The New Mexico Committee of Women in the Arts presents Originals 2007: New Mexico Women Artists, hosted at both the UNM Harwood Museum of Art in Taos and the Millicent Rogers Museum through Dec. 30. The New Mexico Committee of Women in the Arts is affiliated with the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington D.C.
“The Harwood is honored to be co-hosting this exhibition with the Millicent Rogers Museum and excited to have the opportunity to celebrate the diverse talents of New Mexico’s women artists,” said Harwood Museum Director Charles Lovell. Works on view at the Harwood include sculpture, artist books, paintings, fiber art and mixed media assemblages. All exhibited work is for sale with the artist receiving 60 percent of proceeds, the museum 20 percent and the New Mexico Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts the remaining 20 percent.
The New Mexico Committee of Women enhances the mission of the National Museum of Women in the Arts by recognizing the achievements of living women artists in New Mexico through statewide and national art shows, educational programs, lectures and special events. The committee founded Originals, a biennial juried exhibition open to all living New Mexican women artists, in 1999.
In conjunction with Originals 2007, the Harwood and Millicent Rogers Museums present a series of free family programs. The programs are held Saturdays, 1-2:30 p.m., and include an interactive tour of the exhibit. Upcoming sessions at the Harwood include Photography with Dorie Hagler on Nov. 10 and Clay with Abby Salisbury on Dec. 15.
The Harwood Museum is also showing an exhibition titled Howard Cook: Prints from the Permanent Collection through Dec. 30. It features works in a variety of print media by Taos painter and master printmaker Howard Cook (1901-1980).
The Harwood Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon-5p.m. For more information visit Harwood Museum.
Media Contact: Lucy Perera-Adams, (505) 758-9826 ext. 105; e-mail: lperera@aol.com
UNM-Gallup Film Professor and Navajo film producer/director Melissa Henry will give the opening keynote at the fifth annual Regional Indigenous Bilingual Education Conference in Albuquerque, Nov. 8-9. She will present her film, “Horse is my Name,” at the MCM Elegante Hotel and Event Center, Atrium Ballroom at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 8.
Henry was recently selected for a Native Initiative Sundance Fellowship for filmmakers. An adjunct lecturer at UNM-Gallup, she has worked on projects with the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian and has made a series of abstract shorts, as well as documentaries.
In addition, Pearl Tate of the UNM Institute for American Indian Education and UNM Language, Literacy and Sociocultural Studies Associate Professor Kathryn Manuelito will participate in a panel titled “Internet to the Hogans and Navajo Language Support” on Friday, Nov. 9, at 8:30 a.m.
Coordinated by the Indigenous Institute for Native Arts, the conference explores a broad range of topics relating to Indigenous bilingual education, including education through the arts, learning strategies, technology, media and astronomy.
For more information visit: Regional Indigenous Bilingual Education Conference.
Media Contact: Sari Krosinsky, (505) 277-1593; e-mail: michal@unm.edu
The UNM Department of Theatre and Dance fall season in Theatre X closes with “Seascapes with Sharks and Dancer” by Don Nigro, showing Nov. 1-10. This production includes the theatrical directorial debut of Brandon Weaver and original music by UNM composition student Mark Oates.
Photo: Barney Lopez and Katy Bowen
“Seascape with Sharks and Dancer” is a contemporary love story between two people full of flaws and fears. A young man living in a beach bungalow has pulled a lost young woman from the ocean. Soon, she finds herself trapped in his life and torn between her need to come to rest somewhere and her certainty that all human relationships turn eventually into nightmares. This off-beat love story examines the reality of love and the choices we make to keep it alive.
Weaver, a senior acting student, has directed several short films. “I have enjoyed just about every minute of my directing experience here at UNM, and it has to do with my amazing cast and crew,” he said. “I remember reading the play as a freshman and finding it both funny and tragic. Now as a senior, I am ecstatic to make my directorial debut with Don Nigro’s ‘Seascape with Sharks and Dancer.’”
Oates, a music composition major, has written and performed music across the United States, Japan and Europe and has written music for game designers in Poland, Germany, Finland, Norway, Brazil and the U.S. He has won several music awards for his film scores and concert compositions, and has recorded with Grammy award winning record producers and engineers. This is the first time Oates has composed music for a play.
The cast of Seascapes includes UNM theatre students Katy Bowen as Tracy and Barney Lopez as Ben.
Performances are Nov. 1, 2, 3, 8 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 4 at 6 p.m. in the Experimental Theatre, Center for the Arts. Ticket prices are $10 general admission, $8 faculty and seniors, $7 staff and students. Ticket Offices are located at the UNM Bookstore and the Arena (The Pit). Tickets may also be purchased online at UNM Tickets or by calling (505) 925-5858. More information is available at: Theater.
Media Contact: Kathleen Clawson, (505) 238-6029; e-mail: kclawson@unm.edu
The National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are conducting a meeting of National Centers of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance (IA) Education (CAE/IAE) Oct. 30-31 at the Hyatt Regency in Albuquerque. The University of New Mexico, which is one of 86 National Centers of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education in the country, will be a part of the event that is being held to update the Centers on IA efforts and opportunities at the national level.
The meeting will also discuss the role of higher education in securing America’s Critical Information Infrastructure; and promote collaboration among the Centers to maximize expertise and resources.
A variety of sessions will be conducted for participants who will share information about their respective program with other schools, respective SEALs, and other interested and invited personnel from the Department of Defense and DHS.
The opening keynote address will feature UNM President David J. Schmidly and New Mexico Tech President Daniel H. López. Brian Lopez of the DHS will also provide an update as part of the first day activities. Additional activities include University Breakout sessions on both days. Also on the second day, the DoD and DHS will discuss related research topics.
The National Centers of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education (CAEIAE) Program is an outreach program designed and operated initially by the National Security Agency (NSA) as part of the Presidential Decision Directive 63, National Policy on Critical Infrastructure Protection, May 1998. The NSA and the Department of Homeland Security in support of the President's National Strategy to Secure Cyberspace, February 2003, now jointly sponsor the program.
The goal of the program is to reduce vulnerability in our national information infrastructure by promoting higher education in information assurance (IA), and producing a growing number of professionals with IA expertise in various disciplines.
UNM was designated as a National Centers of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance earlier this year. The designation is for five academic years beginning in 2007. The efforts were spearheaded by Anderson School of Management Professors Alessandro Seazzu, Stephen Burd, Christopher Conway and retired professor William Bullers.
For more information about the CAEIAE Program visit: CAEIAE Program.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
UNM Distinguished Professor of Chemical and Nuclear Engineering Abhaya Datye has received the National Science Foundation Industry/University Cooperative Research Center award for 2008.
“Dr. Datye’s leadership has resulted in a number of critical research initiatives that have improved the department’s visibility and facilitated the hiring of talented junior faculty,” said Julia Fulghum, chair of the Department of Chemical and Nuclear Engineering. “He has led the development of the new Nanoscience and Microsystems program, which has an impact not just on UNM, but on the state.”
The Ceramic and Composite Materials Center is a collaborative effort with Rutgers University and Penn State University. The Center was established in 1989 at UNM and Datye served as the director from 1994 - 2007.
At UNM, it is the hub of materials research, providing support for characterizations facilities and strong involvement in educational programs such as the Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU), the Nanoscience and Microsystems (NSMS) degree program and Integrated Graduate Education Research and Training (IGERT).
Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
The Provost’s Committee for Public Service and Community Engagement will present its Monthly Breakfast on Community Matters Friday, Nov. 2 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. in the Scholars Room in the UNM Student Union Building. This month’s guests include Paul Biderman, director of the Institute of Public Law and co-chair of the Consortium for Collaborative Public Policy, and Lois Vermilya, director of the Family Development Program in the College of Education.
Biderman co-chairs the Consortium for Collaborative Public Policy, which is developing a network of University of New Mexico institutes, centers, and individual faculty, staff and students who share a commitment to informed, productive decision-making on issues of public policy. The Consortium will provide non-partisan, independent analysis, convene interested parties, facilitate deliberative processes, and assess policy options.
On Nov. 9, the consortium will host a half-day workshop on application of collaborative governance principles and techniques to the development of progressive early childhood policy. For more information contact Biderman at, (505) 277-8789.
For the past 22 years, the Family Development Program (FDP) has consistently demonstrated how real partnerships that combine strengths of parents, teachers, and their community with support of university resources can make a difference for young children. The program provides statewide professional development for early childhood educators and families throughout New Mexico, serving rural and urban communities through yearlong training that is co-designed with community partners to meet their unique needs.
Vermilya serves as an active member and Executive Committee leader for the Early Childhood Action Network (ECAN), a statewide policy forum appointed by Lt. Governor Diane Denish to advise the New Mexico Children’s cabinet on recommendations to meet state goals for young children and their families. ECAN’s annual policy agenda and long-range plan advocates for a sound investment in NM’s children’s budget for family engagement, health, and quality early learning.
To RSVP for the breakfast e-mail, cpsce@unm.edu or call (505) 277-0278.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
The annual SUB Pumpkin Carving Contest will be held Wednesday, Oct. 31 in the SUB Atrium from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event is open to all students, facutly and staff. Prizes will be awarded in both individual and group categories for first, second and third place in both categories.
In past years, more than 50 pumpkins have been carved and entered. The annual event is a sure way to kick off the holiday season. Pumpkins, carving tools and refreshments will be provided. Participants should bring their creativity, carving skills and friends.
To join in on in on all the fun by showing off your pumpkin carving skills, participants may signup at the event, or pre-register at: 2007 Pumpkin Carving Contest to guarantee your spot or stop by to see who will be this year’s winners. Winners will be announced at 2 p.m., but need not be present to win.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
“Naked Science” program to address issues related to sun
Professor Yemane Asmerom and his research on issues related to the sun will broadcast on the National Geographic Channel (NGC) as part of the program titled, ‘Naked Science: Solar Force’ on Tuesday, Oct. 30 at 7 p.m. Mountain. The show will repeat Thursday, Nov. 1 at 9 p.m. Mountain.
Photo: Professor Yemane Asmerom stands next to a thermal ionization mass spectrometer. Asmerom and his research group will be featured on National Geographic Channel.
The program will address various issue related to the sun. The NGC crew filmed locally at UNM in Asmerom’s lab, in Carlsbad and also Chaco Canyon. The suns energy seems to be constant, but this gigantic nuclear reactor is in a continual state of flux. NGC reveals the latest scientific information that is uncovering the hidden ways that fluctuations in the suns output influence our climate.
Asmerom’s research group, which includes including Victor Polyak and Jessica Rasmussen from UNM, and Stephen Burns from the University of Massachusetts, will contribute information on solar forcing of climate and the relationship of climate and culture. The group has studied Holocene climate change and specifically the role of the sun on climate.
In an article published in Geology earlier this year and titled ‘Solar Forcing of Holocene Climate: New insights from a speleothem record Southwestern United States,’ Asmerom’s research group presents the first high-resolution complete Holocene climate record for the North American monsoon region of the southwestern United States (southwest) in order to address the nature and causes of Holocene climate change.
Their research shows that periods of increased solar radiation correlate with decreased rainfall, the opposite to that observed in the Asian monsoon, and suggest that a solar link to Holocene climate is through changes in the Walker circulation and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation and El Niño–Southern Oscillation systems of the tropical Pacific Ocean.
Given the link between increased warming and aridity in the southwest, the group believes additional warming due to greenhouse forcing could potentially lead to persistent hyper-arid conditions, similar to those seen in our record during periods of high solar activity.
For more information on Asmerom’s research visit: Yemane Asmerom.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
The UNM Bookstore, located on Central Ave. and Cornell NE, hosts a Children’s Book Fair, Saturday, Nov. 10 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The fair is a free event and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
This year’s theme for Children’s Book Fair is dogs and cats. Fun activities for children include book readings, face painting, crafts and an appearance from Louie Lobo.
Included in this year’s Children’s Book Fair are illustrators Tricia Tusa, “Fred Stays with Me,” Susan Guevara, “Chato Goes Cruisin,” and Jill McElmurry, “The Hound from the Pound.” They will entertain children with interactive drawings and readings from their books.
An adopt-a-thon featuring plush dogs and cats will also be held as part of the event. Children will receive a certificate of adoption for each pet they “rescue.”
The UNM Bookstore is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Validated parking is available in the parking structure for up to one hour with purchase.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
Stanley Morain, director of the UNM Earth Data Analysis Center and research professor in geography, has been selected to receive the 2007 William T. Pecora Individual Award for outstanding contributions in the field of remote sensing.
Photo: Stanley Morain, director, Earth Data Analysis Center
For more than 43 years, Morain has had a distinguished career in remote sensing that has been recognized locally, nationally and internationally. In addition to his work at UNM, he has educated professionals in developing countries on the applications of remote sensing in areas such as agriculture, transportation and public health. Morain has pursued a vision of employing remote sensing technology and products for advancing the growth of sustainable resources in developing nations worldwide.
The award will be presented to Morain at the opening session of the CRSS/ASPRS 2007 Specialty Conference in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada on Oct. 30.
The award, sponsored jointly by the U.S. Department of Interior and NASA, recognizes outstanding contributions to the understanding of the earth by means of remote sensing. It has been presented annually since 1974 in memory of William T. Pecora, whose early vision and support helped establish the Landsat satellite program.
On Tuesday, Oct. 30, more than 75 community organizations will converge on the UNM campus as part of the UNM Volunteer Fair in the UNM Student Union Building Ballroom. The fair, which will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., will provide faculty, staff and students the chance to meet with representatives from different local volunteer-oriented organizations and to become involved with an organization.
Organized by the Provost's Committee for Staff, the event provides an opportunity for the UNM community to explore organizations that best fit their interests and abilities. The fun and informative event seeks ways to create and establish a better link between organizations that need support and UNM staff members who can be a valuable resource.
Many staff members already volunteer their time, money and expertise to make Albuquerque a stronger, healthier and more vibrant community. Many different service organizations from the greater Albuquerque area will be attending this year’s Volunteer Fair.
Some of the participants include Big Brothers Big Sisters, Albuquerque Reads, National Alliance for Mental Illness, Friends of the Rio Grand Nature Center, Road Runner Food Bank, Peace Corps, UNM Athletic Club, Science Fair, Medical Reserve Corps, Albuquerque Animal Care Centers, Ronald McDonald House, Girl Scouts, and Maxwell Museum.
The Provost’s Committee for Staff was founded in 1989 to assist the Provost in determining what activities would provide UNM staff with opportunities for growth, recognition and service.
The Volunteer Fair has been held every other year since its inception in 1999. This is the first time the event is open to UNM students, as well as the staff and faculty. The event is also open to the public. Stop by the SUB for some snacks and see first-hand what a difference the UNM staff, faculty and students can make.
For more information contact Lina Marie Sandve, event coordinator, at 277-1326 or via e-mail, lsandve@unm.edu.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Eric Sevigny reports that the UNM Army ROTC Male Team tied for first in the annual 12th Brigade ROTC Ranger Challenge Competition held recently in at Camp Bullis in San Antonio, Texas. The team competed against 19 schools from Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico.
Photo: Michael Ogan and Gabriel Montoya. Back (l. to r.): Luis Sanchez, Phillip Velasquez, Andrew Rubin and Tyler Cormier.
The competition weekend kicked off on Friday with the Army physical fitness test – push-ups, sit-ups and a two-mile run. Later the teams took a written test on Army tactics and first aid techniques.
Saturday morning began before sunrise with a 10-kilometer march carrying a 30-pound pack. The day also included competition in weapons’ disassembly and assembly, an obstacle course, a hand grenade assault course and land navigation, with land navigation being conducted during the day and at night. The teams had to navigate the woods with only a map and compass.
At the end, the UNM male Ranger Challenge Team was tied with Texas A&M – College Station for first place. The tie breaking rules resulted in an overall second place finish for the UNM male team.
“In Army ROTC’s short four-year existence at UNM it has earned second place three of the four years. Each year the team to beat was Texas A&M. Tying for first place in this year’s competition was a tremendous accomplishment,” Sevigny said.
The annual Ranger Challenge competition is considered the varsity event for Army ROTC.
“With all six members of this year’s male team moving into their senior year, they will not be eligible to compete in next year’s competition. The co-ed team is looking to the future and plans to dramatically improve its standing in next year’s Ranger Challenge,” Sevigny said.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
Music Professor Brad Ellingboe and the UNM Concert Choir recently released “Fast Falls the Eventide,” a collection of sacred and familiar songs as well as pieces specially written and arranged for the choir including, “O Esca Viatorum,” a 17th century hymn.
Ellingboe’s original piece, “Be Music, Night,” is featured. Voice faculty Jaccqueline Zander-Wall, a mezzo soprano, is featured in the classic, “What a Wonderful World.” The violin solo in “I Saw a Stranger Yester’en” features UNM violin professor Carmelo de los Santos.
“The name of the CD comes from the second line in the song ‘Abide with Me.’ The CD is comprised of gentle music about evening, music and the night. The more hidden meaning is ‘abide with me,’ or come with me to listen to the UNM choirs,” Ellingboe said.
CDs are available for $15 at the UNM Bookstore and Music Mart of Albuquerque, 3301 Carlisle NE. Proceeds from the CD will benefit the concert choir to record again next year. Ellingboe said that another goal is sell enough to make it possible for the choir to get out in the community and perform statewide.
