areas where variable electricity pricing is in impact on the future of business and society.” effect, including California and Florida. Un- Serious Materials purchased and reopened der a federal initiative, a “smart grid” system a Chicago window factory, saving jobs and is under development, so variable pricing will

32 | SPRING 2010 likely affect most of the nation in the future. “Our aim,” says CEO Indovina, “is to improve people’s lives through wireless technology, empowering consumers to take a more active role in the grid, eliminate wasted energy costs, and reduce their carbon footprint.” To learn more, visit www.tenrehte.com. Riding the wind The wind has powered boats and mills and dreams for thousands of years. Today, the wind is providing a growing portion of the world’s energy needs. And someday soon, you might have your own wind turbine in the backyard. WindTamer Corp., a young company in Geneseo, N.Y., is one of the companies building equipment to harness the wind for homes, farms, businesses and municipalities. William Schmitz ’85 (mechanical engineering) was so impressed with the technology that he left the position of chief operating officer at Ultralife Corp. to become president of WindTamer in November 2009. During his tenure as COO from 2002 to 2009, Ultralife’s annual revenues increased from $32.5 mil- Carlos Barrios ’06, left, and Jennifer Indovina ’06, ’07 at the Tenrehte display at the CES Show in Las Vegas. lion to $254 million. Schmitz previously was vice president of manufacturing and general manager, Primary Batteries, at Ultralife. Prior to joining Ultralife in 1999, he was director of new product development for Bausch & Lomb’s Global Eyewear business, which included the Ray-Ban brand. WindTamer was founded in 2001 by CEO Gerald Brock, who discovered a way to increase the speed of wind through a turbine. He received the first patent on his technology in 2003. The company asserts that its device can produce more than double the power of traditional wind turbines. Schmitz describes the WindTamer as more like a jet engine than a propeller. WindTamers certainly look different – like a giant bullhorn or some enormous white blossom with a green center. Schmitz hopes that within a year, more than 400 units will be generating electricity for happy customers. Since the company began selling them in late 2009, several have been installed in Western New York. “New is exciting,” he says. “We have a chance to make a difference in a big way. The possibilities are endless.” Visit www.windtamerturbines.com for more information.

Bill Schmitz ’85 with one of the smaller WindTamer generators, on a truck at the plant in Geneseo.

SPRING 2010 | 33 Make your mark on the future.

Bill Harris ’49 was known as “One Shot Bill” as he seldom had to take a picture twice. He learned from his time at RIT and during his distinguished career, to study his subject carefully before the shoot. He also designed and built several custom cameras to ensure he always captured the perfect picture. Bill attributed his many successes to RIT and underscored his belief in RIT’s School of Photography, today known as the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences (SPAS), by leaving a significant bequest.

Bill’s estate gift will fund construction of the second stage renovation of SPAS facilities. This renovation project features a new School Gallery, presenting both traditional photographic installations and displays of moving images. Additionally, selected works from Harris’s photographic archives and equipment will be available to future generations of RIT students and faculty as a study collection, located in RIT Archives, Wallace Library.

Bill’s thoughtful legacy will make an important difference in the lives of our students. If you have any questions about how you can make a difference at RIT through a bequest or other planned gift, please contact Leila Rice, Director of Planned Giving at 1-800-477-0376 or [email protected] for a confidential conversation. Visit us online at www.rit.planyourlegacy.org

THE ELLINGSON SOCIETY

34 | SPRING 2010 Roger Dube (pink shirt) performs with other members of the Village Idiots Improv Comedy troupe, including his wife, Jeri (photo at right). (Photos by Rigoberto Perdomo) Away from the lab, scientist plays for laughs

On the job at RIT, Roger Dube is a research lies on trust between the players. You have to sources of clean energy. He recently received professor in the Chester F. Carlson Center for become comfortable with the other people.” a $79,000 grant from the National Science Imaging Science. Village Idiots comprises about 30 mem- Foundation to explore a novel approach using On his own time, he’s a Village Idiot – and bers, but only four to six are on stage at any laser light to convert methane gas into liquid proud of it. one time. A performance consists of a series methanol. The physicist is a member of Rochester’s of sketches and typically the audience scores Methane, a significant contributor to Village Idiots Improv Comedy troupe. the players after each skit. (Their perfor- global warming, has many natural and man- He says his wife, Jeri, is responsible. “Jeri mance space in Rochester’s Village Gate made sources, including cattle, wetlands, has been involved in acting most of her life,” says Dube, “and because of her, I’ve done “It’s very stimulating. It really encourages new ways of thinking. It can some acting as well.” Both were members of a theater group in Tucson in the 1980s, and also be very demanding, but it’s tremendously rewarding when the Roger had a role in a West Coast soap opera audience enjoys the show.” for a time. When they moved to Rochester in 2008 after 15 years in Boca Raton, Fla., Roger Dube Jeri auditioned for Village Idiots as a way of meeting people and getting to know their Square complex in Rochester seats about 50.) coal mining and natural gas and petroleum new town. There’s no stage in the conventional sense, production. Dube went along just to watch, but the but music and lighting are important aspects “Successful photo-catalysis of methane director asked him to fill in for a scene and of each performance and members of the would theoretically produce clean fuels and both ended up joining the group – along troupe take a hand in behind-the-scenes remove methane gas that otherwise would with their son, Jordan, now a college student duties. simply be released into the atmosphere,” in Florida. “It’s very stimulating,” says Dube. “It really Dube says. “If successful, the technology Improvisational comedy is quite different encourages new ways of thinking. It can also could have broad impact in other fields of from conventional acting, Dube explains. be very demanding, but it’s tremendously re- chemistry.” “There are no lines to memorize. You don’t warding when the audience enjoys the show.” Michelle Cometa and Kathy Lindsley know what’s coming and you don’t know He believes improv has much in common how you’re going to react,” he says. “A lot of with teaching. “As a professor, you have to For more information about Village Idiots Improv, improv is audience-driven. There’s no way learn how to engage your audience. You have including upcoming shows, visit www.improvvip.com/ to rehearse, but there are techniques you can to use the creative side of your mind. Like- Show-Descriptions.html. practice.” wise, in improv you have to listen. You have To learn more about Roger Dube’s research activities, To that end, the group “rehearses” several to pay attention. You have to focus.” visit www.cis.rit.edu/user/18. times a week. “A successful improv troupe re- Offstage, Dube is focusing on finding

SPRING 2010 | 35 Regional Alumni Activities Jennifer Ashbaugh and Megan Cheever are your contacts in the Office of Alumni Relations for regional alumni activities. Don’t hesitate to contact them toll free at 1-866-RIT-ALUM. To learn more about the events listed below, go to www.rit.edu/alumniactivities. You can register for events through our secure Web site.

