Earning - SAIL€¦ · Earning top internships CNU students gain valuable worn· experience at...
Transcript of Earning - SAIL€¦ · Earning top internships CNU students gain valuable worn· experience at...
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Earning top internships CNU students gain valuable worn· experience at NASA, Ferguson Enterfr1jses and across the globe.
Professor/ former student team up Theiff collaboratirf!e effort yields a book aimZ at giving urban stU:dents a !fetter grasp of Standard English.
At!rncting the bes!Amd
Changes in liberalle~ A new curriculum desig;rfed to exciC, chall~J!ge and prepare students began this_:fazl.
New Student Union opens Named in honor of William R. and Goldie R. David, the new Student Union provides a gathering place on campus for shopping, dining, studying and more.
Producing the best GNU's student-athletes succeed in and out of the r;lassroom.
CNU celebrates Jamestown 2007 Captain Christopher Newport takes center stage in a-year-long seriGS o[ events to commemorate the founding of Jamestown.
-- -
Faculty prof1les Alumni Society Alumni Society Board Class Notes Donor profile: Regina Raring
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In the NASA DEVELOP internship program, Matt Tisdale uses 30 software and NASA satellite data to create visualizations.
CNU students IIIII
InternshiPS University s reputation, location and programs help students gain valuable work experience
By Karen L. Gill
M att Tisdale wrote software for NASA to extract data and made presentations
on air quality that attracted the attention of state governors and other top-level officials.
Ashleigh Stacy helped develop a webcast that will give Ferguson Enterprises employees resources for learning a new computer program.
All in a day's work? Yes, but for these Christopher Newport University students, it's much more. Matt and Ashleigh are among the many students who
3 CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY Alumni Magazine
have taken advantage of the University's reputation, location and special programs to gain valuable work experience in internships and co-ops. Other students worked this past summer for organizations such as Northrop Grumman,Jefferson Lab, W.M. Jordan Company, the Virginia Beach Police Department, Colonial Williamsburg, Smithfield Packing, NATO in Belgium and with many others.
Ferguson Enterprises, the United States' largest distributor of plumbing and heating supplies headquartered in Newport News, began its first structured internship program in 2005 as a feeder program to full-time employment, according to Denise Francum, director of recruiting for Ferguson and a CNU Alumna.
"Internships are a tremendous opportunity for us to find out whether the students are a good fit for us at Ferguson, and more importantly, for them to see if we're a good fit for them," Ms. Francum said.
This past summer, she worked with 140 colleges and universities across the United States to help find the 100 interns that were hired to work in 30 different locations. CNU students stood out for their energy level, enthusiasm and excitement, she said.
"CNU students have a very strong work ethic," Ms. Francum said. "At Ferguson, we work long, hard hours, but we have fun doing it. It's a great, fun place to work. We 're looking for folks who have that mentality, and we have found them at CNU."
Students work 10-12 weeks in a sales management internship that includes one week in each department, including shipping/ receiving, outside sales, operations, counter sales, and customer service.
"We shadowed everyone under the sun: drivers, inside and outside sales, operations, showroom, credit," said Ashleigh, who plans to graduate from CNU in May 2007
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GNU students who recently completed
internships at Ferguson Enterprises
include, from left front, Laurie Huebner, Ashleigh Stacy,
Jessica Medlen, George Jones and •
Christina Martin • (at far right).
with a Bachelor of Arts in political science. ''I'm not a business major, so I had no idea that so many people went into a business. It gave us the opportunity to see individual processes, who does what at each level and how each person's work affects the others."
The students also completed team-building exercises and individual final projects, which they present to the company's management. Ashleigh's project involved developing ideas for easing the rollout of a new computer program and helping users learn the
Ashleigh Stacy
program and exchange ideas. "I never completed such a big
project on my own before," Ashleigh said. "That was a good experience if I ever have to do it when I'm in the workforce. Next time, I will break it down into smaller parts and ask for help sooner."
In most cases, the internship leads to a full-time job offer. Of
the 20 students who interned with Ferguson in 2005, 16 were offered jobs, Ms. Francum said. The internship provides an opportunity for students to travel and to be part of a fast-growing company that promotes from within based on performance.
"We're working on how to fasttrack these folks, " she said. "We want people looking for a career. We're looking for someone dedicated to Ferguson and in it for the long-term," said Ms. Francum, who started with Ferguson as a finance trainee 20 years ago.
CNU students were nominated and screened before being referred to Ferguson, where they underwent assessments and interviews before being selected for the internship.
"CNU did a great job of screening candidates, and they sent us their best and brightest," Ms. Francum said. "The caliber of people that they sent us was fantastic. "
CNU students have exceptional reputations and are in high demand with prospective employers, both before and after graduation.
"We can't fill all the opportunities we have," said Dr. David Doughty, chair of the Department of Physics, Computer Science and Engineering. "Most students in their junior year are working at whatever level they feel comfortable with while taking classes."
Because of the students ' reputations for excellence and the University's proximity to NASA Langley Research Center, a technology laboratory in Hampton, they have an inside track to NASA
internships. "It's like a slam dunk for our stu
dents to get NASA internships," Dr. Doughty said. "Our department does a first-rate job of preparing students for cutting-edge jobs in technology fields ."
NASA internships were selected in February by The Wall Street Journal as one of the best programs in the nation at attracting the attention of employers. "High-tech employers frequently cited a government agency- the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Langley Research Center in Virginia- as producing some of the nation's finest engineers," the article said.
These NASA internships include LARSS, the Langley Aerospace Research Summer Scholars program, and DEVELOP, a training ground for earth science research. DEVELOP employs students of all educational levels who work with advisors on projects of public concern doing research and making presentations, according to Jonathan Gleason, who started as a CNU intern in the program and is now co-director of the DEVELOP program. They employ students from a wide variety of backgrounds, but focus on students who study the physical sciences.
Students work flexible hours around their class schedules and are paid about $10-$15 an hour, according to their educational level , Mr. Gleason said. They also can use the experience for college credit as independent study projects.
Matt Tisdale, who graduated from CNU in May with a Bachelor
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY 4
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of Science in Computer Engineering, gained high-level technology experience and skills with NASA's DEVELOP program, which he entered in fall 2002 and has worked with every spring, fall and summer since then.
Last spring, as a team leader in the Tennessee Air Quality program, he worked with advisors and students to develop goals, schedules and task lists for the project. The internship recently paid off for Matt. In October, he began working in the Norfolk office of Booz Allen Hamilton, a global strategy and technology consulting firm that was named one of Fortune magazine's "The 100 Best Companies to Work For" in 2006.
"It helped me in my career search because the internship was a real-world experience," Matt said. "They give you a problem and you have to come to a solution with a team and then formulate a plan to execute it."
Computer science majors at CNU also have an advantage in being selected for the co-op offered by Northrop Grumman's IT Solutions, said Bill Cash, human resources coordinator.
This co-op, which is more formal and structured than an internship, is a two-year program in which students complete six-month rotations through various units, including database administration, telecom and network analysis, planning and communication and financial software.
"We try to expose them to the entire operation," Mr. Cash said. "Students get practical work experience, get paid and can determine what department they would like to work in and whether they are a good fit for the corporation."
Seventy-five percent of co-op students become full-time Northrop Grumman employees, he said.
Internships and co-ops are extremely important for college students, said Lisa Burris, director of CNU's Office of Career
For more information
about internships, contact Lisa
Burris, director of the Office
of Career Development, (757) 594-8887,
Development, and students without internship experience might have trouble getting a foot in the door of companies. Employers are realizing not only the costeffectiveness of hiring interns who already are trained, but also the importance of teamwork and people skills, which are not easily discernible.
"Through the internship, employers can get a window into the person's personality," Ms. Burris said. "They can see their work ethic and people skills over a few months that they can't see during an hour-long interview. A lot of employers are using internships as a hiring tool."
The Office of Career and Counseling Services recently divided into two offices: the Office of Career Development and the Center for Counseling, Coaching and Consulting. The Office of Career Development has moved into the David Student Union. The Office of Career Development helps students find internships through eCampusRecruiter, an online database where students and Alumni can view opportunities and post resumes for about 2,000 employers.
ECampusRecruiter users have to register to post resumes, which are critiqued by Career Development staff to ensure that students format the resume to match their backgrounds, list skills and objectives and market themselves well. Students who need more assistance are asked to attend workshops and appointments with Career
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Development staff. Before they post a resume,
Ms. Burris encourages students to research careers and options in their majors to help them determine what jobs they might enjoy. And she encourages Alumni to become involved with Alumni Connections, a program that gives them a chance to discuss their jobs with students in informational interviews, so students find out what the job is like day to day.
"Once they get an internship, they might land in that career," she said. "So it is important that the internship is a good match for their interests and career goals."
Likewise, staff members evaluate and screen the internships that are offered to students to make sure that students' experiences will be beneficial and successful. Ms. Burris and the staff meet with employers offering new internships to ensure that tasks relate to students' majors. She asks employers about portions of time spent on each task, number of hours to be worked per week, schedules, training and supervision.
