Robert W. Fuller ’56, 10th President of 91ֱ�� College, Dies at 88</h1> <article> <h1>Robert W. Fuller ’56, 10th President of 91ֱ�� College, Dies at 88</h1> <p>azaleski — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 14:29:25 +0000</p> <span>Robert W. Fuller ’56, 10th President of 91ֱ�� College, Dies at 88</span> <span><span>azaleski</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-07-29T10:29:25-04:00" title="Tuesday, July 29, 2025 - 10:29">Tue, 07/29/2025 - 10:29</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p dir="ltr">Robert “Bob” Works Fuller ’56, the 10th president of 91ֱ�� College, died July 15, 2025, in Berkeley, California. He was 88. </p><p dir="ltr">Fuller first arrived at 91ֱ��—at age 15—on a Ford fellowship. He was likewise just 33 years old when he was appointed 91ֱ��’s president in 1970 via unanimous selection, making him the college’s youngest president. </p><p dir="ltr">When Fuller returned to campus in the role of chief administrator, he described what it was like to rediscover 91ֱ�� after 15 years away in an essay published in the December 1970 <em>91ֱ�� Alumni Magazine</em>:</p><p dir="ltr">“The commitment to academic and artistic excellence in itself is really a dual goal that no other institution has. Simultaneously with this commitment to intellectual excellence, there is the compassionate concern for mankind that permeates everything that occurs here. Many schools have one of these goals, and many have the other, but no school I know has both and recognizes so explicitly the interdependence of these two goals.”</p><p dir="ltr">During his tenure, Fuller worked diligently on initiatives in the spirit of his remarks, many of which transformed 91ֱ��’s campus and curriculum.</p><figure role="group" class="image_resized align-left"> <div class="media-embed-resized" style="width:419px;"> </div> <figcaption>Tommie Smith and Robert W. Fuller, pictured in California many years after their respective tenures at 91ֱ��. Photo courtesy of Robert W. Fuller's family.</figcaption> </figure> <p>He tripled the enrollment of minority students, expanded coed residence halls, and hired Black head coaches, including the Olympic gold medal sprinter Tommie Smith. Fuller also supported construction of the Seeley G. Mudd Learning Center, which remains a cornerstone of campus today, as well as students’ feminist and gay liberation movements. In 1971, Fuller created the Committee on the Status of Women, on which his then-wife Ann L. Fuller was a member; the committee's research and work eventually led to the hiring of more women on the faculty and in administrative positions. Under Robert Fuller’s leadership, 91ֱ�� also eliminated distribution requirements and incorporated student representation into the institution’s decision-making structure. </p><p dir="ltr">Fuller promoted the development of the modern dance program and the hiring of the first professional string quartet in the conservatory. He also established an Education Commission, through which several programs were created, including the innovative and beloved Inter-Arts Program, which fostered opportunities for interdisciplinary campus collaboration across multiple art forms. And as chairman of the Honorary Degrees Committee, Fuller recommended that trustees establish the Distinguished Community Service Award, which is now awarded annually to 91ֱ��-area residents who have made significant contributions to the community. (Ann L. Fuller received this award in 1991.)</p><p dir="ltr">“President Fuller’s contributions to the college met the moment, particularly how he created academic programs that responded to student interest,” says 91ֱ�� President Carmen Twillie Ambar. “Among his many achievements, he created a Master of Fine Arts degree, which today can be seen as a precursor to our new BA/BFA program. My condolences to his friends and family.”</p><p dir="ltr">Born in Summit, New Jersey, Fuller earned an honorary bachelor’s degree from 91ֱ�� at his 1970 presidential inauguration ceremony. He later earned a doctorate in physics at Princeton University. With the theoretical physicist John Wheeler, he coauthored a foundational paper on wormholes, “Causality and Multiply Connected Space-Time.” The paper’s emphasis on quantum topology inspires quantum gravity researchers today. </p><p dir="ltr">Fuller also taught physics and mathematics at Columbia University, as well as at Barnard and Wesleyan, and he coauthored the book <em>Mathematics of Classical and Quantum Physics</em>, which is still in print. After leaving 91ֱ�� in 1974, he traversed the globe, devoting himself to causes he believed in, like arms control and world hunger. Later, he wrote several influential books based on the concept of “Dignity for All,” which he pioneered based on his travels and career experience.</p><p dir="ltr">Fuller returned to 91ֱ�� several times, including by participating in reunion activities at the invitation of the Class of 1974. “We invited him to our 25th reunion, where he gave a packed auditorium of classmates, seniors, and others a speech on rankism,” says Jan Heininger ’74. “We invited him to join us for our 50th reunion in 2024 as an honorary member of the class and participant in our extensive weekend of activities, as well as a separate session with him on what makes 91ֱ�� unique. We mourn his passing.”</p><p dir="ltr">Fuller leaves his beloved wife of 35 years, Claire Sheridan; children Karen, Ben, Noah, and Adam Fuller ’00; first wife Ann L. Fuller; and four grandchildren. For more information on his life and work, visit <a href="http://www.robertworksfuller.com/"><u>www.RobertWorksFuller.com</u></a> and his <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/25/books/robert-w-fuller-dead.html?unlocked_article_code=1.aE8.aLm-.VcdqvUtSQMTZ&smid=url-share"><em>New York Times </em>obituary</a>.</p><figure role="group" class="align-center"> <div> </div> <figcaption>Robert W. Fuller, wearing No. 21 in the back row, was on 91ֱ��'s basketball team in the 1950s. Photo courtesy of Robert W. Fuller's family.</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Physicist and author presided over the institution between 1970 and 1974.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-07-29T12:00:00Z">Tue, 07/29/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Office of Communications</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2412">Obituaries</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">After leaving 91ֱ��, Robert W. Fuller became a celebrated author.