For more information contact Ellingboe at 277-4429.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
Mary Vosevich, director of UNM's Physical Plant, recently assumed the role of President for the Rocky Mountain Region of APPA (formerly called the Association of Physical Plant Administrators). This region includes facility management staffs at over 70 institutions ranging from Alberta, Canada to Arizona.
Before becoming the Region President for APPA, Vosevich served as the Dean of the Administration and Management Track of the APPA's Education Institute. The Institute offers the only skill improvement training program for higher education facility professionals in the United States. During her five-year tenure as Dean, over 750 managerial personnel graduated from the 160-hour program. Those graduates went on to work at universities in the United States, Canada and overseas.
Vosevich has worked at UNM for over 13 years, spending the last seven years as Director of the UNM Physical Plant. Prior to her time at UNM, Vosevich worked in the facilities department at the St. Louis branch of the University of Missouri. She has a Bachelors of Science in Agriculture from the University of Missouri and received her MBA through the Executive MBA program at UNM's Anderson School of Management.
Her term as Rocky Mountain Region president will last one year. She previous served on the association's national governing board for two consecutive years before being named president.
The APPA's mission is to provide higher education and quality leadership training to those working in the field of Facilities Management. They provide members with structured educational opportunities and recognition of service to higher education. APPA also sponsors research on topics important to improving facilities stewardship.
Media Contact: Benson Hendrix, (505) 277-1816; e-mail: bhendrix@unm.edu
In a recently published study by the Sustainable Endowments Institute, the UNM Transportation system received an “A” grade for its solid commitment to sustainable transportation initiatives.
The “College Sustainability Report Card 2008” study cited the use of E85 ethanol fuel and compressed natural gas by UNM vehicles as one reason for the grade. Currently, all new vehicles purchased by UNM are powered by E85 fuel. There are plans to purchase some vehicles that will run on biofuel – including vegetable oil – in the near future.
“We are proud and excited to be leading the way toward a sustainable campus and community. The Lobo Ride Pass program between the University and the City, allowing students to ride city buses for free, has also had a valuable impact upon reducing the number of cars on campus, so kudos go to ABQ Ride as well,” said Parking and Transportation Services Director Clovis Acosta.
Other reasons for the grade included staff and faculty discounts on Albuquerque buses; free UNM shuttles to the Alvarado Transit Station for those using the Rail Runner; the abundance of bicycle racks and the new bicycle program on campus; and the addition of the bicycle repair shop to Johnson Center.
Cynthia Martin of Parking and Transportation Services oversees the Department’s alternative transportation program.
“We aren’t resting on our laurels yet. There still a lot more we can do. We have a number of exciting new initiatives coming down the pike. Our first vanpool from the East Mountains area is up and running, and we anticipate soon having a couple more vanpools organized. People who are using it absolutely love it. We’re also hoping to soon be able to offer bicycles for department use in getting around campus, and we’re working on getting an hourly car rental service to campus by the beginning of Spring semester.”
For more information on alternative transportation programs at UNM, contact Parking and Transportation Services at 277-0461.
Media Contact: Benson Hendrix, (505) 277-1816; e-mail: bhendrix@unm.edu
In March 1997 when the New Mexico Legislature approved $500,000 to plan for a new building to house the University of New Mexico School of Architecture and Planning, no one thought a new building would be 10 years away. On Sunday, Oct. 28, at 2 p.m., the formal dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at George Pearl Hall, the new home for the school and for the UNM Fine Arts and Design Library.
The building is well worth the wait. The public is welcome to the free event, which will feature a brass band beckoning people to the west side of the building for a formal welcome. Roger Schluntz, dean, UNM School of Architecture and Planning, and UNM Executive Vice President David Harris, will cut the ribbon.
Students from the American Indian Council of Architects and Engineers will bless the building. Afterward, Harris, who served as UNM president from the groundbreaking through most of the construction, will speak about the challenges of the project as well as the promise presented in George Pearl Hall.
Former UNM Regent Penny Rembe, a supporter and advocate for the school and its programs, will speak about her friendship with George Pearl. UNM Library Dean Martha Bedard will talk about the much-anticipated move into the fourth floor of the building where the Fine Arts and Design Library will be moved come January.
Unique Cakes is providing a cake designed to look like George Pearl Hall and Antoine Predock will ceremoniously cut the first piece.
In January 2008, the School of Architecture and Planning will hold classes in the building and the library will open.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
New Mexico State Treasurer James B. Lewis keynote speaker
The Anderson School of Management will host the Sixth Annual Arthur A. Blumenfeld Endowed Lecture Series Thursday, Nov. 1 at the UNM Student Union Building. The program, which gets underway at 6 p.m. with registration and a reception, will feature New Mexico State Treasurer James B. Lewis as its keynote speaker. Lewis’ lecture is titled, “The State Treasury: Rebuilding after the Storm.”
The program schedule also includes:
7 p.m. – Welcome and introductions, David Campbell, program chair
Lectureship Committee, About the Arthur A. Blumenfeld Memorial Lectureship, Willow Harth
Greetings from the Anderson Schoool of Management and Introduction of James B. Lewis, Amy Wohlert, Interim Dean, Anderson School of Management
7:15 p.m. – Keynote Speaker James B. Lewis, State Treasurer of New Mexico –
7:45 p.m. – Dinner
Tickets are complimentary, but seating is limited and reservations are required. RSVP by Oct. 30, 2007 to rsvp@mgt.unm.edu or (505) 277-6264. Event parking is available in the Cornell Parking Structure for $5.
About James B. Lewis
A native New Mexican born in Roswell, Lewis was re-elected as New Mexico State Treasurer in November 2006. His mission is to provide proficient, efficient, effective and productive banking services with full transparency to the citizens of New Mexico.
As State Treasurer, Lewis is active on numerous boards and commissions and is the only elected state official who serves as a member of all state financial and investment boards and commissions with a total fiduciary responsibility in excess of $40 billion.
He has served as a catalyst for restored integrity in the State Treasurer’s Office; Lewis re-engineered department structures and leadership designations to establish the Operations Division, Budget and Finance Division, State Cash Management Division, Investment Division, and Executive and Administrative Management Teams.
Lewis has enhanced information technology operations, strengthened manager-to-employee and employee-to-labor union relationships and has established several key committees, including the Treasurer’s Blue Ribbon, Treasurer’s Labor Management and many others.
Highly respected for his integrity, leadership and knowledge, Treasurer Lewis is a member of Governor Richardson’s Task Force on Ethics Reform, is a board member of the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Mexico, and is an Army veteran. Lewis is a member of a number
of civic and professional organizations including the Prince Hall Masons, the Kiwanis Club of New Mexico, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and the NAACP.
Lewis holds undergraduate degrees in education and business administration and a Masters degree in Public Administration.
About the Arthur A. Blumenfeld Endowed Lecture Series
Throughout his life, Art Blumenfeld worked to improve the education and training of those serving in the public sector. He fervently believed that the government could serve only in equal measure to the skills and training of its employees.
Having served at various times as the National President of the Government Finance Officers Association, Director of the UNM Bureau of Business and Economic Research, Director of the UNM City of Albuquerque Urban Observatory, and as Finance Director and Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Albuquerque, Art particularly felt that the quality of our governmental institutions would be improved with strong professional training programs.
For this reason, Art’s family and friends established the Arthur A. Blumenfeld Memorial Lecture Series at the University of New Mexico’s Anderson School of Management. The Series sponsors lectures by prominent people in national, state, and local government affairs, particularly in the area of government finance.
The annual lectures focus on best practices in public finance. Participation of attendees from the ranks of public employees within the State of New Mexico is encouraged. When there are sufficient assets in the Fund, annual public training workshops will be presented for city and county finance officers.
Any person may make contributions by gift or bequest to the Foundation in the name of the Lecture Series. The Foundation will acknowledge receipt of all such gifts, which are tax deductible.
The University of New Mexico Foundation address is:
The University of New Mexico
Arthur A. Blumenfeld Memorial Lectureship
UNM Foundation
2 Woodward Center
700 Lomas NE, Suite 108
Albuquerque, NM 87131
Media Contacts: Leslie Venzuela, (505) 277-7117; e-mail: venzuela@mgt.unm.edu or Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
Photographers have a new way to show images highlighting UNM at: flickr.unm.edu. Flickr is a popular online social network similar to YouTube, but dedicated to sharing and storing photographs.
The UNM pool was created by Matt Carter, Information Technology Services technical support analyst, John Sumrow, University Communication and Marketing Web designer, and Kevin Wiley, Health Sciences Center Web administrator.
“It’s a creative way of using a pre-existing system,” Sumrow said. “Why reinvent the wheel?”
The pool has already gotten a big response, with photos portraying an eclectic mix of athletics, arts, landscape, architecture and general campus life. “The Web is getting back to its roots, where people share ideas, share everything,” Sumrow said. He added that many photographers welcome the opportunity to “put their own story, their own voice, their own view out there – and hopefully connect.”
Anyone can sign up by creating a flickr account and joining the UNM pool. Photos must be of the UNM campus, UNM events or UNM life.
Sumrow moderates the pool, selecting photos to ensure high quality. “The photo has to have something extra, something that kicks it over the edge from just a snapshot to something unique and special,” he said.
Though not all photos submitted will be included, the pool is open to photographers at all levels. “Everybody has a unique vision,” Sumrow said. “Anyone can make great images. You just have to pursue it and have passion.”
The online group creates opportunities for real life networking. Recently, a group of 26 flickr users from Albuquerque and Santa Fe met to take photos at dusk on the UNM campus – the biggest meet-up the group has had yet.
“Everybody hangs out, talks photography and shares recipes for making images,” Sumrow said.
The flickr community can also help photographers stay on track. “When you haven’t been on for a while the group misses you,” Sumrow said. “You push each other to make more great images.”
Media Contact: Sari Krosinsky, (505) 277-1593; e-mail: michal@unm.edu
The sun symbol displayed on the New Mexico state flag came originally from Zia Pueblo. That’s one of the most common uses of the Zia sun symbol, but there are thousands of others. The sun symbol is a part of the Zia Tribe’s heritage and is used by the tribe for religious purposes. But the state of New Mexico and hundreds of businesses use it without permission or licensing. The Zia’s are now looking for a way to protect the sun symbol by trade-marking it, thus making it subject to intellectual property laws.
On Tuesday, Oct. 30, Zia Pueblo Assistant Tribal Administrator Ken Lucero and other tribal members will speak about the significance of the sun symbol and the battle to protect it in two events.
From noon to 1 p.m. there will be a brown bag lunch in the Herzstein Reading Room on the second floor of Zimmerman Library, and from 3 to 5 p.m. there will be a lecture titled “Zia Sun Symbol: Patenting the Sacred” and a showing of a short documentary film titled, “The Pueblo of Zia: Home of the Sun Symbol.”
Both events are free. They are sponsored by University Libraries Indigenous Nations Library Program.
Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
UNM’s Department of Theatre and Dance presents the New Mexico premiere of Off-Broadway hit “Zanna, Don’t!,” a musical fairy tale about a matchmaking teen who turns relationships upside-down, challenges our point of view and changes the world forever. The play comes to Rodey Theatre in the UNM Center for the Arts Nov. 16-Dec. 2.
“Zanna, Don’t!” takes place in Heartsville, U.S.A., a town where the normal social structure is reversed – the captain of the chess team is the coolest guy in school, the football quarterback can’t seem to fit in, and homosexuality is the prevailing norm.
It’s a new school year at Heartsville High, and the school’s magical matchmaker Zanna is doing what he does best – matching up couples to make sure that no one suffers from extra love, but things go tragically wrong when the school’s two closeted heterosexuals realize their feelings for each other. Knowing that their forbidden love will make them outcasts, they turn to Zanna for help, and Zanna is forced to put his own happiness on the line to make the world safe for those he loves.
Directed by Kathleen Clawson, “Zanna, Don’t!” includes a dynamic cast of UNM students Daniel Garcia as Zanna, Dani Lenski as Kate, John Byrom as Steve, Nicole Larsen as Roberta, Chris Gallegos as Mike, Leonard Hughes as Tank, Rachael Shapiro as Candi and Nathan Simpson as Buck.
The creative team includes musical direction by Barbara Murray, choreography and assistant director Wendy Leverenz-Barker, scenic design by Michael Schwalm, costume design by Stacia Smith, lighting design by Josh Bien, and sound design by Mike Gerdes.
Tim Acito, who wrote the book, music and lyrics for “Zanna, Don’t!” will attend opening night on Nov. 16, and David Geist, the music director of the original production, will play and conduct opening weekend performances.
Show times are Nov. 16, 17, 23, 24, 29, 30 and Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m., and Nov. 18, 25 and Dec. 2 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 general, $15 faculty and seniors and $10 staff and students, and are available at UNM ticket offices, 925-5858 or UNM Tickets.
Media Contact: Sari Krosinsky, (505) 277-1593; e-mail: michal@unm.edu
Politics of Northern New Mexico forests focus of book
The UNM Bookstore hosts a book signing with Jake Kosek, author of “Understories: The Political Life of Forests in Northern New Mexico,” on Friday, Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. in the UNM Bookstore on the corner of Cornell and Central NE.
Through lively, engaging narrative, Understories demonstrates how volatile politics of race, class and nation animate the notoriously violent struggles over forests in the southwestern United States. Rather than reproduce traditional understandings of nature and environment, Kosek shifts the focus toward material and symbolic “natures” – unchangeable essences central to formations of race, class, and nation being remade through conflicts over resources and through everyday practices by Chicano activists, white environmentalists and state officials as well as nuclear scientists, heroin addicts and health workers.
Drawing on two years of ethnographic fieldwork and extensive archival research, he shows how these contentious natures are integral both to environmental politics and the formation of racialized citizens, politicized landscapes and modern regimes of rule.
Kosek trDavid Brookshire the histories of forest extraction and labor exploitation in northern New Mexico where Hispano residents have forged passionate attachments to place. He describes how their sentiments of dispossession emerged through land tenure systems and federal management programs that remade forest landscapes as exclusionary sites of national and racial purity.
Fusing fine-grained ethnography with insights gleaned from cultural studies and science studies, Kosek shows how the nationally beloved Smokey the Bear became a symbol of white racist colonialism for many Hispanos in the region, while Los Alamos National Laboratory, at once revered and reviled, remade regional ecologies and economies.
Understories offers an innovative vision of environmental politics, one that challenges scholars as well as activists to radically rework their understandings of relations between nature, justice, and identity.
Kosek is an assistant professor of American Studies and anthropology at the University of New Mexico.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
University Art Museum Friends of Art will present "Legacy at Risk: Artist's Homes and Studios," a lecture by nationally noted scholar, writer and preservationist Stephen May Saturday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. at UNM's Keller Hall, inside the Center for the Arts next to Popejoy Hall. Tickets are $10 per person and are available through the UNM Ticket Office, 1-877-664-8661 or 505-925-5858 or online at www.unmtickets.com.
A skilled and experienced speaker, May will guide his audience through the homes and studios of America's best-known artists. Of the over 250 American artists' homes and studios May has identified, highlights will include the homes of Edward Hopper, Jackson Pollack and Lee Krasner, James McNeil Whistler, Stuart Davis and many others.
Among the sites covered in New Mexico will be UNM's own Jonson Gallery, as well as the homes and studios of Taoseños Ernest Blumenshein and Nicolai Fechin, and Santa Feans Randall Davey and Allan Houser. May has lectured widely at museums including the Art Institute of Chicago, Delaware Art Museum, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Norman Rockwell Museum, and Smithsonian American Art Museum.
For more information contact Chip Ware at 277-4967.
The 2007 Fall Design/Science Extravaganza brought more than 900 students from Albuquerque, Los Lunas, Belen and Santa Fe to the UNM campus for competitions and presentations in the Student Union Building and Johnson Center. The students worked as teams on a variety of academic challenges provided by MESA including robotics, engineering, electrical circuitry, math and science.
When not competing, the students attended a variety of presentations by the Hispanic Engineering Student Organization (HESO). The presentations included information about the UNM FSAE Race Car team, robotics laboratories, and chemical engineering. There was also engineering and science information available from Sandia National Laboratories, Lockheed Martin and others.
Near the end of the day all students participated in two engineering competitions developed by HESO, an egg drop and bridge construction.
MESA provided transportation, a mid-morning snack and lunch for the students, along with ribbons and trophies for the event winners. HESO provided commemorative tee shirts and student packets as well as prices for the winners of the engineering competitions.
Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
Costly impacts foreseen for state’s economy and agriculture
Researchers at New Mexico State University and the University of New Mexico today released a new study finding climate change will result in decreased water availability in New Mexico’s Rio Grande Basin, cutting the state’s water supply and hurting its economy and agriculture.
Photo: UNM Civil Engineering Professor Julie Coonrod discusses a new study on climate change at the Rio Grande during a press conference Tuesday.
The two researchers, NMSU Agricultural Economics Professor Brian Hurd and UNM Civil Engineering Professor Julie Coonrod, note a wide range of climate models predict warmer weather and a change in precipitation patterns in New Mexico, changes the new study finds will lead to a decrease in water supply ranging from a few percent to a one-third in the Rio Grande Basin.
Such water supply reductions will have a significant impact on New Mexico’s economy. The study used a middle scenario of greenhouse gas emissions growth over the 21st century and examined a wide range of potential changes in temperature and precipitation.