Employers realize that a well-structured internship benefits the student, as well as the employer, Ms. Burris said. "I often ask them to think back to when they were a college student and how they would have wanted their internship structured," she said. Students are encouraged to give feedback on the internship to the Office of Career Development and the employer.
Services from the Office of Career Development are not only available to current students, but to CNU Alumni as well.
"A CNU student could graduate, and 10 years later find themselves changingjobs," Ms. Burris said. "They can post their resume, and we'll assist them. Alumni receive free services for life. We encourage CNU students and alumni to contact us to learn about the careerrelated services available." IIA
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CNU professor, former student write book on teaching Standard English in urban schools
By Alumni Magazine Staff
" D r. Rebecca S. Wheeler is becoming one of the most important professional voic
es in language instruction. Her work centers on reducing the achievement gap in dialectically diverse classrooms," wrote Kenneth Lindblom, editor of the English Journal in the May 2005 issue.
Dr. Wheeler, associate professor of English Language and Literacy at Christopher Newport University, has brought a unique perspective and scholarly authority to teacher education and public school classrooms nationwide, where she consults on teaching Standard English in minority classrooms. She is a charter literacy consultant for the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) - the national professional organization for teachers- and a respected consultant throughout the United States. Dr. Wheeler's most noted work on a new language instruction technique called "code-switching" has appeared in a variety of venues.
She inspired her former CNU student Rachel Swords, a secondand third-grade teacher at Newsome Park Elementary School in Newport News, to join her in co-authoring their book, "CodeSwitching: Teaching Standard English in Urban Classrooms." The book, released this past
Newport News teacher Rachel Swords, left, and her former GNU professor Dr. Rebecca Wheeler, right, promote a new concept in teaching students how to use Standard English.
spring, shows teachers how to build on the linguistic knowledge that children bring to school in order to add Standard English.
Dr. Wheeler explains that when minority students write school essays, patterns from their vernacular language crop up in their writing. When they use this informal English (for example "The Earth revolve around the sun" or "Mama walk to the store on Tuesdays") in their class papers, teachers often label it "incorrect" English.
According to Dr. Wheeler, the underlying assumption is that these children do not understand some of the basic grammar rules of the English language -such as making subjects and verbs agree.
But 40 years of research in linguistics have shown that these students are correctly using language patterns of their homes and their communities and incorporating them in the classroom.
Dr. Wheeler's "code-switching" technique allows teachers to show students how to recognize the grammatical differences between home speech and school speech so that they can choose the language pattern most appropriate to different situations.
Mrs. Swords had been teaching for about three years when she started studying for her Master of Arts in Teaching degree in 2001 and learned about code-switching in Dr. Wheeler's class.
Mrs. Swords "decided to try Dr. Wheeler's method because traditional methods were not working. I was looking for an alternative to helping my students improve their reading and writing abilities."
Once her students were told they weren't making "mistakes" but were simply using a different style that was more conducive to an informal situation, there was a marked change in their performance and their attitudes.
"Students were identifying patterns in language and comparing and contrasting home and school speech," she said.
Test results for her students improved substantially, and minority students have equaled their white peers in reading and writing and have outperformed them in math and science, she said.
As Dr. Wheeler and Mrs. Swords are working with other teachers and scholars on supplemental material to accompany the book, Mrs. Swords gratefully acknowledges Dr. Wheeler's support throughout the project. Dr. Wheeler credits much of her success to the nurturing atmosphere at CNU. "From the Department of English to the Dean of Liberal Arts, the Provost's office to the teacher education departmenteveryone welcomed my research." IAI
"Code-Switching" provides teachers with step-by-step instructions and numerous code-switching charts that can be reproduced for class-room use. It is available by calling (877) 369-6283 or (800) 369-6283,
~
e-mailing Dr. Wheeler directly at [email protected] or ordering online at www.ncte.org. For more information, see faculty.users.cnu.edu/rwheeler/ or http:/ /www.ncte.org/profdev I onsite/ consultants/wheeler
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY 6
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Kristina Neighbour chose to attend GNU in part because the merit scholarship she received included funds to study abroad.
By Jane S. Hill
As the daughter of a Foreign Service officer, Kristina Neighbour grew up in
exotic places that most children can't locate on a map. After a summer job at the State Department in Washington, D.C., Kristinajoined this fall's freshman class at Christopher Newport University, where she plans to major in political science and international relations. It's another step toward her dream: a career in the Foreign Service.
Her experiences, combined with a near-perfect CPA at a private high school in Northern Virginia and top percentile SAT scores, make Kristina a college recruiter's dream. She chose CNU over other institutions, she said, because she was invited to join the President's Leadership Program and received a merit scholarship that includes funds to study abroad. She also liked what she saw.
"I visited almost every in-state school, but I felt at home at CNU,"
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Kristina said. "I thought, 'I'll be able to shine there.' " Her scholarship was made possible as part of a $5 million gift to the University from the Smithfield-Luter Foundation last year- the largest single donation in CNU's history. The University is matching $1 million of the gift to provide academic leadership scholarships, in which students receive $10,000 over four years- $2,000 each year- plus an additional $2,000 to study abroad. The first three of the 48 recipients, including Kristina, arrived this fall.
"The availability of scholarships has definitely made a difference in our ability to recruit top students," said Patty Cavender, dean of admissions. "This year's scholars have an average SAT of 1325 and an average CPA of 3.9, scores you'd find at top schools in the country."
Thanks to the generosity of Sarah Forbes, a well-known Newport News physician, eight incoming freshmen received the first-ever CNU Endowed Merit Scholarships. Dr. Forbes has com-
GNU President Paul Trible thanks Newport News physician Dr. Sarah Forbes, right, for her
$1 million gift for scholarships.
mitted $1 million to CNU, which will be used to match other gifts up to another $1 million, potentially bringing the endowment for merit scholarships to $2 million.
"Dr. Forbes is a trailblazer," said Lucy Latchum, CNU director of planned giving and scholarships. "She went to medical school when few women did, and now she sees the University as having a strong economic and cultural impact on this community and wants to be a part of it."
Dr. Forbes also personally knows what a scholarship can mean to a family. She graduated from the University of Rochester, N.Y, in the 1950s. Her mother, a schoolteacher, saved to pay much of her tuition, and academic scholarships came later.
"What God has enabled me to achieve is not enough if I don't share it," said Dr. Forbes, explaining her generosity toward CNU. Giving money for scholarships "will enable others to do likewise when they succeed."
The first company to accept the match challenge was Newport News Shipbuilding Employees Credit Union, which in April 2005 contributed $25,000, matched dollar for dollar. The credit union stipulated that preference for the NNSECU scholarship be given to students who not only meet the merit achievement criteria but also are matriculating from Virginia high schools in the greater Hampton Roads area.
CNU President Paul Trible believes that a dynamic campus environment thrives with the best and the brightest students, Ms. Latchum said. However, as the youngest public university in Virginia, CNU isjustjoining the race to build up scholarship funds.
The match challenge is a good way to shore up funds quickly, Ms. Latchum said. It also allows Alumni and friends to "exercise the most powerful philanthropy because it touches so many lives," she said. /Aj
Making a difference How to establish a scholarship fund
T here are numerous ways to establish a scholarship at
Christopher Newport University. Many donors choose to give an outright, one-time gift to establish an endowed fund, while others make a multi-year pledge to give specific amounts each year until the minimum endowed level of $25,000 is attained.
Endowed funds are not disbursed. The CNU Educational Foundation invests the funds and disburses the fund's earnings as scholarship awards to CNU students. The foundation's policy is to invest the endowed funds for growth and income, disbursing 5 percent of the endowed fund's market value each year and reinvesting excess earnings to provide a hedge against inflation in future years. This ensures that scholarship funds will grow.
Still other donors wish to have scholarship awards begin right away, although the minimum endowed level has not been reached. For example, a recent donor wished to establish an endowed fund of $25,000. He pledged $25,000 over a five-year period, committing to a gift of $6,000 each year. He instructed that $1,000 be given each year as an annual scholarship award and that $5,000 be set aside in a fund to build his endowment. At the end of five years, he will anain his goal of a $25,000 endowed fund, and five students already will have benefited from an annual award of$1,000.
For additional information on establishing a named endowment fund and scholarship giving at CNU, contact Lucy Latchum, director of major and planned giving, at (757) 594-7702 or [email protected]
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSI1Y 8
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DR. ROBERT DUREL Professor Emeriti of Sociology, Social Work and Anthropology
Dr. Robert Durel retired last May to take a path he didn't take
40 years ago when he diverged from studying for the priesthood to becoming a sociologist. For 35 of those years, he was considered a godsend at Christopher Newport University.
He was devoted to teaching. To help students garner greater perspective on society, Dr. Durel challenged students' life experiences and fostered their fresh ideas. He said, "My fondest memories are always of interacting with students, introducing them to new ideas and watching their personal growth."
Dr. Durel grew to be an influential leader at CNU. He was dean of the School of Social Sciences and Professional Studies from 1982 to 1989. He received a Fulbright Scholarship and taught in Nigeria, living in an Islamic community.
