Campus News Feed http://www.bk.psu.edu/ en-us Thu, 23 May 2013 02:22:29 EST RedDot CMS Berks students inducted into national communication honors society http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32187.htm national_communications_honor_society_2010 Four Penn State Berks students were recently inducted into the Upsilon Gamma Chapter of Lambda Pi Eta, the official communication studies honor society of the National Communication Association (NCA). Upsilon Gamma is the Berks chapter of Lambda Pi Eta, which has over 400 active chapters at four-year colleges and universities worldwide.

The students included the following Communication Arts and Sciences majors: senior Maria Fazio, Norristown, PA; senior Michael Henderson, Wernersville, PA; senior Meghann McGuire, Sinking Spring, PA; and junior Ashton Tupper, Boyertown, PA.  

The NCA works to enhance research, teaching, and service produced by its members on topics of both intellectual and social significance and is the oldest and largest national organization to promote communication scholarship and education.

For more information, contact Dr. Michele Ramsey, Associate Professor of Communication Arts and Sciences and Women's Studies and Coordinator of the Communication Arts and Sciences degree program at 610-396-6148 or via e-mail at emr10@psu.edu.  
]]> Wed, 03 Nov 2010 14:34:59 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32187.htm Dances and Drums of Africa http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32186.htm african_drums1 Penn State Berks presents Dances and Drums of Africa on Monday, November 29, 2010 at 9 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium.  The event consists of artists who have trained and performed with some of the best teachers in America and Africa. From traditional to modern dancing and drumming, these artists will take you through a true West African experience featuring song and dance from Nigeria, Guinea, Senegal, Mali, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Ghana, Gambia, and Sierra Leone. Through community involvement, collaboration with arts organizations, and partnerships with world-renowned artists, Dances and Drums of Africa exposes its audiences to new works as well as historically significant works thought to be lost forever.

This presentation is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076. This event is free and open to the public.
]]> Wed, 03 Nov 2010 14:34:39 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32186.htm Chemistry topic of science division colloquium http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32131.htm Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:04:38 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32131.htm Trick-or-Treat Night at Penn State Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32130.htm berks-alumni@psu.edu. ]]> Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:05:28 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32130.htm Blood drive to take place at Penn State Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32129.htm
"Participation in the drive is valuable and has a direct effect on the stability of the area's blood supply," commented Penn State Berks Health Services Supervisor Alice Holland.

For information or to make an appointment, visit Health Services in room 8 of the Perkins Student Center or call 610-396-6075.
]]> Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:04:23 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32129.htm Reed Timmer storms into Penn State Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32128.htm timmer Reed Timmer, from the Discovery Channel’s Storm Chasers, will speak about his experiences intercepting more than 250 tornadoes and a dozen powerful hurricanes during the last decade, on Wednesday, November 17, 2010, at 6:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium. This event is free and open to the public.

Well-known as the most successful and extreme storm chaser in the world, Timmer is one of the few people to document both an F5 tornado and Hurricane Katrina, the most devastating hurricane in U.S. history. His hands-on experience with a vast assortment of hazardous weather and natural disasters, as well as his extensive education in the science of meteorology, have made him one of the world's most respected experts on severe weather forecasting, safety, and survival.

This presentation is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.
]]> Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:05:16 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32128.htm Echoes of Past come through Penn State Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32127.htm reddot_Maxine_Maxwell_2 Maxine Maxwell presents Echoes of the Past, a one-woman performance that weaves in and out of history to explore the turning points in the lives of five Black women of remarkable strength and courage, on Monday, November 15, 2010, at 1:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium. This event is free and open to the public.

The play opens with Henrietta King, an old slave woman, who tells an incredibly moving story of "What slave days was like." Antislavery activist Sojourner Truth; journalist Ida B. Wells; and 15-year-old Elizabeth Eckford, one of the "Little Rock Nine" who in 1957 integrated Central High, Arkansas, also share their struggles.

The performance ends with the courageous battles of the children of South Africa, known as the Uprising of Soweto, relived through the words of Winnie Mandela.

This presentation is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.

 

]]> Wed, 27 Oct 2010 16:21:09 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32127.htm Second Annual Latino Club Fundraiser http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32124.htm JBP12@psu.edu or Maria Tinoco at MET16@psu.edu; or student member Nicol Varona at NTV106@psu.edu.
]]> Wed, 27 Oct 2010 16:20:46 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32124.htm Chancellor's Podcast: Kevin Black http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32116.htm SusanSpeece_

Chancellor Interviews Kevin Black, Master Carpenter

Chancellor Speece recently published a new podcast in which she interviews Kevin Black, master carpenter at Penn State Berks. Kevin shares his memories of the campus property before it belonged to Penn State, and reflects on some of the changes that have occurred over the years.

Listen to the new podcast »

Learn how to subscribe to the Chancellor's Podcast »  

 

]]> Wed, 17 Nov 2010 08:16:43 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32116.htm Who Can Use the "N" Word? http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32055.htm
This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Dr. Rachel B. Friedman at RBF12@psu.edu or at 610-396-6218.
]]> Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:20:40 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32055.htm Penn State Berks Alumni Society holds football bus trip to Indiana game http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32054.htm
To make reservations, send a check made payable to Penn State Berks Alumni Society to Ralph Tutlane, Jr. 948 Lancaster Ave, Reading, PA 19607. For more information, contact Tutlane at 610-777-7312 or via email at Kingtut039@aol.com.
]]> Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:15:15 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32054.htm Alumni Ice Cream Sale http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32053.htm
Berkey Creamery ice cream is available in half-gallon quantities at a cost of $6.50 each in the following flavors: bittersweet mint, butter pecan, chocolate, chocolate chip cookie dough, coconut chip, cookies and cream, peachy Paterno, peanut butter swirl, strawberry, vanilla, and WPSX coffee break. Proceeds will benefit Penn State Berks Alumni Society.

Order forms are available by calling Dick Diehm at 610-683-5277 or via e-mail at ktowntrman@verizon.net or online at http://bk.psu.edu/Documents/Alumni/Berkey_Ice_Cream_Form_Nov2010.pdf?cn6.
  ]]> Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:17:02 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32053.htm THON 5K Run For a Cure http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32052.htm www.clubs.psu.edu/bk/thon by Nov. 8, 2010 for discounted fees and a free t-shirt. Pre-registration fees are 5K-$20 and 1 mile walk/run-$10. Registration on the day of the walk/run is from 8:30 - 9:45 a.m. in front of the Beaver Community Center. There will be a pre-race ceremony at 9:45 a.m. and then the race will begin. Costs to register on the day of the walk are $25 for the 5K and $15 for the 1-mile walk/run. Kids 12 and under can FUN run/walk for free. Refreshments will be available after the event. All proceeds benefit THON and The Four Diamonds Fund. Persons with disabilities are welcome. For more information contact Dylan Miller at DXM5062@psu.edu or Kristen Hassler at KMR5250@psu.edu. ]]> Wed, 27 Oct 2010 08:10:28 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32052.htm Football Tailgate at Reading Crowne Plaza http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32051.htm
Refreshments will be provided and are donated by The Reading Crowne Plaza. Penn State grilled stickies and Creamery ice cream will be available for purchase. Drink specials (non-alcoholic and alcoholic) and bar menu items will be available for purchase. Alumni who bring their Penn State Alumni Association member card will receive discounts on beer.

Check the bk.psu.edu/Alumni for times, which will be dependent on the football game kickoff times. For more information, contact the Alumni Office at 610-396-6057 or via e-mail at berks-alumni@psu.edu.
]]> Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:15:57 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32051.htm Berks Chapter of PSAA Happy Hour http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32050.htm afadel51@gmail.com or visit the Web site: psuberkschapter.com.
]]> Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:20:22 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/32050.htm Theatre program presents Benefit Performance http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31920.htm BettyLou_McLean The Penn State Berks Theatre program will present a special benefit performance of the Greek tragedy Medea on Sunday, November 7, 2010 to benefit the Betty Lou McLean Endowment for the Department of Theatre at Penn State Berks. The benefit will begin at 12:30 p.m. with a tribute to McLean in the Janssen Conference Center. Hors d'oeuvres will be served. The tribute will include comments from former students, family, and friends, and will be followed by the Penn Players performance of the Greek tragedy Medea at 2:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Theatre.

McLean was a prominent figure in Berks County's creative community for more than fifty years. She taught arts and theatre at Penn State Berks for more than twenty-five years, was instrumental in the development of Berks Summer Theatre, and acted as faculty advisor to Penn Players, a student theatre group. In addition to her contributions to theatrical education at the college, she also taught individual and group acting classes at the Institute for the Arts in Wyomissing.

A skilled director and actor, she was also a make-up designer more than four decades for Reading Civic Opera Society, now Reading Civic Theatre. She was also an active member of Berks Arts Council. She was married for more than 50 years to her husband, Bruce, also a prominent director and actor in Reading's theatre community.

The naming of Betty Lou McLean Endowment for the Department of Theatre provides a deserved and proper honor to McLean's legacy. Beginning immediately, these funds will be awarded annually to benefit projects and programs in Penn State Berks' Theatre department. The funds will exist in perpetuity, ensuring for years to come that the department of Theatre's curtain will rise and fall at Penn State Berks and that McLean will be remembered at Penn State Berks and throughout the community as an instrumental figure in the Berks county theatre.

Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 at the door. Contact the Development Office to reserve your space at 610-396-6056.
]]> Thu, 14 Oct 2010 07:53:35 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31920.htm Theatre department presents "Medea" http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31919.htm madea_1 The Penn State Berks Theatre program will present a performance of the Greek tragedy Medea, from November 4-6, 2010 and 11-14, at 8:00 p.m. (Sundays at 2:00 p.m.) in the Perkins Student Center Theatre. Tickets are $10 for general admission, $5 for Penn State faculty and staff with ID, and $2 for Penn State students with ID.
 
The play was written by Euripedes and directed by Cleo House, Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts and Program Coordinator for the Theatre degree at Penn State Berks. In the play, Medea's husband Jason leaves her when the king of Corinth offers him his daughter. The play tells of how Medea gets her revenge on her husband for this betrayal.

Medea, the mighty enchantress, is both weak and strong. She becomes a criminal, but not without cause, and not without strength and dignity. One of the most produced Greek tragedies of our time, Medea is a tour de force of drama, passion, and tragedy.

The cast includes the following Penn State students: Courtney Vinson (senior, Theatre major) as Medea; Patrick O'Neill (junior, Theatre) as Jason; Andrew Vitalo (first-year student) as Kreon; Tarah Yoder (senior, Theatre) as Nurse; Erin Edelstein (senior, Theatre) as Tutor; and Kevin King (junior, Theatre major) as Aigeus.

The cast is rounded out by Micheal Keefe (first-year student) and Nicholas Gackenbach (sophomore) who play attendants/soldiers; and Caitlyn Whelan (junior, Theatre), Rita Yarsinsky (sophomore, Communication Arts and Sciences), and Katelynd Knorr (junior, Theatre) as the chorus of Corinthians. Medea's children are portrayed by Ron Napoli, Technical Theatre Coordinator, and his son, Frankie.

The crew is comprised of the following students: House Manager, Ashleigh Levan (first-year student; Costume Crew, Ashanti Acosta (first-year student) and Jessalyn DeJesus, (first-year student); Sound Designer/Orchestra, Nicholas Gackenbach (sophomore); Light Board Operator, Noah Sanders (first-year student); Stage Manager, Stefanie Thomas (sophomore); Assistant Stage Manager/Props Designer - Danielle Fitzgeorge (junior, Communications Arts and Sciences; and Dramaturge, Andrew Vitalo (first-year student).
 
Penn State Berks added a baccalaureate degree in Theatre to its curriculum, effective in the fall semester. In addition to providing a solid foundation for not only strong theatre artists and articulate theatre educators, the degree program also allows students to become effective public leaders and visionaries in all professions.
 
For more information or to reserve tickets, call the Box Office at 610-396-6371.
]]> Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:19:56 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31919.htm Entrepreneurship Speaker Series encourages students to pursue passion http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31918.htm
Each semester, the Engineering Entrepreneurship program, whose mission is to provide a cross-disciplinary minor that fosters entrepreneurial creativity and leadership throughout Penn State Berks and its service area, hosts a Speaker Series featuring panel discussions and invited guests.

For more information, contact Dr. Sadan Kulturel-Konak, Coordinator of the Entrepreneurship Minor and Associate Professor of Management Information Systems, at 610-396-6137 or via e-mail at sadan@psu.edu.
]]> Thu, 14 Oct 2010 07:56:55 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31918.htm College hosts bus trip to Penn State vs. Michigan football game http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31917.htm Tickets to the game are not included. For more information, contact Wendy Kimock at 610-396-6057. ]]> Thu, 14 Oct 2010 07:52:13 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31917.htm Penn State Arts Laureate to give reading at college http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31916.htm
Becker, Liberal Arts Research Professor of English and Women's Studies at Penn State's University Park campus, will lead a discussion exploring how and why poems move us through readings from her books. Three of her volumes are available in the campus Bookstore: All-American Girl, The Horse Fair, and Domain of Perfect Affection.

Additionally, she will be visiting a Creative Writing class on campus to meet with students earlier in the day and has made copies of her most recent book, Domain of Perfect Affection, available free to the students in the class. The book explores the conditions under which people experience and resist pleasure, according to University of Pittsburgh Press, which published the collection in 2006.

A Penn State University faculty member since 1994, Becker has published seven books of poetry and has been a highly sought contributor, judge, reviewer, and critic in the field of poetry for nearly two decades. Her prose and poetry appear widely in journals including the American Poetry Review, O: The Oprah Magazine, the Georgia Review and Poetry. In 2000, Becker won Penn State's George W. Atherton Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Becker is the third Penn State laureate, succeeding Anthony T. Leach, associate professor of music and music education, and inaugural laureate Kim Cook, professor of music in cello, both in Penn State's College of Arts and Architecture. The Penn State laureate is a full-time University faculty member in the humanities or fine arts who is assigned half-time for one academic year to bring an enhanced level of social, cultural, artistic, and human perspective and awareness to a broad array of audiences. The laureate will be a highly visible representative of Penn State who will appear regularly at events University-wide and throughout the Commonwealth at community and statewide events.

For more information, contact Jayne Brown, Senior Lecturer in English, at 610-396-6041 or via e-mail at jrb30@psu.edu.
]]> Mon, 01 Nov 2010 08:52:10 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31916.htm Freyberger Gallery Presents "Hot Wax" http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31914.htm hot_wax The Penn State Berks Freyberger Gallery will present Hot Wax: Contemporary Encaustic Work from October 28 to December 9, 2010. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, October 28, at 6:00 p.m. in the Freyberger Gallery. This event is free and open to the public and light refreshments will be served.

"Encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting, involves using heated beeswax and a blend of colored pigment," explains Marilyn Fox, Gallery Director. "Ancient peoples and cultures, including the Egyptians, used this seductive medium to both obscure and reveal imagery. Throughout the centuries, artists have modified the recipe to include alternative pigments, oil, and paraffin or soy wax, revealing different properties."

This exhibit will showcase four artists: Bryan Lafaye of Lafayette, LA; Bonnie Levinthal of Philadelphia, PA; David Mohallatee of Richmond, KY; and Yomarie Silva of Miami, FL. The artists were selected by Kristen Woodward, artist and instructor of painting at Albright College, who has mastered the technique of encaustic painting.

For more information, contact Marilyn Fox, Director of the Freyberger Gallery, at 610-369-6140 or via e-mail at MJF14@psu.edu.

]]> Thu, 28 Oct 2010 16:37:09 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31914.htm Alumni Reunion and Tailgate scheduled for October 23 http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31911.htm
All Berks alumni and Penn State alumni who attended Berks campus, and their family and friends are invited to the reunion. The cost is $10 per person and attendees can make their own fruit smoothies, dress their own soft pretzels, and make their own ice cream sundaes. Penn State Creamery ice cream, grilled stickies, and a cash bar will also be available. There will be games and the indoor swimming pool will be available.

There will also be a football tailgate party for the Penn State vs. Minnesota game at the same location, sponsored by the Penn State Berks Alumni Relations Office, in conjunction with the Reading Crowne Plaza. The cost is $3 per person (children under 13 are free).

Tailgate refreshments include hot hors d'oeuvres and a fruit and cheese tray, all donated by the Reading Crowne Plaza. Penn State Creamery ice cream, grilled stickies, and a cash bar will also be available. Bring your Penn State Alumni Association member card to receive discounts on beer.

For more information or to RSVP, call the Alumni Office at 610-396-6057 or e-mail berks-alumni@psu.edu. ]]> Thu, 14 Oct 2010 07:52:46 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31911.htm College celebrates National Day on Writing http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31910.htm
Markers, note cards, and refreshments will be provided. The six-word memoirs will be displayed above the tables and later will be part of a framed collage in the Writing Center. Examples of the six-word memoir can be found at: http://www.smithmag.net/sixwords/

All participants may also enter a drawing to receive small giveaway items related to writing, including portable flash drives, paperweights, leather folders, notebooks, pens, and other desk items.

Penn State Berks offers a baccalaureate degree in Professional Writing, designed for students who want to develop valuable communication skills. The program provides hands-on training for students who would like to pursue careers in writing.

For more information, contact Dr. Christian Weisser, Professional Writing Program Coordinator and Associate Professor of English at 610-396-6416 or via e-mail at CRW17@psu.edu or Dr. Holly Ryan, Writing Center Coordinator and Assistant Professor of English, at 610-396-6333 or via e-mail at HLR14@psu.edu.

]]> Thu, 14 Oct 2010 07:55:33 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31910.htm Students hold fundraiser for American Cancer Society http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31909.htm
Community service was part of the course requirements, and the students decided to display an informational booth and distribute informational packets in various campus buildings to raise awareness about the dangers of smokeless tobacco. The students will also sell bracelets with inspirational messages for $2; proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society.

For more information, contact Dr. Mysliwiec at 610-396-6274 or via e-mail at THM2@psu.edu.
]]> Thu, 14 Oct 2010 07:54:14 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31909.htm Professor's breast cancer research focuses on protein http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31908.htm Maureen_Dunbar Dr. Maureen Dunbar, Associate Professor of Biology and Coordinator of the Biology degree program at Penn State Berks, is actively involved in conducting research that may lead to an increased understanding of the development of breast cancer.

For Dunbar, this research is personal.

"I had a very good friend die of breast cancer when I was in graduate school," Dunbar explains. "She suffered for fifteen years with the disease and died just before her fiftieth birthday."

Her research over the past decade has involved studying the role of a particular protein, PTHrP (parathyroid hormone-related protein), and its association with normal development of the mammary gland, the organ present in mammals that produces milk for the young. By studying the effect of too much or too little PTHrP, a more complete understanding of the maturation of the mammary gland is possible. As the maturation process becomes clear, problems associated with PTHrP may help us better understand breast cancer.
 
Dunbar explains that the mammary gland is actually a specialized sebaceous gland containing milk-producing structures called alveoli. The aveoli are embedded in a cushion of fat to help protect the gland. Each alveolus (the singular of aveoli) connects to a duct through which the milk flows until it is secreted through the nipple of the breast.
 
A mammal may have one or multiple (up to eleven pairs) of mammary glands, depending on the species. All humans have two breasts. The glands in both sexes are premature until puberty when, under the influence of ovarian hormones, the glands begin to develop in females. During pregnancy the mammary ducts grow and develop further in preparation for producing milk for the young. The maturation of the mammary gland involves continual secretion of cellular signals helping to regulate that growth; PTHrP is one of those signals.
 
Two tissues involved in normal mammary gland development are the epithelial and mesenchymal, with PTHrP serving a messenger between the two tissues to deliver information sent by estrogen. This small protein appears to function as a negative regulator of estrogen-induced growth during puberty.
 
