Carmen Twillie Ambar Hosts New Podcast</h1> <article> <h1>Carmen Twillie Ambar Hosts New Podcast</h1> <p>eburnett — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 20:03:51 +0000</p> <span>Carmen Twillie Ambar Hosts New Podcast</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-09-27T16:03:51-04:00" title="Wednesday, September 27, 2023 - 16:03">Wed, 09/27/2023 - 16:03</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>For 190 years and counting, 91ֱ�� students and graduates have earned their reputation as engaged citizens dedicated to leading positive change throughout the world.</p> <p>That legacy of commitment serves as the launch pad behind <a href="/news-and-events/running-to-the-noise-podcast"><em>Running to the Noise</em></a>, a new monthly podcast hosted by 91ֱ�� President <a href="/node/48561">Carmen Twillie Ambar</a>.</p> <p><em>Running to the Noise</em> will feature an expansive cross section of 91ֱ�� influencers and others who bring innovative thinking to complex challenges spanning the worlds of entertainment, politics, arts, society, and more.</p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Ed Helms is the featured guest on the first episode of “Running to the Noise.” (photo by Ron Knerem)</figcaption> </figure> <p>The debut episode, “Using Your Platform for Good,” features actor-comedian Ed Helms, a 1996 91ֱ�� grad and member of 91ֱ��’s Board of Trustees. It drops Thursday, September 28.</p> <p><em>Running to the Noise</em> takes its name from First Lady Michelle Obama’s commencement address to 91ֱ��’s class of 2015, whom she implored to follow 91ֱ��’s history and “run to the noise”—those challenging, often contentious situations that call for clear-headed and impassioned thinkers.<br> <br> “As the first college in America to officially embrace the admission of Black students and the first co-ed school to grant bachelor’s degrees to women, 91ֱ�� has been a leader in shaping necessary change since our founding days,” says Ambar. “We’ve been running to the noise for years, and so I thought that was an apt title for the podcast—and that’s exactly what we’ll do in each episode. Our goal is to learn together as we tackle the tough topics, sprinkling in some laughter for good measure.”</p> <p>Helms is the star of the hit series <em>The Office</em>, the <em>Hangover</em> trilogy, and co-creator and star of the Peacock original series <em>Rutherford Falls</em>, among numerous other projects. In the podcast’s first episode, Helms and Ambar discuss his role in championing diversity in Hollywood; Helms’ new podcast, <em>SNAFU</em>, through which the history nerd explores history’s biggest blunders; and how others can use their platform—however big or small—to promote change in their own ways.</p> <p>A new episode of <em>Running to the Noise</em> will premiere on the final Thursday of each month. Future episodes will feature U.S. diplomat and former longtime president of the Council on Foreign Relations Richard Haass ’73, famed operatic mezzo-soprano and educator Denyce Graves ’85, and others.</p> <p><em>Running to the Noise</em> is available on <a href="/news-and-events/running-to-the-noise-podcast">91ֱ��.edu</a>.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Running to the Noise shines a light on influential thinkers from 91ֱ�� and beyond; premiere episode drops Sep. 28.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2023-09-27T12:00:00Z">Wed, 09/27/2023 - 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=2577">Office of the President</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3914">Podcast</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="/carmen-twillie-ambar" hreflang="und">Carmen Twillie Ambar</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">Office of Communications</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>91ֱ�� Responds to Supreme Court Decision on Affirmative Action</h1> <p>eburnett — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 15:35:26 +0000</p> <span>91ֱ�� Responds to Supreme Court Decision on Affirmative Action</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-06-29T11:35:26-04:00" title="Thursday, June 29, 2023 - 11:35">Thu, 06/29/2023 - 11:35</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>On June 29, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to end affirmative action, the law enacted to improve educational and employment opportunities for members of groups that have faced discrimination. The court’s ruling prohibits colleges and universities from considering race as a factor in the admissions process.</p> <p><a href="/node/458745">Read 91ֱ�� President Carmen Twillie Ambar’s response</a> to the high court’s decision.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Ruling bars colleges from considering race as a factor in admissions.