The American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) recently announced that University of New Mexico Biology student Susan Christy Sanchez Monzon is one of the 10 recipients for its 5th annual ASPB Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program. Monzon's project is titled, “Activation of red form I algal Rubisco from Plocamium cartilagineum.” UNM Biology Professor David Hanson, an ASPB member, sponsored her.
“I’m so honored to be a recipient of the 2005 ASPB Summer Undergraduate Fellowship,” said Monzon. “This is a tremendous commitment that will allow me to expand my horizons in plant biology.”
The $3,000 fellowship will permit Monzon to devote full-time effort to a lab project for a 10-week period this coming summer. The award also includes $500 for lab supplies, a free membership in ASPB, and travel grant assistance for Monzon to attend the 2006 ASPB Plant Biology Meeting in Boston. With this undergraduate fellowship opportunity, ASPB offers students experiences to help them consider pursuing advanced degrees and careers in plant biology.
The ASPB SURF program was co-chaired by ASPB members Mark Brodl, Trinity University and Mary Williams, Harvey Mudd College. They agreed that this was the most difficult year ever to choose recipients from the many outstanding projects presented. A complete description of the SURF program and the project descriptions can be viewed at the ASPB Web site: http://www.aspb.org/education/undergrad.cfm.
ASPB, headquartered in Rockville, Maryland, was founded in 1924 as the American Society of Plant Physiologists. This professional society has a membership of nearly 6,000 plant scientists from the United States and more than 50 other nations. ASPB publishes two of the most widely cited plant science journals in the world: The Plant Cell and Plant Physiology.
Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821
The University of New Mexico Press and its authors have enjoyed the many awards and accolades they've received this season, and good news keeps coming.
The Wordcraft Circle of Native Writers has honored Cherokee author Deborah Duvall and her illustrator husband, Murv Jacob, for their Cherokee folktales in the Grandmother Stories Series. Jacob won the 2005 Award for Illustration for Rabbit Goes Duck Hunting and DuVall won the 2005 Award for Writing from the Wordcraft Circle for Rabbit and the Bears. The couple lives in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.
Albuquerque author Rudolfo Anaya has received special recognition from the judges of the 2005 Paterson Prize for Books for Young People for his holiday story, The Santero's Miracle. Every year, the Paterson Prize panel chooses five to ten books as worthy of honor and special recognition in the competition sponsored by The Poetry Center at Passiac County Community College.
Also, The Santero's Miracle was short-listed for the Américas Award for Children's and Young Adult Literature from the Consortium of Latin American Studies Programs as one of six books on their "Americas Commended List." The Américas Award is given in recognition of works of fiction, poetry, folklore, and picture books that portray Latin American life in the United States. The Santero's Miracle was among nine books chosen for commendation.
The Grandmother Stories series and books by Rudolfo Anaya are available at bookstores or directly from the University of New Mexico Press. To order, please call 800-249-7737 or visit www.unmpress.com.
Contact: Amanda Sutton, (505) 277-0655
A tour of University of New Mexico’s Spanish Pueblo Revival architecture will be conducted, Saturday, May 28, beginning at Hodgin Hall at 10 a.m. The focus of the tour will be UNM buildings that echo nearby Pueblo Indian villages.
Founded in 1889, UNM now occupies 600 acres along old Route 66 and is considered unique in architectural style. Tour highlights will include Hodgin Hall, the first building on campus, built in 1892.
Photo: Campus tour guide Joe McKinney
Joe McKinney will conduct the tour. Now retired, McKinney served as university planner at UNM for 36 years.
Water, hats, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
The tour is sponsored by the Friends of Coronado State Monument and there is no fee for members. Five dollars per person will be charged for non-members. Call Katherine at 867-6115 to register.
Contact: Greg Johnston, (505) 277-1816
The Board of Regents at the University of New Mexico has approved a series of new budget priorities to the Fiscal Year 2005-2006 budget that are intended to address priorities discussed during the President’s Budget Summit in April. They are scheduled to approve the UNM budget at their June meeting.
Student Priorities
The adjustments include $500,000 for Freshman Learning Experiences. That is an increase of $200,000 from the current allocation, and will go to expand course programs directed toward involving freshmen in small group activities. The purpose of the Freshman Learning Experiences program is to increase the number of freshmen who return to the university as sophomores.
The priorities allocate $550,000 for new faculty positions meant to decrease class size, and offer more sections of classes that are in great demand by students. Another $400,000 will go to supplemental instruction and advising. The amount of money available for merit based scholarships will be increased by $300,000. There will also be an increase of $100,000 for need-based aid for students, and an additional $100,000 set aside to increase the number of graduate assistants.
Administration/Faculty/Staff Priorities
In addition, these budget priorities set aside $125,000 for Commencement, and Freshman Family Day, and $175,000 for faculty promotions. There is a one time allocation of $675,000 to repair and renovate buildings, and $400,000 to increase the employer percentage of health benefit payments for staff members making less than $35,000. The regents also decided to set aside $165,000 to increase the salaries of the lowest paid employees to $8. an hour.
These budget priorities will be paid for by taking extra reserve funds from departments, and giving university departments less than the full I&G, research and public service allocations. The UNM Foundation will also contribute $300,000 to the budget adjustment line items.
The changes are scheduled to go into place on July 1st at the beginning of the fiscal year.
Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627
President Louis Caldera announced today that the University of New Mexico has changed its honorary degree policies in a way that will allow the university to award an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters to actor and humanitarian Ricardo Montalban without his having to travel to New Mexico.
Ricardo Montalban was recommended by the university’s faculty and president and approved by the regents to receive an honorary degree to have been awarded at the University’s May 14th Spring Commencement Ceremony. However, due to Mr. Montalban’s inability to attend the ceremony because of ill health he did not receive the award.
“Although the university’s long standing policy has been that honorary degrees are only awarded at commencement, and that the individual must be present to receive the degree, the unique circumstances of Mr. Montalban’s inability to travel due to ill health warrants an exception to that requirement,” said President Caldera.
Mr. Montalban’s inability to attend the ceremony became known only at the last minute; however, in the subsequent days, the university’s faculty, regents and president have reviewed the university’s policies and practices and explored the possibility of making an exception to the policy so that the degree could be awarded at a different time and place.
“ I appreciate the Faculty Honorary Degree Subcommittee and Graduate Degree Committee’s looking into these matters and their recommendation that the commencement attendance requirement be waived in emergencies,” said President Caldera. The change in policy allows for recipients to be awarded the degree in another forum within one year of the selection.
“We had not dealt with emergency situations such as this, where the recipient is unable, due to failing health, to attend the ceremony. We understand that Mr. Montalban is quite ill and may likely not be able to attend an academic event even if rescheduled for the fall semester,” said Claudia Isaac, chair of the Senate Graduate Committee and Honorary Degree Subcommittee. “In this exceptional situation it is very appropriate to honor him in California.”
Contact: Susan McKinsey, (505) 277-1989
Pam Hurd-Knief, chief development officer in the School of Architecture and Planning, has been named the 2005 recipient of the Staff as Students Manager/Supervisor Award. She will be presented with the award on Thursday, May 26 at 3 p.m. in SUB Lobo Room.
Given annually since 2001, the award recognizes a manager/supervisor who “demonstrates initiative in accommodating staff opportunities for education, training and certification and/or licenses; commitment to continued opportunities; and has creative and innovative ideas regarding access to educational, training and licensure/certification opportunities.”
Hurd-Knief was selected from the 16 nominations that were reviewed and scored by the Staff Council Rewards & Recognition committee.
Committee co-chair Theresa Everling, faculty recruitment and credentialing coordinator, Obstetrics and Gynecology Administration, said that Hurd-Knief scored highly. “The nominating form demonstrates that she supports subordinates in professional development and pushes supervisors on his behalf. Her efforts make the Hurd-Knief receives Staff as Students Manager/Supervisor Award entire department run better,” Everling said. Her committee co-chair is Kathy Meadows, faculty services assistant, Continuing Education.
John Miller, development specialist in the School of Architecture and Planning, nominated Hurd-Knief and noted her strong support in his education and training goals.
“Pam has supported my pursuit of a master’s degree in English-professional writing by allowing me to take the classes I needed when they were scheduled however it turned out.
“Pam has also encouraged me to attend a variety of job related workshops in order to expand my knowledge and professional experiences. She invites me as a guest to Association of Fundraising Professionals meetings if she thinks hearing a particular speaker will benefit me. She has pushed her superiors to include me in workshops or seminars that could benefit me professionally, and convinced them to approve a career ladder to promote me and position me for the next step toward a leadership position like hers. My peers at other schools and colleges have not received this kink of representation from their supervisors,” Miller wrote in the nomination.
Miller indicates how he benefited from the opportunities. “Not only has my pursuit of a master’s degree been encouraged and kept on track, but my professional education has received just as large a boost. My career ladder is complete, minus the paperwork, and she is grooming me to one day find my own development officer position. I learn not only by experience, but by education and training as well. My future as a fundraiser and as an educated human being looks brighter every day.”
Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920
Volunteers are needed for the 5th Annual Muthu Barry Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp, held Monday, June 6 through Friday, June 10, 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Valley High School. Each year the Carrie Tingley Hospital Foundation sponsors the camp.
Photo: Muthu Barry Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp
Volunteer opportunities are for a few hours, for a day or for the week. Activities include tennis, archery, cycling and other wheelchair sports. Teen-age volunteers, ages 14 and up, will be “buddies” for campers, and will assist instructors, serve lunches and participate in the camp activities. Adult volunteers will do similar activities plus direct some of the sports and assist with personal care needs of the campers.
