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Vol. 24 Issue 7 Circulation over 50,000 Feb. 16, 2004 Highlights Out of the ashes comes hope for

In the News RIC students linked to Station fire

Gonsalves Fund family has been hit with financial Scholarships awarded to by Jane Fusco difficulties, almost forcing Gina, a two RIC students connected What's News Editor sophomore communications major, to quit school. The Doc scholarship to Station fire provided her with money to pay for Two RIC students affected by the New MFA joint program books and course materials so she Station fire receive the first scholar- can stay in school. with Trinity Rep and Brown ship awards from the Michael “The Iannone, a senior education established Doc” Gonsalves ’86 Scholarship major, is a fire survivor, who was Fund. hospitalized at Mass. General for The Unity Center presents five months with third degree burns Black History Month o his many radio listeners, over his face and back, and lost a he was The Doc. To his many hand and an ear. He has undergone Tfriends, he was Gonzo. To 30 surgeries. Iannone’s doctors Features the College community, he was a advised him against working in a beloved alumnus and a prominent computer lab for health risks, so he Some RIC students meet presence on the campus. To Rhode had to buy a laptop for coursework. the Democratic presidential Island College students Gina Mattera The Doc scholarship funded that candidates in N.H. and Michael Iannone, he is someone purchase for him. they’ve never met – and never will Once Gonsalves was confirmed Phenomenal females at RIC – but will help them achieve their dead, his friends, many of whom dream of a college education. — The First Woman of Color were his Kappa Delta Phi frater- Mattera and Iannone are the first MICHAEL GONSALVES ’86 nity brothers at RIC, met at a pub recipients of cash awards from the (PHOTO FROM WHJY WEBSITE) in Providence to give Gonsalves a Foundation/Alumni Michael J. Gonsalves ’86 Scholarship final sendoff the way only friends Endowment Fund, established at sidered the worst disaster in the could, when the idea for a scholar- News the College by Gonsalves’ friends state’s history. ship took hold. and family shortly after his death The scholarship is intended for “We wanted some sort of vehicle RIC on the Road — in West Warwick’s Station nightclub RIC students affected in some way to keep his memory alive and make fire on February 20, 2003. Destination: Florida by the Station fire. sure he could still affect people’s The Station nightclub fire claimed Mattera’s sister, Tammy Mattera- lives in the future,” said Thom New Alumni Directory the lives of 100 patrons and injured Housa, also died in the fire. Mattera’s now available several hundred others. It is con- Continued on page 6 Sports Expanded MFA theatre program features In memory of Hall of Famer Mike Creedon renewed ties to Trinity Rep Wrestler Deveau ranked No. 1 in New England by Rob Martin Arts/Entertainment What’s News Managing Editor Jeffrey Siegel's Keyboard Conversations® March 3 Rhode Island College’s Master of Fine Arts theatre program is back Salzburg Marionettes on track – three tracks, actually – perform March 17 and better than ever, now that stu- dents will be able to earn degrees in Academy Award winner specialized areas of theatre, in asso- ciation with Providence’s Trinity Joshua Bell returns Repertory Company and Brown University. Index The proposal to restructure RIC’s graduate theatre program was approved by the state Board Then and Now… 2 of Governors for Higher Education on January 26. The authorization Foundation/Alumni News 4 capped two years of “careful delib- Not Just Academically eration, negotiation and planning,” said Richard Weiner, dean of the Speaking 5 faculty of arts and sciences at RIC. Faces of RIC 10 “The revised MFA is a beacon in the region that signifies the impor- Marriages Made at RIC 10 tance of the role of liberal arts at Rhode Island College – especially STRIKING A DEAL: From left are Richard Weiner, RIC dean of arts and sciences; Sports 12 its creativity and strength,” added Oskar Eustis, artistic director of Trinity Rep; and Edgar Dobie, managing director Weiner. of Trinity. The three met in the offices of Trinity Repertory Theatre on January 30. Arts/Entertainment 13-15 The newly designed theatre pro- (What's News Photo by Gordon E. Rowley) Around the Campus 16 gram will offer three different tracks will be available to students will be offered as part of a Downtown tracks of study for a degree: Stage through the Trinity Rep Consortium Theatre Collaborative composed Management, Technical Theatre, and that includes RIC, Trinity Rep, and Performance & Society. The first two Brown University. The third track Continued on page 6 Page 2– Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 Then and Now… In keeping with the Sesquicentennial celebration, we will feature a series of paired photos showing the College “Then” and “Now.”

Then Now

THE CHANGE IN DINING: For this issue of What’s News we contrast a photo of the snack bar (left) as it was in the Student Center in 1961 with the new Café (right), which opened January 26 on the ground floor of the Student Union. (See story below.) By the way, the hijinks taking place in the snack bar photo were part of Frontier Night. In contrast to the modest snack bar, the new Café covers 5,250 square feet and was built at a cost of approximately half a million dol- lars. Some alumni will recognize the space as an expanded version of the area once occupied by the Rathskellar and more recently, The CoffeeGround. The Café can seat 80 diners and offers sandwich wraps, eight varieties of pizza, pastries, coffee and other drinks. There is a small stage for entertainment. Plans are to install a bank of computers connected to the Internet to make it a true cyber café. The hours of operation are Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 4 to10:30 p.m. Oh yes, in 1961, a coffee in the snack bar cost 10 cents.

In Memoriam – Frank B. Correia, professor emeritus, decorated WWII Navy commander

Frank B. Correia, 83, of Bristol, a retiring from the Navy. During his 1944 and was commissioned as an were the American Defense Medal professor of mathematics (retired) career at the College he taught a ensign after graduating from sub- and Asiatic-Pacific Medal. at Rhode Island wide range of mathematics courses marine school. Correia received a Correia was a member of St. College and and a variety of general education masters degree in mathematics from Michael’s Episcopal Church in Bristol. former Navy offerings. Among other accomplish- the University of New Mexico and a He had been a member of the Bristol commander ments, he started the Math Club, doctorate in mathematics from the School Committee from 1966-67. who was highly supervised the Honors Program in University of Colorado. A student at Brown University in decorated dur- mathematics, chaired the College He served on the U.S.S. Kingfish 1939 and 1940, Correia received the ing World War Honors Committee for five years, during World War II and later was first Hartshorn Premiums in math- II, died at home advised masters candidates, served aboard the captured German subma- ematics. As a member of the Rhode December 29, on mathematics high school visiting rine U-2513 with President Truman Island National Guard, he attained 2003. lecture teams and prepared papers off Key West, Florida. Correia also the rank of sergeant. He was the on the theory of prime numbers. served on the U.S.S. Power as execu- Besides his wife, he leaves two husband of He reached emeritus status in tive officer and the U.S.S. Van Divier sons, Karl F. Correia of Bristol and Alice R. (Fazio) 1983 after 19 years of service to the as commanding officer. He was Claude R. Correia of Barrington, and FRANK CORREIA Correia, and the College. executive officer of the U.S. Navy six grandchildren. He was a brother (file photo) late Fernanda His military career began in 1941, Base in Greenland in 1960 and 1961. of the late Anthony B. Correia and (Nunes) Correia. when he was appointed to the Correia achieved the rank of Navy Louise Goulart. Born in Bristol, he was a son of U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, commander and headed the math Funeral services were held in St. the late Manuel and Carrie (Sousa) Maryland as a midshipman. He department at the Naval Academy Michael’s Episcopal Church, followed Correia. received a bachelors degree in engi- before coming to RIC. by a burial with military honors in Correia joined RIC in 1963, after neering from the Naval Academy in Among the medals he received North Burial Ground, Providence. It's a ’smash hit’ — the Café opens at RIC in January Rhode Island College students taking advantage of the Café,” said The Café will have a new place to meet, study and Penfield. be the venue for get a bite to eat as the Café opened The survey also indicated that stu- the Coffeehouse in the bottom level of the Student dents were looking for “late-night Series of acous- Union for the beginning of the spring service” and “something totally dif- t ic performers semester. ferent from Donovan,” said Vincent each Wednesday The Café is a “smash hit at the Flemming, director of Donovan at 12:30 in the College,” said Gary Penfield, vice Dining Center. afternoon when president of student affairs. Student preferences indicated in RIC students and Leading up to the grand opening the survey make up the core of the friends have the on January 26, the Café offered a menu at the Café. Pizza, sandwich chance to show week of daily promotions including wraps, coffee, donuts and gourmet off their musical donuts for 10 cents with the pur- beverages are the staples of the talents. Patrons chase of a coffee, Starbucks coffee operation. will receive a com- specials and a free sample slice of “The success to date has been plimentary cup of pizza to all customers. remarkable,” said Arthur Patrie, coffee at each per- The major impetus behind the associate director of Donovan Dining formance. creation of the Café came from Center. The addition of the Café has The original a survey conducted two years ago increased the availability of dining opening date for that determined a large percentage services over 25 percent, he said. the Café was to be of commuter students did not take The additional hours of 7 to 10:30 September 2003. advantage of the food service at RIC, p.m. nightly and the availability on Construction set- RIC staff member Tony Carlino performs in the Coffeehouse said Penfield. Commuter students weekends, account for the increase backs delayed the Series at the Café on January 21. viewed Donovan Dining Center as in service. opening to the a place for the students residing on Students who live in the dorms beginning of this CoffeeGround. The CoffeeGround campus, he said. will be able to use points off their semester. closed in 2002 when renovations to The goal of the project was to meal plans after 7 p.m. each day. The Café’s location on the bot- the Student Union started. develop a new place and product line The Café will be open Monday tom floor of the Student Union to attract the students not patroniz- through Friday 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., was the former home of the famed “Without exception, people are ing Donovan and provide them the and on weekends from 4 p.m. to Rathskellar pub until it closed very pleased with the addition of the opportunity to “feel comfortable 10:30 p.m. . its doors in 1986 in favor of the Café,” said Penfield. Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 – Page 3 Author/educator Peter Elbow’s ‘low stakes’ game of writing