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2023-06-29T12:00:00Z">Thu, 06/29/2023 - 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=2556">Admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2577">Office of the President</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-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Heisman Club and President Ambar Host An Evening with Tommie Smith</h1> <p>anagy — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 21:15:57 +0000</p> <span>Heisman Club and President Ambar Host An Evening with Tommie Smith</span> <span><span>anagy</span></span> <span><time datetime="2020-11-10T16:15:57-05:00" title="Tuesday, November 10, 2020 - 16:15">Tue, 11/10/2020 - 16:15</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>91ֱ��, Ohio—91ֱ�� College’s Heisman Club and the Presidential Initiative on Racial Equity and Diversity present “The Fist is Still Raised: A Conversation with Dr. Tommie Smith’’ at 7:30 p.m., on Tuesday, November 17.</p> <p>Heisman Club board member and hall of fame inductee George Smith ’87 will moderate the Zoom discussion. He is a coanchor with WKOW 27 News in Madison, Wisconsin, and a former correspondent for ESPN. Preregistration is required for this event.</p> <p>“The Heisman Club is honored to partner with President Ambar for this special evening,” said Heisman Club President Mark Walsh ‘77. “Tommie’s story is truly amazing and is as relevant today as it was in 1968. Those who join us will be inspired and informed by his powerful message.”</p> <p>Smith won the gold medal in the 200 meters at the 1968 Summer Olympics with a world-record time of 19.83, but it is what he did after the race that has lived on for 52 years. Standing on the medal podium, along with his teammate John Carlos, Smith raised a fist to protest racism and injustice against African Americans in the United States. A controversial gesture at the time, it remains a symbolic moment in history.</p> <p> “It was not a ‘Black Power Salute’ as has been written on numerous occasions,” said Smith. “It was a ‘human rights salute’ more than anything else.”</p> <p>Smith was treated harshly for the stand he took, including receiving death threats, but he has dedicated his life to fighting oppression and racism. </p> <p>‘‘We are thrilled Tommie Smith will be sharing his remarkable journey and wisdom with us,’’ said AVP for Athletics Advancement and Delta Lodge Director of Athletics & Physical Education Natalie Winkelfoos, who serves on the <a href="/node/410371">Presidential Initiative on Racial Equity and Diversity</a> committee. “His bold actions more than 50 years ago took great courage and strength. Today, these same injustices are still some of society’s most pressing issues. Smith is a perfect guest as our institution’s stakeholders work to elevate our educational efforts that will challenge existing inequalities and injustices. We are honored to have him as a part of our 91ֱ�� athletics history.’’</p> <p>One year after his Olympic win, Smith completed his bachelor’s degree in social science at San Jose State University, and then earned a master's degree in social change from Goddard College. </p> <p>At 91ֱ�� College, he served as athletics director and head coach in track and field, men’s basketball, and football. </p> <p>Smith completed his autobiography titled <em>Silent Gesture</em> in 2007. He and Carlos also were the recipients of the ESPYS Arthur Ashe Courage Award in July 2008.</p> <p>Smith, who is featured in the 1999 HBO documentary <em>Fists of Freedom: The Story of the '68 Summer Games</em>, was a faculty member and track coach at Santa Monica College until his retirement in 2005.</p> <p><a href="https://wkow.com/2018/10/03/george-smith/">George Smith</a> <span aria-hidden="true" class="fa fa-external-link"></span> is a national media personality who has covered some of the most compelling and exciting sports events during the last 20 years. He has met with three U.S. presidents. His passion lies in communicating and telling the compelling story related to news, events, people, and human interests. Smith, who earned a master’s degree in journalism at Columbia University, spent 10 years as a correspondent for ESPN appearing on <em>Sports Center</em> and <em>Outside the Lines </em>before returning to regional broadcast news.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-11-10T12:00:00Z">Tue, 11/10/2020 - 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="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2577">Office of the President</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2390">Events</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="/carmen-twillie-ambar" hreflang="und">Carmen Twillie Ambar</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Tommie Smith completed an autobiography, ‘‘Silent Gesture,’’ in 2007.