Albany Santa at the Henry Ford Museum on Dec. 5. Thank you to our host, Yolanda Lewczuk ’00. Recent activities: The Albany Alumni Chapter enjoyed an evening with RIT President Bill Destler Houston on March 2. Recent activities: Alumni enjoyed a night at Hous- Coming up: Plans are underway for an alumni event ton’s Livestock Show and Rodeo, including a Rascal this spring. Please check the Web site for details. Flatts concert on March 10. Atlanta Coming up: Plans are underway for an alumni event this summer. Please check the Web site for details. Recent activities: Alumni and friends enjoyed an NHL game between the Atlanta Thrashers and Buffalo Long Island Cincinnati alumni enjoyed an evening at the Cincinnati Sabres with a pre-game reception in the Center Club If you are interested in becoming a chapter volun- on Jan. 14. Thanks to host Karen Betts ’82. Art Museum. teer, please contact Jennifer Ashbaugh at jennifer. Coming up April 24: Wine tasting and reception at [email protected] or at 585-475-7953. Chateau Elan. For more information, visit www.rit. Cincinnati Los Angeles edu/alumni/atlanta. Recent activities: Alumni and guests participated in Recent activities: The Los Angeles Alumni Chapter the 44th Annual Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Day Parade Austin/San Antonio enjoyed an evening with RIT President Bill Destler at on March 13. Thanks to host John Johnson ’05. Coming up: Plans are underway for an alumni event the Petersen Automotive Museum on Jan. 13. this spring. Please check the Web site for details. Cleveland-Akron On March 13, alumni and guests enjoyed a whale Boston Coming up: Plans are underway for an alumni event watch with Harbor Breeze Cruises followed by re- this spring/summer. Check the Web site for more. freshments at the Yard House Restaurant. Recent activities: On Dec. 5, alumni and friends enjoyed a pre-game reception at the Hogan Center and Colorado Mumbai cheered on the RIT Men’s Hockey team as they took Coming up in April: Plans are underway for a night Coming up: Plans are underway for alumni events on the Holy Cross Crusaders. of bowling at Dave and Busters in Westminister, Colo. this spring. Please check the Web site for more details Coming up May 6: Join us for the Business of Beer Please check the Web site for more details. at www.rit.edu/alumni/mumbai. event at Kinsale Pub. Connecticut Northern New Jersey May 29: Alumni will gather for a Boston Red Sox Recent activities: Alumni, family and friends rooted Coming up April 14: Join alumni and guests for an game. For more information, visit www.rit.edu/ for the RIT Men’s Hockey team as they took on the evening with President Bill Destler at the Charthouse alumni/Boston. UConn Huskies on Jan. 16. Attendees enjoyed a pre- Restaurant in Weehawken, N.J. For more information, Buffalo game reception at the UConn Alumni Center. visit www.rit.edu/alumni/northern_new_jersey. Recent activities: On Dec. 7, the Buffalo Alumni If you are interested in becoming a chapter volun- New York City Chapter watched the Buffalo Sabres take on the New teer, please contact Jennifer Ashbaugh at jennifer. Recent activities: The New York City Alumni Jersey Devils. The group also enjoyed a pre-game [email protected] or at 585-475-7953. Chapter enjoyed a reception with RIT President Bill reception at Pearl Street Grill and Brewery. Thanks to Corporate Chapters Destler at Rouge Tomate on Nov. 19. host Tom Stumpf ’89. Recent activities: The Cisco Alumni Chapter enjoyed RIT alumni, friends and hockey fans enjoyed a Alumni and friends gathered to watch the Buffalo a luncheon with RIT President Bill Destler on Jan. 12. pre-game reception at The Thayer Hotel prior to the Bills take on the Indianapolis Colts on Jan. 3. Thanks to our host, Bob Dimicco ’84. big game vs. the Army Black Knights on Feb. 13. Coming up June 27: Join alumni and friends aboard The Xerox Alumni Chapter enjoyed a group happy the Vineyard Express. This train excursion from Philadelphia hour at MacGregors on Jan. 21. Thanks to our host, Lockport, N.Y., makes stops at Spring Lake Winery Recent activities: Aviva Dubrow ’91 hosted a wine Chris Paliouras-Pierce ’92, ’96. and Medina Railroad Museum. For more informa- and cheese tour of Philadelphia March 6. A group of RIT alumni at PAETEC enjoyed lunch tion, visit www.rit.edu/alumni/buffalo. Coming up May 12: Plans are underway for an on Jan. 28. Thanks to our host, Scott Telle ’02. alumni reception. Check the Web site for details. Central Florida Coming up: Plans are underway for alumni events Coming up April 14: The Central Florida Alumni this spring/summer. If you are interested in planning Phoenix Chapter is hosting a reception in Orlando. an RIT alumni event where you work, please contact Recent activities: Alumni enjoyed a night connect- April 15: An alumni reception will be held in Jon Rodibaugh at 585-475-4485. ing with current honors students and special guest Tampa. Please check the Web site for details on these Dallas/Fort Worth Harvey Palmer, dean of the Kate Gleason College of events. Engineering, on March 4. Recent activities: Alumni enjoyed a night of home- Coming up: Plans are underway for an alumni event Charlotte town hockey as the Dallas Stars took on the Phoenix in the summer. Check the Web site for details. Coming up in April: Bowling at StrikeCity. Coyotes on Jan. 31. June: Whitewater rafting at the U.S. National White- Coming up April 24: The Annual Potluck Picnic for Pittsburgh water Center. Please check the Web site for details. Dallas area alumni will take place. Coming up: Plans are underway for an alumni event Chicago May 16: John Cody ’64 will host an alumni reception this spring. Please check the Web site for information. and performance of Madame Butterfly at the Margot Recent activities: On Jan. 21, alumni and friends Raleigh-Durham and Bill Winspear Opera House. Check the Web site gathered for a night of laughter and improv comedy at Recent activities: The Raleigh-Durham Alumni for details on these events. The Second City. Chapter enjoyed a pre-game reception at the RBC Coming up in early May: Join alumni and guests for Detroit Center and cheered on the Carolina Hurricanes as a private reception with RIT President Bill Destler. Recent activities: The Detroit Alumni Chapter en- they took on the Buffalo Sabres on Feb. 11. Special Please check the Web site for details. joyed Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village Super with thanks to our hosts, Mike ’98 and Sue ’98 Pail.

36 | SPRING 2010 | www.rit.edu/alumniactivities Los Angeles alumni and guests enjoyed a reception with President Destler at the Petersen Automotive Museum.

On Feb. 27, alumni and guests enjoyed a pre-game San Francisco/San Jose Coming up: Plans are underway for a wine tour this reception at Deac ’N Dive, followed by the Wake For- Coming up: Plans are underway for an alumni event fall. Please check the Web site for details. est vs. UNC basketball game at the LJVM Coliseum. this spring/summer. Please check the Web site for Syracuse Thanks to our host, David Page ’66. more details. Coming up in June: Plans are underway for a cruise Coming up June 6: Join us for an alumni event at Big Seattle on Skaneateles Lake. Check the Web site for details. Boss Brewing Company. For more information, visit Coming up April 15: Mike ’92 and Lisa ’93 Woods www.rit.edu/alumni/raleigh_durham. Utica/Rome will host a tour and reception at Red Hook Brewery. Coming up: Plans are underway for an alumni event Rochester Southern Florida this spring. Please check the Web site for details. Recent activities: Alumni and guests enjoyed a Recent activities: RIT President Bill Destler met with Washington, D.C. A Christmas Story at Geva Theatre on Dec. 6. alumni in the Ft. Lauderdale area on March 25. Alumni and guests enjoyed a day trip to the Corn- Recent activities: Alumni enjoyed a reception at ing Museum of Glass as part of our Senior Citizen Southern Tier Clyde’s of Gallery Place on Jan. 29 with a live stream- Alumni Program on Dec. 9. Recent activities: Alumni and friends enjoyed a ing of a Men’s RIT Hockey game. More than 30 alumni and guests enjoyed a fun eve- pre-game reception and an exciting game of RIT Coming up: Plans are underway for an alumni event ning of food and drink at Murphy’s Law in Rochester’s Men’s Basketball as the RIT Tigers took on the Ithaca this spring. Please check the Web site for details. East End on Jan. 21. Special thanks to our hosts, Bombers on Jan. 19. Kristy Mooney-Graves ’00 and Stacy Kurtz ’05, ‘07. A sold-out group of more than 200 alumni and family enjoyed the second annual Father-Daughter Dance on Feb. 13. Special thanks to Rochester City Daddies, daughters dress up and dance School No. 28–Henry Hudson for participating as well as our volunteers, Adrienne Davis ’94, Shirley Corsages and boutonnières, fancy dresses Murphy ’81, ’95, Chris Jackson ’96 and Chris and painted nails – and lots of dancing: All Paliouras-Pierce ’92, ’96. the key ingredients combined for the second A group of snow-loving alumni and guests enjoyed annual Father Daughter Dance on Feb. 13. a day at Hunt Hollow ski club on Feb. 20. Alumni and guests enjoyed an evening at The Little Fathers and daughters (and family mem- Theatre on Feb. 22. Thanks to our hosts, Terry ’77 and bers) donned their best suits and dresses to Alina ’79 Palis. share in the fun with more than 200 attend- Alumni and guests enjoyed Riverdance on March 2 ees at the RIT Inn and Conference Center. and Grease! on March 20 at the Auditorium Theatre. Those in attendance observed some great Coming up: Registration is now open for the follow- dance moves from unsuspecting fathers and ing events. To register, visit www.rit.edu/alumni/roch- enjoyed seeing the smiling faces of many ester. Stay tuned for more great alumni events. little girls and young women. RITchie the April 10 – Young Chefs Academy April 14 – Custom Brewcrafters tour and tasting Tiger was there to join in the festivities and April 24 – Wicked at Auditorium Theatre show the group the proper technique for the May 1 – Imagine RIT: Hokey Pokey. Innovation and Creativity Festival The group dined on mozzarella sticks, May 9 – RIT Alumni Mother’s Day Brunch chicken fingers and lots of cookies and June 3 – Networking reception at Lovin’ Cup candy. They left with smiles on their faces June 19 – Rochester Red Wings Baseball Wade Stiell ’97 dances with his daughter, and lots of flavored lip gloss. July 14 – Rohrbach’s Brewery tour and tasting Nadia. (Photo by Ken Huth ’88) The Office of Alumni Relations thanks host Aug. 7 – White water rafting trip on the Salmon River Michael Domenech ’98 ’99 and Ken Huth ’88 San Diego To see more photos of this event, visit for the dazzling pictures of the event. Coming up: Plans are underway for an alumni event www.huthphoto.com Sue Rague this spring/summer. Please check the Web site for . information.

www.rit.edu/alumniactivities | SPRING 2010 | 37 College Alumni Programs Connect with your college! The ways to stay engaged with RIT keep growing. In addition to regional activities for all alumni, your college also supports special programming designed for you and fellow graduates of your department and college. Check out upcoming events posted to your college’s alumni Web page, and check in with your college’s Alumni Relations contact. We love to hear from you!

President Bill Destler and LeChase Construction Services President Bill Goodrich hosted a reception and tour of RIT for alumni who work at LeChase. Stay connected!