write ground to a halt, ” said Elbow, will enable them to achieve at least by Rob Martin structed and carefully copy-edited. who ended up dropping out. Elbow cited several pluses from a B grade by meeting certain require- What's News Managing Editor When he finally returned to col- frequent low-stakes writing assign- ments. He also believes in assigning lege, he decided there was “nothing ments: plenty of shorter high-stakes papers ometimes, writing the wrong worse they could do to me. If you •Students keep up with the required so students can improve on them. way is really writing the right get to a place where they can’t do reading. To evaluate writing, he has created Sway. anything more to you, it’s a relief.“ •They involve themselves more in a grid system rather than assign- So says Peter Elbow, profes- In fact, he said, “It is empowering to the subject matter of the course. ing multiple grades. There is still a fail.” That’s because it caused him to bottom-line verdict, but in his sys- sor emeritus at the University of •They get to know a field by talking Massachusetts, Amherst, and award- reevaluate the reasons why and to tem, he assigns a “Strong,” “OK” or figure out how to succeed. about it in their own lingo. “Weak” to criteria such as content, winning essayist and author on •The writing is usually livelier, teaching the art of He knew that for high volume insights, wording, voice, research writing. and revising skill. He spoke at RIC’S Conventional grades 8th Annual Faculty don’t give any “use- Development ful, substantive feed- Workshop January back,” noted Elbow. 14 in the Faculty “They are nothing but Dining Center. His markers on a yea/boo address was fol- meter. Grids tell stu- lowed by work- dents about what they s hop panels did well and badly built around the and about what they theme, “Building should try to work on a Community of in revising or in future Writers, Speakers, essays.” Thinkers & …” Elbow is a productive Elbow contrasted writer himself. Among what he termed the books he has low-stakes writing authored are Writing – early drafts that Without Teachers won’t be graded (1973), Writing With – with high-stakes Power (1981), and writing, the care- Embracing Contraries: fully scrutinized SPEAKING OF WRITING: Peter Elbow, author and professor emeritus at UMass, Amherst, addresses the annual Faculty Essays on Learning final draft that Development Workshop on January 14. and Teaching (1986). requires correct In 2000, he wrote spelling, grammar and organization. writing assignments, it was neces- clearer and more interesting. Everyone Can Write: “High-stakes writing goes better sary to churn out “garbage” to meet •The writing gets a student warmed Essays Toward a Hopeful Theory if we use low-stakes, free-writing to tight deadlines, but discovered the up for a high-stakes piece. of Writing and Teaching Writing, get the ideas out,” said Elbow. “The process was necessary to make the •When writing for a grade, students which won the James Britton award ability to not think about spelling high-stakes writing better.” When often play it safe, making general- from the Conference on English and grammar is useful to be able to Elbow became an educator, he found izations and avoiding what they’re Education. pour your full attention into learn- his low-to-high stakes approach not sure of; with low stakes writing, Elbow was invited to address the ing the subject.” Students need to could help students with their writ- they tend to explore perplexity. Faculty Development Workshop ing, and for various subjects. by Marjorie Roemer, professor of flex their free-form writing muscles, •Instead of worrying about mistakes, But students won’t practice low- English and director of the Writing and keep their minds entirely on they can write with full attention to stakes writing unless a teacher Program. The workshop was spon- their thoughts, he added. their thoughts. Elbow developed his writing sys- requires it and collects it, he said. sored by The Writing Board through •Low stakes writing can be applied tem from his own experiences at He reviews this type of writing with a grant from the RIC Faculty to math and science courses, and school, which he originally regarded a critical eye for ideas – but not mis- Development Fund and the Office problem solving in general, when as a place to get gold stars and be takes. “They learn that it’s possible of the Vice President for Academic students write the story of the steps patted on the head. The accolades to have a thought coming off the top Affairs. their minds went through as they stopped when he went to college. of your pencil that you never had Workshop sessions were orga- tried to unravel a problem. This His problem was that he viewed writ- before,” said Elbow. nized by The Writing Board, The “meta-cognitive” use of language ing as only a high-stakes task, and Students learn it’s not a waste of Committee on General Education, can improve problem-solving skills. the higher the stakes – an important, time, but rather important prepa- The Committee on the Assessment Elbow suggests that teachers cre- graded paper, for example – the ration for the high stakes piece, of Student Outcomes, Issues ate a contract with students that more pressure he felt. “My ability to the one that needs to be well-con- in Teaching and Learning, and Curriculum Committee. The Mary Tucker Thorp College Professorship The Mary Tucker Thorp College Professorship will be of those nominated will be kept confidential. As material is limited to, a demonstrated capability for: (a) communicat- awarded annually to a full professor who has demonstrated submitted to the chair of the Selection Committee the mem- ing a firm command of a body of knowledge in the context excellence in teaching, scholarship, and collegial service. bers of the Selection Committee will be informed and may of teaching and learning; (b) building on students’ curios- The recipient of the award will be the Mary Tucker Thorp begin reading the materials in a secure place. The delibera- ity to learn, thereby enhancing their desire to master the College Professor for that academic year. Along with the tions of the Selection Committee will be confidential. The discipline, practice, or field of work; (c) addressing students’ professorship there will be a $1,000 stipend and six hours of decision will be based on a majority vote. The name and diverse interests and learning styles; and (d) interacting in release time. The recipient will deliver a college-wide lecture materials of the selected individual will be forwarded to the ways that reveal a commitment to students’ total develop- in the spring of the award year. Vice President for Academic Affairs. ment. Evidence of outstanding teaching must include written The Mary Tucker Thorp College Professorship is open to The Thorp Professorship Selection Committee will con- statements by students and peers and may also include, but is all full professors with at least six years of service at Rhode sist of tenured, full-time associate and full professors who not limited to, the following: course syllabi; performance of Island College. Individuals (including those with a FAS or have been nominated by the deans/director of the schools/ students on standardized examinations or certifications; tele- FSEHD/SSW Thorp award) will be eligible for a second library by March 1 of each year. The Selection Committee vision tapes or recordings; teaching materials; comments of Thorp Professorship after an interim of at least ten years. will be established as follows: (a) three members from the faculty, students, and knowledgeable others; student achieve- The criteria for the Mary Tucker Thorp College Faculty of Arts and Sciences; (b) two members from the ments and awards; and technological innovations. Professorship are below. Feinstein School of Education and Human Development, The criterion of demonstrated excellence in teaching For the 2004-05 Thorp Professorship, the deadline for one of whom will be a member with a joint appointment in must be accompanied by either excellence in scholarship or nominations is February 19, 2004. Nominated individu- the arts and sciences; (c) one member each from the School excellence in professional and collegial service, or both. als will be requested to submit their supporting material by of Management and Technology, the School of Social Work Excellence in scholarship is characterized by a sustained March 29, 2004. The Selection Committee will attempt to and from among the librarians with faculty status; and (d) academic history of research or creativity in a field of inquiry, make its recommendation on or about May 1, 2004. the most recent Thorp Professor. The chair of the Selection professional practice, or artistic work. Evidence of sustained In subsequent years the Call for Nominations will occur Committee will be elected by the members of the commit- scholarship and/or creativity may include, but is not limited on or about April 15 of each year (deadline for nominations tee. The Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs will to: published articles in professional journals, books, mono- on or about May 15). The submission of supporting material serve as liaison to the Selection Committee. graphs, and technical reports; recognized creative works at will be on or about the following October 1. The Committee The 2004 Thorp Selection Committee members are: artistic forums; presentations at scholarly meetings; procure- will make its recommendation by February 15. The recipi- James Barton, 2003-04 FSEHD Thorp Professor; Ellen Bigler, ment and execution of external grants; and implementation ent of the award will be announced at the academic year FSEHD – joint appointment with FAS; Jeffrey Blais, SMT; of field-tested projects. opening convocation (President’s address to the College Rachel Carpenter, AL; Stephen Fisher, FAS; John Gleason, Excellence in professional and/or collegial service may community). FSEHD; Pamela Jackson, 2003-04 FAS Thorp Professor; be characterized by, but is not limited to: (a) promotion of The Call for Nominations will be made by the chair of Lloyd Matsumoto, Chair, FAS; Jayashree Nimmagadda, changes in local or federal policy; (b) promotion of organi- the Thorp Professorship Selection Committee. Nominations SSW; Barbara Schapiro, FAS; James McCroskery, Liaison to zational development; (c) promotion of personnel develop- may be made by any member of the College community the Committee. ment; and (d) participation in, contribution to, or leader- and may be submitted to any member of the Selection Mary Tucker Thorp College Professorship Criteria: ship in departmental or college administration/governance Committee. Eligible nominees will be notified of their nomi- The first criterion, required of all candidates, is a pro- or student service. Demonstration of excellence in service nation by the chair of the Selection Committee and pro- tracted term of demonstrated excellence in teaching. Such requires documentation of the cited (or additional) charac- vided with the criteria and deadline information. The names excellence may be characterized by, but is not necessarily teristics by the applicant and/or others. Page 4– What’s News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 Foundation & Alumni News

O u r F l o r i d a and friends an update on the luncheons and changes on campus, highlighted in RIC on the road visits were very a short film which also gave a brief successful. We history of the College. managed to visit Many alumni spoke of the excep- with almost 120 tional education they experienced a l u m n i i n t h e while students at the College. West Palm Beach We anticipate our RIC on the a n d F t . M y e r s Road events will continue to areas. (See pho- attract alumni and friends for our tos on right.) Sesquicentennial celebration. P r e s i d e n t O n March 9 we will visit N a z a r i a n a n d Washington, DC and April 7 we’ll be by Ellie O’Neill Vice President in New York City, followed by a trip Director, Alumni for Development to San Diego on April 17. Affairs a n d C o l l e g e For details, call the Alumni Office Relations Peg at 401-456-8086 or visit the College Brown spoke about the Capital web site at www.ric.edu. Campaign and brought the alumni …and away she goes!

A clear sky, hot cocoa and The Young Alumni Group At Doubletree Hotel Palm Beach Gardens: (l to r) Adele Jamnik Alexander ’77, two hours of swooshing down sponsored their first-ever snow John Black, Mary McGuiness Black ’50, Isabelle Fruit Dickens ’40 and Helen Page a quick snow-slicked track… it tubing night which was enjoyed Gilligan ’47. was a perfect night for winter by 40 alumni, staff and friends fun on February 5 at Yawgoo of the College. All the kids – and Valley Ski Area. kids at heart – had a great time.

Members of the Class of 1954 at Sanibel resort (l to r) Nancy Welch Goulet, Corinne O’Brien Murphy, President John Nazarian and Lillian Connelly DeGiulio.

Patty Nevola Testa ’00 is ready for a trip down the track with help from a Yawgoo staff member. .EW!LUMNI$IRECTORYAVAILABLE

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The Class of 1947 had a great turn-out in Fort Myers. Pictured left to right: Mary Holton McKenney, Alice Bigbee Goulet, Lee Clancy Breig, Marion McCarthy Rooney and Ellen Fay Shannon. What’s News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 – Page 5 Sesquicentennial Memories The General Assembly votes to re-establish the Rhode Island Normal School

During the course of the College’s Sesquicentennial observance, Michael Smith, assistant to the president, periodically contributes to What’s  News  at Rhode Island College a brief glimpse of an historic College event that occurred at some point in the institution’s history corresponding  to the   publication date of that particular edition of What’s News. This is the 12th installment.