DR. ROBERT SAUNDERS Professor Emeriti of History
Dr. Robert Saunders admits he is an "archive rat" when searching
historical documents for research and writing projects. Following a 30-year career at Christopher Newport University, during which
he published a book on Woodrow Wilson, Dr. Saunders has indulged his passion for history. Since retiring in 2000, he revised and published his teaching notes on the American presidency, publishing "Power, the Presidency and the Preamble" in 2002.
In addition to his research and writing, Dr. Saunders keeps active professionally by consulting for Teaching American History grants, teaching seminars, and giving speeches. He has been invited to speak at the 150th anniversary of Woodrow Wilson's birthday for the Jefferson Society in the Rotunda at the University of Virginia in November.
Dr. Saunders muses about the camaraderie with colleagues, Dr. Mario Mazzarella, Professor Tim Morgan and Dr. Theodora Bostick,
9 CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY Alumni Magazine
Returning with n ew insights on education, he served as president of the Faculty Senate for two terms. "I have pleasant memories of working with colleagues - the discussions and debates , making sure we didn't lose sight that our first goal is to teaching," he said. "It was a very good 35 years."
Education remains at the forefront of his new career. In 2003, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond ordained Dr. Durel as a permanent deacon and appointed him to the Parish of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Virginia Beach. Deacon Durel said, "Delivering a 10-minute homily has proven most challenging. As a professor, my lectures were 50 minutes!"
His wife, Dr. Arlene Stepnick, retired chair of nursing at CNU, shares his desire to travel, but both are amazed that "retired life" is so full! Mil
over the years that they formed the nucleus of the department. He also remembers with great satisfaction the traditional and many non-traditional students he taught at CNU. "They were very appreciative," he said. He often runs in to graduates of the CNU History Department who are teaching or doing other important work across Virginia, he said.
During his tenure, he received two Fulbright scholar teaching appointments , one in Singapore for 1980-81 and one in Hong Kong for 2000-01. He also was a visiting professor in 1994 at Charles University- the oldest university in central Europe -in Prague , the Czech Republic. Dr. Saunders and his wife, Shirley, reside in Williamsburg where the "archive rat" is sometimes caught playing golf or tennis . .b..4
Faculty profiles by Andrea Evans
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DR. SHILADI1YA (RAJ) CHAUDHURY Associate Professor, Department of Physics, Computer Science and Engineering
T eleportation and warp drive are among the topics Dr. Raj
Chaudhury likes to explore in his Physics Unveiled: The Mystery and Magic class. Designed to introduce non-science majors to modern physics, the course allows him to boldly go where no Christopher Newport University professor has gone before by examining the plausibility of certain Star Trek phenomena in light of discoveries in 20th century physics.
Dr. Chaudhury, a physics education specialist, is in his second year at CNU. He received his bachelor's degree from Vassar College, master's and doctorate degrees from the University of California and post doctorate from Kansas State University. He joined CNU because he could have active support of his research as well as direct involvement
in reforming the curriculum. He is pleased with his decision to come to CNU and complimentary of colleagues.
"When I have a detailed research question, I know someone in my building has the expertise to help me out, " he said. "People here are extremely supportive of my research in science education with learning technologies."
Dr. Chaudhury brings passion to the arts as well as sciences. He teaches CNU's world music ensemble this fall. "It 's a unique opportunity that I wouldn't have at most other universities ," he said. "Here, the music department welcomed my interest. "
Enthusiastic about being able to share his acumen of vocal Indian music with a group of CNU music students, he said, "I really believe in CNU's vision to be an outstanding
DR. MICHELLE ERHARDT Assistant Professor and Chair, Department of Fine Art and Art History
Dr. Michelle Erhardt enrolled in a study-abroad program while a
senior at the University of Michigan. "Seeing Renaissance masterpieces in their original location and function in Florence had a profound effect on me ," she said. It solidified her decision to be an a rt historian , and she now encourages her students to "see the world. "
"There 's no substitute for travel abroad ," she said. "Experiencing the sights , sounds and smells of another culture is the most profound learning experience there is. "
Her first year at CNU also has been full of learning experiences. Dr. Erhardt relocated and started her new career in August 2005. Within months, she discovered she was pregnant and then she lost her
father, who had inspired her career. The following May, Dr. Erhardt became chair of the Department of Fine Art and Art History, and in July her first child was born.
"Through it all , my colleagues and students have been extremely supportive and wonderful ," she said. She revels in the University 's close community and is able to return that support in small classes, where she can offer students personal attention. "I never want them to feel like a number. We are here to help nurture and grow them as individuals and to create a greater appreciation for the arts across campus. "
Dr. Erhardt holds a Master of Arts degree in medieval art from George Washington University and a doctorate in Italian Renaissance art
liberal arts and sciences university because of these unique opportunities. " .HA
history from Indiana University. She is a specialist in Franciscan art of the 14th century.
Dr. Erhardt lives with her husband and daughter in Williamsburg. IIA
Faculty profiles by Andrea Evans
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY 10
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Invigorated cur began this tall Incoming freshmen chart a rigorous new road over the next four years By Jane S. Hill
The new course offerings were "designed
to excite their imaginations, challenge their intellect and prepare
them to be thoughtful citizens in a society
that desperately needs them."
- Dr. Douglas Gordon Dean of the CollRge of
Liberal Arts and Srienres
S tunning new buildings are the visible face of change at Christopher Newport
University, but equally dramatic, high-impact changes are happening inside the classrooms this fall.
As lead architect of the new curriculum, Dr. Douglas Gordon, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, has worked for four years to see it take
shape. He and a team of faculty and staff members carefully revamped the "liberal learning" requirements for the incom ing freshmen class, adding offerings "designed to excite their imaginations, challenge the ir intellect and prepare them to be thoughtfu l citizens in a society that desperately needs them," he said.
Among the features of the revised curriculum are First-Year Seminars that allow students to choose from an extensive menu of subjects, as varied as cinema or spirituality, Capt. John Smith or Beethoven. Working in small groups, they will explore the topic in depth whi le honing ski lls such as critical thinking, analytical reading, effective writing and speak-
ing, problem solving and research methods, Dr. Gordon said.
The Class of 2010 will be the first to take a heavier math load and a required foreign language. In addition, they must take one course in each of six broadly defined "areas of inquiry": Western Traditions; Global and Multicultural Perspectives; Investigating the Natural World; Identity, Institutions, and Societies; Creative Expressions; and Formal and Informal Reasoning. According to Dr. Gordon, under these ru les, no one will graduate, for example, without at least a familiarity with art- a necessary part of a liberal education.
Dr. Bobbye Bartels, assistant dean for Liberal Learning Studies, was responsible for mining appropriate course offerings in each area of inquiry.
"Once we had approval for
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....
the skeleton categories, we asked faculty to propose ideas that met the objectives," said Dr. Bartels. Some existing courses fit neatly into the new areas of inquiry; others were created. Science faculty members, for example, came up with course content, including a lab component for each, that explores "everyday science" in fields such as ecology or medicine and health, Dr. Bartels said. In the past, students had to take two courses in the same science subject. Now, they can tackle any two, from astronomy to zoology.
Students in the pioneering Class of 2010 will become not only proficient in their individual majors but also versed in another field of interest. Under the new requirements, students must take two courses in a single field unrelated to their major, including one upper-level course in their secondary field.
Hypothetically, a theater major will find herself investigating the Sociology of Aging (Soc. 305), or a Spanish major will examine Money and Banking (Econ 301).
The decision to reexamine the curriculum was prompted by "an increasingly able student body," Dr. Gordon said. Entrance requirements at CNU have become more competitive, therefore students needed a curriculum to provide greater breadth and challenge.
To develop an appropriate curriculum for the 21st century, the task force looked to other colleges nationwide that "actively promote liberal learning," Dr. Gordon said. "This is the first wholesale change in the general education requirement since we were a colony of the College of William and Mary in 1960-61," he said. "We wanted to understand where we might benefit from what others have done."
Though the team will have to wait
years to evaluate officially the overall success of the curriculum changes, Dr. Gordon is convinced the results will be profound. He has become expert, almost evangelical, at explaining the virtues of a liberal arts education. He recognizes that many parents focus on a "pragmatic career path" for their child rather than a strong liberal arts foundation, but he's passionate and persuasive about its lifelong value.
"Liberal learning is designed to train students to solve problems and to make a difference in their community, which is characteristic of a democratic society," he says. "It's tied in its origins to a Latin term meaning 'free.' In a world that cries out for responsible leadership, we feel it's important to supply leaders who know history, philosophy and the ideals that are embedded in Western culture, in the Bill of Rights. That's tallorder stuff. These are the courses that will shape lives. It sounds noble, but I believe it." •
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The Ia d e n1on The new heartbeat o campus lite~-Continuing CNU~ tradition ofjvv&ting in students
A cademics and a strong physical presence speak volumes about the charac
ter of a university," said Christopher Newport University's Executive Vice President William L. Brauer. "At CNU, we see a powerful onnecqon between the two. For example, we think in terms of
the Library representing the mind, The Freeman Sports and Convocation Center representing the body, and the Ferguson Center for the Arts representing the soul. If that is. true, then the new Student Union surely represents the heart because
it says a lot about who we are as a campus community and who we serve. Quite appropriately, the building sits literally at the 'heart of campus."