</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 Tommie Smith</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>91ֱ�� College Establishes Presidential Initiative on Racial Equity and Diversity in Response to National Distress</h1> <p>swargo — Fri, 28 Aug 2020 14:12:31 +0000</p> <span>91ֱ�� College Establishes Presidential Initiative on Racial Equity and Diversity in Response to National Distress</span> <span><span>swargo</span></span> <span><time datetime="2020-08-28T10:12:31-04:00" title="Friday, August 28, 2020 - 10:12">Fri, 08/28/2020 - 10:12</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>OBERLIN, OHIO – President Carmen Twillie Ambar and 91ֱ�� College announced today the launch of the Presidential Initiative on Racial Equity and Diversity in response to increasing injustice and racial tensions in America. The Presidential Initiative will elevate and advance 91ֱ��’s more than 180-year commitment to the education and rights of Blacks in America, and will provide the framework for faculty and students to address issues of violence, police-community relationships, and racial injustices. </p> <p><a href="https://www.marshall.usc.edu/personnel/shaun-harper">Shaun Harper</a> <span aria-hidden="true" class="fa fa-external-link"></span>, one of the nation’s foremost experts on racial culture on college campuses, will work with the commission to assess and improve 91ֱ��’s approach to campus diversity.</p> <p>‘‘The work of dismantling the vestiges of white supremacy, anti-Black policies, and gender inequality has long been embedded in the promise of 91ֱ�� College,’’ Ambar wrote in her <a href="/about-oberlin/presidential-initiative-racial-equity-and-diversity/declaration">charge to the commission</a> of 21 faculty, staff, and students from the college and the conservatory. ‘‘This work in the 21st century, however, looks different than it did in 1833.’’</p> <p>The announcement follows a personal note Ambar wrote to the 91ֱ�� community after the killing of George Floyd and reflects sentiments expressed across the country after the recent shooting of Jacob Blake. </p> <p>‘‘At every turn it seems we are watching in anguish a world that views African Americans as less than human and unworthy of dignity,’’ she wrote. ‘‘The Black community—my community—is in excruciating pain. We are contending with what appears to be an unending well of racism and bigotry. We are witnessing an unraveling and a democracy that is now in search of its foundational societal norms. Hatred, anger, illness, and death fill our screens. There is grief at the abandonment of our ideals and a tearing of the heart as we see the impact on our children.’’</p> <p>Meredith Gadsby, associate professor of Africana studies and comparative American studies, and Bill Quillen, dean of the conservatory, will cochair the commission, which will evaluate 91ֱ��’s programming in both the college and conservatory, review hiring, and examine divisional and departmental climates to identify methods to elevate 91ֱ��‘s commitment to equity.</p> <p>‘‘Although this is an incredibly painful moment for Black people, people of color, and all people of conscience, I am energized by examples of generations of Black men and women who mobilized and continue to mobilize in struggle,’’ said Gadsby. ‘‘This energy propels me forward to engage in this important work with President Ambar, colleagues, and students.’’</p> <p>‘‘ 91ֱ�� are united in undertaking this critical mission to help improve and redefine education in America,’’ said William Quillen, dean of the conservatory. ‘‘It is imperative that we respond to these challenges with immediacy, for the sake of our students today and for the sake of future generations who deserve a world grounded in equity and an expanded, shared sense of belonging.’’</p> <p>The commission‘s work will span the 2020-2021 academic year, with the expectation of both short-term and long-term strategic recommendations at year’s end. Their partnership with Harper and the USC Race and Equity Center will help guide the work, which will include quantitative and qualitative assessments of related efforts already under way at 91ֱ�� and a climate assessment survey of the college and conservatory. The commission will lead the development of meaningful antiracism education and professional development for all members of the campus community, and will assess the viability, form, and structure of what a Center on Race and Equity could look like on 91ֱ��‘s campus. </p> <p>The commission will evaluate hiring policies and practices that ensure accountability in both the development of diverse applicant pools and the assessment of candidates, and will offer initiatives that more effectively launch Black students into graduate programs and professional pursuits after 91ֱ��.</p> <p>President Ambar‘s charge requires that recommendations have both an internal and external framing, to ensure the institution can speak nationally and internally in a moment that is critical to both higher education and to the nation. </p> <p>‘‘There are national moments that call upon all of us to gather our energies and take hold of moral missions, and this is one of those moments,’’ Ambar said. ‘‘Once again, we should assess ourselves and the role we play in educating our students to go out into the world to act upon the change that we want to see manifested in it.