On Tuesday, February 28, 1871, ment overcame the surprise, and mitted to the Rhode Island Senators, we have come to the hour House of Representatives, where State Education Commissioner for consideration and action on decision and action were immedi- Thomas W. Bicknell ventured to ate. it would be unanimously rec- one of the most important mea- ommended by the Committee the Old State House on Benefit Mr. Bicknell spoke over an hour, sures of the session; a measure of on Education and subsequently Street to hear the State Senate vital interest to all the people of setting forth in the strongest argu- debate a measure to re-estab- passed unanimously by the full Rhode Island, in that it has to do ments at his command, the reason House, becoming law on March lish the Rhode Island Normal with the education of teachers, who for establishing a Normal School School, which had ceased opera- 15, 1871, along with an appro- are to aid in the education of our in Rhode Island. At the close of his priation of $10,000 for the first t i o n s i n J u l y children. address, questions were asked by of 1865. What year of operations. There is a gentle- several Senators as to the features On March 16, 1871, Th e Bicknell did not of the bill, among which were the know was that man in the Senate Providence Journal editorial- chamber, who is the amount of the appropriation, the ized thusly: h e w o u l d b e location of the school, the number called upon to leader in the move- “The friends of common of teachers, probable number of lead the debate ment for a State schools will rejoice to see that o n t h e f l o o r Normal School, pupils, etc. the project of establishing a of the Senate, and who is famil- Senator Powell, of Newport, while then, as in the iar with the argu- questioning took occasion to state years since, an ments in its favor his position, and his early objec- extraordinarily f a r b e y o n d t h e tions to a Normal School in Rhode rare occur- members of this Island, as intimated in the quota- rence. body. tion from his letter. In a third-per- I refer to Hon. It was one o’clock when Governor son narrative, T h o m a s W . Padelford called the Senate to Bicknell him- B i c k n e l l , o u r resume its session, and without self describes Commissioner of debate, Senator Dean, of Warren, t h i s e v e n t i n Public Schools. moved the passage of the bill, which his 1911 book, I m o v e , M r . was seconded by several Senators, The Story of the THOMAS W. BICKNELL President, that and on a viva voce vote, no Senator Rhode Island t h e H o n o r a b l e voting against the bill, the Normal School: Commissioner be Governor declared the bill passed At 11 a.m., Commissioner invited to address the Senate on by unanimous vote. Bicknell left his office for the the bill now before this body, and At this point, Senator Nathaniel Senate chamber in the old State to that end, that the Senate now Peckham, of South Kingstown, House on Benefit street, to listen to take a recess, to reconvene after his stated that he wished to make some the debate on the bill. Taking his address.” remarks on the bill, and would like GOV. SETH PADELFORD seat in the lobby, he waited the hour Senator Dean’s motion was to have it laid on the table until the of debate. seconded and passed and the next morning. State Normal School has been At 11 a.m., Governor Padelford Senators, in the recess, kept their In courtesy to the Senator, the received with so much favor, and will watch its further prog- announced that the bill for a seats, and Governor Padelford bill was so disposed of, and at the Normal School was the special order next session, the Senator said he ress with profound interest. invited Mr. Bicknell to address the Its successful finality must be of the day, and called on the secre- Senate from the president’s plat- had decided not to speak upon the tary of state, Joshua M. Addeman, bill, and on motion of Senator regarded a signal triumph of form. the cause of popular education to read the bill. Dean it was passed by the Rhode The Commissioner was surprised in our State, and the assured After its reading, Sidney M. by this most unusual, unprece- Island Senate, by an unanimous precursor of better teachers Dean, Senator from Warren, arose dented and most unexpected turn vote, March 1, 1871. and better schools.” and said: ”Mr. President and of affairs, while the high compli- The measure would be trans- (Not just) academically speaking RIC student body reflects the faces of Rhode Island

Who are the “typical” Rhode Pacific Islanders, American-Indian/ one who consistently applied meet the requirements of the artic- Island College Alaskan Natives, and those who him/herself throughout the high ulation agreement are guaranteed s t u d e n t s ? categorize themselves as “other” school experience, the result being admission to RIC. Where do they (usually students who check more an overall achievement of a class The College also works in con- c o m e f r o m , than one racial category or none at rank in the top 50 percent and a junction with several high school what level of all). Not surprisingly, English is not 3.0 GPA. Other programs for admis- programs to attract qualified inner academic prep- the native language of 10 percent of sion are the Honors Program, the city and racial/ethnic minority stu- aration do they our freshmen. The reported median Presidential Scholarship Program, dents, such as the Upward Bound bring, and how family income for our students is and the Feinstein Scholarship (TRIO Program), Mount Pleasant d o t h e y g a i n slightly higher than $55,400. Program. Teacher Academy (collabora- admission? Those are the tangible statistics. A small percentage of our students tion between Providence School E a c h f a l l , The intangibles are that Rhode who fall just short of our traditional Department/RIC/City, Educational more than 80 Island College students are commit- admission requirements join us via Talent Search (TRIO Program), and by Deborah percent of the ted, competent individuals who are one of our Alternative Admission Children’s’ Crusade (Gear Up, a Johnson, students who determined to succeed in college programs: The Preparatory funded mentor program) Associate Director j o i n u s a r e despite the number of socio-eco- Enrollment Program (Rhode Island So, who are the typical Rhode of Admissions f r o m R h o d e nomic challenges that many of them students only), Performance Based Island College students? I s l a n d . T h e face every day. The challenge for Admissions program (older stu- They are a microcosm of the rest are from the Admissions Office is to review dents), Provisional Admission larger society. They are students Massachusetts, Connecticut and each applicant’s credentials and (low achievement – high SAT-I), who go on to graduate and gradu- other states throughout the coun- determine if Rhode Island College Conditional (an obvious weakness ate school, and distinguish them- try. We also attract a small number is the right fit. that can be addressed and strong in selves by working in the fields of of students from foreign countries. There are several admission pro- other areas). medicine, education, politics, tech- Two-thirds of our students are grams that are designed to provide Approximately 40 percent of nology, fine and performing arts, female and most of our students an opportunity for qualified stu- the students we enroll each fall and a host of other areas. They are are of traditional college age. More dents to gain admission. The major- are transfer students, most from our parents, our brothers and sis- than half are first generation college ity of students join us through the the Community College of Rhode ters, our friends, our children…they students. Eighty-five percent are Traditional Admission program. Island. RIC and the University of are you and I. white. The remaining 15 percent are This is the student who is a good Rhode Island have an articulation They are the faces of Rhode Hispanic, black, Asian-American/ solid citizen in high school, some- agreement with CCRI. Students who Island. Page 6– Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004

of Gonsalves, agreed. He said his Channel Radio, Gonsalves family misses Gonsalves and always which owns WHJY, will. “Something happens every the radio station Continued from page 1 day to remind me of him, and I’m where Gonsalves sure that will continue for years to w a s e m p l o y e d , Cahir ’89, a longtime friend of come.” contributes one Gonsalves. G o n s a l v e s ’ third of the funds A scholarship in his name was f a t h e r , N e i l it collects to RIC’s t h e p e r f e c t Gonsalves, is Gonsalves schol- way to do this, a professor of arship fund. The s a i d C a h i r . biology at the remainder of that “Mike was a College. He said money goes to the fixture on the that he and his Station Nightclub c a m p u s f o r family are very Fire Relief Fund to many years. happy that his help support fire Even after he son’s friends victims and their graduated, he took charge of families. w o u l d s i n g GINA MATTERA the project and A week after the RIC’s praises sustained his fire, Gonsalves’ ETCHED IN STONE: The rock on College Road is painted in on his radio memory in this fraternity brothers memory of ”Gonzo,” aka, Michael Gonsalves. s h o w , v i s i t way, and hopes the scholarship will trudged through MICHAEL IANNONE the (campus) become an annual award. i c e a n d f a l l i n g radio station “I think it’s wonderful that we snow to paint the rock on College Anyone interested in contribut- and mentor the disc jockeys, and can get this (scholarship) off the Road with the words, “In memory ing to the Michael J. Gonsalves ’86 attend fraternity meetings,” Cahir ground so quickly, and that we are of Gonzo,” a stark reminder that Scholarship Endowment Fund can said. taking care of our own students,” their friend would not be returning send a check, payable to the Rhode Cahir said that Gonsalves was Neil Gonsalves said. He added that to the campus. Island College Foundation, with DOC “generous to a fault,” often treat- though the scholarship is intended “He was the best friend anyone SCHOLARSHIP FUND written on ing his friends to tickets to sport- for students somehow connected to could ever have,” said Cahir. He said the memo line, to 600 Mt. Pleasant ing events or lavishing gifts on the fire, eventually there will be no that if Mike were alive, he would tell Avenue, Providence, RI 02908. their children. “The scholarship is more of these people in need, and students not to forget where you another way that Mike just keeps it will be given to communications came from. All gifts will be acknowledged. The on giving,” Cahir added. students. According to his friends, Mike Gonsalves family will be notified of Artie Tefft, another close friend The Doc Fund, established by Clear never did. contributions. Five-year State Improvement Grant receives funding for second year

Rhode Island College’s Paul V. Sherlock Center. Sherlock Center on Disabilities The goals of the State Improvement received $600,075 from the state Grant are (1) To ensure that all stu- Department of Education as part dents with disabilities are taught of a five-year State Improvement by highly qualified teachers; (2) To Grant awarded to Rhode Island by expand the opportunities available the U.S. Department of Education in to children with disabilities to par- 2002. The funding is for the period ticipate in the general curriculum November 1, 2003 to October 31, and to improve the performance of 2004. these children on state assessments This project, now in its second and other outcome measures; and year, is a “collaboration of state (3) To develop and inform educa- agencies, higher education, schools, tional leaders who will facilitate the family organizations, leadership participation and progress of chil- organizations, and others,” said dren with disabilities in the general Anthony Antosh, director of the curriculum. Unusual delicacies on the menu at the Phylum Party, set for March 25

The Biology Department, with the sample morsels of food from many dif- support of the Biology Club and other ferent and unusual phyla, including the interested biology students, is sponsor- kingdoms of Fungi and Eubacteria. ing a Phylum Party on Thursday, March The cost for faculty, staff and parents is 25 in the Fogarty Life Science Biology $10; students $5; and administrators $20. Lounge from 5-7:30 p.m. Tickets must be purchased by March 18, OUT TO AFRICA: The two first grade classes in Henry Barnard School, taught by Chef Frank Terranova of Johnson & through the Biology Department office Joan Bloom and Pam Manninen, are preparing to send school supplies collected by Wales University, and NBC10's Cooking in Fogarty Life Science room 252 (401- the pupils to a school in the Bafokeng Territory of South Africa. Above from left are with Class show will be the special guest 456-8010). Proceeds from this event go first graders Hayden Ross, 7; Adebambo Osinaga, 6; Nicholas Wilkins, 6; and Capri judge. to support biology student awards, prizes Lamboy, 6. This party offers the opportunity to and scholarships.

MFA program Beginning in September of 2004, half-way houses, or wherever their Independent Masters Degree pro- Performance & Society MFA classes creative potential may lead them,” gram. By 1994, the program evolved Continued from page 1 will be offered. Stage Management said P. William Hutchinson, profes- into a MFA degree program in the- and Technical Theatre MFA classes sor of theatre. Hutchinson had, until atre. As of May 2003, RIC had grad- of RIC, Trinity Rep’s Education will start in September of 2005. Each recently, coordinated the graduate uated approximately 60 IMA stu- Department, Perishable Theatre, degree option will take three years to theatre program at RIC for 22 years. dents, 56 MFA acting students and The Providence Black Repertory complete. Students in the Stage Management seven MFA directing students. Theatre, and AS220. Performance & Society is a con- and Technical Theatre programs will Now, after being absent for the Oskar Eustis, artistic director of servatory-styled professional act- learn to write, direct, perform in, 2003-04 academic year, the MFA in Trinity Rep, noted that the MFA ing and directing program that also manage and design complete pro- theatre program is back and “greater program is a “direct continuation focuses on the role of theatre in the ductions. And as part of the Trinity than ever,” said Weiner. “It not only of mixing professional theatre community. Students will intern in Rep Consortium, they will interact fully constitutes Oskar Eustis’s with academic theatre – mixing Providence theatres and help pro- with the acting and directing com- vision of a consortium, but also, in them into a curriculum of incred- duce programs in schools and local ponents of Brown’s program. Both establishing the Downtown Theatre ible achievement, expanding and groups. In addition, students can programs will include courses in Collaborative, creates a unique enhancing options.” obtain provisional certification to drama history and literature. graduate program centered around In a letter of support to the teach K-12 theatre and eventually Stage Management candidates will theatre engaging schools and com- College, Mark J. Lerman, artis- qualify for a five-year certification. also study labor issues and pub- munities,” he said. “This will be the tic director of Perishable Theatre, “The Performance & Society pro- lic policy, while those in Technical most directed effort of this kind in said, “I congratulate the faculty and gram will provide graduate students Theatre will be taught drafting, the USA.” leadership of the Arts and Sciences from all over the country the oppor- structural design and theatre and Student recruitment for RIC’s new at Rhode Island College for their tunity to learn how to use their artis- performance history. MFA theatre program is already vision and commitment to this tic talents to work with individuals RIC’s affiliation with Trinity underway. For information, con- innovative and groundbreaking in the public schools, rehabilitation Rep dates back to 1982, when tact Richard Weiner at 456-8107or new program.” centers, senior centers, prisons, the two institutions developed an [email protected]. Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 – Page 7 Decision 2004: RIC students get ‘up close and personal’ with presidential candidates in New Hampshire