The Carrie Tingley Hospital Foundation supports wheelchair sports programs in the community through the Arts and Athletics Beyond Limits. Programs include the Zia Hot Shots, a junior wheelchair basketball team and the Turbo Wheelers, a power wheelchair soccer team.
For more information, please contact Maggie at 264-1632 or by e-mail at ldybug0426@aol.com. Volunteer sign-up is also available on the Web site at: www.aablprograms.com.
Sensei Manji Inoue, a Japanese master artist and teacher, will visit the University of New Mexico June 2 as part of a 25-year relationship with a unique art education course. The Art Education Program at the UNM College of Education has taught the Arita method since 1980 and is the only major university in the U.S. to teach the ancient porcelain technique.
Photo: The Arita method of porcelain
Inoue, who is 75, is considered a National Living Treasure of Japan and is from Arita, on the island of Kyushu, where porcelain clay was discovered in Japan 400 years ago.
Instructor Kathryne Cyman says that her UNM students are introduced to the philosophy, aesthetic and process of creating Arita porcelain pottery. The creation of vessels of white porcelain is a demanding task, utilizing pure white clay and highly transparent glazes.
A current exhibit at the UNM Maxwell Museum, through June 4, shows the work of Inoue and UNM students and presents tools, videos and a historical context.
Inoue has sponsored visits by UNM students to Japan and has visited the university close to a dozen times. This year he will bring 30 guests to New Mexico including artists, journalists, civic and business leaders.
When working in porcelain, Inoue maintains that the artist should pursue beauty in form, while creating shapes that are true to oneself. “The important thing about ceramics is not their external appearance,” he says, “It is the heart and soul that go into creating them.”
Inoue will visit UNM June 2 to tour the Maxwell exhibit and show his continued support and interest in the Arita Methods course. At 10:30 a.m. he will meet with College of Education Dean Viola Florez to receive a special recognition. A luncheon will be held at the Student Union Building prior to a campus tour. Later in the day, Inoue is scheduled to meet with UNM President Louis Caldera and will attend a private reception at the Hibben Center.
Before returning to Japan, Inoue and his guests will travel to Santa Fe and Tucson, Ariz.
The UNM Staff Council has a new executive committee for 2005-06. Officers elected at the May meeting include: Sabra Basler, Department of Strategic Communications and Marketing, president; David Groth, Health Sciences Center Library, president-elect; Mimi Swanson, Human Resources Service Center, speaker; and Blanca Garcia, Extended University, treasurer.
Lisa McHale, Anderson Schools of Management, and Bettie Kaehele, Family Practice Center, will serve as precinct at-large reps. Steve Borbas, Facility Planning, and Kathy Meadows, Continuing Education, were elected grade representatives at-large.
In other business, councilors approved suggested revisions to UNM policy 2200 Reporting Misconduct and Retaliation. The council’s Employee Rights and Policy Review Committee proposes that an Inspector General’s Office be established within the Auditor’s Office to better protect employees who report suspected misconduct.
Councilor’s also passed a resolution thanking the Board of Regents for expressed support of work+life initiatives.
The Rewards and Recognition Committee shared plans for UNM Staff Week June 6-10 and the UNM Staff Picnic set for Saturday, June 11, at Isotopes Park. Purchase tickets for $3 at UNM ticket outlets while they last.
Outgoing president Steve Borbas presented an overview of his year in office and thanked the council’s dozen working committees. Borbas was the first council president to be extended a seat on the Board of Regents’ Academic Student Affairs Committee where he seized the opportunity to showcase committee accomplishments. The appointment is included in presidential duties Basler assumes in June.
Tim Gardner, a University of New Mexico School of Law student, was recently selected for the Equal Justice Works 2005 Summer Corps program. He is one of 250 first- and second-year students from 113 colleges selected for the program.
Participants will spend at least 300 hours at nonprofit organizations providing critically needed legal assistance to low-income or underserved communities in 39 states. Interns receive a $1,000 AmeriCorps education award voucher and gain first-hand experience in legal skills such as client intake, individual representation and legal research and writing .
Tim will serve as an intern with ENLACE Comunitario, a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs and promoting the rights of Spanish-speaking immigrants in the Albuquerque area, particularly victims of domestic violence.
Equal Justice Works was founded in 1986 by law students dedicated to building a just society by ensuring access to the legal system. Today, Equal Justice Works is a national leader in creating summer and postgraduate public interest opportunities for law students and lawyers, as well as in urging more public interest programming at law schools.
Sari Krosinsky, (505) 277-5813
Award-winning writer Tony Hillerman will kick off the summer lecture series “Voices of the Southwest” on Tuesday, June 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Student Union Ballroom on the University of New Mexico campus. He will read from his latest book “Skeleton Man,” present a talk and answer questions. He will also conduct a book signing at the end of the evening. The series is free to the public and will be broadcast live by KUNM radio.
This is the third consecutive year UNM has presented Albuquerque’s finest authors for the lecture series. The lecture series has been designated a Tricentennial event for the university. All lectures, with the exception of Hillerman’s will be presented on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in Anthropology 163 on the UNM Main Campus.
“Voices of the Southwest” speakers
June 14 - Albuquerque Journal columnist Jim Belshaw and collaborator Beth Corbin-Hsi, the wife of a deceased physician whose remarkable journal is changing the practice of medicine, will present “Closing the Chart: A Dying Physician Examines Family, Faith and Medicine.”
June 21 - Freelance journalist Pari Noskin Taichert, will present her debut novel “The Clovis Incident: A Mystery.” On the same program, noted anthropologist David E. Stuart will read from his Pulitzer entry novel “The Guaymas Chronicles: La Mandadera.”
June 28 – Judith Van Gieson, the nationally-known, award-winning writer will present “The Shadow of Venus,” a Claire Reynier mystery.
July 5 – Demetria Martinez, winner of the Western States Award for Fiction, presents her book “Mother Tongue.” Also presenting on July 5 is Sherry Robinson, journalist and freelance writer who will discuss her non-fiction book “Apache Voices: Their Stories of Survival As Told to Eve Ball.”
July 12 – David E. Stuart will read from his second volume “The Guaymas Chronicles: Zone of Tolerance” and Max Evans, the dean of contemporary southwestern writers and author of classics “The Hi-Lo Country” and “Rounders,” will present along with his biographer, Slim Randles, “Ol’ Max Evans: The First Thousand Years.”
For more information regarding the “Voices of the Southwest” lecture series, please contact The University of New Mexico’s “Summer in the Southwest” at (505) 277-4854 or visit at: www.summerinthesw.com.
Contact: Karen Wentworth (505) 277-5627
Approximately 300 of Albuquerque’s community leaders gathered at the city’s new Embassy Suites Hotel and Spa Saturday, May 21, to celebrate the progress on the new Barbara and Bill Richardson Pavilion addition to UNM Children’s Hospital.
In addition to donating ballroom space, food and beverages, the Embassy Suites contributed a $15,000 check toward completion of the new pavilion. Will Weckstein, president of John Q. Hammons Hotels kicked off the evening by presenting a check to University of New Mexico president Louis Caldera and University Hospital CEO Steve McKernan.
“This contribution will accomplish a great deal toward helping New Mexico’s kids,” said McKernan. “We are extremely grateful to the Embassy Suites and John Q. Hammons Hotels for this generous donation to Children’s Hospital.”
Hotel developer John Q. Hammons said, “We look forward to contributing to the needs of each community we serve, but UNM Children’s Hospital is particularly important to us. Any effort to help these special kids is something we want to be a part of here at Embassy Suites. We're very grateful to be involved with this event."
The 476,555 square foot Barbara and Bill Richardson Pavilion is scheduled for completion in the spring of 2007. The hospital needs to raise $29 million of the $234 million project, of which approximately $7 million will go toward technology and new equipment. UNM Children’s Hospital will show a brief presentation of the progress on the new addition as part of the evening’s festivities.
Contact: Jennifer Riordan, (505) 220-0702
UNM’s 2nd Annual Celebrating Staff Week runs June 6-11 and boasts a VIP-served pancake breakfast, a live outdoor concert, Isotopes baseball game with free food and fireworks and much more, said Karin Retskin, Staff Council administrator and celebration founder.
The council’s Rewards and Recognition Committee took on many of the tasks this year and, with Human Resources, is organizing the annual staff picnic, which will be held at a new venue – Isotopes Stadium. Tickets are $3 and include admission to the Saturday, June 11 game, fireworks, a commemorative baseball, hotdog or nachos, soft drink and popcorn. Only 3,000 tickets are available, on sale now at the UNM Bookstore or HSC and branch ticket outlets.
Most events are scheduled near the lunch hour with the exception of the picnic and a special breakfast – pancakes in the SUB served by UNM vice presidents and other VIPs.
Sponsors include Human Resources, offices of the vice presidents, Aramark Dining Services, New Mexico Educator’s Federal Credit Union, Albuquerque Breakfast Club-Lion’s Club, Student Health Center, UNM healthcare insurance vendors, United Blood Services and UNM Parking Services. Door prizes will be awarded, including a major prize announced at the game.
Schedule of Events:
Monday, June 6
· Pancake breakfast, SUB ballrooms, 7:30-9 a.m.
· UNM Staff as Artists, Masley Gallery, College of Education’s Travelstead Hall, reception from 4:30-6 p.m.; art show runs throughout week during the noon hour. Retiree Association will serve as greeters.
Tuesday, June 7
· UNM Staff Council celebrates 15-year anniversary of serving staff. Regular June meeting preceded by a luncheon for councilors and followed by Jim Davis Outstanding Staff Councilor Award presentation/reception.