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pull-images field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yes</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Courtesy of the 91ֱ�� College Archives</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-flex-content field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden vertical-spacing--basic field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <div id="obj-42545" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-copy paragraph--view-mode--default o-flex--basic-copy basic-copy"> <style> figure.align-center { display: table; } figure.align-center figure { width: 100%; } </style> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Larry Shinn, Former Danforth Professor of Religion, Dies at 83</h1> <p>eburnett — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 19:05:35 +0000</p> <span>Larry Shinn, Former Danforth Professor of Religion, Dies at 83</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-07-22T15:05:35-04:00" title="Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - 15:05">Tue, 07/22/2025 - 15:05</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p dir="ltr">Larry Shinn, who taught religion at 91ֱ�� for 14 years, died April 2, 2025. He was 83. </p><p dir="ltr">During a tenure that started in 1970, Shinn held multiple positions before being named the Danforth Professor of Religion in 1982. He taught courses on the study of religion (Religion as a World Phenomenon), on the religions of India (Hindu and Buddhist Traditions in India and The Life and Teachings of Gandhi), and on methodology (Psychology and Religion as well as Approaches to the Study of Religion). </p><p dir="ltr">After arriving in 91ֱ��, Shinn was also ordained as an elder in the East Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church. Throughout his tenure at the college, he promoted the world relief work of the Methodist Church (UMCOR) by holding seminars and giving talks and sermons on world hunger in area churches. He also served as an interim pastor for several local congregations. </p><p dir="ltr">During his last two years at 91ֱ��, Shinn traveled throughout the United States, visiting more than a dozen Hare Krishna temples, engaging in participant study and interviewing Hare Krishna devotees. </p><p dir="ltr">“Larry Shinn was an immensely popular teacher on campus,” says Fairchild Professor Emeritus of Religion and East Asian Studies James Dobbins. “At a time when the study of religion at 91ֱ�� tended to focus on philosophy, history, and ethics, he sought to present it through the lens of anthropology and psychology—emphasizing what people actually feel and say and do in their religious life.”</p><p dir="ltr">After leaving 91ֱ��, Shinn served as a professor of religion and dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Bucknell University. In 1994, he became the eighth president of Berea College, a position he held until his retirement in 2012. Born in Alliance, Ohio, he earned a bachelor’s degree at Baldwin-Wallace College, a bachelor of divinity at Drew Theological School, and a doctorate at Princeton University.</p><p dir="ltr">To read more about Shinn and leave a remembrance, <a href="https://murial.life/larryshinn">visit his memorial page</a>.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Popular faculty member taught at 91ֱ�� from 1970 to 1984.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-07-22T12:00:00Z">Tue, 07/22/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2412">Obituaries</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25421">Religion</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/religion" hreflang="und">Religion</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">courtesy 91ֱ�� College Archives</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Marcia Colish, Frederick B. Artz Emerita Professor of History, Dies at 86</h1> <p>eburnett — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 16:05:52 +0000</p> <span>Marcia Colish, Frederick B. Artz Emerita Professor of History, Dies at 86</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-04-18T12:05:52-04:00" title="Thursday, April 18, 2024 - 12:05">Thu, 04/18/2024 - 12:05</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Marcia Colish, a professor of history at 91ֱ�� from 1963 to 2001—including 17 years as the Frederick B. Artz Professor of History—died April 9 in New Haven, Connecticut. She was 86.</p> <p>Born in Brooklyn, New York, Colish graduated from Smith College in 1958 and earned a PhD from Yale University in 1965, two years after she began teaching at 91ֱ��. She became an internationally recognized voice in Medieval European intellectual history and the author of nine books, including two-volume studies of the Stoic Tradition and of Italian theologian Peter Lombard, and <em>Medieval Foundations of the Western Intellectual Tradition</em> (1997), which synthesizes her teaching and research.</p> <p>In the 1960s, Colish led the campaign to abolish 91ֱ��’s nepotism rule, which prevented both members of a couple from serving on the faculty. In the early 1990s, she was a leading voice in the campaign to reform an antiquated sexual harassment policy.</p> <p>“In all my years in academia, I have never met a more formidable intellect or a more supportive colleague,” says <a href="/node/5936">Leonard V. Smith</a>, Colish’s successor as Frederick B. Artz Professor of History.</p> <p>“All of us have lost a friend, colleague, and scholar of rare accomplishments,” adds Grover Zinn, Danforth Emeritus Professor of Religion.</p> <p>Colish donated her body to the Yale University Medical School. Friends and family are planning a memorial mass at St. George’s Catholic Church in Guilford, Connecticut, and a shiva in New York City.</p> <p>Read more about Colish and share remembrances at <a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/nytimes/name/marcia-colish-obituary?id=54926822">legacy.com</a>.</p> <hr> <p><em>Special thanks to Leonard V. Smith for his extensive contributions to this story.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Renowned scholar and teacher also made lasting contributions to campus culture over a career spanning 38 years.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-04-18T12:00:00Z">Thu, 04/18/2024 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2412">Obituaries</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/history" hreflang="und">History</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">courtesy of 91ֱ�� College Archives</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Tom Sherman, Emeritus Professor of Biology, Dies at 89</h1> <p>eburnett — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 17:07:57 +0000</p> <span>Tom Sherman, Emeritus Professor of Biology, Dies at 89</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-04-15T13:07:57-04:00" title="Monday, April 15, 2024 - 13:07">Mon, 04/15/2024 - 13:07</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Tom Sherman, a 1956 91ֱ�� graduate who returned to his alma mater to teach biology for 30 years, died April 9. He was 89.</p> <p>A Rhodes Scholar, Sherman earned a DPhil from Oxford University in 1960 and began teaching at 91ֱ�� six years later. He authored two books: <em>A Place on the Glacial Till: Time, Land, and Nature Within an American Town</em>, an affectionate chronicle of the natural history and life around his longtime home of 91ֱ��; and <em>Energy, Entropy, and the Flow of Nature</em>, an exploration of the principles of thermodynamics delivered in easy-to-follow language. Both books were published by Oxford University Press.</p> <p>“Tom brought careful preparation and considerable thought to his lectures,” says Dennis Luck, an emeritus professor of biology and 24-year colleague of Sherman’s who bonded with the elder professor over their shared studies in Oxford’s doctoral program in biochemistry.</p> <p>“He encouraged his students to forge cross-connections and to think independently. He stressed attention to accuracy and detail in written work. He will be remembered with affection by many 91ֱ�� students and faculty as an accomplished, considerate, and gentle scholar.”</p> <p>Sherman will be remembered in a private ceremony. Learn more in this obituary published by the <em><a href="https://chroniclet.com/news/387641/thomas-fairchild-sherman/">Chronicle-Telegram</a></em>.