“Direct and indirect economic losses are projected to range from $13 million to $115 million by 2030 in the state of New Mexico, and from $21 million to over $300 million by 2080,” said Hurd, who has studied climate change and its economic effects for more than a decade . “Traditional agricultural systems and rural communities are most at risk, and may need transitional assistance.”
Much of New Mexico’s surface water comes from snowmelt high in the mountains. Warmer temperatures could create a shift in precipitation patterns, leading to more rain and less snow. That would mean less water stored as snow pack and available after snowmelt for rivers and reservoirs, especially during the peak irrigation season in late summer.
Additionally, warmer temperatures translate to earlier seasonal snowmelts. That means the water that makes it to the reservoir has more time to evaporate before it is released to agriculture downstream.
"Purely economic figures don't tell the whole story," said Hurd. "Unfortunately, what we leave out of our analysis might ultimately prove more valuable to our environment, our identity, and to the character of New Mexico."
* Hurd and Coonrod say water supply losses will not only shrink crop acreage and production but could irreversibly alter New Mexico's landscape and rural character.
"Irrigated lands support more than crops," Hurd said. “They provide habitat for wildlife, open space and scenic vistas for the backdrop to New Mexico's thriving art, tourist and recreation economies." In addition, the researchers warn of the effects warming and drying would have on New Mexico's forests, rangelands and water quality, including heightened frequency and severity of wildfires, reduced forage for both livestock and wildlife and reduced water quality.
With decreases in available surface water coupled with rising urban populations, Hurd believes pressure to buy water from farmers will intensify. “Water prices will inevitably rise and farmers will find it more lucrative to lease or sell their water than to farm.” He also believes clarifying water rights and improved measurement will allow farmers to more profitably manage their water, leading to greater efficiency and mitigation of some of the farm-level economic losses.
“This is something that has already been happening in the state,” Hurd said. “Climate change will only make hasten water transfers.”
Hurd and Coonrod say with more people and less water in New Mexico’s future, the patterns of water use will either have to be reorganized, or the state risks significant disruption in the services provided by water resources. The research was funded by the bipartisan National Commission on Energy Policy.
The study is available online at: http://agecon.nmsu.edu/bhurd.
Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
Professor Gabriel Melendez, chair, American Studies, understands what it means to be a UNM student coming from rural, remote or small town New Mexico. He was born in Mora, N.M., located in the northern part of the state. He also understands what it means to leave those plDavid Brookshire where home, family, culture and tradition are not just words but a way of life.
Photo: Professor and American Studies Chair Gabriel Melendez.
Melendez and Manuel Garcia y Griego, director, Southwest Hispanic Research Institute, are co-chairs of the Title V faculty steering committee. Their charge is to help UNM faculty better understand the mindset, mentality, vitality and potential of UNM’s largely Hispanic, homegrown student body.
A workshop, “Responding to Diversity: Alternatives to blaming the students,” is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 7, 9 a.m.-noon and again at 2-5 p.m. in the Student Union Building Santa Ana room. Registration is required. Online visit: OSET or call OSET at 277-2229.
A special guest speaker, Craig E. Nelson, University of Indiana-Bloomington, will give the presentation and lead the workshop. Nelson, a biology professor, has taught numerous courses on teaching and received several awards for his work in the classroom. The Carnegie Foundation named him Professor of the Year in 2000. He was awarded the President’s Medal for Excellence in 2001 from Indiana University.
Jennifer Gomez-Chavez, director, Title V, said, “When diversity issues are cast in content-centered ways, many faculty members view them as irrelevant to their own teaching. An examination of pedagogical practices reveals a need for changes in nearly all courses.”
Workshop participants will learn how to reduce or eliminate low grades in lecture courses without lowering standards. They will also learn how, by dedicating one hour of class time, to make students work harder. They will also determine if their assessment systems unfairly and unnecessarily favor particular groups.
“Many traditional teaching techniques disadvantage many nontraditional students. We can make our courses fairer without lowering standards,” Gomez-Chavez said.
Melendez came to Albuquerque as a young teen when his family moved here from Mora. He went to Washington Middle School and Albuquerque High School. He remembers recruiters – UNM and military – coming to AHS in 1971. He chose the path to higher education, earning all his degrees in Spanish and Portuguese while learning about Chicano studies as a grassroots effort.
“For the first time Chicanos, Hispanic students were on campus in record numbers. We needed to be here to effect change. It was a way to help our community.”
Helping faculty be successful in the classroom directly results in student success. The Title V initiative is aimed toward just that.
“We hope all faculty who are able will take advantage of this opportunity,” Gomez-Chavez said.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center for Health Policy at UNM hosts “Explaining State-Level Differences in Minority Citizens’ Health Insurance Coverage,” a lecture by Florida State University Professor Charles Barrilleaux, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 12:30-1:45 p.m. in the Anthropology Building, rm. 178.
Photo: Florida State University Professor Charles Barrilleaux.
The lecture is free and open to the public. Parking permits for off-campus visitors are available by calling the RWJF Center at 277-0130.
Barrilleaux is LeRoy Collins Professor of Political Science at Florida State University, where he is also an associate of the DeVoe Moore Center for the Study of Critical Issues in Economics and Government, an associate of the Mildred and Claude Pepper Center for Aging and Public Policy. His health care research focuses on issues of access to care, state health policymaking, and problems of uninsurance.
According to Barrilleaux, most people recognize health insurance coverage as an important component of economic and personal security. “To the extent that ethnic and racial groups are at greater risk of being uninsured, those groups’ ability to succeed and participate fully in US society is hampered,” Barrilleaux said.
Nearly 45 million Americans were without health insurance of any kind during 2005. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, the rate of uninsurance in the US varies greatly by race, with about 12 percent of whites, 20 percent of African-Americans, 34 percent of Hispanics, and 18 percent of persons categorized as “other” race being uninsured. Variations are more pronounced among the states, rising as high as 55 percent among Hispanics in Tennessee and 27 percent among blacks in Florida.
Barrilleaux said he plans to discuss sources of variation in state-level rates of uninsurance among groups and point to plausible policy solutions to the problem.
“The wide variation among states, some of which are straining their budgets to pay for Medicaid and other health programs, suggests that the popular strategy of relying on the states as a solution to the health coverage problem may be flawed,” he said.
Barrilleaux received his Ph.D. in political science from State University of New York, Binghamton in 1984 and completed post-doctoral training in health care finance as a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Faculty Fellow at Johns Hopkins University in 1986-1987. In addition to Florida State University, he has been on the faculty at the University of New Orleans and worked as a policy analyst for the New York state Medicaid agency.
The lecture is part of the RWJF Center for Health Policy’s Fall Lecture Series. For more information about this or other upcoming lectures, contact the RWJF Center at (505) 277-0130 or via email at rwjf@unm.edu.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
The University of New Mexico ARTS Lab will present an interactive demonstration on studio lighting for green screen applications on Friday, Oct. 26, 2-4:30 p.m. at the ARTS Lab Garage at 123 Pine St. N.E., near the intersection of Central Avenue and University Boulevard. The event is the first in a new series of Friday afternoon workshops. Future topics include motion capture and digital rights management.
Green screen is a popular special effects tool, used in numerous movies including “Sin City” and “300.” The technique is a relatively low-cost way for filmmakers to put their characters in the environment of their choice. But the proper lighting can make all the difference.
The Oct. 26 demonstration will cover the basic approach to illumination concepts and specific challenges involved in lighting for the chroma key process.
This session will be conducted in the studio environment of ARTS Lab Garage, and will feature a real-time chroma key system. The concepts covered can be applied to film and video projects, experimental art and visual effects.
To participate in the event RSVP at: ARTS Lab RSVP.
Media Contact: Sari Krosinsky, (505) 277-1593; e-mail: michal@unm.edu
The University of New Mexico Women’s Resource Center presents a film festival, Oct. 26-27, in the Student Union Building, Southwest Film Center Theatre. The festival opens with a screening of “The Shape of Water” and keynote speech by filmmaker and director Kum-Kum Bhavani on Friday, Oct. 26 at 7:30 p.m.
The film captures an encounter with five women in Brazil, India, Jerusalem and Senegal and their responses to environmental degradation, archaic traditions, lack of economic independence, and war.
Five films will be shown Saturday, Oct. 27:
11 a.m. – “Judith Butler: Philosophical Encounters of the Third Kind.” This documentary offers an intimate look at one of the most fascinating minds in contemporary gender studies.
Noon – “Flowers for Guadalupe.” Women of Mexican descent discuss the cultural and spiritual significance of La Virgin de Guadalupe in their lives.
1:30 p.m. – “Look Us In The Eye: The Old Women’s Project.” This documentary captures senior women’s stories of struggling against ageism and cultural, social and political invisibility.
2:15 p.m. – “I Was A Teenage Feminist.” A self-reflective look at one young woman’s efforts to show her peers the continuing relevancy of feminism.
3:30 p.m. – “Prison Lullabies.” A documentary about the triumphs and travails of incarcerated mothers.
The film festival is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome. The event is cosponsored by Women in Movement in New Mexico (WIMIN) and the Southwest Film Center.
For more information call Summer Little at 277-3716.
Media Contact: Sari Krosinsky, (505) 277-1593; e-mail: michal@unm.edu
The University of New Mexico-Gallup Cultural Arts Council presents Blackhorse Mitchell, artist, musician and storyteller, on Thursday, Nov. 8, at 7 p.m. in Gurley Hall 1124 at UNM-Gallup.
Photo: Artist, musician and storyteller Blackhorse Mitchell.
Born in Tsezhin Bidaat’i’i' near the Colorado border, Mitchell grew up herding sheep on Palmer Mesa and in Salt Creek Canyon. He left for boarding school in Colorado in 1951, and then went to study art at the Institute of American Indian Art in Santa Fe.
In 1963 he wrote a chronicle of his life titled, “Miracle Hill.” The biography is available through the University of Arizona Press.
Mitchell conducts workshops on pottery, basketry and moccasin-making at Diné College.
He is a full-time Navajo language teacher at Shiprock High School. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from UNM.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
UNM School of Law Professor Emeritus Peter Winograd saw five years of persistence and hard work pay off on Sept. 27, when President George Bush signed the College Cost Reduction and Access Act into law.
Winograd, along with Georgetown University law professor Philip Schrag, helped draft a provision in the new law to greatly reduce the standard monthly payment on federal education loans for graduates who are pursuing a career in public service. After 10 years of public interest work and making consistent payments, the loan’s remaining balance will be forgiven.
“Our hope is that a graduate who spends 10 years in a low-paying public interest job will stay with it after the loan is forgiven,” says Winograd. “This now makes it possible for people with their hearts set on public interest employment to be financially able to undertake such work.”
Winograd is the chair of the ABA Legal Education Section’s Government Relations and Student Financial Aid Committee. Schrag is the vice chair of the committee, which had been lobbying for this provision for over five years.
Background on Peter Winograd...
Winograd was recently elected to a second two-year term as Secretary of the American Bar Association's Council of the Section of Legal Education & Admissions to the Bar. The Council is the agency designated by the United States Department of Education to accredit U.S. law schools.
Professor Winograd joined the UNM School of Law faculty in 1976 as associate dean. Through his involvement in the ABA, he has helped evaluate over 30 law schools across the country, often discovering new teaching ideas and approaches that he has helped to incorporate into the UNM School of Law.
He is also a public member of the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, the medical school accrediting body appointed by the Association of American Medical Colleges and the American Medical Association.
Media Contact: Benson Hendrix, (505) 277-1816; e-mail: bhendrix@unm.edu
The UNM Student Health Center presents “Red Ribbon Day ’07,” on Wednesday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the SUB plaza.
This is an opportunity for people to learn about the dangers of alcohol, which is important since in 2005, 2.1 million students between 18 and 24 drove under the influence of alcohol.
The event features information, resources, fun games and prizes.
The 6th Annual UNM Golf Fiesta at UNM’s Championship Course is set for Friday, Oct. 26 with a registration deadline of Tuesday, Oct. 23 by 5 p.m. The event is open to all UNM students, faculty, staff and alumni.
Registration fee is $50 per person or $200 per team and includes green fees, cart and prizes. A buffet is open following the tournament.
Sign-in starts at 11:30 a.m., shotgun starts at 12:30 p.m. Registration is limited to the first 30 teams with reservations with teams comprised of four-person scramble.
Prizes will be presented for the 1st-3rd place teams and for specialty contests including closest to the pin, longest drive and other hole contests.
For more information call 277-4546.
Interested Faculty and Staff members are invited to an informal gathering of people interested in nanoscience on Thursday, October 25th from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. in room 106 of the Faculty Club at 1923 Las Lomas NE.
The Nano Café will provide an opportunity for the Nanoscience community to exchange ideas in an informal atmosphere, and to present research findings with plenty of time available for in-depth discussions.
We plan short talks by faculty, students, and invited guests, followed by a social hour. Refreshments and light hors d'oeuvres will be provided.
The speakers at our first meeting will be:
Justine Johannes, Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque "National Institute for Nanoengineering Education"
John Grey, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, "Uncovering Structure-Function Relationships at Heterojunction InterfDavid Brookshire in Molecular Photovoltaic Materials"
Adam Wise, IGERT fellow and Ph.D. student, "Nano Outreach - helping create the next generation of Nano scientists"
Please join us!
The Nanoscience and Microsystems (NSMS) degree program and Integrated Graduate Education Research and Training (IGERT) program is sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF).
For more information, please contact Abhaya Datye at 277-0477 or Heather Armstrong at 277-6824.
The third candidate, José Pagán, to visit campus for executive director of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center, is Monday, Oct. 22 at 2:30 p.m. in the SUB Acoma Rooms A&B. Pagán, professor of economics, in the Department of Economics and Finance at the University of Texas-Pan American, is also director of the Institute for Population Health Policy at UT Pan American.
He has been a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health & Society Scholar at the Wharton School of Business and School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, and has served as the director of the Center for Border Economic Studies at UT-Pan American.
Pagán received his Ph.D.in economics from UNM, and a master’s at Ohio State
University.
For more information or assistance call the Center at 277-0130.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
From the moment they arrive at the University of New Mexico, students are challenged to put knowledge into practice. Research Quest Day 2007, held Wednesday, Nov. 14, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Student Union Building, highlights the scholarly and creative endeavors of UNM freshmen.
Throughout the day, students will demonstrate research in a wide range of academic disciplines through oral and poster presentations. Students will also display their creative side through spoken word, dance, art, short films, architectural models and engineering structural design models. Cash prizes will be awarded to the best projects.
At noon, Dean of University College Peter White will present a keynote address on “Devil Babies, King Tut, Cattle Mutilations, and Alien Abductions: The Role of Coincidence in Academic Research” in Student Union Building ballroom B. White is a presidential professor of English and American studies at UNM, where he has taught since 1977.
As dean of University College, he has overseen the creation of innovative undergraduate programs including Freshman Learning Communities, Freshman Convocation, Freshman Family Day, Sophomore Seminars in Career Awareness, and the Research Service Learning Program, among others.
Research Quest Day is sponsored by University College, PROFOUND, Women in Science and Engineering, the Ronald McNair Program, and others. For more information, contact Marla Wyche-Hall, program director, at 277-8279 or mwycheh1@unm.edu.
Research Quest Day 2007
Wednesday, Nov. 14
Student Union Building
7:45-8:50 a.m.
Registration, in front of ballrooms B and C
7:45-10 a.m.
Light Fare
9-11:40 a.m.
Poster Presentations Session I, ballroom C
Oral Presentations Session I, third floor meeting rooms
Creative Presentations Session I, main and third floor levels
Noon-1 p.m.
Luncheon/Keynote Address, ballroom B
Dean of University College Peter L. White
1:15-4:15 p.m.
Poster Presentations Session II, ballroom C
1:20-4:45 p.m.
Oral Presentations Session II, third floor meeting rooms
Creative Presentations Session II, main and third floor levels
The UNM Public Service Career Showcase is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 25, 2007 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the UNM Student Union Building Ballroom. The focus of this event is employment in federal, state and municipal governments. The event is open to all students, alumni and community members.
The event provides an opportunity for job seekers to connect with multiple employers in just one day. Job seekers should come prepared, professionally dressed and with plenty of copies of their resume.
For an up-to-date detailed list of registered recruiters and their openings visit: UNM Career Services or call the office at 277-2531 for more information.
Media Contact: Jason Capps, (505) 277-2531; e-mail: jcapps@unm.edu
Opening reception to be held Friday, Oct. 26 from 4 to 6 p.m.
An art exhibition titled 'Unsung: Portraits of UNM School of Medicine Faculty' by Jack Melville will be on display beginning Friday, Oct. 26 through Monday, Nov. 30, 2007. The exhibition will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday on the Fifth Floor Art Gallery at UNM Hospital.
The unique art exhibition features UNM School of Medicine faculty. Pediatric cardiology staff member and exhibition guest curator Nancy Whalen will present a series of portraits of the "old guard" in a way to honor them while they are still active in campus life.
Melville decided to call the show "Unsung" because all of the faculty he painted were so modest about their accomplishments.
"They're heroic, in a way: They build a medical school from the ground up. They invented a new way of teaching medicine that is now internationally known. But they're not about that; they're very humble," said Melville.
It is important to note that this show was not commissioned by the Health Sciences Center, and that Melville has not received payment for his work. He was willing to commit to the project for the exposure and for the experience of working with the UNM faculty members he painted.
"I feel like I've grown as a person just from talking to them," he said.