Sophomore Michael Philbin spoke by David Cranshaw ’05 to politicsNH.com about the role What's News Intern religion played in politics. Senior Jennifer Demers and Arnold were part of a piece that ran on College Sports Television (CSTV) that tied hode Island College students sports to politics. They were asked got a firsthand look at the to identify the candidate they sup- Rpresidential campaigns of ported and to choose a sport the the democratic hopefuls and expe- candidate would play if not involved rienced the excitement leading up in politics. to the first primary in the nation in “The convention allowed students 2004 in New Hampshire. with all different morals, values and N ine students visited New beliefs to come together to have the Hampshire January 22-25 to hear opportunity to appreciate and bet- the candidates’ final attempts to ter understand politics and make persuade voters before the primary the best decision possible to vote on January 27. for president of the United States,” “It was a chance to take the theory said Arnold. and discussion from the classroom Lesperance said to reality,” said Kay Israel, associ- he hoped the par- ate professor of communications, ticipants would who accompanied the students on g a i n a g r e a t e r the trip. “It is one thing to look at awareness of the a topic under a microscope, it is issues that affect another to experience it.” t h e m a n d t h e ABOVE: RIC students hear how Senator John Kerry will appeal The excursion offered students ability to interact to voters at a rally days before the nation's first primary of the opportunity to explore retail with those candi- 2004, in New Hampshire. Kerry was supported by Rhode politics, said Valerie Endress, assis- dates who seek Island Representative Patrick Kennedy (right) and his father, tant professor of communications, the highest office Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy, (center) at the rally. (Photo who planned the trip. in the land. by Kay Israel, RIC associate professor of communications. “The New Hampshire Primary and The two trips were a continua- the Iowa Caucus provides a unique INSET: RIC senior Jennifer Demers asks Kerry a question at the opportunity to see the political tion of a course College Convention 2004 held January 7-10 in New Hampshire. taught jointly in process up close and personal. In (Photo by RIC freshman Matthew Stott) the contests following, the media the fall semester controls much of the coverage, and by Endress and it’s less likely that citizens have the Israel. The class, opportunity to interact with candi- Whipple Hall, Adams Library and former Vermont Governor Howard “Communication dates.” Gaige Hall will showcase campaign Dean, Representative Dennis and the 2004 Presidential Campaign: After traveling around the state, buttons, signs, bumper stickers and Kucinich (Ohio), Senator Joe Surfacing to the Primary,” let stu- the students determined that voter pictures from the New Hampshire Lieberman (Connecticut), retired dents follow a candidate for the apathy would not be an issue in this primary. General Wesley Clark and former semester and become their alter- election. This was not the first time this Ambassador Carol Moseley Braun. ego. “Seeing hundreds of people want- election year that RIC students got (Lieberman, Clark and Braun have Each student chose a candidate to ing to hear candidates speak shows a look at the 2004 election process since left the race.) cover for the semester and ended me that Americans are still passion- in New Hampshire. Twenty-two stu- “We want to promote greater the course with a presentation act- ate about politics,” said junior polit- dents attended College Convention civic awareness and engagement ing as that candidate’s political con- ical science major Diane Ascencao. 2004 at New England College in among young people,” said Wayne sultant, offering ideas and sugges- tions to improve the campaign. “I loved how everywhere you went Manchester from January 7-10 Lesperance, co-director of the con- people knew who the candidates to hear candidates appeal to the vention. T he course is continuing were and asked for your opinions,” younger generation. RIC was the Some RIC students received face this semester, now focusing on said sophomore communications only school in Rhode Island that time from local and national media “Convention to Election.” Victor major Nicole Giambusso. was represented at the conference. outlets. PBS interviewed juniors Profughi, professor of political sci- ence, will join Endress and Israel in S tudents who went to New Seven of the then nine major William Senecal, Robert Kalaskowski teaching the course. Hampshire will take their knowl- Democratic candidates spoke to the and April Arnold for a documentary edge of the political process to area contingent of about 600 high school on the impact of third-party candi- Plans are in progress to visit high schools to educate future vot- and college students representing 38 dates on the presidential election. the Democratic and Republican ers. Displays will be erected around states. The candidates included sen- Kalaskowski also talked to a national conventions this summer, the RIC campus to showcase 2004 ators John Kerry (Massachusetts), reporter from the Baltimore Sun, to be held in Boston and New York election memorabilia. Those in and John Edwards (North Carolina), to voice his support for Clark. respectively. Media Appreciation Night On January 27, RIC's media partners were invited to attend a reception and the performance of George Wein's Newport Jazz Festival. The event was to thank members of the media for their continued support and coverage of the College.

ABOVE (l to r) KIERAN KEATING of RI Monthly Magazine, Don Fowler of Beacon NEWS ANCHOR FRANK COLETTA (left) of NBC10's Sunrise Show chats with Communications and Providence Journal's Ray College President John Nazarian. Adams talk shop. (Inset): Steve Bianchi and Lynn Abrams of radio station WADK enjoy the party. Page 8– Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 Black History Month… at Rhode Island College Unity Center Unity Center seeks to enhance Mission Statement RIC’s multicultural experience The Unity Center is Rhode Island College's multicultural center. It pro- motes opportunities for exploring Aaron Bruce describes RIC’s Unity field. To make sure The Unity Center is Center as the “cultural hub of the Two major events are planned providing the latest, best and most human dignity, social identity, and campus community.” As the cen- for October – a Sister-to-Sister comprehensive services available, cultural equity. ter’s recently appointed director, Conference on leadership for Bruce is working with a national he’s working to encourage greater women of color, and an African multicultural center accreditation The Center fosters collaborative understanding and appreciation of American and Hispanic leadership program. “We’re looking at moni- programming among its student the ethnic and cultural diversity on conference for males. These com- toring program standards so we affiliations, faculty and the local campus. panion events are open to college know where we should be setting Bruce, who is from Princeton, and high school students. Both will our goals,” he explained. community. It is committed to chal- New Jersey, joined the College on feature workshops on empower- One issue centrally important to lenging stereotypes, racism, apa- January 5. He brings two aspects of ment, business etiquette, building Bruce is retention. “Although there thy, and gender discrimination. his previous work history that he relationships and more. is a wide diversity of students being intends to apply in his new role: the Bruce is currently creating a cul- accepted at RIC, not all are graduat- The Center's concern is to maintain business wisdom gained working tural resource room in The Unity ing,” he said. To that end, he wants global awareness by responding to in international marketing for cor- to make students feel more “com- current events while preparing oth- porations, and his having worked fortable” in their academic and most recently in a community col- social experience at RIC. He is also ers to be productive citizens of the lege in his home state, which, like interested in research involving the world. RIC, has a large commuter student use of overseas study as a retention population. tool. The Center is also a place where He said that his business expe- With all the activity taking place in students can engage their peers and rience in particular will be helpful The Unity Center, Bruce said he was faculty about what is being taught in the marketing and fund-raising grateful for the seven work-study activities needed for the job. His students who assist in making the in the classroom and is a space for background will also aid in estab- organization run. They help coordi- dialogue and discussion. We strive lishing new mentoring programs nate programs, research the intern- to preserve, bolster, and enrich stu- with corporations, he added. ship database, provide design work This month, The Unity Center is for the website and other graphic dents' cultural, social, and ethnic busy promoting the College’s cele- projects, and help to plan confer- identity. bration of Black History Month with Center. A one-stop information ences and workshops. shop, it will contain books, maga- a full schedule of events related to “The thread that runs through The Unity Center is located the African American experience zines, CDs and art related to mul- the Unity Center is leadership and ticulturalism. Students will also in the Donovan Dining Center, (see below right). In the spring, the global understanding,” said Bruce. Lower Level Diversity in Technology Luncheon be able to find listings of various “It’s important that all students diversity conferences and meetings Series will debut, focusing on ways work in harmony with others, with (401) 456-8791 that underrepresented groups can and explore scholarship opportuni- people who have different back- ties for minorities. become a part of the technology grounds than their own.” [email protected]

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››Þ>’Ñ È°i’Ñ ÞȋVÑ*Å>‹ÈiÑ ›Èi–L’iÑrÑ ›Ñ › ÅÑ wÑ ÅµÑ >ÅӋ›ÑÞӈiÅÑ‹›€ÑÅµÑ • Advocate for the uti- ->°‹›È’içÑ>’’Ñ‹›ÑӈiÑ >ë>ŋ>›Ñ i›ÓiÅËÑÌÑ°µ–µËÑfÕ lization of technology in overseas study. ÛiÀÞÊ-՘`>Þ • Joined RIC January 2004. >° i‹Å>Ñ i– ›ÈÓÅ>Ӌ ›ÑrÑi>śÑӈiÑ
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³ËÑ students as opposed to helping corporations make more money.” -ÓÞ`i›ÓÑ1›‹ ›Ñ >’’Å –ËÑnÑ°µ–µËÑwÅii • Why he came to RIC: “An excellent opportunity and a great chal- lenge.” ’>V‘Ñ‹ÈÓ ÅçÑ› å’i`€iÑ ›ÓiÈÓÑrÑ ‹€Ñ*ŋëiÈuÑ ›Ó>VÓÑӈiÑ1›‹ÓçÑ i›ÓiÅÑ>ÓѲ}í§³Ñ}yΊn̜§Ñw Åі Åiы›w Ŗ>Ӌ › • On becoming a part of the College: “People were warm, receptive, welcoming.” >ÀV ÊÓäÊ • He plans to…“learn a lot more about the Rhode Island community.” >Å>–LiiÑ-Ói°Ñ 氒 ȋ ›ÑrÑ, LiÅÓÈÑ>’’Ñ
Þ`‹Ó ŋޖËÑÌÑ°µ–µËÑ `iÓ>‹’ÈÑÓ Ñw ’’ å Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 – Page 9

Black History Month… atPhenomenal Rhode Females: the Island Women College of Rhode Island College The Normal School’s first woman of color