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">91ֱ�� graduate and longtime faculty member remembered for penning the ode to 91ֱ�� “A Place on the Glacial Till.”</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-04-15T12:00:00Z">Mon, 04/15/2024 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2412">Obituaries</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25251">Biology</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/biology" hreflang="und">Biology</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">courtesy of 91ֱ�� College Archives</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Hirschel Kasper, Longtime 91ֱ�� Economics Professor, Dies at 89</h1> <p>eburnett — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 17:46:29 +0000</p> <span>Hirschel Kasper, Longtime 91ֱ�� Economics Professor, Dies at 89</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-04-09T13:46:29-04:00" title="Tuesday, April 9, 2024 - 13:46">Tue, 04/09/2024 - 13:46</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Hirschel Kasper, an emeritus professor of economics who taught at 91ֱ�� for an incredible 54 years, died Thursday, April 4, at Kendal at 91ֱ��.</p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Kasper in 1963, the year he arrived in 91ֱ��. (photo courtesy of 91ֱ�� College Archives)</figcaption> </figure> <p>A native of Providence, Rhode Island, Kasper graduated from Boston University and earned an MA and PhD from the University of Minnesota. He taught at 91ֱ�� from 1963 to 2017 and wrote frequently on his specialties in labor economics, economic theory, and public policy. He is said to have taught more than 4,000 91ֱ�� students in his introductory course alone.</p> <p>“One of my earliest memories of Hirsch was when I was interviewing for my position at 91ֱ�� in 2010,” recalls <a href="/ron-cheung">Ron Cheung</a>, professor of economics and chair of the department. “His welcoming, open personality was immediately obvious and helped to put a nervous candidate at ease. Over the seven years that I overlapped with Hirsch on the faculty, I had noticed how supportive he was of his junior colleagues. In challenging moments, he always had a word of encouragement that was honed by years of experience.</p> <p>“Conversely, in happy moments—like an honors student presenting their thesis, or a colleague getting a publication accepted—he was always there to celebrate with a smile and a wry comment. He was a stabilizing force in our department, and it is hard to think of anyone else taking that role for us.”</p> <p>A gathering in memory of Kasper will take place at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 11, at 91ֱ��’s Westwood Cemetery. It will be followed at 11 by a celebration at Kendal.</p> <p>Learn more about the life and career of Kasper and share remembrances <a href="https://www.cowlingfuneralhomeoh.com/obituary/HirschelKasper-HirschelKasper">here</a>.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">His remarkable teaching career spanned from 1963 to 2017 and numbered thousands of students.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-04-09T12:00:00Z">Tue, 04/09/2024 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2412">Obituaries</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25341">Economics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-faculty field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/ron-cheung" hreflang="und">Ron Cheung</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Hirschel Kasper in 1996.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">courtesy of 91ֱ�� College Archives</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Who is C.J. Blair?</h1> <p>ygay — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 20:17:55 +0000</p> <span>Who is C.J. Blair?</span> <span><span>ygay</span></span> <span><time datetime="2022-03-25T16:17:55-04:00" title="Friday, March 25, 2022 - 16:17">Fri, 03/25/2022 - 16:17</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p> </p> <hr> <p><strong>Full Name:</strong> <a href="/cj-blair" target="_blank">Craig Joaquin Blair Jr.</a> </p> <p><strong>Department and location on campus:</strong> The <a href="/admissions-and-aid/arts-and-sciences" target="_blank">College of Arts and Sciences Admissions</a> in the Hotel at 91ֱ��</p> <p><strong>Job title:</strong> Admissions Counselor</p> <p><strong>What does your job entail?</strong> Visiting high schools, reading applications, and convincing students to come to 91ֱ�� College.</p> <p><strong>How long have you been at 91ֱ��?</strong> Nine months this time around.</p> <p><strong>Why did you decide to join the Office of Admissions?</strong> I owe so much to 91ֱ��. It opened so many doors for me and helped me come into my own. This job gives me the opportunity to pay it forward while I figure out where to go next.</p> <p><strong>What do you enjoy most about your work?</strong> Interviewing prospective students. Virtual interviews allow me to speak with students from around the world, and I’m routinely floored by their stories and intelligence. Some of my interviewees have already committed to 91ֱ��, so I know we’re in good hands.</p> <p><strong>As a recent graduate, how do you find yourself relating to prospective Obies?</strong> I think we’re at oddly similar points in our lives. They’re transitioning into college, and I’m slowly transitioning out of it. I remember feeling both nervous and excited about the future at their age, so I always make sure to tell them how much they have to look forward to.</p> <p><strong>What questions do you find prospective students ask the most?</strong> Prospies often ask what a typical day at 91ֱ�� is like. I respond by describing my Fridays as a student, when I would play frisbee in the afternoon, then eat my bodyweight in co-op pizza, go to five hours of concerts, and swing dance until 1 a.m. </p> <p><strong>Are you still connected with the student community on campus?</strong> Yes! I’m seeing more live music than ever, and I sometimes sit in on ToadsCo, the amphibian-themed ExCo I started as a student. </p> <p><strong>What do you encourage students to do when they arrive on campus as new Obies? </strong>Dabble away! Nobody cares what your major is, and now’s not the time to specialize. If a class or club sounds remotely interesting to you, just sign up for it. It’s entirely possible you haven’t discovered your favorite subject or hobby yet. </p> <p><strong>Any recent personal achievements you would like to tell us about?</strong> I wouldn’t call it an achievement yet, but I’m currently making a documentary short film about a chronic health issue I’ve been dealing with. Hopefully I’ll actually finish it. Email me if you wanna help!</p> <p><strong>Do you have any hidden talents?</strong> I can identify several species of frog by their calls. Boo-beep!</p> <p><strong>What’s your favorite childhood memory?</strong> My parents are veterinarians, and I vividly remember growing up in a house full of outpatients including possums, boa constrictors, ducklings, and fawns. </p> <p><strong>Best vacation ever?</strong> I was lucky enough to receive a <a href="/news/cj-blair-wins-2018-watson-fellowship" target="_blank">Watson Fellowship</a> after I graduated, which allowed me to spend one year living in Greenland, Wales, Puerto Rico, Nepal, and Japan. I still can’t believe it happened.</p> <p><strong>Hobbies?