The show's curators hope that some paintings will be sold to help compensate Melville for his time and talent. But Melville hopes the paintings will remain in the hospital where people can see them. "The show belongs on campus," he said. "It is part of the school's legacy."
For more information, contact Chris Fenton via e-mail at: cfenton@salud.unm.edu or by telephone, 272-9700.
Pam Hurd-Knief, interim associate vice president for development, has been selected by the New Mexico Chapter of Fundraising Professionals to receive the award for outstanding fundraising professional. While chief development officer for the UNM School of Architecture and Planning, she led the development effort to raise more than $17 million in public and private funds while at the School and in her current position serves in a leadership role with the UNM Foundation that raised $72 million in FY 06-07.
Photo: Pam Hurd-Knief
Hurd-Knief will receive the award at the 21st Annual National Philanthropy Day luncheon on Friday, Nov. 16, at the Embassy Suites Hotel.
Hurd-Knief has been at UNM for eight years, six years at the School of Architecture and Planning, with prior development-related positions at the Carrie Tingley Hospital Foundation, UNM School of Law and the UNM Children’s Hospital. In her current role as director of major gifts, she has worked closely with all UNM schools, colleges, units and campuses to facilitate interaction with donors and prospective donors.
Hurd-Knief, who is a Certified Fundraising Executive, is past president of the New Mexico Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. She has also served on more than a dozen non-profit boards in the greater Albuquerque area. She earned a master’s in philanthropy and development at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
UNM architecture student Arturo Nuñez, was selected by a distinguished jury to receive the form·Z Joint Study Program Award of Distinction for Fabrication. Also, the UNM team of Nuñez, Alberto Rodriquez and Jake Semler won Honorable Mention in fabrication, allowing UNM a sweep of the category. All three graduated this spring with bachelor’s degrees in architecture.
Photo: Form Z President Chris Yessios congratulates Arturo Nuñez on his award.
The form·Z Joint Study Program makes form·Z and its related products available to educational institutions, one year at a time, at the cost of processing and materials.
The goals of the Joint Study Program are to promote education in 3D modeling and computer-enhanced design, and to contribute to the evolution of computer driven design tools.
Nuñez’s project is titled, “Modulation+Mutations II.” In his project submission, he wrote, “The exponential growth of digital information and continual expansion of new technologies has had a profound effect on the manner by which architects create space. Designers are now incorporating new methodologies that borrow from the automotive, aeronautical and cinematic professions.”
In his project, Nuñez designed walls “as a living element” that can be used for many purposes. See his designs on the form·Z Web site:
http://www.formz.com/jointstudy/JS2006/awards20062007.html.
Tim Castillo, assistant professor in the School of Architecture and Planning, defines Nuñez’s project as “urban furniture.” He notes that their work will be published in the Joint Study Annual Report in 2008.
“This sweep is a great honor for our school and program,” Castillo said.
The Joint Study Program requires a regular member of the faculty, in this case, Castillo, to serve as principal investigator, who administers the program and submits a report and samples of student work at the end of the academic year.
Awards are selected annually by a jury of distinguished experts. The winners of the Awards of Distinction receive a free copy of form·Z, and their schools receive a free one-year subscription to the JS Program.
Nuñez, a Mexican immigrant who has lived in New Mexico for 20 years, created this design as a fourth-year architecture student at UNM.
Architecture has allowed Nuñez to critically evaluate the world around him and the way he experiences it. “I have found an unfortunate misunderstanding of the essential role an architect can play, a role that has been undermined by the misguiding principles of American capitalism. In this environment driven by the bottom dollar, architecture is forced to confront challenges in new and innovative ways to advance the field.”
Nuñez received his award at the ACADIA Conference earlier this month in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
Music Professor Brad Ellingboe has been invited by the Norwegian Consulate to lecture on the music of Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg, in commemoration of his centennial, on Thursday, Nov. 8, at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall. His lecture precedes a concert featuring the chamber ensemble Poetica Musica.
The Norwegian Consulate General’s Cultural Affairs Officer, Thor-Arne Englund, wrote, “It is a great honor for us to have such a renowned Grieg scholar lecturing at our event – especially since Grieg’s adaptation of Arne Garborg’s ‘Haugtussa’ is central in the concert’s program.”
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
Construction on the intersection of Yale Boulevard and Camino de Salud on North Campus – roads that lead to University Hospital, Information Technology Services, Physics and Astronomy, and the Law School – began on Oct. 12. When the construction is completed the intersection will be transformed into a “roundabout”, providing smoother traffic flow through the former start-and-stop intersection.
In addition to the change to the intersection, the entrance to the Information Technology Services and the Physics and Astronomy buildings will have moved from Yale Boulevard to Camino de Salud.
Phase one of the road construction involves the widening of Yale Boulevard from Lomas north to Camino de Salud. A new entrance on the north end of the Physics and Astronomy parking lot will also be opened and the existing parking lot entrance will be closed. This phase is expected to continue through the first week of November.
In phase two of the construction, scheduled to begin in the second week of November and run through mid-December, Camino de Salud west of Yale will be closed, but through traffic will be able to use Tucker and Yale. The entrance to the M parking lot, Physical Plant and Office of Capital Projects offices will remain open off of Camino de Salud. Traffic will detour around the construction area through the Physics parking lot to Camino de Salud east of Yale and back to Yale Boulevard.
In the final stage of the project, Yale Boulevard will be opened from Lomas to Camino de Salud. Yale will be closed from Camino de Salud to Tucker during this time while Camino de Salud west of Yale will be reopened to traffic. The detour through the Physics parking lot will remain open to allow access to Camino de Salud east of Yale.
Commuters, students and staff traveling to the Law School, Health Sciences Center or parking areas will be diverted west to the intersection of Camino de Salud and Tucker to avoid construction. This final phase will run from mid-December to mid-January, the completion date for the project.
Media Contact: Benson Hendrix, (505) 277-1816; e-mail: bhendrix@unm.edu
The University of New Mexico Children’s Hospital recently celebrated the official opening of the Jeff Apodaca Multi-Media Center located on the sixth floor of the Barbara and Bill Richardson Pavilion. Apodaca, son of former New Mexico Governor Jerry Apodaca, has been raising money for the UNM Children’s Hospital for the past 10 years and has held a fundraiser gala event for the last nine years.
Photo (l. to r.): Jeff Apodaca, Julia Grimes, director of Child Life, and Apodaca's wife, Jackie.
Every dollar raised has gone toward the media center and the Jeff Apodaca Celebration of Life Scholarship, which awards New Mexico students, who have battled a serious childhood illness, $5,000 for tuition and books.
With the help of family and friends, Apodaca has raised close to $1 million for the UNM Children’s Hospital, $80,000 in scholarships.
September 28 marked the last fundraiser gala event, but Apodaca has taken the $350,000 left from his fundraising efforts and has endowed it to UNM. That money will continue to be allocated to the media center and future scholarships.
At the same time of the official opening of the media center, Apodaca was also celebrating 28 years of being cancer free. As a teenager, he was diagnosed with a rare soft tissue cancer and was treated at UNM Children’s Hospital. Nine years ago, Apodaca decided he wanted to do something to help other children who have battled cancer and other illnesses.
“My vision was to have a multi-media center with computers, a big-screen tv and other media options where kids could go be entertained and educated while staying at the hospital,” said Apodaca. “Every dollar we raise is to educate or entertain a child.”
Since it’s opening, the media center has proven to be a popular space for pediatric patients and their families. Julia Grimes, director of Child Life, said the media center has become a gathering place for those staying at the hospital. Every Tuesday the media center hosts a bingo night and every Thursday is movie night.
Media Contact: Lauren Cruse, (505) 272-3690; e-mail: lcruse@salud.unm.edu
The UNM Parking and Transportation Department announced a plan to end service to three bus stops in the area of Yale, north of Lomas, and Camino de Salud to accommodate ongoing construction of the new Yale Roundabout on the North Campus. These stops will close starting on Nov. 1 and will remain closed until further notice.
The locations affected are the intersection of Yale and Camino de Salud and on Camino de Salud, approaching Tucker. The closest bus stops to the affected area are located on Tucker, east and west of the UNM Observatory. The remaining bus stops on this route will remain open.
These closures will impact riders using the Redondo shuttle service and the G/Q parking lot shuttles departing from the Duck Pond.
For more information, please contact Deirdre Markham at, dmarkham@parking.unm.edu or call 277-5692.
Media Contact: Benson Hendrix, (505) 277-1816; e-mail: bhendrix@unm.edu
Hope On Wheels Hyundai dealers recently donated $30,000 to the UNM Children’s Hospital in the fight against pediatric cancer at a symbolic “handprint” ceremony. Patients placed colorful handprints on a white 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe to celebrate their lives and treatment milestones.
Photo: A Hyundai dealer representative helps a UNM Children's Hospital patient place his handprint.
Hyundai’s Hope on Wheels program is the united effort of more than 750 Hyundai dealers to raise awareness for children battling cancer.
Since the inception of Hope On Wheels in 2004, the tour has visited more than 70 hospitals nationwide and has collected more than 300 handprints.
Hyundai and its dealers have contributed more than $8 million to research institutions across the country to date.
In 2007, Hyundai will visit 300 institutions and expects to reach $10 million in total contributions since adopting pediatric cancer as a national cause.
Media Contact: Lauren Cruse, (505) 272-3690; e-mail: lcruse@salud.unm.edu
UNM’s Department of Theatre and Dance celebrates the appointment of award-winning playwright Elaine Avila as the Robert Hartung Endowed Chair of Dramatic Writing with a reading of selections from her recent plays on Sunday, Oct. 21, noon to 1 p.m. in Rodey Theatre, Center for the Arts. The reading features UNM’s resident company, the Tricklock Theatre Company directed by Joe Perrachio, and is free of charge.
Photo: Elaine Avila
Avila’s plays have been performed across the U.S., Canada and Europe. Some of her favorite projects include “Lieutenant Nun” (based on the true story of a woman conquistador), “Burn Gloom” (a music-theatre collaboration involving writers from 14 cities) and “Good Fooling” (the story of Shakespeare’s Clown).
She is the recipient of numerous awards including The Victoria Critic’s Circle for Best New Play, a Canada Council Millennium Grant, New Works for Young Women Award/Residency from Tulsa University, the A.S.K. Theatre Projects Scholarship, and the Alden B. Dow Fellowship.
Her screenplays include “Fortune,” “Kai takes a Solo” and “Lead Dress.” She is currently at work on her novel, “Saudades,” about her Portuguese grandfather immigrating to North America from the Azores. Avila has an M.F.A. in playwriting from California Institute of the Arts, where she worked closely with Suzan-Lori Parks and Erik Ehn. She has taught in universities from British Columbia to Tasmania.
One of her passions is working with people who do not traditionally have access to theatre because of life threatening illness, violence, poverty, language barriers or disability. Highlights in artistic leadership include serving as Artistic Director of a company specializing in international theatre and the classics, and spearheading LEAP, a multicultural initiative fostering young playwrights.
While working professionally as an actor/director in the U.S., Canada and Australia, she became one of the few people in the world trained in Pochinko clown through mask technique, a combination of Native North American and European clowning, as well as Augusto Boal’s Theatre of the Oppressed and commedia dell’ arte.
As the Robert Hartung Endowed Chair of Dramatic Writing, Avila is working with both undergraduates and M.F.A. students in UNM’s Dramatic Writing Program. This program offers continuing opportunities for producing new work which creates an environment where students are either preparing scripts for submission to the annual new works festival, Words Afire, submitting material for production to the local theatre community, or for the season of plays selected by students and presented in Theatre X. Students in the writing program have won national playwriting awards for the plays presented in this festival, including awards from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival.
The Oct. 21 reading will be followed by a brief reception where the public is invited to meet Avila. More information is available at: UNM Theatre or by calling (505) 277-4332.
Media Contact: Kathleen Clawson, (505) 238-6029; e-mail: kclawson@unm.edu
New Mexico In Focus airs on Friday, Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. & repeats Sunday, Oct. 21 at 6:30 a.m.
'New Mexico In Focus' is KNME, Channel 5’s newly reconceived and invigorated prime-time news magazine show covering the events, issues and people that are shaping life in New Mexico and the Southwest. This week’s topics include: Steve Pearce's decision to take on Heather Wilson for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate; Sex education in New Mexico's classrooms; and Spaceport America.
This week's guest:
* Lonnie Talbert, director, Corporate Credit and Quality, Summit Electric Supply
Co-Hosted by Santa Fe Reporter staff writer David Alire Garcia and local Tribune columnist Gene Grant, New Mexico In Focus takes a multi-layered look at social, political, economic, health, education and arts issues and explores them in-depth, with a critical eye to give them context beyond the "news of the moment."
Regular Commentators/Panelists
* Hosts: Gene Grant and David Alire Garcia
* Margaret Montoya, UNM Schools of Law and Medicine
* Whitney Cheshire, political consultant; blogger, Wednesday Morning QB
* Jim Scarantino, Weekly Alibi Columnist
The producer of New Mexico In Focus is Kevin McDonald. Support for the show has been provided by McCune Charitable Foundation. Closed Captioning has been made possible by a gift from Mrs. Elspeth G. Bobbs.
Media Contact: Evy Todd, (505) 277-1218; e-mail: etodd@knme.org
On Tuesday, Oct. 16, University of New Mexico Hospitals (UNMH) and staff honored former patient Geoffrey S.M. Hedrick for his donation of $2.5 million to fund the purchase of a Dual Tube 64 Computed Tomography (CT) Scan that will be used in the Imaging Suite located in the Trauma Center at UNMH.
Photo: Geoffrey S.M. Hedrick talks with radiology Chairman Michael Williamson about the CT scanner.
Forty-two years ago, Hedrick suffered extensive critical injuries due to an auto accident in Grants, N.M. His injuries required him to stay for four months, in traction, at UNMH. Hedrick credits the staff at UNMH for saving his life and his legs.
Hedrick now lives in Pennsylvania and is the founder and CEO of Innovative Solutions & Support, Inc. He has 35 years of experience in the avionics industry, and holds a number of patents in the electronics, optoelectric, electromagnetic, aerospace and contamination-control fields.
As a tribute and in recognition of his purchase of the CT Scan, the Imaging Suite in our Trauma Center has been named in honor of Hedrick,” said Steve McKernan, CEO for UNMH. “Mr. Hedrick has displayed a dedication to quality technological advancement for over 35 years and his personal appreciation of UNM Hospitals for their expert, professional and compassionate care will not be forgotten.”
For more information contact the Development Office at, (505) 277-5685.
Media Contact: Lauren Cruse, (505) 272-3690; e-mail: lcruse@salud.unm.edu
Professor of Civil Engineering James D. Brogan has received the Distinguished Service Award from the Western District of the Institute of Transportation Engineers. ITE is an international association of transportation professionals and has more than 25,000 members worldwide.
Photo: James D. Brogan
Brogan has been a member of the institute for 35 years. He has chaired UNM’s Paving and Transportation Conference for the past 20 years. That conference provides the latest information about paving materials, highway planning and design, and mass transportation in a setting that focuses on local and state needs.
In addition to his teaching responsibilities at UNM where he is a tenured professor, Brogan also is the director of the Alliance for Transportation Research Institute.
Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
Maxwell Museum continues to feature an array of exhibits, performances and celebrations in honor of its 75th anniversary during the month of October. The museum’s Artisans of the World presents “Eskimo Drawings,” a discussion of various drawings done by Inupiat, Yup'ik and Siberian on Thursday, Oct. 25, 7 p.m. Yupik Eskimo artists from the late 19th to mid 20th century show various aspects of Native life along the Bering Sea and the Arctic Ocean. The evening also includes a lecture by Walter Van Horn. Free and open to the public.
The museum’s Artisans of the World presents “Eskimo Drawings,” a discussion of various drawings done by Inupiat, Yup'ik and Siberian on Thursday, Oct. 25, 7 p.m. Yupik Eskimo artists from the late 19th to mid 20th century show various aspects of Native life along the Bering Sea and the Arctic Ocean. The evening also includes a lecture by Walter Van Horn. Free and open to the public.
On Friday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m., Pamyua! Tribal Funk and World Music will be featured at UNM’s Keller Hall in the Center for the Arts, $15, $10, (students, seniors, children). Tickets are available at www.unmtickets.com or 925-5858, or at the UNM Bookstore box office.
Alaskan Native musicians Pamyua! are winners of the Record of the Year at the Native American Music Awards, were Grammy Award performers and were nominated for the Aboriginal People’s Choice Awards. Pamyua! will wow Albuquerque with traditional Yup’ik songs and world beats. Visit www.pamyua.com. Listen to Pamyua! (MP3 attached with permission by the band.)
On Saturday, Oct. 27, 1-3:30 p.m., Maxwell presents Passport to People Family Program Native Alaskan Ceremonial Life. Find out what it would be like to be a giant whale or try on a gut skin parka or a Qaspeq (kuspek), the traditional dress worn by Inupiat and Yupik boys and girls. Experience Native Alaskan Ceremonial Life through traditional drum making by Ossie Kairaiuak. Visitors will learn to make an Inviting In or Messenger feast mask and hear stories from the Bering Sea region. Free and open to the public.
Saturday night “Celebrate the Maxwell,” from 7-10 p.m., in an evening of ethnic delicacies, international fine cuisine and performances spanning the globe.