As part of Dunbar's collaboration with Yale University, her laboratory has been studying a genetically engineered mouse strain that overproduces PTHrP in the mammary glands. These mice have defects in mammary development during puberty that appear to be the result of abnormal estrogen signaling in the mammary gland. Experiments are currently ongoing to unravel the mechanisms by which PTHrP may regulate estrogen- induced growth of the mammary gland.
 
Many published results have implicated estrogen as a potential carcinogen for breast tissue, so the interaction of PTHrP with estrogen in the mammary glands could lead to a better understanding of how this tissue becomes cancerous. Recent findings in breast cancer research have indicated that a woman's risk for breast cancer increases the longer she delays childbirth. This increased risk appears to be due to the fact that the immature cells of the pre- or non-pregnant breast are more susceptible to the cancer-causing effects of estrogen. The fact that PTHrP appears to be involved at this critical stage of breast development could lead to a better understanding, and potential treatment, for breast cancer.
 
The role of PTHrP in mammary development can also be studied using a cell culture model. Undergraduate students at Penn State Berks have developed a cell culture system to study the effects of estrogen and PTHrP on mammary cell growth.  Using these cultured mammary cells, the students have identified several factors that may act in concert with PTHrP to regulate mammary cell growth.
 
Findings from student research have been presented at national meetings and have been published in professional journals.

"The excitement that undergraduates exhibit when they generate a novel finding is one of the most gratifying aspects of my job," comments Dunbar. "Students learn in a way that cannot be replicated in the classroom. They learn invaluable skills such as teamwork, communication, and confidence. The time I spend with students engaged in research is always time well spent."
 
"The research performed in my laboratory is aimed at better defining the role of PTHrP in normal mammary gland development. My hope is that this work will ultimately result in improved treatments for breast cancer, but for now I remain focused on the interaction of PTHrP within the epithelial and mesenchymal tissues. My students and I enjoy the small victories that result from basic research, as well as the camaraderie that results from working on a team toward a larger goal."
]]> Thu, 14 Oct 2010 07:56:13 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31908.htm Prospective students invited to Penn State Day http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31865.htm
The program offers information to local high school juniors and seniors considering admission to Penn State Berks. Sessions will present information on Penn State admissions, financial aid, academics, student activities, athletics, and alumni benefits.

Attendees are asked to register by calling 610-396-6060, e-mailing berksadmissions@psu.edu, or visiting berks.psu.edu/admissions.

Penn State Berks offers fifteen bachelor's degree programs in American Studies, Applied Psychology, Biology, Business, Communication Arts and Sciences, Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology, Elementary and Kindergarten Education, Global Studies, Information Sciences and Technology, Kinesiology, Organizational Leadership, Professional Writing, Science, Security and Risk Analysis, and Theatre. In addition, students can enroll in one of the college's eight associate degree programs or complete the first two years of 160 Penn State degree programs offered at other Penn State campuses.
]]> Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:03:32 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31865.htm Fundraiser at T.G.I. Friday's benefits Education Club http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31864.htm TGIF_coupon The Penn State Berks Education Club is hosting a fundraiser on Friday, October 22, 2010 at at TGI Fridays, located at 305 Park Road in Wyomissing.  Friday's has agreed to donate 20% of their earnings, but only for those who present the coupon, which is available on the college's Facebook page (facebook.com/pennstateberks).

Proceeds will be used by student members of the Education Club to purchase instructional materials for elementary schools in the Reading Area School District.

For more information, contact Jayne Leh, Lecturer of Special Education, at 610-396-6413 or via e-mail at JML53@PSU.EDU.
]]> Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:05:01 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31864.htm College presents spoken word Rachel McKibbens http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31863.htm Rachel_McKibbens Spoken work artist Rachel McKibbens who has been featured on HBO's Def Poetry Jam, will perform at Penn State Berks on Thursday, October 21, 2010 at 9:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room. This event is free and open to the public.

Known for her astonishingly visceral stage presence, Rachel McKibbens has become one of the most respected poets in the spoken-word community. She is the 2009 Women of the World Poetry Slam Champion and an eight-time National Poetry Slam team member. She appeared twice on HBO's Def Poetry Jam, and she has appeared at college campuses, coffee houses, homeless shelters, and the Juilliard School of Fine Arts. She recently completed two full-length poetry manuscripts and is working on a collection of short stories. Her first book of poetry, Pink Elephant, was released in December 2009.

This event is part of the Penn State Berks Jitters Coffeehouse series and is sponsored by the Campus Activities Board. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.

]]> Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:04:39 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31863.htm Adams leads ghost stories tour http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31862.htm Charlie_Adams Join paranormal expert Charlie Adams '82 for a tour of Berks County haunts on Thursday, October 21, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at Penn State Berks. The tour will depart from the parking lot behind the Franco Building.

The cost for this event is $25. For reservations, send a check made payable to Berks Campus Alumni Society to Ralph Tutlane, Jr. 948 Lancaster Avenue, Reading, PA. 19607. Include your phone number and email address. Reservations are non-refundable but substitutions are allowed. All proceeds benefit the Penn State Berks Alumni Society Endowed Scholarship Fund.
 
For more information, contact Tutlane at 610-777-7312 or via e-mail at kingtut039@aol.com. ]]> Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:24:45 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31862.htm Diversability Month promotes equality http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31861.htm
At Penn State Berks, several events are scheduled throughout the month of October for students, faculty, and staff.

American Sign Language workshops will be held on Monday October 4, 11, and 18, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the Penn State Room, Perkins Student Center.

Workshops to increase the Berks campus community's understanding of disabilities will be held on Fridays in October from 1:00 -2:30 pm in room 104 of the Franco Building. The first seminar will be on Disability Etiquette on October 8, ADHD on October 15, and Asperger's Syndrome on October 29.

The Diversability Film Series will be held every on Thursday in October from 8:00-10:00 pm in room 104 Franco. The film Temple Grandin will air on October 14 and I Am Sam will air on October 28.

For more information, contact Yuriko Beaman, Disability Services Coordinator, at 610-396-6410 or via e-mail at ynb1@psu.edu.
]]> Thu, 07 Oct 2010 15:41:50 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31861.htm Chancellor Speece recognized by NAPW http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31860.htm susan_4.2010_reddot Penn State Berks Chancellor Susan Phillips Speece was recently named "Woman of the Year" by the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) in the category of education for 2010-2011.

The National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) is one of the most exclusive and rapidly growing associations of female executives, professionals, and entrepreneurs in the United States. They span almost every industry, including health and medicine, education, advertising and public relations, manufacturing, publishing, communications, entertainment, law, and more.

Under Speece's leadership, the college has added several new baccalaureate programs, student-centered initiatives, and campus improvements. The athletics program became a full member of NCAA Division III, and enrollment has increased by 40 percent.

Immediately prior to joining the college, Speece served as the associate dean of instruction and dean of the Division of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering at Fresno City College in Fresno, California. Prior to that position, she served as head of the biology department at Anderson University, a private, liberal arts school in Indiana, and taught biology at Purdue University, where she had earned a bachelor's degree in biology and a master's degree in chemistry and biology. She earned her Ed.D. in education and biology from Ball State University, and completed an National Science Foundation (NSF) post-doctoral fellowship at Indiana University/Purdue University at Indianapolis.

Speece has an impressive background as an academic administrator and is nationally recognized for her contributions to science education. Named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), her key areas of scholarship include AIDS and AIDS education, cell adhesion, proteins, and ecological diversity.

The author of more than thirty publications including two books, Speece has received funding for fourteen grants, including those from the NSF, the Lilly Foundation, and the Commission on Higher Education.

Speece has been actively involved in many civic and community organizations, including serving as a member of the Berks AIDS Network board, the Caron Treatment Committee, Berks Economic Partnership, and the Senior Arts Council. She worked with the United Way, served and chaired the Higher Education Council of Berks County from 2004-2006, and participated in a wide variety of community functions.
]]> Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:25:14 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31860.htm College celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Latino Showcase http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31858.htm MET16@psu.edu; or JoAnne B. Pumariega at 610-396-6007, JBP12@psu.edu. ]]> Tue, 05 Oct 2010 15:49:54 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31858.htm College launches Laboratory for Public Scholarship and Democracy http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31852.htm Grobman_reddot_rgb Penn State Berks has officially launched The Laboratory for Public Scholarship and Democracy (The Lab) this fall for faculty members who plan to integrate service learning and/or community-based undergraduate research into their curricula. Penn State Berks is the first campus outside of University Park to launch The Lab.

The Lab is the brainchild of Jeremy Cohen, Associate Vice President and Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education at Penn State University. In 2000, Cohen worked with several faculty members to develop Penn State's Public Scholarship Associates, a group of Penn State faculty, staff, students, and alumni dedicated to integrating faculty and student achievement with "the habits and practices of civic engagement."

Dr. Laurie Grobman, Professor of English and Women's Studies, serves as Coordinator of The Lab at Berks. She explains that The Lab focuses on two specific forms of civic engagement that are both undergraduate curriculum-based: service learning and community-based undergraduate research. Service Learning is defined as "a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities."

Community-based undergraduate research (CBUR) is research conducted by students in partnership with a community organization to fulfill a research need of the community or community organization. The research is built into the course curriculum and may or may not include the faculty member as a co-researcher. CBUR is both a form of service learning and a form of undergraduate research.

These methods link undergraduate students with community engagement through credit-based courses; at best, they are rewarding for all constituents and are a unique form of undergraduate education.

"The Lab, deliberately named by Jeremy Cohen, suggests innovation, experimentation, and discovery," explains Grobman. "I am confident that The Lab will connect student learning to community needs in creative, significant ways that will benefit all participating constituents."

For additional information, contact Grobman at 610-396-6141 or via e-mail at LEG8@psu.edu. ]]> Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:58:06 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31852.htm Alumni Association hosts happy hour http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31851.htm afadel51@gmail.com or visit the Web site: psuberkschapter.com. ]]> Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:12:27 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31851.htm Victoria Maxwell presents "Crazy for Life" http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31850.htm v_maxwell_rgb

Victoria Maxwell, one of North America's most sought-after speakers and educators on the "lived" experience of mental illness and recovery, will be speaking at Penn State Berks on Tuesday, October 12, 2010, at 8:30 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium. This event is free and open to the public.

After receiving her own diagnosis of bipolar and anxiety disorders, Maxwell became extremely proactive in her recovery. She combines her theatre background, personal experience, and professional knowledge as a mental health worker to share a unique and powerful perspective on dealing with mental illnesses, raising awareness and reducing stigma through her presentations.

Maxwell speaks to college campuses nationwide, helping students, faculty, staff, and community members to better understand the insider's experience of mental illness and recovery.

This presentation is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.

]]> Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:17:35 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31850.htm College observes National Coming Out Day http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31849.htm joe_and_bil_rgb Penn State Berks will observe National Coming Out Day with two events on Monday, October 11, 2010.  During the day, the Rainbow Alliance will display information in the Perkins Student Center on the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, Questioning, and Allied (LGBTQA) community. Later that evening, Campus Life is hosting a lecture titled "Joe & Bill: When the Gays Move into Mr. Roger's Neighborhood" at 8:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room. The lecture is free and open to the public.

Rainbow Alliance will display information on stages of coming out, how to become an ally, and how to become a member of Rainbow Alliance. They are currently accepting anonymous submissions of personal stories from students, faculty, and staff. For information or to submit your story, contact Karen Kihurani at 610-396-6080 or via e-mail at kek5@psu.edu.

Later that evening, join Joe Bertolino and Bil Leipold for their program in which they explore the realities and human dimensions of living in a world of heterosexual privilege. Drawing on their experiences as fraternity men and student affairs professionals, as well as their experiences with their families and the dynamics of their own relationship, Bertolino and Leipold present this difficult topic in a humorous, interactive, and challenging style that gets students and community members thinking about homophobia, heterosexism, and diversity from a new perspective.

The presentation is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.
]]> Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:58:21 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31849.htm Professor publishes book on battered woman syndrome defense http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31848.htm Dr._Russell_book Dr. Brenda Russell, Associate Professor of Psychology at Penn State Berks, recently released her second book titled Battered Woman Syndrome as a Legal Defense: History, Effectiveness and Implications, published by McFarland and Company, Inc. Publishers.

The publisher's Web site provides the following description of the text: "The use of the battered woman syndrome defense in the courts is controversial, particularly when women turn to homicide in response to a partner's abuse. Scholars worry that the syndrome has created a standard to which all battered women are compared. This book provides a comprehensive examination of the evolution of the syndrome, its effectiveness in court, and the contributions made by psychologists and legal scholars to aid our understanding of the use of battered woman syndrome evidence in trials of abused women who kill. Of particular interest is the influence of history, gender roles, and stereotypes in the evaluation of defendants who claim to suffer from the syndrome."

]]> Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:15:17 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31848.htm Fox's "Minnie Jem" exhibition featured at HACC, Lancaster http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31847.htm Fox_in_the_Corn Marilyn Fox, Director of the Penn State Berks Freyberger Gallery, will be featured in an art show from October 4-November 4, 2010 in the Art Space in the East Building on the Lancaster Campus of Harrisburg Area Community College. An artist's reception is scheduled on Wednesday, October 6, at 5:00 p.m. The exhibit is free and open to the public.
 
The exhibit, "Marilyn and Minnie Jem, with its collection of paintings and three-dimensional creatures, engages Fox's alter ego, Minnie Jem, as a way to identify the duality of her work. Minnie Jem allows Fox to step outside her expressionist style and follow an eclectic path, creating unique creatures with the random items she has collected.

The Kutztown University graduate's background is in the expressionist tradition, painting still lifes, abstracts, and landscapes. At other times, Fox's art is material-driven and she scours flea markets, yard sales, and even dumpsters for objects that she can reinvent into one of the creatures.

"This is where Minnie Jem emerges. It's Minnie Jem who keeps bringing the found objects back to the studio," explains Fox. "I had trouble explaining the difference between my painting and my crazy creatures, so I had to invent Minnie Jem."

In addition, works dealing with the artist's experience with her mother's Alzheimer's disease and death are included in the exhibition. Last spring, Fox hosted an exhibit in her Kutztown studio to raise funds for the Reading Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.

Art Space hours are Monday-Thursday from 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m and Friday from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

For more information, contact Tracy Mendoza, Coordinator of Media Relations at Harrisburg Area Community College, at 717-221-1300, ext. 1556 or via e-mail at tjmendoz@hacc.edu; or contact Marilyn Fox at 610-698-2519.
]]> Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:12:03 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31847.htm Congressional candidates visit political rhetoric class http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31846.htm
A son of immigrants from India, Trivedi was born and raised in Berks County. He went on to college and medical school before embarking on a Naval career that took him to the war in Iraq. From 2001–2003, Trivedi served as a battalion surgeon, commanding a medical team that cared for more than 1,200 troops and hundreds of Iraqi civilians. For his service, he earned the Combat Action Ribbon and the Navy Commendation Medal, and his unit was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation.
 
After his service in Iraq, Trivedi earned a master’s degree in health policy. He went on to serve as health policy adviser to the Navy Surgeon General and was an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences. An expert on public health and veteran’s health care, he served as health policy adviser to Barack Obama’s campaign for President. After leaving the Navy, Trivedi joined The Reading Hospital and Medical Center as a primary care physician.
 
Gerlach was born in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania. He earned a Juris Doctor from Dickinson School of Law. Gerlach has spent nearly 20 years in public service; his career began in 1990 with the first of two terms in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, which was followed by two terms in the state Senate.
Elected to Congress in 2002, Gerlach is serving his fourth term in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Financial Services and Transportation and Infrastructure committees. One of his biggest legislative accomplishments was creating a veterans’ cemetery in southeastern Pennsylvania. The cemetery opened in Bucks County in 2009.

For more information about these presentations, contact Dr. Rachel Friedman at 610-396-6218 or via e-mail at RBF12@psu.edu.

]]> Fri, 01 Oct 2010 09:20:48 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31846.htm Food Services “has cow” to show support for local farmers http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31845.htm
Food Services provides special meals for students to celebrate various events and holidays. The PA Harvest Festival meal will showcase locally produced and grown food. Tully’s Cafeteria will be serving items from local farms including a wild mushroom soup, pumpkin stew, roast pork, sweet potatoes, and zucchini and yellow squash. In addition, local apples have arrived and there will be a station for dipping them in caramel.  

“Turkey Hill is the campus’ milk supplier and also supplies some of our ice cream,” explains Linda MacDuff, Housing and Food Services Manager. “I thought it would be a nice way to advertise local food and create a bit of buzz by handing out free scoops of ice cream by the cow.”
]]> Tue, 28 Sep 2010 18:19:39 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31845.htm Professor completes Appalachian Trail http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31840.htm
Zimmer recalls that his first real backpacking trip was when he was a member of a New Jersey Boy Scout Troop in October 1966. The troop camped on the Appalachian Trail at Sunfish Pond, near Midland Park, New Jersey. He found it fascinating that he could continue south to Georgia or north to Maine and decided that one day he would hike the entire trail.

After graduating from college, Zimmer became an adviser to Boy Scout Explorer Post 61, and later scoutmaster with Troop 61 in New Jersey. For many years, he led explorer posts and scout troops on two- or three-day trips on the Appalachian Trail to New Jersey, all the while planning to "through hike" when he retired. His goal was to complete the trail by the time he turned 61; he exceeded that goal, by completing the trail before that age.

Zimmer's positions as adviser to Explorer Post 61 and scoutmaster of Troop 61, as well as his goal of completing the trail by age 61, earned him the trail name of "Explorer 61." He explains that hikers use names that describe an experience they had on the trail.

He states that he got serious about his goal in 1996 when he told the scout groups that he would do more of the planning, but would no longer repeat a trip. He also added one-week summer trips to their weekend outings and led the post on a five-day, 50-mile trip that covered all of the trail in Maryland, as well as areas to the north and south, allowing them to hike in four states during that excursion.

About ten years ago, Zimmer left the scouts, freeing up more time to increase his trail mileage.

With the support of his family who took their vacations with him, Zimmer would backpack or day hike while they visited museums, battlefields, and caves, or participated in activities like rafting or kayaking. Sometimes they hiked with him. By his last year on the trail, his adult children no longer participated, but his wife continued. In addition to shuttling him, she often took hikers to town or provided snacks, earning her the name "Trail Angel."

According to Zimmer, he walked for 11 days this year and 10 of them were the easiest days of all, with the exception of climbing Katahdin, the highest mountain in Maine. Going up Katahdin, he said he "thought the wind would blow us off the mountain."

This year, Zimmer was joined by a Penn State Berks colleague, Terry Speicher, Assistant Professor of Engineering. He also met a Berks student, known as Red Tail, on the trail in Maine. On the second day out, it had just started raining, and Zimmer and Speicher decided to take shelter. In early afternoon, Red Tail and another hiker approached the shelter, and after a brief conversation, they discovered that Red Tail had been a student in Speicher's class

Zimmer thanks his family, all the great people he met on the trail, and the volunteer maintainers who made his dream possible, and summarizes, "It's been a fun run."
]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2010 12:18:20 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31840.htm Festival de Cine brings Spanish films to Penn State Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31839.htm
"Your window to Spanish life with English subtitles," the festival celebrates the theme of this year's National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 - October 15), which is "the strength and hard work of Hispanics/Latinos."  Admission is free to Penn State Berks student, faculty, and staff, and Tex Mex refreshments will be served.

Organized by Dr. Rosario Torres, Associate Professor of Spanish and Coordinator of the Spanish Minor, the festival explores Latino representation in the media through the presentation and subsequent discussion of two documentaries and two films.

The festival begins on Tuesday, September 28, with De Nadie, (2005) directed by Din Dirdamal. This documentary chronicles the story of several Central American immigrants in their difficult journey to the U.S. in search of a better life.

On Wednesday, September 29, the film Sin Nombre (2009), directed by Cary Fukunaga, will be presented. The film tells the story of a Honduran teenage girl who dreams of living in the U.S. Her story becomes interlaced with that of a teen gang member, trying to escape a life of crime. This film is rated R.