</strong> Taking long, <em>long</em> walks, watching obscure art house movies, eating adventurously, and trying to play the saxophone/piano/guitar.</p> <p><strong>Favorite food?</strong> Great sushi and great curry. Also narwhal (thank you, Greenland). </p> <p><strong>Favorite quote or personal philosophy?</strong> “How vain it is to sit down to write when you have not stood up to live,” by Henry David Thoreau.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2022-03-25T12:00:00Z">Fri, 03/25/2022 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yvonne Gay</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Ever wonder what species of frog is bellowing in your backyard on late summer nights? Invite C.J. Blair ’18 over. He has a talent for identifying several species of frog by their calls. He’s also responsible for ToadsCo, the amphibian-themed ExCo at 91ֱ�� College. Learn more about Blair—including why his favorite childhood memories involve possums, boa constrictors, and fawns—in this installment of Who Am I? </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2580">Experimental College (ExCo)</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">C.J. Blair '18, admissions counselor for the College of Arts and Sciences.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Courtesy of Blair</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Teaching in the New Normal: 18+ Ways of Looking at Mt. Fuji</h1> <p>hhempste — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 14:59:52 +0000</p> <span>Teaching in the New Normal: 18+ Ways of Looking at Mt. Fuji</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2020-04-28T10:59:52-04:00" title="Tuesday, April 28, 2020 - 10:59">Tue, 04/28/2020 - 10:59</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/lynn-powell">Lynn Powell</a>, director of <a href="/news/writers-schools-program-cutting-edge-poetry-instruction">91ֱ�� Writers in the Schools</a> (WITS) and visiting assistant professor in creative writing, describes how her class worked with the <a href="https://amam.oberlin.edu/">Allen Memorial Art Museum’s</a> Office of Academic Programs to remotely view Japanese woodblock prints as a companion activity to reading several poems. Powell shares that a surprising benefit of digital presentation of images is the ability to look at artwork much closer than during an in-person viewing. The resulting class discussion was so meaningful that the students wrote haiku inspired by the art.</p> <p>From Powell:</p> <p>About a quarter of the time, my creative writing class Word & Image: Poetry in Dialogue with Visual Art meets in the Allen Memorial Art Museum (AMAM). We spend class sessions in the galleries, and also in the Print Study Room with works I have requested that are not currently on view. The visit I most look forward to is the session we spend looking closely at woodblock prints by the Japanese masters Hiroshige and Hokusai. We always prepare for this visit by reading a range of poems—including Etheridge Knight’s haiku sequence about prison life and Wallace Stevens’ “Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird”—that illustrate how poets can explore a subject from multiple points of view. At the museum, we examine how artists use similar strategies. When we enter the Print Study Room, we’re met with more than a dozen gorgeous Mt. Fujis, from the famous, looming “Red Fuji,” to views where the distant mountain shrinks beneath a cherry blossom, is glimpsed through a barrel rolled by a workman, or is dwarfed by a foreground kite. </p> <p>So how, I wondered, could we capture the magic of those prints without being in their presence? The answer was to work collaboratively with Hannah Kinney and Emma Laube ’17 of the museum’s Office of Academic Programs, along with Kevin Greenwood, the Joan L. Danforth Curator of Asian Art, to create an online experience that was remarkable in its own ways. Hannah and Emma produced a Prezi document of high-definition images of the prints for me to share with my students. During our online class discussion, Kevin provided salient cultural context and deftly guided us through a close look at those artworks.</p> <p>But something special happened that couldn’t have happened in the Print Study Room: Kevin was able to zoom in on exquisite and illuminating details we might not have noticed on our own, and all 20 of us—Kevin, the 18 students, and myself—had equally perfect, front-row views of every detail. Our close engagement sparked such lively and meaningful discussion that at the end of class I invited the students to create haiku in response to one or more of the prints. During the next few days, as they added their haiku to a Google doc, a poetic sequence emerged that feels as vivid and communal as our experience of looking and talking together about art. <br> <br> You can <a href="https://vimeo.com/411031264/34a5e18a3a">watch the class give a reading</a> of the collaborative poem or read the haiku sequence, below, and see the print at the AMAM that inspired it. </p> <hr> <p>See an image of each of these works by clicking on the title.</p> <p>Tree peers over ledge<br> watching boats float towards Fuji —<br> trio doesn’t heed.</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/6202"><em>View of Konodai, no. 95</em></a>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>Do the waves wish they <br> were mountains, or do they want<br> to become the clouds?</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/5229"><em>Fuji between High Waves</em></a>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Kierra Nguyen</p> <p> *</p> <p>Mountain rises, floats<br> on yellow clouds, sun-lit sky.<br> Shoppers carry on. </p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/12614"><em>Fuji from Surugacho</em></a>, no. 8, Hiroshige) </p> <p>— Anna Kozler</p> <p> *</p> <p>Blossoms frame the light<br> The sleepless river flows towards— <br> and away from you</p> <p>(after <em><a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/14317">Cherry Blossoms at Koganei in Musashi Province</a></em>, no. 12, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Evan Lindberg</p> <p> *</p> <p>In the shadow of <br> bleak peaks, a valley blooming <br> with life’s rich color.</p> <p>(after <em><a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/6068">Autumn Flowers on the Otsuki Plain in Kai Province</a></em>, number 31, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Alfie Parr </p> <p> *</p> <p>Spying on heaven<br> through an old cherry tree’s eye—<br> will it know my gaze?</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/14317"><em>Cherry Blossoms at Koganei in Musashi Province</em></a>, no. 12, Hiroshige)</p> <p>Ruddy mountain waits<br> for evergreen to encroach,<br> patient and willing.</p> <p>(after <em><a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/15017">Fuji in Clear Weather [Red Fuji]</a></em>, Hokusai)</p> <p>— Jen Gallagher</p> <p> *</p> <p>A beautiful kite<br> soaring higher than Fuji—<br> maybe it’s grander.</p> <p>What way does the wind blow here?<br> Cloud fingers reach up and out.<br> Grip tight, lay-men work.</p> <p>All distinct until<br> ocean skies meet snow cap tops,<br> a beautiful blend. </p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/1730"><em>Fuji from the Roof of Hongan Temple</em></a>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Kaitlyn Rivers </p> <p> *</p> <p>A lone turtle hung<br> in isolation heeds the<br> holy missed vistas. </p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/3805"><em>Turtle Dangling from the Pole of a Vendor’s Tub on Mannen Bridge in Fukagawa</em></a>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Fudi Fickenscher</p> <p> *</p> <p>Big fish, you are here. <br> Through your immaculate blue <br> eye - see your sea seep.