Featuring Native Alaskan musicians Pamyua, Leyla Najma Egyptian Cabaret belly dancing, Flamenco by Isabel and Gabriel Fuentes and the Chinese American Citizens Alliance Youth Dance Troupe. Music by Sadaqah and Edward Baca. Tango under the stars!
Enjoy the opening of parts three and four of North by Southwest: Bering Sea Communities, Collaborations and Collections, Maxwell’s 75th anniversary commemorative exhibit. Tickets $25, at the Museum Shop or call 277-4405
Proceeds support cultural programs.
For more information on any event call 277-1400 or visit Maxwell Museum.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
Former Gallup mayor Emmett Garcia, who was abducted in 1973 by two Navajo University of New Mexico students, Larry Casuse and Robert Nakaidene, in a notorious and high profile incident, will speak to the Dale Mason’s Native American Studies class at UNM-Gallup, on Thursday, Oct. 25, at 12:30 p.m. in room 248A in Calvin Hall.
Garcia’s abduction took place in a time of intense Native American activism.
Casuse and Nakaidene allegedly staged the abduction as a protest against Garcia’s support of the Gallup Intertribal Indian Ceremonial and a saloon in Tse Bonito owned by Garcia.
The men, members of the UNM KIVA Club, a Native American organization, took Garcia to a local sporting goods store. Garcia was freed, and then a shootout ensued between Casuse and Nakaidene and local law enforcement officers at the store. Nakaidene surrendered, but Casuse was killed.
A firestorm of controversy broke out regarding culpability in Casuse’s death
as well as the men’s motives. Garcia, who was defeated for re-election after the shooting, has recently stepped forward and announced that he wishes to tell his version of the events of that day.
The University of New Mexico Libraries is issuing a call for submissions to the Premio Aztlán Literary Prize, a national literary award established to encourage and reward emerging Chicana and Chicano authors.
The competition is open to writers who have published a work of fiction in the 2007 calendar year and whose publications do not exceed two books. The winner of the prize will be awarded $1,000 and be invited to give a lecture at the award ceremony to be held at the University of New Mexico in April 2008.
Renowned author Rudolfo Anaya and his wife, Patricia, founded Premio Aztlán in 1993 as a way to encourage beginning authors.
Past award recipients
Reyna Grande (2006) Across a Hundred Mountains
Gene Guerin (2005) Cottonwood Saints
Mary Helen Lagasse (2004) The Fifth Sun
Sergio Troncoso (1999) The Last Tortilla and other Stories
Ronald Ruiz (1998) Giuseppe Rocco
Pat Mora (1997) House of Houses
Wendell Mayo (1996) Centaur of the North
Norma Cantu (1995) Canicula: Snapshots of a Girlhood en la Frontera
Denise Chavez (1994) Face of an Angel
Alicia Gaspar de Alba (1993) The Mystery of Survival and Other Stories
The closing date for entries is Saturday, Dec. 31, 2007. Submissions must include five copies of the book, a letter of interest, or if from the publisher, a letter of nomination and author’s curriculum vitae, resume or background information, which must include a list of published works and any communal involvement with the Chicana/Chicano community.
Submissions must be mailed to the following address by Dec. 31, 2007:
Premio Aztlán Literary Prize
University Libraries, Dean’s Office
MSC05 3020
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131
Contact Teresa Marquez at, andaluz@unm.edu or visit the Web site at: Premio Aztlan.
A search committee chaired by Professor Michael J. Dougher, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at UNM, has selected four finalists for the position of executive director of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center for Health Policy at UNM. They are: Deborah R. McFarlane, José A. Pagán, Kathleen A. Staudt and Robert Otto Valdez.
Each candidate has been invited to UNM for a campus visit and to make a public presentation. Anyone with an interest in health policy is encouraged to attend the candidates’ presentations and to provide feedback to the committee.
Parking passes are available for off-campus visitors. Please call 277-0130 for more information.
Deborah McFarlane
Public presentation - Monday, Oct. 15, 12-1:30 p.m., Location: Student Union Building, Lobo A & B
McFarlane is currently interim executive director of the RWJF Center and a professor with appointments in Political Science and Women’s Studies at UNM. She has served as a visiting professor in the Department of Population & Family Health Sciences in the Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University and as a professor in the School of Public Administration at UNM. McFarlane received her Ph.D. in public health from the University of Texas, a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University, and a Master of Public Health, Population Planning from the University of Michigan.
Robert Valdez
Public presentation - Thursday, Oct. 18, 3-4:30 p.m., UNM Student Union Building, Fiesta A & B
Valdez is the president of Valdez & Associates in Vienna, Va. and adjunct senior health scientist at the RAND Health Sciences Program. He has served as the lead health consultant for a health promotion and disease prevention campaign for Univision, and has been a senior fellow at the Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. Valdez received his Ph.D. in Policy Analysis from the RAND Graduate School, and his master’s in Health Planning and Administration from the University of Michigan.
José Pagán
Public presentation - Monday, Oct. 22, 2:30-4 p.m., UNM Student Union Building, Acoma A & B
Pagán is a professor of economics in the Department of Economics and Finance at the University of Texas-Pan American. He is also director of the Institute for Population Health Policy at UT-Pan American. He has been a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health & Society Scholar at the Wharton School of Business and School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, and he has served as the director of the Center for Border Economic Studies at UT-Pan American. Professor Pagán received his Ph.D. in economics from UNM, and a master’s in economics from Ohio State University.
Kathleen Staudt
Public presentation - Friday, Oct. 26, 12-1:30 p.m., UNM Student Union Building, Sub Theatre (Plaza Level)
Staudt is a Political Science professor and director of the Center for Civic Engagement at the University of Texas at El Paso. She has served as chair of the Department of Political Science and coordinator of the Women’s Studies Program. She has also been a visiting associate professor of Political Science at Scripps College in Claremont, Calif. Staudt received her Ph.D. and master’s degrees in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
UNM School of Law Professor Sherri Burr will offer a two-day course focusing on the law and art on Oct. 19-20 from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Georgia O'Keefe Museum Education Annex in Santa Fe.
During the course, participants will explore legal issues important to artists, museums and gallery owners. Topics will include sessions on ethics, professionalism in art law, and preparation of the necessary forms to donate, copyright, loan, and sell art work.
The course is designed primarily for attorneys, law students, gallery owners and artists. Cost is $349 for lawyers seeking CLE credits, $209 for artists and gallery owners, and $159 for members of Access to Justice, a legal practitioner network that is part of the UNM School of Law's clinical program.
For more information contact Claire Conrad at conrad@law.unm.edu or 277-0080.
Media Contact: Benson Hendrix, (505) 277-1816; e-mail: bhendrix@unm.edu
On Saturday, Oct. 20, survivors of the ongoing atrocities occurring in Sudan's western region of Darfur will share their stories of survival with University of New Mexico staff, students and faculty, as well as members of the local community. The event will start at 2:30 p.m. in the Anthropology Lecture Hall, room 163.
This event is part of the Save Darfur Coalition's Voices from Darfur campaign, a national speaking tour featuring refugees from the beleaguered region of the Sudan. One of the speakers will be Daoud Hari, who spent time in jail in 2006 on false espionage charges. He had been hired as a translator by Paul Salopek, who was reporting on a story for National Geographic magazine.
“The Voices from Darfur tour seeks to ensure that here in Albuquerque, New Mexico we understand the human dimension of the tragedy of Darfur. The millions of Darfuris affected by this genocide are individuals, each of whom has his or her own personal story to tell,” said Jenny Moore, Professor of Law at the University of New Mexico Law School. “The students, staff and faculty of the University of New Mexico welcome Daoud Hari and Amal Allagabo. We look forward to learning and becoming inspired by their call for an end to the genocide.”
Hari and Salopek were released from prison after New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson flew to Sudan and negotiated their release. Hari was granted refugee status by the United States shortly after his release.
Voices from Darfur was launched earlier this summer, highlighting speakers such as Hari, who fled his home in Darfur in 2003 after months of bombing by the Sudanese government. Since February 2003, up to 400,000 people have been killed and 2.5 million displaced in Darfur.
This event is being sponsored by the UNM School of Law, along with the UNM Peace Studies and other departments across campus. For more information, please contact Claire Conrad at conrad@law.unm.edu or call 277-0080.
Media Contact: Benson Hendrix, (505) 277-1816; e-mail: bhendrix@unm.edu
The UNM Latin American and Iberian Institute, Albuquerque International Association and the Center for International Studies will host a talk titled "Two Americas and the United States," by Jane Thery of the Organization of American States (OAS). The event will be held Thursday, Oct. 18 at 3 p.m. at the UNM Hibben Center.
North and South America present statistics of high crime rates, fragile democracies, inadequate courts, persistent poverty and corruption. At the same time, the Americas are plDavid Brookshire of booming exports, vibrant cities, world-class cultures, innovation and social progress. The tensions between these co-existing Americas can explain much of the political and economic dynamic in the hemisphere today.
What are the results of these tensions within Latin America and between North and South, and what are their implications for Latin America in the global economy? How could recognition of this reality condition U.S. foreign policy toward the region? What can be done by Latin American and U.S. leaders to move beyond the Two Americas to create a successful continent and a cooperative hemispheric alliance?
Thery is the Chief for Institutional Relations, Department of External Relations, of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington, D.C. She manages relations with the U.S. Congress, inter-governmental organizations such as the United Nations and the World Bank, universities and “think tanks” for the OAS. Her previous positions within OAS included Principal Specialist of the OAS Summits of the Americas Secretariat Principal Specialist in the Trade Unit of the OAS.
Before joining the OAS, Thery held senior positions with the Institute for International Economics, the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere Affairs, and the University of Maryland's School of Public Affairs. She began her career in Lima, Peru as the Ford Foundation's International Affairs Program Officer for the Andean Region and Southern Cone from 1982-1985.
Thery has consulted for the Inter-American Development Bank, The Rockefeller Foundation, The Pew Charitable Trusts, and Odebrecht Company of Brazil, among other organizations, and has worked in more than 50 countries, primarily in the developing world.
She speaks frequently on U.S. - Latin American economic and foreign policy issues, trade policy and development, with recent lectures at the U.S. Foreign Service Institute, the National Defense University and Yale University.
Arturo Cruz, Jr., Nicaraguan Ambassador to the United States, will give a talk at UNM on Wednesday, Oct. 17 at 2 p.m. Titled “Political Trends in Latin America and Challenges to the Ortega Government in Nicaragua,” the talk will be held at the Latin American and Iberian Institute (LAII) located at 801 Yale Blvd., N.E. A question and answer session will follow the talk, which is free and open to the public.
Cruz, who was was appointed Nicaraguan Ambassador to the United States in February 2007 by President Daniel Ortega, is intimately associated with Nicaragua’s tumultuous recent history and its controversial relationship with the United States, having participated in both the early Sandinista government following the 1979 overthrow of the Somoza dictatorship and the Nicaraguan Resistance during the 1980’s.
Prior to becoming Ambassador, he was professor of political economy at INCAE, the Central American management institute associated with Harvard Business School.
He is the author of several books, including the forthcoming Varieties of Liberalism in Central America: Nation-States as Works in Progress, and his articles on Latin America and the foreign policy of the United States have appeared in such publications as the New Republic, Commentary, The New York Times, Washington Post and Los Angeles Times.
Ambassador Cruz is a graduate of American University and the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies in Washington, D.C. He obtained his Ph.D. in Modern History from Oxford University.
Clean carpet, light walls, rows of computers and rooms for small group study are some of the things students won’t recognize about the basement of Zimmerman Library. The reconstruction, after a serious fire in spring of 2006, will make the basement an exciting place to visit.
Although the shelving still has to be installed, boxes of journals and periodicals are being moved back to New Mexico after being cleaned in Texas. Construction should be complete in early November, and library staff will begin to re-shelve the thousands of volumes that will be available to researchers and students.
The reconstruction will provide new open offices for library staff and a large new computer classroom for students, as well as more individual spDavid Brookshire for students to work on computers. The basement will be open and ready for use at the beginning of the spring semester.
Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
This fall, university students worldwide will sharpen their programming skills as they compete in the world’s most prestigious computer programming competition. The 32nd ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC), sponsored by IBM, will gather the best and brightest computer programmers for an all-out “battle of the brains.”
On Oct. 20, 2007, the University of New Mexico and the University of Arizona will participate in a decisive regional round of problem solving. Teams of three students will be challenged to use their programming skills and rely on their mental endurance to solve complex, real world problems under a grueling five-hour deadline. Tackling these problems is equivalent to completing a semester’s worth of computer programming in one afternoon. The team that solves the most problems correctly in the least amount of time will win a coveted spot on the World Finals roster.
This year’s regional competitions of the ICPC are expected to include 6,099 university teams from 82 countries on six continents, all vying for a spot at the Contest’s World Finals. Ninety talented teams will compete for awards, prizes, scholarships, and bragging rights to the “world’s smartest trophy” April 8-12, 2008, in Banff Springs, Alberta, Canada, hosted by the University of Alberta, which is celebrating its 100th year.
Preparation for the “Real World” of Technology
With the rapid pace of change in today’s IT industry, integrated approaches to business and technology at the university level are essential. Through this collaboration between business and academia, The Contest exposes the brightest college and university information technology students around the globe to open source technologies being adopted by innovative businesses and organizations.
In an increasingly competitive global economy, the IT leaders of tomorrow will be pursuing innovations which will come from a fusion of several different disciplines at the intersection of business and technology –These innovations might include designing an instant translation device to enable people of different languages to overcome language barriers, helping commuters get to work faster through burgeoning mass transit systems, or protecting consumers from theft.
“Future innovation and value creation in our industry will come from the creativity of the next generation of engineers and computer scientists,” said Douglas Heintzman, Director of Strategy, IBM Software Group and Sponsorship Executive of the ICPC. “It is vital that we promote and focus on the pursuit of excellence in the field of information technology. IBM’s commitment to the ICPC is an important investment in the future.”
IBM’s sponsorship of the ACM-ICPC is just one of the company’s many university-facing programs focusing on open standards skills. The IBM Academic Initiative is another, offering colleges and universities a wide range of technology benefits including free access to IBM software, discounted hardware, course materials, training and curriculum development to better educate millions of students for a more competitive IT workforce.
Support the local computer programming talent as they battle it out during the regional competitions of the ACM-ICPC in the hopes of advancing to the World Finals. Stay tuned for regional competition results or visit http://icpc.baylor.edu/icpc/ to get the latest updates. To hear more about this contest, visit www.ibm.com/university/acmcontest to listen to a podcast with Doug Heintzman.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
Allen M. Parkman, Regents’ Professor Emeritus at the Anderson School of Management, has published a new book titled, Smart Marriage: Using Your (Business) Head as Well as Your Heart to Find Wedded Bliss (Praeger, 2007). This innovative book uses business principles to help people make better decisions about all phases of marriage. It suggests, for example, that people should be evaluating prospective spouses as a business partner as well as a lover and that a successful family is similar to a profitable business as it converts inputs into outputs.
Having a successful marriage is the most important goal in most people’s lives and yet many people fail in their attempt to establish it. Why? Too many people are just concluding that times have changed and marital failure is just one of the changes with which we have to live.
He doesn’t buy that. He sees one of the major problems facing people who want a successful marriage is a lack of guidance about the types of decisions that will accomplish that goal. Most people do not appreciate how much more complicated those decisions have become. During most of the past, people had few choices when considering marriage.
Married couples were better off than single adults in very tangible ways such as better homes and meals, so most people wanted to marry. When considering prospective spouses, adults were often constrained to a limited geographic and socioeconomic pool. Having married, necessity had a strong influence on the roles that they assumed.
Few of these constraints still exist and yet people have to make choices—and they have many more than their ancestors. Where can they look for guidance? Certainly, there is a large marital advice literature usually based on a psychological foundation that exposed people to valuable communication and problem solving skills. But, communication about what?
Smart Marriage addresses that question by exposing people to a framework for determining the “what.” A business perspective helps in identifying the preferred characteristics of a spouse, how to find that person and sell yourself to him or her, the roles within marriage that will increase a family’s welfare, the careers that people should pursue, how they can produce quality children, etc.
Not all marriages—or businesses—are successful, so it helps to identify how to avoid divorce—bankruptcy, but also the conditions under which it may be the best choice. It uses insights from business mergers to assist people considering remarriage.
Media Contacts: Leslie Venzuela, (505) 277-7117; e-mail: venzuela@mgt.unm.edu or Erin Gardner, (505) 306-9575; e-mail: news@mgt.unm.edu
Standardized tests often present particular challenges for those outside the cultural context in which the test is written. The University of New Mexico Institute for American Indian Education offers free workshops to help New Mexico’s Native American teachers and pre-service teachers overcome that challenge on the New Mexico Teacher Assessment Test.
IAIE, in the UNM College of Education, will offer the next workshop on Saturday, Oct. 20, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. in the Henderson Fine Arts building, room 9010, at San Juan College in Farmington, N.M.
The New Mexico Teacher Assessment is a mandatory test to fulfill part of the state’s teacher licensure requirements.
Anne Calhoun, UNM associate professor in the Department of Language, Literacy and Sociocultural Studies, said the test’s cultural assumptions can pose a problem for Native American teachers. “Indigenous epistemologies look for ways to explain multiple and contradictory events, while Western epistemology looks for one correct or one better explanation for events,” she said.