‘‘</p> <p><strong>About 91ֱ��</strong></p> <p>Ranked among the nation’s top liberal arts schools, 91ֱ�� is known for its exemplary academic and musical pedagogy and its commitment to social justice, sustainability, and creative entrepreneurship. The college, founded in 1833, holds a distinguished place among American colleges and universities as the first to grant bachelor's degrees to women in a coeducational environment and was a leader in the education of Black Americans. The Conservatory of Music, a recipient of the National Medal of Arts, was founded in 1865, making it the oldest continuously operating conservatory in the United States. 91ֱ�� Conservatory alumni enjoy illustrious careers in all aspects of the music world, achieving prominence as performers, conductors, composers, music educators, scholars, and arts administrators.</p> <p>Contact:</p> <p>Scott Wargo<br> Director of Media Relations<br> 440-775-5197<br> <a href="mailto:Scott.Wargo@oberlin.edu?subject=President's%20Initiative%20on%20Diversity%20and%20Equity">Scott.Wargo@oberlin.edu</a> <span aria-hidden="true" class="fa fa-envelope-o"></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-08-28T12:00:00Z">Fri, 08/28/2020 - 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=2359">Administration</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2577">Office of the President</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2385">Community</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="/meredith-gadsby" hreflang="und">Meredith Gadsby</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/william-quillen" hreflang="und">William Quillen</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/carmen-twillie-ambar" hreflang="und">Carmen Twillie Ambar</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">Office of Communications</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>President Ambar Endorses Carbon Pricing Initiative</h1> <p>anagy — Mon, 17 Dec 2018 18:46:08 +0000</p> <span>President Ambar Endorses Carbon Pricing Initiative</span> <span><span>anagy</span></span> <span><time datetime="2018-12-17T13:46:08-05:00" title="Monday, December 17, 2018 - 13:46">Mon, 12/17/2018 - 13:46</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>91ֱ�� College President Carmen Twillie Ambar recently signed a letter calling on national and local elected officials to enact a carbon pricing policy.</p> <p>Ambar joins more than 20 college and university presidents who have signed the Higher Education Carbon Pricing Initiative. Carbon pricing is widely regarded as a low-cost, efficient solution that can grow jobs in clean energy and other sectors and generate economic benefits.</p> <p>The open letter urges state and federal lawmakers to proactively work to enact legislation that would put a price on carbon emissions and transition to a clean-energy economy.</p> <p>“Carbon pricing creates an economy-wide incentive to reduce greenhouse gases in economically efficient ways that can, if revenues are used wisely, benefit low-income households while stimulating job growth,” the letter states. “The World Bank has endorsed carbon pricing as a way to accurately account for the external costs of emissions, like crop loss, flood damage, and medical treatments that result from heat waves and other climate change disasters. Thousands of businesses support carbon pricing for its transparent and predictable approach.”</p> <p>91ֱ�� College has long been a leader in supporting initiatives that place colleges and universities at the forefront of the movement toward environmental sustainability. “It is important that we support efforts to fight climate change on our campus,” says President Ambar, “but we must also encourage policy makers to adopt legislation that will foster growth in clean energy and enable future generations to thrive.”</p> <p>The Higher Education Carbon Pricing Endorsement Initiative is led by Our Climate in partnership with the National Geographic documentary series Years of Living Dangerously. Our Climate mobilizes and empowers young people to educate the public and elected officials about science-based, equitable climate policy solutions that build a livable world. It leads the #PutAPriceOnIt campaign, which recruits, train, and support student leaders across the country to advocate for carbon pricing.</p> <p>Second-year Jess Wilber, founder of the 91ֱ�� chapter of the <a href="https://citizensclimatelobby.org/blog/grassroots/volunteer-spotlight-jessica-wilber/">Citizens’ Climate Lobby</a>, a nonprofit advocacy group, says she is thrilled that President Ambar agreed to sign the initiative, and she hopes it will grab the attention of legislators.</p> <p>Wilber, an environmental studies and East Asian studies double major, notes that a bill titled the “Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act” was recently introduced by a bipartisan team of representatives to the House floor. “President Ambar’s endorsement came at the perfect moment. We will need to demonstrate to our congressional leaders that the revenue-neutral carbon tax presented in this bill is widely supported by their constituents.”