College of Applied Science and Technology Find CAST alumni on campus and online on April 16 and a reception at the Print On- Demand show in Philadelphia on April 21. www.rit.edu/alumni/cast Find CAST on Facebook! Log in to Face- Register for these and other CIAS activities at Catherine Bement ’89 book and search for “Rochester Institute of www.rit.edu/alumni/cias. 585-475-4975 Technology – College of Applied Science and [email protected] Technology” to become a fan and keep up with what’s happening in CAST. CLA hosts three events in Rochester College of Imaging Arts and Sciences The annual CAST Hockey Night was great 2009 ended with two gatherings. The “25 www.rit.edu/alumni/cias fun. Special thanks to Verizon Wireless for Show” featuring 25 years of Signatures Ron Goldberg ’99, ’00 their generous support, Army ROTC for all magazine took place at RIT’s Gallery r on 585-475-3112 their help in managing logistics and the Stu- Park Avenue. Commemorative chapbooks [email protected] dent Environmental Action League (SEAL) are still available. Contact Jennifer Hinton for running the used cell phone collection. to have one mailed to you. And RIT students College of Liberal Arts At press time, finishing touches were being and faculty kicked off the season on a musical www.rit.edu/alumni/cola made for the 25th anniversary RITz Dinner, note with the annual Music for the Holidays Jennifer Hinton which took place March 27. Upwards of 300 program in Ingle Auditorium. 585-475-4283 alumni and friends of the School of Hospital- Kicking off 2010, alumni from CLA and [email protected] ity and Service Management were expected NTID enjoyed a coffee and dessert recep- to turn out for the festive evening. Check out tion that featured a literary interpretation College of Science photos and more on Facebook. presented by Tina Lent preceding the NTID www.rit.edu/alumni/cos production of Sleeping Beauty. Jennifer Hinton CIAS goes on the road CLA alumni enjoyed an evening of net- 585-475-4283 working at the Northfield Food and Drink More than 140 alumni attended the Photo [email protected] where Dean Robert Ulin shared news of fac- Plus alumni reception in New York City at ulty and student achievements and his vision Connolly’s restaurant. This annual gathering B. Thomas Golisano College of Computing for the college. continues to be the signature event for SPAS and Information Sciences While you’re online, get LinkedIn: Join the in the fall. This year, Interim Dean Frank www.rit.edu/alumni/gccis “Rochester Institute of Technology - College Cost ’87 and School of Photographic Arts Tandra Miller of Liberal Arts Alumni” group. Become a fan and Sciences (SPAS) chair Therese Mulligan 585-475-6908 of the “RIT College of Liberal Arts Alumni” shared updates on developments within the [email protected] on Facebook, too! college and SPAS. Kate Gleason College of Engineering In January, 50 alumni came into Manhat- tan to ring in the new year at the Playwright COS alumni and faculty stay connected www.rit.edu/alumni/kgcoe Alumni reconnected with each other and Jasmine DiSalvo Inn and Tavern, mixing and mingling as Interim Dean Cost shared news about the Sophia Maggelakis, interim dean; Laura 585-475-5045 Tubbs, interim associate dean; Tom Freder- [email protected] School for American Crafts (SAC) expan- sion, the Vignelli Center for Design Studies, ick, biological sciences and Jeff Pelz, Center for Imaging Science at the COS Rochester National Technical Institute for the Deaf and the potential for a master’s program in sustainable architecture. Reception. In February, COS alumni, faculty, www.rit.edu/alumni/ntid friends and family enjoyed a tailgate party at Matthew Driscoll SVP ’90, ’94 In March, CIAS staff along with Cost and several faculty traveled to Chicago to host the RITz and cheered the Men’s Hockey team 585-286-4579 (VP) on during a thrilling game against Canisius. [email protected] the first all-CIAS alumni reception there. The event took place at the Elephant and Castle Upcoming events include a Young E. Philip Saunders College of Business Restaurant and had a great turnout, mixing Alumni/COSSAB “Happy Hour” later this www.rit.edu/alumni/scb alumni from Chicagoland and those attend- spring, the fourth annual Center for Imag- Melissa Miranda ing the College Art Association conference. ing Science alumni gathering in Washington, 585-475-2354 There are more events coming up, includ- D.C., on April 18 and a reception in Boston [email protected] ing the first CIAS Boston alumni reception to be held in conjunction with the 240th

38 | SPRING 2010 At the opening of Professor Bill Dubois’ ‘Bed Pan El- Jacquie Mozrall ’87, department head, Industrial and Enjoying the NTID Alumni Community Holiday Party egance’ exhibit in Philadelphia are, from left, Jeannine Systems Engineering, congratulates Professor Richard are, from left, Laura Barnard SVP ’95, ’01, Kimberly Pearce ’76, Dubois, and Alida Fish ’76. Reeve on his induction into the Industrial and Systems Richards ’05, Ursula Seefeld SVP ’81, Laurie Monahan Engineering Academy. SVP ’87, ’90, and Diana Robert.

American Chemical Society National Meet- mel ’80, ’83, Bradley Fluke ’84, Gregory receptions a success: Laura Barnard SVP ing & Exposition. Kacprzynski ’97, ’00, Richard Repka ’80, ’95, ’01 and Tom Rankin ’73, for co-chairing While you’re online, get LinkedIn: Join the ’83, and Bernard Schroeder ’77, ’80. the Holiday Committee; and Jeff Nardozza “Rochester Institute of Technology - College Industrial and Systems Engineering cel- SVP ’80, ’83, ’85 and Mo Nardozza SVP ’83, of Science Alumni” group. Become a fan of ebrated the program’s 40th Anniversary dur- ’85, and Alexandra McGee SVP ’73, ’76 for the “RIT College of Science Alumni” on Face- ing Brick City Homecoming. More than 75 welcoming alumni and guests at the regis- book, too! alumni, family, friends, faculty, and staff came tration table during the Holiday Brunch in out to celebrate the milestone. In conjunction Connecticut. GCCIS alumni are all about the games with the celebration, Professor N. Richard Several exciting alumni events are sched- The fall 2009 Dean’s Lecture Series featured Reeve was inducted as the first member of uled from mid-April to July in the following speakers from Vicarious Visions, developers the ISE Academy. locations: Boston; St. Louis, Mo.; Detroit; of Guitar Hero for Nintendo platforms as well The college has hosted several events: Washington, D.C.; Orlando, Fla; and Philadel- as acclaimed Action/RPG Marvel Ultimate KGCOE Retired and Emeritus Faculty par- phia. For details and to register, visit www.rit. Alliance 2 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. ticipated in a tour of the renovations to the edu/alumni/ntid. We hope to see you there! Guha Bala, president, and Karthik Bala, Student Alumni Union this past November; CEO and chief creative officer, delivered a the Department of Electrical and Microelec- SCB welcomes Alumni Relations rep captivating lecture on “Video Games: In- tronic Engineering hosted an alumni recep- The E. Philip Saunders College of Business novating in a Maturing Industry” to 150 tion, including a tour of the facilities; and welcomes Melissa Miranda, the new associ- attendees. If you missed this standing-room- Mark Kempski and Marilyn Houck hosted ate director of Alumni Relations. Melissa only address, watch it online at www.gccis.rit. Rochester area alumni for the Fourth Annual comes to the Saunders College from RIT’s Di- edu/node/264. KGCOE Hockey Night. vision of Development and Alumni Relations, Golisano College young and young- where she served as a prospect researcher for at-heart alumni bowled the night away at NTID alumni keep the season bright two years. A native of New York City and a Rochester’s Bowl-A-Roll on Jan. 23. In Febru- More than 35 Rochester-area alumni and graduate of SUNY Buffalo, Melissa is current- ary, Professor Paul Tymann and Computer guests attended the 2009 NTID Holiday ly working toward her MBA, with concentra- Science alumni carried on tradition with the Alumni Reception on Dec. 5 at Rustic Vil- tions in management and public policy, at the third annual Computer Science Networking lage’s Entertainment Center, and more than Saunders College. Melissa plans to dedicate Happy Hour, trying out a hot new venue, An- 20 attended the RIT/NTID Alumni Chapter herself to engaging Saunders College alumni chor Bar in Rochester. The College Hockey Holiday Brunch in Connecticut at Haw- across the globe and welcomes all Saunders Night followed later in the month. thorne’s Inn near Hartford, Conn. Many College alumni to reach out to her with any Spring brings two more installments in thanks to the following individuals who questions, comments, or just to chat. the Dean’s Lecture Series. Distinguished provided assistance in helping make these Alumnus Croswell Chambers ’88 (computer science), director of client management Distinguished Alumni for 2010 are named services for Lexmark International’s Printing Solutions and Services Division (PS&SD) in These remarkable individuals will be honored for their personal and professional ac- North America, will speak on April 9; and on complishments and for their dedication to RIT on April 9: April 30 Walter Bender, executive director, Michael A. Murphy ’84, College of Applied Science and Technology; Stephen R. Sugar Labs, and senior research scientist, Whittaker ’68, College of Imaging Arts and Sciences; Irene S. Jacobs ’78, College of MIT, will address students and alumni. Visit Liberal Arts; Philip J. Reiner ’78, ’80, College of Science; Croswell Phillip Chambers www.rit.edu/alumni/gccis to register for these ’88, B. Thomas Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences; Holly M. lectures and more. Hillberg ’92, Kate Gleason College of Engineering; Sharon L. Applegate ’79, National Technical Institute for the Deaf; Jay J. Levine ’76 and Stephanie Maltz Levine ’75, E. KGCOE showcases alumni and faculty Philip Saunders College of Business. For more information about this year’s honorees, to see the roster of past Distin- The 2009-2010 Dean’s Alumni Speaker Series guished Alumni, and to learn about other alumni recognition programs, visit www.rit. featured presentations by: Jeffrey Benck ’88, edu/alumni/recognition. Anthony Capobianco ’07, Johann Dem-

