Choral Union to Present Handel's Messiah

Published: 2012-11-08
Choral Union performs with the Quincy Bay Chamber Orchestra at Wollaston Church of the Nazarene

A popular annual holiday tradition returns, as the Eastern Nazarene College Choral Union presents two free performances of Handel’s Messiah.

Comprised of ENC students and members of the community, the 60-voice Choral Union will present the beloved oratorio Saturday Dec. 1 at 7:00 pm and Sunday Dec. 2 at 3:00 pm at the Wollaston Church of the Nazarene. The choral group, consisting of students and community members, will be conducted by John Schnelle, accompanied by the Quincy Bay Chamber Orchestra. The performance will feature solos by professional singers baritone Ryan Mullaney and tenor Arthur Rishi, alto and ENC alum, Hannah Ford (10), and student sopranos Paige Fehr (14) and Elizabeth Blanchette (15).

For more than 75 years, the Eastern Nazarene College Choral Union has performed two major masterworks of choral literature each concert season. Each fall, the Choral Union presents free performances of Handel’s Messiah as a holiday gift to the city of Quincy. In the spring, the group performs a different piece each year, with previous concerts featuring works by Brahms, Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Faure and more.

Related at ENC: Music Department

View the original article here

Read More

Moot Court team streak continues

Two teams will represent Fitchburg State University at the American Collegiate Moot Court Association’s annual tournament in January as a result of their performance at the qualifying tournament held on campus last Friday and Saturday.

The Fitchburg State teams – Matthew Costello and Haley Schilling, and Angela Szymcik and Robert Sivazlian – will represent Fitchburg State at Regent University Law School in Virginia Beach. 

The regional tournament, which brought 48 teams from 15 colleges and universities to Fitchburg State, was won by Michelle Freeman and Jacob Gomez of the California State University at Fullerton, who defeated Gianni Crameri and William Manning of Bentley University in the final round on Saturday.

The tournament in January will mark Costello’s fourth national event. It is rare for freshmen to compete in the tournament but Costello, also president of the Student Government Association, has competed in all four years at Fitchburg State and earned national distinction in each of them. Szymcik will be making her second trip to the national tournament. Schilling – daughter of Fitchburg State faculty members –and Sivazlian will be making their first appearance there in January.

Fitchburg State’s Moot Court team has a history of strong showings at the regional event, advancing to the national moot court competition 12 consecutive times. The university has consistently advanced to the second day of national competition since 2000 and remains the only school in the nation to make the break in every national tournament.

Back to News

View the original article here

Read More

Distinguished Speaker Series continues March 13, 2013

The self-described “reading arsonist” Dr. Steven L. Layne will address educators on the topic of igniting a passion for reading when he takes the microphone at Fitchburg State University’s Distinguished Speaker Series on March 13, 2013.

The Distinguished Speaker Series is now in its seventh year, and hundreds of area educators attend each year for an inspiring and informative professional development opportunity. This year’s event will take place from 8:30 to 2 p.m., March 13, 2013 at the Holmes Dining Commons on the Fitchburg State campus.

With his trademark combination of humor and heart, Layne, pictured, tackles one of the most significant issues in reading instruction today:  how to engage reluctant readers. Teaching the skill of reading is viewed by many educators as a major objective; teaching the will of reading is too often an afterthought. Layne’s charismatic blend of anecdotes and practical suggestions for the classroom are sure to fan the flame of literacy into a raging inferno inspiring teachers as well as their students to keep the bedside lamp on just a little bit later into the night.

Educators will leave the workshop with

Increased knowledge of literacyPractical strategies to engage reluctant readersEfficient real-world suggestions to dramatically impact school culture

Layne serves as full-time professor of literacy education at Judson University in Elgin, Ill. His vast array of experience working at multiple grade levels in the public schools allows him a unique camaraderie with teachers and librarians and his award-winning books for children and young adults add another appealing element to his dynamic presentations. Layne is a frequent keynote speaker at large conferences and gatherings of educators and librarians throughout the world. In addition, Layne continues to do school appearances each year as a guest author and provides in-service for schools throughout the nation.

“Steven Layne is one of the most dynamic keynote speakers I have had the pleasure to listen to,” said Fitchburg State University Dean of Education Dr. Pamela Hill. “His warmth, humor, and love of teaching resonate. He made us laugh and made us cry—but most of all, he inspired us.”

The Distinguished Speaker Series is designed for superintendents, assistant superintendents, principals, curriculum directors, special education directors, teachers, graduate students, higher education faculty, and other interested school administrators and educators. Books by Layne will be available for purchase, and checks, credit cards and cash will be accepted.

The registration fee of $150 includes the workshop, luncheon and continuing education units. This program offers four PDPs for educators. Payment is by check, credit card or purchase order. Teams of three or more within the same school district pay $125 per person and must register by purchase order. Print the invoice or registration form online to complete and mail or fax in per instructions.

Registration has begun and is open until March 1, 2013. Registrations received by Jan. 31, 2013 will be entered into a raffle for free admission.

For more information or to register, visit www.fitchburgstate.edu/gce/speaker.

Back to News

View the original article here

Read More

ENC Welcomes Dr. Ben Cater, Assistant Professor of History

Published: 2013-01-22

ENC Provost Dr. Timothy Wooster is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Ben Cater as Assistant Professor of History and director of the Boston Semester program.

Dr. Cater, a native of Southern California, graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University, where he studied American history and literature. He received the A.B. Hammond Fellowship for Western American Studies to study at the University of Montana, Missoula, where he wrote a master's thesis that examined Episcopal Bishop Daniel S. Tuttle in post-Civil War Salt Lake City. Cater's research led him to pursue a Ph.D. in American history, as well as a doctoral minor in Latin American Studies, at the University of Utah. His dissertation explored the socioeconomic and religious dimensions of public health and medicine in Progressive Era Salt Lake City. During his research, he published several book reviews and articles in journals like the Utah Historical Quarterly, which awarded him the 2011 Nick Yengich Memorial Editor’s Choice Award for Best Article. In 2010, he received the university's coveted Floyd O'Neill Scholarship in Western American Studies, while from 2007 to 2009 the Simmons Media Fellowship and a host of grants from the Department of History and First Presbyterian Church, Salt Lake City, allowed him to continue his studies. At ENC, Dr. Cater will teach survey courses in American history and government, advanced seminars on a variety of topics, and courses on the history of colonial and modern Latin America.

Dr. Cater will live in Quincy with his wife, Anne, and daughters Vera (age 5) and Eden (age 2).

Related at ENC: Department of History

View the original article here

Read More

A Cappella Choir to present ‘Celebration of Love’ Valentine’s concert

Published: 2013-01-22
The Chamber Singers perform at Central Baptist Church

Eastern Nazarene College’s Chamber Singers and A Cappella Choir will present a Valentine’s Day concert at 7:00pm Friday, February 8 at Central Baptist Church in Quincy Center.

Titled “Celebration of Love,” the concert will feature a wide variety of music – including classical and contemporary arrangements as well as popular show tunes – under the direction of Dr. Timothy Shetler.

ENC’s A Cappella Choir and Chamber Singers tour regularly in the New England and Mid-Atlantic states. In addition to performing internationally, the choirs have performed at New York City’s Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, and at Boston’s historic Jordan Hall at New England Conservatory.

A suggested donation of $10 to $15 will be taken at the door. Seniors and students with a valid school ID may make a donation of their choice.

Central Baptist Church is located at 67 Washington St. in Quincy Center, across the street from the Thomas Crane Public Library. The church is handicapped accessible via the Foster St. entrance. For more information, contact the ENC Box Office at 617-745- 3715.

Related at ENC: A Cappella Choir and Chamber Singers

View the original article here

Read More

Metropolitan Opera Soprano Meredith Hansen to Perform

Published: 2013-01-14

The ENC Music Department will present a concert by Metropolitan Opera soprano Meredith Hansen at 7:00 pm Friday, January 25 in the Edith Cove Fine Arts Center.

A former vocal coach at ENC, Hansen’s program will include songs by Samuel Barber, Sigmund Romberg and other composers from the American Songbook, as well as selections from La Bohème and Die Fledermaus with internationally renowned tenor John Daniecki. She will collaborate with Dr. Brady Millican, pianist, chairman of the music department.

A Cohasset native, Hansen has performed as a soloist across America, singing with such prestigious groups as the Boston Symphony Orchestra under Rafael Frubeck de Burgos at both Symphony Hall and Carnegie Hall. She performed the role of Musetta in La Bohème with the Cedar Rapids Opera, and made her Metropolitan Opera House debut in 2012-2013 in the role of Woglinde in Wagner’s Ring Cycle. Ted Merek of the Boston Herald called her Boston Lyric Opera performance of Antonia in Les Contes d’Hofmann “a standout.”

General admission for the concert is $10 and free for ENC students. For more information, contact the Cove Fine Arts box office at 617-745-3715.

View the original article here

Read More

Choral Union to Present Handel's Messiah

Published: 2012-11-08
Choral Union performs with the Quincy Bay Chamber Orchestra at Wollaston Church of the Nazarene

A popular annual holiday tradition returns, as the Eastern Nazarene College Choral Union presents two free performances of Handel’s Messiah.