</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/6942"><em>Uidō Bridge and Surugadai</em></a>, no. 63, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Elia Tzoukermann</p> <p> *</p> <p>Men crawling like ants<br> camouflaged on the sloped roof.<br> Behind them: a kite. </p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/1730"><em>Fuji from the Roof of Hongan Temple</em></a>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Diana Montero </p> <p> *</p> <p>Mountain, drift over<br> to mourning that has no lease.<br> Wee townsfolk meet blue.</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/14743"><em>Dawn at Izawa in Kai Province</em></a>, Hokusai)</p> <p>— Ariana Hughes</p> <p> *</p> <p>Look! I am flying<br> high above the red blaze sky, <br> the white-capped ant hill.</p> <p>(after <em><a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/3805">Turtle Dangling from the Pole of a Vendor’s Tub on Mannen Bridge in Fukagawa</a></em>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Molly Bryson </p> <p> *</p> <p>Crystal clear expanse –<br> Elevate upon two peaks –<br> A moment of breath</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/1730"><em>Fuji from the Roof of Hongan Temple</em></a>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Anna Scott</p> <p> *</p> <p>Throng of faceless men, <br> backs turned to the darkest blue, <br> find her eye again. </p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/4970"><em>Fuji from the Ford on the Oi River at Kanaya on the Tōkaidō</em></a>, Hokusai)</p> <p>This your canary <br> light that folds like fine fabric. <br> Mark her gaze of lonely ice. </p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/12614"><em>Fuji from Surugacho</em></a>, no. 8, Hiroshige) </p> <p>— Maeve Woltring </p> <p> *</p> <p>The sky lays weary. <br> Heavy head meets sunken shoulder,<br> cradled by easing wake.</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/16472"><em>Sunset over Ryogoku Bridge</em></a>, Hokusai)</p> <p> — Toby Cochran</p> <p> *</p> <p>Briny arms of waves<br> raise holy sea-foam fractals<br> to birds’ blood-red sky.</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/6623"><em>Waves off the Satta Pass in Saruga Province</em></a>, no. 23, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Claire Jenisch</p> <p> *</p> <p>You hide your greatness<br> through the eye of a needle<br> threaded by water. </p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/14317"><em>Cherry Blossoms at Koganei in Musashi Province</em></a>, no. 12, Hiroshige)</p> <p>Unfurled before you,<br> sapphire-cerulean hue.<br> Reverence in blue.</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/1730"><em>Fuji from the Roof of Hongan Temple</em></a>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>Is your wind the same<br> as that which crashes the waves<br> lapping below you?</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/5229"><em>Fuji between High Waves from Shichiri Beach in Sagami Province</em></a>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Maya Rose Bater</p> <p> *</p> <p>My arms unanchored,<br> my shell betrays me, as it<br> ties me up, not down.</p> <p>(after <a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/3805"><em>Turtle Dangling from the Pole of a Vendor’s Tub on Mannen Bridge in Fukagawa</em></a>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Xander Lee</p> <p> *</p> <p>A reclining arch, <br> fish scale walls, morning sunshine.<br> Reach out and touch it.</p> <p>(after <em><a href="https://allenartcollection.oberlin.edu/objects/3805">Turtle Dangling from the Pole of a Vendor’s Tub on Mannen Bridge in Fukagawa</a></em>, Hiroshige)</p> <p>— Cyrus Thelin</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-04-28T12:00:00Z">Tue, 04/28/2020 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>These days, the classroom has taken on new meaning for both faculty and students at 91ֱ��. In this series we are sharing stories from faculty on how they are navigating this new normal. How have you adapted instruction to a remote learning environment? How have students shifted how they learn and participate? What’s changed, what’s stayed the same, or what has come as a pleasant surprise? Please <a href="mailto:communic@oberlin.edu">share an example or anecdote</a> that addresses one of these areas.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2378">Allen Memorial Art Museum</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2377">Arts & Humanities</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25326">Creative Writing</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/creative-writing" hreflang="und">Creative Writing</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Professor Lynn Powell's class reads haiku inspired by art in the Allen Memorial Art Museum's collection.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Courtesy of Lynn Powell</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-flex-content field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden vertical-spacing--basic field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <div id class="o-flex--video-embed"> <div class="video-embed-field-provider-vimeo video-embed-field-responsive-video"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Students Stay Connected to Community Organizations Remotely</h1> <p>hhempste — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 19:40:38 +0000</p> <span>Students Stay Connected to Community Organizations Remotely</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2020-03-30T15:40:38-04:00" title="Monday, March 30, 2020 - 15:40">Mon, 03/30/2020 - 15:40</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>With students taking classes remotely due to the <a href="/news/corona-virus-updates">COVID-19</a> global health crisis, some are also finding ways to maintain the connections they have formed in the 91ֱ�� community. </p> <p>Both the Northern Ohio Youth Orchestra (NOYO) and the Neos Center for Dance/Neos Dance Theatre are continuing to work with students in the Bonner Center for Community-Engaged Learning, Teaching, & Research’s <a href="/bcsl/programs/community-work">Community-Based Work-Study Program</a>. The work, which would normally happen on campus, is taking place remotely. </p> <p>Instead of working with students one-on-one, seniors Alec Rich and J Holzen will each lead a <a href="https://www.noyo.org/calendar/2020/04/05/noyo-knowledge-virtual-qa-sessions">virtual Q&A session</a> <span aria-hidden="true" class="fa fa-external-link"></span> with NOYO students, where they will offer advice on how to prepare for a career as a musician.</p> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>Senior J Holzen performs on stage with Northern Ohio Youth Orchestra students. <br> Photo courtesy of J Holzen ’20.</figcaption> </figure> <p>Colin Holter, executive director of the NOYO, says the online sessions address a need for students to learn from musicians such as Rich and Holzen. Topics of discussion will include how to prepare for an audition, ways to get ready for studying music in college, and what goes into renting and maintaining instruments.