By Marlene Lopes, Special She earned respect as one of the dent registers record the Collections Librarian and Associate best teachers in the state. During names, gender, and ages Professor in the James P. Adams the late 19th century when African of applicants, their home- Library American women’s groups were towns, and the names of routinely excluded from national their fathers, but make women’s clubs, she gained fame no references to race or hen did the first person of as a co-founder and leader of the ethnicity. color graduate from Rhode National Association of Colored T r e a s u r e t r o v e s o f WIsland College? This decep- Women, an umbrella organization detailed Rhode Island tively simple question set me on a for state and local clubs that strove College history, such as slow motion roller coaster search to achieve social and educational Thomas W. Bicknell’s through the College’s archives and reform and to end racial and gender History of the Rhode special collections. discrimination. Island Normal School, Along the way there were many An activist in the movement to 1871-1911 (1911) and dead ends, several mysteries, some “educate and uplift” the Negro race, the Memoir of Dana Pond surprises, and, at last, a plausible she became famous as a writer and Colburn, First Principal of the R.I. State Normal School (1862), are bereft of race-related data. Photographs of early graduates are rare, and yearbooks, as we know them, did not appear until 1926. The names SCHEDULE and entry requirements from the RI State of graduates and Normal School’s Catalog and Circular, 1860. This pub- their home cities or lication also lists the names of that year's graduates, towns, published which includes Clementine Tweedy, one of the first cumulatively from African Americans to graduate from the school. 1854 to 1860 and annually from 1872 through Fanny Jackson-Coppin, the first 1938 in the school catalogs, female principal of the Institute for provide clues to ethnicity. More Colored Youth in Philadelphia (later importantly, they allow us to known as Cheney State College), a verify information about grad- popular speaker, writer, and activ- uates and their tenure here. ist for women’s rights, founder of With the Normal School the Women’s Exchange and Girls Catalog for 1879 I was able Home for students and female to confirm that Josephine A. workers, civic leader, and overseas Silone of Newport, R.I. gradu- missionary. Her graduation from ated in June of that year. A later the Normal School was in 1860. listing provided an address in Born into slavery in 1837, Frances Kansas City and the name of Jackson was 12 years old when an her husband, William W. Yates. aunt purchased her freedom for Returning to the Internet I $125 and sent her north to live hunted for the names of other with relatives, first in New Bedford early graduates by combining and later in Newport. Employed as terms that would incorporate a domestic, she attended public race (COLORED, OF COLOR, school for a short time and used her answer. In outlining my quest I speaker. Two biographical sources NEGRO, AFRICAN AMERICAN, etc.), salary to pay for a private tutor and share with you one of the lesser proclaim that Josephine Silone the NORMAL SCHOOL, and RHODE piano lessons. With the encourage- known stories of the College’s 150- Yates was probably this school’s ISLAND. ment of her employers, her desire year history. first graduate of color. Along with many false leads I n last summer’s special But were they correct? An Internet this process yielded the name of Continued on page 11 Sesquicentennial edition of What’s search under her News I identified two very early n a m e b r o u g h t African American graduates. Rose p r o f e s s i o n a l Butler Browne, for whom Browne achievements to Residence Hall is named, was born light, but revealed in Boston in 1897 and received her nothing about her certificate from the Normal School life at the school. in 1919. Was she a pioneer Recent research has indicated in breaking barri- that Josephine Silone Yates, another ers of race or had outstanding educator, predated Dr. she enrolled here Browne by 40 years. Originally from b e c a u s e t h e r e New York, she had been sent to live were no barriers? with an aunt in Newport where she Whose footsteps became not only the first graduate might she have of color at Rogers High School but f o l l o w e d , a n d also the valedictorian of her class. how could I find In 1879, fourteen years after the out? end of the Civil War, she received Nothing in the her certificate, with honors, from founding docu- the Rhode Island State Normal ments or recruit- School. Afterward she traveled west ment literature to Lincoln Institute in Jefferson, o f t h e N o r m a l Missouri where, as its first female School indicates professor, she taught chemistry that race was ever and later served as chair of its natu- a factor of enroll- ral science department. ment. Early stu- STATE NORMAL SCHOOL Senior A Class, spring term, 1893. Page 10– Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 RIC undergrads and nurse leader join nursing honor society

T w e n t y - e i g h t R h o d e This continuing series in What’s News will feature RIC grads Island College senior nurs- whose career paths have taken some unusual turns. ing students and a nurse leader were inducted Solange “Sally” Sevigny-Skyer ’73 into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society YEARS of Nursing last December in arning a BS in elementary encouragement forced her to a ceremony at the Quonset of education/special education persist in spite of frustrations O Club in North Kingstown, Nursing from Rhode Island College E about her communication skills Rhode Island. at may not seem that unusual, but and personal setbacks. The new members were Rhode for Sally Skyer, it certainly took a Following class lectures was inducted through the honor lot of determination. her greatest challenge. “I was society’s Delta Upsilon Island Skyer is profoundly deaf. only able to lip read 30 to 35 per- Chapter-at-Large. College She was born that way as a cent of what my professors pre- Also, Jane Williams, chair result of an inherited condition sented. I was too shy to ask class- of the nursing department on her father’s side of the family. mates for copies of class notes,” at RIC, received the Louisa She attended classes and com- she said. “As a voracious reader, White Recognition Award pleted her coursework without I made up for what I missed in for Nursing Leadership. Sara Burton, a nursing student at the College, was presented an Sigma Theta Tau International Undergraduate Scholarship Award. Inductees: Sigma Theta Tau International is RIC senior nursing students: an organization of nurse leaders, Bamidele Adetunji, Alisyn Amylot, scholars, and researchers commit- Kim Auclair, Lucy Baldes, Mary ted to improving the health of the Baranski, RN, Sara Burton, Jessica public by advancing nursing sci- Clegg, Tamara DeSousa, RN, Wendy ence. The honor society, founded Donnelly, Melanie Dubois, Kelly at Indiana University in 1922, cur- Dyndar, Kimberly Foster, RN, rently has chapters at more that Melissa Furtado, Christina Goff, 523 college and university cam- Christine Jardine, Joseph Kern, RN. puses worldwide. And, Kristen Lescault, Lori Membership in the society is Leydon, Jessica Lovely, Rebecca awarded to bachelors, masters, and Menard, Jennifer O’Brien, Theresa doctoral candidates who achieve Paquetta, Lisa Pate, John Pescarino, high scholastic averages, and to Lynn Provost, Steven Schlink, graduates of nursing programs Donna Tsimortos, RN, Amy Veloz. who have made outstanding lead- Nurse Leader: Kristen Sayles, ership contributions to nursing. RN ’99.

SALLY SKYER the benefit of support services class discussions.” such as language interpretation, She recalls freshman math as       tutoring or notetaking. a “nightmare.” She passed music For the last 25 years, Skyer has appreciation by rote memorizing worked as a professor and col- to play Mary Had a Little Lamb lege counselor at the National on the piano. Then there were Technical Institute for the Deaf the student teaching assignments in Rochester, New York, one of working with hearing children, the colleges within the Rochester which Skyer claims confirmed Institute of Technology. her desire to teach. Her evalua- Skyer was raised in Woonsocket tor was an experienced profes- by hearing parents. She attended sor who initially doubted Skyer’s mainstream schools in the ability to instruct a class, but Providence area, and learned to soon realized Skyer was no ordi- speak and lip read through the nary teacher and had a great deal Windmill Street School’s program to offer her students. for deaf and hearing impaired students. She graduated with Despite the difficulties, Skyer honors from Central High School appreciated not being treated dif- in Providence, and aspired to a ferently than other students and college degree. that no exceptions were made for her deafness. “My desire to be gainfully employed as a professional, to “ I had to earn my grades be independent from my fam- through hard work. Today, deaf ily, and to prove my capabilities, students have the benefit of sign regardless of my deafness were language interpreters and note the reasons for wanting to attend takers to make participating in college,” Skyer said. Like many class discussions possible,” she RIC students, she was the first explains. person in her family to go to col- Skyer went on to earn a mas- lege. ters in counseling the deaf Paul Sherlock, then head of from Gallaudet University the special education program at in Washington, DC, and has the College and long-time advo- received the Northeast USA cate for persons with disabilities, Quota Deaf Woman Award and interviewed Skyer for acceptance the International Quota Deaf to the College. Woman of the Year Award. “While we talked, he smoked, As a counselor, she is living chewed gum, turned his head proof to her students that deaf- sideways and mumbled to see if I ness, or any disability, is not a good reason to give up on pursu- was able to understand and hold Mr. and Mrs. Jack Francisco Jr. a conversation with him,” she ing a dream. Jack and I met the last semester of our senior year (January 2001) in the remembered. Her students have something class "Pyschology of Women.” Jack was one of three guys in the class! I sat Skyer credits Sherlock as else in their favor – Sally Skyer to behind him. We dated and married on August 2, 2003. her inspiration, saying that his counsel them. — Amanda J. Houle Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 – Page 11 ers well in their 20s. Most were fully entitle her to the privileges Women of RIC single, but a few were married. of membership.” Towards the end Dr. Rose Butler Continued from page 9 Several were experienced teachers of the term the recorder made this when they arrived; others dropped observation: their course work when they were It is worthy of notice, as indicat- Browne Award to be educated and to teach others offered positions as teachers. In ing to some extent the liability to led her to the Normal School which any case, the records say nothing error in judging of the scholarship was then located in Bristol. further about Mary Offee. of individuals by the results of a Nomination deadline: After completing the program Clementine Tweedy, on the other written examination, that several February 27, 2004 she enrolled at Oberlin College, the hand, reappears in the 1857 register of those who are marked very low first four-year college in the U.S. to of attendance, and we learn that she in the table of results, have been admit women and one of the first came from the city of Providence. among the best and most promis- About the Award to accept students of all races. As The Catalog of 1860 lists her name ing members of the school. The Rose Butler Browne Award the Civil War was being fought, she among the graduates. Watson completed her course- On September 11, 1854, the start work in either 1855 or 1856. Hired was estab- completed her studies with distinc- lished in 1976 tion and helped earn her way by of the second term of that initial to teach by the American Missionary providing piano lessons to the chil- year, it was recorded that “Miss Association, she traveled to Norfolk, by friends and dren of faculty. Mary E. Watson, a colored girl from Virginia. There, as part of a pioneer- a d m i r e r s o f At night she taught freed blacks Newport, was examined, and though ing band of college educated Black D r. B r o w n e , very deficient, was on account women, she dedicated her efforts in an adult education program that a 1919 gradu- she started. She received her bach- of some peculiar circumstances, toward the education, elevation, elors degree in 1865, making her allowed to enter on trial, leaving the and improvement of the status of a t e o f R h o d e one of the first American women question as to her final admission escaped slaves and freedmen. Island College, of African descent to graduate or rejection to be determined by Although there is a slight possi- who during her her success as a student.” bility that someone else graduated from college. In her 37-year career lifetime dem- at the Institute, Fanny Jackson- Could these peculiar circum- before or with her, it is my conclu- stances have been addressed in sion that Rhode Island College’s onstrated out- ROSE BUTLER Coppin trained many future lead- BROWNE ers and introduced a normal school the required letter of recommenda- first graduate of color was Mary standing lead- program. Somewhat earlier than tion? Did she have the support of E. Watson, a member of the 1854 ership in pro- Booker T. Washington at Tuskeegee an influential person, perhaps an entering class of the Rhode Island fessional and community affairs. employer? Was she from one of the Normal School. Institute, she also became a strong The $250 Award is funded by advocate for vocational training as prominent Newport families and This investigation introduced me well as academic preparation. therefore someone to be reckoned to some truly phenomenal women. an endowment within the Rhode T he Rhode Island General with? A later entry commented, I was awed by the caliber of these Island College Foundation. Assembly had established the “Miss Watson, who was condition- early graduates and proud that so ally admitted to the school, made early on, this institution had opened Normal School in 1854. Could there Criteria for Nominations have been another student of color such manifest improvement as to its doors to all. who had enrolled before Jackson’s The recipient must be a graduat- arrival in 1860? According to its ing senior enrolled at Rhode Island Records, 1854-1863, the Rhode College and who has a grade point Island Normal School opened its Male counterparts average of 2.5 or better. Nominees doors on Monday, May 29, 1854. The first three days were devoted are expected to have completed at to the examination of candidates Female students greatly out- ignation to each person in the least 100 hours of voluntary or paid by the instructors. These written numbered males during the photograph. With a magnifying service to a disadvantaged popula- early years of Rhode Island glass I searched for his face in and oral exercises were intended tion during the preceding year in a to “test the intellectual ability of Normal School. (They still do other group shots. Returning to the candidates, their general fitness today). The first entering class, the beginning of the scrapbook community agency or activity; for for the Normal School course, and consisted of 23 females and four I carefully studied each page example, the Urban League, a reha- their knowledge of the Common males. However, I recalled read- for clues to his identity. Finally, bilitation center, or a community School studies, viz: - Reading, ing a list of first year graduates on the last page, I came upon recreation center. Spelling, Grammar, Geography, that ended with the phrase “and the portrait of a man of color, as They are expected to have dem- Mental Arithmetic and Written one colored man.” carefully suited and unsmiling as Arithmetic.” onstrated their leadership poten- Among the treasures in the the other, but this time he did not In the written portion, 10 ques- wear a tie. tial through effective, current per- tions were asked on each subject archives is formance in a leadership role and an oversized The date except reading, and five points through recognition of leadership were given for each correct answer. bound scrap- appeared The oral exam tested their skills “in book, entitled to be 1893, skills by their peers or supervisors. recitation and explanation and their Rhode Island and the label Most importantly, recipients are quickness of perception, as well as Normal School: underneath expected to have a commitment to their acquaintance with the various 1854-1893. read “William developing their leadership poten- school studies.” Created as Gross, Janitor.” tial. In general, those who ranked low Perhaps this on the written part performed well part of Rhode The award will be presented at Island’s exhi- man was also during the oral portion and “gave a student, as the Cap and Gown Convocation on such satisfactory evidence of profi- b ition at the my research Wednesday, April 28, 2004. ciency and intellectual ability” that Columbia they were admitted without hesi- World’s Fair in assistant sug- As part of the selection process, tation. In total, 23 applicants were Chicago, this gested, but his applicants are required to have a name did not accepted for the first term. The artifact chroni- letter of reference from their imme- appear on any examining committee concluded, cles the history diate supervisor in order to be con- however, that the two remaining of the lists. of the Normal sidered. They also are expected to applicants, “both colored persons,” School through Despite our complete a personal statement. were “manifestly in need of further original docu- WILLIAM GROSS determined preparation.” Acting on the advice ments, beautifully handwritten efforts, however, we learned of these instructors, Mary L. Offee explanatory pages, and pristine nothing more about Gross, Further Information and Clementine Tweedy withdrew their applications. photographs of classrooms and except that the Board of Trustees Contact the Career Development In the written exam, Tweedy portraits of instructors, students, voted on June 30, 1893 to raise Center, Rhode Island College, principals, and members of the his monthly salary to $70.00. We, scored half as much as the highest (401) 456-8031. Sharon Mazyck, Board of Trustees and the Board in fact, uncovered no evidence of test taker and 21 points higher than Chairperson, Dr. Rose Butler the lowest; Offee scored nine points of Instruction. the existence of any male gradu- Browne Award. below the lowest. Knowing nothing One uncaptioned photograph, ates of color during the first 100 about the educational backgrounds depicting nine soberly clad and years of the College. of Offee and Tweedy makes it formally posed men and women, The phrase “and one col- "LACK(ISTORY-ONTH impossible to judge the accuracy or caught my attention because ored man” that had stuck in my fairness of their evaluation. standing in the middle of the sec- memory did reappear – as a red  We can only speculate on whether or not these written and oral tests ond row was one man of darker herring – following the names of were fair in nature or objective in facial appearance. 47 women and 6 men who had #ELEBRATETHE3PIRIT delivery, and whether their results Was he the “one colored man?” attended the first term of the were indicative of intelligence or With the exception of this mys- Normal School of Rhode Island, OF!FRICAN(ERITAGE the ability to achieve success as a tery man, I was able to use the a private institution in Providence teacher. nearby text and labeled portraits that existed from 1852 to1854. Details in the records reveal that to attach a name and status des- — Marlene Lopes students entered the Normal School AT2HODE)SLAND at different levels of maturity, some at the minimum age of 15 and oth- #OLLEGE Page 12– Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 Sports From the Athletic Director's Desk Memories of Mike Creedon, RIC grad and lifetime Hall of Famer

