Campus Currents

Framingham State University is excited to present Arts & Ideas 2018-19: a year-long series of engaging speakers, performances, exhibitions and films, organized as both stand-alone events and a themed series: “Moon Landing in Context”

The series represents a collaboration between Dr. Irene Porro, director of the McAuliffe Center for Integrated Science Learning, and Arts & Ideas. The series aims to contextualize the moon landing within the historical, social and cultural framework of the Sixties, specifically the period from 1962, with President Kennedy’s speech at Rice University, to 1972, the year of the last Apollo Mission. Kennedy’s famous invocation, “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard,” continues to challenge us, as a nation and as a globe, to garner the political will to solve big problems. That being the case, the idealism generated by the moon landing might lead us to underestimate the ways in which this major human accomplishment was co-opted by Cold War politics and other complex forces.

The series kicks off on September 27th with "The Moon Together: A Lost Opportunity" at 7 p.m. in the McCarthy Center Forum.

Frank White, author of Overview Effect, will discuss the little-known fact that President John Kennedy wanted Apollo to be a multi-national mission, not a “space race.” Think of the impact on history if the astronauts on Apollo 11 had been Russian and American. That was President Kennedy’s dream, cut short by his untimely death.

Additional Upcoming Arts & Ideas Events:

Sunset Salsa at FSU
September 21, 2018 at 7:30 p.m.
Crocker Grove (rain location Dwight Performing Arts Center)
Register for Free at Eventbrite: https://fsu_sunsetsalsa.eventbrite.com

Grammy Award winning timbalero, Eguie Castrillo and his 11-piece salsa band promise an electrifying outdoor performance that has entertained audiences from around the globe: in Europe, Asia, South America, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the U.S.A. Don’t miss your chance to listen to this world-renowned percussionist first hand.

A Sound Mind in a Sound Body: Diet and Brain Health
September 24, 2018 at 1:30 p.m.
Forum, McCarthy Center

Join the inaugural FSU Cooks event with alumna Sangeeta Pradhan, RD, who will present the latest research connecting a healthy diet and cognitive function. Learn about specific foods to help improve memory and encourage brain health as you age. Then register for an FSU Cooks Culinary Nutrition Workshop, to learn how to prepare these ‘brainy’ foods: fsucooks@framingham.edu

FSU Cooks: Culinary Nutrition Workshops

-It’s Raining Grains! October 5, 2018 from 6 to 9 p.m.
-Greens with Envy! October 26, 2019 from 6 to 9 p.m.
-Nothing Fishy about Fish! November 9, 2018 from 6 to 9 p.m.
-Spice Up Your Cooking! December 7, 2018 from 6 to 9 p.m.
Cost per person per workshop is $35.

Join us on the 17th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks as we hold a video chat with Helaina Hovitz, author of After 9/11: One Girl’s Journey Through Darkness to a New Beginning.

Tuesday, September 11, 7 p.m.
McCarthy Center, Alumni Room

This event will be streamed live on Facebook.

Hovitz was 12-years-old and in middle school three blocks from the World Trade Center on September 11th, 2001. Her memoir encapsulates the journey of a girl growing up with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after living through the events of 9/11 firsthand, chronicling its effects on her at the outset of adolescence and following her as she spirals into
addiction and rebellion, through loss, chaos, and confusion. During this talk, Hovitz
will discuss how she overcame this trauma and forged a new beginning.

This event is sponsored by the Office of Enrollment and Student Development. For more information, please contact Alex Thibeault at athibeault1@framingham.edu.

Join us for the following event as part of Constitution Week:

A Panel Discussion About the First Amendment and Journalism
Wednesday, Sept. 19, 7 p.m., McCarthy Center Forum

The New England First Amendment Coalition (nefac.org) is a broad-based organization whose programs advance the understanding of the First Amendment, freedom of speech and freedom of the press. FSU will host their Featured Speaker Program.

Panelists include:

Jonathan Albano, Deputy Managing Partner of Bingham McCutchen’s Boston Office
Jennifer Peter, Senior Editor for The Boston Globe
Prof. John Ambacher, Professor Emeritus, Political Science Department
Moderator: Anne Brennan, a long-time journalist and executive editor of the MetroWestDaily News

Please join us for the grand opening of the Framingham State University Rams Resource Center (RRC) on Monday, September 24 from 11:30 a.m. to noon at West Hall room 106. In order to support an environment of inclusive excellence and care for our community at Framingham State University, the Rams Resource Center provides non-perishable food items, toiletries, and resource referral for current FSU students, faculty, and staff. This effort will provide critical nutrition and hygiene resources to ensure that all members of our community are able to thrive by supporting FSU’s commitment to promote equity, pursue social justice, and make excellence inclusive.

Donations of non-perishable foods, toiletries and school supplies will be gratefully accepted during the Open House. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour the RRC during this time.

Explore leadership through adventure and travel - join Framingham State's first Lead Forward program, with a trek to Mt. Everest Base Camp.  Participants will complete four workshops during the spring 2019, with the culminating (and beautiful) lifetime adventure through Nepal's Himalayas. 