</p> <p>In December 2006, 91ֱ�� College was the first of its peer institutions to sign the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, which set an institutional plan for achieving carbon neutrality. In 2010, the college submitted its first plan with a target of reaching carbon neutrality by 2025.</p> <p>After President Donald Trump withdrew from the Paris Climate Agreement, Ambar joined the “Grand Coalition” of businesses, mayors, and college and university presidents affirming support for climate action.</p> <p>91ֱ��’s Committee on Environmental Sustainability (CES), which includes faculty and staff and representatives from the city of 91ֱ�� charged with overseeing the development and implementation of 91ֱ��’s environmental policies, also supports a carbon pricing policy.</p> <p>“The current members of CES recognize that regional and national legislation, such as the fee and dividend proposal advocated by the Citizens Climate Lobby, are critical to addressing efforts to address climate change,” CES chair and Professor of Environmental Studies John Petersen states in an endorsement letter. “A price on carbon would increase the economic advantages of the sustainability leadership that 91ֱ�� College is already exercising.”</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2018-12-18T12:00:00Z">Tue, 12/18/2018 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Amanda Nagy</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=2359">Administration</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2369">Environment & Sustainability</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2577">Office of the President</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="/carmen-twillie-ambar" hreflang="und">Carmen Twillie Ambar</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Bicycles lined up outside the Cox Administration Building.</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">Gregory Pendolino</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Inauguration Weekend</h1> <p>hhempste — Tue, 25 Sep 2018 19:11:08 +0000</p> <span>Inauguration Weekend</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2018-09-25T15:11:08-04:00" title="Tuesday, September 25, 2018 - 15:11">Tue, 09/25/2018 - 15:11</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>On October 5 at 4:30 p.m., 91ֱ�� College will install Carmen Twillie Ambar as its 15th president and first African American leader in the institution’s 184-year history. The ceremony is a ticketed event and will be streamed live at <a href="http://oberlin.edu/inauguration">oberlin.edu/inauguration</a>.</p> <p>The installation ceremony and associated events, including a keynote lecture with Sir David Adjaye, will take place October 4–6, 2018.</p> <p>Read more about <a href="/events/special-events/presidential-inauguration">Inauguration Weekend</a> and details about the <a href="/events/special-events/presidential-inauguration/inaugural-events">weekend’s events</a>.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2018-10-01T12:00:00Z">Mon, 10/01/2018 - 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=2577">Office of the President</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2354">Campus Life</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="/carmen-twillie-ambar" hreflang="und">Carmen Twillie Ambar</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">President Carmen Twillie Ambar</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">Tanya Rosen-Jones '97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>President Ambar Responds to DACA Announcement</h1> <p>bdenneen — Sun, 10 Sep 2017 17:08:01 +0000</p> <span>President Ambar Responds to DACA Announcement</span> <span><span>bdenneen</span></span> <span><time datetime="2017-09-10T13:08:01-04:00" title="Sunday, September 10, 2017 - 13:08">Sun, 09/10/2017 - 13:08</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Read President Ambar's message:</p> <ul> <li> <p><a href="/node/50211">Message from President Ambar on DACA Announcement</a> (September 5, 2017)</p> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2017-09-05T12:00:00Z">Tue, 09/05/2017 - 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>President Ambar sent a message to the campus community in response to the announced phase-out of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.</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=2577">Office of the President</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2353">College Access</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> </article> <article> <h1>Carmen Twillie Ambar Named 15th President of 91ֱ��</h1> <p>bdenneen — Tue, 30 May 2017 20:19:39 +0000</p> <span>Carmen Twillie Ambar Named 15th President of 91ֱ��</span> <span><span>bdenneen</span></span> <span><time datetime="2017-05-30T16:19:39-04:00" title="Tuesday, May 30, 2017 - 16:19">Tue, 05/30/2017 - 16:19</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Ambar, currently president of Cedar Crest College, will be on campus full time beginning in September.