SPRING 2010 | 39 received The Star of David Award given the U.S. as part of The Ultimate Doo- in recognition of those who, in the spirit Wop Show produced by Canterbury 1973 Class Notes of King David, have demonstrated devo- Productions, appearing with the legends Jane Wattenberg ’73 (GAP) photo- tion to the land and people of Israel, of doo-wop that they grew up listening illustrated a version of The Duck And Key to abbreviations true leadership and generosity. to years ago. They also perform back- The CAST College of Applied Science and ground harmonies for Cleve Duncan, Kangaroo, original lead singer of The Penguins, written by Technology 1964 and the song, Earth Angel. The tour has 19th cen- Kevin Gilson ’64 (GAP) is a member of made stops in Los Angeles, Detroit, tury writer CCE College of Continuing Education San Diego, and Seattle, to name a few. (now CAST) the early music quintet Consort Anon and They recorded their first CD, Doo-Wop painter CIAS College of Imaging Arts and Sciences Straight from the Heart, early in 2009. Edward COLA College of Liberal Arts Stephen Whittaker ’68 (GAP) has been Lear. This elected an active member of the love song SCB E. Philip Saunders College of Business Supreme between KGCOE Kate Gleason College Council, two Ancient unlikely friends is published by of Engineering Accepted Greenwillow/HarperCollins Books. Scottish Rite College of Science Wattenberg is the author/illustrator of COS of Free many eye-popping photo-collage books FAA Fine and Applied Arts (now CIAS) Masonry for for children. The New York Times the Northern Graphic Arts and Photography and recently performed at the Walters squawked, “Yowza!” for her hip-hop GAP Art Museum as part of their holiday Masonic adaptation of Henny-Penny. Her Never (now CIAS) open house. The group also performed Jurisdiction of Cry Woof ! is howls of fun. Her accor- for students and senior citizens at the U.S. dion novel for babies, Mrs. Mustard’s GCCIS B. Thomas Golisano College of Com- Glenelg Country School. The quintet Stephen is classified as a 33rd degree Baby Faces, is celebrating its 20th year in puting and Information Sciences recently celebrated 30 years of public per- free mason. The awarding of the 33rd print. NTID National Technical Institute formances. Kevin is a founding member. designation is a national honorarium that recognizes service, leadership, dedi- for the Deaf Donald Kingston ’64 (SCB) was elected to the Duck (N.C.) Town Council in his cation and commitment to the princi- 1974 SVP NTID “Summer Vestibule Program” first run for ples of brotherly love and care among fellow men. Joyce Greenberg Goode ’74 (FAA) public office. has been elected president of the San 1950 Don will serve Francisco Quilters Guild. as the mayor 1970 Thomas Pearce ’74 (SCB) recently Eugene Penler ’50 (GAP) and students pro tempore of started his own business, Pearce Krishna C. Madaparthi ’13 (GCCIS), the town. Janice Fox-Ford Sterling ’63, ’70 (FAA) Corrugated Consulting, in Three Rivers, was a member of the 2009 National Mich. Thomas previously was employed Design Policy Summit (www.design- at Smurfit Stone Container as director policy.org) on Nov. 2, 2009. This is the of engineering. “I was able to take my second meeting of the group, which RIT education and 35 years’ experience includes members of professional design in the corrugated industry and start my associations, design educational bodies own business. As a management consul- David Spindel ’64 (GAP) was commis- and design-related federal government sioned to create a cover for the Silver tant, I am helping the future managers agencies. One of the summit goals is to in our industry.” Spur Awards establish an American Design Council in Burbank, with a presence in government and the William Zarycranski ’72, ’74 (GAP) Calif. David creation of a Secretary of American recently became director, biopharma- also signed a ceutics, at Teva Pharmaceuticals USA right, and Breanna Shartzer ’13 Design and Innovation position. contract with in Horsham, Pa. Zarycranski was previ- (GCCIS) happened to meet recently at Simon & ously associate director, scientific affairs, the 390th Memorial Museum in Tucson, Shuster for a within the Clinical Pharmacology Ariz. Their mutual love of aircraft and 1971 book that will Services Group at Pharmanet. In his RIT created an instant bond between contain George McGee ’71 (SCB) visited new role, Zarycranski conducts Phase Penler and Madaparthi. Penler served in numerous Stephen Omondi Okongo of Kenya in I clinical pharmacology and bioequiva- the U.S. Air Force as a bombardier photos of lence trials to support innovative and aboard a B-29 during World War II. The John Lennon generic business units. museum contains the restored B-17G, taken at the last recording session of “I’ll Be Around.” Lennon’s Double Fantasy album in 1980. 1975 1955 1965 William Truran ’75 (GAP) is an Donald Nagel ’55 (FAA) was repre- adjunct professor at William Paterson Fred Buja ’65 (KGCOE) received his sented in the Blue Ridge Mountains University. He has produced a new book second U.S. patent to measure tem- Art Association’s National Juried Show called Digital Imaging: from Capture perature and pressure as a combined with two pastels, Amicola Falls and to Production. He writes, “Now I am thermal-mechanical strain imposed on a Marshscape No. 8. Two works by Joyce the fall. Stephen (pictured here) was teaching both studio lighting and digital thermocouple bead. The patent-pending Nagel ’56 (CIAS) were also included: orphaned as a teenager and George imaging at night and run a photo studio sensing technology application measures a pastel, Taking Off, and oil, Mom’s began to sponsor Stephen five years ago. during the day. That means fun from physiological respiration rate and vascu- Moment, which won a merit award. The To read more, go to www.rit.edu/ early morning to late at night!” lar blood pressure-pulse rate without a show featured 130 pieces from 25 states news/?v=47219. Patrick White ’84, ’75 (SCB) founded pressurized cuff, with the sensor array to selected from 500 entries. John Peelle ’71 (GAP) moved to publicly traded Document Security be attached to a watch for 24/7 wireless Systems Inc. (DSS) in 2002 and serves monitoring and alarm. Phoenix, Ariz., in 1976 and opened his own photo studio in the Scottsdale Air as chief executive officer and a director. 1957 Park. His clients have included almost In 2008 and 2009, Document Security all the major advertising agencies, many Systems was named to the Technology Michael Blain ’56, ’57 (GAP) was hon- 1968 Fast 500 published by Deloitte LLP ored by State of Israel Bonds for a life- design studios and many corporate cli- Jan Detanna ’68 (FAA) sings lead in his for the fastest-growing technology time of service at its annual tribute lun- ents including Forever Living Products, doo-wop group, Deke and The Blazers. companies in the U.S. White currently cheon Nov. 15, 2009, at Congregation Best Western International and Pointe The group has been touring across sits on the board of several technology Shaarey Tefilla in Carmel, Ind. He Resorts, just to name a few. peellephoto. com/index.html 40 | SPRING 2010 Alumni Updates