Wednesday, June 8
· Book Swap, books from staff for staff. Nearly 5,000 books traded hands last year. New is a call for used eyeglasses to be distributed through area Lion’s Clubs. Books will also be collected for a new library in Ghana, West Africa. Staff who donate receive information about early entry to the swap, open to all staff noon to 2 p.m. in SUB Lobo Rooms A&B.
Thursday, June 9
· Health Focus Day, co~sponsored by Employee Health and Promotion Program and Student Health Center, includes blood drive and freebies from UNM’s healthcare providers. SUB Mall, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m..
Friday, June 10
· Walking tour for staff begins at 10 a.m. at Hodgin Hall, winds up at 11:30 a.m. near Student Health for a noontime concert by “Jasper” featuring Americana- roots-gumbo music…bring your lunch and save room for dessert.
Saturday, June 11
Let’s have a ball! First pitch tossed at 7:05 p.m., Isotopes Park, $3 in advance at all UNM ticket outlets.
Contact: Laurie Mellas Ramirez, (505) 277-5915
University of New Mexico President Louis Caldera has appointed Breda Bova, associate dean in the College of Education, as Senior Advisor to the President. This full-time position will be a minimum two-year commitment scheduled to begin July 1, 2005.
In this position, Bova will advise the President on policy and operational issues related to immediate and emerging academic issues at UNM.
She will serve as the President’s strategic liaison with faculty, staff, student governance groups and the community at large, and she will participate with the President and other senior officers in institutional planning, policy development and problem resolution. In addition, Bova will coordinate special projects on behalf of the President.
Bova retains her faculty status as a tenured professor in the College of Education. She will also retain her responsibilities as faculty representative to the NCAA.
Contact: Susan McKinsey, (505) 277-1989
The University of New Mexico Foundation has elected Bob Bovinette as the new chair of the Foundation Board, Don Chalmers as vice chair and Dorothy Rainosek, secretary. They join Michael Carroll, president of the UNM Foundation and vice president of Institutional Advancement, and David Harris, treasurer and executive vice president for Administration, as officers on the Board of Directors.
“We’re delighted to have people of this caliber serve on the UNM Foundation Board,” said Carroll. “They have been incredibly supportive of the University and are great citizens of the city and state. I look forward to working with them.”
Bovinette, who previously chaired the Foundation Board’s Investment Committee, retired in January 2004 as president and chief executive officer of the Common Fund, positions he held since 1996. The Common Fund is a nonprofit, membership consortium that manages the world’s largest pool of endowment and cash assets exclusively for universities, colleges and independent schools. It manages $17.5 billion for approximately 1,400 member schools and offers investment programs in a broad range of U.S. and foreign securities. Before joining the Fund, he was headmaster at Albuquerque Academy.
Bovinette is also active in the community, currently serving on the Bosque School’s Leadership Advisory Board and the Board and the Executive Committee of the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra. He has also served as chair of the Investment Committee of the Albuquerque Community Foundation, chair of the Credit Committee of the Bank of America New Mexico Board of Directors and as the secretary of the Board of Directors of the High Desert Investment Corporation.
He is a member of the UNM President’s Club and also supports the Lobo Booster Club and the Children’s Miracle Network.
Chalmers, a native of Tulsa, Okla., and the son of an auto parts storeowner, is president of Don Chalmers Ford. He also has several auxiliary automotive businesses including leasing and warranty insurance. In 1996, he came to Albuquerque and opened what would be his 18th auto dealership. Since then his dealership has consistently won the President’s Award from Ford, the company’s highest honor. In February 2001, Chalmers won a national award from Ford Motor Co., the “Heroes of the Planet” award for his work in the community.
Chalmers was vice chair of the New Mexico Commission on Higher Education and currently serves as co-chair of the Governance Committee on the Governor’s Task Force on New Mexico Higher Education. He is a member of numerous boards including United Way of Central New Mexico, serving as major gifts chair.
Other boards Chalmers serves on include: Albuquerque Economic Development; Albuquerque Community Foundation; Wells Fargo; Explora Science and Children's Museum; St. Joseph Healthcare Foundation; Quality New Mexico and many others.
He holds a bachelor of science degree in marketing from Oklahoma State University. Chalmers and his wife are members of the UNM Foundation’s Popejoy Society. He also supports the Children’s Hospital, Presidential Scholarship Program, UNM women’s golf team and the Lobo Booster Club as well as other athletic programs.
Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821
The impact of information technology on architecture is the focus of “Hybrid Environments,” an exhibit featured at the American Institute of Architecture Gallery, located in the UNM School of Architecture and Planning, 2414 Central Ave SE. The exhibit is open Monday - Thursday from noon to 5 p.m. through June 30.
Tim Castillo, assistant professor, School of Architecture and Planning, partnered with Rana Abu-Dayyeh on the exhibit. Based locally, Hybrid Environments is an experimental and multi-disciplinary design practice that currently involves speculative research and commissioned projects.
“We research what architecture will become because of information technology – cell phones, the Internet and PDAs. We are particularly interested in an emerging new hybrid typology generated by interactions formulated by digital information, infrastructure and the landscape,” he said.
Currently their work investigates a variety of scales ranging from architecture, urban design, multi-media environments and product design.
Among the projects exhibited is “Low Rider Museum.” “We look at the automobile, the low rider, culturally. There is distinctive object fascination and urban experience with the low rider. It represents hybrid because it is neither Mexican nor American, but Chicano. It is an example of counterculture because it goes against the sense of speed and velocity represented by the automobile,” Castillo said.
Castillo notes how the low rider redefines the town of Española. “Low riders cruise the town from one Sonic drive-in to the other at the opposite end of town,” he said.
Other exhibit experiences include technological conceptualizing of a drive through strip mall. “We have reconceived shopping online,” Castillo said. Another exhibit is for a car wash in London built with computer fabrication technology that allows architects to create buildings using tools such as laser cutters. “We control building materials by computer,” he said.
Castillo and Abu-Dayyeh have been published and exhibited nationally and internationally including the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Lausanne, Switzerland); Pavillon de l’Arsenal in Paris, France; Bienal of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil; University of Waterloo-Canada, University of Colorado, Texas Tech University, University of Utah, University of Colorado and the University of Texas-Arlington.
Contact: Car9olyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920
The University of New Mexico has selected London-based Galathea STS’s ENTA software as its total solution for its ticketing needs. The project will take advantage of integration between ENTA and ContribTrak; UNM’s chosen fundraising application as supplied by Envisage Software. Data will be transferred between each product in real-time, providing the fundraising and ticketing staff with the information that they need, when they need it.
“ENTA is the best ticketing software I’ve seen in my 26 years in the ticketing industry,” said Mark Koson, director of Ticketing Services for UNM. “Galathea’s ENTA product is outstanding and we are excited about the opportunity. In addition, the real-time interface between ENTA and Envisage’s ContribTrak software is an innovative, cutting edge solution to our ticketing/fundraising needs. We are looking forward to a long and successful international partnership with Galathea STS.”
ENTA will be used by UNM’s athletics and arts departments to manage all sales, including two arts subscription programs and several athletics season ticket programs including UNM’s five arts and four major athletics venues. UNM’s athletics and arts venues serve more than 600,000 people in Albuquerque and more than 1.8 million residents in the state of New Mexico.
“Although our first U.S. customer, The Ravinia Festival in Chicago, is already operating very successfully, the new account with the University of New Mexico signals our intention to officially launch ENTA in the United States and Canada,” said Richard Leggatt, managing director, Galathea STS. “ENTA is a powerful and flexible application, and in the hands of the University of New Mexico, more of ENTA will be used by a single customer than ever before.
“With its diverse mix of athletics and arts programming, the University of New Mexico will be a trailblazer for traditionally separated types of event sales, leading to an effective ticketing operation and improved customer services.”
Galathea STS manufactures and supports ENTA, the world-class ticketing and marketing software providing solutions for theatres, arts centers, city-wide networks, galleries, festivals and arenas. Designed by industry professionals its features include full sales solutions from seat plans and general admission, subscriptions, memberships, full web sales integration, marketing, data segregation, multi-currency, multi language, ease of use and simple setup procedures. Additional information on Galathea STS can be found at: www.galatheasts.com.
Athletic Venues
The Pit hosts the New Mexico Lobos Men’s and Women’s Basketball, as well as other live events and concerts. The Pit is a large arena, seating more than 18,000 people (including standing room), and is featured as 13th in Sports Illustrated's Top-20 Sports Venues of the Century (Wembley Stadium is 12th).
University Stadium seats over 40,000 spectators and hosts the New Mexico Lobos football team. This past season, Lobo football, Lobo men’s basketball and Lobo women’s basketball had a combined home record of 37 wins and only 4 losses.
Arts Venues
Popejoy Hall is a 2,000 seat theatre, presenting work including touring commercial productions, concerts, the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra and other live events. Rodey Theatre, Keller Hall and the Experimental Theatre provide a variety of different performance spaces ranging in size up to a maximum 450 seats.
The 23rd annual Bank of America/Larry Ahrens Golf Tournament, benefiting UNM’s Presidential Scholarship Program (PSP), will be held Friday, June 17, 2005 at the University of New Mexico Championship Golf Course. The tournament will have two shotgun starts beginning at 7:45 a.m. and also 1 p.m.
“Supporting the Presidential Scholarship Program, in my estimation is one of the most profoundly positive things you can do for the state of New Mexico for the future of our state and the for the talented students that grow up here,” said Larry Ahrens, tournament chair.
Over the past 22 years, the tournament has raised more than $900,000 and provides at least 50 Presidential Scholarships each year. The tournament is annually the single, biggest one-day fundraiser at UNM.