Designed by DMJM Architects and Engineers in Arlington, the David Student Union, which was officially opened and dedicated by
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President Paul Trible on Sept. 9, features stately NeoGeorgian-style architecture with white columns, keysto~es above the windows, arched walkways, a colonnade, and a three-story atrium that creates a "street" that bisects the structure, creating the impression of
two buildings. The -street" ts a main gathering place as well as an indoor thoroughfare continuing pedestrian access from York River Residence H all to the rest of the campus. Other elements include a grand staircase, four pedestrian bridges that cross the "street" at the
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5.
two upper levels, and an outdoor dining patio. Unique sun-diffusing skylights crown the third-floor landing, spotlighting the grand staircase.
The David Student Union's efficiency, style, beauty and attention to detail perfectly complement its functionality. All three floors have student "hubs" for studying, reading, researching or computing with wireless access, and the layout facilitates smooth traffic flow and easy navigation. At every turn something draws the eye: doors recessed into hallway walls in a half-diamond pattern, green views of the campus' Great Lawn from tall windows, the interplay of tile and glossy wood grains.
Architectural appeal and a bold mix of textures and colors, such as burnished cherry wood and hues of gold and blue, define the building's interior and reflect the unique vision of President Trible and his wife, Rosemary, who were actively involved in the design of the building and in approving interior finish selections. "As a team, they have an incomparable sense of design, quality and beauty, as well as an appreciation for the significance of these spaces and their impact on people. The Tribles were able to create special places that will nurture and promote a sense of community," Mr. Brauer said.
The David Student Union continues the University's tradition of investing in students through providing updated, comfortable amenities. And though the campus has expanded, it has remained true to its goal: to provide small classes that are the hallmark of a private liberal arts education with facilities that few institutions can rival.
"The building reflects what CNU has become, which is a University serving a vibrant, traditional and largely residential student body," said Mr. Brauer.
Tasty choices Food vendors and residential din
ing occupy the first floor and
15 CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY Alumni Magazine
What's in the new Student Union? • Formal and informal dining
options • Two-story CNU Bookstore • Full-service post office • Digital color copy center • Grand ballroom • Meeting and conference rooms • Student organization offices and
the student newspaper • Offices for career development,
multicultural affairs, international studies and academic advising
• Game and TV rooms • Study areas • Computer terminals and wireless
Internet connection
represent groundbreaking offerings for CNU students. The dining area serves the campus' 3,000 resident students and is available to day students, faculty and staff as well. Food vendors include Chick-fil-A, Stone Willy's Pizza, a dessert shop called "Sweet Street," and "Discovery Bistro," a gourmet sandwich shop. The residential dining experience offers a continuous breakfast bar, Mongolian barbecue, a brick oven, a dessert venue, and many other food and beverage stations. Layout is spacious, choices are diverse and the hours have been expanded to cater to students' schedules.
This isn't your mom and dad's college cafeteria. Students can enjoy their meals in cozy alcoves or open areas, on the outdoor patio, or in an upscale dining room accented with white table linens and crackling fireplaces reserved for special occasions. A contemporary, comfortable ambience and a wide selection of fresh, healthy foods are highlights of the Student Union dining area- an institutional feel is not.
Not just a Bookstore Like CNU dining, the two-story
CNU Bookstore has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis from its former location in the old Student Center, both in size and retail strat-
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egy. Pete Romando, director of bookstore operations, studied the demographics of the student population and designed the new space to offer a wider range of services and products.
According to Mr. Romando, students enjoy full mail and shipping services and benefit from a new computer center offering educationally discounted products; iPods, software and laptops are available at prices lower than those of major competitors. From the upscale convenience store he calls "our high-end 7-Eleven" to the cosmetics counter with CNU's own brand of makeup, Mr. Romando has crafted a retail space that is unique, aesthetically beguiling and molded to fit CNU's spirited image.
Work from local artists - pottery, paintings, handmade jewelry- is on consignment through a local artists' consortium and is beautifully displayed throughout the store. Mr. Romando is particularly proud of the new fine arts section offering quality art supplies previously only available in Norfolk or Richmond. Best of all, pricing is tiered to fit students' budgets. "Pricing is very affordable for the average student," he said. "There is something for everyone."
The textbook space is also highly adaptable. During book rushes, staff members can move cash registers wherever they are needed. The system is wireless, and everything is
A look at the David Student Union l: The spacious dining room 's
special features include a Mongolian barbecue and brick oven.
2: Soaring arches define the Student Union's "main street."
3: Taking a cue from the Ferguson Center for the Arts, a colonnade frames the front walkway.
4: A grand staircase leads to the second-story ballroom.
5: The new two-story CNU Bookstore features adaptable textbook space.
6: The unique retail space of the
on wheels. During quieter times of the year, the textbook area can be used for meetings, book signings or even children's readings.
What's up? Ascending the grand staircase to
the second floor, one enters a spacious staging area for events leading to five large satellite meeting rooms equipped with state-of-theart audiovisual capabilities. Nearby, the light-filled boardroom with its balcony overlooks the Great Lawn and campus. The ballroom undoubtedly ranks as the most dramatic second-floor space. It achieves the "wow" factor for two reasons: it is one of the University's most versatile spaces, and arguably its most beautiful. Two tiers of rectangular windows, soaring 24-foot ceilings and sky-blue walls set a grand stage for such occasions as the Captain's Ball and weekend events. The ballroom can accommodate up to 1,000 people.
The Association of College Unions International likens the Student Union to the "living room" of the campus. Nowhere is that better demonstrated than on the second floor of the David Student Union. Here students pick up their mail and spend quality down time in the TV lounge, enjoying PlayStation or X-Box tournaments in a specially designed room, playing pool or just unwinding in a variety of relaxed settings. Kim Roeder,
Bookstore features a computer center, convenience store, makeup counter and more.
7: The Union's stately Neo-Georgianstyle architecture complements CNU's other new construction.
8: A second-story balcony overlooks the campus' Great Lawn.
9: The "street" is a main gathering place as well as an indoor thoroughfare that connects pedestrian traffic to the surrounding residence halls.
10: Dining options include Chickfil-A, as well as dessert and coffee shops.
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY
11\
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director of student activities, embraces the "living room" premise and adds that one of the smartest decisions made regarding the Student Union was to house all the mailboxes there, requiring students to "de-cocoon" from residence life and enter a vibrant social setting.
"We want people to come into the building," Mrs. Roeder said. "This is the living room where you feel comfortable and meet your friends from across campus, where you get something to eat and study a little bit, where you can watch TV. It's the place where students feel really comfortable. You have to get them in the building, and one of the ways to do that is through their mailboxes."
Mrs. Roeder noted that face-toface interaction has decreased significantly for students because of instant messaging, cell phones and iPods. "The Student Union will help them connect and develop those friendships and connections to keep them in college. Having a building with the sole purpose of bringing students together is really critical in today's society."
No more runaround To further that mission and to
eliminate the "campus runaround," the third floor was designed to cluster the offices that are essential to student life. Academic Advising, Career Development, Student Life and Services, judicial offices, and 35 eagerly awaited spaces occupied by student clubs and organizations are housed on the third floor.
"We're going from nine to more than 30 offices, so it's a tremendous increase in the number available to our student groups," Mrs. Roeder said. She is also thrilled about the new student organization resource center, which offers students tools and resources to create fliers, brochures and posters. Available to all organizations, the center also has a copier and a computer with graphic design software. "The organizations were on their own
before," Mrs. Roeder said, "So this will be a big improvement for them. The center will be maintained by our office, and there 's funding to support it. We really hope the groups will take advantage of it."
Lisa Burris, director of the Office of Career Development, cites the benefit of being neighbors with the Office of Academic Advising. "Often when students are torn about a major, they' ll leave Academic Advising with the intention of stopping by career services, but they may not always do so. Now, advising is right next door, and they'll be able to help the students get to us or students can leave here and make an appointment with advising."
The David Student Union also will help nurture relationships between CNU and area employers through the Office of Career Development's heightened visibility and new interview rooms with online access. "The fact that we have interview rooms is an expectation of the employers, and it's a nice, private environment for students to meet with them," said Ms. Burris.
Donna Eddleman, dean of students, said that the new Student Union will enhance student services. "It's about providing better quality services as well as opportunities for our students, and it's about the synergy that's created and the ideas that will be cultivated as a result of people being collocated. And that, for me, is really exciting."
"I think we're in for some very happy, excited students," said Dean Eddleman. "They're going to feel really good that they're here, and feel valued and important. If that message extends beyond this community into their larger work and home communities, I think it will certainly have an impact on what people are saying about Christopher Newport University." All
17 CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY Alumni Magazine
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GNU Athletic Director C.J. Woollum emphasizes the University's commitment to developing all areas of student-athletes' lives.