Comprised of ENC students and members of the community, the 60-voice Choral Union will present the beloved oratorio Saturday Dec. 1 at 7:00 pm and Sunday Dec. 2 at 3:00 pm at the Wollaston Church of the Nazarene. The choral group, consisting of students and community members, will be conducted by John Schnelle, accompanied by the Quincy Bay Chamber Orchestra. The performance will feature solos by professional singers baritone Ryan Mullaney and tenor Arthur Rishi, alto and ENC alum, Hannah Ford (10), and student sopranos Paige Fehr (14) and Elizabeth Blanchette (15).

For more than 75 years, the Eastern Nazarene College Choral Union has performed two major masterworks of choral literature each concert season. Each fall, the Choral Union presents free performances of Handel’s Messiah as a holiday gift to the city of Quincy. In the spring, the group performs a different piece each year, with previous concerts featuring works by Brahms, Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Faure and more.

Related at ENC: Music Department

View the original article here

Read More

GCE Information Session Jan. 8

Learn about the educational opportunities available at Fitchburg State University when the Office of Graduate and Continuing Education (GCE) hosts an information session on Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 5 p.m. The snow date for the event is Wednesday, Jan. 9.

The free session, where attendees will have the opportunity to speak with advisors, financial aid representatives and register for classes, will take place in Hammond Hall.

GCE at Fitchburg State offers more than 45 graduate and undergraduate degree and certificate programs in traditional and online formats. Take the first steps toward achieving your educational goals and register for the information session today.

Special information sessions will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. for the new LPN to BS in nursing bridge program, the online MBA, and graduate special education, education (early childhood, elementary, middle school) and counseling programs.
Drop in anytime between 5 and 6:30 p.m. to meet with Fitchburg State’s distance/online learning coordinator to learn more about the university’s online programs.

Visit http://web.fitchburgstate.edu/gce/infosession/ to register.

Back to News

View the original article here

Read More

Fitchburg State launches major in game design

Next fall Fitchburg State University will become the first public institution in New England to offer a bachelor’s degree in game design, preparing students with immediately marketable skills in a fast-growing industry.

The Massachusetts Board of Higher Education approved the new major at their December meeting. Applications are now being accepted for fall 2013.

The university’s first new major in more than a decade, the bachelor of science in game design will be part of the university’s heralded Communications Media Department. Members of that faculty designed the curriculum with input from colleagues in the university’s computer science, English studies and art programs.

“The video game industry is well established in Massachusetts, with dozens of game studios operating in the commonwealth,” Fitchburg State University President Robert V. Antonucci said. “Even in the midst of economic difficulties, the video game industry, in New England and nationwide, continues to grow and to search for talented and well-prepared applicants. With this new major, Fitchburg State reinforces its spirit of innovation and an emphasis on preparing students for rewarding careers.”

According to the Entertainment Software Association, computer and video game companies directly and indirectly employ more than 120,000 people in 34 states.

Fitchburg State professors Jeffrey Warmouth and Samuel Tobin, both from the communications media department, have played a major role designing the university’s game design curriculum.

“It was clear to me that for students that really wanted to do game design, we needed to build a major,” said Warmouth, adding the support from administration was key to success.

“It addresses a desire that’s been there,” added Tobin. “Students are already trying to do this, and this will allow them to do it.”

Several courses already offered on campus will count toward the major. The on-campus appetite for game design has been fueled by the highly successful GameCon event, which for six years has brought hundreds of students together for a daylong game competition and discussion of the latest technology.

"People of all genders, ages and backgrounds are playing games more and more often, and the games they are playing are also increasingly diverse," Tobin said.

The major is designed as a multidisciplinary program that will prepare students for employment in the state’s thriving game design sector. Students will explore game design and development, art and visual design, computer programming, 3D modeling and animation, level design, creative writing, and game studies. Other course topics include serious games, mobile platforms, history of games, and aesthetics. Like so many of Fitchburg State’s programs of study, the game design major will prepare students for careers in the industry.

In Massachusetts, from 2005 to 2009, the industry experienced 8.86 percent real annual growth and directly employed 1,295 people. In October 2010, referencing MassTLC’s 2009 Digital Games Cluster report, the Worcester Business Journal reported 76 firms and approximately 1,200 jobs in the industry. As of April 2011, approximately 110 companies across the state self-identify as participants in the sector, with a presence in nearly every corner of the state—from Boston to Williamstown and from Newburyport to Brockton. The top industry-oriented local site had 242 jobs listed as of June 2012.

There is also a growing student interest in the game design industry. Each year, students taking the SAT indicate their intended major. In the last year alone, there has been a 57 percent increase in the number of students nationally planning to major in game design (from 6,802 last year to 10,712 this upcoming year). In New England, the number increased from 391 to 551 students, a 41 percent increase during the same time period.

Fitchburg State will offer the first game design bachelor degree program in a public institution of higher learning in New England. Existing degrees in game design and development are located solely in private schools, where annual tuition and fees range from $30,000 to $43,800 compared to Fitchburg State’s $8,710.

Game design students will attain competency in the following concepts, practices and skills:

Analytical understanding of games, gameplay, and game designFoundations in visual art and creative writingPrinciples of game logic and programmingIndustry-standard game engines and softwareTeam-based iterative design processGames as media of communication and aesthetic expression

A unique feature of Fitchburg State’s game design program is a required one-semester 12-credit-hour internship. The internship has been a hallmark of the university’s communications media program for years, providing practical experience often cited by students – and employers – as one of the key distinguishing elements of a Fitchburg State education.

More information on the game design program can be found on the university website at www.fitchburgstate.edu/gamedesign.

Back to News

View the original article here

Read More

Unable to mirror from Ipad to Apple TV

I am using my ipad mini to connect to apple TV.  I have mirroring turned on.  I can hear the sound through the TV fine just not the picture.  Any ideas?

View the original article here

Read More

Fitchburg State hosts FAFSA Day Jan. 27

Fitchburg State University will join more than 25 other institutions offering free help on the free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) for college-bound students on FAFSA Day Massachusetts on Sunday, Jan. 27 at 1 p.m. The university's financial aid professionals will offer assistance at the campus center in Hammond Hall, 160 Pearl St.

Every high school senior, college student, and adult student who will be attending college during the 2013-2014 academic year needs to complete the FAFSA in order to apply for federal, state and institutional financial aid. FAFSA Day Massachusetts, a College Goal Sunday program, provides free help statewide to students and families looking to complete the FAFSA.

The ninth annual FAFSA Day Massachusetts is being held Sunday, Jan. 27 at 1 p.m. at over 25 locations, with additional locations available on different dates and times. Families are encouraged to visit http://www.FAFSADAY.org to register, and to view locations, dates and times. The services are free and available to anyone entering college in 2013; low-income, first-generation students are especially encouraged to attend. Many locations will have services available in various languages.

FAFSA Day is staffed by volunteer financial aid and higher education experts available to provide families one-on-one assistance. FAFSA Day is a non-profit program sponsored by Massachusetts Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, MEFA, American Student Assistance, and USA Funds. Over 10,000 students have been served during FAFSA Day events.

Visit here to register for FAFSA Day at Fitchburg State. For more information on FAFSA Day at Fitchburg State, contact Alcira Zadroga at azadroga@fitchburgstate.edu or by phone at 978-665-3556. For additional information, call 877-424-7627 or e-mail massinfo@fafsaday.org.

Back to News

View the original article here

Read More

CenterStage presents Lunasa on Saturday, Feb. 23

The CenterStage at Fitchburg State University arts and culture series invites you to be transported to the Emerald Isle when the celebrated Irish ensemble Lúnasa performs on Saturday, Feb. 23 at 8 p.m. in Weston Auditorium, 353 North St.

Lúnasa’s melodic lines soar as flutes, fiddles, whistles, and uillean pipe capture the ancient soul of traditional instrumental Irish music-and then surge into the 21st century with the rhythmic drive of the double bass. Experience what the Irish Voice calls “the hottest Irish acoustic group on the planet.” No wonder Irish Echo named Lúnasa’s CD one of Top Ten Traditional Albums of 2010.

Adding to the enjoyment of the evening are step-dance performances by the Fitchburg State dance club and Flying Irish Dance Studio from Ashby.

The performance is preceded by a spotlight talk at 7:15 p.m. with members of the band. While many Celtic bands feature a singer to carry its melodies, Lúnasa has taken a different path. Members of this band discuss how their instrumentation evokes the singer’s part.

Tickets for the concert are $28 for adults, $25 for seniors and $7 for students. The Weston Box Office, located inside Weston Auditorium, is open Thursdays and Fridays from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. and can be reached at 978-665-3347.

Lúnasa’s performance is co-sponsored by Sentinel & Enterprise, with support from media partner WPKZ and support from Slattery’s Restaurant.

Learn more at Lúnasa’s official website.
Hear for yourself on Lúnasa’s YouTube channel.

Back to News

View the original article here

Read More

Have a Macbook Air that is a late '12 model and two iPads. All used to work great with airplay, and then one day just up and quit working. I have checked to see if all wireless settings were open and the firewall was not blocking it. Thoughts?