Language can also be a barrier. “The teachers primarily have difficulty with the syntax of academic English [on the test] because it neither conforms to their Indigenous languages nor everyday classroom English,” Calhoun said.
Calhoun co-teaches the IAIE Teacher Test Taking workshops with Professor Emerita Anita Bradley Pfeifer. During the workshop, teachers take practice tests and learn relaxation techniques and study and memory skills to help cope with test anxiety.
“We also have them deconstruct the most problematic questions after giving them the correct answers and then have them write the question as it would make sense to them,” Calhoun said. “This deconstruction/reconstruction process helps them understand how test items are made and how to think about the language in them.”
The New Mexico Public Education Department Indian Education Division awarded a grant of $124,953 to fund the Native American Teacher Test Taking workshops and other outreach services to recruit Native students into teaching and revitalize Native languages in an effort to comply with the Indian Education Act of 2003.
In addition to free registration, $30 stipends are available to cover travel expenses. For more information and the registration form, visit Institute for American Indian Education, call (505) 277-7781 or e-mail ptate@unm.edu.
Media Contact: Sari Krosinsky, (505) 277-1593; e-mail: michal@unm.edu
Rosalita del Castill Mitchell, associate professor and chair of the Department of Teacher Education in the College of Education will speak on “Great Acts of Optimism: Teaching and Teacher Education in the Midst of School Reform” at an event on Wednesday, Oct. 31 at 3 p.m. as part of the University Libraries Faculty Acknowledgement series.
Mitchell will discuss her experiences working with the New Mexico Public Education Department to develop the three-tier licensure system now being used in the career ladder for public school teachers. She says that teachers and teacher educators were able to inform policy decisions as the licensure system was developed.
Since 2003, the collaboration they developed with the NM Public Education Department has continued throughout the implementation process of this statewide reform. She will tell the story of how teachers, teacher educators and other stakeholders in the “educator quality” movement have contributed to the way in which high stakes teacher evaluation has evolved in New Mexico.
The University Libraries Faculty Acknowledgement series honors faculty members who have made scholarly contributions in their field.
Media Contacts: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
For more than 30 years, UNM Law School professor Jim Ellis has been a tireless defender of the rights of people with mental disabilities in the civil and criminal justice system. Recently, Ellis argued the case of Atkins v. Virginia before the U.S. Supreme Court - a case in which the court held that the execution of individuals with mental retardation violates the Eighth Amendment's prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment.
UNM will honor Professor Ellis on Thursday, Oct. 25 for his groundbreaking advocacy on behalf of the mentally disabled, and for his being named to the school’s Henry Weihofen Endowed Chair. In addition to the ceremony, a one-hour Continuing Legal Education program will be offered as part of the celebration of Professor Ellis’ professional accomplishments.
Professor Ellis (A.B., 1968, Occidental College; J.D., 1974, University of California, Berkeley, Member of the District of Columbia Bar) joined the UNM law faculty 31 years ago. He has filed briefs in 18 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. He has shared his Supreme Court experience with UNM law students who have assisted him with all of his Supreme Court briefs.
Ellis' interest in mental disability dates to his service at the Yale Psychiatric Institute as a conscientious objector. After law school, he worked at the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law in Washington, D.C., before joining the UNM law faculty.
New York University Law Professor Anthony Amsterdam, one of the most influential legal scholars in the United States, will make a special trip to Albuquerque to help honor his longtime friend and colleague.
“We are delighted that Professor Tony Amsterdam has agreed to join us for this very special occasion,” said UNM Law School Dean Suellyn Scarnecchia. “That a person of Professor Amsterdam’s stature in the legal community would come to honor Jim Ellis speaks volumes about the importance and impact of Jim’s long quest to protect the rights of the mentally disabled.”
Ellis teaches Constitutional Rights, Introduction to Constitutional Law, Rights of Children, Mental Health and Retardation Law, Criminal Law, and Mental Disability in Criminal Cases. He has spent his career writing articles and amicus briefs, and arguing for the rights of people with disabilities before congressional committees and state legislative committees across the country.
Ellis has received numerous national awards for his work, including the National Law Journal's "Lawyer of the Year" honor in 2002. His other honors include the Paul Hearne Award for Disability Advocacy from the American Bar Association; the Call to Action Award by the ARC of the United States; the Champion of Justice Award by the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers; and recognition by the National Historic Trust on Mental Retardation as one of 36 significant individuals in the field of mental retardation in the 20th Century. He has served as a law reporter for the A.B.A. Criminal Justice Standards project and president of the American Association on Mental Retardation.
The Weihofen Chair was established in 2004 to strengthen the law school’s academic program by recognizing distinguished teachers and scholars. It was funded initially by a gift from Professor Henry Weihofen, who taught criminal and constitutional law at UNM from 1948 to 1972, and who was an expert on the relationship between law and psychiatry.
More recently, his son, Bill Weihofen, generously supplemented the fund to allow for the awarding of two Weihofen academic chairs, one to Ellis and the other to Professor Rob Schwartz who will deliver a lecture honoring Ellis at the event.
Media Contact: Benson Hendrix, (505) 277-1816; e-mail: bhendrix@unm.edu
Earlier this year the University of New Mexico Department of Parking and Transportation Services (PATS) announced the creation of a vanpooling service as part of the university's push to increase transportation options for students, staff and faculty. PATS recently announced the first vanpool to begin daily commutes to main campus.
Ruben de la Garza, a system administrator at UNM, is managing a commuting group from the East Mountains. The van departs the Sedillo Hill Park and Ride lot at 7 a.m. “We would also be able to stop in Tijeras at 7:15 for anyone who lives in Cedar Crest or Tijeras,” explains De La Garza. The van leaves UNM at 5:15 p.m. to return to the East Mountains. For those people interested in signing up, October service charge will be waived.
“Vanpooling is a great alternative transportation option for people looking to save money or reduce their greenhouse gas impact on our environment,” said Parking and Transportation Director Clovis Acosta.
The cost will be based on the number or riders in the group and the cost of gasoline – the more riders in the group, the lower the monthly cost.
For further information, please contact Helen Abrahamson, Alternative Transportation Coordinator at 277-0461.
The University of New Mexico Department of Native American Studies will present a screening of “PAATUWAQATSI H2Opi Run to Mexico,” a film documenting a 2,000 mile trek from the Hopi mesas to Mexico City to carry a message to the 2006 World Water Forum. The film will be shown on Wednesday, Oct. 17 at 7:30 p.m. in the Anthropology Lecture Hall, rm. 163.
“PAATUWAQATSI” is directed, shot and edited by Victor Masayesva, Jr. and produced by Black Mesa Trust, a nonprofit organization founded by traditional Hopi farmers and elders to save their aquifer for future generations of Hopi and Navajo children. The director and several runners will participate in the UNM screening.
In the documentary the footfalls of a 78-year-old man and a 13-year-old girl resonate with the sound of sea shells as they run the dirt roads that will take them the 2,000 miles from northern Arizona to Mexico City. They were among 26 runners from the Hopi villages who carried a gourd of water gathered from international waters to convey the message “Water is Life” to world leaders.
For more information contact Beverly Singer at 277-3027 or Native American Studies at 277-3917.
All you need is some hydrogen, some oxygen, a special membrane, a couple of catalysts, and presto—you've got power. Hydrogen fuel cell cars promise pollution-free driving, but will we see them anytime soon? This question and others will be answered at the next KNME Science Café on Saturday, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the National Atomic Museum located at 1905 Mountain Road, N.W.
A short TV segment from an episode of the PBS national series NOVA scienceNow titled “Fuel Cells,” features scientists looking at fuel fells and how they work. Afterward, enjoy a hands-on discussion with local expert and University of New Mexico Professor Dr. G. Dana Brabson, Jr., who will demonstrate Fuels Cells and talk about the future of Fuel Cells in development - right now!
Brabson is actively involved in science education, providing activities and demonstrations in classrooms, and across New Mexico. A Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, with a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry. Brabson’s goal is to get people excited about science and technology through his activities and demonstrations.
Admission to the event is free, however a reservation is required. Call (505) 245-2137, ext. 102 to reserve your spot. Seating is limited.
Six or more times a year, KNME hosts a Science Café, at various locations. The concept is to show clips from an episode of NOVA scienceNOW or a comparable program, with an expert on that topic to answer questions. An open discussion with the audience is also held in a cafe style atmosphere. Take part - or listen to the discussion. It’s fun, it’s casual, it’s laid back.
This KNME Science Café is presented with support from American Chemical Society - Central New Mexico Local Section, New Mexico Tech, and Lockheed Martin/Sandia National Labs.
Media Contact: Evy Todd, (505) 277-1218; e-mail: etodd@knme.org
R. Keith Sawyer, professor of Psychology and Education at Washington University and Robert Galvin, founder of the Galvin Electricity Initiative and retired CEO and Chairman of Motorola offered some provocative ideas at one of several symposia celebrating the installation of UNM President David Schmidly.
The overall theme of the symposium was “Educating for Innovation: Connecting UNM to the World’s Challenges.” Sawyer challenged the audience to consider the idea that innovation today is always collaborative. He said the key task for educators is to prepare learners to participate creatively in today’s knowledge economy.
Students need a deep understanding of complex concepts, an ability to work in teams, and ability to manipulate concepts creatively, and an integrated and contextualized knowledge. Sawyer’s speech was followed by a panel discussion with local leaders from academia, the national labs and the private sector.
Afternoon keynote speaker Robert Galvin made the point that Albuquerque could be the epitome of a leadership community if it seriously undertakes to find the answers to three basic challenges. The challenges are things Galvin believes the U.S. must accomplish in order to progress.
1. How do we make an electric power system that never fails?
2. How can we eliminate traffic congestion?
3. How can we draw up scientific roadmaps we can use to explore the fundamental challenges that must be solved?
Galvin believes so strongly in the first idea that he has founded the Galvin Electricity Initiative as an online discussion of ways to make homes and businesses more efficient and to exchange ideas about improving the national’s electrical infrastructure. More information can be found at http://www.galvinpower.org/.
He told the symposium audience that traffic congestion will be the critical element that determines which cities of the future will thrive. He believes that any city that hasn’t solved its congestion problems by 2050 will be dying.
Galvin also challenged students to write new science roadmaps. He says science is more productive and efficient if researchers have some overall goal in mind as they conduct their research.
Galvin’s speech was followed by a panel of New Mexico industry leaders who are engaged in innovation and energy solutions, including PNM Resources Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Sterba. One of its subsidiaries, the Public Service Company of New Mexico provides electricity to a major part of the state.
Sterba told the group that energy challenges are very complex and that the electrical industry is particular is ripe for innovation. He said the demand for electrical service is expected to increase by 40 percent over the next 25 years, and that the industry will put 900 billion dollars into building infrastructure during that time, not counting the unknown cost of dealing with climate change.
Sterba says one of the biggest changes needed for his industry is an alternative business model. He says currently electric companies make money when they build new power plants and find customers to buy the electricity they generate. There is little financial incentive for electrical companies to encourage conservation or efficiency for homes or businesses.
The symposium was one of six meant to challenge faculty, staff and students to pause and talk about the big questions facing the university and the nation during the next few decades. It was sponsored by the UNM School of Engineering the Anderson School of Management, the Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, Mesa del Sol, Albuquerque Economic Development and STC.UNM.
A memorial ride for James Quinn – a first-year law student at the University of New Mexico School of Law who was killed in a bicycle-car accident on Sept. 15 while riding on Old Route 66 outside of Albuquerque – will be held on Saturday, Oct. 13.
The silent ride will leave the UNM School of Law at 9 a.m. and meet with additional riders at the Smith's grocery store at Tramway and Central at 10 a.m. A Bernalillo County sherriff's department escort will lead the riders to the site of Quinn's accident on Old Route 66 in Tijeras Canyon where he will be remembered with flowers, words and a white bicycle that will remain at the site as a lasting tribute.
According to BikeABQ, Albuquerque's bicycle advocacy group, the memorial ride is intended to call attention to the increasing number of injuries and fatalities on New Mexico streets and highways and to ask drivers to be more careful in sharing the road with bicyclists.
Quinn's widow, Ashley, and his sister, Kate, will join the ride, and his mother will follow in her car and a support and gear wagon will provide support for the riders. For more information, contact Diane Albert at dalbert@newmexico.com or Roland Penttila at roland@bikeabq.org.
The American Society for Microbiology (ASM) has selected Kathryn Frietze from the University of New Mexico as a 2007-2010 award recipient of the Robert D. Watkins Graduate Research Fellowship. Frietze is awarded up to $21,000 annual stipend for three years to conduct research.
The Watkins Fellowship seeks to increase the number of graduate students from underrepresented groups completing doctoral degrees in the microbiological sciences. The program is aimed at highly competitive students who are enrolled in a Ph.D. program and have completed their graduate coursework in the microbiological sciences. Fellows and their mentors are required to be members of ASM.
Fellows will be required to present at the ASM General Meeting annually if their abstract is accepted and attend the ASM Kadner Institute, formerly known as the ASM Graduate and Postdoctoral Summer Institute in Preparation for Careers in Microbiology one time during the three-year tenure of the fellowship.
This year, 55 applications were received and six were awarded. Of the six awardees, five students were from doctoral/research universities-extensive institutions, and one student was from a specialized institution.
Adriana Kajon is Kathryn Frietze's mentor. The title of the research is the 'Characterization of novel subspecies B1 adenovirus E3 proteins.'
The American Society for Microbiology (ASM), headquartered in Washington, D.C., is the oldest and largest single biological membership organization, with over 40,000 members worldwide. Visit: American Society for Microbiology for more information on this fellowship.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
Steve Peralta, the director of Engineering Student Services at the University of New Mexico, will receive the “Outstanding MAEStro Award” from the Society of Mexican American Engineers and Scientists, Inc. at the annual meeting on Oct. 26, 2007 in Albuquerque.
The MAEStro award recognizes individuals for their proactive and supporting efforts to increase the number of Latino students successfully completing high school and pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees.
MAES was founded in Los Angeles in 1974 and has a goal of increasing the number of Latinos, especially those of Mexican American descent, in science, technology, engineering and mathematics by creating opportunities and fostering recognition through profession, technical and outreach activities.
Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
New Mexico In Focus airs on Friday, Oct. 12 at 7 p.m. & repeats Sunday, Oct. 14 at 6:30 a.m.
'New Mexico In Focus' is KNME, Channel 5’s newly reconceived and invigorated prime-time news magazine show covering the events, issues and people that are shaping life in New Mexico and the Southwest. This week’s topics include: Immigrant children in New Mexico; Immigrant children gaining citizenship by going to college or joining the military; and Senate candidate carousel.
Guest's this week include:
* Marcela Diaz, Executive Director, Somos Un Pueblo Unido
* Mayte Garcia, Daughter of Undocumented Immigrants
* Eric Griego, Executive Director, New Mexico Voices for Children
* Martin Gutierrez, Former Executive Director, LULAC New Mexico
Co-Hosted by Santa Fe Reporter staff writer David Alire Garcia and local Tribune columnist Gene Grant, New Mexico In Focus takes a multi-layered look at social, political, economic, health, education and arts issues and explores them in-depth, with a critical eye to give them context beyond the "news of the moment."
Regular Commentators/Panelists
* Hosts: Gene Grant and David Alire Garcia
* Margaret Montoya, UNM Schools of Law and Medicine
* Whitney Cheshire, political consultant; blogger, Wednesday Morning QB
* Jim Scarantino, Weekly Alibi Columnist
The producer of New Mexico In Focus is Kevin McDonald. Support for the show has been provided by McCune Charitable Foundation. Closed Captioning has been made possible by a gift from Mrs. Elspeth G. Bobbs.
Media Contact: Evy Todd, (505) 277-1218; e-mail: etodd@knme.org
Beginning Wednesday, Oct. 17 the faculty at UNM’s Anderson School of Management will present a series of seven lectures in seven months. Topics will be selected by presenting faculty members and will address intriguing issues that will be of interest to a broad range of individuals from the business community to the public as well as students, staff, alumni, and other faculty at UNM. The talks will take place each month on a Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. in the new Anderson Student Center. The lectures are free and open to the public.
The lecture series will kick off on Oct. 17 with Anderson Professor Dr. Sul Kassicieh discussing Economic Development and New Mexico. It will be followed by Accounting for Poverty by Dr. Alistair Preston on Nov. 14 and Dr. Charles Crespy will examine Lessons for Global Integration on Dec. 19.
In 2008, Dr. Jeanne Logsdon, Rust Professor of Business Ethics will present Dealing with Conflicts of Interest in Business and the Professions on January 16, Dr. Joseph E. Champoux looks at Designing Engaging and Interactive Fully On-Line Courses on Feb. 20 and on March 12 Dr. O.C. Ferrell offers Conversations with Ken Lay: Reflections on the Enron Disaster and to Prevent Ethical Misconduct Disasters.
The lecture series will conclude on Wednesday, April 16 with Dr. Jackie Hood discussing Bullying in the Workplace: Challenges to Preserving an Ethical Organization.
Media Contacts: Leslie Venzuela, (505) 277-7117; e-mail: venzuela@mgt.unm.edu or Erin Gardner, (505) 306-9575; e-mail: news@mgt.unm.edu
The UNM Bookstore invites everyone to attend a book discussion with Amy Schwartz on Saturday, Oct. 13, from 12 to 2 p.m. Schwartz will talk about the book, “Transform Your Life,” by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Understanding Tibetan Buddhism is not always easy for the non-Tibetan, despite the popularity and moral authority of the Dalai Lama. Tibetan monk Geshe Kelsang Gyatso has proven a popular and accessible authority on the spirituality of Buddhist Tibet, and his newest work is intended as a practical guide to transforming one's life by understanding the nature of love and managing one's anger.