The Rhode Island fought his illness, keeping active degree in educa- technology education in Cranston. College Athletic until the very end. tion. He earned Last week, while on a trip to Department has Mike was a captain his senior a m a s t e r s Florida to meet alumni, I visited the lost a Hall of Famer year and led RIC to a New England degree in edu- winter home of Tom ’73 M.Ed. and and the State of Championship. The Anchormen, cation from RIC Maryann Dolan ’70, M.Ed. ’73. After Rhode Island has under Mike’s leadership, averaged in 1973. Mike exchanging greetings, Maryann’s lost one of its fin- 100.4 points per game that season, had been a tech- first words were how bad she and est citizens. Mike a record that still stands today. As nology teacher Tom felt about the passing of Mike Creedon ’70, M.Ed a junior in 1968-69, he helped lead since 1970, and Creedon. “In my life he was just ’73 passed away the Anchormen to a 24-2 record, was the city- one of the nicest people I have ever Donald E. Tencher last month after while they established Rhode Island MIKE CREEDON wide supervisor met,” she said Director, losing an extended College records for wins and win- for technology I think Maryann summarizes Intercollegiate battle with cancer. ning percentage (.962) in a single e d u c a t i o n i n how everyone felt about Mike, with Athletics, Mike was a four- season. Cranston since 1998. his never-ending smile and always- Intramurals y e a r s t a r t e r f o r Following his days at RIC, Mike Mike Creedon was an outstand- upbeat attitude, he was one of the and Recreation the men’s basket- went on to coach girls’ basketball ing alum and truly loved Rhode nicest people any of us will ever ball team at Rhode in Cranston schools for 16 years, all Island College. I know in my ten- meet. Island College from without a losing record. He coached ure at RIC that I haven’t met any- Officially Mike didn’t become a 1966 through 1970. He scored the Western Hills Junior High team one who deeply appreciated being member of the Hall of Fame until 1,468 points for the Anchormen, a to the State Championship in 1993 a Hall of Famer more than Mike did. 2002, but anyone whose life came total that ranks him eighth on the and 1995. He coached Cranston He was extremely supportive of the in contact with Mike Creedon all-time scoring list. High School West to the Division I athletic program and our initia- knows that he lived his life as a He played in 100 consecutive Central League Championship and tives. In addition to being honored Hall of Famer. games, not missing a game over the was named the 1997-98 Central for his athletic achievements, Mike The Athletic Department wants course of his entire career. A mod- Division Coach-of-the-Year. was honored last year by the RIC to extend its deepest sympathy to ern-day “iron man,” Mike displayed Mike graduated from Rhode Island Alumni Association for his signifi- Mike’s wife Barbara and children that same dedication to life as he College in 1970, earning a bachelors cant successes and contributions to Kevin and Colleen.

Deveau pins hopes on dedication, hard work Sports Events

February 16 - March 8 By Michael Christie, Men’s Basketball Athletic Media Relations Intern Tues. Feb. 17, at Western Connecticut St. Univ.*, 7:30 p.m.

he sport of wrestling isn’t for Sat. Feb. 21, at Keene State College *, 3 p.m. the weak-of-heart. Black eyes, Tbruised knees and broken Tues. Feb. 24, LEC Tourn. Playoffs, TBA arms are not uncommon in a match. Justin Deveau is one of those people Fri. Feb. 27, LEC Tourn. Semi-Finals, TBA who takes the risks and competes in one of the most grueling sports here Sat. Feb. 28, LEC Tournament Finals, TBA at Rhode Island College. * Little East Conference game Deveau, a junior from North Women’s Basketball Attleboro, Mass. is currently the number one ranked wrestler in New Tues. Feb. 17, at Western Connecticut St. Univ. *, 5:30 p.m. England at 285 lbs. He has a 30- 2 record with 129 points, 43 take- IN CONTROL: Wrestler Justin Deveau gets the advantage on yet another opponent Sat. Feb. 21, at Keene State College *, downs, eight reversals, 12 near falls on his way to yet another super season. 1 p.m. and five pins. Deveau placed first at the Roger Williams and Citrus England Conference at the National with an 8-4 NECCWA mark and a 3- Tues. Feb. 24, LEC Tournament Playoffs,TBA Invitationals, and currently has a Championships as a sophomore last 0 Pilgrim League record. In upcom- 19-match win streak, dating back to season but our qualifying format ing action, RIC will look to finish the Fri. Feb. 27, LEC Tourn. Semi-Finals, TBA December 6. and the lack of votes kept him from remainder of the season strong and As a freshman at North Attleboro that goal.” head into the NECCWA tournament Sat. Feb. 28, LEC Tournament Finals, TBA High School, Deveau joined the While Deveau is well on his way to with positive momentum. * Little East Conference game school’s wrestling team, which another accomplished and honored If the Anchormen follow the lead- was the first competitive wrestling season, he is doing so in a brand ership, both on the mat and off, of Wrestling for him. The 2001 graduate was new role. As a heavyweight, which Justin Deveau, they should be in Sat. Feb. 21, at NECCWA Champ.^, the Massachusetts State Section is classified as 285 lbs., Deveau usu- position for a successful finish to 10 a.m. Champion for his region, placed ally weighs in at about 225 lbs. their winter season. at the state championships three Sun. Feb. 22, at NECCWA Champ.^, Due to the fact that RIC is lacking 10 a.m. times, and also placed fourth in New an experienced heavyweight wres- Winter weather doesn’t England. tler, Deveau at times must grapple ^ Hosted by WPI Nearing the conclusion of his deter RIC’s spring teams with opponents who at times have Women’s Gymnastics third season at Rhode Island had upwards of a 50-lb. advantage. College, Deveau already has been Although it's still cold, the Rhode Island Sat. Feb. 21, at Harriet Marranca Inv., The RIC heavyweight understands 1 p.m. very successful as he has two All- this and said that it is not always College spring sports teams are preparing for New England honors under his belt. power that gets the job done. “I their seasons. Fri. March 5, Springfield ^ & Brown, 7 p.m. “I think I am doing well so far but think it comes down to dedication Both the baseball and softball teams spent I have yet to accomplish all of my and hard work.” Deveau said, “It’s the winter fund-raising to support their annual Sun. March 14, at Brown w/MIT^ goals,” Deveau said. The heavy- not necessarily the person with the trips during spring break. The softball team & Bridgeport, 1 p.m. weight said that qualifying for the most talent or brute strength who goes to California to compete in the Sun West Tournament for the second consecutive season, Sun. March 21, at ECAC Championships %, National Championships would be is successful but it’s the person who 1 p.m. a good start to completing some of works the hardest that usually gets with its first game March 7. those goals. The baseball team heads to Florida to play at ^ ECAC Div. III opponent the win.” Coach Jones agrees with % Hosted by MIT “Ultimately, I would like to win Deveau’s comments on hard work the Clearwater Invitational March 6. a New England Championship and and said it has produced positive The men’s tennis team has been practicing at Men’s and Women’s a National Title,” Deveau said. RIC results for him this season. the Rec Center as they prepare for the season Indoor Track and Field Head Wrestling Coach Jay Jones “Justin works harder than anyone opener against Clark March 27. Fri-Sat Feb. 20-21, at N. E. Div. III echoes Deveau’s sentiments on his in practice,” said Jones. “He proved The women’s lacrosse team has also been Championships %, 10 a.m. goals of becoming a national cham- that he deserves a shot at National’s working out at the Rec Center readying for its pion. “Justin has been a potential opener at Salve Regina March 16. Fri-Sat Feb. 27-28, at Open N.E. when he upset Mike Blair of Trinity Championships & 5 p.m. All-American since his arrival at College who was ranked second in Most of RIC’s men’s and women’s outdoor Rhode Island College,” said Jones, the nation at the time.” track and field team has been competing during Fri-Sat March 5-6, at ECAC Div. III “He has worked diligently and could As a team, the Anchormen cur- the indoor campaign which lasts until March 6. Championship %, 6 p.m. The outdoor season begins March 27. easily have represented the New rently have a 13-7 overall record % Hosted by Bowdoin Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 – Page 13 Arts & Entertainment – Performing Arts Series – .BSJPOFUUFT
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Classical performer brings JO
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QSPEVDUJPO ‘Romance of the Violin’ to RIC