The documentary The Devil's Miner (2005) will be aired on September 30. Directed by Kief Davidson and Richard Ladkani, the documentary tells the story of 14-year-old Basilio, who worships the devil for protection while working in a Bolivian silver mine to support his family.

Finally, on October 1, the film La Misma Luna (2007), directed by Patricia Riggen, will be presented. The film tells the story of a boy who crosses the Mexican border into the U.S. to reunite with his mother, who is living in Los Angeles.

The Festival de Cine is sponsored by the Penn State Berks Spanish program, the Global Studies program, and the Diversity Committee. For more information, contact Dr. Rosario Torres at 610-396-6408 or via e-mail at RZT1@psu.edu.
]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2010 16:29:40 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31839.htm Annual Parents and Family Weekend unites students, families http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31838.htm
The festivities will begin on Friday evening with "College Feud" at 9 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room of the Perkins Student Center.

On Saturday, check-in will be held from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Beaver Community Center. The first 150 families will receive a free gift. Attendees can enjoy lunch in Tully's Cafeteria from 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

There will be a campus parade starting at 12 p.m., and floats built by student organizations will be on display. The parade will begin at the Pole Barn, located near the Janssen Conference Center and travel through campus, ending at the soccer field by 12:40 p.m.

Following the parade, the Women's Soccer Team will play at 1:00 p.m. During halftime, at approximately 1:30 p.m., there will be a crowning ceremony of the first King and Queen of Penn State Berks. All seniors are eligible and must be nominated by their peers.

The Campus Activities Board will hold a Berks Bonanza in the Residence Hall Quad from 12:00-4:00 p.m. The event will feature a moon bounce, balloon artist, caricatures, big chair photos, and refreshments. There will be a live performance by singer/songwriter Cara Wojciechowski at 2:00 p.m.
 
During the bonanza, students will be selling hand sewn purses made by the girls from the Children and Youth Empowerment Centre in Kenya, a program for former street-dwelling children which Penn State Berks supports through volunteer efforts.

Attendees can also choose to take a walking tour of the campus, guided by student Lion Ambassadors, beginning at 12:30 p.m. at the Beaver Community Center. Dr. David Sanford, Associate Professor of Horticulture, will lead a separate tour of the plants and trees on campus, also beginning at 12:30 p.m. at the Perkins Student Center. In addition, the Labyrinth Garden on the Janssen Conference Center will be available throughout the day for those who wish to walk the labyrinth.

Other events include a Women's Tennis game at 1 p.m. at Gring's Mill Tennis Court, a Parent and Family Association Meeting at 1 p.m. in room 3 of the Perkins Student Center, the Diversity against Discrimination Game, an interactive e-based activity dealing with diversity, will begin at 2 p.m. in room 120 of the Perkins Student Center, a presentation on the history of the campus at 2 p.m. in room 20, Perkins Student Center, and the THON committee will present Tuition Bingo at 3 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium.

Later that evening, there will be a mystery dinner theatre beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Lion's Den; the cost is $20 per person. The day's activities will culminate with a presentation by Peter Boie, the self-proclaimed "magician for non-believers" at 9:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium.

On Sunday, students will host a fundraiser flapjack breakfast at Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar. Proceeds will benefit THON, the IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon held at Penn State University Park each year, which is the largest student-run philanthropy in the world, THON benefits children with cancer and their families.

For more information about Parents and Family Weekend, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.
]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2010 16:30:58 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31838.htm Prospective students invited to Penn State Berks Open House http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31837.htm
The program offers information to local high school juniors and seniors considering admission to Penn State Berks. Sessions will present information on Penn State admissions, financial aid, academics, student activities, athletics, and alumni benefits.  

For more information or to register, call 610-396-6060 or e-mail berksadmissions@psu.edu or visit the Web site: www.psu.edu/admissions.

Penn State Berks offers fifteen four-year baccalaureate degrees in American Studies, Applied Psychology, Biology, Business, Communication Arts and Sciences, Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology, Elementary and Kindergarten Education, Global Studies, Information Sciences and Technology, Kinesiology, Organizational Leadership, Professional Writing, Science, Security and Risk Analysis, and Theatre. In addition, students can enroll in one of the college's eight associate degree programs or complete the first two years of 160 Penn State degree programs offered at other Penn State campuses.
]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2010 12:23:02 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31837.htm College presents spoken word artist IN-Q http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31836.htm Def Poetry Jam and has made appearances on various networks, will perform at Penn State Berks on Tuesday, October 5, 2010 at 9:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room. This event is free and open to the public.

In-Q was named the 2007 Hollywood Grand Slam Champion and the 2004 National Poetry Slam Champion. Always performing and building his fan base, he makes regular appearances around the country at venues ranging from universities to nightclubs to major arenas. He has shared the stage with everyone from President Barack Obama to the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Most recently IN-Q released his first full-length poetry CD, "When Two Worlds Collide."

This event is part of the Penn State Berks Jitters Coffeehouse series and is sponsored by the Campus Activities Board. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.
]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2010 16:30:33 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31836.htm Bollywood artists visit Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31835.htm Take a journey through India with three all-star Bollywood artists as your guides on October 6, 2010, at 9:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium. Styles of Bollywood is an Indian extravaganza with a Las Vegas twist. This event is free and open to the public.

The performance features blockbuster Bollywood hits from the 1950s to present day as well as traditional dances from India and Pakistan with award-winning performers.  Styles of Bollywood also showcases the unique regions of India-from the hills of the Himalayas to the sandy deserts of Rajastan to the villages of Bengal-through their genuine regional attire. Authentic costumes and choreography make this performance exciting for audiences of all backgrounds.

This presentation is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.

]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2010 16:33:13 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31835.htm College hosts bus trip to Penn State vs. Illinois football game http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31834.htm Tickets to the game are not included. For more information, contact Wendy Kimock at 610-396-6057.
]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2010 16:28:40 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31834.htm Student's business venture makes a splash on the Schuylkill http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31833.htm
Customers rent the tubes and kayaks in the basement of the Canal Street Pub, where Reading Rivertribe has set up shop.  Transportation then is provided to various points along the Schuylkill.

There are three points along the river that Reading Rivertribe uses as access points: the Felix Dam in Muhlenberg Township, the Buttonwood Street Bridge, and Jackson's Landing, which is across the street from the Canal Street Pub in Heritage Park.

According to McManus, since they began their business in the summer of 2010, they have had nothing but positive response and support from the city, including that of Mayor Tom McMahon, who was especially helpful in guiding them through the process of obtaining a zoning permit and business license.

With a donation of 50 tubes from the former Hidden River Adventures, which operated in Douglassville from 1991 until 2001, and the purchase of a school bus to transport customers and the equipment to the river, they are off to a good start. In addition, two of their friends have volunteered their time as staff on the river to act as guides and offer assistance.

McManus commented that this summer was the test period for the business, and they hope to have be running full speed ahead for the summer of 2011.

"I think the tubes will really be popular," McManus said. "I would like to get up to 300 people on the river on a summer day. That would just be awesome."
]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2010 13:43:45 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31833.htm Science Colloquia presents "The Fulbright Experience" http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31832.htm  
This presentation will provide practical information on both the Fulbright teaching/research experience and life in Taiwan. Topics will include teaching, research, childcare, learning Chinese, festivals, places to see, things to bring, and what to expect.

The Division of Science Colloquia features Penn State Berks faculty and visiting professors who conduct research on a wide variety of topics. Topics are of broad and general interest and are accessible to the non-expert. The next presentations on engineering will be held on October 29, 2010 in room 157 of the Franco Building.
]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2010 16:30:08 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31832.htm "Be Healthy Week" offers free programs for campus community http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31813.htm  
Health Services invites the campus community to learn about tobacco and sexual health during the monthly program titled “Get Some” on Monday, September 27, at 6:oo p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room. Cheryl Yates, Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, will also discuss the college’s free Tobacco Cessation Program. Penn State Berks Health Services and Penn State Berks WPSB-TV have joined forces to produce this monthly TV show on health with an emphasis on human sexuality.

Also on Monday, September 27, Andrea Dillaway-Huber, PhD, RD, LDN, a dietician and nutritionist, will give a presentation titled “What’s the Scoop on Fitness Supplements” from 7:00–8:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room.
 
Health Services and Counseling Services will offer free screenings for depression on Tuesday, September 28; Thursday, September 30; and Friday, October 1, from 12:00–1:00 p.m. on the second floor lobby of the Perkins Student Center.
 
Finally, the college will host a “Get the Facts Drug and Alcohol Panel” on Wednesday, September 29, from 1:00–2:15 p.m. in room 5 of the Luerssen Building. Members of the panel will include Berks Women in Crisis, Berks County Community Prevention Partnership, Erie Insurance Group, CARON Treatment Center, Berks County District Attorney Office, as well as Penn State Berks Offices of Police Services, Health Services, Judicial Affairs, and the Penn Players student theatre group.

For more information on these programs, contact the Office of Health Services at 610-396-6075.
]]> Fri, 17 Sep 2010 08:59:38 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31813.htm Students volunteer as part of Common Reading Program http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31762.htm
The college's common reading program gives students the opportunity to have a shared experience with classmates and faculty members. In addition to the reading, community outreach activities are held that relate to the text. This year's selection is Strength in What Remains by Publitzer Prize-winning author Tracy Kidder.

In this real-life narrative, Kidder tells the story of Deo, a young man who escaped from ethnic violence, civil war, and genocide in Burundi. He lands at JFK airport with two hundred dollars, no English-speaking skills, and no friends or family in the U.S. Deo carves out a precarious existence delivering groceries, living in Central Park, and learning English by reading dictionaries in bookstores. Then he begins to meet the people who will change his life, pointing him in the direction of Columbia University, medical school, and a life devoted to healing. Although Deo eventually becomes an American citizen, he returns to Burundi to build a clinic and public health system.

Strength in What Remains is the story of one man's inspiring American journey and of the people who helped him, providing brilliant testament to the power of second chances, the human will, and the endurance of the soul.

Penn State Berks students are getting an opportunity to help others by collecting donations for Opportunity House, a local non-profit multi-service organization that improves the quality of life for families, adults, and children who face various obstacles to independence, and supports their efforts to achieve and maintain self-sufficiency. Like most not-for-profit organizations, Opportunity House depends on the support of the community to maintain and strengthen programs.

Through the common reading program, first-year students will embark on a new adventure: becoming responsible and productive citizens of Penn State and the world.
]]> Tue, 14 Sep 2010 16:24:37 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31762.htm Student club petitions to become college's first Greek organization http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31761.htm
If their petition is granted, SPL will be the first Greek student organization at Penn State Berks. The effort was spearheaded by SPL president Jenai Gaines, a junior majoring in Communication Arts and Sciences, and former SPL president Jumah Tahweh, Communication Arts & Sciences 2010, after receiving approval from Chancellor Susan Phillips Speece and Dr. Blaine Steensland, Senior Director of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management.

SPL was formed at Penn State Berks in the fall of 2008 and since that time, the club has facilitated fundraising events, helped Health Services to raise breast cancer awareness, and collaborated with other clubs to organize World AIDS day on campus. They work closely with the student club "We Are ... Helping Haiti @ Berks." In addition, they developed the college's first Phenomenal Woman Award and held an event in the residence halls to honor the recipients.

Since its inception, SPL has been interested in joining a Greek organization. After researching a variety of organizations, they decided that Gamma Sigma Sigma was a good match for them. Gamma Sigma Sigma currently has more than 70 chapters and colonies throughout the United States, including a colony at Penn State Behrend and a chapter at Penn State University Park. In 2007, Gamma Sigma Sigma chapters reported an average of 1,700 hours provided to service on campus and in the community.

Yuriko Beaman, SPL adviser and Disability Coordinator, commented, "The Sisterhood of Professional Ladies has worked very hard to become a positive organization on campus and I'm happy they are moving to the next step of colonization."

]]> Mon, 13 Sep 2010 09:10:12 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31761.htm Internship in conservation takes students to Canada http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31760.htm During the summer of 2010, five Penn State Berks students completed the college's International Conservation Internship at Presqu'ile Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada. The interns were led by Dr. Jennifer Arnold, Associate Professor of Biology at Penn State Berks.

The interns conducted conservation research on declining populations of water birds, assisted in the management of endangered snapping turtles and reforestation projects, and produced an interpretive poster for the park's nature center.

Eric Knoll, first-year student majoring in agriculture; Creston Smoker, sophomore, biology; and Joshua Scornavacchi, Biology '10, were involved in the internship for approximately one month each, while Chellby Kilheffer, sophomore, biology; and Ashton Romero, sophomore, agriculture, were involved for 4-5 days each.

Over the past two years, ten biology students have participated in this internship program. For many of these students, it was their first time outside of the U.S., or even away from home for an extended period of time. For almost all, it was their first experience working side-by-side with professionals in natural resource management and research, exploring the challenges and rewards of working in conservation science.

Arnold explains that she strongly believes that much of the value of scientific discovery, particularly in conservation ecology, is in its ability to stimulate social and political change.

The nature center also displays decoys of common terns, a small water bird known to nest in dense aggregations on small islands, which were created by Penn State Berks students in 2009 and used as part of a social attraction study in an effort to increase nesting numbers. Researchers in Canada have recorded a greater than 40% decline in common terns in the Canadian Great Lakes region over the last 30 years. The social attraction study was designed to attract common terns to the park via the use of sound recordings and decoys.

Next year, an extended version of the internship will be launched. In addition to the summer program at Presqu'ile Provincial Park, one student will have the opportunity to participate in nocturnal research on saw-whet owls during the fall of 2011 in conjunction with the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art in Millersburg, PA. This international experience will offer the student a unique opportunity to compare differences in conservation approaches between the U.S. and Canada and experience working in very different field conditions.

For more information on the Berks International Conservation Internship, contact Arnold at 610-396-6174.

]]> Mon, 13 Sep 2010 09:21:20 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31760.htm Underground railroad bus tour open to college http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31740.htm
The purpose of the tour is to educate and remind everyone of the Underground Railroad stations in Berks County. These places played a very important role in assisting slaves escaping to freedom.

Sites to be visited this year include Joanna Furnace, Hay Creek; Hopewell Furnace, Elverson; Pine Forge; and the old Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church in Reading, where CPAAM is currently located. Other sites that will be pointed out along the way include Scarlet Mills, White Bear, and Frisby AME Church, home of the oldest African American cemetery in Berks County.

The cost for tickets is $25/per person, $45/per couple, and $15 for students with ID. The ticket cost includes a boxed lunch. The deadline for reservations is September 10, 2010. For reservations or information, please contact CPAAM office at 610-371-8713 or 610-929-9907.
]]> Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:38:28 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31740.htm Nego Gato Performs at Penn State Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31739.htm negogato The Nego Gato Afro-Brazilian Music and Dance Ensemble brings a musical experience celebrating Afro-Brazilian culture to the Perkins Student Center Auditorium on Monday, September 27, 2010, at 9:00 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

Jose Sena, known professionally as Nego Gato, is the director of this talented group; he shares his experiences growing up on the streets of Salvador, Brazil immersed in the magical sounds of street musicians and ceremonies.

The ensemble's repertoire includes works from Afro-Brazilian folkloric dances such as samba, maculele, and the Dances of the Forces of Nature, known as 'Orixa' in Brazil. The ensemble also features a performance of Capoeira, an African Brazilian martial art that combines dance, gymnastics, and acrobatics.

This performance is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.
]]> Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:38:04 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31739.htm Locos por Juana delivers infectious Latin beats http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31738.htm Locos_Por_Juana_-_Color_Press_Photo Locos por Juana, coined Miami's best Latin Alternative Band, will be playing in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium on Wednesday, September 29, 2010, at 9:00 p.m. They combine a soulful mix of Latin jazz with cumbia, reggae, rock, and a myriad of other worldly influences resulting in a nonstop party sound that shifts moods by the minute. This event is free and open to the public.

Their music integrates a message of unity, resulting in a fresh and innovative sound that has traveled across the U.S. and beyond. Locos por Juana has received awards and recognitions for Best Band of Miami (Miami New Times), Best U.S. Band (BBC News), and Billboard Hot Pick (Billboard Magazine), and has also been featured as Buzzworthy Video (MTV Español).

This performance is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.
]]> Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:38:16 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31738.htm College offers smoking cessation program http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31727.htm Penn State Berks is helping faculty and staff to "kick the habit" with a tobacco cessation program, starting on September 22, 2010. The 30-minute coaching sessions will be in the Thun Library, room 119, on Wednesdays from 3:00–5:00 pm.
 
The goal of the program is to help participants develop a plan to quit smoking by changing their behaviors and habits, and learning to cope with urges. Cheryl Yates, MA, Master Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist at the Reading Hospital, will assist participants in gaining the skills necessary to break a smoking addiction.
 
For more information or an appointment, please call Health Services at 610-396-6075. ]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:08:55 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31727.htm Bloodmobile pulls into Berks campus http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31726.htm  
"Participation in the drive is valuable and has a direct effect on the stability of the area's blood supply," commented Penn State Berks Health Services Supervisor Alice Holland.
 
For information or to make an appointment, visit Health Services in room 8 of the Perkins Student Center or call 610-396-6075.
]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:04:46 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31726.htm Health Services offers free student HPV vaccination clinic http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31725.htm
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted virus in the United States. At least half of all sexually active people become infected with at least one strain of HPV. Fortunately, most of these are defeated by a healthy immune system and never cause a problem. Some, however, go on to cause changes that lead to cervical cancer.

Until cervical cancer is totally preventable, one of the best ways to reduce the risk is the HPV vaccine, which provides protection against the two most common strains of cancer-causing HPV and two strains that cause genital warts.

The three-dose series reduces the risk of cervical cancer by 70 percent and genital warts by 90 percent. The second and third vaccines in the series will be in offered in November and March.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Health Services at 610-396-6075.
]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:07:25 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31725.htm Deadliest Catch captain drops anchor at Penn State Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31724.htm Keith Keith Colburn, owner and captain of the Wizard, the premier crab boat of the Bering Sea featured on the Discovery Channel's reality TV series Deadliest Catch, will discuss life on the high seas, as well as the long-term impact of oil disasters on September 21, 2010, at 7:30 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium. This event is free and open to the public.

At the age of 22, Colburn left behind his life as a Lake Tahoe ski bum, determined to try something new and exciting. He jumped on a plane and landed in Kodiak, Alaska, with a tent, $50, and a hazy but romantic vision of working at sea and the rumor of big paydays.

Colburn was instantly hooked by the fishing lifestyle and the camaraderie of being part of a crew working together against the elements. While initially looking only for adventure in Alaskan waters, Keith decided to make it a career.

In 1988, three years after he arrived, he became a full-share deckhand on the Wizard. He earned his U. S. Coast Guard license in 1990 and moved from the deck to the pilothouse. Two years later, he received his master's (captain) license and has remained there as the skipper.

In 2002, Colburn purchased the crabber Sirene (pronounced Sea-Wren), but continued to operate the Wizard. In 2004, he sold the fishing rights for the Sirene in a government- run fleet reduction program. When this program led to a reduction of the crabbing fleet from 250 to 80 crabbers, Keith purchased the Wizard to secure his stake in the crabbing industry.

This presentation is part of the college's Arts and Lecture Series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.
]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:07:00 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31724.htm Freyberger Gallery presents Mark Marchlinski:Teacher as Artist/Artist as Teacher http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31723.htm Marchlinski The Penn State Berks Freyberger Gallery will present Mark Marchlinski: Teacher as Artist/Artist as Teacher, from September 9 to October 15, 2010. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, September 9, at 6:00 p.m. in the Freyberger Gallery. This event is free and open to the public and light refreshments will be served.

Marchlinski developed a unique style in creating art that combined electro-plating metals to paper, burnishing, and acid etching to produce both large and small works. This exhibit showcases that unique style.