</p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-left" style="width: 300px; max-width: 100%"> <figcaption>Carmen Twillie Ambar addresses the campus community during an announcement ceremony on May 30, 2017. Photo credit: Scott Shaw.</figcaption> </figure> <p>Ambar’s values align closely with 91ֱ��’s mission. “91ֱ�� is a singular institution in American higher education, with an historic commitment to social justice, academic and musical excellence, and the liberal arts,” Ambar says. “I look forward to my work with 91ֱ��’s faculty, staff, students, board, and alumni to think creatively and collaboratively together. I am humbled to be joining this institution and excited about the opportunity to lead it into its next era.”</p> <p>Lillie Edwards ’75, chair of the Presidential Search Committee, says, “I look forward to seeing the ways in which 91ֱ�� and President Ambar will inspire each other. She is passionate about the ways music and the liberal arts are powerfully transformative. She is visionary in thinking about how we can carry our mission into the 21st century. She is compassionate about who has access to this transformation. These principles are not only professional; for her they are also movingly personal. They reveal how much learning and labor are already in her DNA.”</p> <p>Ambar has served as the 13th president of Cedar Crest College since 2008, following a highly successful tenure as vice president and dean of Douglass College at Rutgers University, where she was the youngest dean in the University’s history. Cedar Crest has thrived under her leadership. Three straight years with budget surpluses and a 35 percent growth in net assets have allowed the college to make significant investments in the campus without borrowing, and the college’s endowment has increased by almost 92 percent. Ambar has presided over the launch of 18 new academic programs and, during her tenure, Cedar Crest has seen enrollment growth in six of the last seven years and this fall will welcome its largest freshman class since 2007.</p> <p>“I'm incredibly excited to work with Carmen Ambar as 91ֱ��'s next president,” says Chris Canavan ’84, chair-elect of 91ֱ��’s Board of Trustees. “Her life story, her academic achievements, her devotion to the liberal arts and her love of music make her the very embodiment of 91ֱ��. Under her leadership, I'm confident that 91ֱ�� can advance with the times without losing sight of who we are.”</p> <p>The Presidential Search Committee was impressed with Ambar’s deep commitment to helping students see their potential in new and creative ways, achieve at the highest levels in whatever field they choose, and ultimately change the world for the better. "President Ambar has a record of recognizing and embracing the importance of participatory governance, knowing that the community is integral to an institution's trajectory,” says Jeremy Poe ’18. “She understands both the challenges of equitable access to education and the equity disparities students face after matriculating. Her theories about how an institution can and should adapt will forestall concerns about a top-down approach. I'm excited to see and be a part of what 91ֱ�� is able to do under her leadership, and I know other students will be similarly excited."</p> <p>Access and retention are paramount priorities for Ambar. At Cedar Crest, she led initiatives to expand the access of high-impact practices for all students including: “The Sophomore Expedition,” a shared short-term study abroad experience funded almost entirely by the college for all sophomores beginning spring 2018; campus vibrancy initiatives and a robust First-Year-Experience that have increased retention by 11 percent; the 4-Year Guarantee, which provides a clear path to graduation; dual degrees, to help students get their master’s faster; and living learning communities. Under her leadership, the diversity of the student body increased from 16 percent in fall 2008 to 37 percent in fall 2016, with the highest increases in Hispanic and African American populations.</p> <p>91ֱ�� faculty who served on the Presidential Search Committee were inspired by Ambar’s vision. Jennifer Bryan, associate professor of English, says, “I think of Carmen Ambar as the pragmatist's idealist. She's clear-eyed and tough-minded, honest and smart, and she believes passionately in the transformative power and social impact of what we do. I think she's really inspiring, and I'm confident that she's going to be a powerful voice for 91ֱ��'s mission and values.”</p> <p>Jan Miyake '96, associate professor of music theory, echoes: “I was impressed by her broad thinking, mission-driven approach, and listening skills, and I am confident that she is an experienced leader who is ready to guide us through these next years at 91ֱ��.”