Read More

Winter Revival with Dr. David Busic

Published: 2013-01-08
Dr. David Busic, president of Nazarene Theological Seminary

ENC is pleased to announce Dr. David Busic, president of Nazarene Theological Seminary, as the 2013 Winter Revival speaker, January 16-18. Dr. Busic will speak during college chapel services and at evening services.

Services Schedule
Wednesday and Friday - 10:25am
Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday - 7:00pm

Dr. David Busic is the ninth president of Nazarene Theological Seminary. His election on August 31, 2011, by the Board of Trustees was precipitated by the resignation of Dr. Ronald P. Benefiel.

Dr. Busic, 47, is a native of Central Oklahoma and was raised in Bethany. He received the Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern Nazarene University and the Master of Divinity degree from Nazarene Theological Seminary. In 2010, Southern Nazarene University conferred the Doctor of Divinity degree to him. He is currently pursuing doctoral studies in Theology and Culture at Fuller Theological Seminary.

Dr. Busic was ordained in the Church of the Nazarene in 1991. After serving in associate pastor roles in Oklahoma and Kansas, he served three churches as senior pastor: Vineyard Community Church of the Nazarene in Livermore, California; Central Church of the Nazarene in Lenexa, Kansas; and most recently the historic congregation of Bethany First Church of the Nazarene in Bethany, Oklahoma. During his tenure there, Dr. Busic helped initiate and establish the Swaziland Partnership in 2007 to help reduce the HIV/AIDS rate and to assist vulnerable children in Swaziland, Africa.

Dr. Busic has a distinguished tradition of service to the International Church of the Nazarene. He has served as a member of the General Board, the governing body of the denomination, from 2009 to present. During this time he was also elected President of the USA National Board. From 2005 to the present, Dr. Busic continues to serve as a member of the Board of General Superintendents’ Thought Partners, a think tank for critical issues facing the Church of the Nazarene.

Other denominational boards, councils, and positions Dr. Busic has served include Northern California District Nazarene Youth International President, Kansas City District Advisory Board, Northwest Oklahoma District Advisory Board, and Oklahoma District Advisory Board. He has also served on the Nazarene Theological Seminary Board of Trustees, Southern Nazarene University Board of Trustees, and as Adjunct Professor of Preaching at Nazarene Theological Seminary.

Dr. Busic has published numerous articles, co-authored two books, A Pastor’s Guide to Effective Preaching and Sharing My Faith, and was co-editor of Preacher’s Magazine: A Preaching Resource in the Wesleyan Tradition from 2000 to 2007. His preaching is widely respected throughout the church, making him a sought after speaker and leadership advisor.

Dr. Busic and his wife, Christi, currently reside in Kansas City, Missouri. They have three grown children, Megan, and husband, Joel Cantwell; Benjamin, and wife, Alicia; and Madison.

View the original article here

Read More

Professor publishes book on Mideast peace

Fitchburg State University Professor Eric N. Budd’s new volume on the struggle for peace in the Middle East – Conflicted are the Peacemakers: Israeli and Palestinian Moderates and the Death of Oslo – is being published this week by Continuum, an imprint of Bloomsbury Publishing.

The 1993 Oslo Accords were a key attempt to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, whose failure was largely attributed to extremists on both sides. Budd’s book challenges this conventional wisdom by examining the role of Israeli and Palestinian peacemakers themselves in derailing the peace process.

“The current conflict over the Gaza Strip shows how far apart the two sides remain,” said Budd, a faculty member in Fitchburg State’s department of economics, history and political science. “As the Oslo Peace Process has bogged down, the extremists have been empowered. With the moderates too conflicted to make peace, the extremists don't need to sabotage the peace process because the moderates have already done that for them, so the cycle of violence continues.”

Looking at the role of moderates before and after Oslo, the different agreements and peace proposals they negotiated, and their rhetoric, the book shows that these peacemakers retained an inherent ambivalence toward the peace process and one another. This prevented them and their constituents from committing to the process and achieving a lasting peace.

This unique survey shows how the people who drive the peace process can not only undermine it, but also prevent its successful conclusion. By dealing with such an important aspect of negotiation, the book will foster a better understanding of the role of moderates and why peace processes may falter.

Budd, one of the founders of Fitchburg State University’s Center for Conflict Studies, is the author of Democratization, Development and the Patrimonial State in the Age of Globalization (Lexington Books, 2003) as well as many articles and book reviews.

Back to News

View the original article here

Read More

Students Volunteer for Disaster Relief

Published: 2012-12-11
Student Volunteers (L-R): Ronan Storer, Sidney Karr, Chaplain Corey MacPherson, Katie Smith, Danielle Wilson, Sarah Brule, Kelsey Shoulla, Alicia Mahony, Alexander Mack, and Josh Lojzim

A team of nine students volunteered their time following finals week to help with Hurricane Sandy disaster relief in the Freeport, NY area. The team is staying from December 10-15 and is  partnering with Nazarene Disaster Relief and the Freeport Church of the Nazarene to assist in “mudding out houses”  – cleaning up houses flooded during the hurricane so they can be repaired. ENC faculty and staff donated funds to assist the students in their trip; the college community also contributed a U-Haul of goods last month for the NDR warehouse in Bronx, NY.

Senior Alicia Mahony helps tear down walls

Ronan Storer marks the flood waterline with his hand, showing how high the water was at the height of Sandy's damage

Ready to start cleaning!

Photos courtesy of Corey MacPherson, Ronan Storer, and Katie Smith

Related content: Nazarene Disaster Response Website

View the original article here

Read More

Dr. Bernard Luskin: Join the Society for Media Psychology & Technology

Posted by Hilary Edwards on Thu, Nov 15, 2012

Dr. Luskin has an exceptional history as an administrator, educator and leader in media psychology. Bernie Luskin has made many contributions and pioneered new programs," said Dr. Judith Kuipers, President Emeritus of Fielding Graduate University. "While at Fielding, Bernie developed and launched the first MA Ph.D. program in Media Psychology and EdD program in Media Studies in any university. Partnering with UCLA Extension, he launched a successful master's degree program in Media Psychology and Social Change, and at Touro University Worldwide he launched an MA degree program in Media and Communications Psychology," said Kuipers. From PR Newswire 

Published on Psychology Today (http://www.psychologytoday.com)

Following are ten important objectives that support the committment of the society to:

1.  Improve communication for a wider audience about the increasing importance of media psychology,

2.  Assure that everyone understands that media psychology includes technology within its scope and mission,

3.  Attract and encourage new membership based on increasing professional and public understanding of the society’s mission,

4.  Work together with the membership to enhance, brand and position the field of media psychology,

5.  Acknowledge that media psychology and technology cut across APA divisions, recognizing that the work of the Society for Media Psychology and Technology is central to the fields of education, entertainment, telehealth, telecommunications and commerce, including marketing, advertising, the military, public policy and government,

6.  Analyze and share findings, conclusions and possibilities in the study of media effects,

7.  Apply new knowledge in practice, teaching and research,

8.  Encourage worldwide growth in media psychology courses, degrees and certificate programs,

9.  Represent the specialty of media psychology in cooperating with other associations and fields, and

10.  Provide a worldwide forum for media psychology serving a professional community of interest and practice.Society members include researchers, practitioners, mental health providers, consultants, educators, military personnel and communications professionals providing services to all forms of TV, print, cinema, mobile and micro media, social media, telecommunications, telehealth, and teletherapy. The Society advocates the study of theories in psychology applied to media and the wide dissemination of media psychology effects on human behavior.

Education is a priority.

Creative media applications in learning are rapidly expanding. Focus on MOOCS, online and blended learning, augmented reality, artificial intelligence; robotics in commerce, education, public policy, telehealth, and military applications from inner to outer space are increasing. Twenty-first century educational institutions need more sophisticated faculty and staff who understand higher concepts in media arts and sciences. Individuals must now grasp the implications of media to perform competitively in the majority of new and emerging occupational specialties.

Media psychology includes the understanding of the physical and emotional aspects of the brain. Range of emotion, expression, persuasion, sexuality and gender are among the areas of continuing study within media psychology. Also included are theories of attention, persuasion, emotional control, believability, situational cognition, assessment, learning, mind mapping, persistence, reinforcement, mastery, success and failure. “Pscybermedia,” is a neologism combining psychology (human behavior), artificial intelligence (cybernetics) and media (pictures, graphics and sound).

Applying the art and science of media psychology has become essential to effective teaching. Media psychologists study and report the effects of research on sensory and cognitive processes that impact cultural attitudes and values.

Effects research examines how the various news and entertainment media affect, and are affected by, audiences, their demographics and numbers. Examples of media influences include the formation, maintenance and/or change of individual and group stereotypes. On-camera and off-camera diversity representation, the framing of media stories and news, advertising, public service messages, political messages and more, directly influence overt and nuanced human behavior.

Understanding applied media psychology is important for those who work with and within the public and private sectors. Specifically included are government, military, public and private health services and all areas of telecommunications, teletherapy and commerce. The pursuit of commercial opportunities and innovations in the delivery of online learning for traditional education institutions and corporate university populations are equally important areas.  Media psychologists are among the professionals who consult with producers of printed and electronic books, films, those who appear as guests or hosts on radio or television, and all who offer on-line services involving advice, counseling information, expert testimony in litigation and dispute resolution.