Marchlinski earned a bachelor's degree in fine art from Kutztown University in 1977 and he went on to earn his master's degree in fine art form the University of Washington. After ten years of residing in Fairbanks, Alaska, where he was active on the state's Council on the Arts and recipient of a Fellowship in the Arts, he and his wife moved to Tennessee. Marchlinski taught at the University of Huntsville in Alabama until he had a major brain aneurysm in 1990. He spent the next ten years of his life in a nursing home before passing away in 2009.

The Freyberger Gallery is open Monday through Thursday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Thursday evenings until 8:00 p.m.; and Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

For more information, contact Marilyn Fox at 610-396-6140 or via e-mail at mjf14@psu.edu.
]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:08:34 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31723.htm Football tailgates to be held at Reading Crowne Plaza http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31722.htm
Tailgates will be held for the following games: Penn State vs. Alabama on September 11, Penn State vs. Minnesota on October 23, and Penn State vs. Ohio State on November 13, 2010. The football tailgates are open to all Penn State Berks alumni and Penn State alumni who attended Berks campus, as well as their families and friends.

Refreshments include hot hors d'oeuvres and a fruit and cheese tray, donated by The Reading Crowne Plaza. Penn State grilled stickies and Creamery ice cream will also be available. Drink specials (non-alcoholic and alcoholic) and bar menu items will be available for purchase. Alumni who bring their Penn State Alumni Association member card will receive discounts on beer.

Check the alumni Web page for times, which will be dependent on the football game kickoff times. For more information, contact the Alumni Office at 610-396-6057 or via e-mail berks-alumni@psu.edu.
]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:04:07 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31722.htm Alumni Society holds Long Trout Winery Tour and Wine Tasting http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31721.htm
Although Long Trout Winery has a new facility, visitors will think they took a trip in a time machine when they see all the peace signs, tie dye, bell bottoms, flower rings of baby's breath and daisies, headbands and halter tops that give the winery its unique flair. Visitors will enjoy '60s music, smoldering incense, and clean, crisp homemade wines, which are available for purchase.
 
For more information and directions, contact Ralph Tutlane at 610-777-7312 or kingtut039@aol.com.

]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:04:27 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31721.htm Students to volunteer at Opportunity House http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31720.htm Penn State Berks has a number of service events planned with the Opportunity House of Reading during the fall semester. There are three dates in which students will volunteer their time to prepare and serve a meal at Opportunity House: August 29, October 17, and November 14, 2010. The group will leave campus at 9:00 a.m. and will return to campus at 1:00 p.m.

Additionally, two new projects are planned for this fall. On September 21, students will volunteer their time during a book-making event at the Opportunity House's Second Street Learning Center.  The second new project is an "everyone's birthday" party, and it is scheduled for October 13.

Students who have participated in community service projects report the service as being one of the most rewarding experiences of their college careers.  Participating in community service is an educational and social exchange in which students are gaining an equally valuable experience as those who they wish to help.

Andrea Pfaff, Student Activities Coordinator, commented, “I am always impressed by our students' dedication to making a difference in our community, and these projects are evidence of the wonderful things we can accomplish when our faculty, staff, students, and community come together for a great cause.”

All the Opportunity House projects are funded by the Penn State Berks Beaver Community Service Endowment Fund.

]]> Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:10:28 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31720.htm Chancellor Speece announces retirement http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31709.htm susan_4.2010_reddot After nearly a decade in her role as leader of Penn State Berks, Dr. Susan Phillips Speece has announced her retirement, effective June 30, 2011. Speece began her career at Penn State in January 2001 as Dean and CEO of Penn State Berks-Lehigh Valley College. When the University reorganized the campuses in 2005, she was named Chancellor of Penn State Berks.

"Susan Phillips Speece has played a major role in the growth and development of Penn State Berks," said Penn State President Graham Spanier. "Under Susan's leadership, this campus has become a destination of choice for many of our students, and it has had one of the fastest growth rates over the last decade of any Penn State campus. Susan has contributed greatly to this institution through new baccalaureate programs, student-centered initiatives, and campus improvements, and she has prepared Penn State Berks for a stronger future."

In addition to the accomplishments noted by President Spanier during Speece's tenure at the college, the athletics program became a full member of NCAA Division III, and the college's enrollment has increased by 40 percent.

This spring, construction began on the long-awaited 62,000-square-foot classroom and laboratory building for the Engineering, Business, and Computing Division, scheduled to be complete by the end of 2011.

"The past ten years have flown by," comments Speece. "I think the team we have brought together is outstanding and together we have been able to move the college into the twenty-first century. Students affirm that by choosing to stay at Penn State Berks for their full four years more and more often."

"I truly believe that we offer the very best of Penn State. We have the quality education, the opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research-even as an undergraduate-and the intimacy and personal attention of a small institution. There is, of course, still room to grow, and I look forward to hearing about all the progress the college will make in the coming years."

Immediately prior to joining the college, Speece served as the associate dean of instruction and dean of the Division of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering at Fresno City College in Fresno, California. Prior to that position, she served as head of the biology department at Anderson University, a private, liberal arts school in Indiana, and taught biology at Purdue University, where she had earned a bachelor's degree in biology and a master's degree in chemistry and biology. She earned her Ed.D. degree in education and biology from Ball State University, and completed an National Science Foundation (NSF) post-doctoral fellowship at Indiana University/Purdue University at Indianapolis.

Speece has an impressive background as an academic administrator and is nationally recognized for her contributions to science education. Named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), her key areas of scholarship include AIDS and AIDS education, cell adhesion, proteins, and ecological diversity.

The author of more than thirty publications including two books, Speece has received funding for fourteen grants, including those from the NSF, the Lilly Foundation, and the Commission on Higher Education.

Speece has been actively involved in many civic and community organizations, including serving as a member of the Berks AIDS Network board, the Caron Treatment Committee, Berks Economic Partnership, and the Senior Arts Council. She worked with the United Way, served and chaired the Higher Education Council of Berks County from 2004-2006, and participated in a wide variety of community functions.

When asked about her plans for retirement, Speece stated that she wants to watch her granddaughter grow up, so she plans to move to Colorado. She also plans to become involved in community organizations in the area where she will be residing.
]]> Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:22:52 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31709.htm Outdoor Adventure Program helps first-year students adjust to college http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31609.htm
Designed to help first-year students with the transition to college, the optional Outdoor Adventure Program supplements required first-year seminar classes. Students form friendships, learn about college life, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves through these learning opportunities-all before classes begin.

Building for Tomorrow: August 5, 2010
Students experience the joy they can provide by volunteering at Opportunity House on August 5.

A Walk in the Woods: August 15-18, 2010
This four-day/three night backpacking adventure on the Appalachian Trail will allow students to enjoy the solitude of the woods, cook outdoors, sleep under the stars, and learn outdoor hiking skills in beautiful Pennsylvania. The group will enjoy geocaching, problem solving, and team building activities as a prelude to the college experience.

Canoeing Adventure: August 15-18, 2010
Participants will camp out for three days and two nights in tents on the Delaware River, enjoying breathtaking views and an abundance of wildlife while learning about the value of teamwork through canoeing.

For more information on the Outdoor Adventure Program, contact John Gallagher at 610-396-6076. ]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:47:46 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31609.htm First-year students move into residence halls on August 20 http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31607.htm
In an effort to establish connections with parents and families, Penn State Berks will present a parent's orientation following the welcome reception from 3:00-4:30 p.m. This session will address how families can support their student. In the meantime, incoming students will attend a residential student orientation from 3:00-7:00 p.m. This program is geared toward providing keys to successful residence hall living.

The Penn State Berks Orientation Program is staffed by over one hundred orientation leaders, twenty-three resident assistants, and other college staff members who make every effort to help students and their families to make a smooth transition to college life.

]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:02:16 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31607.htm Penn State Berks Alumni Night at R-Phils on August 18 http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31606.htm
Tickets are $20 per person and the event is free for children under the age 4. The Berks County Chapter and Reading Phillies will jointly donate $4 for every ticket sold to THON, benefiting The Four Diamonds Fund for pediatric cancer at Penn State Children's Hospital.

Order forms are due by August 4. Please make checks payable to Berks County Chapter of PSAA and mail to Mike Rowley, 3808 Stoudts Ferry Bridge Rd., Reading, PA 19605.

For more information, e-mail michaelrowley@comcast.net or visit psuberkschapter.com. ]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:38:00 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31606.htm Penn State Berks hosts Spend a Summer Morning Program http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31580.htm Wed, 30 Jun 2010 16:18:42 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31580.htm Adult information session to be held July 29 http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31579.htm berks.psu.edu/ce. ]]> Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:58:46 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31579.htm Students hold fundraiser for American Cancer Society http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31555.htm
Community service was part of the course requirements, and it was in this class that Jen Martin, a senior majoring in Biology and president of the campus Science Club, first got involved in the project. In the spring 2010 semester, Martin took the project to the Science Club, which was looking for community service ideas, and they continued the fundraising efforts.

Students set up table displays in various campus buildings, where other students could make a donation and take a "pledge against cancer" in which they wrote one action they planned to take to live a healthier lifestyle. The students also collected donations during the Relay for Life fundraising event.

According to Martin, many members of the club had personal reasons for getting involved in the project. They presented the funds to the American Cancer Society's Reading office on Friday, June 11, 2010.
]]> Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:08:45 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31555.htm Monk retires after 37 years of service http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31554.htm sue_monk Assistant Professor of Kinesiology Susan Monk will officially retire on June 30, 2010, after 37 years of service to Penn State Berks. Monk earned her undergraduate, master's, and Ph.D. degrees from Penn State before coming to Berks to teach.

"My entire education was completed at such a big University, I had always assumed I would end up teaching at a big school, but when I got to Berks and found the small setting to offer such a great sense of community, I didn't want to leave," she says.

Monk's 37 years at Berks allowed her to see momentous change at the campus. She recalls the challenges of teaching Kinesiology before the campus even had a gymnasium.

"We had to do a lot of activities and teaching outside." She added that she would even use a hallway of the Perkins Student Center as an area to teach fencing.

Monk was part of the effort to bring the campus' first women's sport, field hockey, to Berks. She also coached the women's field hockey team.

Over the course of her career at Berks, Monk began teaching Physiology and Anatomy courses at the campus and retired as a "classroom only" teacher in those subjects.
]]> Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:09:36 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31554.htm Riegel receives Information Technology Collaboration Award http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31553.htm Riegel Chris Riegel, Assistant Information Technology Manager at Penn State Berks, received the University's Information Technology Collaboration Award for his work on the Visitor Wireless Committee.

The Visitor Wireless Committee was comprised of two people from each Penn State campus, as well as staff from the Information Technology and other departments at University Park. The committee worked to make broadband wireless access available to campus visitors through an agreement with AT&T Wireless.

Visitors with laptops that have a wireless network card can pay a small fee for 24-hour access via credit card. The wireless access is similar to wireless networks at airports, hotels, and restaurants. The existing Penn State wireless networks do not allow for visitor access.

Departments can also purchase coupons for invited guests, or to use for one-day programs. They are available for purchase at http://computerstore.psu.edu/search/node/coupon.

AT&T Wireless existing customers with Smartphone and data plans (ex: Apple iPhone or Blackberry) can connect to this network free of charge with no software or password required.
]]> Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:01:37 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31553.htm Gourama receives IFT Food Microbiology Division Distinguished Service Award http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31552.htm hassan_gourama Dr. Hassan Gourama, Associate Professor of Food Science at Penn State Berks, received the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Food Microbiology Division Distinguished Service Award. Gourama has been involved with the Food Microbiology Division (FMD) Executive Committee for several years, most notably serving as Chair of the FMD Graduate Paper Competition. The award recognizes those who provide continuing, meritorious, and imaginative service to the members of the division. IFT is the official professional society of Food Science, with 22,000 members working in food science, food technology, and related professions in industry, academia, and government. ]]> Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:07:15 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31552.htm Berks holds first Practical Nursing Program Graduation http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31551.htm
The first nursing class is a diverse and multi-talented pool of individuals. Many have worked for number of years in elder care, some are making a complete career change, and others are just beginning their education. While their stories may be different, they all share one common denominator: caring about people.

The college, in partnership with The Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences, launched the new part-time evening and weekend Practical Nursing Program in January 2009. The program is unique from other nursing programs in Berks County because it is the only one in which participants do not have to give up their day jobs: they attend class three evenings a week, as well as every other weekend, and achieve their dream of becoming a nurse in just 18 months.

The college's partnership with The Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in January 2008, provides tremendous opportunity to the students. Clinical work took place primarily at The Reading Hospital, with The Phoebe Village, an adult retirement and care facility in Wernersville, serving as a secondary clinical site.

The State Board of Nursing approved the Penn State Berks Practical Nursing Program as a satellite of the Penn State Lehigh Valley Practical Nursing Program. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to take the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN) for state licensure. Graduate students interested in continuing toward their Registered Nursing diploma may be able to challenge courses at The Reading Hospital's School of Nursing for advanced placement.

The Practical Nurse Program is non-credit and it is priced competitively; program costs include instruction, books, uniforms, shoes, nursing supplies, and malpractice insurance. For more information about the Practical Nurse Program, contact Elaine Berish, Continuing Education Area Representative, at 610-396-6230 or via e-mail at emb1@psu.edu.
]]> Fri, 11 Jun 2010 16:01:37 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31551.htm Students learn through Discovery High School Youth Camps http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31545.htm
Participants can choose between a commuter and a residential option (commuter option only for the Advanced Filmmaking, Computer & Cyber Security, and Boys & Girls Soccer Camp). Students will stay in the Berks residence halls, providing a true college experience. Resident assistants will stay with the students from the end of the camp day until the start of camp the next morning. Evening activities are planned to ensure group involvement. Camps run from Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m., (except the Soccer camps, which run from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and begin on Sunday.)

Discovering Engineering-Rockets, Robots, and Race Cars
This camp explores engineering, technology, and applied science. Participants will learn about the various engineering disciplines-chemical, civil, electrical/computer, mechanical, and nuclear-through hands-on activities and projects. The camp will emphasize the role of engineers as inventors and developers of new products and processes for the benefit of society. Participants will also learn how to best prepare in high school to major in engineering in college. The camp runs July 5-9, 2010. The cost is $325 for commuters and $550 for the residential option.

Discovering Forensic Science
Campers will take a behind-the-scenes look at crime investigations and uncover a series of "who dunnits" using current forensic biological techniques. They will also use molecular biology to examine DNA left behind at the crime scene and ID the culprit. Participants will interact with scientists and investigators as they learn and perform experiments to help solve crimes. The camp runs from July 5-9, 2010. The cost is $325 for commuters and $550 for the residential option.

Discovering Veterinary Science
This summer camp puts students in the role of veterinary assistants under the watchful eye of a veterinarian. Laboratory work such as conducting dissections, reviewing ultra sounds and x-rays, taking cultures, and suturing will be performed. Campers will also visit a veterinary clinic and learn about careers in the field. This camp combines hands-on experience with live animals and scientific principles in biology, chemistry, and anatomy. The camp runs from July 5-9, 2010. The cost is $375 for commuters and $600 for the residential option. Due to the high demand for the Discovery Veterinary Science Camp, a second session has been added for commuters only from July 12-July 16, 2010.

Discovering Advanced Filmmaking
This camp focuses on independent filmmaking including acting and production. Students can stage a drama, a music video, or a talk show, working with the same software that Hollywood studios use to edit video. This camp is for students who have completed the Film and TV camp or are in high school and have basic knowledge of using video equipment. The camp runs from July 12-16, 2010. The cost is $275 for commuters (no residential option is available for this camp).

Discovering Computers and Cyber Security
This camp will include problem-based instruction and hands-on activities with a strong emphasis on exposing students to computer security/information assurance careers, especially in the financial services industry. Students will be involved in many activities to protect and defend personal privacy and information systems, and they will learn techniques for information system restoration by incorporating protection, detection, and recovery capabilities. The camp runs from August 2-6, 2010. The cost is $265 for commuters (no residential option is available for this camp).

Boys & Girls Soccer Camp
Participants in both the boys and girls camps will develop skills in agility and ball-handling, as well as speed training. Camps will be conducted by Penn State Berks NCAA Division III head men's and women's coaches, Laszio "Billy" Balazs and Francisc Munteanu, both former professional European soccer players. The Boys Soccer Camp runs from August 2-6 and the Girls Camp runs from August 9-13, 2010. The cost is $119. The camp runs from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Students entering grades 4-10 are eligible to attend.

Enrollment in High School Youth Campus camps is limited and early registration is recommended. High school students may apply for a camp scholarship (maximum of $50); visit the Web site (berks.psu.edu/ce) to print an application or call 610-396-6225.

]]> Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:06:05 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31545.htm Middle School Youth Camps combine learning and fun http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31544.htm
Environmental Ecology and Science
The camp, designed for students entering grades five through eight, will focus on exploring and learning about the environment-topical areas that include water, recycling, agriculture, and forestry. Participants will work with scientific tools and techniques to determine the health of a stream, safely gather and grow bacteria, conduct experiments with microscopic animals, and using the power of observation, gather clues in solving environmental problems. A chaperoned field trip is planned to offer campers hands-on learning experiences. This camp runs June 28-July 2, 2010. The cost is $225.

Film and TV
Students entering grades five through eight will learn about the three stages of professional television production: pre-production, production, and post-production. Campers will also learn what is involved in bringing a production to life on the screen from both a behind-the-scenes and in-front-of-the-camera perspective. They will learn about script writing, various types of camera angles and how they are used, and set design. A chaperoned field trip to a television studio is planned. This camp runs June 28-July 2, 2010. The cost is $250.

Discovering Advanced Filmmaking
This camp focuses on independent filmmaking including acting and production. Students can stage a drama, a music video, or a talk show, working with the same software that Hollywood studios use to edit video. This camp is for students who have completed the Film and TV camp or are in high school and have basic knowledge of using video equipment. The camp runs from July 12-16, 2010. The cost is $275 for commuters (no residential option is available for this camp).

Imagination Station
This camp is offered for students entering fourth through eighth grades and it is designed as an adventure through literature centered around J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. Campers will be divided into "houses" for the week's activities. Discussions, drama, science, crafts, math, and games are designed to increase students' creativity, self-expression, self-esteem, individuality, sharing capabilities, and motivation. A chaperoned field trip will provide a magical experience for the participants. This camp runs July 12-16, 2010. The cost is $225.

Science of Technology
Campers entering grades five through eight will develop an understanding of "how things work" through hands-on activities that demonstrate the principles of simple and motorized machines. They will solve challenges by building bridges with K'Nex building systems and programming robots using the LEGO Mindstorms (RCX) Robotics Invention System. Participants will learn about mechanical and software design, problem solving, and teamwork skills. No prior knowledge of robotics or other engineering technology topics is required. This camp runs August 2-6, 2010. The cost is $225.

Boys & Girls Soccer Camp
Participants entering fourth through tenth grades in both the boys and girls soccer camps will develop ball-handling skills, as well as speed training and agility. Camps will be conducted by Penn State Berks NCAA Division III head men's and women's soccer coaches, Laszio "Billy" Balazs and Francisc Munteanu, both former professional European soccer players. The Boys Camp runs August 2-6, 2010 and the Girls Camp runs from August 9-13, 2010. Both camps run from 8:30-11:30 a.m. The cost is $119.

Enrollment in Middle School Youth Campus camps is limited and early registration is recommended. For more information, visit berks.psu.edu/ce or call 610-396-6225.

]]> Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:07:51 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31544.htm Barkitecture design competition takes stigma out of the doghouse http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31543.htm
The Barkitecture contest is an attempt to show alternate uses that can be found for a doghouse by creating "un-doghouses" - doghouses that can be used for a variety of other functions.

According to the Humane Society, dogs that are exclusively chained outside and living in dog houses, are far more likely to be victims of neglect and abuse, suffer from behavioral problems, lead to neighbor disputes, and are less likely to be adopted in animal shelters.

The Blue & White Society entered into the "donation" category of the contest, and designed an un-doghouse that will be used to collect pet supplies and donations in local businesses after the competition.