</p> <p>Ambar serves on several boards including the Colonial States Athletic Conference, for which she is chair; the Women’s College Coalition; and the Pennsylvania Campus Compact board. In 2014, she was honored by the governor’s office as a Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania. Additionally, she has earned several awards for her support of women including the 2012 Girls Scouts “Take the Lead” Award, the 2011 American Association of University Women (AAUW) Gateway to Equity Award from the organization’s Allentown Branch, and the 2010 Athena Award from the Women’s Business Council (WBC) of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.</p> <p>Prior to her time at Rutgers, Ambar served as assistant dean of graduate education at the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University. As an attorney, she previously worked in the New York City Law Department as an assistant corporation counsel.</p> <p>Ambar earned a juris doctorate at Columbia Law School, a master’s in public affairs at Princeton University, and a BS in Foreign Service at Georgetown University. She is married to Saladin Malik Ambar, PhD, an associate professor in the Department of Political Science and Senior Scholar at the Center on the American Governor at the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University. A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, Ambar has 10-year-old triplets, Gabrielle, Luke, and Daniel.</p> <p>Carol Levine '84, president-elect of the 91ֱ�� Alumni Association, also welcomes Ambar’s selection: “Carmen Ambar is compelling, warm and engaging. She drew us in with her insight and commentary based on thoughtful research. She immediately got the pulse of 91ֱ��—both strengths and weaknesses—and delved right into even the most difficult subjects. I believe she will be a great motivator. She is present, driven, and ready to take on everything 91ֱ�� is and hopes to be.”</p> <p>The nationwide search for 91ֱ��’s 15th president began in autumn 2016, when Marvin Krislov announced his resignation from the presidency effective June 30, 2017. A search committee, which included representatives from the Board of Trustees, alumni, faculty, staff, and the student body, solicited nominations, closely reviewed the credentials of the candidates, and conducted extensive interviews.</p> <hr> <p><i>Watch the <a href="https://youtu.be/LeZzPIPz_tg">video of the announcement event</a>.</i></p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2017-05-30T12:00:00Z">Tue, 05/30/2017 - 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>The 91ֱ�� College Board of Trustees announced today that Carmen Twillie Ambar will become the College’s 15th president and first African American leader in the institution's 184-year history.</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=2363">Academics & Research</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2359">Administration</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2554">Board of Trustees</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2577">Office of the President</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="/carmen-twillie-ambar" hreflang="und">Carmen Twillie Ambar</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">Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Statement in Support of Undocumented Students</h1> <p>Anonymous — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 20:25:42 +0000</p> <span>Statement in Support of Undocumented Students</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2017-01-31T15:25:42-05:00" title="Tuesday, January 31, 2017 - 15:25">Tue, 01/31/2017 - 15:25</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>In the wake of the presidential election, our community has expressed deep concerns about the enforcement of immigration laws and the potential elimination of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Here at 91ֱ��, I have heard undocumented students express fear for the future of their education, their ability to work and travel, and even their basic safety. It is heartbreaking to hear these valued members of our educational community contemplate such barriers after trusting the DACA program to support them in their achievements and recognize their contributions to campuses across the country.</p> <p>I know many of you, reckoning with your own uncertainty and anxiety about possible changes in Federal government, signed the petition calling on 91ֱ�� “to join other colleges and universities and investigate how to make 91ֱ�� a sanctuary campus that will protect our community members from intimidation, unfair investigation, and deportation.” We acknowledge and thank Obies for Undocumented Inclusion and the Undocumented Student Initiatives of the Multicultural Resource Center for their efforts to raise awareness of and support undocumented students at 91ֱ�� College before and during this critical juncture.