Since its inception, the PSP has offered tuition-free education to more than 2,400 scholars, made possible by more than $8.5 million in gifts from donors.
The tournament format consists of a 4-person Red-White-Blue scramble, limited to one "A" player (handicap of nine or less), and a combined handicap of each team of at least 43. Interested participants may form their own team, play as an individual or pair and be assigned to a team.
Team prizes will be awarded for first through fourth place teams, a.m. and p.m. flights, and first through third place prizes for women's teams. There will also be a number of skill and random drawing prizes. The entry fee of $125 per player includes green fees, cart, range balls, drinks, snacks, breakfast, lunch and a post-tournament awards dinner.
A number of sponsorship opportunities are also available at several levels including: prize or product sponsorships; Hole Sponsor ($300); Birdie Level sponsor ($1,250); Eagle Level sponsor ($2,250); and Leaderboard Level sponsor ($3,750).
For more information on sponsorships and benefits or to register, call (505) 277-5688. Interested participants may also register online at PSP Golf.
Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821
College of Education faculty members Thomas Keyes, Dept. of Teacher Education, and Lois Meyer, Dept. of Language, Literacy and Socio-cultural Studies, will be among the guests this week to discuss the topic “Many Children Left Behind,” on In Focus on KNME-TV, Channel 5. The program will broadcast Friday, May 20 at 8:30 p.m. and will repeat Sunday, May 22 at 7 a.m.
A number of New Mexico’s schools are failing and questions are being raised about the kind of students New Mexico schools are turning out. Are they being equipped with the critical thinking skills necessary for life after school or are we simply churning out a generation of test takers?
Lois Meyer conducts research and is writing a book on issues around bilingualism and associated problems related to No Child Left Behind. She recently spoke about her work while appearing as a guest on the national Al Franken radio show.
Meyer, Keyes, experts from public schools and the State Department of Education will address concerns about No Child Left Behind and what the future holds for New Mexico's children. Join UNM experts and others to learn more about this topic of concern.
In Focus is a television news magazine examining the events, topics and issues which shape people’s lives in the Southwest and covering issues that New Mexicans want to know more about. The producer of In Focus is Tony Dellaflora and the host is Kate Nelson, managing editor of the Albuquerque Tribune.
Contact: Greg Johnston, (505) 277-1816
The Board of Directors for the Science & Technology Corporation @ UNM will be returning for new four-year terms. The action was approved by the Board of Regents for the University of New Mexico on Friday.
Returning directors include President and Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce Terri L. Cole. She currently chairs the New Mexico Workforce Development Board, serves on the Governor's Higher Education Committee and the Governor's Citizens Task force for Healthcare Reform, the Eclipse Aviation Advisory Board, the State Family and Resource Act Advisory Committee, the Foundation for Open Government and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Committee.
Gregg L. Mayer, President of the Gregg L. Mayer & Company, Inc. a consulting firm in El Cerrito, California also returns to the board. He co-founded Berkeley Antibody Company Inc. and served as President of Vivigen, Inc. a clinical genetic testing company acquired by Genzyme Corporation.
William E. Schuler will return to his position as Vice Chair of the Science & Technology Corporation @ UNM. He has served in a variety of corporate management positions including founder of Systems Research Corporation, corporate vice-president for the military sciences and information systems sector of Science Applications International Corporation, and corporate vice-president of business development and planning for the BDM Corporation.
Academic members of the board include Dr. Pope L. Moseley, chairman of Internal Medicine at the UNM Health Sciences Center, Steven R. Brueck, professor of electrical and computer engineering and physics and astronomy and director of the Center for High Technology Materials at UNM, and Joseph L. Cecchi Dean of the School of Engineering and professor of chemical and nuclear engineering at UNM. Cecchi will also return as chairman of the board of directors for the corporation.
Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627
MOU signing May 19 at NNMC
The University of New Mexico and Northern New Mexico College are entering into an agreement for UNM to provide a Bachelor of University Studies and a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning in Española, beginning this fall. The course offerings will lead to selected bachelor's and master's degrees.
"The Bachelor of University Studies degree can be used by students who are close to graduating and can lead to enrollment in the NNMC Alternative Licensure program which prepares students with a baccalaureate degree to become teachers," said NNMC President José Griego. "And the Master's degree in Teaching and Learning can be used by both elementary and secondary teachers to complete the requirements of the three tiered licensure system in New Mexico to advance to level 2."
Representatives of the two institutions will sign a memorandum of understanding on Thursday, May 19, 2005, at 11 a.m., following the regular NNMC regents meeting. The signing will take place in the board room of the Montoya Administration Building on NNMC's Española campus, 921 Paseo de Oñate.
Representing UNM at the signing will be Regents President James R. Koch, Acting Provost Reed Way Dasenbrock and Vice Provost for Extended University Jerónimo Domínguez. Northern New Mexico College will be represented by President Griego and Regents President Michael Branch.
Future degree programs being discussed include bachelor's degrees in secondary teacher education and in civil engineering. UNM and NNMC will also explore specialized upper division and graduate-level education programs that respond to economic and social challenges facing the Española community.
UNM's Extended University will be responsible for course management and delivery. Most instruction will be provided by faculty traveling from UNM's main campus or by qualified faculty drawn from NNMC and the surrounding region. A combination of other course delivery approaches will also be used, drawing from current EU offerings, including 120+ online, 70+ instructional television and more than 60 correspondence courses.
"The mission of Extended University is to create access to UNM programs for individuals who, for whatever reason, cannot or choose not to attend the main campus," said Vice Provost Domínguez. "UNM's EU is successfully providing these opportunities in eight other locations. NNMC in Española will be the ninth. UNM is enthusiastic about this opportunity to serve the Española Valley."
UNM Extended University offers the BBA, BUS, Education and Nursing degree programs to approximately 4,000 students throughout the state.
Contact: Susan McKinsey, (505) 277-1989
Student participation in Saturday’s UNM commencement was a record high, said University Secretary Vivian Valencia. More than 1,100 graduates, including 40 golden grads marking one-half century as alumni, took part in the festivities.
President Louis Caldera conferred degrees upon main campus graduates. The class of 2005 earned 1,749 bachelor’s degrees, 552 master’s degrees, five post-master’s, 99 doctorates, 92 juris doctorates, 57 medical doctorates, 70 pharmacy doctorates and one education specialist – a projected total of 2,265 degrees.
Major General Alfred A. Valenzuela, United States Army retired, delivered the commencement address. Ranked among the "100 Most Influential Hispanics" by Hispanic Business magazine, Valenzuela is founder of an educational foundation and oversees several charter schools for at-risk children in San Antonio, Texas. With more than 33 years experience overseeing military forces, he is also a consultant for Fortune 500 companies.
Student speaker Benito Martinez III, who earned a bachelor’s of science in chemical engineering, shared his inspiring story with graduates, their families and friends. A young father and son of Mexican immigrants, Martinez attended UNM full-time, worked and served as a peer mentor. He co-founded the Hermanitos Mentoring Progrom at Highland High School in Albuquerque where he spent time each week fostering those with an interest in engineering. He interned with the USDA’s Agriculture Research Service in Philadelphia, General Motors and Intel Corporation. A peer mentor with El Centro de la Raza’s Amistades Program, Martinez was president of the student Hispanic Engineering and Science Organization.
Author/scientist David Brugge and author Leslie Marmon Silko received honorary degrees. President and Mrs. Caldera and the Alumni Association held a reception at University House following the ceremony.
Contact: Laurie Mellas, (505) 277-5915
R. Philip Eaton, MD, Executive Vice President for Health Sciences at the University of New Mexico, will retire on July 1. Eaton has served as the vice president of the UNM Health Sciences Center, which includes the School of Medicine, College of Pharmacy, College of Nursing and UNM Hospitals, for seven years.
After July 1, Eaton will continue his role as executive vice president on a part time basis while UNM conducts a national search for his replacement.
“I am extremely committed to the HSC and have a deep desire to follow through on some of the projects I have initiated,” he said.
Eaton is a nationally recognized researcher in endocrinology, with particular interest in diabetes. His prolific career includes numerous sponsored research projects--among them a collaboration with Sandia National Labs, which led to the invention and patent of the first implantable, programmable insulin pump and ongoing development of the glucose sensor. Eaton's breakthrough research has significantly improved the care and treatment of people with diabetes.
“I have been a faculty member here for 37 wonderful years,” said Eaton. “Serving as vice president of this extraordinary institution has been the most professionally fulfilling years of my career.” But, Eaton said, he has reached a point in his life where his family—including five grandchildren—and other interests are increasingly important for him to pursue.
In 1999, Eaton became the Vice President for Health Sciences at UNM. It has been in this role that he has demonstrated his extraordinary leadership capabilities. He has led the HSC through a period of tremendous growth with an increase in annual operating budget from $497.6 million in FY99 to $822.7 million in FY06, and an increase in research grants and contracts from $70 million in 1999 to $107 million in 2005.
During Eaton's tenure, the HSC has assumed a leadership role in developing a biomedical/biotechnological industry in the state in an effort to create economic development and employment opportunities for New Mexico. He has also focused his efforts toward building a world-class research program at the HSC and commercializing the intellectual property of its faculty.
With a vision of a campus that will support and encourage the creativity of teaching, learning and healing, Eaton's most enduring legacy may be the significant physical transformation of the HSC campus. During his vice presidency, six new facilities have been added to the HSC campus, with several others underway.
