Fairfield University - Press Releases

Dolan School student designs award-winning app

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Do you ever worry about your pet when you're not home?

Cody Reinold '14, an information systems and operations management student in Fairfield University's Charles F. Dolan School of Business, created an award-winning app with that thought in mind.

Called 'LocalSitter,' it allows people to monitor their pets when they can't be with them, and it won the category of "Best Idea" at the 'Tails and Rails' contest co-hosted by Purina and 'Mashable,' a popular news website and technology and social media blog.

Reinold, of Sutton, Mass., explained that LocalSitter gives you assurance that your pet is fine while you are away. "When you go on family vacations, one of the hardest things to do is leave your pet behind with a sitter or at a kennel," said Reinold, who has a golden retriever named Ben. "You end up spending a lot of your vacation wondering, 'How is Ben doing?' So this app lets you stay in touch with your pet and gives you live text updates, pictures, and videos of your pet."

LocalSitter, a web-based application (app), can run on any web-enabled device such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. The app also catalogs what went on for the entire time that owners are away from their pets. Other opportunities exist for this app, such as allowing doggie-day-care centers to use the app and send updates to owners throughout the day.

Reinold developed the app during the contest's nine-hour 'hackathon' at New York City's Soho Grand Hotel that brought together computer programmers, software developers, graphic designers and others to develop new products to benefit pets. The Fairfield undergraduate was the only individual winner of the day (the other winners were groups). For his app, he received $1,500 prize money, which he will put towards his college education.

Web design and developing a business idea are nothing new to the Fairfield junior.

He designs websites and provides marketing and development solutions to clients through his firm, Elligson, a successful small business that had its origins in a web site he created when just twelve. Reinold plans to hire employees for Elligson and work there full time to elevate the company to the next level. "In the long run, I'd like to be a serial tech-entrepreneur, solving everyday problems and making people's lives easier using technology," he said.

Chris Huntley, Ph.D., associate professor of information systems and operations management who is one of Reinold's Dolan School professors, said the LocalSitter concept is great. "Cody was able to identify a real problem and then come up with a no-fuss solution to it in a few hours," he said. "I'm sure if I had tried to do it, I'd have done something a lot more complex and not nearly so good. It takes real talent to pare off the irrelevant things so you can focus on the important things. Cody does that."

National Theatre Live in HD presents "The Audience"

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Thursday, June 13, 2013
2 p.m. (live) and 7 p.m. (encore)
Fairfield University's Quick Center for the Arts

Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts presents Helen Mirren reprising her Academy Award winning role as Queen Elizabeth II in "The Audience," broadcast as part of National Theatre Live in HD at 2 p.m. (live) and 7 p.m. (encore) on Thursday, June 13, 2013. Tickets are $25, $20 for seniors, and $15 for students and children.

This highly anticipated West End production of The Audience reunites writer Peter Morgan and Academy Award-winning actress Helen Mirren following their collaboration on the critically acclaimed movie sensation The Queen. Academy Award-nominated director Stephen Daldry (Billy Elliot, The Hours) directs the production that the Daily Mail predicts as becoming "one of the theatrical highlights of 2013."

For sixty years Elizabeth II has met each of her twelve Prime Ministers in a weekly audience at Buckingham Palace - a meeting like no other in British public life - it is private. Both parties have an unspoken agreement never to repeat what is said. Not even to their spouses. The Audience breaks this contract of silence - and imagines a series of pivotal meetings between the Downing Street incumbents and their Queen. From Churchill to Cameron, each Prime Minister has used these private conversations as a sounding board and a confessional - sometimes intimate, sometimes explosive. From young mother to grandmother, these private audiences chart the arc of the second Elizabethan Age. Politicians come and go through the revolving door of electoral politics, while The Queen remains constant, waiting to welcome her next Prime Minister.

The critically acclaimed production has earned "5 Stars" from the Daily Telegraph and The Times and "4 Stars" from the Evening Standard, Independent, and Metro, which says "Helen Mirren dazzles again as Queen." Independent agrees: "Helen Mirren makes 'The Audience' a right-royal night out."

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

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

Image copyright Johann Persson.

Exhibition: "Munch 150"

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Film series brings world famous art exhibitions to big screen

7:30 p.m., June 27, 2013
Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts
Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT

Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts continues its EXHIBITION film series with the screening of Munch 150, a film exploring the landmark Edvard Munch exhibition currently on display in Norway, at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, June 27, 2013. This is the second in a new three-part film series, EXHIBITION, which brings world famous art exhibitions to the big screen. Tickets are $15, general admission; $10, senior citizen, student and child; and $5 for Fairfield University faculty, staff, and students.

This year, all of Norway celebrates the 150th anniversary of the birth of Edvard Munch (1863-1944), one of the towering figures of modern art. The exhibition "Munch 150," co-hosted by the National Museum and the Munch Museum (both in Oslo), and currently on view through October 13, 2013, is already being hailed a "once-in-a-lifetime show". Global interest is huge - not least as a result of one of his four paintings of "The Scream" having recently set a public art auction record of $120 million. Many know Munch as the man who painted "The Scream," but his complete works are remarkable and secure his place as one of the greatest artists to have ever lived.

The event film goes behind-the-scenes to show some of the process of putting the exhibition together - as well as touring Norway to provide an in-depth biography of a man who lived from the mid-19th century right through to the German occupation of Norway in the Second World War. Norwegian and international guests will also offer their expert insight and knowledge to host Tim Marlow. Munch 150 provides the unique experience of viewing an historic art exhibition and superb event film.

The final EXHIBITION screening in the series, "Vermeer and Music: The Art of Love and Leisure," takes place at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 10, 2013. The National Gallery, London, is offering a major exhibition on one of the most startling and fascinating artists of all-time, Johannes Vermeer, painter of the "Girl with a Pearl Earring". Vermeer painted little more than 30 works that still exist, and the National Gallery has chosen to focus on his art in relation to music. The film goes beyond the exhibition to tell the entire story of Vermeer's life.

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

Fairfield University awards 861 diplomas at 63rd annual undergraduate commencement exercises

Sun, 19 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield University awarded diplomas to 861 undergraduate students at the 63rd commencement exercises today, as 5,000 family members and friends watched with pride on Bellarmine Lawn. The graduates earned degrees from the College of Arts & Sciences, Charles F. Dolan School of Business, School of Engineering and School of Nursing.

In keeping with tradition, the Jesuit institution celebrated students and honorary degree recipients who have led inspired lives.

The Reverend Michael J. Garanzini, S.J., president of Loyola University Chicago and a national figure in Jesuit higher education, gave the commencement address, asking graduates, "Who will help heal the world, if not for you? Some people can't help themselves ... Who will help create a just and right society, if not for you?"