Scholar practitioners’ are us.

A scholar/practitioner approach is increasingly important for many career professionals. The scientist-clinical and applied practitioner is a natural disciple of the media psychology specialty.  Thucydides, author of The History of the Peloponnesian War written in 431 B.C.E., is reputed to have said it best:

“A nation that draws too broad a difference between its scholars and its warriors will have its thinking being done by cowards, and its fighting done by fools.”

Combining research, theory and practice maximizes new opportunities in health services, public service and public policy, publishing, education, entertainment and commerce for those with a solid foundational understanding of theories in psychology and their connection to human behavior.

The APA Society for Media Psychology and Technology will heighten awareness, open new career options and serve as a catalyst in providing a forum so that working together we can achieve a better world.

Society Website:   http://www.apa.org/divisions/div46/index...

References:

Luskin, Bernard Jay, (1970) An Identification and Examination of Obstacles to the Development of Computer Assisted Instruction, University Microfilm ID: 7199656, 288 pages

Luskin, B. J., & Friedland, L. (1998). Task force report: Media psychology and new technologies. Washington, DC: Division of Media Psychology, Division 46 of the American Psychological Association. Link:http://www.apa.org/divisions/div46/articles.html

Luskin, B.J. (2003, May/June) Media psychology: A field that’s time is here, The California Psychologist, May/June, 2003, reprinted, National Psychologist

_______________

Dr. Bernard Luskin is President-elect (2014), of the Society for Media Psychology and Technology, the Media Psychology Division 46 of the American Psychological Association. In 2011, the Society recognized Bernie Luskin with its award for Distinguished Lifetime Achievement in Media Psychology. He can be reached at: BernieLuskin@gmail.com, www.LuskinInternational.com.

 News Archive

View the original article here

Read More

Celuzza to be honored at Winter Commencement

Fitchburg State University will hold its 117th commencement exercises, winter ceremony, Friday, Jan. 25 at 6:30 p.m. in the campus Athletics and Recreation Center. More than 600 undergraduate and graduate degrees will be awarded during the evening, which will also include presentation of the President’s Medal to restaurateur and philanthropist David Celuzza. President Robert V. Antonucci will deliver the commencement address.

Celuzza (pictured) the owner of Slattery’s Restaurant in Fitchburg, has been an engaged citizen and entrepreneur for decades, devoting his talent and energy to countless organizations and community projects.

Celuzza managed Slattery’s for 12 years before taking ownership in 1984 and transforming the local pub into a full-service restaurant. The establishment, which employs 70 people, has been named one of the top 500 independent restaurants in the United States by “Restaurant & Institutions” magazine.

After graduating from Fitchburg High School, Celuzza earned a bachelor of science degree from Fitchburg State. He was a member of the staff of the student newspaper The Cycle, whose editors took the administration to federal court in a civil rights/freedom of speech battle that garnered national attention.

A former member of the U.S. Army Reserve, Celuzza currently serves on the board of directors of IC Federal Credit Union, where he chairs its supervisory committee, as well as the board of directors for Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School Foundation. In addition, he is past chairman of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, and the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, where he also chaired the educational foundation.

Celuzza is a longtime champion of education. He founded Slattery’s Turkey Trot, one of the largest and most successful road running events in the state. The race, which celebrated its 32nd running in 2012, awards thousands of dollars in scholarships each year to six local high schools, with nearly $180,000 donated over its history. Celuzza has also served on the board of directors of the Fitchburg State University Foundation and chaired its development committee.

In 2009, he was named Citizen of the Year by the Multi-Service Center and made an honorary lifetime member of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association Board of Directors. In 2010, he was presented with the Distinguished Citizen Award by the Nashua Valley Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

Celuzza and his wife, Donna, and their son, Liam, live in Lunenburg.

More information can be found on the commencement website.

Back to News

View the original article here

Read More

Creativity: An Important Paradigm for Aging

Posted by Hilary Edwards on Fri, Dec 14, 2012

The National Center for Creative Aging explains: “Health and wellness can be achieved in many ways, including using creativity to work the mind and body. Research has shown that mental activity stimulated by arts activities can be especially beneficial to people with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Cases of cognitive disabilities increase with age, so as the population lives longer more people will be diagnosed. By bringing arts programs to people with cognitive disabilities, you can create more opportunities for people with cognitive loss and their caregivers.” http://www.creativeaging.org/health-wellness (accessed December 14, 2012) 

Historically, older adults have functioned as the keepers of culture in society, and are responsible for passing on the history and values of a community to the next generation. Creativity in later life wraps this gift to children, grandchildren, and society in the form of beautiful artwork. The Sixth Annual International Conference on Positive Aging, hosted by Fielding Graduate University, is a highly interactive gathering of diverse leaders and community members interested in shaping a dynamic future for older adults throughout the world. The conference features the following workshops and presentations focused on creativity and aging: 

Say ‘Yes’ to Tango: A Conversation about Creative Aging by Lola Fraknoi

Save My Place: A Performance Piece on Dying by Dori Gillam

Nimble Minds, Nimble Bodies: Exploring How the Creative Arts Contribute to Lifelong Human Development, Health, and Quality of Life by Michael Patterson

The Art of Aging by Richard and Alice Matzkin

Visionaries Have Wrinkles: Serving the Generation Who Will Change the World by Karen Sands

The Courage to be Brilliant: How to Aging with Courage, Wisdom and Grace by Marta Monahan

 The Sixth Annual International Conference on Positive Aging features a keynote address by Wendy Lustbader, MSW, who will speak about “The Unexpected Pleasures of Growing Older"—the title of her latest book. She has also written and spoken about kindness and how to nurture a basic positive attitude towards whatever life brings as we get older.  Featured speaker Dr. Brian de Vries is a Fellow of the Gerontological Society of America, a member of the leadership council for the American Society on Aging, and co-chair of the Lesbian and Gay Aging Issues Network constituency group. Dr. de Vries will speak about his extensive work on aging experiences, including bereavement among gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender adults. Further highlighted speakers include one of the reigning pioneers of gerontology, James Birren, who will receive Fielding Graduate University’s Creative Longevity and Wisdom Award along with well-known spiritual leader Ram Dass, who will relay his experience in spiritual methods and practices via webinar.

The International Conference on Positive Aging aims to provide practitioners and policymakers with knowledge and tools to improve their support of older persons and increase the quality of life for all.

Click here for the website: Sixth Annual International Conference on Positive Aging
Facebook - Keep up with the latest information about the conference, and access to a network of individuals who are interested and involved in the topic of positive aging
Click here for Facebook: The Fielding Positive Aging Conference
YouTube – View videos of speakers from previous conferences
Click here for YouTube:Channel for Positive Aging

**Photo by Peter Whitehouse

News Archive

View the original article here

Read More

Third Thursday film series continues Jan. 17 with “Baby Face”

The Third Thursday film series – bridging the Fitchburg State University campus and the city – continues this spring. The community is invited to join Fitchburg State faculty and staff members for free monthly film screenings and discussions at the Fitchburg Public Library.

Each film is presented at 7 p.m. in the library auditorium, introduced by a member of the university’s faculty or staff. The films touch on issues or events that will resonate with today’s audiences. A discussion follows each screening.

The spring semester offerings are:

Jan. 17 – Laura Baker (Economics, History and Political Science) presents Baby Face (1933), starring Barbara Stanwyck  as a young woman who uses her body and her sexuality to help her climb the social ladder, but soon begins to wonder if her new status will ever bring her happiness.

Feb. 21 – Michael Turk (Economics, History and Political Science) presents Inside Job (2010), which takes a close look at what brought about the financial meltdown.

March 21 – Kristy Collins (Capital Planning and Maintenance) presents Marwencol (2010), a documentary about Mark Hogancamp, a man left brain-damaged and broke after a vicious attack who seeks recovery in “Marwencol,” a one-sixth scale World War II-era town he creates in his backyard.

April 18 – Joana Dos Santos, a graduate student and director of the Cleghorn Neighborhood Center, presents Papers: Stories of Undocumented Youth (2009). Papers is the story of undocumented youth and the challenges they face as they turn 18 without legal status.

May 16 – Eric Budd (Economics, History and Political Science) and Joe Moser (English) present Make Way for Tomorrow (1937), about an elderly couple forced to separate when they lose their house and none of their five children will take in both parents.

Back to News

View the original article here

Read More

Metropolitan Opera Soprano Meredith Hansen to Perform

Published: 2013-01-14

The ENC Music Department will present a concert by Metropolitan Opera soprano Meredith Hansen at 7:00 pm Friday, January 25 in the Edith Cove Fine Arts Center.

A former vocal coach at ENC, Hansen’s program will include songs by Samuel Barber, Sigmund Romberg and other composers from the American Songbook, as well as selections from La Bohème and Die Fledermaus with internationally renowned tenor John Daniecki. She will collaborate with Dr. Brady Millican, pianist, chairman of the music department.