“The Health Sciences Center wouldn't be where it is today without Dr. Eaton's initiative,” said UNM Regents President Jamie Koch. “He has an extraordinary rapport with the legislature – is always a gentleman but always tells them what they need to hear. I'm glad he will stay on at least part-time, because he will be difficult to replace.”
“It has been an immense pleasure to work closely with Phil and we are delighted that he will stay on through the national search,” said UNM President Louis Caldera. “He will continue to play an integral role in some of the major construction projects on the HSC campus, including phase 2 of the UNM Cancer Research and Treatment Center and the Barbara and Bill Richardson Pavilion at UNM Hospital, as well the commercialization of intellectual property, the HSC Clinical Enterprise and the UNM Sculpture Garden of Healing.”
To ensure smooth operations during this transition, Paul Roth, Dean, UNM School of Medicine, Steve McKernan, CEO of UNM Hospitals, and Paul Kirk, Associate Vice President for Clinical Integration will work with Eaton on clinical activities, while John Pieper, Dean, UNM College of Pharmacy, will assume an additional interim role as deputy vice president for non-clinical activities.
“I am very proud of the work the HSC's faculty, staff and students have accomplished during my tenure,” he said. “I look forward to continuing my leadership during this transition and remaining an active member of the HSC community well into the future.”
Accomplishments of R. Philip Eaton, MD — 37 Years of Service to the People of New Mexico
R. Philip Eaton joined the faculty at the UNM Health Sciences Center in 1968. Over the past 37 years, he has had an enormous impact on the HSC, UNM and the state of New Mexico.
As a faculty member
~ Eaton became the first Chief of the Division of Endocrinology in 1968 and was the director until 1999.
~ In 1976, Eaton wrote the first NIH grant for the establishment of the General Clinical Research Center, which has been operating now for 29 years. He was the director of the GCRC for 9 years.
~ In 1979, Eaton was the Annual Research Lecturer of the University of New Mexico Faculty
~ In 1981, Eaton received the UNM Regents Meritorious Service Medal
~ In 1990, Eaton received a patent for the “Implanted Insulin Pump” which he developed in collaboration with scientists from Sandia National Laboratories and UNM, and first Human Implantation of the Bionic Pancreas.
Eaton was selected as the UNM School of Medicine's first Associate Dean for Research in 1996.
In a leadership role
In 1999, Eaton became the Vice President for Health Sciences at UNM. It has been in this role that Eaton has demonstrated his extraordinary leadership capabilities—
• Under Eaton's leadership, a strategic management model— which became the HSC's strategic planning blueprint—was developed. This 20-year strategic vision emphasized the HSC's dedication to programs and the future by identifying the four mission areas of education, patient care, research and partnerships. Eaton's focus on transforming the “HSC experience” for students, staff, faculty, patients and partners has been a key element in the HSC's strategic direction.
• Eaton has led the HSC through a period of tremendous growth—
~ Increase in annual operating budget from $497.6 million in FY99 to $822.7 million in FY06.
~ Increase in research grants and contracts from $70 million in 1999 to $107 million in 2005.
• During Eaton's tenure, the HSC has assumed a leadership role in developing a biomedical/biotechnological industry in the state in an effort to create economic development and employment opportunities for New Mexico.
• Eaton's personal commitment to a diverse workplace has been evident throughout his tenure as Vice President for Health Sciences. His support of diversity initiatives such as the HSC STAR Council and the Pathways to Success staff mentorship program have had a significant impact on the recruitment and retention of Hispanic, Asian, African American and Indian staff and faculty.
• Eaton's commitment to developing local, regional, and national partnerships has enabled the HSC to fulfill its mission and address New Mexico's important questions in health care through education, patient care and research—
~ Built an extremely positive and beneficial relationship with state and federal legislators, resulting in extraordinary support and funding
~ Established and maintained strong partnerships with other health care facilities across the state to enhance the level of care for all New Mexicans
~ Developed important collaborations with other research and academic institutions around the country
• Eaton has led the HSC in its efforts to build a world-class research program and commercialize the intellectual property of its faculty—
~ Served as a member of the board for the Science and Technology Corporation at UNM
~ Established MedCommNet to facilitate and promote collaboration between scientists at the HSC and the biomedical industry
~ Created the UNM HSC Biomedical Corridor
~ Served on the Board of the MIND Instittute
• Eaton has been a champion of improving communication at the HSC. As Vice President for Health Sciences, Eaton guided the development of a comprehensive communication effort to solidify the HSC's culture and instill confidence in the future. Eaton's efforts include a variety of communication tools—
~ Alliances magazine, an award winning annual publication
~ HSCTV Network, a monthly in-house video program (launched 6/2005)
~ Research for the 21 st Century, a biennial brochure on HSC research
~ Education and Patient Care for the 21 st Century, a biennial brochure
~ HSC Twenty-Year Vision, an annual publication that outlines the HSC's strategic operational goals
~ From the Desk of the VP, a direct communication to the HSC community sent via email 8-12 times per year.
~ HSC CommuniTIES, a regionally-focused, annual newsletter mailed to community and civic leaders around the state
~ HSC Web Page, which receives more than 15 million hits every year
• The physical appearance of the HSC has undergone a significant transformation under Eaton's leadership. With a vision of a campus that will support and encourage the creativity of teaching, learning and healing, Eaton has driven this transformation—
~ Sculpture Garden of Healing (Initiated 2003)
~ Memorial Garden Walk (Initiated 2005)
~ Cancer Research Building (Completed in 1999)
~ Outpatient Surgery and Imaging Services (Completed 2003)
~ Research Incubator Building (Completed 2004)
~ Pete and Nancy Domenici Hall, Neurosciences Building, (Completed 2005)
~ UNMH Barbara and Bill Richardson Pavilion (Groundbreaking 2005)
~ UNM Health Education Building (Groundbreaking 2005)
• In an effort to establish long-term fiscal stability while providing access to health care for all New Mexicans, Eaton guided the creation of the HSC Clinical Enterprise—
• Create a stable financial environment that will support planned growth, such as the expansion of UNM Hospital and will also allow the School of Medicine to grow and develop its programs to support the expanded clinical capacity, while simultaneously enhancing its strengths in education and research to enable higher levels of patient care and doctor and hospital staff satisfaction.
~ Change the HSC's administrative structure to include Associate Vice President for Clinical Integration (Dr. Paul Kirk)
• Identify and leverage the strengths of key “signature programs” in teaching, research, patient care and partnership—
~ Cancer Research and Treatment with NCI designation as Comprehensive Cancer Center
~ Infectious disease and biodefense
~ Neurosciences program, emanating from the hub of Domenici Hall. Emphasis on stroke, schizophrenia, autism, traumatic brain injury and depression diagnosis, treatment, training and research.
~ Cyclotron-based nuclear pharmacy program
~ Telemedicine, and its evolution into a health care delivery model via Hepatitis C Network and Project ECHO.
~ “Infotechnica” initiative at the HSC Library and Informatics Center to establish a full-service academic medical library.
~ BA/MD Combined Degree Program to provide health education opportunities to students from medically underserved areas and to encourage health care professions in students who lack role models and encouragement.
Melissa Bokovoy, associate professor of history and regents’ lecturer, has been chosen as one of two dozen scholars who will be in residence for the 2005-2006 academic year at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. The center supports research in the social sciences and humanities.
An internationally recognized expert on 20th century Yugoslavia, Bokovoy will join scholars and academics from a wide variety of backgrounds and countries. Residential fellows are chosen through an international competition and upon their award are resident at the center.
Fellows conduct research and write in their areas of interest, while interacting with policymakers in Washington and Wilson Center Public Policy Scholars and Senior Scholars. While at the center, Bokovoy will continue the research and writing on her manuscript, “Memory and Mourning in Serbia and Croatia, 1918-1941.”
Only the second UNM history faculty member to be awarded this fellowship, Bokovoy follows her predecessor, Stephen Kramer, also a modern Europeanist in the UNM History Department, as a Wilson Fellow.
“The most exciting part of this fellowship is the opportunity to be in constant
dialogue with diplomats, scholars and policymakers who have real impact on decisions being made about the U.S.’s role in the world. Every day the center sponsors events ranging from topics on Islam, gender and reproductive health to panel discussions on the European Union’s possible expansion into the Balkans. The hardest decision I will have to make is which ones to attend and which ones to miss so I can get my research and writing done,” Bokovoy said.
Her current research is a historical study of the politics of commemoration in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia between 1918 and 1941. She examines how the Serbs and the Croats, individually and collectively, mourned, remembered and commemorated those who lost their lives in the Balkan Wars and World War I and how the resulting cultures of commemoration and distinct historical understandings of the wars clashed in the period leading up to World War II.
In her research, she travels past a number of “sites of memory, sites of mourning,” the sites being the physical, emotional and artistic artifacts of those who survived the war and found themselves in the new multinational Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenians in December 1918.
Sites of memory, such as war cemeteries and memorials, museums and their display, holidays forms of popular culture and personal remembrances, are viewed by the Kingdom’s new elites as potential battlegrounds for the shaping, forging and reworking of political, national and social identities from 1918-1941.
“At the beginning of my fellowship at the Wilson Center, I will complete my research at the Library of Congress. A necessary part of this research is to read and analyze interwar elementary and high school textbooks and educational journals and memoirs from the soldiers and officers penned after the war, and an important photographic album, War Album (Ratni Album). The album is a compilation of more than 2,000 photographs from World War I in the south Slavic territories. The photos were originally displayed in Paris in 1917 and published in Serbia in 1925.
“The materials I have selected are quite specific because of their unavailability in the United States except for the Library of Congress, thus residence in the Washington area is a necessity. Finally, the south Slavic reference materials at the Library of Congress are plentiful and having such reference books at one's fingertips is invaluable for any scholar writing a historical monograph.