The un-doghouse looks like a traditional dog house, only this house isn't fit for a canine. In fact, it doesn't even have a real door, only a faux, painted one; the only "entrance" is through the shingled roof set. The walls are painted white, and the familiar Nittany Lion logo adorns the front and back, while the Blue & White Society logo is painted on the other two sides.

Winners of the contest will be chosen by a Blue Ribbon judging panel featuring notable animal welfare and architecture professionals, as well as by public voting, which began on April 1, 2010.

Winning designs will be announced at the Humane Society of Berks County's Walk for the Animals & Walktoberfest on September 26, 2010.

For more information, please contact Heather Angstadt, Alumni Relations Coordinator, at 610-396-6052. ]]> Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:02:21 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31543.htm Students preview college life through FTCAP http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31534.htm
"Berks FTCAP is a very important program," explains Danielle Richards, Coordinator of the Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) at Penn State Berks. "Because of this program, our first-year students receive an excellent academic orientation to Penn State University as a whole and Penn State Berks, which provides them with a solid foundation for a successful college career. The success of this program is due to the individual and departmental efforts that go into making our new students feel welcomed and valued as important members of our academic community."

During this series of day-long programs held throughout the summer, academic advisers in the Academic Advising Center, as well as faculty and staff members, help small groups of incoming first-year students evaluate their educational plans through a comprehensive program of testing and individualized academic advising.

The program provides students with an understanding of their academic abilities through the testing component, which is completed online prior to the student's FTCAP visit. Testing determines the student's appropriate starting levels in English, mathematics, and chemistry. During FTCAP, students learn how their academic preparation and abilities compare to those of other Penn State students.

Then students and their families are introduced to the wide range of academic degree programs available through Penn State, both at Berks and other campus locations. Each student has an individual meeting with an academic adviser to discuss his or her educational plans. Experienced faculty and professional advisers assist students with course selection and scheduling.

While some students know what they want to study prior to FTCAP, many others are undecided. Meeting with an adviser helps these students to recognize all the options available to them through Penn State.

In addition to learning about academic programs, students learn about the college and its policies and procedures, buy their textbooks, have their photo ID taken, obtain a computer access account, tour the residence halls, and learn about life outside the classroom. Students also learn what to expect from their professors and what will be expected of them in the classroom.

There is a Student Services Fair that introduces them to Athletics, Campus Life, Career Services, Financial Aid, Housing and Food Services, Learning Communities, the Boscov-Lakin Information Commons at the Thun Library, Police Services, and a variety of other student services, including off-campus housing options.

While some of the activities are only for the students, families are invited and encouraged to come to FTCAP with their student and attend the general sessions, as well as sessions presented specifically for families.
]]> Fri, 21 May 2010 08:50:05 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31534.htm Latino Unity Club offers Reading High scholarship http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31533.htm
The club began fundraising for the scholarship in the fall 2009 semester, its first semester of operation. Fundraising efforts included bringing a Latin showcase to the campus, which included a traditional Mexican dance team, a Salsa champion, and a guest speaker. They also sold dinner tickets to the Plaza Azteca restaurant in Wyomissing.  

"I think it is so important to give back to your community," says Cory Varona, a junior Business major and president of the Latino Unity Club. "As a Reading High graduate, I feel it is important that students know Penn State Berks is right in their backyard, and they can find so many opportunities on this campus."

Applicants for the scholarship were required to have a 3.0 GPA, be active in school and their community, and also complete an essay on how they can give back to the community. Each applicant was reviewed by all fourteen members of the club.

"Angelie was the right candidate because her grades were excellent, and she has a strong desire to help her community," says Varona. "We all thought she wrote a very touching essay, and in addition, she is very clear in her major and the direction she wants to head in the future. She's a great example for the Latino community."

Looking to the future, the club has plans to renew and grow this scholarship each year. Citing this first fundraising effort as a "learning experience in raising money," Varona says the club will be more experienced next year when they begin fundraising again.

The club also plans to dedicate two of their four monthly meetings to giving back to the campus. They hope to dedicate one night for students to come and practice conversational Spanish and another night for salsa dancing lessons.

When asked about her motivation to give back to the community, Varona states, "I have four sisters, and two of us are in college at the same time. Without all the scholarships I received, I probably wouldn't be here."
]]> Thu, 20 May 2010 13:52:14 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31533.htm College receives grant from leading pharmaceutical company http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31532.htm
Alice Holland MSN, CRNP, Nurse Practitioner Supervisor at Penn State Berks, has been working closely with Sanofi to develop the grant titled "CYEC Project Kinga." "Kinga" is the Swahili word for 'protect.' The goal is to assist the CYEC with preventive health measures by providing vaccines and access to clean water for the population of former street-dwelling youth in Kenya.

Holland led a group of Penn State Berks students last summer to explore Kenyan culture, examine sensitive issues, and review a healthy youth development curriculum. The students met with registered nurse Mary Simiyu, CYEC Health Clinic Program Coordinator and they attended her series of focus groups to assess the needs of the youth.

This summer Holland will return to Kenya with a group of Penn State Berks students enrolled in Holland's course, Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Health and Education, to assist with the development of the Health Clinic at the CYEC. The focus is placed on identifying the factors that influence the development of individual, group, and society cultural perspectives on health and education.

The class will take an experiential approach and apply cultural competence in health and education. The course aims to develop a self-awareness of the diversity within health and education and foster attitudes that value varied perspectives.

The mission of the CYEC is to identify and develop holistic and sustainable solutions for the population of former street-dwelling youth in Kenya. The CYEC has more than 150 children in residential care and provides services for another 60 through its affiliated drop in center. Street-dwelling children lack access to health care and clean water.

The CYEC was formed to address three gaps in the national program for the care of street children: program sustainability, program exit, and standards of care. The program addresses the major circumstances underlying the street life phenomenon, including communal violence, family breakdown, substance abuse, poverty, and disease.

This Penn State Berks health initiative is part of a larger University-wide collaboration with the CYEC that includes the College of Agricultural Sciences, Humanitarian Engineering and Social Entrepreneurship, and the College of Health and Human Development.
]]> Thu, 20 May 2010 13:52:42 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31532.htm College selected to attend AAC&U National Summer Institute http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31531.htm
Representing Penn State Berks will be Dr. Paul Esqueda, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs; Dr. Martha Aynardi, Director of Academic Support and Projects; Dr. Janet Winter, Senior Lecturer in Mathematics; Jennifer Dareneau, Lecturer in English; and Dr. Mary Lou D'Allegro, Senior Director of Planning, Research, and Assessment.

"AAC&U's 2010 summer institutes are designed to address in a variety of ways the central challenge facing higher education-ensuring that all students achieve the high quality liberal education they need and deserve," said AAC&U president Carol Geary Scheider. "Each year, we are inspired by the exciting and innovative ways these institutions are tackling the challenge of improving liberal learning outcomes for all their students."

For 20 years, the AAC&U's Institute on General Education and Assessment has provided hundreds of colleges and universities with the formative and collaborative space to advance general education reform and its assessment on their campus. Campus teams come to the institute to develop, refine, and advance intentional curricula, engaging pedagogies, effective assessment, and long-term sustainability of efforts.

For more information on AAC&U meeting and institutes please visit www.aacu.org.

]]> Wed, 12 May 2010 16:08:01 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31531.htm College to host Middle Atlantic Discovery Chemistry Project http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31530.htm
Seminars at the MADCP meeting are included in the following list. Additional programs will be added in the coming weeks and updated at the MADCP Web site: http://home.gwu.edu/~eisenl/MADCP-HOME.html

Katie Amaral, Penn State Berks
"Starting a mentoring program"
"I got these clickers, now what?" (Workshop)

Laura Eisen, The George Washington University
"Inquiry-based chemistry: using ideas from the ACS general chemistry textbook to engage students"

Stanley Furrow, Penn State Berks
"The amazingly fantastic BZ oscillating soup and its connections to
life, the universe, and more"

Paul McGibney and Raymond Howanski, Ridley High School
"Modeling chemistry-inquiry based approach to instructional chemistry" (Workshop)
 
Ike Shibley, Penn State Berks
"Using a course management system to improve learning in organic chemistry"
"Organizing a Blended Course Via a Class Guide" (Workshop)

This event is free to attend for all undergraduate and graduate students. Math and science instructors from colleges and high schools are encouraged to attend, but must pay a registration fee. Enrollment is limited to eighty participants. To register, please complete the form at berks.psu.edu/MADCP.

For more information, contact Dr. Lorena Tribe, Associate Professor of Chemistry at Penn State Berks, at 610-396-6187 or via e-mail lut1@psu.edu.


 ]]> Wed, 12 May 2010 16:07:43 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31530.htm Careers with Math Options conference targets female students http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31529.htm
This day-long event will include sessions in many different areas with such titles as Skeleton Sleuth, The Coldest Stuff in the Universe, Math Magic, Math on the Web, Poly-What Now?, Slime, A Look Inside a Computer, Connections, Weed Identification, Careers in Astronomy and Physics, Math Genius, and Environmental Jeopardy, just to name a few.

Guest speakers will include Mena Hautau from Penn State Cooperative Extension, Mary Beth Mancias from Metropolitan Edison Company, Janet Graden from Montgomery County Community College, and Jayné I. Park-Martinez from the Florida Institute of Technology.

This program was initiated and organized by Janet Winter, Senior Lecturer in Mathematics. Winter also coordinates the Science, Engineering, and Technology Conference for eleventh graders, the Science for the Schools program, and the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program, a science and engineering program for female students.

]]> Wed, 12 May 2010 16:06:43 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31529.htm Groff Receives ASIS Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31528.htm
Presented by American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) International, Schuylkill Valley Chapter #128, the award recognizes a police officer who distinguished himself through exceptional service to business or community.

A graduate of the Reading Police Academy, Groff was nominated by Penn State Police Chief Bob Rehrer for his exceptional service to Penn State Berks since December 2000. According to Rehrer, during his ten years with the college, Groff has been trained as a Certified Field Evidence Technician, and he has received several professional instructor certifications, including certification to instruct and qualify police officers in the use of the Monadnock Expandable Baton (MEB). He is also a qualified bicycle patrol officer.

In addition to his professional duties, Groff has developed an excellent relationship with the students on campus, supervising the "Student Patrol/Escort Program" and acting as lead instructor in the Rape Aggression Defense System (RADS) course, in which female students, faculty and staff members learn to defend themselves from attack.

For the past three years, Groff has served as adviser to the Christian Student Fellowship, a student service club on campus. Each year, Groff travels with the club to perform community service in areas with a need. This year, Christian Student Fellowship traveled to Miami to work at the Miami Rescue Mission, a homeless shelter and soup kitchen providing aid to women and children. The two previous years, he led the group to hurricane-ravaged New Orleans and to an area just outside New Orleans to rebuild homes with Habitat for Humanity. During these trips, Groff works alongside the students, and he uses his vacation time to travel with the club.

"In Officer Groff, you find the rare combination of a skilled law enforcement professional with a true humanitarian spirit," states Rehrer. "Officer Groff's selfless efforts have clearly made a difference in an untold number of individual's lives."
]]> Tue, 11 May 2010 14:21:20 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31528.htm PENN STATE BERKS SETS $11 MILLION GOAL FOR CAMPAIGN TO HELP STUDENTS http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31527.htm For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. At a reception on Thursday, April 29, 2010 Berks Chancellor, Dr. Susan Phillips Speece, announced that the campus's goal is to secure $11 million by June 30, 2014. These funds will ensure that the college can  continue to offer an outstanding education to students from every economic background while benefiting the public through research and service. Speece also announced that over $5 million in gifts and pledges have been raised so far during the "quiet phase" of the campaign, which began January 1, 2007.

This $11 million is Berks' piece of Penn State University's overall campaign to raise an unprecedented $2 billion in private support for the institution. With more than $1 billion raised to date, that goal, announced by President Graham Spanier at an event on Friday, April 23, will make it the biggest fundraising effort in the University's history.

"Penn State has made it possible for hundreds of thousands of individuals to sustain their families, advance their professions, and contribute to our country's strength," Spanier told more than 1,000 volunteers and donors gathered at the Bryce Jordan Center. "The For the Future campaign will ensure that we can continue to prepare our students for leadership in a world vastly different from any that previous generations have experienced."

The campaign's top priority, noted Speece, is to increase scholarship support. "Our students are the central focus of all we do here at Penn State Berks. The reality is, with ever-decreasing levels of public funding, Penn State must rely more and more on private support to continue to fulfill our land-grant mission of providing access to higher education to all qualified students. Our students tend to stay in this area once they graduate, so as we provide educational challenges and resources to help them succeed, we help provide our region with resources, energy, and support that will help all of our citizens thrive."

Ensuring student access and opportunity through scholarship support is one of six key campaign objectives. The other priorities of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students are:
-- enhancing honors education and encouraging innovation across the curriculum;
-- enriching the experiences of students beyond the classroom and preparing them for global leadership;
-- building faculty strength and capacity through support for dedicated teachers and scholars at every
    stage of their careers;
-- fostering discovery and creativity through interdisciplinary research initiatives;
-- sustaining the tradition of overall quality for which the University has become recognized around the world.

The Berks initiative has the assistance of a team of area business professionals serving as a volunteer campaign cabinet. The team is led by co-chairs Eugene Curry, Jr. of Curry and Associates, Wyomissing, and Steven Weidman, Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager at Sovereign Bank. Both spoke at the campaign kickoff reception regarding the need for support from alumni and friends to help make the dream of a college education a reality for future scientists, writers, engineers, and teachers who are currently studying at Penn State Berks.

"Throughout our history, philanthropy has played a major role in our success," Speece remarked. "More than half a century ago, we opened our doors to several hundred students with a mission to provide quality education and training at an affordable price. We have been able to succeed in that mission, in part, due to the many faithful and generous individuals, corporations, and foundations that share our commitment to this region. Their support has enabled us to grow into a premier four-year college, currently offering 15 baccalaureate and 8 associate degrees and research opportunities to our 2,800 undergraduate students."

The launch of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students marks Penn State's third university-wide capital campaign since The Campaign for Penn State began in 1984. Penn State Berks' held several of its own fundraising campaigns prior to that, beginning with its first intensive fundraising initiative launched in the late 1960s when the "Berks Center" of Penn State was located on Hill Avenue in Wyomissing in the former Wyomissing Polytechnic Institute facilities. That campaign had a goal of $1 million to be used toward a new campus. With the help of community leaders, that goal was reached and in the fall of 1972, Penn State Berks opened for classes at its current location, now a sprawling 260-acre campus on Broadcasting Road in Spring Township.

The previous, university-wide Grand Destiny campaign, from 1996 to 2003, raised $1.37 billion for Penn State overall, and emphasized gifts for endowment of scholarships, professorships, and programs, along with matching gifts for selected bricks-and-mortar projects, including the Boscov-Lakin Information Commons and Cohen Cyber Cafe, additions to Berks' Thun Library Building.      

"Penn State's alumni and friends have recognized that the destiny of the University is in their hands," said Spanier. "Through For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students, our supporters will help us to affirm our role as the most comprehensive, student-centered, research university in America."

Contact:
Lisa Weidman, Penn State Berks, 610-396-6054, lrw6@psu.edu.
]]> Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:38:19 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31527.htm Off Campus Housing Fair scheduled for May 8 http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31526.htm
The program will begin at 9:15 a.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium with opening remarks from Dr. Blaine Steensland, Senior Director of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, and run until 1:00 p.m.

The fair will explain housing options, how to pay for housing, tips on leasing, and information on Penn State Berks Food Services plans. There will also be a networking opportunity for students to meet potential roommates while parents attend a question-and-answer session. The remainder of the day will be dedicated to bus tours of the Greater Reading area that highlight many of the services available in close proximity to popular student neighborhoods.

For more information on the Off Campus Housing Fair, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.
]]> Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:38:53 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31526.htm Alumni Association Holds Golf Outing and Dinner http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31524.htm
The golf outing will be held in a "shot-gun" format at both courses. Beverages (soda, water, and beer) will be provided. Dinner and an awards presentation will be held at Galen Hall Golf Club immediately following the outing.

The Alumni Association asks interested parties to additionally consider becoming an event sponsor. The registration form describes the various sponsorship levels available. Financial contributions are preferred, but donated items such as golf balls, gift certificates, and other giveaway items are also helpful to offset the cost of prizes, allowing a higher percentage of the proceeds to be donated to the THON Dance Marathon, The Second Mile, and the Penn State Berks Campus Scholarship Fund.

For more information or to obtain a registration form, please contact Rich Caputo, Alumni Association President, at 610-413-4520 or via e-mail at rcaputo@foxrothschild.com.
]]> Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:35:35 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31524.htm John Romano to speak at commencement http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31523.htm Romano_John_2010 A new class of more than 150 Penn State Berks students will receive their baccalaureate and associate degrees on Saturday, May 15, 2010, at 10 a.m. in the Beaver Community Center when Penn State Berks holds this spring's commencement ceremony.

The keynote speaker will be Dr. John J.  Romano, Vice President for Commonwealth Campuses at The Pennsylvania State University. In this position, Romano has held responsibilities for academic and administrative leadership for 19 undergraduate campuses across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In addition, he chairs the Council of Campus Chancellors and serves on various other University committees, including the Academic Leadership Council, President's Council, University Faculty Senate, Facilities Naming Committee, and Facilities Resources Committee, to name just a few.     

Romano has been a leader in general education, where he has served as an executive council member, executive director, and finally as president of the Association for General and Liberal Studies, a national organization committed to undergraduate general education reform and innovation. He has spoken on many issues of general education at numerous state and national functions on topics including the changing role of higher education, trends in general education, and challenges and opportunities in higher education.

Prior to Romano's current assignment, he served as the Vice Provost and Dean for Enrollment Management and Administration and Affiliate Associate Professor of Education at The Pennsylvania State University, which included administrative responsibility for Enrollment Management and the offices of Undergraduate Admissions, Student Aid, and University Registrar.  

From 1985 to 1993, Romano served as the Executive Officer at Penn State's York campus. He also served as Assistant and then Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies and Assistant Professor of Social Sciences in the College of the Liberal Arts, and for one year as the interim Director of the School of Journalism. Prior to his appointment at Penn State, Romano was the Assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs at the University of Delaware.

Romano earned his B.S. in secondary education (physics) from the State University of New York, College at Oswego. He holds a M.S. from Springfield College in guidance and counseling and a Ph.D. in counselor education from Penn State.
]]> Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:38:41 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31523.htm Penn State Berks Rugby Wins Division 3 National Collegiate Championship! http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31522.htm Penn State Berks withstood 15 minutes of last minute goal line attack by Keene State College to preserve its narrow lead at 11- 6 and win its first Division 3 national championship in college rugby at the Virginia Beach Sportsplex on Sunday, April 25, 2010. 

Berks had dodged a big bullet in Saturday’s semifinal match against William Paterson University when the New Jersey school stormed back to score a try on the last play of regulation to bring them within one point of Berks. The conversion kick to enable them to win the game slid off the far post by inches to preserve Berks’ victory, 17-16.  Matt ‘Teddy’ Moyer, Darryl Davis, and Eric Rubik scored trys and Casey Correa made a conversion to provide the victory margin. 

Berks entered the championship match against a strong Keene State team that had come back to defeat a powerful Louisiana-Lafayette team in the other semifinal on the boot of their talented English flyhalf. On the first play of the match after Berks kicked off, an alert Joe Morrione tackled, then stripped the Keene winger of the ball and ran in the try from 15 meters out. Five minutes later winger Casey Correa added a penalty kick for a Berks 8-0 lead. Berks enlarged their lead to 11-0 when winger Eric Rubik converted a monstrous 48 meter penalty kick to close out the half. In the second half, Berks played defensive rugby against the wind and the foot of the Keene flyhalf, and Keene converted two penalty kicks to tighten the score to 11-6. In the remaining 15 minutes, Berks tackled every Keene player in sight and held up the ball on several attempted Keene trys in goal to secure the dramatic victory. Berks’ flyhalf Cesare Coscia was named the Most Valuable Player of the finals. The national championship is the first for any Penn State Berks sports team and is the first Eastern Pennsylvania Rugby Union team to claim the championship. 
]]> Wed, 28 Apr 2010 10:16:39 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31522.htm Communications students present “Expression of Identity” http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31521.htm
“Students’ terms projects involve some kind of creative-based strategy so that their theoretical and conceptual arguments about intercultural communication can reach larger audiences,” says Cheryl Nicholas, professor of Intercultural Communication Theory and Research. “Our class goals are civic engagement and community based learning.”