His impressive life of service and a firm commitment to education served as an example of what one can do when fueled by passion and determination. The General Secretary for Higher Education for the Society of Jesus, Fr. Garanzini is known for his work concerning child and family therapy, moral development, and Catholic education.

Fr. Garanzini encouraged graduates to find inner peace. For him, that has involved staying in touch with God. He laced his address with humor, noting that the honorary Doctor of Laws degree he received came in part for living in a freshman dorm for the past 25 years.

The valedictory speaker was Kevin Reda, of Pleasantville N.Y., a politics and International Studies double major with a minor in economics, with plans to pursue an M.B.A. A lacrosse coach at Fairfield Prep, he shared treasured advice from the late North Carolina State University coach Jim Valvano concerning the benefits of laughing, thinking and crying daily. "Think about it, if you laugh, you think, and you cry, that's a full day, that's a heck of a day," said Reda.

Reda also spoke of events that have moved him, including September 11, 2001, when his father survived the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. He also spoke about the outpouring of support from the Fairfield community when he ran a 5K race in support of M.S. awareness. A family member has fought the disease for a decade. "I have learned that being a man or woman for others is not as much about the impact it has on us individually, but the ability of our selfless actions to move and inspire those that we are serving."

Fairfield University President Rev. Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J., presented Daniel Jones, of South Portland, Maine, with the prestigious St. Ignatius Loyola Medal, bestowed annually by the Fairfield University Alumni Association to the senior who best exemplifies the true spirit of a Jesuit education. A politics major, he plans to become an educator, and hopes to attend graduate school to study anthropology or comparative politics.

The Bellarmine Medal - awarded to the student with the highest four-year academic average - was presented to two individuals: Courtney Anne Onofrio, of Hopkinton, Massachusetts, a School of Nursing graduate who plans to be a registered nurse; and Caitlin Hill Stote, of Stamford, Conn., an English major who minored in educational studies and religious studies. She plans on pursuing a master's of arts in elementary education at Fairfield. Both were also given the John and Veronica Gleason Award for the graduating senior with the highest academic average.

The ebullient group of graduates also included many other high achieving individuals. The William J. Kramer '60 Humanitarian Award recipient was S‌arah Joseph, of Cambridge, Mass., an English, Communications, and Intercultural Studies major who has truly epitomized the Jesuit notion of the Magis.

The Class of 2013 Student Achievement Awards were given to an exemplary group of students for their commitment to the University, most notably through service work, mentoring, and student club involvement. Recipients included: Film/Television major Michael O'Keeffe, of Christchurch, New Zealand, who played for the Stags' soccer team and his native country's Olympic men's soccer team. He plans on pursuing a career in professional soccer in Europe; Environmental Studies and Communication major Alexandra Tarabour , of Red Bank, N.J., recognized for her dedication to student advancement programs; nursing major Morgan Zachary, of Somers, Connecticut, who will soon begin the Vanderbilt University Nurse Residency Program, pediatric track, in Nashville, Tenn.; and Courtney Onofrio, acknowledged for her global service work, including the School of Nursing's public health work in Nicaragua.

An honorary Doctor of Laws degree was bestowed on Sister Maureen Clark, CSJ, a Sister of St. Joseph from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who worked in the correction system in Pittsburgh and then the Massachusetts correctional system. Fairfield graduate William P. McDonald '75, of New York, N.Y., who has been with The New York Times since 1988, received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree. He was part of a team that won the 2000 Pulitzer Prize for National News, for the series "How Race Is Lived in America." His family includes Fairfield graduates: brother, James E. McDonald '66, his wife Irene Leopold McDonald '84, and a cousin, Ann McDonald Langan '74.

At 3 p.m. today, a commencement ceremony will be held in Alumni Hall for 418 graduate students. Fairfield graduate Dr. Patrick W. Kelley '76, P'12, of Silver Spring, Maryland, a director with the U.S. National Academies' Institute of Medicine, will speak at the graduate ceremony and will receive an honorary degree. Dr. Kelley and his wife, Michele (Fairfield '76), are the parents of John (Boston College '07) and Maureen (Fairfield '12). The graduate student valedictory speaker is Erin Radocchia, from Westbrook Conn., who, like both of her parents, graduated from the School of Nursing. Loretta Egan Murphy, of Monroe, Conn., who earned an M.S. in nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner track, received the St. Ignatius Loyola Medal for outstanding University service. She works in the Intensive Care Unit at St. Vincent's Medical Center, and plans to continue her work in the service of people in the greater Bridgeport community after graduation.

An honorary Doctor of Laws degree will be bestowed on Sister Patricia Farrell, OSF, LCSW, LMHP, a Sister of St. Francis of the Holy Family, from Dubuque, Iowa. She committed her life to pastoral work, working in Texas and Latin America. She is the immediate past president of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious.

Fairfield University awarded a total of 1,279 degrees May 19, including 858 bachelor's degrees, 396 master's degrees, 19 certificates of advanced study from the Graduate School of Education & Allied Professions, three Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees, and three associate's degrees.

Photos: 1) Fairfield University awarded diplomas to 861 undergraduate students at the 63nd commencement exercises, May 19, 2013; 2) A joyful graduate at Fairfield University's commencement; 3) A happy graduate with diploma in hand on Bellarmine Lawn; 4) The Reverend Michael J. Garanzini, S.J., center, president of Loyola University Chicago and a national figure in Jesuit higher education, gave the commencement address and received an honorary degree; 5) A graduate embraces family members.

For updated information: http://www.fairfield.edu/commencement

More than 400 receive degrees at 63rd Fairfield University Graduate Commencement

Sun, 19 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

On a drizzly day that didn't dampen anyone's spirits, Fairfield University awarded 396 master's degrees, 19 certificates of advanced study and three doctor of nursing practice degrees at its 63rd Graduate Commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 19, 2013.

The crowd at Alumni Hall included two honorary degree recipients: Patrick W. Kelley '76, P'12, M.D., DrPH, of Silver Spring, Maryland, director of the Boards of Global Health and African Science Academy Development at the U.S. National Academies, who was the graduate commencement speaker; and Sister Patricia Farrell, OSF, LCSW, LMHP, a Sister of St. Francis of the Holy Family, Dubuque, Iowa, and the immediate past president of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious.

The University conferred graduate degrees from its College of Arts and Sciences, the Charles F. Dolan School of Business, the School of Engineering, the Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions and the School of Nursing.

In his commencement address Dr. Kelley challenged the graduates to be transformative leaders.