A Cohasset native, Hansen has performed as a soloist across America, singing with such prestigious groups as the Boston Symphony Orchestra under Rafael Frubeck de Burgos at both Symphony Hall and Carnegie Hall. She performed the role of Musetta in La Bohème with the Cedar Rapids Opera, and made her Metropolitan Opera House debut in 2012-2013 in the role of Woglinde in Wagner’s Ring Cycle. Ted Merek of the Boston Herald called her Boston Lyric Opera performance of Antonia in Les Contes d’Hofmann “a standout.”

General admission for the concert is $10 and free for ENC students. For more information, contact the Cove Fine Arts box office at 617-745-3715.

View the original article here

Read More

Agreement between RCNET, Excelsior College Set to Fill Nuclear Industry Leadership Void

Agreement between RCNET, Excelsior College Set to Fill Nuclear Industry Leadership Void

By Mike Lesczinski, Excelsior Life News Staff--

Excelsior College and the Regional Center for Nuclear Education and Training (RCNET) today announced a new educational partnership aimed at developing the next generation of nuclear industry leaders. The RCNET is comprised of 37 community colleges that follow the Nuclear Uniform Curriculum Program (NUCP), a framework for educating and developing operators and technicians for nuclear power plants.

Under the educational agreement, graduates of these associate degree programs will be able to pursue, at a reduced cost, a bachelor’s degree from Excelsior’s accredited program in nuclear engineering technology or other technical areas. A four-year degree is widely considered preferred path for leadership positions within most nuclear facilities.
Currently, there are 1,368 students enrolled in RCNET programs eligible under this agreement.

“The looming workforce shortage in the nuclear industry affects all levels including leadership. This partnership between Excelsior and RCNET helps address this leadership void by providing technicians affordable, doable pathways to advanced degrees and leadership training,” said Kevin Cooper, director of the Regional Center for Nuclear Education and Training.

“Just as the NUCP has created a pipeline of nuclear technicians, this agreement between Excelsior and RCNET will help produce seasoned nuclear leaders capable of navigating the industry through the many challenges that lie ahead,” said Dr. Jane LeClair, dean of Excelsior College’s School of Business and Technology.

With 39 percent of the nuclear workforce eligible for retirement by 2016, the nuclear industry launched NUCP in 2007, a standardized educational program for operators and technicians in nuclear facilities.

RCNET, the first of its kind in the nation, was established at Indian River State College in 2012 through a $3.1 million National Science Foundation (NSF) Advanced Technological Education (ATE) grant. Acting as a centralized resource, RCNET will provide curriculum, training for faculty and staff and facilitate communication and collaboration across the nuclear industry, colleges and universities.

Excelsior College, a private, nonprofit distance learning institution in Albany, New York was founded in 1971. It is comprised of four schools: Business and Technology, Health Sciences, Liberal Arts and Nursing. Excelsior's Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD 21202, 410-347-7700; www.abet.org, ABET is a specialized accrediting agency recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

View the original article here

Read More

Metropolitan Opera Soprano Meredith Hansen to Perform

Published: 2013-01-14

The ENC Music Department will present a concert by Metropolitan Opera soprano Meredith Hansen at 7:00 pm Friday, January 25 in the Edith Cove Fine Arts Center.

A former vocal coach at ENC, Hansen’s program will include songs by Samuel Barber, Sigmund Romberg and other composers from the American Songbook, as well as selections from La Bohème and Die Fledermaus with internationally renowned tenor John Daniecki. She will collaborate with Dr. Brady Millican, pianist, chairman of the music department.

A Cohasset native, Hansen has performed as a soloist across America, singing with such prestigious groups as the Boston Symphony Orchestra under Rafael Frubeck de Burgos at both Symphony Hall and Carnegie Hall. She performed the role of Musetta in La Bohème with the Cedar Rapids Opera, and made her Metropolitan Opera House debut in 2012-2013 in the role of Woglinde in Wagner’s Ring Cycle. Ted Merek of the Boston Herald called her Boston Lyric Opera performance of Antonia in Les Contes d’Hofmann “a standout.”

General admission for the concert is $10 and free for ENC students. For more information, contact the Cove Fine Arts box office at 617-745-3715.

View the original article here

Read More

Innovations in Information Design: Fielding Graduate University and Brooks Institute Unite

Posted by Hilary Edwards on Wed, Jan 02, 2013

During the most recent new student orientation (NSO), Fielding students used the Brooks media lab to produce introductory films. In November, faculty Jean-Pierre Isbouts put 17 students through their paces at the very successful Final Cut Pro cluster/workshop held at the Brooks Institute in Ventura. By the end of the workshop, students were cutting their own film shorts.

Perhaps you've sat through a truly terrible PowerPoint presentation. Worse yet, you may have produced one yourself. Even worse, you may have turned one in to a faculty member only to have it bounce right back to you. It doesn't have to be this way. In this workshop you will learn the presentation ropes; how to design visual information, add full motion, animations, compelling backgrounds, voice over, even timed garage band style music tracks. More than likely, you saw one of the versions of "Did You Know" on YouTube. This is little more than a well produced slide show but it has attracted well over 20 million discrete viewers. This can be a powerful media for building a business as well as social advocacy and this workshop can help make it work for you.

Location: Media lab at The Brooks Institute of Photography's facility at 27 E. Cota Street which is about a mile from the Winter Session hotel

Register contact: Katie Huber, Director of Career Services | 805.690.7679 | workshops@brooks.edu

Fee: $150.00

Registration is open to all Fielding students, faculty and staff.

Space is limited.

News Archive

View the original article here

Read More

The Mendelssohn Choir of Connecticut performs "Angels and Demons"

3 p.m., Sunday, January 27, 2013
Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts

Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts partners with The Mendelssohn Choir of Connecticut under the leadership of Dr. Carole Ann Maxwell for a special performance, "Angels and Demons," at 3 p.m., Sunday, January 27, 2013 at the Quick Center. The performance features Beth Palmer, accompanist; Michael Jovovich, guest artist; and Anthony DeQuattro, on percussion. Tickets are $35; $10 for children and students.

With this concert, The Mendelssohn Choir,one of Connecticut's favorite choral ensembles, presents a unique program that combines various styles, periods, and genres. "Our 'collage concert' makes unexpected partners of diverse songs and explores the relationships and interconnectedness of various musical styles," said Dr. Carole Ann Maxwell. "This concert respects and celebrates the great diversity of spiritual and human experiences represented among our singers and listeners. It is an innovative and daring blend of sacred and profane, drawing from the worlds of art music, the Negro Spiritual, and diverse forms of popular music from British rock to Broadway ballads."

From the medieval plainchant of "In Paradisum" to the stylized Venetian counterpoint of Jacob Handl's Duo Seraphim, angelic proclamations are set alongside more contemporary acclamations of the Gloria from the American composers Ron Nelson and Dominick Argento. Prayerful and poignant settings of angelic beauty are further embraced in the choral works of Gabriel Fauré and Sergei Rachmaninoff. The concert also features music by contemporary songwriters and performers and includes works by Florence and The Machine, Charlie Daniels, and Freddie Mercury.

The Mendelssohn Choir of Connecticut (MCC), which is currently celebrating its 28th Anniversary Season, develops and promotes an appreciation of choral music to educate its members and the general public in the musical arts. It mines an extensive repertoire that embraces musical works of all periods and genres including classical, contemporary, opera, and pop. The Choir has performed to enthusiastic audiences in Rome, Florence, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, returning to Carnegie Hall in January 2011, and touring Ireland in June 2012.

MCC was originally founded in 1984 by alumni of the Fairfield University Chamber Singers wishing to continue a musical association with Dr. Carole Ann Maxwell, the artistic director of The Mendelssohn Choir of Connecticut since its inception. Recognizing the talent and achievements of the Mendelssohn Choir of Connecticut, acclaimed ensembles such as the Greater Bridgeport Symphony Orchestra, the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra, and the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra continue to seek out the Choir for concert collaborations. MCC has also been privileged to perform with both Distinguished Concerts International of New York and Mid-America Productions at Carnegie Hall. Besides leading the MCC, Dr. Maxwell has served as Director of Choral and Liturgical Music for Fairfield University since 1980, and has been the Conductor of the Summer Festival Chorus at the Quick Center since its beginnings 16 years ago.

While MCC focuses first on its artistry, it is also keenly aware of its responsibility to increase public awareness of, and involvement in, the arts in our area. The Choir's Outreach Program, the Mendelssingers, sends Choir members to hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities and various community events to bring the wonder and awe of live choral music to those special venues.The performance is presented in collaboration with Fairfield University and the Quick Center for the Arts.

Tickets are available through the Quick Center Box Office: (203) 254-4010, or toll-free 1-877-ARTS-396 (1-877-278-7396). Tickets can also be purchased online at www.quickcenter.com.

Media Contact: Mike Horyczun, (203) 254-4000 ext. 2647, mhoryczun@fairfield.edu

Posted on January 08, 2013

Vol. 45, No. 145

View the original article here

Read More

Choral Union to Present Handel's Messiah

Published: 2012-11-08
Choral Union performs with the Quincy Bay Chamber Orchestra at Wollaston Church of the Nazarene

A popular annual holiday tradition returns, as the Eastern Nazarene College Choral Union presents two free performances of Handel’s Messiah.