I anticipate that a nine-month residential fellowship at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars will help me complete a draft of the proposed historical monograph as well as write several journal articles from this research to be submitted to “The Journal of Modern History” and “Slavic Review.” I intend to complete work on the manuscript during summer 2006, immediately after my stay at the Center, and submit the manuscript for publication in fall 2006.
Established by an act of Congress in 1968, the Wilson Center is our nation’s official living memorial to President Woodrow Wilson. As both a distinguished scholar, the only American President with a Ph.D., and a national leader, Wilson felt strongly that the scholar and the policymaker were “engaged in a common enterprise.”
Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920
The University of New Mexico School of Architecture and Planning hosts an exhibit of student work at the gallery located at 516 Central SW. The exhibit opening is Friday, May 13 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The exhibit, coordinated by Gabriella Gutierrez, associate dean, with help from various faculty, features final masters projects as well as selected undergraduate studio and coursework.
“Featured in the exhibit are architectural design projects including a high-rise tower for downtown Albuquerque as well as explorations in theoretical architectural exploration. A range of projects in community and regional planning and landscape architecture are also included,” Gutierrez said.
The school is providing space downtown to exhibit the work. “We are an urban campus and we want students and the general public to come downtown to see the quality of work being produced in the School of Architecture and Planning,” said Joni Palmer, visiting assistant professor.
The school’s convocation takes place at the SUB on Friday, May 13, at 7:30 p.m., after which the exhibit will reopen until 10 p.m.
On Saturday, May 14, the exhibit is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Sunday, May 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“This is a limited opportunity to see and celebrate the public exhibition of student work,” Gutierrez said.
Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920
Answers to the questions asked at the April 29 'LINK Campus Update' are now available and may be accessed at: LINK Campus Update.
"We at Project LINK want to thank everybody who participated in this event and for the thoughtful questions that were asked," Project LINK Coordinator Fred Youberg said. "We also want to thank President Louis Caldera, Interim Provost Reed Dasenbrock, Chief Information Officer Bill Adkins and all of the other project sponsors, senior executives as well as the LINK Project Directors and their staffs for their participation and support of this event."
The LINK Campus Update also was provided to the Health Sciences Center via a live webcast and to the UNM branch campuses via a live satellite uplink.
Youberg said Project LINK staff will work on developing "new and effective ways of communicating with all stakeholders. The questions that were asked clearly indicate that we need to work harder at providing better and more timely information to the people who need it as we move forward with Finance and the other LINK implementation projects."
Researchers at the University of New Mexico have discovered the first physical evidence of a river otter not seen in New Mexico in more than 50 years, according to a paper released recently by International Union for the Conservation of Nature Otter Special Group Bulletin.
The Southwestern river otter, once a thriving subspecies across the state of New Mexico and the Southwestern U.S., is considered one of the most endangered mammals in North America and arguably the world says UNM Research Associate Professor Paul Polechla. The last time a documented otter specimen was collected in New Mexico was in 1953 when a state wildlife officer captured one on the Gila River in southwestern New Mexico.
Polechla and a team of researchers, including New Mexico State Park Rangers Aubony Burns, a former UNM Research Technician, and Scott Rist discovered three presumptive river otter (Lontra canadensis) scats or feces. The scat samples, two new and one old, were found Nov. 3, 2004, at Navajo Lake State Park in northwest New Mexico.
They were on a small spit of dried and cold mud, in an area not conducive to receiving fresh tracks. The scats contained remnants of crayfish exoskeleton, fish bones and scales. A number of other indicators in and around the site area, including birds such as the great blue heron, merganser, Canada goose and gulls were also observed. These species are considered good indicators of quality otter habitat says Polechla.
Although river otters weren’t seen and no tracks were found due to the terrain of the area, the evidence is solid. Kristin Moore, a UNM undergrad, and Jerry Dragoo, a research assistant professor in UNM’s biology department, performed a DNA analysis to confirm or refute the field identification. DNA was extracted from the three samples and one negative control was performed following established standards. Two of the three scats provided enough quantity and quality of DNA for positive identification as that of river otter. Additional research is underway for subspecies identification.
“This study was an innovative way of combining the time honored art of reading signs with the new science of DNA analysis,” said Polechla, the lead author in a paper recently released on the discovery. “What’s more is we didn’t kill an otter to make the determination. The question now is where else might they occur?
“Until you do a thorough survey of available habitat, you really don’t know what’s out there. Similarly, an Ivory billed woodpecker, was discovered in Arkansas recently. Both are wetland dwellers that were thought to be extinct until thorough studies were performed and they were documented. We need to survey the state’s waterways thoroughly for otters.”
Polechla says that only about five percent of the river miles and adjacent waterways have been properly surveyed in New Mexico. He added that very little of the waters in adjacent states have been surveyed as well.
The paper adds that recent plans to translocate otters may be premature in New Mexico and the Southwestern U.S. and northern Mexico until the majority of river miles, including shoreline of habitat is surveyed, by biologists experienced in tracking otters and other New Mexican fauna during seasonal peaks.
In addition, the potential habitat should also be surveyed prior to any otter restoration plans in a particular watershed, which would involve a field assessment of current suitability of habitat and the removal of factors that contributed to the decline of the population.
Decline of otters in other areas of North America have been attributed to water pollution, excessive wetland development, over trapping, and intensive water use. Reasons for the previous decline of otters in New Mexico in particular is speculative.
“Just like for humans, a healthy riparian and watershed environment is essential for survival,” said Polechla, who has studied river otters for more than 20 years with a concentration in the Southwest United States the past 10 years. “Perennial streams and rivers are required. The bottom line is otters need to have clean water, a minimum or steady stream flow, and adequate food supply and cover.”
There are six other different river otter subspecies in North America, some of which have been indiscriminately stocked into the wild in the Southwest. Otters vary in size, but generally grow to about four feet long weighing approximately 25 pounds. River otters spend part of the time on land and part in the water. Otters use the river to hunt and travel. Unlike land animals, otters follow drainages, which is one of the reasons why Polechla feels waterways hold the clues of otter presence.
Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821
The Science & Technology Corporation @ UNM is celebrating 10 years of working to commercialize research at the University of New Mexico by honoring the newest patent holders at the institution. In 2004, 15 faculty members, some working in teams were awarded patents. The patent holders came from the Center for High Technology Materials, from the Health Sciences Center and from several departments on campus.
President and CEO of the Corporation Lisa Kuuttila said, “STC recognizes the substantial amount of effort these faculty have invested in the process of obtaining a patent and we thank them for their efforts. We are pleased that three of the nine patents issued this year have already been licensed to New Mexico companies.”
Acting Provost Reed Dasenbrock said, “The work of these talented faculty is part of what makes UNM an exciting and creative place to be. I am delighted to see growing collaboration between faculty and STC in the vital area of technology transfer and commercialization of intellectual property.”
Patent Holders
Honorees include Plamen Atanassov, assistant professor of Chemical and Nuclear Engineering and Gabriel P. Lopez, associate professor and Regent’s lecturer in Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, who were granted a patent in the area of Stimuli-Responsive Hybrid Materials Containing Molecular Actuators and Their Applications.
Distinguished National Laboratory Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering C. Jeffrey Brinker and Hongyou Fan, adjunct professor at the Department of Chemical and Nuclear Engineering were granted a patent in the area of Photo-Definable Self-Assembled Materials.
Professor of Physics and Electrical Engineering, Jean-Claude M. Diels was granted a patent for a Fourier Moiré Wavefront Sensor.
Stephen D. Hersee, professor of electrical and computer engineering was granted a patent in the area of Non-Planer Micro-Optical Structures.
Research Professor of Chemical and Nuclear Engineering, William J. Kroenke and Robert T. Paine, professor of chemistry were granted a patent in the area of
Organoboron Route and Process for Preparation of Boron Nitride.
Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Luke F. Lester, Associate Dean for Research and Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Kevin J. Malloy, and Andreas Stintz, research assistant professor at the Center for High Technology Materials were granted a patent for a Quantum Dot Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser.
Chairman of Internal Medicine, Pope L. Moseley and Senior Research Scientist for the Department of Internal Medicine at UNM Health Sciences Center, Erik S. Wallen were granted a patent in the area of Purified Heat Shock Protein Complexes.
Wilmer L. Sibbitt, Jr., professor in the Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine at the UNM Health Sciences Center was granted a patent in the area of Biochemical Markers of Brain Function.
Assistant Professor at the Department of Emergency Medicine at the UNM Health Sciences Center Sam H. Slishman was granted a patent for a Traction Splint.
As an indication of the collaborative nature of the research, many of the patents were granted to teams of researchers from inside the university and outside public and private researchers.
Chairman of the STC Board of Directors, Joe Cecchi says, “STC has catalyzed a profound transformation of UNM into a community that understands and values invention and commercialization as integral and exciting components of our vital academic climate and public responsibility.”
Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627
The University of New Mexico School of Architecture and Planning offers the 2005 Southwest Summer Institute in historic preservation and regionalism. The first time this program has been offered, its aim is to enhance skills for both students and community members interested or involved in cultural resource management.
Three courses are offered, starting with “Heritage Corridors: Learning from Route 66,” June 6-10, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The second, “Preservation Law: A Practical Tool Kit,” is scheduled for June 13-17, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while the final course, “Industrial Heritage: Reuse of the Albuquerque AT&SF Railway Shops” will take place June 20-24, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
All courses satisfy requirements in the school’s graduate certificate program in historic preservation and regionalism.