</p> <p>The term “sanctuary” in this context is not well defined. But it does convey 91ֱ��’s long-standing values of respect for diversity, inclusion and human rights. So as I embrace the spirit of the “sanctuary campus” movement, I also want to outline practical measures 91ֱ�� is taking to protect those who may be at risk during this challenging time.</p> <p>These include:</p> <p>• admitting all qualified students regardless of immigration status and meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students. This position reflects 91ֱ��’s long-standing commitment to the importance of a diverse and inclusive educational community and to dismantling barriers to an 91ֱ�� education. 91ֱ��’s historical legacy teaches us that confronting injustice as an educational community is critical to achieving our goal of offering a truly excellent and transformative education.</p> <p>• refraining from providing information about our community members’ immigration status to government agents or allowing government agents to gain access to our campus, unless required to do so by a court order, subpoena, warrant, or other lawfully authorized directive – a long-standing practice which we will now regard as institutional policy.</p> <p>• identifying resources to promote the success of all students – including undocumented students – at 91ֱ��. Our commitment to meeting the full demonstrated financial need is unwavering. If a student loses work eligibility and work can no longer be part of a financial aid award, we will identify other sources to meet financial need. Where possible, for students who lose driver’s licenses or face other challenges as a result of changes in the DACA program, we will make referrals to legal experts, seek to identify transportation assistance, and make other support that may become necessary. Individuals seeking these or other resources may call the Dean of Students office for assistance (440-775-8462). Staff with professional expertise related to support of undocumented students are also available at the Multicultural Resource Center (440-775-8802).</p> <p>Our commitment to inclusion has always been, and will continue to be, a fight for justice in the face of social, political, and economic injustice. Undocumented students in the United States have organized with passion, courage, and determination to dismantle barriers related to immigration status on campuses and beyond.</p> <p>I have been inspired by this movement. I honor and recognize the students who have chosen to bring their talents to 91ֱ��. We will do everything we can to support you as cherished members of our community, in keeping with our fundamental values as an institution.</p> <p>We recognize that this effort cannot be confined to our campus. In that spirit, we will continue to cooperate with the City of 91ֱ��, which passed a resolution in 2009 declaring its intention to respect the civil and human rights of all residents regardless of race, ethnicity or immigration status.</p> <p>We will closely monitor changes in relevant public policy and law. As circumstances develop, we will continue to collaborate with our partners in higher education who call for just national and local policies and seek refinements in our institutional policies and practices to reinforce our unwavering support for undocumented students and report these developments in a prompt and accessible manner.</p> <p>One week ago, I signed a “Statement in Support of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program and our Undocumented Immigrant Students.” The statement, drafted by David Oxtoby, president of Pomona College, has been signed by hundreds of college and university presidents from public and private colleges.</p> <p>It concludes with these words: “To our country’s leaders we say that DACA should be upheld, continued, and expanded. We are prepared to meet with you to present our case. This is both a moral imperative and a national necessity. America needs talent – and these students, who have been raised and educated in the United States, are already part of our national community. They represent what is best about America, and as scholars and leaders they are essential to the future. We call on our colleagues and other leaders across the business, civic, religious, and non-profit sectors to join with us in this urgent matter.”</p> <p>Marvin Krislov, President</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2016-12-01T12:00:00Z">Thu, 12/01/2016 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">President Marvin Krislov</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=2353">College Access</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2577">Office of the President</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">The Cox Administration Building, designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert.</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">Greg Pendolino</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> </main></body></html>