Comprised of ENC students and members of the community, the 60-voice Choral Union will present the beloved oratorio Saturday Dec. 1 at 7:00 pm and Sunday Dec. 2 at 3:00 pm at the Wollaston Church of the Nazarene. The choral group, consisting of students and community members, will be conducted by John Schnelle, accompanied by the Quincy Bay Chamber Orchestra. The performance will feature solos by professional singers baritone Ryan Mullaney and tenor Arthur Rishi, alto and ENC alum, Hannah Ford (10), and student sopranos Paige Fehr (14) and Elizabeth Blanchette (15).

For more than 75 years, the Eastern Nazarene College Choral Union has performed two major masterworks of choral literature each concert season. Each fall, the Choral Union presents free performances of Handel’s Messiah as a holiday gift to the city of Quincy. In the spring, the group performs a different piece each year, with previous concerts featuring works by Brahms, Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Faure and more.

Related at ENC: Music Department

View the original article here

Read More

Highlighting the uniqueness of students, faculty, and alumni: Fielding Graduate University introduces new Pinterest page

Posted by Hilary Edwards on Fri, Nov 02, 2012

Pinterest has captivated media, public relations, and social media business communities unlike any other. Visual bookmarking and social networking is easier than ever before, and now Fielding students, faculty, and alumni can establish a presence on Pinterest by a simple click of the “pin it” button.

Recent new data shows that it is the fourth largest referral network after passing Yahoo and now only sits behind Google, Facebook and Twitter. Pinterest traffic grew by 43.7% from June to July and grew again by 33.33% from July to August.  In the last 12 months according to Experian, Pinterest has grown 5,124 percent.

The goal for the Fielding Pinterest page is to be a place for the community to share images, links, and photos of achievements and experiences that visually convey what Fielding is all about.  Fielding is known for being a close community, and in this day and age, social media is one of the easiest ways to connect in a virtual setting.  The beauty of the Fielding Pinterest page is that by “pinning” an image on a web page, like the cover of a book recently published by alumni or a picture of a recent graduate smiling as they receive their diploma, users uniquely connect and share ideas quickly and easily. 

The pinning is just beginning on the Fielding Pinterest page:

The Fielding Community

Fielding Faces

Education

News Archive

View the original article here

Read More

Host Dr. Connie Corley of "Experience Talks" interviews musician/author/educator Christine Stevens

Posted by Hilary Edwards on Wed, Dec 05, 2012

Stevens is an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, and music therapist. Holding masters degrees in both social work and music therapy, Stevens inspires people all over the world with her message of music for holistic health, spirituality and wellness. Stevens is the author of Music Medicine, The Healing Drum Kit, and The Art and Heart of Drum Circles book and DVD. She has recorded two play-along CDs; Reviving Rhythms, and Drumming Up Diva.

Stevens is the founder of UpBeat Drum Circles, offering diversity training, teambuilding, and wellness presentations world-wide. She has trained facilitators and led workshops in more than twenty countries, including Iraq, Hong Kong, Brazil, South Africa, Japan, and Western Europe.

Stevens trains HealthRHYTHMS facilitators throughout the United States, England and Japan through Remo, the world's largest drum company. A leader in the music and wellness movement, Christine also serves on the editorial board of Explore: A Journal of Science and Healing. 

Dr. Corley is a Professor at Fielding Graduate University and California State University Los Angeles (and Associate Director of Lifelong Learning, Applied Gerontology Institute).  She completed her graduate degrees at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. She holds certification from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine in Washington, DC and is adjunct faculty at Saybrook University. Dr. Corley's 100+ publications and national/international presentations have spanned the fields of aging and the arts, geriatrics, rehabilitation, spirituality, and substance abuse.  She  has been a mentor in Geriatric Social Work Initiatives funded by the John A. Hartford Foundation, and also a mentor in the New Ventures in Leadership program of the American Society on Aging (ASA). She is a fellow of the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) and the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE), Past President of the Association for Gerontology Education in Social Work (AGE-SW),  a recipient of the AGE-SW Leadership Award, and in 2004 was the Inaugural recipient of the West Coast Gerontological Social Work Career Award from the Institute for Geriatric Social Work.  Cal State LA named Dr. Corley a Distinguished Woman in 2008. She is in "Who's Who in America” and “Who’s Who of American Women.” 

News Archive

View the original article here

Read More

“The Language of Men” Honored at New England Book Festival

“The Language of Men” Honored at New England Book Festival

In “The Language of Men” Anthony D’Aries searches to learn more about the father he emulates, a Vietnam Veteran who works at the local deli and rebuilds muscle cars in his spare time. The memoir, the third book published by Hudson Whitman/Excelsior College Press, earned an honorable mention this week from the New England Book Festival.

Traveling to Vietnam with his wife, who teaches health and anatomy classes to sex workers in Ho Chi Minh City, D’Aries explores conflicting images of masculinity, and, as his marriage begins to falter, arrives at realizations that begin to explain his father’s life, as well as his own troubling behaviors.

"We're thrilled Anthony is beginning to receive some much-deserved recognition," said Susan Petrie, director, Hudson Whitman/Excelsior College Press.

Reviews
Huffington Post “Interpreting ‘The Language of Men”
Boston Globe “Looking at the way men think”
Newsday “Father shares story, forges bond with son”

Purchase “The Language of Men”
Hardcover: $22
Paperback: $17.95
eBook (EPUB or Kindle): $9.99

View the original article here

Read More

"Race to Nowhere," "Temple Grandin" highlight education film series at Fairfield University

Fairfield University's Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions (GSEAP) will host a free public film series beginning on Wednesday, February 20 with the first of three films about the American educational system and related topics. The series is sponsored by GSEAP, The Office of Graduate Student Life and the Connecticut Writing Project-Fairfield.

The films will be shown in the multimedia room of the University's DiMenna-Nyselius Library with ample parking behind the Quick Center for the Arts. Fairfield welcomes the public to these free screenings. Light refreshments will be served and GSEAP faculty will facilitate discussions following each film.

The first film is "Race to Nowhere," which will be screened at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, February 20. Released in 2010, this thought-provoking film features the troubling stories of students across the country pushed to the brink by overscheduling, over-testing and the relentless pressure to achieve. Sheri Linden of the Los Angeles Times called "Race to Nowhere" "a dire warning and solid piece of advocacy journalism, complete with an action checklist at film's end."

Next up is the award-winning "Temple Grandin" (2010) at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 27. Claire Danes won an Emmy, a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award for her performance as the title character, a woman who refuses to let autism limit her true potential. "The best biopic in a very, very long time," wrote A.O. Scott of At the Movies.

The final film in the series, "The Revisionaries," will be screened at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 25. This 2012 documentary showcases how public education has become the latest battleground in a new wave of cultural, religious and ideological clashes, with local Texas education board members advancing agendas of Creationism and other religious issues in public schools. "It's a symbolic fight of our times, making [the film] a compelling and involving work," wrote critic Cary Darling of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

For more information, contact Stephanie Burrell Storms, Ed.D., at (203) 254-4000, ext. 3334 or sstorms@fairfield.edu.

Media Contact: Meredith Guinness, (203) 254-4000, ext. 2950, mguinness@fairfield.edu

Posted on January 15, 2013

Vol. 45, No. 141

View the original article here

Read More

Fielding alumni present at the 43rd Annual National Indian Education Association Convention

Posted by Hilary Edwards on Mon, Nov 19, 2012

The theme for this year's convention was "Maintaining Traditions in a Digital Era" and the conference was filled with exciting dialog, inspiration, and sharing of innovative ideas for use in the classroom. The NIEA Annual Convention and Tradeshow brings together Native leaders, congressional representatives, educators, students and school administrators to share best practices, connect with others who are passionate about educating Native students, and pursue solutions to education issues that affect Native communities. Each year, the convention teaches attendees about the local tribal culture and language through various evening events. NIEA’s board of directors and resolutions for yearly legislative priorities are also determined at this event.

Pictured above (left to right): Henry Fowler, Fielding faculty Kathy Tiner, Sandy Kewanhaptewa Dixon, and friend Charlene Teters.

News Archive

View the original article here

Read More

A Cappella Choir to present ‘Celebration of Love’ Valentine’s concert

Published: 2013-01-22
The Chamber Singers perform at Central Baptist Church

Eastern Nazarene College’s Chamber Singers and A Cappella Choir will present a Valentine’s Day concert at 7:00pm Friday, February 8 at Central Baptist Church in Quincy Center.

Titled “Celebration of Love,” the concert will feature a wide variety of music – including classical and contemporary arrangements as well as popular show tunes – under the direction of Dr. Timothy Shetler.

ENC’s A Cappella Choir and Chamber Singers tour regularly in the New England and Mid-Atlantic states. In addition to performing internationally, the choirs have performed at New York City’s Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, and at Boston’s historic Jordan Hall at New England Conservatory.

A suggested donation of $10 to $15 will be taken at the door. Seniors and students with a valid school ID may make a donation of their choice.

Central Baptist Church is located at 67 Washington St. in Quincy Center, across the street from the Thomas Crane Public Library. The church is handicapped accessible via the Foster St. entrance. For more information, contact the ENC Box Office at 617-745- 3715.