For more information, please contact: Cheryl L. Nicholas, assistant professor of Communication Arts and Sciences, at 610-396-6168 or cln12@psu.edu.


]]> Wed, 28 Apr 2010 10:20:29 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31521.htm Student journeys from Sierra Leone to Penn State Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31516.htm
Sheriff's parents came to the United States from the area of Sierra Leone that was affected by the "blood diamond" wars. They fled the region, but his father returned and his mother followed a few years later, leaving Sheriff to live with an aunt in Philadelphia, who at times had more than seven other children living in the same house.

"Southwest Philadelphia was like Sierra Leone with all the violence and guns," Sheriff explains.

Sheriff's aunt made a living taking care of the elderly, often working nights. But she didn't have to worry about Sheriff or the other children in her care since she instilled the value of hard work and the importance of staying out of trouble.

"As long as you know who you are and what you want, you can say 'no' to anything," Sheriff states. "I know if I work hard toward what I want, I will succeed."

Sheriff graduated from high school in 2007, while many of his classmates dropped out-or worse-were killed as a result of gang violence. Yet when he tried to apply for financial aid to attend college, he was denied because he did not have any documentation about his parents, who had returned to Sierra Leone.

So Sheriff took a job at the Philadelphia Airport, working on the baggage ramp. There he met a coworker who told him about the ASPIRE program at Penn State Berks.

The ASPIRE program offers admission consideration to students who demonstrate the potential to be successful students, but who may require specialized and structured academic support services. The program is for Pennsylvania residents who are freshmen applicants.

Sheriff met with the ASPIRE program coordinator Yuriko Beaman, and he enrolled at Penn State Berks in the fall of 2009.

During his first semester, Sheriff continued to work full-time while taking classes and he still managed to make the Dean's List.

He comments that he has taken an interest in anatomy and physiology, due in part to one of his professors, Dr. Susan Monk.

"Dr. Monk made the class so interesting," he explains. "She's my motivation. Certain people make their mark on your life."

Sheriff is majoring in Occupational Therapy, and eventually he plans to apply to medical school, yet another leg on his journey to success.
]]> Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:54:53 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31516.htm Community service club camps out for hunger http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31515.htm  
"The students of Berks Cares were inspired by the Coalition to End Homelessness' initiatives to combat homelessness and hunger in our local community and designed the camp out event as a way to join the taskforce," explains Student Activities Coordinator Andrea Paff. "In a time when the University is in the midst of internationalization and encouraging students to think globally, I am excited to see our students so invested in the issue of homelessness and hunger that prevails just beyond our campus walls. "

During this event, students will camp outside on campus over night. The evening will open with an address from the Director of the Coalition to End Homelessness in Berks County, Sharon Parker.

The event has sparked the interest of approximately ten other student-run clubs and organizations on campus. Berks Cares has set a goal to raise $2,000 and 100 pounds of nonperishable goods to donate to the 41 local charitable organizations that comprise the Coalition to End Homelessness. The students of Berks Cares and the Campus Activities Board teamed up to plan a food drive in the local communities of Spring Township and Wyomissing.

Additionally, the students sought the support of local businesses who have helped sponsor the event by donating gift certificates other items. Business donations are currently displayed in the glass display case outside of the Freyberger Gallery in the Perkins Student Center, and they will be raffled off at the conclusion of the Camp Out.  Students, faulty and staff are encouraged to purchase their raffle tickets in Campus Life. Winners do not have to be present at the Camp Out to claim their prize.  All the proceeds will go to the Coalition to disburse amongst the associated organizations.

For more information, contact: Andrea Paff at 610-396-6367 or via e-mail at agp3@psu.edu.
]]> Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:52:44 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31515.htm "Get Some" explores relationships http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31514.htm
The next 30-minute show will be taped live at Penn State Berks WPSB-TV on Monday, April 26, 2010 and will air on WPSB-TV (channel 5) at 6 p.m. The program can also downloaded on iTunes.

"Get Some" is a joint venture of Penn State Berks Health Services and Penn State Berks WPSB-TV. Alice Holland, Penn State Berks Nurse Supervisor, is the host, and the show includes an interactive audience that features both college students and professionals as guests.

"The culmination of my past employment experiences at Blue Mountain Health System Family Planning Clinic, Lehighton Area School District, and Lehigh Valley Hospital, along with my present employment at Penn State, has prepared me with the assessment, interpersonal, and communication skills needed to host the show," explained Holland about her credentials.

In addition to her position as Health Services Supervisor at Penn State Berks, Holland also teaches courses in human sexuality. She is presently a Human Sexuality Doctoral Candidate and member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), American College Health Association (ACHA) and American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

For more information, contact Alice Holland at arh16@psu.edu or Penn State Berks WPSB TV at http://berkstv@psu.edu
]]> Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:53:28 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31514.htm Class Creates and Donates Motivational T-shirts to Opportunity House http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31513.htm
Students covered the cost of purchasing a t-shirt, markers, paints, and any other material they chose to use in creating the design. The shirts were created outside of class.

"Each design is different; every shirt unique. Some simple, some elegant ... all inspiring!" explains instructor Dr. Jim Huber, who teaches the Introduction to Psychology course. Huber, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Director of Huber Interactives, wanted the shirts to go to underprivileged children who may benefit from the inspirational message. The theme "I'll give you the shirt off my back" is designed to instill the importance of community service in students.
]]> Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:53:15 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31513.htm NOW at Berks theatre festival showcases student work http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31512.htm
The festival showcases six ten-minute, one-act plays written, performed, and produced by Penn State Berks students. The NOW 2010 faculty producer is Radhica Ganapathy, lecturer in theatre, and the student assistant producer is Erin Edelstein, a junior majoring in Theatre.

The following is a list of the plays, and the student playwrights and directors for NOW 2010:

"Road Trip" written by Cat Whelan (sophomore, Theatre major), directed by Andrew Vitalo (first-year student).

"Forever" written by Tarah Yoder (junior, Theatre major), directed by Kate Knorr (sophomore, Theatre major).

"Behind the Door" written by Courtney Vinson (senior, Theatre major), directed by Patrick O' Neill (junior, Communication Arts and Sciences major).

"Til Death Do Us Part" written by Julius Harrison (senior, Business major), directed by Tarah Yoder (Junior, theatre major).

"Falling from Grace" written by Savannah Ganster (senior, Professional Writing major), directed by Courtney Vinson.

"M.U.S.E." written by Andrew Vitalo, directed by Savannah Ganster.

General admission is $10, faculty, staff, and non-Penn State students with ID-$5, free to Penn State Berks students. For more information, contact Radhica Ganapathy, lecturer in theatre, at 610-396-6432 or via e-mail at rzg3@psu.edu.
]]> Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:56:47 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31512.htm Berks students inducted into national communication honors society http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31509.htm
The students included sophomore Greg Yaccarino, Communication Arts and Sciences major; junior Stephanie Yorks, Communication Arts and Sciences; and seniors Ciera Ganster, Communication Arts and Sciences; Chris Madden, Global Studies; Courtney McDermott, Communication Arts and Sciences; and Dillon Russell-Kenniston, Communication Arts and Sciences.

The NCA works to enhance research, teaching, and service produced by its members on topics of both intellectual and social significance and is the oldest and largest national organization to promote communication scholarship and education.


For more information, contact Dr. Michele Ramsey, Associate Professor of Communication Arts and Sciences and Women's Studies and Coordinator of the Communication Arts and Sciences degree program at 610-396-6148 or via e-mail at emr10@psu.edu. 
]]> Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:08:55 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31509.htm Dance Team holds camp for children http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31508.htm Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:02:42 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31508.htm Student art week celebrates creativity http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31507.htm  
In conjunction with the week-long theater production titled New Original Works (NOW), the student exhibition is called New Original Art Works. The gallery will showcase student paintings, installation, and photography, and the following events will be held.
 
Monday April 19-Women's Commission talent show and reception, 1:00-2:30 p.m.
 
Tuesday April 20-student poetry reading with acoustic guitar, beginning at 6:00 p.m.
 
Wednesday April 21-spoken word and hip-hop artists Young Brizz and Kidd Poet will share the spotlight, 6:00 p.m.
 
Thursday April 22-reception honoring all student artists and recognizing students who have published works in the third edition of the college Literary Arts Magazine, 6:00 p.m., and light refreshments will be served
 
Friday, April 23-student dance performance, 1:00-2:30 p.m.
 
The third edition of the Literary Arts Magazine features fifteen Berks students; some of these students will read from their works during the reception on Thursday, April 22. Marilyn J. Fox, Arts Coordinator at Penn State Berks, coordinates publication of the magazine.

"I created the magazine so that students involved in writing, poetry, and photography would have a venue for their work, as well as a beautiful piece for their portfolio and a keepsake," Fox commented.
 
Attendees are encouraged to stay for Theatre students' production of their own original works, which will be held each evening at 8:00 p.m.
]]> Thu, 15 Apr 2010 14:19:06 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31507.htm Blue & White Society sponsors fundraiser for IM Able Foundation http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31506.htm
The cost is $10 for adults and $8 for students in advance, $12 for adults and $10 for students at the door, and students can use their meal plan to pay for the dinner.

Founded by Penn State Berks alumnus Chris Kaag in 2007, the IM Able Foundation promotes the benefits of an active lifestyle to the disabled. Kaag, a disabled United States Marine, began fundraising efforts to purchase age-specific handcycles, a type of arm-powered bicycle that cost between $1,500-2,500 each, as well as to provide additional financial resources to disabled children who wish to purchase a handcycle.

Through the IM Able Foundation, Kaag promotes the idea that with today's technology, such as handcycles, it is possible for anyone who has a disability to increase their fitness levels, and thereby, reap the benefits of both physical and mental health.

For more information about the IM Able Foundation please visit: www.im-able.org/im-able-foundation.php.

To purchase tickets to the Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser, contact Heather Angstadt, Coordinator of Alumni Relations, at 610-396-6052 or hla2@psu.edu.

]]> Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:02:20 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31506.htm Prospective students invited to High School Junior Day http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31505.htm
The program offers information to high school juniors considering admission to Penn State Berks. Sessions will present information on Penn State admissions, financial aid, academics, student activities, athletics, and alumni benefits, as well as discussions with faculty, staff, and current students. A campus tour will complete the program.

For more information or to register, call 610-396-6060, e-mail us at berksadmissions@psu.edu or visit http://www.psu.edu/admission.
]]> Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:07:07 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31505.htm Students join forces to create devices for disabilities http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31504.htm  
The work is the result of interdisciplinary class projects in electrical engineering, taught by Dr. Henry Ansell, Assistant Professor of Engineering; mechanical engineering, taught by Dr. Rungun Nathan, Assistant Professor of Engineering; and occupational therapy, taught by David Kresse, Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy.

The annual event Devices for Disabilities event is coordinated by Ansell, and it is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Dr. Henry Ansell at 610-396-6125 or via e-mail at hga1@psu.edu.

]]> Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:03:39 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31504.htm China is featured during Berks Unity Day http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31503.htm
Activities in honor of the Chinese theme will include professional "dragon" dancers, as well as students enacting a Chinese wedding and presenting vocal and dance performances. Other highlights include a fashion show, big chair photos, and a DJ outside the Perkins Student Center.

Chancellor Susan Phillips Speece will host the annual "hands across campus" event at 1:00 p.m.

For more information, contact Karen Kihurani, Coordinator of Multicultural Programs, at 610-396-6080, via e-mail at kek5@psu.edu. ]]> Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:10:32 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31503.htm Berks holds "Iron Chef" challenge for prospective students http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31502.htm
Prospective students will work with students enrolled in the HRIM program to prepare dishes for the challenge. In addition, they will have an opportunity to speak with alumni and learn about the HRIM program and careers in the field.

For more information or to register, contact Jane Bauman at 610-396-6053. ]]> Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:09:36 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31502.htm Leading African literary figure to visit Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31498.htm
Tesfai is Eritrea's most prominent writer and is one of the leading literary figures in all of Africa. Widely read at home and abroad, his writing covers topics including history, political analysis, novels, short stories, plays, criticism, and tales for children. His works include the novel, Wedi Hadera, a collection of short stories, and the highly acclaimed play, The Other War.  He has also translated Ngugi wa Thiong'o's I Will Marry When I Want (Ms Teberhani Emir'o) into Tigrinya.  Over the last decade, Tesfai has focused on a three-volume writing project of Eritrean history in Tigrinya.  He is also the Head of the History Project in Eritrea's Research and Documentation Center in Asmara.

For more information, please contact Randall Fegley at 610-396-6092 or raf8@psu.edu. ]]> Fri, 09 Apr 2010 08:44:21 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31498.htm Student presents research to House of Representatives http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31497.htm JAmenta Jessica Amenta, a senior Biology major, was recently invited to present her research to the House of Representatives in Harrisburg on March 23, 2010. Her research, titled "Intraspecific Differences in Heat Loss Behavior Under Identical Climatic Conditions," addresses potential mechanisms by which species may respond to climate change.

Amenta was competitively selected as one of four students to represent Penn State at this event. She and 47 other students statewide presented posters of their undergraduate research, met with legislators, and were announced on the floor of the House of Representatives as the best and the brightest in the state.

In addition to being honored last Tuesday, back in November Jessica was awarded the Best Student Poster Award for this work at the International Meeting of the Waterbird Society, a professional society designated to the scientific study of waterbirds.

Amenta is currently working with Dr. Jennifer Arnold, Assistant Professor of Biology, on a manuscript on the study described in the poster and is planning on joining her in the field during the summer.

For more information, contact Dr. Arnold at 610-396-6174 or via e-mail at jma25@psu.edu.
]]> Fri, 09 Apr 2010 08:43:43 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31497.htm Spoken-word artist Medina covers injustice and lingerie http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31465.htm gabriela_garcia_medina Spoken-word artist Gabriela Garcia Medina will perform at Penn State Berks on Thursday, April 15, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room. This performance is free and open to the public.

Few spoken word artist can speak of revolution and do it with style; Medina is one of them. Born in Russia to Cuban parents, she has a unique perspective. Her poetry ranges from topics as serious as the social injustices to her love of wearing lingerie. Medina has been relentlessly touring colleges, festivals, and churches since 2007, and her words have found a permanent home on the walls of Eva Longoria's new restaurant "Besos" in Los Angeles.

This performance is part of the college's Arts and Lecture Series. For more information, contact the Campus Life Office at 610-396-6076.
]]> Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:32:30 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31465.htm Ramsey receives Women Commission's Achieving Women Award http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31464.htm Ramsey Dr. Michele Ramsey, Associate Professor of Communication Arts and Sciences and Women's Studies and coordinator of the Communication Arts and Sciences (CAS) degree program, has received the Women's Commission 2010 Achieving Women Award in the faculty category. Ramsey was nominated by her peers in recognition of her record of leadership and commitment to diversity at Penn State Berks.

Ramsey joined the college in 2000. She helped to facilitate the adoption of the CAS major, which has been offered since fall 2008. Under her tenure as program coordinator, enrollments in the CAS major have increased by 158%. She has organized many events for the majors to help them get involved and stay connected, including a picnic at the beginning of the academic year.

She organized the CAS Colloquium Series, which focuses on undergraduate research. She has also provided CAS majors with connections to local political candidates and business organizations that turned into internships, and has taken student to local, state, regional, and national conferences.

In addition, she has published research with students in "Feminist Media Studies" and has presented research at the national level with other students.

Ramsey established the Upsilon Gamma chapter of Lambda Pi Eta (National Communication Honor Society) in 2005, and coordinated all induction ceremonies and dinners from 2005-2008.

She supports community service by cooking and serving dinner at the Reading Homeless Shelter with students and working with them to create the Penn State Berks Hurricane Katrina Relief response, raising nearly $4000. Currently, Ramsey is supervising student relief efforts for Haiti.

Committed to diversity, Ramsey has organized the Berks Film Series, dealing with issues such as immigration, media, racism, gender issues, and health care. She has organized several events on campus, including World AIDS Day and Day of Silence events with the campus Rainbow Coalition of LGBT students. She also brought The Race Project to campus to discuss issues of race and political communication.

Ramsey received the 2008 Commission on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Equity Award for Excellence in Curricular Integration for her work in and out of class with students on issues of importance to the LGBT community.

The Women's Commission Achieving Women Award recognizes Penn State women who have shown notable leadership and are accomplished in their fields, and have supported the University's diversity efforts and promoted equal opportunity, or have contributed to human causes and public service activities. Eligible women are current employees and students of Penn State in the following categories: faculty, staff exempt, staff non-exempt, administrator, technical service, undergraduate student, and graduate student. One award is typically given in each of the seven categories.
]]> Mon, 05 Apr 2010 16:31:25 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31464.htm Kulturel-Konak organizes ALIO-INFORMS panel on international collaborations http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31463.htm Kulturel-Konak Dr. Sadan Kulturel-Konak, Associate Professor of Management Information Systems and the coordinator of Engineering Entrepreneurship Minor at Penn State Berks and president of Women in Operations Research/Management Sciences (WORMS), is organizing and moderating a panel discussion on international collaborations for the Association of Latin-Iberoamerican Operational Research Societies and Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (ALIO-INFORMS) Joint International Meeting, which will be held June 6-9, 2010 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Sponsored by the WORMS, this panel will focus on different means of international collaborations such as funded projects, international research and teaching projects, and sabbaticals. Panelists will discuss their unique perspectives in the issues affecting the success of women in academic positions in the U.S. and in the Latin American countries.

Moderated by Kulturel-Konak, the panel will include Dr. Gulnara Baldoquin, Instituto Politécnico José Antonio Echeverría, Cuba; Dr. Karla Hoffman, George Mason University; Dr. Anna Nagurney, University of Massachusetts; and Dr. Lorena Predanas, Universidad de Concepción, Chile.

WORMS is a forum of the Institute of Operations Research Management Sciences (INFORMS), the largest professional society in the world for professionals in the field of operations research with about 10,000 members worldwide. WORMS was established in 1995 and has about 200 members worldwide.
]]> Fri, 02 Apr 2010 10:31:50 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31463.htm Berks to host Goofball Games in support of Berks Women in Crisis http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31462.htm
Berks Women in Crisis is an organization dedicated to helping eliminate domestic violence in Berks County. The Goofball Games are open to Penn State Berks faculty, staff, students, and alumni. Each team needs four members, and registration is in room 19 of the Perkins Student Center. The donation is forty dollars per team and proceeds benefit Berks Women in Crisis. All participants will also receive a ticket to the Reading Phillies game scheduled for that evening.

This event is sponsored by the Consortium on Student Involvement, a collaborative group comprised of members of the Higher Education Council of Berks County, as well as Penn State Schuylkill. For more information, contact John Gallagher, Assistant Director of Student Affairs at Penn State Berks at 610-396-6068 or jag38@psu.edu.
]]> Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:32:19 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31462.htm Penn State Berks Rugby Team wins first Middle Atlantic title http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31461.htm
Berks had to overcome three conference #1 seeds in two weeks of play to earn the championship. They dispatched Frostburg State a week ago 21-3 on their home field. Then in the first match of the MARFU championships, Berks manhandled Virginia champion, Christopher Newport University, 32-12 in the semifinal. Trys were scored by Darryl Davis, Dan DeFelice, Matt Moyer (2), Matt Sibio, and Joe Morrione.  Eric Roubik added a conversion.