GNU's student-athletes succeed in and out of the classroom By Roopa Swaminathan
Since returning to Christopher Newport University in 1984 as head basketball and golf
coach, CJ. Woollum has played a key role in some amazing transformations in the school's athletic department. Mr. Woollum was an assistant basketball coach at CNU in the 1970s before leaving for Marshall University.
"The last 10 years have been extraordinary for the athletic department as well as the entire University," said Mr. Woollum, now CNU's director of Athletics. "We now have some of the finest facilities in the nation in Division III, we've added a successful football program, and our teams are competing at a national level on a consistent basis."
And Mr. Woollum recognizes that in addition to succeeding on
the fields and courts, CNU athletes also must succeed in the classrooms. CNU continually renews the emphasis on developing all areas of the student-athlete's life.
"Athletes are required to maintain high standards, and our academic support program has grown tremendously," Mr. Woollum continued. "All athletes have mentors at their disposal, and coaches receive continuous progress reports on their athletes. Our coaches recruit fantastic young men and women, and while they are here, they are required to work hard in every aspect of their lives."
The hard work pays off, as CNU athletes excel in the classrooms and on the playing fields and courts. Here are just a few graduates who are truly CNU athletic department success stories.
Casey Taylor, track
"C asey Taylor was one of the very best to ever graduate from our department," Mr.
Woollum said. "Her achievements academically and athletically boggle the mind, and she is a special young lady and a great friend."
While track was always her main event, Ms. Taylor was gifted in other athletic areas as well. She played basketball and volleyball in
Casey Taylor excelled in athletics and academics as a student at GNU.
high school, and while she was wooed by several Division I programs, she opted for CNU because of the emphasis on her education. "I knew Christopher Newport had high expectations from me, not just as an athlete but also as a student," Ms. Taylor said. "I was expected to be a positive role model. Of course I dreamed about competing in the Olympics and winning gold medals, but I wanted to pursue my education more than athletics."
Her career at CNU was extraordinary, to say the least. She became a two-time National Champion, winning the triple jump in 1999 and the longjump in 2000. From 1998 to 2000, she was named All-American 19 times, and selected regional athlete of the year several times.
While dominating in her track events, she was also successful in the classroom. Ms. Taylor earned academic All-American honors her junior and senior year, was on the Dean's List and a CNU Presidential Scholar all four years,
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY 18
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and was also in the Honors Program. She was inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa, a national leadership honor society, and served as the group's president her senior year. She was also inducted into Sigma Tau Delta, an English honor society.
She graduated with honors with a major in English and a minor in women's and gender studies. She also earned an NCAA post-graduate scholarship, the first-ever for a CNU student. She has since earned her second master's degree in education at the University of San Francisco. She is now passionately involved in a literacy program for young children in California and looks forward to being in the classroom as a teacher in the near future. She also hopes to someday return to Virginia.
"I want to be a more active Alum," Ms. Taylor said. "It's hard to do that living on the opposite coast. I want to see C U football and go tailgating and be a part of homecoming."
"Talking about CNU is one of my favorite pastimes," Ms. Taylor continued. "Once people meet me, they know all about Christopher Newport University. The relationships I made with my professors, particularly with Dr. Douglas Gordon and Dr. Virginia Purtle, have become lifelong friendships. CNU is where I developed my passions and interests and where I began growing into the woman I am today."
Ms. Taylor was inducted into the CNU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2005.
Jenny Nuttycombe, tennis and basketball
Jenny Nu ttycombe's love for sports was a given.
Her father was a very successful coach in the Newport
News Public Schools, her mother was a national AAU Olympic swimming champion, and her four brothers were all involved in sports as well.
Jenny Nuttycombe, left, is now GNU's director of Academic Support for Athletics.
"I got involved in sports because of my whole family," Ms. Nuttycombe said. "My brothers all competed in sports, and I watched how much they loved it. I spent time with my dad at all of his coaching events, starting when I was only 5 or 6. I also heard from my relatives and parents' friends about my mom. She would beat everyone in her swimming events."
Ms. Nuttycombe came to CNU as a student in 1984 and played both tennis and basketball. Her incredible run as a CNU tennis player saw her post a 35-11 singles record and a .761 winning percentage that still ranks fourth-best in the history of CNU women's tennis. She was also the Dixie Conference's singles champion at
19 CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY Alumni Magazine
#5 in 1984 and won again at the #3 spot in 1985.
Over the years, this notable athlete won many accolades, but she is most proud of being selected for the USA South's Anniversary Team as one of the best tennis players in the 25-year history of women's athletics.
Ms. Nuttycombe graduated with a bachelor's degree in history. She worked as a supervisor for circulation at the Daily Press and also coached tennis and basketball at Peninsula Catholic High School. She returned to her alma mater in 2001 as the head tennis coach and assistant basketball coach, and she was named director of Academic Support for Athletics in 2004, giving her the opportunity to place value not only on athletics but academics as well. "My biggest goal is to continue to work with the Academic Support Program and see that these athletes graduate."
What drives Jenny Nuttycombe? "I worked very hard to be the
best athlete I could be," Ms. Nuttycombe said. "I knew I had to work hard like my brothers did if I wanted to be as good as they were in their sports. I try to be like my dad in coaching. I want the athletes to feel as though I am not only their coach but a mentor as well."
"I want to be there for them in any way, shape or form," Ms. Nuttycombe continued. "I want them to be able to look back and say that I taught them not only the game but how to be an outstanding citizen and role model. I love all athletics and enjoy watching
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f
sports. Athletics is just instilled in me, and I love competing."
Her oldest brother, Ed, is the head track coach at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She aspires to reach the level of success her brother has had, noting that his teams have won more than 30 championships. She is heading in the right direction as her squads have posted a 39-15 overall mark and a .722 winning percentage over the past four seasons. She is now the top women's tennis coach in school history.
Ms. Nuttycombe was honored with the Coach of the Year Award in the USA South Athletic Conference in 2003 and last year led the Lady Captains to a 16-1 overall record and a 6-1 conference mark. Her team beat Methodist College to take the conference tournament title and earn its first regional ranking.
"The opportunity to coach and work at such an outstanding and growing university is just awesome," Ms. Nuttycombe said. "President Trible has done wonderful things with the university, and I am privileged to be a part of it. My school has really come a long way since I started here as a freshman."
Paul Babcock, basketball and track "I was a bit of an enigma because
there weren't many jocks playing basketball and running
track in the '60s who were also sociology majors," explained Paul Babcock, a graduate of Christopher Newport College, as it was then known.
Personal circumstances were the reasons he came to CNU. It's a decision he has never regretted.
Mr. Babcock's family had moved to the state of Washington, leaving him to fend for himself. The college and students rallied to help him, and he was introduced to -Professor Robert M. Usry, a confirmed bachelor who rented out
rooms in his house at a nominal price to deserving young students. The school also helped by obtaining work-study grants to ease his financial burdens.
"In basketball terms, we were young and developing then, and the school was relatively
Paul Babcock gives GNU credit for the success he's had in his career and life.
unknown," Mr. Babcock said. "Our successes and notoriety on the court and track gave us credibility and gave the school a lot of positive attention. We consistently beat the likes of james Madison and George Mason back then."
He also remembers that all Christopher Newport athletics, including basketball, had a shoestring budget in those days. That meant they traveled to various games in a beat-up old bus, which they nicknamed "Big Blue." They once had to push the bus after it stalled on the James River Bridge
at 3 a.m. returning from a road game.
Mter graduating, Mr. Babcock moved to Washington to be with his family. Even there, CNU continued to reach out to him. He received a call from The Arc of the Virginia Peninsula, a nonprofit organization that serves the disabled.
A CNU psychology professor had recommended Mr. Babcock for a position. He returned to Newport News after getting the job and has been there since. With more than 25 years of direct care and management experience in the field of developmental disabilities, Mr. Babcock is now senior vice president of the organization. His relationships from college still are fresh in his mind.
"We shared a great camaraderie, the coaches and athletes back then," Mr. Babcock said. "All the success in my life and career is a direct result of the wonderful people from Christopher Newport. Faculty members, fellow students, advisors and coaches all helped me. Whatever I am today is because of the family-like atmosphere that existed in the college. The values I gained helped kickstart my life and made me the success I am."
Mr. Babcock was inducted into the Christopher Newport University Athletic Hall of Fame last year. ~
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lYJee·t1Ilf; ·tllB GNU's Jamestown 2007 events help bring University's namesake to life By Karen L. Gill
A question for history buffs: Who commanded the settlers' voyage to Jamestown, Virginia?
Because many might incorrectly answer John Smith, Dr. Phillip Hamilton hopes thatJamestown 2007 events at Christopher Newport University will teach many more that the correct answer is the University's namesake.
Dr. Hamilton, associate professor of history and chair of CNU's Jamestown 2007 organizing committee, and his team have planned a year-long series of events to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first permanent English settlement in America.