Related at ENC: A Cappella Choir and Chamber Singers

View the original article here

Read More

Preparations are set for the Sixth Annual International Conference on Positive Aging in Los Angeles, CA in February 2013

Posted by Hilary Edwards on Thu, Nov 29, 2012

According to the U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, baby boomers will turn 65 at a rate of 10,000 per day for the next decade making them the fastest growing segment of the population. Future implications indicate: “tomorrow’s elderly will have quite different social, demographic, health, and economic characteristics than today’s elderly… as average length of life continues to increase, issues regarding the quality of active life expectancy are likely to assume greater importance.” In anticipation of this growing segment of our population, the Sixth Annual International Conference on Positive Aging, hosted by Fielding Graduate University’s Institute for Social Innovation, brings together notable speakers and workshop leaders to explore new and innovative approaches to positive aging. This year’s topic is “Life-Reimagined: New Approaches to Positive Aging” and the conference will take place February 10-12, 2013 at the Center for Healthy Communities at The California Endowment in Los Angeles.

The Sixth Annual International Conference on Positive Aging includes a variety of workshops that explore themes of creative expression, community, wellness, and life transitions.  Dr. Katrina Rogers, Provost of Fielding Graduate University and Senior Vice-President states:  “Positive aging promotes creativity, wellness, and growth. It means taking personal control of your life instead of being a victim or passive observer. In this model, aging presents a new opportunity for being socially active, for engaging with the community, for being productive, and for seeking a new meaning and purpose in life. This is why the conference is larger each year: people are interested about how to age well.” The conference provides opportunities to engage in physical and creative activities, including yoga, meditation, music, and connecting with others with similar interests.  Conference registration is open to the public.

The keynote speaker for this year’s conference is Wendy Lustbader, MSW, who currently serves as Affiliate Associate Professor at the University of Washington School of Social Work. Ms. Lustbader has considerable experience working with older people, their families and caregivers, and lectures nationally on subjects related to aging.  As a medical social worker, she specialized for almost twenty years in out-patient mental health at the Pike Market Medical Clinic in Seattle, and has also practiced in a home health care agency, hospital geriatric unit, and nursing home. Ms. Lustbader’s first book was co-authored with Nancy Hooyman, Taking Care of Aging Family Members. This is a practical guide to caregiving which is still considered the best book of its kind by experts in the field of aging. At the opening reception on Sunday, February 10th, Ms. Lustbader will speak about her latest book, Life Gets Better: The Unexpected Pleasures of Growing Older.

The conference will also host a webinar with world-renowned American contemporary spiritual teacher and author Ram Dass. He is known for his personal and professional associations with Timothy Leary at Harvard University in the early 1960's, for his travels to India and his relationship with the Hindu guru Neem Karoli Baba, and for founding the charitable organizations Seva Foundation and Hanuman Foundation. His practice of karma yoga or spiritual service has opened up millions to their deep, yet individuated spiritual practice and path. Dass continues to uphold the boddhisatva ideal for others through his compassionate sharing of true knowledge and vision. His unique skill in getting people to cut through and feel divine love without dogma is still a positive influence on people all over the world.

Dr. James E. Birren is one of the "reigning pioneers" in the organized field of gerontology since the 1940s. He is a past president of The Gerontological Society of America, and author of over 250 publications. Dr. Birren will receive Fielding's Creative Longevity and Wisdom Award in recognition of his six decades of seminal contributions including the influential work on guided autobiography.

Featured speaker Dr. Brian de Vries, Professor of Gerontology at San Francisco State University, and will share his extensive work on aging experiences, including bereavement among gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender adults.  He is a Fellow of the Gerontological Society of American, a member of the Leadership Council for the American Society on Aging, and co-chair of the Lesbian and Gay Aging Issues Network constituency group. Most recently, Dr. de Vries has become a policy advisor for AARP, California. 

Early registration for the three day conference is $275 until January 14th, 2013, and $300 after. Single day tickets are $125. Registration includes meals and opening reception Sunday evening.  To attend only the Sunday dinner reception featuring keynote speaker Wendy Lustbader is $80.

News Archive

View the original article here

Read More

Warren Lambert recently named President of the KALGBTIC

Posted by Hilary Edwards on Wed, Nov 07, 2012

KALGBTIC is a division of the Kentucky Counseling Association and works in partnership with the national division of the Association of Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Issue in Counseling (ALGBTIC). The mission of ALGBTIC includes the recognition of both individual and social contexts representing the confluence of race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, ability, age, spiritual or religious belief system, indigenous heritage in order: to promote greater awareness and understanding of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) issues among members of the counseling profession and related helping occupations, to improve standards and delivery of counseling services provided to GLBT clients and communities, to identify conditions which create barriers to the human growth and development of GLBT clients and communities and use counseling skills, programs, and efforts to preserve, protect, and promote such development, to develop, implement, and foster interest in counseling-related charitable, scientific, and educational programs designed to further the human growth and development of GLBT clients and communities, to secure equality of treatment, advancement, qualifications, and status of GLBT members of the counseling profession and related helping occupations, and to publish a journal and other scientific, educational, and professional materials with the purpose of raising the standards of practice for all who work with GLBT clients and communities in the counseling profession and related helping occupations.

News Archive

View the original article here

Read More

Theatre Fairfield's Independent Project presents Pulitzer Prize-winning play "How I Learned to Drive" by Paula Vogel

January 25-27th, 2013
PepsiCo Theatre, Fairfield University

Theatre Fairfield, Fairfield University's resident production company, opens its 2013 theatrical season with an Independent Project production of "How I Learned to Drive," Paula Vogel's 1998 Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Student proposed, conceived, and produced, "How I Learned to Drive" will be a completely student-driven production. Performances take place at 8 p.m. on Friday, January 25 and Saturday, January 26, 2013, and at 2 p.m. Saturday January 26 and Sunday January 27, 2013, at the PepsiCo Theatre on Fairfield University's campus. Tickets are $7 for General Admission, and $5 for Students. Tickets are available through the Quick Center Box Office: (203) 254-4010, or toll-free 1-877-ARTS-396 (1-877-278-7396), and online at www.quickcenter.com. Tickets can also be purchased on the day of performance at the PepsiCo Theatre, but are subject to availability. The PepsiCo Theatre is located at 1073 North Benson Road, on the campus of Fairfield University, in Fairfield, CT. This production was made possible by the generous support of the Jamie A. Hulley Arts Foundation.

"The Independent Project offers a valuable opportunity to learn the ins and outs of putting on a play under 'real world' circumstances," said Fairfield University theatre major Michael Maio '13, who is directing this year's production. "The company returned early from winter break and labored tirelessly over the past three weeks to put together a show we are proud of that is completely our own."

Paula Vogel's "How I Learned to Drive" tells the story of Lil' Bit, a young woman reflecting on her life and the relationships she has had. It focuses on one relationship in particular, her relationship with an older man. Vogel's play challenges society's conception of what love is and what defines a healthy, stable connection. "This play makes us all look at our concept of love and stretch out minds," explains Maio, who chose it for this year's project. "It forces us to face some difficult subject matters, and leaves us to ponder why humans are the way they are, is it nature vs. nurture? The show itself is also witty, funny, and thought-provoking. The characters are larger-than-life, and all are challenges for our performers. We wanted a show that would challenge the audience and the entire company."

The cast and crew of Theater Fairfield's "How I Learned to Drive" includes: director Michael Maio (Seekonk, MA); scenic designer Joe Plouffe '13 (Brockton, MA); Maggie Greene '15 (Portland, OR), as Lil' Bit; Plouffe as Peck; Brendan Freeman '15 (Shrewsbury, MA), as Male Greek Chorus; Katie Premus '15 (Staten Island, NY), as Teenage Greek Chorus; and DiMenna-Nyselius reference librarian Elise Bochinski as Female Greek Chorus. Ms. Bochinski, the only non-student member of the company, returns to Theatre Fairfield after playing the Nurse in "Romeo & Juliet," and the Teacher/ Reporter in last year's Independent Project "Speech & Debate." The crew on this production includes, Kelan McDonnell '15 (Winfield, IL); Ryan Champlin '16 (Warwick, RI); Mary Corigliano '14 (Old Saybrook, CT); Logan Pratt '15 (Cohasset, MA); and Christina Barry '15 (Leominster, MA).

The Jamie A. Hulley Arts Foundation provides educational and career development opportunities in the arts. The Hulley Foundation accepts student proposals and has previously supplied funds for Theatre Fairfield's Independent Project.

Image: Rehearsing a scene from Theatre Fairfield's production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play "How I Learned to Drive" are Fairfield University's Joe Plouffe '13, as Peck, and Maggie Greene '15, as Lil' Bit (left-to-right).

Media Contact: Mike Horyczun, (203) 254-4000 ext. 2647, mhoryczun@fairfield.edu

Posted on January 17, 2013

Vol. 45, No. 153

View the original article here

Read More

Global literacy activist to speak at Fairfield University

Author/philanthropist John Wood, who left a lucrative executive career at Microsoft to found an award-winning nonprofit building schools, libraries and vital opportunities for children around the world, will speak at Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 12. His lecture, "Creating Room to Read: A Story of Hope in the Battle for Global Literacy," is free and open to the public.