“The graduate certificate program provides students and professionals in preservation, design, planning, cultural-resource management and even the general public interested in expanding their knowledge, skills and understanding how to conserve our cultural inheritance,” said Chris Wilson, certificate program director and JB Jackson Professor of Cultural Landscape Studies.
“The certificate program integrates proven historic preservation techniques with contemporary planning and design to conserve architectural and cultural heritage while fostering economic development,” said Chester Liebs, adjunct professor, UNM School of Architecture and Planning.
Liebs, one of the world’s foremost historic preservationists, developed and ran a summer institute at the University of Vermont for 20 years. Following his retirement, he taught cultural heritage conservation in Tokyo for five years before moving to Santa Fe two years ago.
Liebs, author of “Main Street to Miracle Mile: American Roadside Architecture,” is co-teaching heritage corridors with Michael Romero Taylor, manager of the National Park Service’s Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program.
“The course focuses on the various initiatives used to conserve the rights of way, structures, traditions and historical memory Route 66, the ‘great mother road,’ as a case study for conserving similar corridors throughout the country,” Liebs said. Field trips will highlight the National Park Service’s efforts to conserve Route 66.
The preservation law course is co-taught by Katherine Slick, New Mexico state historic preservation officer, and John Fowler, executive director of the president’s advisory council on historic preservation.
The course is designed for professional cultural resource management specialists, preservation-agency staff as well as state representatives of preservation organizations.
“This course provides a critical piece in preserving our intangible heritage with the range of legal topics including federal processes, local design review ordinances and emerging issues such as tribal concerns and private property rights,” Liebs said.
Eric DeLony, retired chief of the National Park Service’s Historic American Engineering Record, will teach the industrial heritage course. In addition to understanding the former AT&SF railway shops, the course will include state-of-the-art documentation techniques, an exploration of National Historic Landmark eligibility as well as adaptive reuses.
For more information on the Summer Institute, visit http://www.unm.edu/~hprinst
Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920
James L. Thorson, emeritus professor of English, and Connie Capers Thorson, professor emerita of University Libraries, have both received Fulbright teaching awards for the 2005-06 academic year. Jim will teach American literature and culture at the Belarusian State University for Linguistics, while Connie will teach library science courses at the Belarusian State University of Culture and Arts.
Both institutions are located in Minsk, the Belarus capitol.
Jim was awarded his first Fulbright in 1971-72 and taught English and American literature in Skopje, Yugoslavia. He received Fulbright grants for a year in Muenster in Northern Germany and in Halle, in the former East Germany.
The Fulbright Scholar Program originated with legislation introduced by Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas in 1946. It recognizes the importance of faculty and student exchange for fostering understanding and peace globally. Some 144 countries now participate with the United States in the program.
Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920
The convocation speaker for the School of Law’s Class of 2005 is Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano.
Born in New York City and raised in Albuquerque, she is a Sandia High School graduate. Napolitano attended Santa Clara University and is one of New Mexico's first Truman scholars. After graduating from the University of Virginia Law School, she moved to Phoenix, Ariz., to work as a private attorney.
U.S. President Bill Clinton nominated Napolitano to serve as U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona in 1993. In 1998, she was elected state attorney general, the first woman to hold the position. Napolitano distinguished herself as a tireless advocate for children and women, senior citizens and the environment.
Napolitano was elected Arizona's 21st Governor in 2002, and quickly earned the reputation of “education governor.” She led the fight to secure funding for voluntary full-day kindergarten, and launched an initiative that delivers a free book to every first grade student in Arizona at no cost to taxpayers.
A free event designed to provide awareness about cancer clinical trials focused on breast cancer among Hispanic/Latina women is scheduled for Saturday, May 21 in Albuquerque. “Hispanic/Latina Needs and Breast Cancer Trials: A Community Cultural Awareness Seminar” will feature national and local cancer experts and oncologists discussing why it is important to participate in breast cancer studies. It is co-sponsored by the Comadre a Comadre Project at the University of New Mexico.
The workshop will be held from 8:30 a.m. to noon, at MCM Eleganté, 2020 Menaul Blvd, NE. Free breakfast and refreshments will be served. Childcare will be provided for children two years old and older. To register for the event call 462-3939.
Comadre A Comadre is a one-on-one peer support program housed in the UNM College of Education. It provides support, resources and referrals to newly diagnosed Hispanic women with breast cancer. The project trains and recruits “comadres” who are breast cancer survivors to meet and assist patients at medical appointments and to serve as a liaison between the patient and medical providers.
The New Mexico affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation awarded Elba L. Saavedra, assistant professor for research at the College of Education, nearly $50,000 to administer Comadre A Comadre. The project is housed in the Physical Performance and Development health education program. It recruits and trains peer counselors and in the next year will work to develop a bilingual newsletter about breast health and breast cancer.
Comadre A Comadre was featured recently in the national magazine Latina Style. For information about the project, contact Elba Saavedra at 277-3243.
Contact:Greg Johnston, (505) 277-1816
University of New Mexico senior Qiao Liang has won the highly competitive Merage Foundation for the American Dream Fellowship. She is one of only 14 recipients nationwide and will be presented the $20,000 award at a ceremony in California in June. Liang, who majored in Mathematics, will receive her bachelor’s degree summa cum laude May 14.
She is a tutor in Chinese and math through UNM’s Center for Academic Program Support. Liang plans to use her fellowship for research when she enters graduate studies in applied mathematics at UNM in the summer. She will also teach math during the summer session.
“I can’t think of a better person to represent our university and I’m looking forward to following her career at UNM and well into the future,” said Amy Wolhert, UNM associate provost.
Liang, who is 24, emigrated to the U.S. when she was 17. She says she was the only Chinese student at Cibola High School in Albuquerque. She attended UNM on the Lottery Scholarship and became a citizen in 2004.
After considering majors in architecture, business and computational math, Liang concentrated her studies on mathematical biology. She says her decision was influenced by the SARS disease outbreak in China. “I was worried by friends and family in China who were taken to the hospital. If I can become a good mathematical biologist, I can design mathematical models to help determine the most efficient way to reduce the risk of disease,” Liang said.
The Merage Foundation is located at MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It provides expanded opportunities for immigrants and encourages Americans to recognize and celebrate the contributions of immigrants.
Contact: Greg Johnston, (505) 277-1816.
Brugge and Silko to receive honorary degrees
Major General Alfred A. Valenzuela, United States Army retired, will deliver the commencement address at the University of New Mexico's spring commencement Saturday, May 14, at 9 a.m. in University Arena.
Valenzuela is ranked among the "100 Most Influential Hispanics" by Hispanic Business magazine. Founder of an educational foundation, he oversees several charter schools for at-risk children in San Antonio, Texas. He also serves on the board of directors for the Cuban American National Council for Education. He has more than 33 years experience overseeing military forces and is a consultant for Fortune 500 companies.
Author/scientist David Brugge and author Leslie Marmon Silko will receive honorary degrees at the ceremony.
UNM President Louis Caldera will confer a projected total of 2,625 degrees upon UNM main campus graduates – 1,749 bachelor's degrees, 552 master's degrees, five post-master's degrees, 99 doctorates, 92 juris doctorates, 57 medical doctorates, 70 pharmacy doctorates and one education specialist.
UNM Board of Regents President James Koch, administrators, deans, faculty and staff are among the platform group. Richard W. Holder, deputy provost, is master of ceremonies, and Vivian Valencia, University Secretary, chief marshal.
Benito Martinez III, graduating with a bachelor's of science in chemical engineering, is the student speaker. A peer mentor with the Amistades Program, Martinez was president of the student's Hispanic Engineering and Science Organization.
The University Band, conducted by Eric Rombach-Kendall will play a selection of music for the ceremony's prelude and processional. Cody Wesner will sing the national anthem and alma mater. F. Chris Garcia, former UNM president, will recognize honors graduates and award the Tom L. Popejoy Dissertation Prize to Karmen Lenz, English, for “Images of Psychic Landscape in the Meters of King Alfred's ‘Book of Consolation.'”
Following the ceremony, the UNM Alumni Association, in conjunction with President and Mrs. Louis Caldera, invite graduates, their family and friends, to a reception on the University House lawn from 1 to 3 p.m.
The association will hold an open house for graduating seniors Monday – Friday, May 9-13, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Hodgin Hall.
Convocation ceremonies will be held at departments and colleges May 13-14.
Honorary Degree Recipients
David Brugge, Honorary Doctor of Letters
David Brugge, class of 1950, is a pillar in Southwestern studies and a legend in anthropological circles. As author, scientist, curator, researcher and consultant, he has contributed to the body of knowledge on anthropology, archaeology, material culture, land use, rock art, ethnobotany, linguistics, intercultural dynamics, repatriation, bibliography and more. A prolific scholar, he has coauthored with every major Southwestern archeologist during the past half century.
Known internationally for books on the ethnohistory of the Chaco Navajo, Brugge's literature is focused on the material culture of peoples of the Southwest. Work with the Navajo/Diné led to complex studies that influenced the thinking and research of others, in terms of both Navajo studies and intercultural relations. He is co-founder of the Navajo Studies Conference, a multidisciplinary gathering that began at UNM in 1986 and continues in the Southwest.
Leslie Marmon Silko, Honorary Doctor of Letters
Life affirming stories woven by Laguna Pueblo elders shaped the early education of brilliant writer and intellectual Leslie Marmon Silko, class of 1969. One of the foremost authors to emerge from the Native American literary tradition of the 1970s, she is widely recognized for prose that encapsulates Native American people, places and culture.