As an official Virginia 2007 Community, CNU's events are part of the state-wide commemoration of Jamestown 2007 that is being coordinated by the JamestownYorktown Foundation.
1607-2007," was designed to educate scholars, students, Alumni and interested residents about the important events and legacies of the Jamestown colony.
"The goal is for those who attend to see how Jamestown and Christopher Newport fit into the bigger picture of the Age of Exploration," Dr. Hamilton said. "What were the expectations of the men who came to the New World and how were those expectations met or not met?"
The series kicked off on Oct. 4 with a discussion by leading historians of Virginia Indians of the Chesapeake Region. An exhibit at the Falk Gallery in the Ferguson Center for the Arts highlighted Virginia Indian artwork.
Upcoming on Jan. 25 is a portrayal of Thomas Jefferson by Clay Jenkinson, humanities scholar, author and the voice of Thomas Jefferson in the syndicated radio program "The Thomas Jefferson Hour."
Other events include the world premiere of an original play of historical fiction by TheaterCNU Professor Steven Breese, which will be presented March 30-April 7 at the Ferguson Center for the Arts. His play, "Actus Fidel" (Acts of Faith), was inspired by the life and times of Christopher Newport. It explores the era's triumphs and tragedies through the eyes and experiences of Captain
I ...)
p·ril11l "More than just an historical
re-enactment, 'Actus Fidel' addresses the maritime world of the 17th century, while resonating with contemporary ideas and dilemmas that face us in the 21st century," Professor Breese said.
To commemorate Jamestown 2007, the University also will sponsor a film series highlighting European-Indian relations during the age of colonization. The movie will be screened, then CNU faculty members will lead discussions highlighting contemporary attitudes, stereotypes and misunderstandings about American Indian culture in the period before the American Revolution.
"They will understand that this age was more complex than people realize," Dr. Hamilton said. 'Jamestown represents the beginning of democracy and an Anglocentric civilization in North America. But it was also an extraordinarily diverse civilization with different races and different cultures coming together to influence and shape things."
CNU also will host two major conferences on its campus over the next year that ~ll focus on the Jamestown colony <ild its impor-
tant legao· .. e...;.s_ . .. Aiil....-..,.,iolr-~-"'r
The CNU series, "Points of Contact and Culture:
Newport, a master of the Royal -~---..P·i-.,j~-""t~PZ .... .;.A.""" Navy who was responsible for the success of the English Jamestown,
expedition that landed on Jamestown Island in 1607.
Captain Newport also was in charge of the "box" that revealed the names of the members of the first Council in Virginia, of which he was one.
21 CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSI1Y Alumni Magazine
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Christopher Newport University's Jamestown 2007 events Please note: Events, dates and times are subject to change. Please visit http:/ /jamestoum2007.cnu.edu for
more updated information closer to event date or contact Dr. Phillip Hamilton, CNU Department of History, (757) 594-7251. To order tickets through the Ferguson Center for the Arts ticket office, go to
http://fergusoncenter.org or call (757) 594-8752.
Clay Jenkinson as
Thomas Jefferson, 7:30 p.m.,Jan. 25, 2007, Ferguson Center for the Arts Concert Hall. Tickets, $25-$35, through the Ferguson Center
for the Arts ticket office. Humanities scholar and
author Clay Jenkinson will present a Chautauqua-style evening in the persona of the United States' third president,
Thomas Jefferson.
An Evening with the
King's Singers, 7 p.m., Feb. 11, 2007,
Ferguson Center for the Arts Concert Hall. Tickets $27, $37, through the Ferguson Center for the Arts ticket office.
World famous for its ability to present
music from the 1200s to the 21st century, the six-member choral group will present a wide variety of English and British tunes, including music of the Elizabethan age, written at the time when English colonization efforts in the New World were beginning.
James McPherson
and David Hackett Fischer -
"Jamestown as a Pivotal
Moment (and at a Pivotal
Location) in American
History," 7 p.m., March 29, 2007, Ferguson Center for the Arts Music and Theatre Hall. Tickets $10 through the Ferguson Center for the Arts ticket office.
Two Pulitzer-Prize winning historians - David Hackett Fisher of Brandeis University and James McPherson ofPrinceton University (emeritus), who co-edited the
monograph series "Pivotal Moments in American History" for Oxford University Press- will explore not only how Jamestown represented a pivotal moment in America's past, but also how it fundamentally changed the course of global history.
Virginia Humanities
Conference, March 30-31, 2007. The Virginia Humanities
Conference will hold its annual conference at CNU with papers focusing on the theme 'Jamestown 2007 and the Invention of America: Reality and Fiction." For more information, contact George Hill ow, Department of Theater and Dance, [email protected], (757) 594-8897.
World premiere of "Actus
Fidei" (Acts of Faith), A New
Play with Music in Two Acts
by Steven Breese, March 30, April 1, 5, 6 and 7, 2007, Ferguson Center for the Arts Music and Theatre Hall.
The world premiere of a new play of historical fiction, "Actus Fidei," inspired by the life and times of the University's namesake, Captain Christopher Newport, will fire the imagination. The drama by TheaterCNU Professor Steven Breese explores the era's triumphs and tragedies through the eyes and experiences of Newport- a very unlikely maritime hero.
Peninsula Heritage
and Founders Tour, April2007 An all-day Peninsula-area bus
tour will take participants to the original Jamestown Settlement and other key 17th-century historical sites.
Children's Literature
Association,June 2007. The Children's Literature
Association will hold its national annual conference at CNU, with the theme "Anniversaries, Histories, and Colonialisms." For more information, contact Kara Keeling, Department of English, [email protected], (757) 594-7952.
William Shakespeare's
"The Tempest," October 2007, Ferguson Center for the Arts Concert Hall
William Shakespeare's final play, "The Tempest," is widely believed to be historically based upon the 1609 shipwreck of the Sea Venture, a vessel commanded by Captain Christopher Newport and headed toward Virginia with supplies as well as a new Deputy Governor, Sir Thomas Gates.
Film Series All films and discussions are free and shown at 7 p.m. in Gaines Theater.
• Nov. 20: "Black Robe" (1991). • March 27, 2007: "Pocahontas"
(1995). • April17, 2007: "Last of the
Mohicans" (1992). 1/;j
Dr. Phillip Hamilton, left, leads the historians' panel discussion that kicked off GNU's Jamestown 2007 series in October.
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY 22
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Homecoming 2007: Still in the blue!
The Alumni Society held its first-ever Homecoming post-game bash at the new Alumni House located at 220
Prince Drew. Alumni enjoyed live music, great food and beverages, and proudly displayed their CNU Spirit. The theme of Homecoming was "Is the BLUE still is YOU?" and the answer from Alumni was a roaring "YES!"
FUN!
Annual Meeting scheduled in May
The Alumni Society invites everyone to the Annual Meeting and Awards banquet on May 17. Expect an e-mail invitation to arrive in
the spring. If you have questions about membership or any events, or would like to
have a brochure mailed to your home, please contact Ashley Boyd , direc-
tor of Alumni Development, at ashley.boyd@cnu .edu.
Teamwork!
Program connects students, Alumni
0 nee again this fall, the Career Connections program addressed topics relevant to
students such as graduate school preparation, insurance, resume writing and interview skills. Workshops will also take place in the spring. Each session includes a panel presentation, question and answer session, doorprize drawings and refreshments for all students in attendance.
Friendships!
Help out in Your area
T he Alumni Society is seeking _volunteers to help us expand In to chapters across Virginia.
l!a<.&ea] lfarrel!, 2004 graduate, " leadtng the Richmond chaptec, and We are looking for Volunteers for Northern Virginia
and South IIarnpton Roads chapters. We plan to see each of you at events
around the Commonwealth throughout the Year.
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Coming back home
By Terri Haynie
"The wonderful opportunities I've had have come from my experiences
here at Christopher Newport University, and that's why I feel an overwhelming urge to give back. I'm so excited to be here, and hope I can reach out to other Alums and bring them back to CNU," said Ashley Boyd of her role as CNU's new director of Alumni Development.
Ms. Boyd's contagious enthusiasm and passion for CNU, coupled with her political interests and background, have provided her the perfect tools for continuing the growth of the Alumni Society. She led CNU's class of 2005 her junior year as president of the Student Government Association, and as a senior, she attended the College Leaders Program Class and participated in the Virginia Governor's Fellows Program. After graduation, she worked for two Virginia governors as a special assistant to the secretary of technology. "I really value public service, and that's why I love working here," she said.
"Our goal is to have at least 700 members of the Alumni Society before 2007, and we're confident that we can exceed that goal," Ms. Boyd said. Events such as homecoming and this fall's Alumni Society car raffle are opportunities to encourage membership and to discover how Alumni would like to focus
their volunteer efforts in addition to connecting with fellow Alumni and their alma mater, she said.
"We want to gather information so we can encourage people to come back and participate in our CNU community. We don't want them to come once and then disappear," says Ms. Boyd , who is not limiting her invitation for membership to Alumni in the immediate area.