Anticipated travel: May 20-June 6, 2019. Price contingent upon number of travelers, estimated $3800. 

For requirements and pricing details contact Rachel Lucking, Assistant Dean for Campus Engagement, rlucking@framingham.edu.

Kick-Off Event: Manège à Trois
September 24, 2018 at 4:30 p.m.
Forum, McCarthy Center

A French-American Affair: The sounds of Parisian streets mingle with New Orleans swing. Expect surprises like American jazz standards sung in French, blues-infused pop chanson, swinging waltzes… The sparkling musical cocktail is served by Susan Laurence on accordion, Mark Chenevert on clarinet, Bertrand Laurence on guitar and voice.

Monday, September 17, 2018, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Athletic Center Gym

Learn about the different ways to connect on and off-campus at the upgraded and revamped Involvement Fair!

The LGBTQ+ Employee Affinity Group (EAG) has scheduled our Fall 2018 meet and greet on Wednesday, September 12th, 1:30-2:30 p.m. in the Moynihan Conference Room (Athletic Center, room 112).  Light refreshments will be available.

An affinity group is a group of faculty and staff linked by a common purpose, ideology, or interest.  Affinity Groups play a vital role in ensuring an inclusive environment where all are valued, included, and empowered to succeed. They can provide a collective voice for faculty and staff with common interests, and are affiliated with and receive funding support from the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement (DICE).

If you are unable to make it to the meet and greet but would like to stay informed about the LGBTQ+ EAG, please contact the co-chairs, Kim Dexter kdexter@framingham.edu and Nicole Rossi nrossi@framingham.edu.

September 21, 2018, 5:30pm & 6:30pm
Undiscovered Worlds
Register at: http://christa.org/FSUplanetarium/

Humans have long imagined alien worlds beyond our solar system. However, in recent years, science fiction has become science fact. Join us for a presentation of Undiscovered Worlds, a fulldome film produced by the Charles Hayden Planetarium at Boston’s Museum of Science. Undiscovered Worlds reveals the ingenious methods used by astronomers to identify planets orbiting stars beyond the Sun, culminating in the historic Kepler mission, which has detected thousands of these “exoplanets” over the last few years. After the film, planetarium educator Mary MacDonald will bring you the latest news about Kepler’s successor: the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). TESS, launched in April 2018, is sure to reveal thousands of additional worlds, further changing the way we view our place among the stars.

Join us for the CELTSS Fall Lyceum Lecture featuring Dr. Ira Silver:

Hidden Stories Behind Social Problems
Monday, Oct. 1, Alumni Room, 5 to 7 p.m.

Mass shootings. Gender violence. Police brutality. Cyberbullying. Drug Abuse. These and other social problems are familiar and personally relevant to many in the FSU community. This talk draws on recent examples in highlighting fascinating new ways to understand such significant and timely issues.

October 17, 2018, 1 to 3 p.m.
O'Connor Hall 120

The Employees of Color Affinity Group is a group which serves as a resource and community to FSU and its employees of color. The group promotes and celebrates cultural diversity through programming as a way to foster an environment where employees of color will feel welcome at FSU. The first meeting will focus on welcoming (and welcoming back) attendees, and discussing ideas for future activities and events. Lunch will be provided.

The Biology 112 class, Biology of Marine Organisms, will take a field trip to Duxbury, MA, on Tuesday, September 18, 2018. The students will depart campus at 11:30 am and return at 5:30 pm.

Engagement Day: Career, Community, Connection Fair
Monday, September 17, 2018, 12:30 p.m.— 2:30 p.m., Athletic Center

Great opportunity to find an on or off-campus job with one of our many local retailers, restaurants or non-profits, or on campus! This event is also a fantastic opportunity to learn more about clubs, community service, and getting involved both on and off campus. Representatives from 100 local businesses will be looking for YOU!

Suitable Solutions Career Professionalism Program Kick Off Event
Wednesday, September 26, 2018, 1:30 p.m.— 2:30 p.m., MC Forum

Multi-part professional career development series designed to prepare students for the internship & job search and the interview process. This initiative will benefit ALL students for all majors. Learn the professional skills that employers want—Program Overview.

Career Advice Roundtables (CARS) Networking Event
Wednesday, September 26, 2018, 3:30 p.m.— 5:00 p.m., MC Forum

A dialog between professionals (including many FSU alumni) and students seeking real answers to their career related questions. Each employer will moderate one table as students rotate tables seeking advice from expert  professionals.

Avidia Bank Polished Professional Networking Event and Site Tour
Tuesday, October 2, 2018, 12:45PM—2:00PM, Avidia Bank, Framingham

All majors welcome. Pre-registration required. Transportation available. Call the CSER office at 508-626-4625 for details and to register.

Careers, Technology and You
Friday, October 12, 2018, 9:30 a.m.—11:30 a.m. , DPAC

Panel of industry professionals share what is happening in their fields.

Career Connections
Wednesday, October 17, 2018, 2:30 p.m.—4:00 p.m., HH 312

Computer science networking event with elevator pitch and resume reviews.