"The educated, especially at the professional level, like yourselves, are parties to a social contract," he said. "Empowered professionals, such as each of you, in recognition of their status, assume an obligation to use their position and capabilities to lead the creation of more equitable societies where health, education, security and opportunity are more accessible to all, where the treasury of the talents God has given to each of us, can be fully at the service of all of us."

Dr. Kelley has overseen consensus advisory studies on subjects including the evaluation of U.S. foreign assistance for HIV/AIDS, the global problem of substandard and falsified drugs, and global surveillance for infections transmitted between humans and animals. In 2003, he retired from a career in the U.S. Army Medical Corps during which he founded the DoD Global Emerging Infections Surveillance and Response System and the DoD Accession Medical Standards and Analysis Activity and edited the first textbook on military preventive medicine in more than 60 years.

Dr. Kelley received his B.S. (cum laude) from Fairfield University, an M.D. from the University of Virginia, and MPH and DrPH degrees from the Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health. He received an honorary doctor of science degree from Fairfield on Sunday. His daughter, Maureen, is a 2012 Fairfield graduate.

Erin Radocchia, of Westbrook, Conn., who, like both of her parents, graduated from the School of Nursing, delivered the graduate class address. She joked that, as a baby, she was the youngest 'student' ever at Fairfield, "getting passed from my mother to my father in between classes in the halls of the School of Nursing.

"Eighteen years later, those halls would become the ones I knew best, as I pursued my own bachelor of science degree in nursing at Fairfield," she said. "I was inspired, not only by my parents' thirst for knowledge and commitment to service professions, but also by Fairfield's Jesuit ideals. Throughout a rewarding career in nursing, when faced with the desire to continue my education in nursing, there was nowhere besides Fairfield I even considered attending."

Loretta Egan Murphy, of Monroe, Conn., who earned an M.S. in nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner track, received the St. Ignatius Loyola Medal for outstanding University service.

Sister Patricia Farrell did pastoral work and community organizing in San Antonio, Texas, leading her eventually to 20 years in Latin America, beginning in Chile and ending in El Salvador. She also worked in the behavioral health field with Spanish-speaking people in Chicago and Omaha. She is currently part of the leadership team of the Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque, Iowa. She received an honorary doctor of laws degree on Sunday.

Fairfield University President Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J., told the graduates that they will always be part of the Fairfield community.

"We, the faculty and administration, are filled with pride in your accomplishments," he said. "During your time of study here, you shaped us all with your enthusiasm, with your passion for learning, with your good humor, and through the close relationships that you have forged here, which I am sure will be with you for the rest of your life."

Commencement for the University's 861 undergraduates took place Sunday morning on Bellarmine Lawn. The Reverend Michael J. Garanzini, S.J., president of Loyola University Chicago, was the undergraduate commencement speaker and received an honorary degree along with Sister Maureen Clark, CSJ, a Sister of St. Joseph from Pittsburgh, who worked in the correctional system for 13 years; and William P. McDonald '75, a Pulitzer Prize-winning editor at The New York Times.

Images: Patrick W. Kelley, M.D., of Silver Spring, Maryland, director of the Boards of Global Health and African Science Academy Development at the U.S. National Academies, delivers the Commencement speech; Sister Patricia Farrell, OSF, LCSW, LMHP, a Sister of St. Francis of the Holy Family, Dubuque, Iowa, speaks after receiving her honorary degree; A happy graduate holds his degree aloft; Erin Lynn Radocchia, of Westbrook, Conn., delivers the graduate valedictory speech; Beaming graduates celebrate their special day.

For updated information: http://www.fairfield.edu/commencement

Fairfield University senior is victim of tragic accident

Sat, 18 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The following press statement was issued today (May 18, 2013) by Fairfield University administration regarding the death of a student:

A Fairfield University graduating senior has been the victim of a tragic accident. Deandre Lawton, of Brockton, Massachusetts, a member of the Fairfield University class of 2013, died as the result of injuries received during a single car accident that occurred early Saturday morning in the town of Fairfield. Deandre, 21, was a senior in the Charles F. Dolan School of Business and was to participate in the undergraduate commencement ceremony scheduled for Sunday, May 19, on campus.

The tragedy has shaken the entire community and all are profoundly saddened by the loss of a valued member of the Fairfield family. All in the Fairfield community are invited to prayer for Deandre, his family and friends.

The Fairfield University Counseling Services staff, along with Campus Ministry and Residence Life students is available to speak with and assist students and other members of the community in dealing with this tragic event. Plans are being made for prayer and remembrance, including at the Baccalaureate Mass on Saturday.

Fairfield University graduates and engineering professor among Connecticut entrepreneurs taking part in crowdfunding discussion

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

These days, the quickest way to access cash to fund a new business venture just may lie in crowdfunding sites like Kickstarter.com, Indiegogo.com and Rockethub.com.

Crowdfunding - the process of attracting a large number of investors online to pledge relatively small amounts of start-up money - will be the topic of a free panel discussion at Fairfield University on Thursday, May 23, at 7 p.m., in the Dolan School of Business Dining Room.Open to the public, the event - "Crowdfunding Your Invention" - will feature Fairfield alumni and a School of Engineering professor discussing their inventions.

Entrepreneur Mark Nowotarski, president of Markets, Patents & Alliances LLC, in Darien, Conn., will moderate the panel of four Connecticut entrepreneurs sharing what drew them to crowdfunding, how they were successful, and what they have learned since they raised money.

Panelists include:

Fairfield graduates Mark Donne '11, and Jason Maloney '11, makers of the Diffr3nt™ wallet and iPhone carry cases, a company based in Westport, Conn. Diffr3nt raised $4,609 on Kickstarter in 2012. A former Apple Store employee, Donne earned a bachelor's degree in New Media and marketing from Fairfield. Maloney works for IBM as a client research analyst and earned a bachelor's degree in marketing from Fairfield. Read their story at http://blog.fairfield.edu/magazine/?p=2329.
Doug Lyon, Ph.D., chairman of the Computer Engineering Department at Fairfield and the inventor of the Arduino Digital Signal Processing Shield (DSP for Arduino), based in Fairfield, Conn. The device is a programmable circuit board that helps musicians make unique sounds and helps students learn the basics of digital signal processing. He raised $7,859 on Kickstarter. Dr. Lyon is president of the Inventors Association of Connecticut (IACT).
Jim Vellano, a former chef de cuisine at Thomas Keller Restaurant Group, and Jen Vellano, former chef de partie at Per Se in New York, who founded Maison Privé, a boutique catering company based in Greenwich, Conn. They raised $14,920 on Kickstarter.
Cliff Thier, president of iKeyboard, Inc., maker of the TacType™ keyboard, a company based in West Hartford, Conn, which raised $26,000 on Kickstarter.