CNU 's increasingly diverse student population in recent years has led to a high number of graduates outside of Hampton Roads- the reason for Ms. Boyd's most ambitious endeavor to date. "It's going to be our biggest challenge, but we are going to establish Alumni chapters across the state," she said.
A large map of Virginia hanging behind her desk denotes the
number of Alumni by 1 zip code. "We're hopi.Q.g
to regionalize our chapters so that we have one in Northern Virginia, Richmond, Martinsville -wherever we need them. It's a huge job, but I have faith that we can do it, as long as we just go out and ask."
Alumni Society members also enjoy the new tiered benefits structure offered
at four levels: Schooner, Susan Constant, Godspeed and Discovery. Perks range from discounts at the Bookstore and Ferguson Center for the Arts tickets to VIP parking. Ms. Boyd actively seeks partnerships with vendors. Discounts from realtors, insurance companies, hotels and car rental companies for Alumni Society members are currently available from the Schooner level and up.
Ms. Boyd is delighted to have returned "home" as Alumni director. "I was only away from CNU for a year, but it was longer than I wanted it to be. When I came back, I felt the spark of this campus and the excitement and energy we have. It's really genuine. We always say CNU is a great place to come home to, and I want to make sure Alumni remember what home is." II~
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY 26
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Board profiles by Roopa Swaminathan . . ...
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j)~ (JIRISTOPm~gNIWPORI
UNIVERSITY
SAVE THIS DATE Christopher Newport University Scholarship Classic and Auction
A golf tournament and auction to benefit the scholarship endowment at CNU
A c ,2007
James River Country Club
Play a round of golf at Newport News' premier coun try club and then enjoy dinner and dancing to Bill Deal's Rhondels. The highlight of the evening will be bidding on spectacular golf trips to Scotland, Pinehurst, Pebble Beach and tickets
to The Masters or exciting day trips and adventures around the region. Hosted by the Alumni Society to benefit the scholarship endowment at CNU, this is an event you won't want to miss!
Smart Ticket! The newly invigorated Alumni Society kicked
off the fall semester by raising money for scholarships and campus projects by raffiing
a brand-new Chevy HHR. Members sold tickets for $20 each or six for $100 for the cross-over vehicle that was detailed in silver and blue and generously donated by Patty and Mike Martin, dealer I owner of Dudley Martin Chevrolet in Manassas, Va.
To learn more about CNU's first-ever car raffie, including who the lucky winner was, go to http: / / raffle.cnu.edu/
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSI'IY 30
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31
CLASS NOTES
1977 Rose Hollomon was appointed senior vice president and director of training for TowneBank's Member Service in Suffolk. She has more than 15 years of experience in the banking industry.
1981 James S. Powell moved to Colorado in 2000. He is a tax attorney who specializes in federal tax controversy work. He has no children, but dogs (Samoyeds) with whom he skis in the winter and hikes in the mountains in the summer. He would love to hear from old classmates.
Jacqueline Carr was named the principal at Carrsville Elementary School in February 2006.
1982 Betty S. Walls is a real estate broker and has been serving the Peninsula, Williamsburg, Gloucester and surrounding areas for 23 years.
1987 Steve Kast was honored nationally for creating and implementing innovative ways to educate students. He is a finalist for the 2006 Cable's Leaders in Learning Awards sponsored by Cox Communications and Cable in the Classroom.
1988 Dianne G. Agricola earned her master's degree in education in 2004 with a 4.0 GPA.
1990 Alexander J. Stoops Jr. was elected to the Latta Town Council in December 2005 and graduated from the University of
Phoenix with a Master of Business Administration degree in May 2006.
Marlene J. Bidelman-Dye and her husband, Jamey Dye, announce the birth of their daughter, Maya Jamison Dye, in January 2006.
Jennifer (Lucas) Phillips and her husband, Charles Phillips Jr., recently moved closer to Atlanta and are enjoying their new home with their two boys, Charlie and Conner.
Annetta Moore was named Southampton High School's Teacher of the Year.
1991 Terry Crumble-Price and her husband Adrian Price, announce the birth of Arian ' Price on May 3, 2006, weighing 9 pounds, 11 ounces.
1992 James P. Mullen announces the birth of his first grandson on March 24, 2006.
Bruce Peachee joined the Virginia Living Museum as horticulture curator.
1993 Raymund Willis Jr. has been named 2006 Man of Tomorrow by Zeta Phi Beta Inc.
Rebecca Deaux received a Master of Arts degree in teaching and learningtechnical integration in the classroom.
Greg Mears is engaged to Kate Ritter, and they plan a September 2007 wedding.
1994 Samuel Sanders has been named the president of Mid-City Redevelopment Alliance, established in 1991.
1995 Ellen E. Edwards Howard married Brian M. Howard on Nov. 19, 2005.
David R. Hout Ph.D. recently began a NSRA Postdoctoral Fellowship. He was an FLAC carrier at the University of Kansas.
1996 Tina Connole Huneycutt and her husband, Scott Huneycutt, announce the birth of their first child , Kylie Marie, on July 6, 2006. She is a clinical recruiter with Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters.
Etta Brownley Taylor and her husband, David W. Taylor, announce the birth of their daughter, Lillian Mae, on June 23, 2004.
Norman Ridgway is pursuing a master's degree in christian education with a concentration in communications at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas.
Debra Lynne (Adair) Jenkins earned a Master of Science degree in systems management, information systems from Florida Tech in May 2005.
Angela Burris is working as the human resources manager for Brach's Confectior Inc. in Tennessee.
1998 Tommy R. Page and his wife, Katherine Grace Eion, announce the birth of a grandson, Trystan Aaron Page, on June 24, 2006.
Joy (Nelson) Vance graduated from Florida Institute of Technology with a Master of Science degree in management on May 17, 2006.
Kerry (O'Brien) Smith married James B. Smith Ill in 2005 He is a graduate of Old Dominion University with a degree in electri· cal engineering. They had their first child in April 2006.
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1999 Thad B. McDonald joined Kerr Environmental Science Corp. as a senior scientist.
Karla J. Keener and Justin R. Atkins were married on May 6, 2006, at New Covenant Church in Hampton. She received her graduate degree from Regent University School of Law and practices domestic relations and criminal defense law and is president of the Greater Peninsula Women 's Bar Association.
Catherine Kurchinski has been named a public relations associate at the Brickell & Partners public relations firm in Virginia Beach. Previously, she was the public relations manager for the Smithfield and Isle of Wight tourism office. She has a bachelor's degree in fine arts from CNU.
Jennifer Biel has joined the human resource services division of Goodman & Company LLP as a recruiter and human resource coordinator.
2000 Rudy Heinatz Ill was selected as the new administrator for Sanders
Retirement Community in Gloucester.
Amy Geabhart and Ralph Geabhart '98 announce the birth of their son, Luke Thomas.
Donnamarie Duffy Mandala and her husband, Michael J. Mandala , announce the birth of their daughter, Maggie Claire, on Sept. 29, 2005.
~ OlWSJQRillill)~1!JVPORT
UNIVERSITY
Nicole (Lyon) Crawford married Stephen Crawford on Sept. 21 , 2002. Their son, Ethan, was born on Feb. 16, 2005.
2001 Marissa (Cockrill) Fiorille announces the birth of her first child, Halaina Rochelle, on Aug. 25, 2005.
2002 Sarah Jean (Meyer) Womer married Jim Womer on May 20, 2006, and they reside in Alexandria.
Amanda (Volk) Stewart married Russell J. Stewart on June 11 , 2005, in Yorktown. She has started a new job at Scott & Stringfellow Inc., a brokerage firm , as a sales assistant and is studying for her Series 7 Financial license.
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Jeffery BristoW is engaged to Abigale
Burns, and they plan a June 2007
wedding.
Drewry Brown Jr. was promoted in february 2006 to the rani< of Captain in
the U.S. Army.
Rebecca (Hammack) A\\an and her husband, Scot \an Ross Allan, announce the birth of their first child, Sl<ye Lynn, on
July 13, 2005.
arad Elsass haS been appointed director of merchandise for Busch Gardens Europe. Prior to his new position, he was director of merchandise operations for SeaWorld
San Diego.
2003 Kevin George and Megan Byrd '05 were married on June 24, 2006.
Joshua Birch and Lindsay Sheppard '02 were married on July 9, 2006.
Brad Brewer is working as assistant to
President Paul Trible at GNU. Robyn Lynne Charles received a master's degree in education from the University of Phoenix and has been nominated for Disney's Teacher of the Year Award. She is head softball coach and assistant athletic trainer at Massaponax
2004 Jeanice B. Stewart is currently working on a Master of Arts degree in teaching at Trinity University in Washington, D.C.
High School.
Sarah Jean Meyer was married in May
2006 to Jim Womer.
Carter Tresse\\ is the new James City county director of Neighborhood Connections as of May 2006.
Jeff Thomas has been promoted to vice president of culinary operations for Busch Gardens and Water Country USA. Prior to his promotion, he held a variety of managerial positions in the culinary division.