Silko graduated magna cum laude from UNM with a bachelor's in English. She briefly attended law school before deciding to pursue a writing career. Her first novel “Ceremony” (1977) is a college syllabi staple. Also a prominent poet, in 1973 she won the Chicago Review and Pushcart Prizes. Honored with the MacArthur Foundation “genius award” in 1981, she has been named a Living Cultural Treasure by the New Mexico Endowment of the Humanities. Silko has taught at Navajo Community College, UNM and the University of Arizona.
Contact: Laurie Mellas Ramirez, (505) 2775915
The National Academy of Sciences announced the election of 72 new members at its recent 142nd annual meeting and the list includes University of New Mexico Distinguished Professor of Biology James H. Brown. Election to the academy is considered one of the highest honors that can be accorded a U.S. scientist or engineer.
Brown joins current UNM faculty members Distinguished Professor of Anthropology Jane Buikstra, who has been a member since 1987 and Molecular Genetics and Microbiology Professor Jesse Summers, a member since 2001, in the NAS.
“Everyone at UNM is thrilled that Distinguished Professor James Brown is the latest member of our faculty to become a member of the National Academy of Sciences,” said Acting Provost Reed Dasenbrock. “Jim is a great scientist, a passionate teacher and a good university citizen. He does everything well and we are proud to have him as a member of the UNM faculty.”
Brown’s research has always been driven by curiosity about the diversity of life. He has conducted two major research programs over the course of his career including theoretical research in biological scaling and macroecology and experimental research in desert ecology. His research interests include community ecology and biogeography, with special projects on granivory in desert ecosystems; biogeography of insular habitats; and structure of dynamics of geographic-scale assemblages of many species.
“I love the challenge of trying to convey my passionate interest in biological diversity and to helping young people who want to discover secrets of nature by doing original scientific research,” said Brown, who has taught at UNM since 1987. “I enjoy teaching undergraduates in large classes on ecology, evolution, and biogeography. I also enjoy working with students individually or in small groups to develop their critical thinking and research potential. I have mentored many undergraduate honors students, most of whom have gone on to graduate school.
Brown has received many awards throughout his 38-year teaching career including: the Marsh Award for Career Achievement from the British Ecological Society (2002); Robert H. MacArthur Award for Research (2002) and the Eugene P. Odum Award for Education (2001), both from the Ecological Society of America; Elected Fellow (1995) by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences; John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation Fellow (1991-92); UNM Regents’ Professor (1990-2001); Distinguished Professor (2001-present) and Annual Research Lecturer (1999) C. Hart Merriam Award for Outstanding Service to Mammalogy (1989); and Elected Fellow, American Association for the Advancement of Science (1988).
He has written or co-authored seven books, more than 180 scientific papers in refereed journals, numerous chapters in edited volumes, invited papers, book reviews and other writings.
Brown earned his Ph.D. in Zoology from the University of Michigan in 1967 and began his teaching career at the University of California, Los Angeles, also in 1967.
The National Academy of Sciences is a private organization of scientists and engineers dedicated to the furtherance of science and its use for the general welfare. It was established in 1863 by a congressional act of incorporation signed by Abraham Lincoln that calls on the Academy to act as an official adviser to the federal government, upon request, in any matter of science or technology.
Those elected this year bring the total number of active members to 1,976. Also elected were 18 foreign associates from 14 countries in recognition of their distinguished and continuing achievements in original research.
For more information on James H. Brown visit: James H. Brown
Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821
Albuquerque Mayor Martin Chávez will be one of 13 instructors teaching Sophomore Seminars in Career Awareness this fall. The one-hour credit course is offered in small sections of less than 10 to enable instructors to interact closely with students. Chavez will teach a section titled “Careers in City & State Government.”
He will share his experiences in public life and talk about leadership. He will also take students to city hall to meet key employees and to learn what qualities and skills make a good candidate an official.
Other seminars available to students include:
“Entrepreneurship: Nuts, Bolts & Magic”
This seminar taught by Steven Becerra from the South Valley Business Development Center introduces students to the basics of starting a business.
“Career Opportunities in Law”
Taught by Robert Taichert, an attorney with the firm of Miller Stratvert in Albuquerque, this seminar will help students understand the requirement and opportunities offered by a legal education.
“The Art of Business Relationships”
Chelle Stringer, an organizational change manager with the City of Albuquerque will teach students professional skills and strategies to promote beneficial workplace relationships and facilitate change.
“Tomorrow’s Careers in Information Technology”
Taught by Georgia Montoya, owner of One Solution Group, an information technology consulting service and sales firm, this course will show students the variety of careers and incomes available in the information technology field.
“Federal Government Careers”
This section, taught by John Matis, the Southwest Regional Recruiter for the Bureau of Land Management in Santa Fe, will expose students to a wide variety of career fields and types of public service employment.
“Physician Lifestyles and Practices”
Taught by Reuben Last, a general surgeon at the Albuquerque Veteran’s Administration Medical Center and faculty member at the UNM School of Medicine, this section will examine and contract the career options, joys and burdens open to students who choose to go to medical school.
“Environmental Vocations”
Cynthia Gómez, a consultant for non-profit and governmental agencies, will lead students in an exploration of environmental vocations including government environment departments, non-profit environmental protection, conservation, environmental health organizations, community-based organizing networks in environmental justice and environmental careers in private industry.
“Film: From Credits to Title”
Janet Davidson, an actor and director in film and television, will help students understand the wide variety of careers available behind the scenes in film and television production.
“Women in Business”
Taught by Lauren Chavez, a medical doctor who is also president and CEO of two laser-based medical practices in Albuquerque. This section will offer multiple perspectives to students regarding women-owned businesses.
“Nursing”
Sylvia Burch, a registered nurse with Presbyterian Health Services, will lead students in an exploration of the numerous choices one has in the nursing profession with experienced nurses in various fields.
“Careers in Engineering”
Taught by Marlene Brown, a member of the technical staff at Sandia National Labs in the Advanced Sensors Technology group, working on satellite sensors and detectors. This section will help students explore the types of engineering careers available and includes an introductory hands-on exposure to technology such as solar electric systems.
“Careers on Campus: Working in Higher Ed”
Terry Babbitt, director of recruitment and outreach services at UNM, will show students the variety of careers available on college campuses for students who like the collegial and academic atmosphere.
“Discovering Your Career Choices”
Leslye Ellison, director of Career Services for UNM, will lead students through a career assessment process to look at their personality, interest, skills, abilities and values and show how that relates to career possibilities. There are three sections offered for this course.
All instructors have volunteered their time for the courses. University College Dean Peter White said, “Too many students discontinue their education because they lack sufficient information and guidance to enable them to choose a major and a career.”
White says there are 10,000 students enrolled in University College and the seminars can become life-changing events for students searching for a career they can embrace. Student registration is in progress now.
Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627
Two UNM authors will participate in readings and booksignings at the UNM Bookstore on Saturday, May 7, beginning at 2 p.m.
Linda Spaulding, events coordinator for Popejoy Hall and author of,” Walking Home on the Camino de Santiago,” kicks off the afternoon with her reading and presentation.
Following, Eleni Bastea, associate professor, UNM School of Architecture and Planning, will read from, “Memory and Architecture.” She will also give a slide presentation and be available for questions afterward.
That day only, the two books will be available for 20 percent off.
Contact: Anicia Esposito, (505) 277-9752
Two University of New Mexico political science students have produced the May 6 and 13 episodes of “In Focus,” KNME-TV Channel 5’s public affairs series. The students, Jana Pochop and Josh Keenan, have been interning with KNME-TV this semester, to produce the episodes.
Pochop and Keenan look at the next generation of leaders – those who are already active locally and globally – for the May 6 episode, “Tomorrow’s Leaders Today. ” For May 13, in “State of the Media,” they explore how the face and future of news and media are changing due to the rise of alternative and Internet news.
The May 20 episode seeks to discover why our culturally diverse state suffers from the No Child Left Behind initiative.
“Having worked on “In Focus” with the KNME staff this semester, they are ready for the challenge of producing an episode of a weekly public affairs series,” says Michael Kamins, KNME-TV executive producer. “I think they’re fantastic. They’re committed, work very hard, and have become an integral part of our production team.”
Contact: Evy Todd, (505) 277-1218
Martin Brennan, presently the ambassador to Zambia, has been named a Diplomat in Residence at UNM for the 2005-06 academic year. Brennan has been a member of the Foreign Service since 1976, serving in Washington, Uganda, Rwanda, Burkina Faso, Taiwan and Portugal.
"Ambassador Brennan brings with him a wealth of experience and will be a valuable resource for the students, staff and faculty at the University of New Mexico," wrote Robyn Hinson-Jones, coordinator, Diplomat in Residence Program, United States Department of State.
Brennan is a native Californian, born and raised in the San Francisco Bay area. He is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister Counselor. Mr. Brennan joined the Foreign Service in 1976 as a Political Officer and has served in Rwanda, Burkina Faso, Taiwan, Portugal, Thailand, Ethiopia, and Uganda.
In his overseas assignments, he carried out responsibilities in the political, commercial, labor, consular, refugee, and public affairs fields. His refugee duties took him to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos. He served on detail to the World Affairs Council of Northern California as Director of Programs.
As Acting Director in the Office of Southern African Affairs in the State Department, he was active in the Angolan and Mozambican peace processes. Between 1999 and 2002, Mr. Brennan served as Ambassador to Uganda. He is the recipient of two Department of State Superior Honor and five Meritorious Honor awards. In 2003, he received a Senior Foreign Service Performance Pay Award.
Brennan holds a Master’s degree from The Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (1976) and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of California at Berkeley (1971). He is fluent in French, Italian and Portuguese and reasonably fluent in Mandarin Chinese.
Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920