Work means play for toy company engineers

Some serious play is taking place at Fisher-Price Toys Inc. in East Aurora, N.Y., and two RIT engineering graduates are among the most serious players. For Tim Trapp ’04 (mechanical engineering) and Brian Argauer ’07 (computer engineering), each day involves not only developing the newest toys, but playing with them – all in the service of the company’s primary consumers: children. “In my role as product development engineer, I follow the product through the whole lifecycle, turning design intent into reality,” Trapp told an audience of engineering honors students during a visit to campus. “And seeing a toy you helped design and build on the shelves in local stores is great fun.” Trapp joined Fisher-Price in 2004. He is part of the company’s Baby Gear team that develops products such as baby monitors, high chairs, swings and entertainers. Behind the playfulness, Fisher-Price is all business, says Argauer, who is part of a team that develops toys for infants. He handles things Engineering grads Tim Trapp ’04 (center) and Brian Argauer ’07 (right) joined Harvey such as creating schematics, programming the desired functionality Palmer, dean, for a presentation to a group of engineering honors students. and incorporating music. “We even have professional musicians on staff, many with music search Center. degrees and in bands,” he says. “There’s a lot more to it than just put- “We have a drop test from table tops, even bite tests,” says Trapp. ting audio on a chip.” And he knows firsthand how important – and fun – the tests can be. A project team could consist of mechanical, electrical and audio As a pre-schooler in the 1980s, he was a toy tester, speeding around engineers working side-by-side with design and marketing profes- with a toy lawn mower. sionals. In many instances, the engineers use the latest in rapid proto- As part of their visit, Trapp and Argauer called upon Kate Gleason typing, a three-dimensional printing process where individual parts College of Engineering honors students to help put a new toy through are made on site to be used as part of a demonstration model. its paces. The students received one of the newest Fisher-Price toys, All the toys need components that not only work well but can the Color Flash Laptop, to re-engineer. withstand dropping or throwing. All toys are tested throughout the Playing with toys knows no age. For the college students with their development process and during production, Argauer explains. He first Color Flash Laptop, the connection between fun and work begins says that some of the most effective testing is done by parents and with the technology. young children, who act as volunteers at the Fisher-Price Child Re- Michelle Cometa

companies and is a frequent speaker at a consultant with the Photo Imaging mer senior vice president of Tribune industry functions. DSS has 80 employ- Education Association, a sub group of 1977 Co.’s Interactive group, a multimarket ees and manufacturing plants in San PMA. My old friends should find me on Chingho Lu ’77 (SCB) writes, “I am on Internet business. Francisco and Rochester. Facebook!” a mission to help people experience Robert Whiteside ’77 (FAA) is a cre- Dale Romano Grogan ’76 (GAP) wellness and ative arts therapist at the Jewish Home and husband, James, own two stores in build wealth of Rochester. Bob is also a 2003 gradu- 1976 for their life ate of the Nazareth College of Rochester Michael Gendron ’76 (SCB) was purposes. Post Graduate Art Therapy Certification the keynote speaker at the annual Please visit my Program, an exhibiting and studio artist, Ohio Statewide Conference on blog at www. and adjunct professor of the Visual and Entrepreneurship and Ethics in chingholu. Performing Arts Department of Monroe November. com/nopalea.” Community College. Stan Godwin ’76 (GAP) retired from Texas A&M University-Commerce after 30 years of teaching. “I was the 1978 Richard Malone ’77 (GAP) is the new photography coordinator and interim Daniel Mills ’78 (FAA) writes, “Just back president and chief executive officer of head of the art department. I moved from China for the opening of a solo the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. As back to my childhood home on Cape historical Wickford, R.I.: “The World show at the Tianjin Academy of Fine CEO he is responsible for the leadership Cod, Mass., where I operate Stan Store” and “Nautical Impressions; Gifts Arts Museum, and from being a visiting and management of the organization Godwin Photography Workshops for Sailors and Landlubbers Alike.” artist there. A great experience!” (www.stangodwin.com) and work as – one of the largest nonprofits in the city– and will oversee its $84 million David Pieramico ’78 (SCB) was operating budget. Malone is the for- recently promoted to senior adjunct fac-

SPRING 2010 | 41 ulty in the accelerated learning program RIT’s Alumni Online Community after Martial Arts Studies) was inducted into at Medaille College in Rochester. “I cur- being out of touch for more than 15 years! the U.S. Martial Arts Hall of Fame and 1989 rently teach finance classes in both the the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame, and James Joy ’89 (CAST) was promoted to bachelor’s and master’s business admin- further honored by the City of Seattle istration degree programs, as well as in 1983 director of quality and regulatory com- whose mayor named Oct. 18, 2009 “Dr. pliance at Lucid Inc. in Rochester and the master’s of organizational leadership James Meadows ’83 (CCE) is a train- Jonathan Bannister Day” in recognition degree program.” is responsible for approvals and compli- ing team manager with ADT Security of Bannister’s successful efforts to build ance of Lucid’s medical devices with Eugene Rusiecki SVP ’71, ’75 (NTID), Services in Kansas City, Miss. He is bridges of friendship and understanding worldwide regulatory agencies. ’78 (CAST) was employed at Siemens also a freelance corporate writer and between the peoples of Japan and the Energy & Automation as senior systems an Assemblies of God ordained min- United States. engineer. “I am currently a job seeker. ister. He recently completed a MBA Jack Van Antwerp ’86 (GAP) was pro- 1990 Looking to do the same line of work, as degree with the University of Phoenix. moted to director of photography at The an automation and controls engineer. Prior degrees are an A.A.S. in chemical Cindy Dunne ’85, ’90 (SCB) is a Wall Street recruiting clerk at U.S. Census Bureau in Contact me if you know of a referral technology with Broome Community Journal. This who is looking to fill a position.” College and an M.Div. in pastoral Winston-Salem, N.C. “I encourage any- past year has one who wants to learn more about the counseling with the Assemblies of God seen many Theological Seminary. government or the area they live in, or 1979 changes for who wants a job with flexible hours for a Daniel Taylor ’81, ’83 (FAA) and WSJ including temporary length of time, to sign-up for Clifford Townsend ’79 (GAP) writes, Nora Vaivads-Taylor ’83 (CIAS) have becoming the the job skills test to find out where their “While everyone was flitting about moved their design studio, Taylor largest news- skills can best be used. Check the www. Design, to 247 Main Street in Stamford, paper in the census.gov Web site for more details. I Conn. Founded in 1992, Taylor Design U.S. Last year, enjoy keeping busy at a time in my life (www.taylordesign.com) develops WSJ took sev- when many people are fully retired. branding, print and interactive com- eral photo awards including second munications for corporations and place Photos of the Year for best use of institutions, including MasterCard photography online (second to National 1992 Worldwide, Thomson Reuters, FedEx, Geographic, which took first) and first Sarah Lawrence College and Cleveland place NPPA award for best domestic Scott Curry ’92 (CAST) announces the Institute of Art. news photo story. birth of a daughter, Elsie Jazzlyn. William Wright ’86 (GAP) has been Jennifer Mohney Gogos ’92 (FAA) and elected as the chairman of the board of husband, George, announce the birth the RIT campus for our 30th reunion in 1984 Wright of Thomasville Inc. He will also of their October, my wife, Karen, and I decided William Abraham ’84 (CAST) com- hold the position of chief marketing daughter, to cheer on the RIT Cycling Club at the pleted the 100-mile Pelotonia Charity officer for the company. Alexandra Eastern Collegiate Cycling Bike Ride supporting cancer research Maria, on Championships in Vermont. Here is a performed at The Ohio State University Sept. 1, picture of me and my freshman, Greg Comprehensive Cancer Center—James 1987 2009. Townsend (CIAS), at the Dual Slalom Alexandra Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Anne Olsen-Williams ’87 (COS) was event. Cheers!” Institute. joins big married in August 2009 to Joseph M. brother Chavez. They live in Englewood, Colo., Adam, 2½, 1980 1985 where she works for Dishnetwork. at home in James Coe ’80 (CCE) writes “After a John Rice ’85, ’87 (GAP) accepted Amherst, Brad Hankin ’85 (GAP) accepted a a position as general manager at N.Y. successful 23-year career in the U. S. position as operations manager at Two Army, which ended in an untimely TheTeaTable.com in Ft. Collins, Colo. Terry Myers ’92 (GAP) was recently C Pack Systems in Nashua, N.H., where “For the first time in my life, I’m not promoted to prepress manager for RR wound, I settled in Lake Placid, N.Y. he is responsible for managing all facets Currently, I am the front-office supervi- working in the field of photography, but Donnelley’s Jefferson City, Mo., division, of manufacturing for a mid-sized folding have taken over operations of a long- which images approximately 1 million sor and concierge for the No. 1 resort carton facility. The operation produces in the Adirondacks, The High Peaks time client. It was the right thing at the Kodak plates annually. “just in time” high-end and upscale right time.” Resort. I thank RIT for the education Kathi Vokes ’92 (COLA) and Brian novelty consumer packages. The facility David Smith ’87 (KGCOE) is managing that put me where I am!” operates the largest geothermal system in Vokes announce the birth of a daughter, Michael Graff ’80 (GAP) was named director of Accenture Global Talent & Jordan Elizabeth, on Aug. 10, 2009, in New England and is the only packaging Organization president and CEO of Sandy Alexander company in the U.S. to have this environ- Mons, Belgium. earlier this year. Sandy Alexander, a Performance mentally preferable system. Two C Pack in Hartford, graphic communications company in is also 100 percent wind powered. Clifton, N.J., has been an industry leader Conn. The 1993 Donna Hartnett ’85 (CAST) currently practice is a for many years and employs a signifi- works part-time with her husband, Michael Larson ’93 (COLA) is an cant number of RIT alumni. Mike is group of Andrew Radack, in the law firm of skilled profes- attorney and founder of the Law Office very proud of his degree from RIT and Radack & Hartnett in Silver Creek, N.Y. of Michael J. Larson P.C. in New York speaks of his school often. sionals who Donna also works part-time for Ivoclar provide City. Michael previously was employed Vivadent Inc. in Amherst, N.Y., as direc- human at United States Army Judge Advocate 1982 tor of QA/regulatory affairs and assistant resources, tal- General Corps as CPT, Judge Advocate. corporate counsel. ent management and learning solutions “The timing was right to start a private Nancy Letavish ’80, ’82 (SCB) recently enabling clients to improve the perfor- practice. We handle cases in the areas of married John T. Magerowski ’80 mance of their people, their organiza- civil litigation, criminal law, real estate, 1986 tion and their business. family law and immigration. Michael@ mlarsonlaw.com” Jonathan Bannister ’86 (FAA), in keeping with his life-long interest in 1988 Japanese martial arts and culture (RIT 1994 Aikido Club), is currently executive Cavit Habib ’88 (KGCOE) is CEO and director and marketing communications shareholder of ISS Facilities Services in Janice Cifelli ’94 (CAST) is the chapter manager for the Pacific Northwest Budo Turkey. “I employ 22,000 people and I leader of the Western New York Chapter Association in Seattle, Wash., which run five different companies providing of the Vasculitis Foundation. “We are raises funds and provides grants and cleaning, maintenance, security, cater- a support group that meets through- scholarships for cooperative arts educa- ing, landscaping and pest control ser- out the year to discuss various issues tion in Washington State. Bannister vices all around the country.” that affect us. I plan to have medical (KGCOE). John found Nancy through (Ph.D./Ma.D.Sc., University of Asian professionals attend as guest speakers in the future. If any alumni have or