</p> <p>“NOYO students will be able to ask me questions about audition preparation, specifically my experience with auditioning for college, but also at a professional level,” says Rich, a tuba performance major. “That being said, it will be an open format, so I'll take questions as they come up and do my best to help everyone.”</p> <p>While on campus, first-year Sarah Liberatore worked with the <a href="https://www.neosdancetheatre.org/">Neos Center for Dance/Neos Dance Theatre</a> <span aria-hidden="true" class="fa fa-external-link"></span> as part of the Community-Based Work-Study Program. Liberatore’s work with the group will continue through a remote research project that will focus on building the organization’s modern/contemporary dance curriculum. Then, she’ll create a curriculum for three levels of classes to be used at Neos in the fall. </p> <p>According to Neos Director of Education and Outreach Gwen LeBar Feldman, the organization has also launched online classes to keep their students learning and dancing at home. Liberatore will be recording a tap dance step of the week for the fundamental-level dancers.</p> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption><br> First-year Sarah Liberatore will continue working with Neos Center for Dance/Neos Dance Theatre through a remote research project. Photo courtesy of Sarah Liberatore ’23</figcaption> </figure> <p>“Being connected to 91ֱ�� means something a bit different right now since I'm not physically there, but I'm really excited to be able to support Neos and their young dancers both in the current unusual moment and looking toward future terms,” says Liberatore. </p> <p>During this time of uncertainty in the world, cello performance major Holzen says that being able to stay connected to the community and NOYO is important. </p> <p>“Outside of performing, teaching is my biggest passion. I'm very grateful that, despite the unprecedented circumstances of this school year, I'm still able to provide guidance to my students. Any amount of normalcy we can hold onto during this uncertainty is incredibly valuable.”</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-03-30T12:00:00Z">Mon, 03/30/2020 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Hillary Hempstead</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2379">Student Life</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2381">Bonner Center</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2385">Community</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2356">Conservatory</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=37356">Tuba</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=35261">Cello</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/conservatory/divisions/strings" hreflang="und">Strings</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/conservatory/divisions/winds-brass-and-percussion" hreflang="und">Winds, Brass, and Percussion</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">While off campus, Alec Rich ’20 stays connected to the 91ֱ�� community through his work with Northern Ohio Youth Orchestra.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Courtesy of Alec Rich ’20</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Jewish Studies Program Experiences Renewal</h1> <p>hhempste — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 16:36:48 +0000</p> <span>Jewish Studies Program Experiences Renewal</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2019-08-26T12:36:48-04:00" title="Monday, August 26, 2019 - 12:36">Mon, 08/26/2019 - 12:36</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>91ֱ��’s <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/jewish-studies">Jewish Studies Program</a> recognizes that Jewish history, culture, religious tradition, and literature is embedded in the larger world. It’s integral for understanding the history of Europe, the United States, and other parts of the globe, says <a href="/ellen-wurtzel">Ellen Wurtzel</a>, associate professor of history and chair of the Jewish Studies Program from January 2018 to July 2019.</p> <p>This year, through a reimagination of programming and reallocation of resources, the program is experiencing a renewal. The changes will provide students with more opportunities to immerse themselves in the program.</p> <p>“We’re at a really exciting time with new faculty, new ideas for programming, and a shared language program in Hebrew with Ohio State University,” says Wurtzel. “If you’re a student interested in learning about Jewish culture, history, tradition, and language, you can do it all through the Jewish Studies Program.”</p> <p>Additions this academic year include two tenure-track professors: Shari Rabin, assistant professor of Jewish studies and religion, and Sheera Talpaz, assistant professor of comparative literature and Jewish studies. Matthew Berkman will also join the program as a visiting assistant professor of Jewish studies, and Professor of Religion <a href="/cindy-chapman">Cynthia Chapman</a> will serve as the program’s new chair.</p> <p>According to <a href="/laura-herron">Laura Herron</a>, assistant professor of Jewish studies, the program attracts a diverse group of students interested in religion, politics, history, literature, and cultural studies. Because most courses also count toward the cultural diversity requirement, students are able to enrich an existing area of study by either expanding its context or honing in on a specialization.</p> <p>“It’s not just students in the humanities and social sciences who take our courses. Last year, we had a biology major complete a minor in Jewish studies because the issue of migration resonated. We also have conservatory students who want to explore topics like Jewish musical traditions,” says Herron.</p> <p>Students who earn a major or minor in Jewish studies go on to a variety of careers. Some pursue a career in an academic or professional field, while others go on to graduate school, the education field, or work for charitable foundations.</p> <p>However, some students find even deeper inspiration in the program. Emily Volz ’19 entered 91ֱ�� thinking she would be on a pre-med track and then later go on to become an oncologist. After reevaluating her interest in that field, she dabbled in geology. “But that fell apart pretty quickly,” says Volz.</p> <p>After doing a summer program in Israel, Volz found the experiences she had pushed her in the direction of Jewish studies. She “found inspiration through a visiting professor of Jewish studies,” and she took four classes with that professor. The overall experience eventually led Volz to attend rabbinical school.</p> <p>Classes offered in the program this academic year include Introduction to Jewish Studies: Sacred Spaces and Promised Lands; New Testament Christian Origins; and Orientalism and the Jewish Question. Herron encourages all students to give Jewish studies at try. “I invite students who have perhaps never considered taking a Jewish studies course to take one this year. There’s room for everyone at the table.”