Kezia M. Williams was recently elected for a second term as director of political engagement for the Young Professionals Network of the Northern Virginia Urban League. In addition, she was appointed unanimously by Alexandria City council to sit as a city commissioner on the Alexandria Human Rights Commission, which serves as a iudiciary board for the city and ensures that all citizens in the city are treated equallY and fairly.
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Shaun David Perno is engaged to Meghan Rose Smith '05.
Kristina Jenkins married Steven Campbell in July 2006.
Chris Dagley and Lori LeMoine '06 were married on July 29, 2006.
2005 Quinton Sheppard worked on the local newspaper in Gloucester before beginning graduate school at American University in August 2006.
Sarah Godfrey is teaching at an
orphanage in Mexico for the second year.
W. Blake Burnette has been named to the board of directors of the Boys and Girls Club of the Greater Hampton Roads. He has also been named to the Community Investment Panel of the United Way. Mr. Burnette works with Old Point National Bank as a commercial account manager.
2006 Stephanie Boyles has accepted a job as a cruelty caseworker in the Research and Investigations Department for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. She previously worked in various laboratories for the U.s. Fish and Wildlife Service. She received a master's degree from GNU.
Kimberly Hinnant was married in October 2004 to Marc Triplett.
In memoriam Joretta Wellons '71
died in 2002. James Malcom O'Hara '77
died on July 14, 2006. Paul Gregory Moore '79
died on Sept. 15, 2006. David Caldwell '80 died in August 2005. Janette Reese '89
died on July 24, 2006. Kathy Roberts '03
died on May 13, 2006.
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serves more than - " 14,000 alumni. Whether they are recruiting stu-dents, supporting our sports teams, or planning special events, Alumni serve as valuable ambassadors, sharing their enthusiasm and personalizing Christopher Newport University.
The Society has something to offer every Alumni through our new and exciting membership program. You can volunteer on one of the New Course Planning Committees, support special events like our 5K Run and Walk, attend fun networking and social events, or connect through the Career Connections program. Lots of choices, but the most important thing is that you join us. Get involved! Make a difference!
Check it out for yourself; visit the Alumni web site at http: / / alumni.cnu.edu for more information.
If you have any questions or want more information about how you can get involved, please contact Ashley Boyd, director of Alumni Development, at (757) 594-7712 or by e-mail at [email protected].
I am the person, and this is the time! Endless opportunities for fun, networking and service await you as a member of the Alumni Society. Remember, together we are charting a new course! I would like to become a member of the Alumni Society: Schooner $25 individual__ $35 couple __ _ Susan Constant $100 __ Godspeed $500 __ Discovery $1 ,000 __
Please make checks payable to CNUEF. To pay with a credit card, call (757) 594-7712 or include your credit card information below. Please charge my: 0 Visa 0 MasterCard Card Number ____________ _
Exp. Date Signature _____________________ _
HOME MAILING INFORMATION Name ____________________ ___ Address ____________________ _ City State Zip ____ _ Phone ___________ __ E-mail, _________ _
WORK MAILING INFORMATION Title Company ________________ _ Address City _______________ ___ State _______ _ Zip Phone ___________ __ E-mail, __________ _
Office of Alumni Development • 1 University Place • Newport News, VA 23606-2998 • (757) 594-7712 • [email protected] • http://alumni.cnu.edu
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSilY 36
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37 CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSI'IY Alumni Magazine
"Our son Christopher is at CNU this year, and we are happy to report that he is completely enam
ored with all facets of his life at the University. My wife and I are dedicated to ensuring that your
child has the same experience."
- Greg and Marilyn Blake, parents of Christopher '09, Parents Council Board Members
"Relationships are important at Christopher Newport University. The Parents Council provides
the opportunity for parents to be connected to C U. Both our daughter and son are students at
the University and have greatly benefited from the relationships they have developed with the dedicated staff. Joining The Parents Council gave us
the unique chance to play an integral role in support of this great University."
- Lawrence and Constance Breeden, parents of Lauren '09 and George '10, Parents Council Co-Chairs
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DONOR ,J_Jj tJJ JJ'JJ B
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Regina Raring reminisceB<with her former professor, Dr. Ron Mollick of the Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Science.
By Karen L. Gill
Eight months before Regina S. Raring and her husband, Richard H. Raring, moved to
Newport News in 1971, their only child, 3-month-old Stephen, died of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, then called crib death.
As older parents, the couple had felt blessed to have a child and struggled to make sense of their son's death. They wanted to learn everything known at that time about crib death and used the library at Christopher Newport University for their research.
The Rarings went on to establish the Tidewater Guild for Infant Survival for the Hampton Roads
area in 1972 to help educate parents, the medical community and the public about SIDS and promote research. Mr. Raring published a book, "Crib Death: Scourge of Infants, Shame of Society," in the mid-1970s that helped ignite public sentiment about crib death.
Her science interest spurred by their research, Mrs. Raring began taking classes at CNU, and her husband encouraged her to continue her studies full-time.
"I wanted to take classes in the sciences to help me understand the complexity of the human being. The classes occupied my mind so that I didn't have to dwell on our loss, and possibly I could help others with what I learned," Mrs. Raring said.
As a pre-med major, Mrs. Raring said she had dedicated professors who challenged their students.
"It was a lot of work when I was going through it," Mrs. Raring said. "I couldn't believe how hard I worked. We learned things the hard way. We didn't have all the up-to-date equipment."
She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1977, but the couple remained involved with the University. They continued to take courses part-time, often together. Later Mrs. Raring joined the LifeLong Learning Society and attended classes while her husband was at the CNU Library.
Mr. Raring, who retired as a metallurgist with NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, visited the CNU library every day that it was open for three decades.
"The CNU library was Dick's second home for 30 some years. He loved books and was interested in everything. He was not a people person; he was a book person," Mrs. Raring said. "I always came with him in the last few years."
Mter Mr. Raring died on June 5, 2005, Mrs. Raring created an endowment as a memorial to her husband- the CNU Community RRR Library Endowment. The name is a play on the couples'
names - Richard and Regina Raring- as well as reading, 'riting and 'rithmetic, she said.
"It's a significant endowment for the library," said University Librarian Mary Sellen. "Endowments are more valuable than outright gifts because they last a lifetime."
A conservative estimate is that the endowment will provide $2,500 a year for the library, and Mrs. Raring was adamant that it would be for books, Ms. Sellen said.
"I had been working here for two days, and she came up to me with a check for $50,000. What a way to start!" Ms. Sellen said. "She's the kind of person I want to be. She wants to give because it's a good thing to do, and she doesn't want any credit for it. I really admire that. She's wonderful and obviously really cares about CNU."
Mter her husband's death, Mrs. Raring sold her home. "I had to invest the proceeds from the sale of our house somewhere, so I decided to invest in the students," she said.
In addition to her library gift, Mrs. Raring created the CNU Biochemistry and Cell Biology Endowment Fund, half of which will be used for scholarships and half will be endowed for the purchase of equipment. The endowed scholarships will go to students with academic achievement, financial need and a strong interest in biochemistry and cell biology.
Explaining her reasons for supporting the Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Science, Mrs. Raring said, "I thought my instructors were great. They helped me to understand what the researchers were doing in hopes of finding the cause of crib death."
Mrs. Raring has now moved back to Minnesota, where she grew up, to be closer to her family.
"To start a new life at that age takes a lot of courage," said Ms. Sellen. "It says a lot about who Regina is." IIA
Alumni Magazine CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY 38
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I n add ition to reading the Alumni Magazine, you a lso can get daily and monthly
updates on events and news at Christoph er Newport University. Subscribe today to Da ily News Update and eNEWS, the daily and monthly e-m ailed newsletters produced by CNU's Office of Communications and Public Relations.
Daily News Update • E-mai led to subscribers each
workday morning before noon • Includes links to news articles
about CNU, other Virginia
Look at these outstanding benefits:
• NO ANNUAL FEE • Introductory 5.9% APR • Credit Line up to $100,000 • Balance Transfers with no
transfer fee • 24-hour Card member Service • Platinum Passage - a 24-hour
toU-free travel service that guarantees the lowest available airfare at the time of booking
• Up to $1,000,000 Conunon Carrier Travel Accident Insurance (certain restrictions apply)
• Privacy and Fraud Protection -your name wiU not be sold to any other company
coll eges and universities and higher education issues across the nation
• To subscribe, send a blank email to join-cnu_daily_news@ lists.cnu.edu
ENEWS • E-mailed to subscribers in the
first week of each month • Includes news and photos
from across campus, including upcoming events, special recognition and ath letics. See archived issues at http: / / enews.cnu.edu
• To subscribe, send a blank email to join-enews@ lists.cnu.edu
))~
Alumni Magazine • Mailed to Alumni , parents and
friends each spring and fa ll • Send changes or corrections
to your mailing address to [email protected]
• Read this issu e of the CNU Alumni Magazine online at http: / / alumni.cnu.edu/ fall2006 /
• Go to http: / / alumni.cnu.edu/ spring2006/ to read the spring 2006 issue
For more information, go to http: / / universityrelations.cnu.edu
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