42 | SPRING 2010 Hockey will highlight RIT’s annual fall festival again this year Brick City Homecoming and management major. “It great way to catch up with old Family Weekend’s newest tradi- was amazing to feel that friends, get introduced to new tion is here to stay. After a wildly many people united, ones and see all the amazing successful debut last year, RIT rallying around their changes that the school has gone Men’s Hockey will continue to be hockey team.” through.” a featured part of the weekend Many alumni, like The Men’s Hockey program – which will now be scheduled Cindy Rosenshein ’90 is excited about the prospect of to coincide with the first Men’s (packaging science), have Tigers fans packing the largest Hockey home game each fall. been waiting a long time sports arena in Rochester. This year’s Brick City Weekend for a homecoming week- “We are very excited to be a will take place Oct. 15-17. The end that featured a sport- part of Brick City Homecoming hockey game will be held at 7:05 ing event. Rosenshein and Family Weekend again,” says p.m. Saturday, Oct. 16, at down- proposed the idea as a Wayne Wilson, Men’s Hockey town Rochester’s Blue Cross final project in a public coach. “Last year’s experience Arena. Last year’s game, which speaking class more than exceeded all of our expectations. drew more than 7,000 orange- 20 years ago. The environment for our game clad fans, received a tremendous- “Brick City Home- was unbelievable and our team is ly positive response from alumni, coming and Family proud to be a part of this special Enjoying the first Brick City Weekend hockey students, and parents alike. Weekend far surpassed weekend.” game are, from left, Michele Oursler Bedri ’92, “Inside the arena, the atmo- all of the ideas and sug- John Follaco Jennifer Ladieu ’94, Karen McLaughlin ’91, sphere was absolutely electric,” gestions that we used in For more information about the week- RITchie, Cindy Rosenshein ’90 and Jane Corson says Taylor Osmonson, a second- that presentation,” says end, go to www.rit.edu/brickcity. Fernandez ’91. year hospitality and service Rosenshein. “It was a

SPRING 2010 | 43 know anyone who has one of these rare lization and restoration of the Central diseases, please feel free to contact me! 1997 Terminal in Buffalo as a mixed-use facil- 2002 Even if you don’t live in the WNY area, Michael Sivigny ’97 (CAST) brought ity, offering space for public events, light Jennifer Dashnau ’03 (SCB), ’02 (COS) I’m happy to speak with anyone about great pride to the Merrimac River industry, cultural/educational space, and Michael J. Brown were married their vasculitis journey. WNYvasculitis@ Rowing Association when he captured office operations, condominiums, retail gmail.com” the Head of the Charles Regatta in shopping and dining and access to pas- Erin Malone ’94 (CIAS) writes, “My Boston. Michael’s long-term goal is row- senger and light rail train services. first book was recently published ing in the 2012 Olympics in London. Nicolas Rubio ’01, ’99 (SCB) and by O’Reilly Michael, who is single, jokes and says he’s Angela Incerti were married Dec. Media. Designing living “The transient-rowing lifestyle.” Social Interfaces: Dieter Steigerwald ’97 (SCB) has been Principles, admitted to the partnership in the audit Practices and department at Fust Charles Chambers Patterns for the LLP, a certified public accounting firm User Experience in Syracuse, N.Y. His primary respon- presents a family sibilities include providing accounting on Oct. 17, 2009, at the Hotel Fiesole in of social Web and consulting services to manufactur- Skippack, Pa. Following the wedding design principles ing and commercial concerns, service and honeymoon in Australia, the couple and interaction companies and health care entities. returned to the Philadelphia area where patterns, capturing user-experience best Jennifer is employed as a process engi- practices and emerging social Web cus- Timothy Wood ’97 (CIAS) is graphics 5, 2009, at the Preciosísima Sangre neer in Recombinant Vaccine toms for Web 2.0 practitioners. The coordinator of the east coast at Fres-co Church with reception at the Tamanaco Technology and Engineering at Merck & book is primarily geared to interactive System USA Inc. in Telford, Pa. “After Intercontinental Hotel in Caracas, Co. and Michael serves as business designers and developers.” the birth of our daughter, Quinn, I Venezuela. Angela and Nicolás spent administrator for Detweiler Family worked as a freelance graphic designer their honeymoon on a cruise from Medicine and Integrative Chiropractic Michael Mogilski ’94 (SCB) was pro- to spend more time at home. Now that moted to manager, Medical Office Miami to Haiti, Colombia, Panamá, Center. she is older, I needed to transition back Costa Rica and Key West. They also into a full-time position. I now preflight Jillian Knight ’02 (KGCOE) was stayed a few days in South Florida. They recently promoted to assistant store art for a packaging company that pro- reside in Caracas. duces over 80 percent of all coffee pack- manager from service desk supervisor aging in the country. Clients include at The Home Depot. “I have been with Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Eight 2000 Home Depot over seven years and love O’Clock Coffee, White Coffee and many the challenges that I get to solve on a m ore .” Chandandeep Bhandari ’00 (SCB) daily basis.” writes, “My training and education at Mark Rozum ’02 (GCCIS) recently RIT helped to convert my business in became an applications engineer at 1998 New Delhi, India, into a multi-national Vivisimo Inc. in Pittsburgh. Mark organization. In April 2009, acting Alice Merchant ’98 (CIAS) is a systems had been employed at Consolidated Administration, in May 2009. He’s as vice chairman and CEO of my Communications as lead Web devel- responsible for all operations of the program manager at Splash in New York family-owned business, BIC Logistics City. “Splash is an international design oper. According to Mark, “Vivisimo is a medical facility including internal medi- Ltd. entered into a joint venture with leader in enterprise search technology.” cine, specialties, pediatrics, OB/GYN, and production agency and an indepen- Australian logistics giant Toll Global radiology, laboratory and pharmacy. dent provider of marketing management Logistics.” Ryan Testa ’06, ’02 (CIAS) recently systems. I am looking forward to con- became an iGen program manager tributing to the growth of the New York Brandy Tyson-Flyn Donough ’00 for New England for Xerox Corp. in City division.” (CIAS) is president and CEO of United Boston. 1995 Lithographers Inc. in Spokane, Wash., Seth Gitner ’95 (CIAS) and Angela after the unexpected passing of her Gitner announce the birth of a daughter, 1999 father. While in the United Kingdom, 2003 Sadye Annabell Gitner, on Sept. 20, she was a project manager for Black Pig, 2008, in Roanoke, Va. They are now liv- Brian Fregonese ’99 (KGCOE) and an advertising agency, until 2007 when Kimberly Bonarski ’03 (COLA) ing in their new home in Manlius, N.Y. his wife, Nissa Anderson Fregonese she and her husband, Cameron, had and Timothy Bonarski ’04 (CAST) Seth, who specializes in multimedia ’00 (KGCOE), announce the birth of a a son. “Quite a change from the past announce the birth of a son, Tyler storytelling for the Web, has left daily daughter, Gina Paige, on Oct. 21, 2009, in two years as a stay-at-home mom, but I Timothy, on Sept. 1, 2009, in New newspaper photojournalism to become Fond du Lac, Wis. Mom, baby, Dad, and love a good challenge!” Currently, they Haven, Conn. “Tyler is a happy, healthy a tenure-track assistant professor of 5-year-old sister Alyssa are all doing fine. are relocating from North Pole, Alaska, little boy, and so far a great sleeper!,” newspaper and online journalism at Elizabeth Nida ’99 (CIAS) and Carl back to Spokane. they write. the S.I. Newhouse School for Public Obert were married Sept. 19, 2009, in Evan Thomas ’00 (KGCOE) received a Carl Gause Jr. ’03 (COLA) and Crystal Communications at Syracuse University. master’s degree in electrical engineering Gause announce the birth of their son, from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Joshua David Gause, on June 1, 2009. 1996 May 2007. Chad Waters ’00 (CAST) and wife, Karen Rybarczyk Braun ’96 (COS) Bernadette Waters, announce the birth is a color scientist at Xerox Corp. in of a son, Owen Alexander, on Sept. 9, Binghamton, N.Y. She served as general 2009, in Meadowbrook, Pa. co-chair for the IS&T/SID 17th Color Imaging Conference in Albuquerque, N.M, Nov. 10–14, 2009. www.imaging. 2001 org/ist/Conferences/cic/ Minneapolis. They reside in Rochester, Melinda “Mindy” Cole Class ’03, ’01 Erin Esposito ’96 (COLA) was named Minn. Carl works in management at (COLA) and Clipson Class ’01 (CAST) executive director of Advocacy Services IBM and Elizabeth is a senior staff pho- announce the birth of a son, Ronan Kevin Giles ’03 (CAST) is project man- for Abused Deaf Victims (ASADV), a tographer at the Post-Bulletin. Cole, on April 20, 2009, in Rochester. non-profit agency providing support ager for The Pike Company and earned Derek Punaro ’99 (CAST) was recently He was welcomed home by big sister his Leadership in Energy and for deaf and hard of hearing adults and Bronwyn. their children who are or have been vic- elected to the board of directors and Environmental Design (LEED) tims of domestic violence and or sexual treasurer of the Central Terminal Accreditation from the Green Building assault. Restoration Corp. The CTRC was Certification Institute in September founded in 1997 to oversee the stabi- 2009.