In the final on Sunday, Berks was looking to avenge a close loss to rival Widener from the fall EPRU D3 championship final.  Again, Berks stormed out of the blocks to lead 18-3 at halftime. Trys were scored by Matt Moyer, Eric Roubik, and Darryl Davis, and Roubik kicked a penalty kick. After another Roubik penalty kick, Widener cut the lead to 21-15, but Berks answered with 19 straight points to close out the match. Trys were scored by Dan Kelly, Brandon Emenike, and Matt Moyer. Casey Correa added two conversions.

Penn State Berks Rugby becomes the first University team to reach a national final four in Penn State history. ]]> Tue, 30 Mar 2010 16:37:17 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31461.htm Students to visit New York for lesson in macabre art http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31460.htm The Addams Family: A New Musical, featuring Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre.

“This trip promises a fun, educational experience on macabre art for faculty and students alike,” says Dr. Christian Weisser, Associate Professor of English and Coordinator of Professional Writing.

The event will be funded through the Mrs. Harold Grout and Mrs. C. Glenn Kauffman Endowment for the Arts, as well as the Faculty Project Fund.

For more information, please contact Dr. Christian Weisser at 610-396-6416 or via e-mail at crw17@psu.edu. ]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 08:11:12 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31460.htm Life Coach Elaine Williams explores eating disorders http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31459.htm elaine_williams Certified life coach and an eating disorder survivor Elaine Williams will demonstrate her unique ability to make this serious subject entertaining on Monday, March 29, 2010 at 1:10 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium. (This event was originally scheduled Feb. 10, 2010 but was rescheduled due to inclement weather.) The presentation is free and open to the public.

Williams was put on her first diet when she was six years old, and was binging, purging, and abusing laxatives by the time she was twelve. Her weight went up and down as she went from diet to diet over the years, obsessing about food, exercise, and her weight. After finally putting down the laxatives and other drugs, she had to uncover the underlying reasons why she abused herself and ate when she was not hungry. Williams shares her insight into why so many young adults struggle with emotional eating when dealing with the pressures of college life.

Certified through the Ford Institute for Integrative Coaching at JFK University, Williams is a sought after speaker and respected expert in the field. This presentation is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076. ]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 08:08:13 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31459.htm "Get Some" explores body art http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31458.htm
"Get Some" is a joint venture of Penn State Berks Health Services and Penn State Berks WPSB-TV. Alice Holland, Penn State Berks Nurse Supervisor, is the host, and the show includes an interactive audience that features both college students and professionals as guests.

"The culmination of my past employment experiences at Blue Mountain Health System Family Planning Clinic, Lehighton Area School District, and Lehigh Valley Hospital, along with my present employment at Penn State, has prepared me with the assessment, interpersonal, and communication skills needed to host the show," explained Holland about her credentials.

In addition to her position as Health Services Supervisor at Penn State Berks, Holland also teaches courses in human sexuality. She is presently a Human Sexuality Doctoral Candidate and member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), American College Health Association (ACHA) and American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

For more information, contact Alice Holland at arh16@psu.edu or Penn State Berks WPSB TV at http://berkstv@psu.edu. ]]> Fri, 26 Mar 2010 12:56:35 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31458.htm Reading School District students to participate in "Be a Penn Stater for a Day" http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31457.htm Students from Reading High School (RHS) will visit Penn State Berks for the second annual "Be a Penn Stater for a Day" program on Monday, March 29, 2010 from 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. The program is designed to encourage high school students to pursue higher education.

Approximately thirty tenth-graders will participate in the program. Each high school student will be individually matched with a college student mentor for the day. The RHS students will experience a typical day on campus with their mentor from 10:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. During this time, the RHS students will attend classes with their mentor, have lunch in the campus cafeteria, talk with faculty and staff, and visit various locations on campus.

In addition to the shadowing experience, the RHS students will experience a full day of activities including a continental breakfast, an ice breaker session, an admissions and financial aid workshop, a campus tour given by student Lion Ambassadors, an informal dinner, presentations about Pennsylvania College Advising Corps-Penn State (PACAC), Penn State Educational Partnership Program (PEPP), and ASPIRE, an Educational Opportunity Program at Penn State Berks that supports students as they navigate their college career. In addition, the Office of Residence Life will offer a presentation titled "To Start Your Journey," and the day will end with a fun group activity in the Beaver Community Center.

The RHS students will receive a backpack upon arrival at the event filled with Penn State Berks items, information, and snacks and a "Be a Penn Stater for a Day" tee shirt, provided by the Student Government Association.

Half of the students were selected by the Pennsylvania College Advising Corps-Penn State (PACAC), an organization that employs Penn State graduates as college advisers at high schools through southeastern Pennsylvania, including Reading High School, to help juniors and seniors with the college search and application process.

]]> Fri, 26 Mar 2010 12:55:45 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31457.htm Spanish minor to be offered fall 2010 http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31456.htm
"We offer different tracks that aim at addressing the Spanish needs of all our students, including our quickly-growing segment of students of Hispanic heritage," explains Rosario Torres, Associate Professor of Spanish and coordinator of the Spanish minor.

Penn State Berks is one of only three campuses in the Penn State system to offer a Spanish minor. Students who enroll in the minor will learn about the language and the culture of Spanish-speaking countries and communities around the world. For more information, contact Rosario Torres at 610-396-6408 or via e-mail at rzt1@psu.edu.
]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 08:10:04 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31456.htm Berks awarded National Collegiate Inventors and Innovators Alliance Grant http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31455.htm
Dr. Janelle Larson, Associate Professor of Agricultural Economics and Division Head for Engineering, Business and Computing, and Dr. Sadan Kulturel-Konak, Associate Professor of Management Information Systems and coordinator of the Entrepreneurship Minor, submitted the grant proposal.

This grant will support the development of international and interdisciplinary virtual entrepreneurship teams (e-teams), which bring multidisciplinary faculty, students, and industry mentors together. These e-teams will focus on economic, social, and environmental issues in two settings: a multi-faceted program for former street children in Kenya and the Latino community of Reading, Pennsylvania.

Penn State Berks seeks to collaborate with NCIIA to create the "Internationalizing Entrepreneurship Education Program (IEEP)" in an effort to set and create the "culture" of the new Entrepreneurship minor. The main objectives of this program are:

-to globalize the minor at Penn State Berks through innovative programs and faculty enrichment in order to prepare students to be independent world-class innovators,

-to build an ongoing program educating and engaging Penn State Berks and Kenyan university students in international and interdisciplinary projects while exploring technology-based solutions for participating communities' challenges,

-to foster a sense of responsibility for environmental sustainability and the welfare of others locally and internationally by creating virtual e-teams working on appropriate projects.

NCIIA's mission is to support technology innovation and entrepreneurship in universities and colleges to create experiential learning opportunities for students, and successful, socially beneficial businesses.

]]> Mon, 29 Mar 2010 08:07:18 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31455.htm Clinton's "YES on K8" tour to come to Berks http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31441.htm CLINTON_KATE_reddot

Faith-based, tax-paying, America-loving political humorist and entertainer Kate Clinton will bring her wit and satire to Penn State Berks on Wednesday, March 31, at 7:30 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium. This event is free and open to the public.

With a career spanning over 28 years, Clinton has worked through economic booms and busts, "Disneyfication" and "Walmartization," gay movements and gay markets, lesbian chic and queer eyes, and eight presidential inaugurals. She still believes that humor gets us through peacetime, wartime, and economic down times.

Clinton is traveling the US and Canada on her "YES on K8" tour, prompting Americans to "get off your troubled assets; it's time for some comic relief."

For more information, please contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.

]]> Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:11:08 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31441.htm "Finding My Lifesaver": Big Ten champ to speak on triumphs, trials http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31440.htm Finding My Lifesaver Kristen Woodring will explore the pressure of being a student athlete in her presentations on April 1 at 9:45 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room as part of Kinesiology Day. This event is free and open to the public, but attendees who are not enrolled in the college are encouraged to RSVP by calling the Kinesiology Office at 610-396-6150.

Like so many high-performing athletes, Woodring spent most of her life training, competing, and winning. But all of her hard work felt wasted when she lost sight of herself and her love of swimming. Her book, Finding My Lifesaver, gives athletes, parents and coaches insight into the pressures student athletes face when they aim to compete at a high level. She raises the issues of mental health and balance that are often overlooked in the world of sports.

This program is part of Kinesiology Day at Penn State Berks, established in dedication of the late Sheila Ridley, a Penn State Berks Kinesiology instructor who was instrumental in the development of the Kinesiology major's Wellness Specialization Option, renamed "Exercise Science," which is currently offered at Penn State Berks.

For more information on this event and Kinesiology Day, please contact Helen Hartman at 610-396-6201 or via e-mail at hah7@psu.edu.
]]> Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:18:17 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31440.htm Wyandt finished first in USBC Intercollegiate Singles Tournament http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31439.htm
The US Bowling Congress sanctions over 2,700 students at 180 colleges and universities annually.  All bowlers are eligible to compete in the singles tournaments held at four locations nationally.  Wyandt finished first in the Allentown region, out of a field of 133 students.  His pin total for the tournament ranked fourth nationwide.

As a tournament winner, Wyandt, a junior Information Sciences and Technology major, will compete among the top 16 collegiate bowlers in the country at the USBC Intercollegiate Singles Championships on May 16-19, 2010 in Euless, Texas.

The weekend featured Penn State Berks men's and women's teams in competition as well.  Both teams finished 13th, the men out of a field of eighteen, women out of a field of fourteen.
]]> Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:18:55 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31439.htm Freyberger Gallery presents "Robert Ian Pepper: 25 Years of Portraits in Berks" http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31438.htm Pepper_at_easel_ The Penn State Berks Freyberger Gallery will present Robert Ian Pepper: 25 Years of Portraits in Berks, from March 18 to April 15, 2010. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, March 18, at 6:00 p.m. in the Freyberger Gallery. This event is free and open to the public and light refreshments will be served.

Robert Ian Pepper's scope of work is linked less by imagery, style, or media, and more by character, passion, and drive. From his earliest street chalk drawings, completed in the '80s in his native Manchester, England, through his progression of still life, constructions, geometric art, and portraits, energy is the common denominator that links the work.

In the exhibition "25 Years of Portraits in Berks," Pepper shares a collection of commissioned portraits, as well as paintings of friends. He has painted portraits for more than thirty, from the street drawings, to assertive and energetic paintings of families, children, and associates.

The Freyberger Gallery is open Monday through Wednesday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

For more information, contact Marilyn Fox at 610-396-6140 or via e-mail at mjf14@psu.edu.
]]> Tue, 16 Mar 2010 09:31:14 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31438.htm Entrepreneurship Speaker Series slated for March 29 http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31435.htm
The panelists include Jennifer Leinbach, Coordinator of the Keysone Innovation Zone; Ethan Hirsch, Undergraduate Director of the Penn State Entrepreneurship Network and a member of the Sapphire Leadership Program in Penn State's Smeal College of Business; and Bradley Shively, member of the Penn State Entrepreneurship Network. Shively has a dual major in Security and Risk Analysis and Information Sciences and Technology.

The Entrepreneurship Speaker Series is presented by the Division of Engineering, Business, and Computing at Penn State Berks. The college began offering the minor in Entrepreneurship in the spring 2009 semester.

"Our hope is that our other students are encouraged by seeing their peers involved in all kinds of entrepreneurial initiatives," comments Dr. Sadan Kulturel-Konak, Associate Professor of Management Information Systems and coordinator of the event.

For more information, contact Dr. Sadan Kulturel-Konak at 610-396-6137 or via e-mail at sadan@psu.edu.
]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:13:25 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31435.htm Berks to Host Dances of Universal Peace http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31434.htm universal_peace_dance_symbol Penn State Berks will host Dances of Universal Peace on Saturday, March 20, 2010 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room. This event is free and open to the public.

A form of spiritual meditative dance conducted with a group of dancers and led by a dance leader, who usually plays a guitar or drum; each dance has a chant, which is sung as the dance is performed. The chants are often sacred phrases put to traditional or contemporary melodies, and include a wide range of languages including Arabic, Aramaic, English, Hawaiian, Hebrew, Persian, and Sanskrit.

The emphasis is on participation regardless of ability. Participants of all levels dance together and each dance is usually taught at each performance. Dances are choreographed to encourage the dancer to explore the deeper mystical meaning of the chant. The practice of the dance is claimed to develop the participants' spiritual awareness, awareness of their own body and awareness of the presence of others.

The Dances of Universal Peace were first formulated in the late 1960s by Samuel L. Lewis and were first performed in California. The original dances were strongly influenced by Lewis' spiritual contact with Ruth St. Denis, a modern dance pioneer, and Hazrat Inayat Khan, a Sufi master. The influence on the dances of Sufi practices such as Sema and The Whirling Dervishes are apparent, although Lewis was also a Rinzai Zen master and drew on the teachings of the major religious and spiritual traditions, including native traditions.

The Dances have since developed into a global movement. The Network for the Dances of Universal Peace has members in 28 countries and have increasingly come to be offered in schools, colleges, prisons, hospices, residential homes for those with special needs, and holistic health centers.

For more information, contact Dr. Paul Frye, instructor in Speech Communication, at paf11@psu.edu. ]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:12:01 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31434.htm Penn State Berks to hold groundbreaking ceremony for new building http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31433.htm biest Penn State Berks will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for its new academic building on Thursday, March 18, 2010 at 1:30 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the building site, between the campus' Franco Building and Thun Library, located just off Broadcasting Road.

The 58,000-square-foot classroom and laboratory building will free up much-needed space in other campus facilities. Alvin H. Butz Inc., Allentown, will manage construction. "We are at 95 percent occupancy in our classrooms during the day, and we have no occupancy in our classrooms at night," said Chancellor Susan Phillips Speece.

The international architectural firm RMJM Hillier was given a daunting challenge: design a new academic building that would meet the complex and varied needs of the Business, Engineering, and Information Sciences and Technology (BEIST) Division, meet requirements of The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System, and fit into the picturesque landscape of Penn State Berks.

They rose to the challenge with their schematic design concept for the new building, which has been dubbed the BEIST for the division it will house. The $25.6 million project, which is slated for completion in the spring of 2012, will make use of technology in keeping with the college's commitment to the environment.

The terra cotta, concrete and glass building would provide space for courses in business, engineering and information sciences and technology, as well as hotel, restaurant and institutional management.

The three-story facility will be the largest building on campus, Speece said. The facility will feature nine classrooms, 13 labs, a lecture hall, conference rooms, and dozens of faculty and administrative offices. The Chancellor's Office, a design studio, student study areas, and a cafe also will also be housed in the building.

Relocating classrooms and faculty offices to the new building would free up space in the Luerssen and Franco buildings on campus.

With an enrollment of 2,759 students, Penn State Berks offers 15 baccalaureate degrees, eight associate degrees and a variety of continuing education courses. Students can also take the first two years of 160 bachelor degree programs that can be completed at other Penn State campuses. The college provides a rich student life, with 800 students living in residence halls, a wide variety of clubs and organizations, cultural events, lectures, and many other activities. In addition, Penn State Berks is a full member of NCAA Division III.
]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:16:00 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31433.htm Berks students choose service for spring break http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31428.htm
Organized by Pastor David Hershey, adviser to the Berks student group and member of the Christian Student Foundation of Pennsylvania, the initiative will include 22 students from Penn State Berks students, who will join Penn State students from University Park and Dubois campuses, as well as University of Pittsburgh students, on this week-long excursion. A total of 80 students will be involved in the week-long initiative.

In addition, Mark Groff, a Police Services Officer at Berks, will accompany the student group. Groff is also actively involved in the group's activities.

Hershey has organized past student service trips to areas affected by Hurricane Katrina, and a variety of other places.

"I am excited about this year's trip because it gives our students an opportunity to use a wide variety of skills," explains Hershey.

While past service trips have focused on rebuilding and construction, this initiative will allow to students to use other skills, allowing those who don't know much about construction to feel more involved, explains Hershey.

The group will depart from Berks on Friday, March 5, 2010 at 8:00 p.m., and drive to Penn State Harrisburg, where they will board a bus with the other student volunteers. They will depart from Miami on Saturday, March 13, 2010.

]]> Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:51:40 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31428.htm Teach for America recruits two Berks students http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31427.htm
Kenniston is a Schreyer Scholar who will graduate with bachelor's degrees in Professional Writing and Communication Arts and Sciences, and Werner, currently studying abroad in Ireland, will graduate with a bachelor degree in Global Studies. Both expect to be assigned to urban Texas public schools.

Teach For America is an organization that recruits outstanding recent college graduates from all backgrounds and career interests to commit to teach for two years in urban and rural public schools with the aim of working to eliminate educational equality. The organization provides the training and ongoing support necessary to ensure their success as teachers in low-income communities.

"The ideal 'land of opportunity' falls desperately short when children rise and fall in academic performance based largely on social conditions that extend far beyond their control," says Kenniston. "I wanted to join Teach For America because justice and fairness are not merely abstract ideas-they are concrete principles whose realization is my top priority."

Werner recalls his inspiration to apply to the program: "I had a desire to help the kids who needed my help the most. I grew up in a good community in central Pennsylvania. However, our rival school in the city had terrible graduation rates and low numbers of students going on to higher education. I decided to apply to Teach For America so that I can give students the hope, confidence, and knowledge they need to become great students and people."

]]> Fri, 05 Mar 2010 10:45:46 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31427.htm Theatre program presents Naga Mandala http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31426.htm king_cobra The Penn State Berks Theatre program will present a performance of Girish Karnad's Naga Mandala, from March 18-21, 2010 and March 25-28, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. (Sundays at 2:00 p.m.) in the Perkins Student Center Theatre. Tickets are $10 for general admission, $5 for Penn State faculty and staff with ID, and $2 for Penn State students with ID.

Naga Mandala is the story of a young bride, Rani, who is married to Appanna. It is quickly revealed that Appanna is unfaithful to his bride and maintains an emotional and physical distance from her. In an effort to win his love, Rani decides to drug him with a magical love root that is given to her by an old neighbor, Kurudavva. Unaware of its power, Rani is overcome with fear and doubt that the magical root might cause more harm than good. She loses her nerve, and instead of offering it to her husband, she throws the milk concoction containing the magical root into an ant hill.

It turns out that the ant hill is actually the home of Naga, a King Cobra. According to an old Indian legend, King Cobras can assume any form they desire including that of a human. That night, Naga decides to visit Rani in the form of her husband, Appanna. Drawing upon Indian folktales and myths that have been passed down for generations, Naga Mandala takes on supernatural worlds to symbolically portray how a woman's power emerges through the metamorphosis of a serpent.

This production is directed by Dr. Radhica Ganapathy, Lecturer in Theatre at Penn State Berks. The cast includes Sydney Rotundo-Jones (first-year student) as Rani; Andrew Vitalo (junior, Theatre) as Appanna/Naga; and Courtney Vinson (junior, Theatre) as Kurudavva.

The cast is rounded out by the following students in order of appearance: Pat O'Neill (sophomore, Theatre) as The Man/Village People; Tarah Yoder (junior, Theatre) as Flame #1/Village People; Kate Knorr (sophomore, Theatre) as Flame #2/Village People; Whitney Henzler (first-year student, Business) as Flame #3/Village People; Amanda Evans (sophomore, Theatre) as New Flame/Village People; Rita Yarsinsky (first-year student, Theatre and Communication Arts and Sciences) as The Story; and Kevin King (junior, Theatre) as Kappanna/Elder.

Cat Whelan (sophomore, Theatre and Applied Psychology) serves as the stage manager and Erin Edelstein (junior, Theatre and Communication Arts and Sciences) is the Assistant Stage Manager.

For more information or to reserve tickets, call the Box Office at 610-396-6371. ]]> Fri, 05 Mar 2010 10:39:28 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31426.htm Fifth Annual Spring Equinox Festival slated for March 20 http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31425.htm
This is the first Spring Equinox Festival to be held on a weekend, and it will feature additional entertainment and activities, including live music by the Exeter Community Band (weather permitting). In addition, theatre students will perform the opening scene from Naga Mandala, a campus theatre production, which begins on March 18.