The event is co-sponsored by Fairfield University's School of Engineering and the IACT. For information about the School of Engineering, visit http://www.fairfield.edu/soe/.

Image: Fairfield University graduates Jason Maloney '11 and Mark Donne '11, makers of the Diffr3nt™ wallet and iPhone carry cases.

Fairfield University software engineering faculty member discusses cyber security

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama has declared that cyber threat is one of the most serious national security challenges the nation faces. Cyberspace is part of every facet of American life, from the networks in schools, hospitals and banks. It's crucial to the grids that provide energy. It's also vital to the country's classified military and intelligence networks that keep Americans safe, and the Internet that increasingly connects society.

Below Wook-Sung Yoo, Ph.D., associate professor of software engineering at Fairfield University's School of Engineering, comments on the importance of cyber security. Dr. Yoo has been awarded more than $1.2 million in grants, including grants from the NASA Kennedy Space Center. Extensively published, his research interests include web technology, health informatics, and artificial intelligence. He serves on the National Science Foundation's Small Business Innovation Research panel.

"Today, we are more interconnected than ever and many aspects of our lives rely on the Internet. However, increased connectivity brings increased risk of cyber security. We hear and experience the phishing scams, data theft, malware, worms, Trojan horses, Scareware, Botnets and zombies, Denial-of-service, and many other online vulnerabilities. New attack methods are continuously launched every day. Against many people's hope, however, there is no known silver bullet to solve all security problems, theoretically and practically, in spite of continuous development of innovative solutions to improve cyber-space security.

The software engineering program at Fairfield University has offered several IT security courses to build cybersecurity workforce and integrated security topics in curriculum to train cybersecurity-aware software engineers. However, it's important that each of us understands that a safer and more secure cyber-space is a shared responsibility. Update operating systems, browsers, anti-virus, anti-spyware and other software programs regularly. Use strong passwords and do not share them. Think before you click and do not open email or attachments from untrusted sources. As stated by President Obama, cyber threat becomes one of the most serious economic and national security challenges like terrorism and we should take an active part in protecting our community."

Connecticut Writing Project-Fairfield to host Bridgeport students for daylong writing conference at Fairfield University

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Connecticut Writing Project-Fairfield (CWP), based at Fairfield University, will welcome more than 100 Bridgeport youth in grades 8 through 12 to campus on May 21, 2013, for the first Writing Our Lives-Bridgeport conference. Sponsored in part by Bank of America, the daylong event will highlight the importance of writing in and out of school in a wide variety of genres.

The media is invited to this event.

"We are extremely thankful for Bank of America's investment to writing programs for Connecticut youth," said CWP Director, Bryan Ripley Crandall, Ph.D. "Their willingness to sponsor our work has helped us to envision larger events for young writers in southern Connecticut."

The Writing Our Lives-Bridgeport conference offers several workshops led by writers in a variety of careers and professions. "We've invited journalists, poets, and academics," said Dr. Crandall, an assistant professor in Fairfield's Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions. "We have presenters who compose for media organizations, who work with international non-profits, and who promote for the arts."

The day will also feature the creative work of young adult novelist and children's writer Kwame Alexander, who recently was nominated for the NAACP book awards

"Bank of America is committed to supporting initiatives that open the door to future employment opportunities for young people in Southern Connecticut," said Bill Tommins, Southern Connecticut market president, Bank of America. "The Writing Our Lives-Bridgeport conference doesn't just provide an outlet for creative expression, it connects participants with the communications expertise they will need to successfully enter the workforce."

The Connecticut Writing Project-Fairfield is one of three National Writing Project locations in the state. Each year the CWP works at Fairfield University, CCSU, and UCONN to sponsor summer institutes for teachers and to offer youth programming with a mission to promote best practices for writing. There are two sessions of the 2013 Young Writers' Institute for students in grades 6 to 12-July 8 through 19 and July 22 through August 2. CWP-Fairfield will also run a new Younger Writers' Institute for children in grades 3 to 5 from July 8 through 12. All sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with lunch included. Applications and more details are available at www.cwpfairfield.org.

"The Common Core State Standards adopted by Connecticut expects a lot more writing across all content areas and grade levels," Dr. Crandall said. "Students will need to demonstrate proficiency in a wider variety of genres written for audiences with purposes that matter to them. Educators who are part of the National Writing Project network are better prepared to these challenges." NWP is often applauded as the best professional development model for teachers and the positive influence they have on preparing students as writers in school and beyond.

The Writing Our Lives-Bridgeport event is meant to stimulate conversations about writing and literacy. Working with Hoops4Hope, a non-profit that teaches children life skills in Africa, the participants will explore what ‘Literacy4Life' means. "We want every student who attends the conference to leave inspired. We want them to return to school with a passion for writing and changing the world."

For more information on this workshop and other CWP events and initiatives, contact Dr. Bryan Ripley Crandall at bcrandall@fairfield.edu. Reporters interested in covering the event should contact Meredith Guinness, assistant director of Media Relations, at (230) 254-4000, ext. 2950 or mguinness@fairfield.edu.

Editors: Young adult novelist Kwame Alexander, the keynote speaker, will be available for interviews from 10 to 11 a.m. and will give the keynote address at 12:15 p.m. Students' families have signed permission slips to allow media photography. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Heidi Kouble named Fairfield University Benefits Manager

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield University has named Heidi Kouble as its new Benefits Manager in the Office of Human Resources. Mrs. Kouble is responsible for the administration of all benefit programs serving Fairfield University's staff, faculty, and administration. She also performs employee relations functions relating to employee programs and counseling and serves as the Privacy Officer responsible for operational compliance of HIPAA regulations.

 Heidi Kouble has been working in Human Resources-related fields since 1994, most recently with Hoffman Engineering Corporation in Stamford, CT. She attended Mount Ida College in Newton, MA, where she received an Associate's degree in Interior Furnishing and Merchandising, and a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies. She received the Professional in Human Resources Certification from the Society of Human Resources Management and is a Notary Public. Mrs. Kouble lives in Trumbull with her husband Tim, and their two children, Timothy & Mikayla.

Contact information:
Heidi Kouble, Benefits Manager, Office of Human Resources
hkouble@fairfield.edu
(203) 254-4080 ext. 2995

Fairfield University Dolan School undergraduate creates real-life simulation game melding the worlds of finance and online gaming

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

After winning Fairfield University's inaugural Business Plan Competition, Dolan School of Business student Frank Serravalli '13 has spent much of the last year - and $10,000 in start-up fund prize money - building 'The Winning Trade, LLC.'