</p> <p> </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2019-08-26T12:00:00Z">Mon, 08/26/2019 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Hillary Hempstead</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2363">Academics & Research</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25386">Jewish Studies</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-faculty field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/laura-herron" hreflang="und">Laura Herron</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/ellen-wurtzel" hreflang="und">Ellen Wurtzel</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/cindy-chapman" hreflang="und">Cynthia (Cindy) Chapman</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/jewish-studies" hreflang="und">Jewish Studies</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Rice Hall, home to 91ֱ��'s Jewish Studies Program.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Larry Kasperek</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Welcome New 2015-16 Arts & Sciences Faculty</h1> <p>Anonymous — Mon, 07 Nov 2016 18:19:41 +0000</p> <span>Welcome New 2015-16 Arts & Sciences Faculty</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2016-11-07T13:19:41-05:00" title="Monday, November 7, 2016 - 13:19">Mon, 11/07/2016 - 13:19</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The College of Arts and Sciences is proud to welcome 40 new faculty for the 2015-16 academic year. Read on to learn about several of these faculty members’ professional accomplishments, research, and personal interests!</p> <h3>Laura Atran-Fresco, Visiting Assistant Professor of French</h3> <p>Laura Atran-Fresco joins 91ֱ�� from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where she earned a PhD in Francophone Studies in 2014, along with a doctorate in sociology from the Sorbonne Nouvelle University in Paris. Her research focuses on North American French-speaking communities, particularly on their relationships to state and civil institutions.</p> <h3>Adrianne Barbo, Visiting Assistant Professor of French and The Five Colleges of Ohio, The Ohio State University Postdoctoral Fellow</h3> <p>Adrianne Barbo is a recent graduate from The Ohio State University. This year she will be teaching beginning French, intermediate French, and introduction to Francophone literature. Adrianne’s research interests in North African Francophone literature and culture as well as Beur literature and culture—particularly the issue of the hijab or the Islamic headscarf—will be reflected in her Francophone course. Adrianne has previously taught at The Ohio State University as well as in Marseille, France. She taught English courses at two universities in Morocco as a Fulbright language teaching assistant in 2012-2013 and is the former recipient of a Critical Language Scholarship (Egypt, Arabic - 2010).</p> <h3>Deborah Barer, Visiting Instructor in Religion and Jewish Studies</h3> <p>Deborah Barer comes to 91ֱ�� from the University of Virginia, where she is currently completing her PhD in religious studies. She will be teaching courses this year in scriptural interpretation, Jewish law, and rabbinic ethics. In her spare time she enjoys hiking, baking, and tinkering with her banjo.</p> <h3>Tina Botts, Visiting Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Consortium for Faculty Diversity Postdoc Fellow</h3> <p>Tina Botts comes to 91ֱ�� from the University of Michigan, where she was a fellow in law and philosophy in 2014-2015. Her book, <em>Philosophy and the Mixed Race Experience</em>, is being published by Lexington Books this winter. Botts’ areas of research are the philosophy of law, the philosophy of race, philosophical hermeneutics, feminist philosophy, ethics, political philosophy, and the history of philosophy. She is teaching an interdisciplinary course on hate speech in the fall and the philosophy of race and gender in the spring. Botts is a film buff and a jazz singer.</p> <h3>Naomi Campa, Visiting Assistant Professor of Classics and Mellon Postdoctoral Fellow</h3> <p>Naomi Campa looks forward to teaching courses on Plato, Greek history, and citizenship in ancient Athens while at 91ֱ��. Her research focuses on ideology in ancient democracy. Campa previously taught at New College of Florida and holds a PhD from the University of Washington. She hopes to see an albino squirrel soon and to learn how to make a proper snowball later.</p> <h3>Bradley Carter, Visiting Assistant Professor of Neuroscience</h3> <p>Brad Carter is teaching introductory neuroscience lecture, introductory neuroscience lab, developmental neurobiology, and developmental neurobiology lab. Prior to 91ֱ��, he worked as a postdoctoral fellow at the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and received his PhD from the University of Michigan. His research interests include molecular mechanisms related to mental health and enhancing undergraduate science curriculum and career development. He spends most of his time outside work with his wife and toddler and enjoys most sports (especially with racquets) and singing.</p> <h3>Colin Dawson, Assistant Professor of Mathematics</h3> <p>Originally from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Colin Dawson comes to 91ֱ�� from the University of Arizona in Tucson, where he earned an MS and PhD in psychology in 2011 and a PhD in philosophy in 2015. At 91ֱ�� Colin will teach and complete research in statistics. He will also research machine learning and artificial intelligence. A lifelong Cleveland baseball fan, he is excited to be so close to the home of the Indians.</p> <h3>Ana María Díaz Burgos, Assistant Professor of Hispanic Studies</h3> <p>Ana María Díaz Burgos comes to 91ֱ�� from Miami University. In the spring, she will be teaching seminars in Spanish composition and early modern literature focused on the roles women played in Spain and the Spanish Americas. She specializes in early modern Iberian literature and gender studies. Her research focuses on the tensions between institutional practices and female behavior in the trans-Atlantic world. Originally from Colombia, South America, she earned her PhD at Emory University. In her spare time she enjoys dancing, cooking, and practicing yoga.</p> <h3>Sarah El-Kazaz, Assistant Professor of Politics</h3> <p>Sarah El-Kazaz comes to 91ֱ�� from Princeton University where she earned her PhD and specializes in urban politics in the Middle East with a focus on Istanbul and Cairo in her current book project. She teaches courses on Middle East politics, urban politics, and political economy. She comes to 91ֱ�� with her husband, Ossama. Sarah and Ossama are both big tennis fans and are already planning their trip to the Cincinnati Open next summer.</p> <h3>Benjamin Fitch-Fleischmann, Assistant Professor of Economics and Environmental Studies</h3> <p>Ben Fitch-Fleischmann comes to 91ֱ�� from the University of Oregon where he received his PhD in economics. This year he will teach Principles of Economics as well as two courses in the environmental studies program, Environmental Economics and behavioral economics and the environment). In his spare time, Ben enjoys hiking, playing Ultimate Frisbee, and bluegrass music. </p> <h3>Sergio Gutiérrez Negrón, Visiting Instructor in Hispanic Studies</h3> <p>Sergio Gutiérrez Negrón comes to 91ֱ�� from Emory University in Atlanta, having finished his PhD earlier this year. For the next two semesters, he will teach courses on language and Latin American literature. Researcher and professor by day, Sergio moonlights as a writer, translator, and journalist. In his native Puerto Rico, he writes a monthly op-ed for the island’s main newspaper, <em>El Nuevo Día</em>, and has authored two prize-winning novels, <em>Palacio</em> and <em>Dicen que los dormidos</em>. He is currently finishing the translation of a monograph on Mexican film which will be published in Mexico in 2016.