A half-hour equinox program will be held beginning at 1:32 p.m. (the actual time of the Vernal Equinox) and will include a short astronomy lesson, a discussion of spring traditions, folklore, and poetry readings. Some of the other highlights of the day will include a drumming circle from Earth Rhythms, a yoga and meditation circle, inspirational oracle readings, a moving documentary on lives transformed by walking a labyrinth, bulb plantings, face painting, and craft projects.

To add to the festivities, attendees are encouraged to wear spring-themed attire or accessories, and a costume contest will be held.

This event is co-sponsored by the Penn State Berks Labyrinth Circle and the following student groups: the Sisterhood of Professional Ladies, the Yoga and Meditation Society, and the Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Club. The event is supported in part by the Beaver Endowment for Community Service.

For more information, contact Connie Dunston, Labyrinth Coordinator, at 610-396-6011.
]]> Fri, 05 Mar 2010 10:45:06 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31425.htm Buca Di Beppo Fundraiser Benefits Berks Alumni Society http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31424.htm gnkmanmiller@verizon.net. ]]> Fri, 05 Mar 2010 10:35:44 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31424.htm College celebrates life of Dean and CEO Emeritus Frederick Gaige http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31423.htm Dr._Gaige_reddot Penn State Berks will celebrate the life of Dr. Frederick H. Gaige with a special event on Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium, followed by a reception in the Freyberger Gallery. This event is free and open to the public.

Known to many as a visionary leader, Gaige served as Dean and CEO of Penn State Berks from 1984-2001, helping to transform the campus into a college with four-year academic programs and residence halls. He was also instrumental in significantly increasing student enrollment, endowment, and physical facilities.

The event will begin with reflections on Gaige's contributions from community members and former Penn State Berks colleagues and students, as well as a discussion of Gaige's scholarship in Nepal. The second half of the program will feature a presentation by Nancy Dorrier, President of Dorrier Underwood, executive consultant, futurist, and speaker on transformation, who will deliver a talk titled "Envisioning Our Future."

During the sixteen years Gaige served as dean and CEO, the campus had expanded from 1,000 students in four major buildings on 135 acres of land to 2,100 students in seven major buildings and thirteen smaller structures on 240 acres of land.

Gaige was a noted scholar in the field of South Asian studies and became an early expert on Nepal, where he did research on a Fulbright Fellowship from 1966-1968. His research culminated in the publication of Regionalism and National Unity in Nepal. He returned to Nepal as a Fulbright Lecturer in 1983 and, in 1991, he served as a consultant to the Asia Foundation and U.S. Agency for International Development on the first democratic elections in Nepal.

A community activist who volunteered with numerous organizations, Gaige was one of the leaders of the successful effort to change the Reading city charter (Reading Citizens for Effective Government). He was also elected as a board member of the Reading School District and he was an appointed member of the Berks County Planning Commission.

He also served as a member of the board of directors of The Reading Hospital and Medical Center, Police Athletic League, Hispanic Center, and many other organizations.

Gaige earned his doctoral degree in South Asian studies from the University of Pennsylvania in 1970, a master's degree in history from Brown University in 1963, and a bachelor's degree in history from Oberlin College in 1959.

He is survived by his wife, Austra, and their two daughters, Karina A. Gaige and Amity W. Gaige and their families.
]]> Fri, 05 Mar 2010 10:36:37 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31423.htm HRIM Dinner features a French cuisine and wine-tasting journey http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31414.htm  
The four-course meal will be complemented with four distinctive wine pairings. Sommelier Luis Pereira will guide attendees as they smell and taste the wine and help identify what flavors are present. The menu includes salad with champagne vinaigrette, paired with Congress Springs, Santa Barbar County chardonnay; sliced shoulder filet with burgundy sauce, accompanied by Terrasas de Los Andes, Argentina Malbec; French cheeses, nuts, and fruit, paired with Henry Savard Blanc de Blancs Brut; and finally marquis chocolate cake with Black Muscat dessert wine.

In addition to the dinner, Dr. Jim Bardi, coordinator for the Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management (HRIM) associate degree program and assistant professor of Hospitality Management, will be honored for his thirty years of service and for receiving the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association's Wilmer S. Lapp Keystone Award. The award recognizes significant and noteworthy contributions to the industry and community on behalf of the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association (PRA) at the chapter and statewide levels.

The cost for the dinner is $45 per person. For more information or to reserve your seat, please reply by March 12 to Ryan Szivos at 610-396-6057.
]]> Fri, 05 Mar 2010 10:37:33 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31414.htm Daly discusses black hole spins at AAS conference http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31413.htm color_ruth_daly Dr. Ruth Daly, Professor of Physics, was invited to participate in a press conference during the American Astronomical Society meeting in Washington D.C. on January 4, 2010. Daly was one of several astronomers who announced new advances in understanding the giant black holes that inhabit the centers of nearly all large galaxies.

The conference was covered by Sky & Telescope magazine in an article titled, "Black-Hole Bonanza" by Robert Naeye. The following is an excerpt from that article.

"The group, led by Daly, studied 55 supermassive black holes that are producing powerful high-speed particle jets. Using a new method that she published last year, Daly estimated each hole's spin from the jet's power. She found a wide range of black-hole spins among her 55 objects. The most distant of them, up to 10 billion light-years away and seen when the universe was young, spin at the maximum speed theoretically possible. But closer black holes, some just a few tens of millions of light-years away in essentially the present-day universe, spin at only about 10% to 80% of their theoretical maximum speed."

Daly's research was supported in part by a grant from the National Science Foundation and Penn State University.

Daly has been working in the fields of extragalactic astrophysics and cosmology for more than 20 years. She has published over 70 papers including more than 40 peer reviewed publications. Many of the papers included graduate and undergraduate students as co-authors. In addition, she is frequently an invited speaker at major national and international meetings.

In 2006, Daly received the Penn State Berks Outstanding Researcher Award in recognition of her research accomplishments. Prior to this, she was the recipient of a prestigious National Science Foundation National Young Investigator Award, a NSF/NATO Postdoctoral Fellowship, and a NASA Graduate Student Researcher Fellowship.
]]> Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:40:39 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31413.htm Fidanza speaks at Sustainable Turf Conference in Czech Republic http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31412.htm Fidanza_MikeJS3_7393(1) Dr. Michael Fidanza, Associate Professor of Horticulture, was invited to speak at the New Findings for Sustainable Turfgrass Management conference, an event sponsored by Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry and the Czech Greenskeepers Association. The meeting was held December 1-3, 2009 in Brno. This is the first invited turfgrass science and management program conducted by Mendel University. The event was covered by Crops, Soils, Agronomy News in their February 2010 issue.

Fidanza's research focus is turfgrass ecology, specifically turfgrass IPM and the evaluation of plant protection products (i.e., fungicides, herbicides, plant growth regulators) and cultural practices in turfgrass ecosystems, and the biology and ecology of fairy ring disease in turfgrass. Fidanza also investigates the benefits and uses of spent mushroom substrate for the lawn and landscape, crop production, and the environment. All research involves collaborations with scientists from many other academic institutions as well as industry.

Fidanza is active in the American Phytopathological Society, American Society of Agronomy, American Society of Horticultural Science (Associate Editor for HortTechnology), Crop Science Society of America, North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA Journal review board), Northeastern Weed Science Society of America, and many other professional and trade organizations.

Fidanza also conducts pedagogical research, and teaches undergraduate courses in Biology (Plants, Places, and People), Turfgrass  (The Turfgrasses), and Soils (Introduction to Soils. He was named by Golfweek's SuperNews as one of the "Top 40 Green Industry Professionals Under the Age of 40."
]]> Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:41:35 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31412.htm Grobman edits book on undergraduate research in English studies http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31411.htm Grobman-newswire A new book, Undergraduate Research in English Studies, addresses the issue of whether undergraduates in English should have the same opportunities as those in the sciences to benefit from undertaking real research that can inform and have an impact on practitioners in the discipline. They should and can, according to editors Laurie Grobman and Joyce Kinkead, who have produced this collection to showcase the first steps being made to integrate undergraduate research into English studies and, even more important, to point the way toward greater involvement. Grobman is the founding editor of Young Scholars in Writing, a peer-reviewed journal for students, and also Professor of English and Women's Studies at Penn State Berks.

Undergraduate Research in English Studies is a groundbreaking collection-the first to focus on student scholarship in English--that aims to mobilize the profession of English studies to further participate in undergraduate research, an educational movement and comprehensive curricular innovation that is "the pedagogy for the twenty-first century," according to the Joint Statement of Principles composed by the Council on Undergraduate Research and the National Conferences on Undergraduate Research.

Students engaged in genuine research gain an insider's understanding of field-specific debates, develop relevant skills and insights for future careers and graduate study, and contribute their voices to creating knowledge through the research process.

Some contributors discuss the importance of mentoring, how to conduct research responsibly, and avenues for disseminating research and scholarship locally, regionally, nationally, or internationally. Others provide case studies of undergraduate research in literature and in composition and rhetoric.

The volume combines theory and practice, and lays the groundwork for further practice and inquiry, sending forth a call to broaden undergraduate research possibilities in all areas of English. The volume is part of the Refiguring English Studies series available from the National Council on Teachers of English (NCTE). It can be found at http://www1.ncte.org/store/books/130986.htm

 

]]> Mon, 01 Mar 2010 11:51:16 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31411.htm Grobman edits book on undergraduate research in English studies http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31407.htm Grobman-newswire

A new book, Undergraduate Research in English Studies notes why shouldn't undergraduates in English have the same opportunities as those in the sciences to benefit from undertaking real research that can inform and have an impact on practitioners in the discipline? They should and can, according to editors Laurie Grobman and Joyce Kinkead, who have produced this collection to showcase the first steps being made to integrate undergraduate research into English studies and, even more important, to point the way toward greater involvement. Grobman is the founding editor of Young Scholars in Writing, a peer-reviewed journal for students, and also Professor of English and Women's Studies at the Penn State Berks campus.

Undergraduate Research in English Studies is a groundbreaking collection-the first to focus on student scholarship in English--that aims to mobilize the profession of English studies to further participate in undergraduate research, an educational movement and comprehensive curricular innovation that is "the pedagogy for the twenty-first century," according to the Joint Statement of Principles composed by the Council on Undergraduate Research and the National Conferences on Undergraduate Research.

Students engaged in genuine research gain an insider's understanding of field-specific debates, develop relevant skills and insights for future careers and graduate study, and contribute their voices to creating knowledge through the research process.

Some contributors discuss the importance of mentoring, how to conduct research responsibly, and avenues for disseminating research and scholarship locally, regionally, nationally, or internationally. Others provide case studies of undergraduate research in literature and in composition and rhetoric.

The volume combines theory and practice, and lays the groundwork for further practice and inquiry, sending forth a call to broaden undergraduate research possibilities in all areas of English. The volume is part of the Refiguring English Studies series available from the National Council on Teachers of English (NCTE). It can be found online at http://www1.ncte.org/store/books/130986.htm

]]> Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:03:19 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31407.htm Students support Haiti with fundraisers at local restaurants http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31406.htm facebook.com/pennstateberks).

Another fundraiser will be held at Moe's Southwest Grill of Wyomissing on Thursday, February 25, 2010 from 5 to 9 p.m. Moe's has agreed to donate 10% of their earnings, but only for those who mention the student group. This fundraiser was originally scheduled for February 11, but was postponed due to inclement weather.

The class, which is part of the Communication Arts and Sciences' baccalaureate degree program, organized its first fundraiser at On the Border on February 2.

In addition, the student group is planning several other fundraising activities, including selling Help Haiti apparel and holding events such as a Haiti Awareness Week, and a faculty vs. student sports challenge.

The students are working to determine the most effective charities to support. We Are ... Helping Haiti @ Berks will choose the charity that sends the highest percentage of each dollar directly to Haiti and does not have a specific connection to any religious group or political affiliation.
]]> Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:34 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31406.htm College holds Career Fair for students http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31405.htm Thu, 18 Feb 2010 07:57:01 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31405.htm Health fair encourages students to be proactive http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31404.htm
"Visitors are encouraged to browse the events, some of which are interactive, to learn the available resources in our community," explained Penn State Berks Nurse Supervisor Alice Holland. "It is a nice way to get rid of that cabin fever, see firsthand how healthy habits influence a more healthy lifestyle, and plan a spring filled with fun and activity."

The event will feature exhibitors from hospitals and organizations discussing topics such as fitness, nutrition, blood pressure, drugs and alcohol, sexually transmitted diseases, mental health, addiction treatment, and much more.

First-year seminar credit will be available for student attendees. For more information on the event, contact Health Services at 610-396-6075.
]]> Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:01:10 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31404.htm Students Support THON http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31403.htm
THON, short for the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, is a year-long effort to raise funds and awareness for the fight against pediatric cancer. THON's fundraising helps offset the cost of a child's cancer treatment and helps establish research endowments aimed at increasing the cure rates of pediatric cancer treatments.

Putting on their dancing shoes from Penn State Berks are juniors Michele Pischl, Health and Human Development and Alicia Gilham, Elementary and Kindergarten Education; sophomore Michelle Willemin, Communications Arts and Sciences, and first-year student Dylan Miller, Letters Arts and Sciences, who will spend their weekend on the dance floor as other Penn State Berks students cheer for them.

"My motivation for being involved with THON is that I have lost family members to cancer," explains Allwein who is the Berks THON Overall Funds Chairperson. "Hearing the stories of our THON children and getting to know the families personally inspired me to want to be a dancer this year. Participating in THON at University Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I consider myself lucky to have been chosen as a dancer."

THON activities began at Berks campus in August 2009. Over the next four months leading up to the THON main event, the campus THON committee conducted a 5K Walk/Run, Breakfast with Santa, and a silent auction, as well as canning drives throughout the community.

Anyone who is interested in contributing to THON can call the Penn State Berks Campus Life Office at 610-396-6076 or visit http://www.thon.org/ and at the drop-down window "Please give the following organization credit for my gift" select "Berks."
]]> Thu, 18 Feb 2010 07:59:14 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31403.htm "Get Some" explores human sexuality and health http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31402.htm
"Get Some" is a joint venture of Penn State Berks Health Services and Penn State Berks WPSB-TV. Alice Holland, Penn State Berks Nurse Supervisor, is the host, and the show includes an interactive audience that features both college students and professionals as guests.

"The culmination of my past employment experiences at Blue Mountain Health System Family Planning Clinic, Lehighton Area School District, and Lehigh Valley Hospital, along with my present employment at Penn State, has prepared me with the assessment, interpersonal, and communication skills needed to host the show," explained Holland about her credentials.

In addition to her position as Health Services Supervisor at Penn State Berks, Holland also teaches courses in human sexuality. She is presently a Human Sexuality Doctoral Candidate and member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), American College Health Association (ACHA) and American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

For more information, contact Alice Holland at arh16@psu.edu or Penn State Berks WPSB TV at http://berkstv@psu.edu.

]]> Thu, 18 Feb 2010 07:58:14 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31402.htm Lecture explores The Science of Love http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31395.htm
In high school, Quirk said that was known for four things: getting detention, getting A's in biology, and having a name like "Quirk." He became a biologist and decided to combine these four talents in his second book, It's Not You. It's Biology, which provides insight, ammunition, snappy comebacks, and interesting banter for everyone who wonders why we behave the way we do.

Quirk is currently launching a campaign to get the science of relationships out of the science aisle and into the relationships aisle of the bookstore. He jokes that he lectures about the biology of relationships to anyone who can't give him detention. He has recently published another book, Tools Are for Men, Talk Is for Women: Why Your Partner's Brain Is Weird.

This presentation is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.
]]> Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:19:44 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31395.htm Berks celebrates history through National Engineers Week http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31394.htm
Feb. 17, 8:30 a.m, Goggle Works in Reading, Project Lead the Way Design Challenge.
Students from twenty high schools will form teams to design, build, test, and demonstrate a solution to the design challenge: building a functioning solar-panel vehicle in just a few hours, with a motor, wheels, axles, balsa wood, Styrofoam, various office supplies, and a solar cell.The projects will be administered by Penn State Berks engineering faculty and students. The challenge will be followed by an awards ceremony 1:30 p.m.

"This event gives PLTW students the chance to use the skills they have learned in their foundation courses to solve a real-life problem. Many schools concentrate on athletic competition; the PLTW Design Challenge gives academic students a chance for inter-scholastic competition," says Tom Weiss, affiliate director of Project Lead the Way at Penn State Berks.

Project Lead The Way is a national non-profit organization that works in partnership with public middle and high schools to implement a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on experiences in engineering, design, and technology. PTLW aims to attract an increasingly more diverse group of students to become the next generation of scientists, technology experts, engineers, and mathematicians and help America compete favorably in the global economy. For more information, please contact: Tom Weiss, Affiliate Director - Project Lead The Way, at tsw10@psu.edu.
 
Feb. 18, 12 noon-2:00 p.m., Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room, National Engineers Week Luncheon for industry professionals, students, faculty, and staff. The luncheon will feature presentations by Khanjan Mehta, senior research associate at Penn State's College of Engineering; Rachel Dzombak, junior, Bioengineering major; and Bharath Ramaswamy, graduate student, Electrical Engineering. These three panelists will discuss social entrepreneurship and integrated engineering design. They will detail how students and faculty from various colleges across Penn State are collaborating on humanitarian engineering and social entrepreneurial ventures.

These ventures range from developments in technology-based solutions to the most compelling challenges facing the developing world and marginalized populations.

There will also be a discussion of ongoing technology ventures at Penn State that practice integrated engineering design and the eplum model of student engagement. The eplum model weaves strategic educational priorities including innovation, global awareness and engagement, multidisciplinary teamwork, and social entrepreneurship education into a number of courses and programs in the College of Engineering, as well as other colleges within the University.

This event is open to the public, and the cost is $10 cash or check payable at the door. Attendees must RSVP by contacting Jeffrey Wike at jww12@psu.edu or 610-396-6202 by Monday, February 15, 2010.
]]> Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:16:42 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31394.htm College presents "Mr. Trombone" Harold Betters http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31393.htm
Betters, a Pennsylvania native, has a jazz career that spans over four decades and twelve albums. He had played and toured with acts such as Al Hirt, Slide Hampton, Ramsey Louis, Urbie Green, and Ray Charles. Louis Arm Strong once described his sound as "rich and honest."

This presentation is part of the college's Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.
]]> Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:17:56 EST http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31393.htm PS(i love)U Sales to benefit Haiti http://www.bk.psu.edu//Information/News/Archive/31392.htm
The group will be selling greeting card bundles designed by students and Mary Kay gift sets for men and women, which range in price from $11 to $54 and are gift wrapped. All net proceeds will be donated to Haiti. Table displays will be set up in various buildings on campus until February 15, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The group's first fundraising effort, "canning" on campus Thursday, January 21 and Friday, January 22, was a tremendous success, raising more than $2000.00 for relief efforts. The group, in conjunction with the college's Intercultural Communication: Theory and Research class, held its first fundraising event at On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina on Tuesday, February 2. On The Border agreed to donate 10% of the day's earnings to the group (when customers mentioned the fundraiser).

In addition, the student group is planning several other fundraising activities, including selling Help Haiti apparel and holding events such as a Haiti Awareness Week, a spades tournament, and a faculty vs. student sports challenge.

The students are working to determine the most effective charities to support. We Are... Helping Haiti @ Berks will choose the charity that sends the highest percentage of each dollar directly to Haiti and does not have a specific connection to any religious group or political affiliation.

Led by Brittany Chiles, a Business major with a minor in Global Studies, the group is working with Penn State University Park in establishing a unified program throughout the Penn State system for aiding the victims of the Haiti earthquake.

"I have a few very dear friends whose families are possibly suffering from the catastrophic earthquake events in Haiti," states Chiles. "This vicarious experience of tragedy, unrest, and urgency has moved me to create a community effort to help Haiti."
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