That has involved calls at dawn to its web developers in South Africa, meeting the needs of 250-plus active users worldwide, and expanding the customer base of the web and mobile-based financial trading simulation game.

Serravalli, a senior majoring in accounting from Seaford, N.Y., noted, "This game prepares you for the real world... It's a trading tool but also a learning tool that has the ability to help everyone."

Offering both educational and entertainment benefits, 'The Winning Trade' combines the world of online gaming with the financial markets, so one can trade in the market virtually and not worry about losing their shirt. When logging in, users are asked: 'Can you beat the Street?' For a $5 dollar bimonthly fee, it allows individuals to come together through the game, create hedge funds, use real-time data, and create performance reports that will prove their skills and set them up for future jobs. For example, for finance majors, the idea is that it'll prove to potential employers that they know how to manage portfolios, and show their successful histories of buying and trading securities. For that reason, Serravalli sees business schools as a major potential customer.

Possible consumers also include people interested in learning about how their 401K plans work and other investment novices. For those who manage their household's finances, it can teach them how to grow their savings in a safe environment with no risk. "I see moms taking care of the finances for the whole house as another big [market]," Serravalli noted.

Upcoming plans include launching an iPhone app of 'The Winning Trade' and developing it into a portfolio management tool. "Sometimes it's hard to do all this and juggle school, but this is important to me," said Serravalli, whose sister, Christina, a sophomore majoring in accounting at Fairfield, is his partner in the venture. "I look at this as the start of my career."

So far, the business has users not only in the U.S., but also in Europe, Russia and South Africa. "When I was studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain at the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, I made friends with students from Cologne, Germany, who are using the platform," said Serravalli, who further sharpened his business acumen last summer interning for Barclays. "It has good word of mouth."

Faculty like Joan L. Van Hise, Ph.D. and Walter F. Hlawitschka, as well as members of the Dolan School Advisory Council and business community have served as mentors. Mukesh Sud, Ph.D., associate professor of management and one of Serravalli's teachers, calls him "a sharp entrepreneur-to-be." "This is his initial attempt at entrepreneurship. Don't be surprised if plans change, evolve over time as he interacts with customers and learns what they really need."

Donald E. Gibson, Ph.D., dean of the Dolan School, said Serravalli's entrepreneurial spirit is one that many of his Fairfield classmates share. "Frank won the competition because 'The Winning Trade' was judged to have the best chances to be a viable product in the marketplace," he said.

The competition was founded to encourage students' innovative ideas and support the best ones with start-up funds. It was built as a result of a three-year initiative in the Department of Management to develop students' capacity in entrepreneurship. For a look at this year's contest, visit http://is-dsb.fairfield.edu/fbp/.

Image: Fairfield University accounting major Frank Serravalli, a member of the Class of 2013, third from left, won the 2012 Dolan School of Business Student Business Plan Competition and received a check for $10,000. He stands with his family, including sister Christina '15, second from left, and Dr. Donald E. Gibson, dean of the Dolan School of Business, left.

Resource for journalists writing about social media and the financial industry

Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The recent hacking of the Associated Press's Twitter account showed how information dispersed on social media, albeit false reports of an explosion at The White House, can rattle the stock market. Just last month, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued a ruling allowing companies to disclose key financial information via Facebook and Twitter. Both events underline the growing importance of digital platforms to the financial industry.

Ying Zhang, Ph.D., assistant professor of Finance at Fairfield University's Dolan School of Business, explains below how social media effects financial markets. He has written such published papers as, 'Do Internet stock message boards influence trading?' and 'Online-talk, Does it matter?' He researches investments, asset pricing, behavioral finance, and portfolio management.

"Unarguably, social media is playing an important role in modern life. Needless to say, the Internet has changed the way that we invest, trade and acquire information. In recent years, there has been an explosion of electronic trading that is likely to continue. Rapid growth in stock message boards, chat rooms (private or public), Twitter, Facebook, Google Finance, and other electronic means for investors to share market information makes clear the ever-increasing interest in electronic security trading. In addition to an increasing number of social media channels, growth in the number of participations in these sites has exploded. Meanwhile, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) are especially interested in tracking the activities on these social media sites in order to protect investors' interests.

How exactly does social media impact investors? The answer is at least threefold. First, public companies are now allowed to use social media sites, such as Twitter and Facebook, to disclose material corporate information in compliance with Regulation Fair Disclosure (Reg FD) as long as investors have been told where to find it. Unlike finding news on company websites, investors now can easily receive the latest key corporate news on their individual Twitter or Facebook accounts. Second, social media is a good venue for investors to learn other peoples' opinions about securities and the market. Yahoo! Finance, RagingBull, MotleyFool, TheLion, Google Finance, Twitter, and Faceboook are among the popular social media channels allowing investors to share their sentiment (e.g. buy, hold, and sell) and comments. Third, institutional investors, such as hedge funds and large banks, are conducting high frequency trading which is based on zillions of messages from social media sites. Many high-frequency trading algorithms are programmed to make trades based on aggregated and quantified news (e.g. good news=1, neutral news=0, bad news=-1) within milliseconds. Voluminous studies have found that for one, social media conveys valuable information to investors and increases market efficiency, and secondly, consensus on social media sites explain and predict financial market activity.

However, there are disadvantages: there are numerous cases related to online securities fraud. For instance, in September 2000, the SEC alleged that a 15-year-old individual used Internet stock message boards to talk up, or manipulate, stock prices and then unloaded his positions in a classic "pump-and-dump" operation. In 2007, in a lawsuit trying to block the Whole Foods grocery chain from acquiring Wild Oats Markets, the FTC alleged that John Mackey, the CEO of Whole Foods, made anonymous attacks on Wild Oats Markets on the Internet message boards in order to push down its price so that Whole Foods could acquire it at a lower price. On the other hand, high frequency trading increases market volatility and probability of market crash. We have just seen a fake White House bomb report on Twitter caused brief stock market panic possibly due to program trading - collectively, more pros than cons. Social media will continue having profound influences on financial markets."

For more on Dr. Zhang's research, visit http://www.fairfield.edu/academic/profile.html?id=986.

Fairfield University nursing student projects address array of health concerns

Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Research endeavors are an important part of a Fairfield University School of Nursing student's education, and this year several beneficial projects addressing lead paint, breastfeeding, and patient care were featured in the Research and Creative Accomplishments Symposium at Fairfield.

Jennifer Delsole '13, of East Haven, Conn., studied the value of a lead poison prevention program for preschoolers in Bridgeport, Conn. Like many urban areas, it's a city where lead paint was widely used on wood frame homes and apartments before 1972 and is still present in some residences, as well as in the soil.