Included also are translations of two important texts from the Kadampa tradition: Advice from Atisha's Heart and Je Tsongkhapa's Three Principal Aspects of the Faith.
Gyatso's book is a worthy addition to the growing body of treatments of Tibetan Buddhism for a Western audience and should find a readership where books on Tibet and the Dalai Lama are popular. For most collections.
Your UNM Bookstore on Central Ave. at Cornell Dr. is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Park in Cornell Parking Structure and get validated for up to one hour with purchase.
Media Contact: Anicia Esposito, (505) 277-9752; e-mail: aespo@unm.edu
NPS and UNM Partnership Celebrate 100 Years of Chaco
The University of New Mexico and the National Park Service celebrate the opening of the Chaco Collection at UNM’s Hibben Center on Friday, Oct. 12, from 1-4:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
Opening remarks from NPS and UNM officials will be followed by tours by Wendy Bustard, curator. Light refreshments will be served.
A forum on research and partnership with UNM, “The Past 100 Years of History at Chaco Canyon,” will follow the tours from 3-5 p.m. Individuals from NPS, UNM and the Navajo Nation will talk about the history of Chaco, collections, the Navajo Nation Chaco Protection Sites Program and even explore the Chaco Digital Initiative as a way to explore ways to expand Chaco knowledge. The presentations also include ideas on continuing the NPS/UNM partnership.
“The goal of this event is to commemorate the opening of the new NPS facility by inviting interested community members, acknowledging assistance of and partnership with UNM and the New Mexico delegation, and providing special tours,” Bustard said.
Among invited guests are representatives from the New Mexico congressional delegation, NPS Superintendent Barbara West and UNM President David Schmidly.
The collaboration between UNM and NPS dates back to the founding of the Chaco Culture National Historical Park in 1907. Edgar Lee Hewett, founder of UNM’s anthropology department, the Museum of New Mexico and the School of American Research, was instrumental in passing the Antiquities Act of 1906, which led to the creation of Chaco Canyon National Monument the following year.
UNM had partial ownership in the monument; acquired sections from the SAR,
and all state sections were deeded back to the federal government in 1949. Hewett conducted research in Chaco Canyon at Chetro Ketl in the 1920s and early 30s. The UNM/SAR Archaeology Field School built research facilities in Chaco Canyon and excavated several small sites from 1935-’47. As a result, UNM holds extensive and important collections from Chaco Canyon. The collections complement the NPS collections and provide researchers an opportunity to study the full range of Chaco material culture.
UNM and NPS signed a memorandum of understanding in 1949 when UNM deeded its parkland to the National Park Service. As a result, the NPS granted UNM “perpetual preferential rights” to conduct scientific research in Chaco Canyon.
The MOU was renegotiated to establish the joint NPS-UNM Chaco Project, which was designed to determine through survey, excavation and multi-disciplinary research, the relationship between the environment and the prehistoric inhabitants of Chaco Canyon. The Chaco Project was based in the UNM Department of Anthropology and funded by the NPS from 1970-85.
For more information, contact Wendy Bustard, 346-2871 x 201.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
It was momentous. Even for those who have witnessed other inaugurations, the week of symposia and the campus wide open house leading up to and the installation of Dr. David J. Schmidly as the University of New Mexico’s 20th president, was inspiring. The symposia brought the campus and broader community together, to connect – Schmidly’s inaugural theme – to participate in discourse and gain greater understanding of critical research that are hallmarks of a world-class university.
Using its own expertise and that of other national experts, UNM looked at 40 years of community activism and civil rights reform, natural history, its own wealth of museums and collections, education and technology, health policy and connecting athletics and academics.
On Saturday, the university opened its doors and welcomed 2,500 prospective and current students and their parents, as well as the community to meet UNM people, explore UNM plDavid Brookshire and peak at UNM programs. The doors opened to a student research expo, a student/faculty art show, student exchange opportunities, parent networking and even a chance for parents to hear from a nationally acclaimed expert on parents of college students.
It all led up to a sunny Sunday afternoon, where everyone gathered in Popejoy Hall to witness Schmidly’s installation. Images of the campus and its people were flashed on a screen. Later, a video described and demonstrated what UNM is all about. With students and their success as the primary mission, images of the plDavid Brookshire where they meet to learn, grow, explore and play, presented a snapshot of UNM in 2007.
Members of the UNM community – Thelma Domenici from the UNM Foundation; Ashley Fate, ASUNM; Joseph Garcia, GPSA; Ilse Gay, Retiree Association; Jackie Hood, Faculty Senate; Lillian Montoya-Rael, Alumni Association; and Vanessa Shields, Staff Council, all presented formal greetings to the new president.
UNM Regents President Jamie Koch installed President David Schmidly. In his inaugural address, Schmidly did not stray from the course and message he established shortly after his arrival.
“In facing up to the challenge of raising our graduation rate and improving student retention, we must resist the temptation to lower our standards. To do so would be to mock our vision of excellence. Let me make this clear. Lowering standards is something we cannot do, that we must not do, that we simply will not do,” he said.
“Rather than patronize our students by lowering their horizons, we must challenge those students to excellence. It was Michelangelo who said, ‘The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short, but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark,’” he added.
He said that UNM faculty, staff and students need to “redouble our efforts to provide the extra assistance to those who need it. Let us engage the work of better preparing the students of tomorrow. Let us be willing to take a new and different approach to higher education, one that dares to cross barriers into grades K-through-12 and to work in partnership with our colleagues in the community colleges.”
Schmidly noted that a partnership with CNM has already been established. “Our objective is to move students seamlessly, from CNM to UNM, and from an associates toward a university degree."
Following the ceremony and recessional, people gathered at University House for refreshments at stations from around the world and to congratulate UNM’s 20th president.
The University of New Mexico has been identified as one of “America’s 100 Best College Buys” by Institutional Research & Evaluation, Inc. a private research firm. UNM has been featured in the report for each of the past 12 years it has been in existence.
“The fact that UNM has been included in this top 100 ranking since its beginning is a testament to what we want prospective students and families to realize,” said Interim Vice President for Enrollment Management Terry Babbitt. “You can get a top tier education here in a vast number of disciplines for a cost that is well under the national average. This is more about quality than value, but it is great when you can get both.”
The report features universities throughout the United States. Yearly in-state tuition, fees and residence hall costs for a full-time student taking 30 credit hours at UNM is $11,270. That is lower many other schools in the region such as Texas Tech University where a student paying in-state tuition and living in a dorm would spend $14,300.
In order to be considered for the designation, an institution must be an accredited four-year institution offering bachelor’s degrees, have full residential facilities, have an entering freshman class for fall 2006 with a high school grade point average or SAT/ACT scores equal to or above the national average for entering college freshmen. The cost for an out-of-state student must have been below the national average cost of attendance or not exceeding the national average cost by more than 10 percent.
The UNM Center for the Southwest kicks off its fall film series with “Laramie Inside Out” on Wednesday, Oct. 17 at 5:30 p.m. in Rodey Theater in the UNM Center for the Arts. Filmmaker Beverly Seckinger will be on hand following the screening to discuss the film. In the film, Seckinger, a Laramie native, returns home to the site of her own closeted adolescence to investigate the impact of Matthew Shepard’s 1998 murder.
She encounters students, teachers, parents and clergy suddenly moved to speak out and take social action.
After the film, the audience will have a chance to ask questions of the filmmaker and hear her thoughts on its production.
The film and discussion are free and open to the public.
For more information, call Sarah Payne at 277-7688 or e-mail, cntrsw@unm.edu
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: gconzal@unm.edu
Faculty, staff and students at UNM are invited to learn how to secure their work and home computers Tuesday, Oct. 9, at the Health Sciences Center, and Wednesday-Thursday, Oct. 10-11, at the Anderson Student Center on main campus. The event at the HSC will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., while the event at the Anderson Student Center will last from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days. Held annually in October, this event is part of National CyberSecurity Awareness Month. Universities across the nation, including UNM, are participating.
Industry experts will be on hand to discuss management and computing forensics, and UNM’s Information Technology security staff will also be available to make contact with faculty, staff and students on computer issues and concerns.
On Oct. 9, the event’s focus will be on the Health Sciences Center. On Oct. 10, an emphasis will be on student computing and access security, as well as a featured laptop security check. On Oct. 11, the emphasis will be on departmental security for faculty and staff, including identity theft, client system security and security investigating.
For a complete list of events for UNM Security Days visit: UNM Security Days.
UNM’s Security Days is sponsored by the Center for Information Assurance, Research & Education (CIARE), the Anderson School of Management, Information Technology Services and the Health Sciences Center. Corporate sponsors include Dell, Aquila, INX, TEK Systems Cisco and Identiphi.
For more information on UNM Security Days visit: UNM Security Days. For more information on general computer security visit: General Computer Security.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
The Department of English presents “Science, Technology, and Aesthetics in the Nineteenth Century,” a lecture series that explores the enchantment of Darwin, the excitement of early flash photography and the telegraph’s rewiring of the human mind. The free lectures are on Thursdays, Oct. 18, Nov. 1 and Nov. 8, at 7 p.m. in Dane Smith Hall, Rm. 125 on the UNM campus.
“We hope that the university and broader community will join us to consider the ways in which artists, writers and scientists of the past confronted some of today’s most exciting and vexing issues: the relation of the human and natural worlds, the impact of new technologies and media on identity and art, and the tension between the secular and the sacred,” said Aeron Hunt, UNM assistant professor of English.
October 18
George Levine, Kenneth Burke Professor of English (emeritus), Rutgers University, “Darwin Loves You”
November 1
Kate Flint, professor of English, Rutgers University, “Flash! Surprising Illumination in the Nineteenth Century”
November 8
Paul Gilmore, associate professor of English, California State University, Long Beach, “Melville, the Novel, and the Telegraphic Mind”
UNM, the New Mexico Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities funded the lecture series. For more information, visit http://www.unm.edu/~english/ or call Aeron Hunt at 277-6230.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
The gala 30th annual Zia Marching Band Fiesta will be held on Saturday, Oct. 27 at University Stadium. Sponsored by the University of New Mexico Bands, the event features thirty-two high school marching bands from New Mexico, Texas and Colorado competing to become Zia Grand Champion.
Approximately 3,000 high school students will participate in the fiesta before a crowd of parents, band boosters and other spectators. The judging panel is comprised of experts in the field of marching band and pageantry from across the United States.
The preliminary competition begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends with a performance by the UNM Spirit Marching Band at 4:45 p.m., followed by a presentation of trophies for the preliminary round. The top 10 bands from the preliminary round advance to the final round of competition, beginning at 7:30 p.m. At the conclusion of the Finals Competition, the 2007 Zia Grand Champion will be crowned.
Tickets are available only at the gate on the day of contest at University Stadium. Prices range from $4 to $7 for students and $8 to $14 for adults.
For more information call 277-8998.
With Hispanics now the largest U.S. minority group, there has been increasing national interest about Mexican Americans, who make up two-thirds of all Hispanics. University of New Mexico Professor Laura E. Gómez has published a new book which provides answers about the early history of Mexican Americans in the U.S. The book, “Manifest Destinies: The Making of the Mexican American Race,” will be out Oct. 5 from New York University Press.
Gómez, who has three-quarters of her UNM appointment at the School of Law and one-quarter in the College of Arts and Sciences' American Studies Department (she is the only professor jointly appointed between the two UNM schools), focuses on the experience of "the first Mexican Americans"--the 115,000 Mexicans who became American citizens by virtue of the peace treaty that ended the U.S. war with Mexico in 1848. The war resulted in increasing by more than one-third the land mass of the U.S., adding all or part of eight western states where almost 85 million Americans live today.
"Many Americans view Manifest Destiny as a moment of national triumph before the dark years of conflict over slavery that culminated in the Civil War," says Gómez, but the truth is considerably more complicated. "Manifest Destinies, as used in the book's title, is at once a reference to the ideology of Manifest Destiny as wrapped up in race and racism and is, at the same time, about how the competing destinies of many groups--including Pueblo Indians, other Indians, Euro-Americans, African Americans, and Mexican Americans--came together to ultimately produce the Mexican American race and permanently change the American racial order at the turn of the twentieth century."
“Manifest Destinies” focuses a great deal on New Mexico history, since two-thirds of all Mexican Americans in 1850 lived in present-day New Mexico (the remaining one-third was divided between California and Texas). Gómez draws on her expertise in the fields of law, history, and sociology to explain why New Mexico remained in political limbo as a federal territory for so long before gaining statehood in 1912.
Gómez, who was born in Roswell in 1964 and grew up in Albuquerque where she attended public schools in the North Valley, is a graduate of Harvard and Stanford universities. At Stanford, she completed a law degree (J.D.) and Ph.D. in Sociology in six years. She went on to become a tenured professor at UCLA, where she taught for 12 years. Gómez returned to New Mexico to permanently join the UNM faculty in 2005.
Gómez will be traveling nationally to launch “Manifest Destinies.” In Albuquerque and Santa Fe, she has the following book signings scheduled: Nov. 1, UNM Bookstore; Dec. 6, National Hispanic Cultural Center; Dec. 14, Collected Works in Santa Fe.
Gómez is available for media interviews and the publisher welcomes media requests for review copies of “Manifest Destinies.”
Media Contact: Benson Hendrix, (505) 277-1816; e-mail: bhendrix@unm.edu
Maxwell Museum continues to celebrate its 75th anniversary with a series of events featuring music, art and food from Thursday, Oct. 25 through Saturday, Oct. 27.
On Thursday, Oct. 25, at 7 p.m., Artisans of the World presents “Eskimo Drawings,” a lecture by Walter Van Horn that is free and open to the public. On Friday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m., Pamyua! Tribal Funk and World Music will be featured at Keller Hall in the UNM Center of the Arts.
Tickets are $15, $10, (students, seniors, children) and are available at www.unmtickets.com or 925-5627, the box office at the UNM Bookstore.
The Passport to People Family Program: Native Alaskan Ceremonial Life takes place Saturday, Oct. 27, from 1-3:30 p.m. at the Maxwell Museum. The event is free and open to the public. Come back Saturday evening, Oct. 27, from 7-10 p.m. for Celebrate the Maxwell!
The evening includes ethnic delicacies, international fine cuisine and live performances. The exhibit opening: North by Southwest: Bering Sea Communities, Collaborations and Collections, parts 3 & 4 will take place. Tickets are $25. For reservations and tickets, call 277-4405. Proceeds from the event will support cultural programs at the museum.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
T. Zane Reeves, Regents' Professor Emeritus in the UNM School of Public Administration (SPA), was recently inducted into the National Academy of Arbitrators (NAA) at its Fall Education Conference held in Miami, Fla. Reeves, who has served as an arbitrator, mediator and fact finder for more than 20 years, becomes only the fourth member in the state of New Mexico to be recognized as a member of the prestigious Academy.
Two of the other arbitrators in the state of New Mexico recognized as members of the Academy include Patrick Halter and Don Petersen. Both serve as adjunct faculty members in the SPA, while Reeves is currently a “working retiree.”
Reeves has published numerous journal articles and consulted with private and public sector organizations in areas of performance appraisal, discipline, grievance handling, dispute resolution and labor-management relations. He serves on labor and employment arbitration panels of the American Arbitration Association, Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, US Postal Service/APWU, Tinker Air Force Base/AFGE, US Postal Service/NALC and Rio Grande Credit Union.
He is an arbitrator and grievance hearing officer for the City of Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Rio Rancho, Albuquerque T-VI, Gallup, Roswell, Lake Havasu City, as well as the County of Bernalillo, Curry, Dona Ana, and Maricopa. Reeves has also provided consulting services to the governments of Kazakhstan, Hungary, Somalia, Oman, Brazil, and the Navajo and Jicarilla Apache nations.
The National Academy of Arbitrators began in Chicago in 1947. The non-profit professional and honorary organization of arbitrators is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the highest professional standards of practice, including integrity, competence, honor and character among in the field of labor and employment arbitration.
For more information on the National Academy of Arbitrators visit: NAARB.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
The UNM School of Engineering has announced five alumni who are the winners of the 2007 Distinguished Engineering Alumni Awards. The awards are chosen through a nomination process that includes alumni and other engineering professionals. Honorees are chosen for their contributions to the community, their profession and to the world in which we live. The 2007 Distinguished Engineering Alumni include Harold R. Bosch, Adrian B. Chernoff, Sajjad H. Durrani, Thomas J. Nesbitt and Heinz W. Schmitt.
Harold R. Bosch, BSCE - 1971
Bosch is the director of the Aerodynamics Laboratory at the Turner Fairbank Highway Research Center of the Federal Highway Administration and is an internationally recognized expert in wind engineering. In his more than 35-year career with the FHWA, he has significantly impacted the wind engineering of highway structures.
In addition to his laboratory work, Bosch has done pioneering work in long-term monitoring of bridges and in improving analytical wind models used for long bridge spans.