</p> <h3>Roberto Hoyle, Visiting Instructor in Computer Science</h3> <p>A native of Peru, Roberto Hoyle comes from Indiana University, where he is finishing his PhD. His research interests lie in human-computer interactions, focusing specifically on privacy and security through the use of wearable computers. His goal is to turn wearable cameras, such as Google Glass, into devices that can help us protect our privacy by allowing us to outsource some privacy decisions to them. Currently, he is teaching the courses Systems Programming and Database Systems. Outside of academia, his interests lie in wilderness search and rescue and martial arts.</p> <h3>Frank Kelderman, Visiting Assistant Professor of Comparative American Studies and 91ֱ��-Michigan Postdoc Fellow</h3> <p>Frank Kelderman comes to 91ֱ�� from the University of Michigan, where he received his PhD in American culture in 2015. He teaches Native American studies and literature at 91ֱ�� and is working on a book manuscript titled <em>Authorized Agents: The Projects of Native American Writing in the Era of Removal</em>, which explores collaborative publications by 19th-century Native American writers, speakers, and tribal leaders.</p> <h3>Tamika Nunley, Assistant Professor of History</h3> <p>Tamika Nunley comes to 91ֱ�� from the University of Virginia, where she completed her PhD in history. She will teach courses on slavery, race, gender, the American Civil War, and Reconstruction.</p> <h3>Karl Offen, Associate Professor of Environmental Studies</h3> <p>Karl Offen comes to 91ֱ�� from the University of Oklahoma, where he taught geography for 15 years. At 91ֱ�� he will teach Political Ecology and Environment and Society. His research examines how maps co-create the places they represent; Afro-Amerindian histories, environments, and cultures in Central America and the Caribbean Basin; and the historical ecologies and geographies of the African diaspora. He is from California, is married to Chie Sakakibara, and has two daughters.</p> <h3>Branwen Okpako, Visiting Max Kade German Writer in Residence</h3> <p>Born in Lagos, Nigeria, <a href="https://new.oberlin.edu/arts-and-sciences/departments/german/writer-in-residence.dot">Branwen Okpako</a> comes to 91ֱ�� from Hampshire College in Amherst, Massachusetts, where she taught as a visiting associate professor of film. She received her BSC in politics from Bristol University in Bristol, England, and her MFA-equivalent Diplom in Film Directing from the German Film and Television Academy (DFFB) in Berlin. Branwen has been producing videos, mixed-media installations, and films since the early ‘90s, which have earned her numerous prestigious awards. She also writes and directs for the theater, most notably at the Ballhaus Naunynstr in Berlin. Gender and African-Diasporic identity in Germany are recurring themes in Branwen’s work.</p> <h3>Bogdan Popa, Visiting Assistant Professor of Politics</h3> <p>Bogdan Popa comes to 91ֱ�� from Indiana University, Bloomington, where he taught and received his PhD. His main areas of research is queer studies, contemporary political thought, and political activism. On his office door you can find his motto, "My office hours are poorly attended because I teach it right the first time."</p> <h3>Alysia Ramos, Assistant Professor of Dance</h3> <p>Alysia Ramos joins 91ֱ�� from Salt Lake City, where she received her MFA from the University of Utah and worked as an adjunct professor at Westminster College. Prior, she worked as a dancer, choreographer, and teaching artist in New York City for more than a decade. Her research focuses on new approaches to modern dance centered on self-expression as a response to embodied experiences encountered in the global age, with a specific emphasis on hybrid, intercultural, and transnational movement practices. She will teach contemporary technique classes and direct the 91ֱ�� Dance Company. She comes to 91ֱ�� with her son, Tiago.</p> <h3>Matthew Rarey, Assistant Professor of Art</h3> <p>Matthew Rarey comes to 91ֱ�� from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, where he taught for one year after finishing his PhD at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He specializes in and teaches courses on African and black Atlantic arts and religions; cross-cultural exchange; and theories of race, enslavement, and visual culture. In his spare time, he and his wife plan on partaking in too many pub trivia nights and searching out the finest tacos and barbecue northeast Ohio has to offer.</p> <h3>Chie Sakakibara, Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies</h3> <p>Chie Sakakibara comes to 91ֱ�� from the University of Oklahoma, where she received her PhD in cultural geography. Prior to her appointment at 91ֱ��, Sakakibara taught at the University of Oklahoma, Appalachian State University, and Columbia University. In Fall 2015, she teaches Indigenous Peoples and Resources and co-teaches ENVS 201 Nature, Culture, and Interpretation with Janet Fiskio, associate professor of environmental studies. The primary aspect of Chie's teaching and research interests lies in the human dimensions of global environmental change among indigenous peoples in the circumpolar region and East Asia, specifically on their cultural resilience and socio-environmental justice. </p> <h3>Christi Smith, Visiting Assistant Professor of Sociology</h3> <p>Christi M. Smith teaches political sociology, School and Punishment, war and peace, and Econ Sociology: Morals/Markets. After graduating from Smith College, she worked in Copenhagen, Denmark; Washington, DC; and North Carolina before pursuing a PhD in sociology at Indiana University.</p> <p>The College of Arts and Sciences also welcomes the following new faculty.</p> <ul> <li>María Balandrán-Castillo, Visiting Instructor in History </li><li>Michael Barber, Visiting Instructor in Economics </li><li>Bijetri Bose, Visiting Instructor in Economics </li><li>Jacob Ciocci, Visiting Assistant Professor of Art </li><li>Elizabeth Gramm, Visiting Assistant Professor of Creative Writing </li><li>Wesley Hiers, Visiting Assistant Professor of Sociology </li><li>Asako Izumi, Visiting Instructor in Japanese </li><li>A. Naomi Jackson, Visiting Assistant Professor of Creative Writing (Spring 2016) </li><li>Benjamin Landry, Visiting Assistant Professor of Creative Writing and Research Associate in Creative Writing </li><li>Charles Lockwood, Visiting Assistant Professor of Religion </li><li>Rostom Mesli, Visiting Assistant Professor of Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies and 91ֱ��-Michigan Postdoc Fellow </li><li>Kathryn Miller, Visiting Assistant Professor of Politics </li><li>Peter Minosh, Visiting Instructor in Art </li><li>Luke Parker, Visiting Assistant Professor of Russian and Mellon Postdoctoral Fellow </li><li>Austin Parks, Visiting Instructor in East Asian Studies and History </li><li>RaShelle Peck, Faculty in Residence at Afrikan Heritage House and Lecturer in African American Studies </li><li>Charles Peterson, Associate Professor of Africana Studies </li><li>Danielle Terrazas Williams, Assistant Professor of History </li></ul></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2015-09-30T12:00:00Z">Wed, 09/30/2015 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2414">Faculty</a></div> </div> </article> </main></body></html>