"Homes that used lead paint years ago continue to pose a risk for children today," said Delsole, a Corrigan Scholar, mentored by faculty Eileen O'Shea and Tess Longhi. "As the lead paint begins to deteriorate, the contaminated lead dust can be inhaled."

Lead paint is still present in many low-income homes, and lead poisoning can result in developmental delays and damage to the brain and central nervous system. "It ultimately decreases a person's function for the rest of his or her life, marked by learning and behavioral problems," emphasized Delsole at the symposium that was sponsored by the Office of Academic Affairs.

With the help of a puppet named, 'Mr. Lead Spot,' she and her nursing classmates went into elementary schools in Bridgeport as part of a service-learning course, 'Nursing of Children and Family.' Before and after performing a 20-minute interactive education session, the Fairfield students studied the difference in 195 preschool children's knowledge about lead paint. Thanks to the outreach, statistically significant results suggested that this intervention considerably improved the preschooler's knowledge concerning lead poisoning prevention.

Kimberly Reda '13, of Holmdel, N.J., rotated on the maternal child health floor of Stamford Hospital, and learned how hospitals are very concerned with becoming 'baby friendly.' The Baby Friendly Initiative is a global program that was launched by the World Health Organization and UNICEF to promote the value of breastfeeding and the emotional mother-baby bonding that results.

Reda observed at an area hospital that many of the mothers chose formula feeding over breastfeeding. "I didn't know how much breastfeeding a baby boosts the immune system in so many ways formula did not," said Reda, who was mentored by faculty member Valerie Madaffari, DNP, APRN. "Studies show that breastfeeding reduces the risk of adult obesity and the onset of Type II Diabetes, for example."

Reda then embarked on creating a pamphlet for the hospital to share with the parents of newborns about how breastfeeding optimizes a mother and baby's health. It touts how studies show that breastfed children have fewer and less serious illnesses, and that breastfed babies are shown to have higher IQ scores. For new moms, the practice decreases the risk of certain cancers and helps one return to pre-birth weight.

"I am hoping my project will help mothers in their decision to breastfeed their children," she said. "It's a very important decision."

While rotating at Yale-New Haven Hospital, Courtney Onofrio '13, of Hopkinton, Mass., studied implementing a teaching tool for nurses working in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). In the ICU, nurses may administer neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) to paralyze patients in order to facilitate their care. "Sometimes what the body is doing is not helping the patient," said Onofrio '13, whose mentor was Sheila Iacono, MSN, RN. "By paralyzing the patient, we can help them."

To evaluate the effects of NMBAs, nurses use specific assessment tools such as 'Train of Four Assessment' and 'Bispectral Index Monitoring' to determine the patient's level of paralysis and degree of sedation. Ultimately, the two tools help assess a patient's pain level, anxiety, and any agitation because the patient can't communicate these in typical ways due to the effects of the paralytics. They are crucial to patient care and outcomes.

Ultimately, this project helped re-educate ICU nurses and presented them with a reference sheet to use on the unit that highlights important aspects of the assessment tools, such as necessary supplies, the location of equipment, and procedural components.

"This tool helps ICU nurses to be competent in assessment measures to ensure optimal care," noted Onofrio, who did the project for 'Transition: Professional Nursing Practice,' a clinical rotation course that provides students like herself and Reda with opportunities to begin the transition from the classroom to professional nursing practice.

Image: Fairfield University School of Nursing students presented a lead poison prevention program to preschoolers in Bridgeport, Conn.

Fairfield University's 63rd Commencement Media Advisory

Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

What: Fairfield University's 63rd Commencement

When: Sunday, May 19, 2013

Undergraduate Ceremony: 9:30 a.m. 
Graduate Ceremony: 3 p.m.

Undergraduate Commencement Speaker:
Reverend Michael J. Garanzini, S.J., President, Loyola University Chicago and General Secretary for Higher Education for the Society of Jesus (Chicago, IL)

Graduate Commencement Speaker:
Dr. Patrick W. Kelley '76, Director, Board on Global Health for the Institute of Medicine of the U.S. National Academies. (Silver Spring, MD)

Honorary Degree:
Sister Maureen Clark, CSJ, Sister of St. Joseph. (Pittsburgh, PA)

Honorary Degree:
Sister Patricia Farrell, OSF, LCSW, LMHP, Sister of St. Francis of the Holy Family. (Dubuque, IA)

Honorary Degree:
William P. McDonald '75, The New York Times. (New York, NY)

Where: Bellarmine Lawn, outdoors, in back of Bellarmine Hall, on the Fairfield University campus, in Fairfield, CT.

Fairfield University Media Credentials are required (in advance) to attend Commencement Ceremonies

Contact: Mike Horyczun, mhoryczun@fairfield.edu, or call (203) 254-4000, ext. 2647. Media are advised to enter via the "Jogues Hall" gate, off Round Hill Road, where they will be directed to a reserved parking area near Canisius Hall.  

Same-Day HD footage available: Commencement B-roll and Sound bites from keynote speakers can be downloaded at:
https://files.fairfield.edu:8443/xythoswfs/webview/_xy-4896395_1

Downloads will be available by: 2 p.m. (EST) for theUndergraduate Commencement; 6:15 p.m. (EST) for the Graduate Commencement on Sunday, May 19, 2013.

Undergraduate and Graduate ceremonies will be streamed live at http://www.fairfield.edu/commencement 

Live audio of the Undergraduate Ceremony will be available on WVOF-FM, 88.5, and online at www.wvof.org 

For updated information: http://www.fairfield.edu/commencement 

Fairfield University's 63rd Commencement Speakers

Undergraduate Ceremony:
Reverend Michael J. Garanzini, S.J., president of Loyola University Chicago,in Chicago, IL, and General Secretary for Higher Education for the Society of Jesus. Father Garanzini is active in community service and is known for his work on behalf of children and families. He is a frequent speaker and has published many books and articles on issues such as child and family therapy, moral development, and Catholic education.

Graduate Ceremony:
Patrick W. Kelley '76, P'12, MD, DrPH, is the Director of the Board on Global Health for the Institute of Medicine (IOM) of the U.S. National Academies. Dr. Kelley has overseen a portfolio of IOM expert consensus studies and convening activities on a variety of subjects. He also directs the African Science Academy Development Initiative. Dr. Kelley lives in Silver Spring, MD, with his wife, Michele (Fairfield '76) and is the father of two adult children, John (Boston College '07) and Maureen (Fairfield '12).