44 | SPRING 2010 Sergio Guevara ’04 (KGCOE), ’03 Scott Kanzelmeyer ’04 (GCCIS) was producers receive fair wages, health Sarah Atlee ’06 (CIAS) is one of 12 (CIAS) recently went to work for Arryx promoted in October 2009 to systems care, education and daycare for their fellows chosen for a new contemporary Inc. in Chicago. “I was laid off from engineer IV for The Boeing Co. children. Products are made in India, art program for arts writers and cura- Microvision in January 2009 due to Marisa Santiago ’04 (SCB) and Patrick Cambodia, and Nepal. RIJI Green tors. Structured unlike any program in downsizing, but luckily landed a new Kieliszek were married on March 14, provides social justice through com- the nation, the Oklahoma Art Writing job from my first interview. I started 2009. The two met while members of merce. Fifteen percent of all profits are and Curatorial Fellowship encourages working for Arryx at the end of April. RIT’s Computer Science House and reinvested to support a non-profit com- new writing that is informed, articulate I am the primary engineer in their they wed in the Davis Planetarium of bating modern day slavery. “Who knew and inspired and engages audiences in research group responsible for opto- the Maryland Science Center. James buying a product could do so much? contemporary art. Atlee is an artist and mechanical and optical design.” Kieliszek ’03 (GCCIS), Melissa We specialize in customize bags, retail blogger at www.sarahatlee.com. and fundraising items,” she writes. Visit Rebecca May ’03 (CAST) and Jason Kellogg Ferrier ’03 (SCB), and Aaron Andrew Badera ’06 (GCCIS) was www.RIJIgreen.com. Stryker ’08 (CAST) were married on Halterman ’05 (KGCOE) served in recently retained as CTO at Measure & their bridal party. Also in attendance Michael Maeder ’05 (KGCOE) was Manage LLC in Teaneck, N.J. “This is a were many of their friends from RIT promoted to test officer at the U.S. Army unique, challenging opportunity to lead and CSH, a dinosaur, and their dog, Aberdeen Test Center in Aberdeen a development team in rapidly prototyp- Einstein. They currently live in New Proving Ground, Md. “This exciting ing and launching a completely new Jersey where Patrick is pursuing a opportunity allows me to manage and product in the collaborative business degree in physics and Marisa is a sales direct testing of systems in a variety of intelligence and business process man- manager for DC Comics. applications for vehicles and soldiers agement space,” he writes. Evelyn Sizemore ’04 (CIAS) graduated from a first-hand perspective.” Jeffrey Barker ’06 (CAST), ’06 (COLA) cum laude, SCAD Combined Honors Ryan Pancoast ’05 (CIAS) was recently and Jennifer Dey were married on Aug. Scholarship (2007–2009) and received hired to illustrate the ad campaign for a bachelor of fine arts in graphic design The Neil Simon Aug. 29, 2009, at Nazareth Chapel in from Savannah College of Art and Plays. Two of Rochester. The reception was at Frontier Design on Aug. 27, 2009. Simon’s most Field Stadium where they threw out the Scott Streiker ’04 (CIAS) recently popular plays, first pitch and guests enjoyed a baseball became manager, Electron Microscopy Brighton Beach game. Attendants included Kristina Lab, at California Animal Health and Memoirs and Mamon ’01, ’06 (CIAS), Jennifer Food Safety Lab in Davis, Calif. Scott Broadway Miazga ’03 (CIAS) and Paul Diedrich previously was employed at University Bound, are ’03 (KGCOE). They currently reside in of Dayton Research Institute as associate returning to Rochester and are both employed at research electron microscopist. “This Broadway and RIT. change is a welcome and yet daunting will be playing at 29, 2009, in Lewiston, N.Y. They cur- career advancement opportunity,” he the Nederlander rently reside in Scottsville, N.Y. Kevin writes. Theatre in the Kray ’06 (GCCIS) was the best man. 2004 fall. Adam Mattina ’06 (GCCIS) and Caitlin Christopher Banner ’04 (GCCIS) and Steve Shapiro ’05 (GCCIS) and Fields ’07 (CIAS) were also in atten- Amanda Griffin ’04 (CIAS) were mar- 2005 Melanie Ciufo ’07, ’08 (COB, CIAS) dance. ried on Aug. 15, 2008, in Boston. They Amy Brate Cham ’05 (CAST) writes, Michael Carvelli ’06 (CAST) became currently reside in Billerica, Mass. “Last spring, I left the world of Web a certified project management profes- Tu Wanner Cleveland ’04 (COLA) is sional and achieved a Lean Six Sigma volunteering as a MSW at True Bethel Green Belt. He is assigned as the bat- Charities, a ministry of the True Bethel talion engineer for the 3rd BN, 75th Baptist Church in Buffalo. Ranger Regiment in Fort Benning, Ga. He hopes to complete his professional Laurie Jerome ’04 (CIAS) and Mark engineer exam in October 2010. Hedberg ’04 (GCCIS) were mar- Francis Cavalier ’06 (CAST) and Eileen Cavalier announce the birth of a son, Rory James, on July 2, 2009, in were married on Aug. 8, 2009, at St. Rochester. Rory joins his older brother Louis Church in Pittsford, N.Y. Melanie Owen, who was born July 10, 2007. development and Internet marketing to was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha and Frank is an engineer with Trident start Paper Swan Photography, which Steve was a member of Phi Sigma Kappa Precision Manufacturing in Webster offers wedding and event photography while at RIT. Melanie is currently work- and Eileen is the controller for the Arc services. Paper Swan is a joint venture ing toward her Ph. D. at Henley of Monroe County. They were married with my husband, Matthew Cham, and Business School in England and Steve is in 2006. the founder and CEO of Digsby.com in represents the fulfillment of a long-time Ci Chen ’06 (CAST) is finishing his personal dream. You can see our work at Rochester. They honeymooned in ried on June 20, 2009, at the Webster Riviera Maya, Mexico. D.D.S. degree at New York University (N.Y.) Arboretum. The couple met while www.paperswanphotography.com.” in 2010 and starting residency at Long attending RIT. Many RIT alumni were Shaun Farrell ’05 (GCCIS) and Jennifer Island College Hospital in Brooklyn. present for the ceremony, including best Kilmer were married on Nov. 6, 2009, 2006 Erhardt Graeff ’07 (COLA), ’06 man Rob Heller ’08 (CIAS), grooms- (GCCIS), is a research assistant on The man Josh Coon ’98 (CIAS), Leah Coon Mayank Agrawal ’06 (KGCOE) was promoted to an associate consultant GoodPlay Project at Harvard Graduate ’02, ’05 (CIAS), Jesse Silverstein ’08 School of Education’s Project Zero. (GCCIS), Maureen Wood ’05 (COS), position at a Boston-based international management consulting firm. With more “My work at Project Zero will focus Adam Blair ’05 (CIAS), Melissa Dawn on studying the ethics of youth digital Keith ’04 (CIAS), Nicole Campbell ’05 than three years of industry and strategy consulting experience, he has worked media usage.” Erhardt also researches (CIAS), Christopher Daley ’06 (COS), social media with the Web Ecology Eileen Shannon ’03, ’05 (COLA) and across a range of industries including aviation, health care and life sciences, Project and is a founding trustee of many other family and friends. The Awesome Foundation for Arts and Following the ceremony, the couple manufacturing, media and entertainment, private equity/venture capital, and Sciences, funding “ridiculously awe- enjoyed a honeymoon in Antigua. They some” ideas. currently reside in their Webster, N.Y., in Geneva, New York. They currently social sector. He has gained experience in home with their two cats. Laurie works reside in Washington, D.C. North America, Central America, South Eric Hunn ’06 (CIAS) is a Marvel as a graphic designer for Barbour America, Europe and the Middle East. As Motion Comics competition final- Anna Leung ’05 (COLA) launched RIJI Design and Mark is a Web developer at part of a voluntary initiative for empow- ist. His motion comic The Worst Part Green to provide economic empower- Crosman Corp. erment of women, he recently spent two About Getting Your Memories Back was ment to human trafficking survivors months in India setting up a school for voted community choice. Eric resides in through employment. RIJI Green girls in a small village in Uttar Pradesh. Marlboro, Mass., with his wife, Kristen.