“Shakespeare on a String” is com- Austria and countless international ing to Rhode Island College March tours. 17 at a special curtain time of 7:30 Through the years, its masterful p.m. The internationally renowned puppeteers – and their lifelike pup- Salzburg Marionettes perform A pets – have entranced audiences Midsummer Night’s Dream in the with presentations of fairy tale bal- Auditorium in Roberts Hall. lets and operas. The words of Shakespeare and The sophisticated marionette music of Mendelssohn combine to productions created by Salzburg create an enchanting performance provide the perfect introduction filled with fantasy, charm and excit- to classical works for children and ing visuals – sure to be a delight for adults alike. the entire family. This year’s Salzburg Marionette The Salzburg Marionette Theater Theatre tour will also include per- was founded in 1913, and has since formances of Peter and the Wolf, become world famous through its The Magic Flute and The Barber of annual performances in Salzburg, Seville.

JOSHUA BELL

Academy Award-winning violin- Violin, was released in October 2003. ist Joshua Bell was an unusual ado- Claude Debussy’s The Girl With the lescent – at 14 he made his profes- Flaxon Hair, Frederick Chopin’s sional debut with the Philadelphia Nocturne, and Giacomo Puccini’s O Orchestra, and soon after that, he mio babbino caro are three of the performed at Carnegie Hall. Now in mood-setting pieces that help make his 30s, Bell is a grown-up classical Romance of the Violin, in the words superstar, amassing over 20 years of one reviewer, “a regal stroll of highly successful recording, tour- through a shimmering gallery of SALZBURG MARIONETTES ing, collaborating and composing. precious, if nearly lost, meanings of Local fans will have the chance to the phrase.” sample Bell’s unique artistry when A native of Bloomington, Indiana, he and his accompanist Simon Bell currently lives in New York City, Keyboard Conversations® Mulligan appear Wednesday, March where he enjoys playing tennis and 24 in a Performing Arts Series practicing on his violin of choice, concert made possible by a dona- a 1713 “Gibson ex Huberman” key in on Mozart tion from College President John Stradivarius. Last year, he received Nazarian. the Indiana Governor’s Art Award. Jeffrey Siegel makes his third Antonio Salieri. Bell, who was born in 1967, has Though still youthful in appear- and final appearance this aca- Billed as “concerts with won numerous Grammys and his ance (he says he’s often asked to demic year Wednesday, March c ommentary,” Keyboard work on the film The Red Violin show ID when ordering a cocktail), 3 in “There’s More to Mozart Conversations are “for anyone (1998) earned him an Academy the former child phenom has con- than Amadeus!” who loves music Award for best soundtrack. He has tinued to mature musically. Said a K e y b o a r d – or wants to love played with many of the world’s Newsweek: “Bell has evolved from Conversations it even more.” leading orchestras and has recorded a technical whiz to a true artist and concert pre- In each concert, 27 albums. intellectual whose music feeds both sented as part of Siegel attempts His latest CD, Romance of the your brain and your heart.” RIC’s Performing to deepen the Arts Series. a u d i e n c e ’ s The program understanding Chamber Music Series – f e a t u r e s t h e and enjoyment romantic side of a composi- Two concerts warm up winter o f M o z a r t a s tion by speak- s e e n t h r o u g h ing informally V a r i a t i o n s o n about it before segment of Chamber Series Twinkle, Twinkle, performing the On February 25, Joseph Foley Little Star, A work in full. He Latin-flavored session that offers and the Narragansett Brass pro- Minor Rondo, C concludes the a unique take on established jazz vide an afternoon of high-energy M s h o w w i t h a traditions. i n o r S o n a t a musicianship. and G M a j o r lively question- This exciting ensemble has Sonata, a combi- and-answer ses- Foley, assistant professor of become one of the premier jazz nation of songs sion. music at RIC, is also principal bands in the world thanks to blis- that are in turn T h e t o n e trumpet of the Rhode Island tering performances at festivals, delightful, intro- o f t h e s h o w Philharmonic and a frequent per- music halls, and concert series. spective, power- – entertaining former with the Boston Symphony R ecently, the Afro-Rican ful and elegant. JEFFREY SIEGEL and enthusias- Orchestra and the Boston Pops. Ensemble has enjoyed success in Also included tic – is designed The international award-winning the Caribbean, playing the Jamaica is the Providence premiere of to attract newcomers to classical septet, The Afro-Rican Ensemble, Ocho Rios Jazz Festival and the unpublished piano pieces by music and avid fans alike. takes the stage March 17, for a Dominican Republic Jazz Festival. Page 14– Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004

RIC Dance Company — 45 and still dancing— Spring Concert Series showcases six new works

h u m o r o u s National Endowment for the Arts. By Dante Del Giudice, view of the Founded in the fall of 1958 by RIC Dance Director individual’s Billie Ann Burrill, associate profes- dilemma in sor emerita, with an inaugural per- negotiating formance in spring 1959, the RIC he Annual Spring Concert the weight Dance Company grew under the Series retains its status as the and import leadership of Burrill and Fannie Tmost ambitious program of of society’s Helen Melcer, the late professor the season with all new repertory i n f l a t e d emerita, to become a collegiate acquired through residencies with injunctions force for dance advocacy and per- local, regional, and national chore- to succeed, formance nearly unparalled in its ographers. perform, and time. Guest and resident choreogra- conform. This tradition continues today phers featured in the 45th Annual Appearing with further enhancements to Spring Concert Series on March 4-7 again after academic and performance pro- will include Alexandra Beller (New p r e m i e r e s gramming that make dance at RIC York), Michael Bolger (Newport), last fall will a vibrant and renowned program Liam Clancy ‘95 (Los Angeles), Seán b e D a n i e l on campus and within the Rhode Curran (New York), Daniel McCusker McCusker’s Island community. (Boston) and RIC faculty member e l e g a n t Melody Ruffin Ward. Performed by Companion Performances will be at 8 p.m. RIC dancers in the Auditorium in Piece to J.S. Thursday through Saturday, March Roberts Hall, this program of all Bach’s Cello 4-6 and at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 7. new 2003/04 repertory promises an C o n c e r t o General admission is $10 with dis- evening full of diverse and engaging #1, Michael counts for seniors and students. dance works. Bolger’s rau- I n celebration of RIC’s Spring premiers will include a trio c o u s a n d Sesquicentennial and dance’s 45th by Melody Ruffin Ward and works p o i g n a n t anniversary, student and commu- by Alexandra Beller and Liam Clancy Still Restless nity groups of eight or more will be acquired during “winter break” with tradi- provided with complimentary tickets guest residencies in January. Beller’s RIC DANCE COMPANY tional folk as available. “or are you just glad to see me?” is a n d I r i s h a hard-hitting look at the offensive uitous, persistent, ingrained and music, and Seán Curran’s Where Tickets for the Spring Concert verbal mistreatment women suffer tolerated misogyny, Beller suggests I End and We Begin restaged last Series are available at the Nazarian on the streets in urban centers like that one must acknowledge and fall with funding provided by Center Box Office. For information New York. Exposing a polemic sug- reject this status quo. Clancy’s The Dance/USA’s National College please call Dante Del Giudice at 401- gesting female complicity in a ubiq- Merry Chase takes a metaphoric and Choreography Initiative and the 456-9791.

9th Annual Chester Performance Award Concert Wind Ensemble sets features international pianist, RI premiere Dr. Seuss to music The RIC Wind Ensemble contin- Biddulph, GM and JRI labels com- of the romantic concerto, recreating ues its celebration of the College’s by Edward Markward prise works by over 30 composers both the competitive and the expres- Sesquicentennial year with “Green Professor of Music and RIC and reflect his affinity for a wide vari- sive qualities for our time. It opens Eggs and Ham,” a February 20 concert Symphony Orchestra Conductor ety of styles. His enthusiasm, exact- with an explosive cadenza (shades of of contemporary music based on mas- ing artistry and adventurous pro- Beethoven’s Emperor, or the concer- terworks of the past. The program, led The Rhode Island College gramming have made him a favorite tos of Schumann or Grieg), projecting by conductor Rob Franzblau, will fea- Symphony Orchestra will appear in among audiences of all ages. He the personality of the soloist from the ture soprano performers Diana McVey the 9th Annual Samuel and Esther is well known for his residencies of very beginning as one who can, when and Liana Stillman. Chester Performance Award Concert one day to three weeks that combine required, beat back the orchestral The main event is Robert Kapilow’s March 22. The major performances, master classes, attack and then – when the danger is “mini-opera” setting of Dr. Seuss’ clas- program will workshops, school performances, over – turn calm and expressive. sic Green Eggs and Ham. On one level, will feature and other activities to promote classi- The middle movement begins with this children’s story is a delightful internationally cal music within communities. the soloist unfolding a delicately tale of Sam-I-Am, who persistently acclaimed pia- Moyer’s recording with the London flowing line with a spare texture in promotes his green cuisine with silly nist Frederick Symphony Orchestra of David Ott’s the accompaniment. It is hesitating, rhymes. On another level, it is a par- able about a child teaching an adult to Moyer as Piano Concerto No. 2 can be heard emotionally brooding. Throughout overcome prejudice. Kapilow’s setting soloist in the on the Jupiter label. Moyer last per- the movement is both playful and sophisticated, with Rhode Island formed with the RIC Symphony the piano and musical styles ranging from baroque to premiere Orchestra in March 2001. orchestra pres- blues. of David Ott, who was born in 1947 in e nt distinct EDWARD MARKWARD Crystal Falls, Michigan, has served musical char- The concert will also include Ron Ott’s Piano Nelson’s Medieval Suite, a contempo- Concerto No. as composer-in-residence with the a cters – the Indianapolis Symphony and DePauw piano gentler, rary homage to Leonin, Perotin, and 2. The concert is offered free to the Machaut. Rounding out the concert is University. Among America’s most the orchestra public because of the generosity of Charles Ives’s Old Home Days, a tribute sought-after composers, Ott has cre- more wild and Samuel and Esther Chester. Each to familiar melodies and homegrown ated a recognizable style based on a restless. season, the grant pays the soloist’s music making. fee as well as partial cost of the traditional palette admired by audi- The finale orchestra. ences and critics alike. rushes along Spring Choral Moyer, in his over 20 years as a full- His works have been per- FREDERICK MOYER with humorous time concert pianist, has established formed by major orchestras across bounce. It is Concerts set for a vital and unique musical career that America including those of Chicago, lively and jest- has taken him to 41 countries and Milwaukee, Washington, DC, Atlanta, ing, filled with sudden surprises and March 19, April 30 to such far-flung venues as Suntory Dallas, Indianapolis, Kansas City and mood reversals to bring the concerto Hall in Tokyo, Sydney Opera House, Grand Rapids. to its end in high good humor, with The RIC Chorus, Chamber Singers Windsor Castle, the Ambassador Ott holds degrees from the tremendous youthful energy. and Women’s Chorus, directed by Teresa Auditorium in Pasadena, Tanglewood, University of Wisconsin/Platteville, The program opens with Coffman, will celebrate the College’s and the Kennedy Center. Indiana University and a doctorate Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture. Sesquicentennial anniversary with two He has appeared as piano solo- from the University of Kentucky. He is In 1829, after visiting the Hebrides, Spring Choral Concerts this season. On ist with world renowned orchestras committed to education and has cre- Mendelssohn, then 20 years old, March 19, the works of American com- including the Cleveland, Philadelphia ated a successful children’s program noted the main theme of the overture posers will be highlighted, including and Minnesota Orchestras, the that has been heard by thousands of which was finished three years later. Carlisle Floyd’s The Martyr, scored for St. Louis, Dallas, Indianapolis, middle school children. It depicts the cold, sea swept ter- chorus, piano, trumpets, percussion and Milwaukee, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Piano Concerto No. 2 was a rain of those islands and the stormy projected images. Houston, Boston, Singapore, joint commission by Moyer and the seas off the coast of Scotland. April 30 is the date for the premiere Netherlands Radio, Latvian, Iceland, Berkshire Symphony Orchestra in Rounding out the program is Cesar of Celebration!, a work commissioned by and London Symphony Orchestras celebration of the orchestra’s 50th Franck’s magnificent Symphony in D the RIC choral area and composed by and the major orchestras of Australia, season. minor, the only work in the symphonic Michael Remson. The text for the first among others. The work, which premiered in 1995, genre by the great French romantic movement is taken from Roger Williams’ Moyer’s 20 recordings on the suggests a tour through the world composer. 1638 compact for a new Rhode Island plantation. Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004 – Page 15 Bannister Gallery –“Sculpture” by Janice Redman , Ê>Õ“Ê}iÌÃÊLˆˆ˜}Ê Utility items become objects ˆ˜ÊܜÀ`Ê«Ài“ˆiÀiÊ«>Þ of sculptor’s imagination