Fairfield University's 63rd Commencement Honorary Degree Recipients

 In addition to the speakers, honorary degrees will be bestowed on the following:

Sister Maureen Clark, CSJ, is a Sister of St. Joseph from Pittsburgh, PA. Sister Maureen worked in the correction system for nearly four decades, most recently in Massachusetts, and mainly working with the female offender population. A highlight of her ministry has been in the creation of programs that help reconcile and reunify women with their children and families.

Sister Patricia Farrell, OSF, LCSW, LMHP, is a Sister of St. Francis of the Holy Family, Dubuque, IA. Sister Pat did pastoral work and community organizing in San Antonio, Texas, leading her eventually to 20 years in Latin America, beginning in Chile and ending in El Salvador. She is currently part of the leadership team of the Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque, Iowa, and the immediate past president of Leadership Conference of Women Religious.

William P. McDonald '75, has been with The New York Times since 1988. He has held editorial positions on the Metropolitan, National, Culture, and Obituary desks. He was part of a team that won the 2000 Pulitzer Prize for National News. As Obituaries editor, he has edited two recent annual collections. He is the fourth Fairfield graduate from his family. The others are his older brother, James E. McDonald '66, his wife Irene Leopold McDonald '84, and a cousin, Ann McDonald Langan '74. Mr. McDonald resides in New York, NY.

On Campus Viewing Options: There are several closed-circuit viewing locations offered. Guests are welcome to view undergraduate and graduate commencement ceremonies indoors from any one of the following locations on campus that will provide closed-circuit viewing (on large screens): Quick Center - Kelley Theatre; Barone Campus Center - Oak Room, The Stag, The Mezzanine, Lower Level Lobby, Conference Room 200; and Gonzaga Hall Auditorium.

*In case of severe weather, the ceremonies will be held in Alumni Hall.  Visit www.fairfield.edu for any notice of change of venue on day of events. 

Map of the University and directions

Fairfield University professor named to national board

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Angela Kim Harkins, Ph.D., of Fairfield, Conn., associate professor of religious studies at Fairfield University, has been elected to a four-year term on the national board of the Lilly Fellows Program in Humanities and the Arts.

Dr. Harkins, who joined the Fairfield University faculty in 2006, teaches in the Department of Religious Studies and for the University's Carl and Dorothy Bennett Center for Judaic Studies. She is a member of the National Jesuit Advisory Board on Interreligious Dialogue and Relations and has been Fairfield's Lilly Program campus representative since 2008.

Dr. Harkins holds a B.A. in theology, magna cum laude, from Loyola University of Chicago and completed her M.A. in theology at the University of Notre Dame with a concentration in biblical languages. She spent a Fulbright year at Hebrew University, Jerusalem, in 1997-1998 and then completed her Ph.D. in theology at the University of Notre Dame in 2003.

Dr. Harkins is the co-chair of the Religious Experience in Early Judaism and Early Christianity section of the Society of Biblical Literature. Her monograph on religious experience and the Qumran Hodayot is entitled "Reading with an 'I' to the Heavens." It appeared in 2012 in the series Ekstasis: Religious Experience from Antiquity to the Middle Ages published by de Gruyter Press in Berlin. Her current research is on the ancient pseudepigraphic collection known as the Odes of Solomon.

Founded in 1991, the Lilly Fellows Program seeks to strengthen the quality and shape the character of church-related institutions of learning through three initiatives. Firstly, it offers an extremely competitive two-year postdoctoral teaching fellowships to young scholars who wish to prepare themselves for positions of teaching, scholarship, and leadership within church-related institutions. Secondly, the Lilly Graduate Fellows Program offers mentoring and support for exceptionally talented young men and women who are preparing for a career of teaching at the college or university level. Finally, its National Network of Church-Related Colleges and Universities sponsors various grants and other initiatives that explore the nature of mission and identity in higher education today.

The national network represents 100 schools of diverse denominations and traditions. The Lilly Fellows Program is based at Christ College, the interdisciplinary honors college of Valparaiso University in Northwest Indiana. Fairfield University has been a member since 2005.

National Theatre Live in HD presents "This House"

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Thursday, May 16, 2013
2 p.m. (live) and 7 p.m. (encore)
Fairfield University's Quick Center for the Arts

Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts presents The National Theatre of London's production of "This House," James Graham's funny, fast-paced and critically-acclaimed relevant new play in a National Theatre Live in HD presentation at 2 p.m. (live) and 7 p.m. (encore) on Thursday, May 16, 2013. Tickets are $25, $20 for seniors, and $15 for students and children.

Biting, energetic and socially relevant, "This House" strips politics down to the practical realities of those behind the scenes who roll up their sleeves and, on occasion, bend the rules to manoeuvre a diverse and conflicting chorus of Members of Parliament within the Mother of all Parliaments. It's 1974, and the corridors of Westminster ring with the sound of infighting and backbiting, as Britain's political parties battle to change the future of the nation, whatever it takes. In this hung parliament, the ruling party holds on by a thread. Votes are won and lost by one, fistfights erupt in the bars, and ill MPs are hauled in to cast their votes. It's a time when a staggering number of politicians die, and age-old traditions and allegiances are thrown aside in the struggle for power.

"This House" is directed by Jeremy Herrin and features a strong ensemble cast which includes Phil Daniels, Charles Edwards, Reece Dinsdale, and Julian Wadham, in a play as entertaining as it is aggressive, confrontational and thought provoking. "This House" has sold out two runs at the National Theatre and has earned significant press coverage, including "5 Stars" from the Daily Express, Daily Telegraph, Evening Standard, and "4 Stars" from the Daily Mail, Guardian, Independent, Sunday Express, Sunday Times, and The Times, which calls it "a funny and moving political epic." The Financial Times describes it as "astute, funny and hugely enjoyable." While the Daily Telegraph says "James Graham's superb new drama held everyone enthralled throughout... Funny, touching and cliff-hangingly suspenseful."

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

Author/therapist Marlene Watson to appear at Fairfield University

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Author Marlene F. Watson, Ph.D., one of the country's foremost African-American couple and family therapists, will discuss her latest book, "Facing the Black Shadow," at two events at Fairfield University on May 22. She will greet customers and sign copies of her book at 5 p.m. at the Fairfield University Bookstore, 1499 Post Road, Fairfield. At 6:30 p.m. she'll be the guest speaker at Conversations in Marriage and Family Therapy, a workshop at Alumni House on campus.

Both events are free and open to the public. To reserve a space at either event, contact mftgrad@fairfield.edu. The Marriage and Family Therapy Department of the University's Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions is sponsoring these events.

Dr. Watson is the former chair and associate professor in the Couple and Family Therapy Department at Drexel University. A licensed couple and family therapist in private practice, she was the first couple and family therapist ever to receive the prestigious Robert Wood Johnson Health Policy Fellowship.