SPRING 2010 | 45 Go on a Tiger Hunting Spree!

46 | SPRING 2010 rit.bncollege.com 585-475-2501 He teaches animation classes at Mount 1967 Ida College and is also an artist and 2008 In Memoriam John A. Barrett ’67 (CAST), Nov. 18, 2009 animator for Tom Snyder Productions, Robert Beatty ’08 (GCCIS) has been 1933 Watertown, Mass. Eric does freelance employed for two years at Atlantic John E. Sill ’33 (KGCOE), Nov. 2, 2009 1968 illustration, animation and video Records in New York and works in the Philip Fraga ’66, ’68 (CIAS), Dec. 25, editing. Digital Media Department. 1941 2009 Harold A. Bentley ’41 (COS), Oct. 31, Minsoo Kim ’06 (COS) is pursuing a Lori Duprey ’07 (CAST), ’08 (CIAS) doctor of medicine degree at the Ben- 2009 1969 writes “These last few months, I have William Lagerway ’69 (CIAS), Gurion University/Columbia University found myself busily launching my new Bion F. Paver ’41 (CIAS), Sept. 29, 2009 Medical Center in Israel. Dec. 14, 2009 business, Light+Ink: Photography and Wesley G. Woodman ’41 (KGCOE), Michael P. Morley ’69 (SCB), Nov. 19, Tham Nguyen ’06 (CAST) is an Design Studio, in Rochester. The goal is Nov. 28, 2009 application specialist at Apple Inc. in a one-stop resource for quality, creative 2009 Cupertino, Calif. “With nothing left to photography and graphic design for 1949 1975 Edward W. Ingalls ’49 (CIAS), lose when laid off in February of 2008, I people and businesses. Our services and John D. Anderson SVP ’73, ’75 Nov. 24, 2009 chose to shoot for the stars and applied portfolio are available online at light- (NTID), Nov. 30, 2009 for a position at Apple in California. I andinkstudio.com.” John A. Parker ’49 (CIAS), Oct. 21, 1977 was accepted and relocated to California Christopher Rowoth ’08 (CAST) is an 2009 within a month of my application. ” Peter Alex Jr. ’77 (CIAS), Oct. 19, 2009 associate packaging technologist in the 1950 Lori Wielinski ’06 (SCB) and Chris David W. Varney SVP ’74, ’77 (NTID), Packaging Research and Development Richard J. Rudman ’50 (KGCOE), Tiede ’05, ’06 (KGCOE, SCB) were Nov. 15, 2009 Department for Heinz North America Sept. 16, 2009 in Pittsburgh, Pa. Robert J. Weber ’50 (KGCOE), 1982 Jennifer Russell ’08 (CAST) writes, “I Sept. 4, 2009 Benjamin L. Kramer ’81, ’82 (CIAS), am proud to announce that I am now Aug. 16, 2009 the owner of Rochester’s First Pole 1952 Thomas A. McCracken ’82 (CIAS), Dance Fitness Studio, X-Polsé Pole Carl G. Zollo ’52 (CIAS), Nov. 6, 2009 Dance Fitness. The grand opening was April 6, 2009 Jan. 2, 2010. The studio is at 1000 Turk 1954 1983 Sidney Grosswirth ’54 (CAST), Hill Road, Fairport. I encourage you to Patrick R. Herndon SVP ’83, ’88 Nov. 18, 2009 visit the Web site, www.xpolse.com, for (NTID), Sept. 3, 2009 more information.” Kenneth R. Hood ’54 (CAST), 1984 married on Aug. 1, 2009, in Buffalo. Nov. 3, 2009 Mark T. Byrne ’84 (CAST), Nov. 7, They currently reside in Bellevue, Ky. 2009 1958 2009 Arthur H. Richards ’58 (COS), Bradford Evans ’09 (GCCIS) recently Nov. 26, 2009 1985 2007 became a software engineer at UPS Brian H. Smith SVP ’74, ’85 (NTID), Logistics Technologies in Towson, Md. 1959 Cynthia Gray ’88, ’90, ’91 (CCE), ’07 Nov. 15, 2009 “I was looking for my first salaried posi- John C. Lathrop ’59 (KGCOE), (SCB) was recently named manag- tion, and found the perfect fit.” 1996 ing director, RIT & Rochester General Nov. 15, 2009 Julie Zepke ’09 (CIAS) is a product Christine D. Sevilla ’96 (CAST), Health Systems Alliance. She previ- 1963 Nov. 30, 2009 ously was assistant vice president, designer at Skooba Design in Rochester. William C. Wieck ’63 (CIAS), May 27, Government and Community Relations, Julie has found her niche in softgoods, 2007 2005 at RIT. designing laptop bags, briefcases and Steven M. Neary ’05 (GCCIS), backpacks for the Skooba brand as well 1966 Oct. 14, 2009 Ryan Jimmerson SVP ’99, ’02 (NTID), as pro-grade camera bags for Tenba. She ’04, ’07 (CAST) and Jennifer Peuv Arthur P. Eberts ’66 (CAST), Dec. 4, Kevin Wratni ’05 (CAST), Feb. 7, 2010 joins fellow alumni Bryan Hammer ’06 2008 (CIAS) and Kevin Berliner ’08 (CIAS) on the design staff at Skooba.

Jimmerson ’04 (GCCIS) announce the birth of a son, Maxwell An Jimmerson, on May 6, 2009, in Gillette, Wyo. Ryan is working as a mechanical engineer doing data analysis for Cloud Peak Energy, the third largest mining company in the world. Jenni is a stay-home mom and designing various collage cards at home for a few clients. Ralph Smith ’07 (CIAS) has two photos in the first edition for Grey Sparrow Press book, In the Silence of this Room, which he describes as “a cross-cultural collection of poetry, narrative, and photos that grapple with some of the most pressing issues of the world: war, poverty, health care, environment, family, beauty, and lastly—the ever-present need to connect—love.”

SPRING 2010 | 47 from the Archives 1940

Flights of fancy Jeannette Klute ’40 (photography) carved her own path in the workplace and became a pioneer in the field of color photography as an art form. Soon after joining Eastman Kodak Co., she was transferred to the research lab and eventually started working in the field, taking some of the earliest color photographs in the world. Her work has been exhibited at Rochester’s George Eastman House and at the Royal Festival Hall in London. She is best known for her nature photography such as this image of a luna moth. Klute died Aug. 3, 2009, at her home in Honeoye, N.Y. Her archive was recently donated to the RIT Archives and will become a permanent part of RIT’s history. To learn more about the RIT Archives, visit http://library.rit.edu/collections/rit-archives.html

Jeannette Klute ’40

No. 1 April 2010 RIT (USPS-676-870) is published 10 times annually by Rochester Institute of Technology, One Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, N.Y. 14623-5603, once in April, two times in June, once in July, four times in August, once in September, and once in December. Periodicals postage paid at Rochester, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to RIT, Rochester Institute of Technology, One Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, N.Y. 14623-5603. Andrew N. Brenneman ’86, ’88; RIT Trustee Senior Account Executive, Sprint Nextel NRS member since 2005. An RIT Trustee since 2005. Former chair and current member of the National Technical Institute for the Deaf National Advisory Group and winner of the RIT Distinguished Alumni Award in 2007. Longtime NTID donor, supporting a wide variety of NTID Funds.

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Patrick J. Talty ’92, ’02 (EMBA) Vice President of Operations, Info Directions, Inc. NRS member since 2003. Adjunct professor in the E. Philip Saunders College of Business. Serves on the NRS Executive Committee and Alumni Association Board. Among other areas, supports Imagine RIT: Innovation + Creativity Festival. Distinguish Yourself Among RIT Supporters. Through RIT’s Nathaniel Rochester Society, you can make a significant impact on the future of a great university and its talented, energized students who will one day make their own impact in countless communities across the globe. Become a member with a gift of $1,000 or more. Join a new generation of RIT leaders. Join NRS. NRS Nathaniel Rochester Society

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