The 13th Annual Major/Minor Fair
Tuesday, October 23, 2018, 11:30 a.m.— 1:30 p.m., MC Forum

Having difficulty choosing a major or a minor? Learn more about which careers would correlate to your choice. Visit academic tables, Career Services, and International Education (Study Abroad). Ask questions about classes and skills needed for the major/minor you are considering, and how internships play a role.

Human Services Fair
Tuesday, October 23, 2018, 6:00 p.m.— 7:30 p.m., MC Forum

Explore internship and full-time opportunities available in human services and non-profits.  Dress professionally, bring your resume, and network with up to 30 employers.

On Campus Interviews TBA,  11/26-11/30, MC 514 Interview Room

Diverse employers come to campus to interview and recruit for job openings.

Networking & Suitable Solutions Mocktail Mixer Graduation Event
Thursday, December 6, 2018, 5:00 p.m.—7:00 p.m., MC Forum

Network with employer partners while learning about proper networking techniques and etiquette while enjoying food and “mock” tails! Pre-registration is required.  Contact the CSER office at 508-626-4625.

Wednesday Employer Showcase Series, McCarthy Campus Center Lobby, 9:00AM – 6:00PM:

Employers showcase their organization every Wednesday in the McCarthy Center lobby by the welcome desk. Their goal is to network with FSU students and recruit students for full-time or internship opportunities. (Featuring up to six different employers weekly).

9/12/18

9:00AM—Noon: Little Flippers & Pet Supplies Plus
Noon—3:00 PM: American Girl & RCS Learning Center
3:00 PM—6:00 PM: Verve Crowne Plaza & Walker Cares

9/19/18

9:00AM—Noon: Citizens Bank & Care.com
Noon—3:00 PM: Mini Miracles & KBW Financial Staffing
3:00 PM—6:00 PM: Jos. A Banks

9/26/18

Noon—3:00 PM: Amazing Things Art center & All Care Plus Pharmacy

10/3/18

9:00 AM—Noon: Travelers Insurance
Noon—2:45 PM: US Marine Corps Officer Programs & The Key Program

10/10/18

9:00 AM—Noon: Yardi
Noon—2:45 PM: Wayside Youth & Family Support Network & Jack’s Abby

10/17/18

9:00 AM—Noon: Mass State Police
Noon—3:00 PM: Kaleidoscope Family Solutions & Care.com

10/24/18

Noon—3:00 PM: Scribe America & First Help Financial, LLC.

-Professor Sam Witt’s poem, “The First Law of Entanglement: From the Swimming Pool Where You Drowned, to an Underworld Hospital, to Your .357 Magnum Sinking Down Forever to the Harbor Bed,” was published on the Poem-a-Day website on June 6, 2018.   Poem-a-Day is a “daily digital poetry series featuring over 200 new, previously unpublished poems by today’s talented poets each year,” according to the website of poets.org.  Each day’s poem is distributed electronically to over 350,000 readers.

Here is a link to Professor Witt's poem—now archived on the Academy of American Poets’ website:  https://m.poets.org/poetsorg/poet/sam-witt

-Dr. Alexander Hartwiger’s ultimate frisbee team, Boneyard, won the World Masters Ultimate Club Championship, held in Winnipeg, Canada between July 29 and August 4.  Boneyard competed against 20 other teams from around the world! 

-This past July, Art Professor Emeritus John Anderson exhibited two sculptures in an exhibition entitled “Breath and Matter” at the Boston Sculptors Gallery. The gallery invited poets to partner with artists creating collaborative works that synthesized both of their voices. Embracing materials as varied as silk, steel, bronze, rawhide, granite, wood, wax, glass, light and sound, the sculptors interpret in form what the poets have alluded to in words. The result of this yearlong relationship resulted in an unexpected cross-pollination that engaged the common ground of these two distinct forms of artistic expression. Readings by many of the poets took place at the gallery. The range of styles encompassed hip-hop, free verse, rhymed couplets and ekphrastic poetry. Among the distinguished participating poets were Robert Pinsky, former US Poet Laureate and founder of the Favorite Poem Project, Mary Bonina of the Writers Room of Boston, and Anaïs Duplan, Founder of the Center for Afrofuturist Studies.

-Dr. Kelly Matthews, associate professor of English at Framingham State University, represented the University's chapter of The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi—the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines—at the Society’s 45th Biennial Convention held August 2-4 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Matthews currently serves as president of the Framingham State University chapter and attended the convention as the chapter’s voting delegate. One highlights of the convention included the presentation of the Society’s $100,000 Excellence in Innovation Award to Western Michigan University. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Linda Vaden-Goad served as one of the judges for the award.

-A sculptural vessel by Dr. Derrick Te Paske from the Communication Arts Department was juried as one of three "best in show" pieces at this year's MEMBERS BIENNIAL of the Fuller Craft Museum (Brockton), April to October. As a result, he has been invited to speak at the Museum's Members Create: Celebrate! event on September 15.