"Facing the Black Shadow" is an intimate look at how black families, couples and individuals struggle against a pervasive belief in black inferiority. This groundbreaking book offers a new way to challenge that belief and move from self-blame and self-hate to understanding and empowerment.

Both poignant and controversial, the book tackles some of the most taboo topics in the African-American community, including the idea of skin-tone privilege and the long-term effects of the legacy of slavery. Dr. Watson offers practical advice, step-by-step exercises and inspiration for transformation, connection and healing.

Fairfield University announces new master's degree in liberal studies

Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield University is launching a new master's degree in liberal studies (MLS), an exciting interdisciplinary program offering graduate students a way to enhance their critical thinking and writing skills, expand their cultural perspectives, study abroad, and much more. Applications are being accepted now for classes that will begin in the Fall 2013.

The new MLS program will provide students with an illuminating educational experience through a broad and varied liberal studies curriculum. Encompassing 11 different departments - and counting - the new program is designed for those with a passion for learning about the connections that exist between academic disciplines and our world. Through integrative learning and research opportunities, MLS students will be able to make connections across disciplines and explore different fields of knowledge such as history, philosophy, literature, politics, the sciences, and the arts.

"An MLS degree serves two main populations of students: those students seeking career enhancement, and those seeking personal enrichment through education - including those who have earned professional degrees, but now desire a graduate degree with a liberal arts focus," said Dr. Steven Bayne, associate professor of philosophy and MLS program director.

People who have earned an M.A. in liberal studies have gone on to have careers in business, education, the arts, journalism, politics, writing and publishing - to name just a few.

The program requires 33 credits (11 courses), including a new team-taught foundational course called "Self, Society, World," nine electives, and a capstone course in which students will complete a master's thesis or project. Future plans for students enrolled in the MLS program include summer study abroad opportunities with two weeks spent in England, Scotland or Rome.

"When you think about our scheduled summer courses," Dr. Bayne said. "To study 17th century England while in London and Oxford, or to study David Hume and Jane Austin while in Scotland and England... What could be more exciting?"

Courses planned for the program couldn't be more diverse: "Urban Biology," "Sex, Money, and Power in Antiquity," "Music of Black Americans," and "Philosophy and Economic Anthropology" are just a few of the MLS courses planned.

Robbin Crabtree, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, said Fairfield's world-class faculty and the diversity of graduate students' experiences and academic backgrounds will create a vibrant learning atmosphere. "The MLS will appeal to those with a deep love of the humanities," she said. "It is also a program that should be seriously considered by those who live their lives in the corporate sector. These courses will hone critical thinking, improve writing, stimulate the imagination, and strengthen intellectual capacity. These skills support professional success across all industries, in addition to the ways the liberal arts enrich the life of the mind."

The new program fits perfectly with Fairfield's Jesuit tradition, said Paul Fitzgerald, S.J., Ph.D., senior vice president for academic affairs. "The essential value of a Jesuit-inspired, liberal arts education is to be seen in the quality of the life our alumni lead. They are people who have studied life's great questions, bypassed simplistic and cold-hearted answers, and have continued to open their minds and their hearts in a lifelong pursuit of wisdom."

Prospective students who would like to learn more about the new MLS program or meet with faculty and advisors are encouraged to attend Fairfield's next Graduate Information Session to be held at the Aloysius P. Kelley, S.J. Center on Wednesday, June 5 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. To RSVP to the event, or for detailed program and admission information, visit www.fairfield.edu/mls.

Behind the scenes of college admission

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Karen Pellegrino
Fairfield University's Dean of Enrollment
7 p.m., Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Fairfield University Bookstore
1499 Post Road, Fairfield, Connecticut

Are you or your children in the process of looking at colleges right now? Fairfield University's Dean of Enrollment Karen Pellegrino presents a timely and informative talk, "Behind the Scenes of College Admission," at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21, 2013, at the Fairfield University Bookstore in downtown Fairfield, Connecticut, that will explain and help demystify the process. Participants will be able to learn from a college admission expert with topics of discussion that include:

Narrowing Down the College Search

Which school is right for you?
Learn what to look for and what mistakes to avoid

What Colleges Want

What does it take to make your best impression?
How important are test scores?

How Do I Afford it All?

Think you don't qualify for aid? Think again!
Get insight on exploring all opportunities

The event is free and open to the public. No reservations required.

The Fairfield University Bookstore, is located at 1499 Post Road in the center of Fairfield, Connecticut. The Fairfield University Bookstore serves the residential community and its neighboring towns as a center for learning, entertainment, and cultural enrichment, and as a place that fosters conversation and community.

Fairfield University's School of Engineering to present Google computer science summer program for high school teachers

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

With help from a grant from Google, Fairfield University's School of Engineering will present a workshop June 26-28, 2013 for area high school teachers looking for innovative, out of the box ways to use Google Apps, computer science, and gaming tools in the classroom.

Computer Science teachers from public, private and parochial high schools in Fairfield and New Haven Counties are welcome to participate in this 'Google Computer Science for High School' (GCS4HS) program at Fairfield. Stipends worth $300 will be paid to participants upon completion of the full program. For questions or to enroll, contact Amalia Rusu, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Software Engineering, or teacher coordinator Bill McDonough. Space is limited.

The School of Engineering presented the highly successful GCS4HS program last summer for the first time, and it complements its continual efforts to interest young people in the all too important Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) disciplines. This year, topics will include Google Apps (SlideRocket, Google Drive); video game design; Computer Science Unplugged; educational games, and a panel discussion about teaching computer science curriculum on game-based learning.

"Sponsorship funds will enable Fairfield University to provide twenty high school teachers with the skills necessary to integrate Google apps education and interactive, metaphor-based computer games tools into high school curricula to help students learn computer science and engineering concepts," said Dr. Rusu, who was awarded the $12,000 Google grant.

The workshop, "Google Apps and Gaming Tools for CS Education," is designed to teach educators how to use computer science as a means to make connections between different curriculum areas and to teach higher order problem-solving skills. "The focus of this year's teachers training will be two-fold: first, to continue the implementation of computer science and engineering concepts through STEM education, and second, to create connections and extensions for high school teachers who have already been introduced to STEM curricula and teaching models," Dr. Rusu added.

Jack W. Beal, Ph.D., Dean of the School of Engineering, noted, "Working with high school teachers, the workshop will give those teachers the tools and techniques that they can use to expand existing and create new courses in computer science at their own schools."

The Fairfield University faculty-led workshop will be held in School of Engineering labs. For more information, visit http://fairfield.edu/soe/.

Image: Amalia Rusu, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Software Engineering, who received a grant from Google to support a workshop for high school teachers.