Adrian B. Chernoff, BSME/MSME – 1996/1999
Chernoff is a prolific inventor who holds 54 U.S. and foreign patents. He also has 50 patents pending and more than 800 documented ideas. He was the principal inventor for a technology breakthrough vehicle, the Reinvention of the Automobile (GM AUTOnomy, GM Carousel, GM-HyWire, GM Sequel) and has worked for Walt Disney Imagineering, Sandia National Labs and NASA.
Chernoff is currently working on several start-ups, including a Web site dedicated to individuals who change the world. It can be accessed at http://www.MUZZ.com.
Sajjad H. Durrani, ScD EE - 1963
Durrani is a world renowned expert in satellite communications. He performed work for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) which is used as the primary relay for earth observation satellites, the Hubble Space Telescope and the Space Shuttle. He has managed NASA research on the subject, including the program management for the Advanced Communication Technology Satellite (ACTS).
In addition, Durrani taught engineering in Pakistan for 10 years and has served as an adjunct professor at George Washington University and the University of Maryland.
Thomas J. Nesbitt, BSCE – 1948
Nesbitt was the city engineer for Mesa, Arizona from 1948-1955, when he left to found Nesbitt Contracting Company. He also founded Century Materials to provide raw materials, and used recycled asphalt pavement to save time and money in road building and repair.
In 1981 he launched Arizona Pavement Profiling, which set the standard for quality milling in the southwest. Landmark projects include work on the Phoenix International Raceway, Scottsdale Airport and Cardinal Stadium.
Heinz W. Schmitt, MSMS – 1962
Schmitt has served 36 years with Sandia National Laboratories, advancing from technical staff member to Chief Engineer and Vice President of Weapons Systems with responsibility for 1,600 employees and a $400 million budget.
Schmitt made significant contributions to national security with his leadership in nuclear weapons technology and policy development and in management of the nation’s nuclear deterrent though his participation in several high level federal government committees.
Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
New Mexico In Focus airs on Friday, Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. & repeats Sunday, Oct. 7 at 6:30 a.m.
'New Mexico In Focus' is KNME, Channel 5’s newly reconceived and invigorated prime-time news magazine show covering the events, issues and people that are shaping life in New Mexico and the Southwest. This week’s topics include: Long-time New Mexico Sen. Pete Domenici Shocks the Political World by Calling an End to His Political Career; The Medical Marijuana Debate Rages On; and The Albuquerque Municipal Elections – Winners, Losers, Low Voter Turnout & $100,000,000 Worth of Bond Issues.
Co-Hosted by Santa Fe Reporter staff writer David Alire Garcia and local Tribune columnist Gene Grant, New Mexico In Focus takes a multi-layered look at social, political, economic, health, education and arts issues and explores them in-depth, with a critical eye to give them context beyond the "news of the moment."
Regular Commentators/Panelists
* Hosts: Gene Grant and David Alire Garcia
* Margaret Montoya, UNM Schools of Law and Medicine
* Whitney Cheshire, political consultant; blogger, Wednesday Morning QB
* Jim Scarantino, Weekly Alibi Columnist
Guest's this week include:
* Danny Hernandez, Albuquerque Metro Arroyo Flood Control Authority, chairman
* Antoinette Sedillo-Lopez, UNM Law School
* Reena Szczepanski, director, Drug Policy Alliance New Mexico
* Alfredo Vigil, secretary, New Mexico Department of Health
The producer of New Mexico In Focus is Kevin McDonald. Support for the show has been provided by McCune Charitable Foundation. Closed Captioning has been made possible by a gift from Mrs. Elspeth G. Bobbs.
Media Contact: Evy Todd, (505) 277-1218; e-mail: etodd@knme.org
The Department of Community Learning and Public Service (CLPS) in the UNM College of Education will celebrate 10 years of serving New Mexico’s communities Friday, Oct. 5, from 2:45 to 6 p.m. on the southwest plaza outside the UNM Student Union Building.
Dr. Ira Harkavy, associate vice president of the University of Pennsylvania, and director of the nationally and internationally recognized Center, will highlight the event with a talk for Community Partnerships at Penn. The talk, titled “The Civic Mission of Universities,” will be held from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the Mirage / Thunderbird Room of the Student Union Building.
In a very short time, CLPS has come to act as an academic partnership and policy center for communities, neighborhoods, and villages striving to implement more community-driven learning projects for their children, youth and families. In order to support this work, CLPS operates as a campus wide linking resource office for more effectively bringing students, faculty, academic units, communities and citizens together to participate in shared learning and community problem solving.
CLPS was formed by faculty, staff and students and community members interested in better mobilizing the UNM's resources and talents towards an ever increasing civic engagement. Supported by and based within the College of Education, CLPS now serves the entire campus and the state of New Mexico.
For more information contact the UNM Community Learning & Public Service visit: Community Learning & Public Service or call, 277-9523.
The 9th annual New Mexico Data Users Conference will be held on Thursday, Nov. 8 at 7:30 a.m. at the UNM Continuing Education Conference Center, 1634 University Blvd., N.E. The annual event is presented by UNM’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BBER).
This year’s speakers are from a variety of organizations, including BBER, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the Mid-Region Council of Governments. The conference will feature a plenary session, nine breakout sessions and a luncheon presentation.
Included are various topics related to Census Bureau data and programs—Census 2010, the American Community Survey, the American FactFinder web site, and use of census data to describe the State’s racial and ethnic diversity. The Census Bureau’s DataFerret data mining and extraction tool will also be covered.
Additional sessions will address research and data applications, including analysis and impacts of the Santa Fe Living Wage, planning and implementation of the Rail Runner Express, trade area analysis in small New Mexico towns, and geocoding challenges facing the BBER Population Estimates Program. Availability of annual socioeconomic data for sub-state areas such as counties, cities and school districts will also be covered.
Larry Waldman, BBER senior economist, will be the luncheon speaker, presenting a review of New Mexico’s recent economic performance and a short-term economic outlook.
The conference will provide information about complex socioeconomic databases and a sense of how these data are applied in practical situations. Over the years, the conference has become a valued learning experience for businesses, government agencies, service organizations, information providers, and students.
Registration is $50 per person and includes all conference materials, continental breakfast, beverage breaks and a luncheon buffet. For more information and a registration form visit BBER’s Web site at: BBER Conference, or call 277-3038 or 277-8300.
The College of Education at the University of New Mexico will undergo a program review by state and national agencies from Oct. 3-10. The state of New Mexico's Public Education Department (PED) and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) will provide a state team and a national team for the accreditation review.
The state team will arrive Oct. 3 and complete its assessment on Friday. A national team, consisting of three of the state team members will join the national team for its visitation through Wednesday, Oct. 10. The reviews are ongoing to determine continuing accreditation at the national level and program approval by the State of New Mexico.
All programs that lead to initial teaching licensure, advanced licensure for counseling and the principalship, and advanced continuing education for teachers will participate in an accreditation visitation.
The review will be guided by national standards and state competencies for assuring teacher preparation accountability to the professional communities which the College serves.
For more information on the NCATE visit: NCATE. For more information on the UNM College of Education visit: College of Education.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
A new conservation campaign has begun at the UNM Student Union Building that encourages the campus community to develop environmentally friendly habits by being “Red and Green,” which represent Lobo pride (red) and environmentally friendly thinking (green).
The program, which recently started, is designed to educate the UNM community in the ways of conservation on main campus. The program encourages environmentally friendly habits such as using e-mail, whenever practical (instead of printing) and carrying a refillable water bottle instead of using disposable water bottles. The program will also provide information on where recycling bins are located in the SUB, and what can be recycled at each location.
UNM community members who want to commit to participate in the “Red and Green” campaign are asked to take the “Red and Green” pledge by signing the banner located at the SUB welcome desk or online at: Red and Green.
Once the “Red and Green” banner is full of signatures, it will be displayed at the SUB, showing UNM’s commitment to save the environment. A handful of those who sign the pledge will be selected to receive a “Red and Green” t-shirt or SUB refillable water bottle.
Those interested in learning more about the program or getting involved can visit the SUB’s Web site at: UNM Student Union Building or by calling 277-7885.
Media Contact: Matt Henderson, (505) 277-7885; e-mail: edge7@unm.edu
In conjunction with the Explore UNM inaugural open house Saturday, Oct. 6, UNM Taos International Programs will present an art exhibit in the upper level lobby of the Student Union Building from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Photo: UNM-Taos branch students in China.
The art work is inspired by studies in China and created by UNM Taos students and faculty. All the proceeds from the art sale portion of the exhibit will support the UNM Taos International Programs Scholarship Fund.
For more information about UNM Taos International Programs, contact huang@unm.edu, (505) 776-5126 or visit Taos International Programs.
Media Contact: Laurie Mellas, (505) 277-5915; e-mail: lmellas@unm.edu
Freshmen retention at the University of New Mexico has reached an all-time high, with 76.6 percent of students returning for a second year in fall 2007. In addition, retention of Hispanic freshman jumped more than three percent, from 73.1 percent in 2006 to 76.8 percent in 2007.
The numbers reflect first-time, full-time students who began coursework at UNM in summer or fall 2006.
Peter White, dean of University College, said that the freshman year is typically the most difficult at colleges nationwide. “If you can get through the first year the chances of success dramatically increase,” he said.
White said the improvement in retention may be attributed to a combination of new student success programs and efforts to build on existing programs. He said it’s a multi-faceted endeavor, with programs throughout the university supporting students at every level of academic achievement.
Another factor is the Lottery Success Scholarship. In 2006-07, freshman participation reached an all-time high, with 75 percent of eligible freshman receiving the scholarship, four percent higher than any previous year. Vice Provost Wynn Goering said the scholarship helps motivate students to strive for success – particularly in their first semester, the only time students can qualify. “The longer the lottery scholarship goes on, the closer the connection to retention is,” he said.
Two new programs that help students retain the lottery scholarship are the Summer Success Scholarships and winter intersession classes. These programs give students an opportunity to make up the lottery scholarship’s minimum credit hour requirements for the spring and fall semesters, respectively.
University College offers a slate of Freshman Academic Choices to help students make the transition to college life. The programs are centered on community building, forging close, personal bonds between students and faculty and within peer groups. These personal connections can help keep students coming back.
Through the Research Service Learning Program, students connect with communities beyond UNM. RSLP Director Dan Young said in the past year students – including 221 freshman – contributed $518,000 worth of community service through the program. White said the practical experience enhances what students learn in the classroom. “What they read becomes more meaningful to them,” he said.
Another program contributing to freshmen retention is the College Enrichment Program, which provides first generation and underrepresented students with freshman orientation and support services throughout their college careers. New this year is the Parental Advisory Council, through which CEP helps parents help students to succeed.
Media Contact: Sari Krosinsky, (505) 277-1593; e-mail: michal@unm.edu
On behalf of the Honorary Degree Committee, the University of New Mexico Office of the University Secretary seeks nominations for honorary degree recipients. Nominations are due Friday, Oct. 19.
Honorary degrees are awarded to persons who have contributed significantly to the cultural or scientific development of the Southwest, or to the spiritual or material welfare of its people. Eminent individuals and scholars who have made significant contributions transcending geographic limitations are also eligible. A successful nominee must have an exemplary record of academic or public accomplishment in keeping with the university’s standards of rigor, quality and significance.
Nominators must submit a cover letter detailing the reasons for the nomination. Submissions should also include the nominee’s biographical information, record of accomplishment and supporting letters. Send all materials to the Office of the University Secretary, Scholes Hall, room 103.
The Honorary Degree Committee is a subcommittee of the Faculty Senate Graduate Committee. Degrees are awarded at spring commencement. For more information, including a list of past recipients, visit: Honorary Degrees.
Media Contact: Sari Krosinsky, (505) 277-1593; e-mail: michal@unm.edu
UNM's Center for Science, Technology, and Policy is co-sponsoring the Santa Fe Council on International Relations’ Fall 2007 International Lecture Series “Safety in a Nuclear World: Fears, Hopes, and Realities.” The series kicks off on Saturday, Oct. 6 at 3 p.m. with Richard Rhodes presenting, "Where Have All the Secrets Gone? A Layman’s Guide to Nukes." This event will take place at The Forum, College of Santa Fe.
Photo: Richard Rhodes
Rhodes is the author of 20 books, including “The Making of the Atomic Bomb,” which won a Pulitzer Prize in non-fiction, a National Book Award, and a National Book Critics Circle Award, and “Dark Sun: The Making of the Hydrogen Bomb.” He is an affiliate of the Center for International Security and Cooperation at Stanford University and is currently working on a third volume of nuclear history, “Endgame.”
The next three lectures feature Dan E. Caldwell, professor of Political Science, Pepperdine University, presenting, “Clouds on the Horizon: Eroding Constraints and the Seductive Attraction of Nuclear Weapons,” on Saturday, Oct. 20; Ambassador Thomas Graham, chair, Cypress Fund for Peace and Security, presenting, “The Ideal Protective Package: From Proliferation to Reciprocal Reduction,” on Saturday, Nov. 10; and Dr. Richard L. Garwin, IBM Fellow Emeritus, Thomas J. Watson Research Center, presenting, “Getting the Best Deal We Can: A Practitioner’s View,” on Saturday, Dec. 1.
For more information, contact Andrew L. Ross, director, UNM Center for Science, Technology, and Policy, at aross@unm.edu or 277-7391. For reservations go to Santa Fe Council or phone (505) 982-4931.
RHODES IN ALBUQUERQUE
Rhodes will also present a lecture and book signing at the National Atomic Museum Sunday, Oct. 7, at 5 p.m. He will be signing a soon-to-be-released third volume of nuclear history, "Arsenals of Folly: Nuclear Weapons in the Cold War," which examines the international politics of nuclear weapons in the last years of the Cold War.
The lecture is the first in a series, sponsored by the Albuquerque International Association, titled, “Safety in a Nuclear World: Fears, Hopes, Realities.”
Reservation information is available at Albuquerque International Club or by calling 856-7277.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
University Libraries will celebrate New Mexico Archives month with a lecture, book signing and reception featuring writer, historian and human rights activist Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz on Tuesday, Oct. 16, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Willard Reading Room in Zimmerman Library. The event is a brown-bag lunch with beverages and dessert provided. It is free and open to the public.
Dunbar-Ortiz will discuss and sign her newly revised book “Roots of Resistance: A History of Land Tenure in New Mexico.” She will talk about the process of writing the book, and the continuing conflict over land tenure in New Mexico and the cultural conflicts that result.
Dunbar-Ortiz grew up in rural Oklahoma, the daughter of a landless farm and half-Indian mother. She grew up listening to stories about her paternal grandfather, a labor activist with the Industrial Workers of the World. Those stories inspired her to a lifetime of activism for social justice.
The event I sponsored by the Center for Southwest Research, Indigenous Nations Library Program and the University Libraries.
Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
Associate Vice President from University of Pennsylvania to discuss "The Civic Mission of Universities"
The Committee for Public Service and Community Engagement at UNM will present a public talk, Friday, Oct. 5 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. with Dr. Ira Harkavy, associate vice president of the University of Pennsylvania, and director of the nationally and internationally recognized Center for Community Partnerships at Penn. The talk, titled “The Civic Mission of Universities,” will be held in the Mirage / Thunderbird Room of the Student Union Building.
Photo: Dr. Ira Harkavy
Harkavy, winner of Campus Compact's prestigious Ehrlich Award for Faculty Community Service award in 2002, and his colleague Joann Weeks, longtime associate director of the Center for Community Partnerships, will be on campus to recognize the 10th anniversary of Community Learning & Public Service (CLPS), its community schools and UNM Service Corps programs.
Harkavy, whose recently published Dewey's Dream: Universities and Democracies in an Age of Education Reform was published last Spring by Temple University Press, will discuss how the Penn Center was created and its evolution over nearly 20 years (last year alone its sponsored and coordinated nearly 60 University Research Service courses and seminars across the entire university).
The Penn program and Harkavy have received numerous awards and special recognition, including the prestigious W.T Grant award from the National Academy of Science for outstanding Youth Development, over the last 20 years. The Penn Center for Community Partnership is generally considered the leading university center for civic engagement in the country.
Following the presentation, there will be a book signing of Harkavy’s new book Dewey’s Dream: Universities and Democracies in an Age of Education Reform. For more information on Harkavy and The Center for Community Partnerships visit: The Center for Community Partnerships.
The event is sponsored by Committee for Public Service and Community Engagement; the Office of the President; Office of Academic Affairs and the Provost; Offices of Community Learning & Public Service; Research Service Learning Program of University College; UNM Student Service Action Network and the Graduate and Professional Student Association.
Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu
UNM has been nominated as one of the Best PlDavid Brookshire to Work in New Mexico! UNM is a great place to work and we have a lot to be proud of including the quality of our Staff and Faculty, strong relationships between peers and colleagues, and a shared sense that we are all a part of something important.
As a nominee UNM is being compared with other candidates for selection as the best Educational Employer in the state. This is a great opportunity for all UNM employees to support this wonderful place we all dedicate so much of ourselves to and help UNM to receive the recognition it deserves as a great employer in New Mexico.
Complete the Best PlDavid Brookshire to Work survey to add your voice in telling everyone in New Mexico that UNM is indeed the best institution of Higher Education to work for in the State.
Click on the following link to the survey into your web browser Best PlDavid Brookshire to Work Survey. When requested, please enter UNM's organization Code AZYM72489. The survey is available in English and Spanish. Please complete this survey by 10/10/07.
Media Contact: Jessica McKenna, (505) 277-5824; e-mail: jmckenna@unm.edu