Janice Redman’s “Sculpture” is on The exhibition was curated by Actress Jennifer Mudge ’94, very theatrical, and very touching,” display at Bannister Gallery from Doug Bosch, assistant professor MFA ’98, has a role in the pro- Mudge said of the production. “It February 27 to March 19, mark- of art. ing the Rhode Island debut of this An artist’s lecture will take place duction The a l s o h a s Cape Cod-based artist who rescues February 26 at 6 p.m. in the Helen S t e n d h a l important once-functional objects, materials Forman Theatre in the Nazarian Syndrome, t h i n g s t o and images and coalesces them Center for the Performing Arts. which has its say about with wax, plaster and felt to create Opening reception follows. world pre- a r t : h o w sculptures. Gallery hours during exhibits miere open- i t a f f e c t s Redman wields a sympathetic are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday ing in New us, how it hand in forming her creations, and Friday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., and York City’s immortal- infusing them with an animation Thursdays, noon - 9 p.m. Closed new 59E59 izes us, how that memorializes their domestic weekends and holidays. Exhibits T h e a t r e s we inter- roots and amplifies psychological and events are free and all are February 16. n a l i z e i t resonances. welcome to attend. Accessible to It is sched- – very topi- Some of her works are devices persons with disabilities. For infor- uled to run cal things, that are embalmed, restrained or mation on event dates and exhibit until March especially swaddled, then surrendered to a opening receptions, check the web 27. in today’s state of slumber; others are handled site at www.ric.edu/Bannister or The play social and with the precision of a surgeon, with call 401-456-9765. was written political cli- elements meticulously extracted by Terrence mate.” and displayed for the viewer in the Gallery programming presented McNally and M u d g e tradition of 19th-century biological through the cooperation of the follow- d i r e c t e d r e c e i v e d specimens. ing agencies: by Leonard h e r B A i n Originally from England, Redman The Dept. of Art Gallery Committee, F o g l i a . JENNIFER MUDGE t h e a t e r has had her work exhibited exten- the RIC Art Club, the Artist Co-Op, the Along with f r o m R I C sively throughout New England since Performing and Fine Arts Commission, Mudge, it includes cast mem- and her MFA through the RIC/ she arrived in the United States in the Committee for Lectures and Films, bers Isabella Rossellini, Richard Trinity Repertory Conservatory 1991. She received an MFA in sculp- the Dean of Arts and Sciences, the E.M. Thomas, Michael Countryman program. During her undergradu- ture in 1988 from the University of Bannister Society, and the RI College and Yul Vázquez. The theatre ate career, she appeared in RIC Ulster, Northern Ireland. Foundation. company in the performance is theatre presentations of Ghosts, Primary Stages, resident company Amadeus, The Merry Wives of of 59E59’s largest theatre. Windsor, Carousel, and Sweeny “To be a part of a new play by Todd. She was selected as an Irene such an incredible playwright is Ryan Acting Competition candi- something every acting student date for the American College dreams of,” said Mudge. “And I’m Theatre Festival in 1993, 1994 in very good company.” (placing as the first alternate to The Stendhal Syndrome is the the national finals), and 1995. collective title of two comedic Mudge was a resident member of plays about art and humankind. the Trinity Repertory acting com- In Full Frontal Nudity, three dispa- pany until 2000, when she moved rate American tourists in Florence to New York City. Since then, and their guide are immersed she has worked at the Alabama in the beauty of Michelangelo’s Shakespeare Festival, Arena Stage, David. In Prelude & Liebestod, Contemporary American Theater a renowned conductor watches Festival, Manhattan Theatre Club, his life unravel while conducting the Director’s Company, and has Wagner’s musical masterpiece. appeared on the television shows “It’s a different kind of piece – Law and Order and Hack. JANICE REDMAN, MY GOOSE, 1994, WHEELBARROW, COTTON, WAX - 4 FT. X 30 IN.

Arts & Entertainment Calendar of Events Feb. 18- March 31

1:00 p.m. Sapinsley Hall March 17 March 27 February 18 – 22 in the Nazarian Center Music: The Afro-Rican Ensemble* Music: RIC Opera Workshop* Theatre: The Birthday Party Discussion following Chamber Music Series Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance By Harold Pinter 1:00 p.m. Sapinsley Hall Thomas Lawlor, director RIC Theatre February 27 – March 19 in the Nazarian Center 8:00 p.m. Sapinsley Hall Directed by P. William Hutchinson Art: Sculpture* Master Class following in the Nazarian Center 8:00 p.m. February 18 – 21 Janice Redman 2:00 p.m. February 21 - 22 February 26 Artist’s Lecture 6:00 p.m. March 17 March 29 Helen Forman Theatre in the Forman Theatre in the Nazarian Center Theatre: Salzburg Marionettes Music: Beethoven String Quartets Nazarian Center Opening reception follows A Midsummer Night’s Dream Muir String Quartet General Admission $14 Bannister Gallery in Roberts Hall Performing Arts Series President’s Music Series Special curtain time: 7:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Sapinsley Hall February 19 February 28 Auditorium in Roberts Hall Reserved Seating $25 Dance: Rome & Jewels Theatre: Fiesta del Chiro Reserved Seating $26 Rennie Harris’ PureMovement Educational Center for the Arts & Sciences March 31 Performing Arts Series 7:00 p.m. Auditorium in Roberts Hall March 19 Music: Mark Wood, electric violinist* 8:00 p.m. Auditorium in Roberts Hall Reserved Seating $25 Music: Spring Choral Concert Chamber Music Series Reserved Seating $26 RIC Chorus/Chamber Singers/Women’s Chorus 1:00 p.m. Sapinsley Hall February 29 Teresa Coffman, conductor in the Nazarian Center February 20 Music: RIC Chamber Orchestra* 8:00 p.m. Sapinsley Hall Master Class following Music: Green Eggs and Ham with Chamber Ensembles in the Nazarian Center RIC Wind Ensemble John Sumerlin, conductor General Admission $7 Rob Franzblau, conductor 7:30 p.m. Sapinsley Hall *Admission Free Diana McVey, soprano in the Nazarian Center March 22 Liana Stillman, speaker Music: 9th Annual Samuel and Esther Chester Price discounts for students and senior 8:00 p.m. Sapinsley Hall March 3, Performance Award Concert* citizens are available for many shows. in the Nazarian Center Music: Keyboard Conversations® RIC Symphony Orchestra General Admission $7 Jeffrey Siegel, piano Ed Markward, conductor There’s More to Mozart Than Amadeus! Frederick Moyer, piano Box office: 401-456-8144 February 23 Performing Arts Series 8:00 p.m. Sapinsley Hall General information: 401-456-8194. Music: Praise Ensemble Gospel Choir 8:00 p.m. Sapinsley Hall in the Nazarian Center in the Nazarian Center 7:00 p.m. Sapinsley Hall in the Reserved Seating $25 Nazarian Center March 24 General Admission $3 March 4 -7 Music: Joshua Bell, violin Dance: 45th Annual Spring Concert Series Accompanied by Simon Mulligan, piano February 25 RIC Dance Company Performing Arts Series Music: Joseph Foley and the 8:00 p.m. March 4 – 6; 2:00 p.m. March 7 8:00 p.m. Auditorium in Roberts Hall Narragansett Brass* Call 401-621-6123 or log onto Auditorium in Roberts Hall Reserved Seating $29 www.arttixri.com Chamber Music Series General Admission $10 Page 16– Whatʼs News, Monday, Feb. 16, 2004

The Back Page What's News at Rhode Island College The Campaign for Rhode Island College Editor: Jane E. Fusco Managing Editor: Rob Martin e are pleased to Information Aide: Pauline McCartney announce that W Photographer: Gordon E. Rowley alumni and friends of the College have made gifts or Design Manager: Cynthia L. Page pledges in the amount of Graphic Designer: Paul Silva ’03 $21.3 million toward our Public Relations Assistant: goal of $25 million. David Cranshaw ’05

We need YOUR help to What's News at Rhode Island reach our goal by the end College (USPS 681-650) is published $21.3M — by: of June. Rhode Island College Office of News and Public Relations You CAN make a differ-

The next issue of What’s News will be March 22, 2004.

Deadline for submission of copy, photos, etc. is Friday, March 12 at noon.

Story ideas are welcome.Ê Call 401-456-8090 Above: Tara Gurka ’04 flies down the hill in front of the admissions office after the Rhode Island First Lady Suzanne Carcieri most recent snowstorm. Below: Publishing services staff member Charlie Allsworth (above) and Arnold Mitchem, presi- or email [email protected]. (r) gets bombarded with snow by some fun-loving students. dent of the Council for Opportunity in Education (below) address the confer- ence “Low-Income Adults and Higher Education: A New Partnership,” held January 29 in the Student Union What's News Ballroom. Mitchem was the featured speaker at the event and Carcieri facili- submissions welcome tated discussion by a panel that included state government and community lead- The Office of News and Public ers. Relations encourages members of the faculty, staff and admin- istration to submit news stories, feature articles and department information for publication con- sideration in What’s News.

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