Wood's appearance is an Open VISIONS Forum-Espresso event, part of Fairfield's signature lecture series, in conjunction with The Inspired Writer Series, a program of the MFA in Creative Writing. The University's Study Abroad Program is also a contributor to Wood's appearance. Community partners for this event are the Fairfield University Bookstore and Fairfield Public Library.

In 1999, at the age of 35, Wood left behind his nine-year career as a marketing executive for Microsoft to found Room to Read, one of the fastest-growing charities founded during the 20th century. The statistics surrounding its success are staggering. To date, the nonprofit has opened more than 1,500 schools and 14,600 libraries and distributed more than 12 million books for an estimated six million children in 10 countries across Asia and Africa. It has also provided educational scholarships for more than 19,000 girls. Based in San Francisco, the organization has regional offices around the world and a goal of promoting education, gender equality and literacy worldwide. Wood is its board co-chair.

In addition to his work with Room to Read, Wood is a respected author. His latest book, "Creating Room to Read: A Story of Hope in the Battle for Global Literacy," (Viking, 2012) details the makings of the nonprofit and dovetails on his first book, "Leaving Microsoft to Change the World." In the new book, he tells the stories of some of the children who've been helped through Room to Read, including youngsters in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, whose educational systems are still suffering the aftereffects of war; the Sri Lankan students whose schools and villages were swept away in the tsunami; and the Nepali children who had no books in a language they can read until Room to Read began publishing local-language titles - more than 700 of them.

In his latest book "Wood explains how he is achieving his goal of being 'one of many leaders of a global movement,' and he pays special tribute to Nelson Mandela's understanding of how encouraging 'a profound and deep love' for reading can be a transformative social force," according to Kirkus Reviews. "An absorbing personal account of a remarkable achievement."

Wood serves on the advisory board of the Clinton Global Initiative and he was the first-ever recipient of the Microsoft Alumni of the Year award bestowed by Bill and Melinda Gates. He is a five-time winner of Fast Company Magazine's Social Capitalist Award and a three-time speaker at the Clinton Global Initiative. He was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and is a Henry Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute. Barron's magazine has twice-named him as one of the world's 25 Most Effective Philanthropists. The San Francisco Chronicle described him as the "Andrew Carnegie of the developing world."

Wood teaches at the graduate level at the Wagner School of Public Policy at New York University and the Harvard Graduate School of Education. His degrees include an M.S. in business administration from the University of Colorado, an MBA from the Kellogg School of Northwestern University and three honorary Ph.Ds.

Media Contact: Meredith Guinness, (203) 254-4000, ext. 2950, mguinness@fairfield.edu

Posted on January 14, 2013

Vol. 45, No. 147

View the original article here

Read More

Stephanie Blythe, mezzo-soprano, and Warren Jones, piano, perform All American Song

8 p.m., Friday, February 1, 2013
Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts
Tickets: $55, $45, $35.

The great mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe steps off the opera stage to appear in an intimate duet recital with pianist Warren Jones in a program entitled "All American Song" at 8 p.m., Friday, February 1, 2013, at Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts. The performance is sponsored in part by Venü Magazine. A pre-performance discussion with Laura Nash, Fairfield University associate professor of music, takes place at 7:15 p.m. Tickets are: $55, $45, and $35.

The world-renowned Stephanie Blythe has starred on opera stages in the U.S. and Europe including the Metropolitan Opera, San Francisco Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Seattle Opera, Royal Opera House Covent Garden, and the Opera National de Paris. Ms. Blythe regularly appears in productions at the Metropolitan Opera, including in the Met's new production of Wagner's Ring Cycle, "Der Ring des Nibelungen." She also stars in this season's "Un Ballo in Maschera"and appeared in the New York Philharmonic Orchestra's presentation of "Carousel." Just prior to her performance at the Quick Center, she will have completed another starring role in the Metropolitan Opera's "Il Trovatore," as the gypsy Azucena.

As one of today's most popular and respected vocal superstars, Ms. Blythe is also a champion of the Great American Songbook. She tours nationally with her "All American Song" program plus a separate Kate Smith retrospective. Her "All American Song" recital at the Quick Center is part of a current tour that culminates later this year with an encore performance in Lincoln Center's American Songbook series and recital in Carnegie Hall's Stern Auditorium.

Ms. Blythe has premiered several song cycles written for her including "Twelve Poems of Emily Dickinson" by the late James Legg, which is featured on the Quick Center program; "Covered Wagon Woman" by Alan Smith, which was commissioned by the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and recorded with the ensemble (CMS Studio Recordings); and "Vignettes: Ellis Island," also by Alan Smith and featured in a special television program entitled "Vignettes: An Evening with Stephanie Blythe and Warren Jones."

The Quick Center program also includes music by Cole Porter: "Night And Day," "The Tale Of The Oyster," "You Do Something To Me"; Irving Berlin: "You Don't Want My Peaches," "What'll I Do?", "I Love A Piano"; the songwriting team of Buddy Desylva, Lew Brown, and Ray Henderson: "Button Up Your Overcoat," "The Thrill Is Gone," "You're the Cream In My Coffee," and "The Best Things In Life Are Free/Keep Your Sunny Side Up"; Samuel Barber: Three Songs, Op. 10, "Rain Has Fallen," "Sleep Now," "I Hear An Army"; and Edward Confrey: "Kitten On The Keys."

Her many operatic appearances include the title roles in "Carmen," "Samson et Dalila, "Orfeo ed Euridice," "L'Italiana in Algeri,""La Grande Duchesse," "Tancredi," "Mignon," and "Guilio Cesare"; Frugola, Principessa, and Zita in "Il Trittico," Fricka in both "Das Rheingold" and "Die Walküre," Waltraute in "Götterdämmerung," Azucena in "Il Trovatore," Ulrica in "Un Ballo in Maschera," Baba the Turk in "The Rake's Progress," Ježibaba in "Rusalka," Jocasta in "Oedipus Rex," Mere Marie in "Dialogues des Carmélites," Mistress Quickly in "Falstaff," Ino/Juno in "Semele," and Orlofsky in "Die Fledermaus."

Ms. Blythe has performed with some of the world's finest orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, Opera Orchestra of New York, Minnesota Orchestra, Halle Orchestra, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, the Ensemble Orchestre de Paris, and the Concertgerbouworkest. She has also appeared at the Tanglewood, Cincinnati May, and Ravinia festivals, and at the BBC Proms. The many conductors with whom she has worked include Harry Bicket, James Conlon, Charles Dutoit, Mark Elder, Christoph Eschenbach, James Levine, Fabio Luisi, Nicola Luisotti, Sir Charles Mackerras, John Nelson, Antonio Pappano, Mstislav Rostropovitch, Robert Spano, Patrick Summers, and Michael Tilson Thomas.

A frequent recitalist, Ms. Blythe has been presented in recital in New York City by Zankel Hall, Lincoln Center's Great Performers Series at Alice Tully Hall and its American Songbook Series at the Allen Room, the 92nd Street Y, Town Hall, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. She has also been presenter at the Supreme Court at the invitation of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in Washington, DC; the Cleveland Art Song Festival, the University Musical Society in Ann Arbor, the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society, Shriver Hall in Baltimore, and San Francisco Performances.

Her recordings of works by Mahler, Brahms, and Wagner and of arias by Handel and Bach are available on the Virgin Classics label. Ms. Blythe was named Musical America's Vocalist of the Year for 2009. Her other awards include the 2007 Opera News Award and the 1999 Richard Tucker Award.

Pianist Warren Jones, who was named as "Collaborative Pianist of the Year" for 2010 by the publication Musical America, is Principal Pianist for the California-based chamber music group Camerata Pacifica. He is a member of the faculty of Manhattan School of Music as well as the Music Academy of the West and received the "Achievement Award" for 2011 from the Music Teachers National Association of America, their highest honor. Three times he has been an invited guest to the White House to perform for state dinners. A graduate of New England Conservatory, he currently serves on its Board of Visitors and has been honored with the Doctor of Music degree from San Francisco Conservatory. His discography contains more than 25 recordings. His newest musical ventures include conducting, and he will return to the podium for performances of Mozart's "Die Zauberflöte" in 2013.

Tickets are available through the Quick Center Box Office: (203) 254-4010, or toll-free 1-877-ARTS-396 (1-877-278-7396).  Tickets can also be purchased online at www.quickcenter.com.

The Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts is located on the campus of Fairfield University at 1073 North Benson Road in Fairfield, Connecticut. Entrance to the Quick Center is through the Barlow Road gate at 200 Barlow Road. Free, secure parking is available. Access for people with disabilities is available throughout the Quick Center for audience members and performers. Hearing amplification devices are available upon request at the Box Office. Fairfield University is located off exit 22 of Interstate-95. For further information and directions, call (203) 254-4010 or 1-877-278-7396, or visit www.quickcenter.com.

Image: Stephanie Blythe, Photo Credit: Kobie van Rensburg.

Media Contact: Mike Horyczun, (203) 254-4000 ext. 2647, mhoryczun@fairfield.edu

Posted on January 07, 2013

Vol. 45, No. 144

View the original article here

Read More