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| PSU H1N1 Information (11/17)
PSU H1N1 UPDATE NH Public Health formally notified the campus Monday that we have a confirmed case of H1N1 in a student. fter consulting with NH Public Health Officials over the last few weeks regarding the increase in reports of the flu, it was decided that we should conduct a few tests to confirm the presence of the virus. Two students were tested and one did come back as positive for H1N1. The other student's test was negative for H1N1 or the seasonal flu. This report was not a surprise, we fully expected it as it confirmed what we already believed, H1N1 is on our campus and it continues to affect our community as well as the entire state of New Hampshire. Plymouth State University is reporting our flu activity weekly to the American College Health Association. The ACHA is tracking flu activity at over 250 colleges and universities across the country. Their weekly reports can be viewed on their web site at www.acha.org . Although the seasonal and/or H1N1 flu vaccine is the best defense against the flu, we still encourage everyone to continue to protect yourselves and prevent the spread of the flu by following the COUGH protocol recommended by the New Hampshire Public Health Department: Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze - use your sleeve. Only use your own glass and utensils - don't share Use soap and warm water to wash hands often Get plenty of sleep, exercise, and eat a healthy diet Home is where you belong when you're sick, not at work or school. All of the reported cases of the flu on campus are routinely reviewed to determine if there are any similarities in housing, majors, athletic teams, etc. We have seen the first instance of roommate transmission with last weeks reports. Otherwise, no one residential hall, major or sports team seems to have any disproportionate share of cases. H1N1 Vaccines: PSU Health Services has been approved by the state to order and dispense the H1N1 vaccine. However, the current H1N1 vaccine supply is not yet being released for our student population, even for those students with identified risk factors. As soon as the vaccine is made available to us, we will make arrangements for delivery and announce its availability. We also fully intend to participate in any regional vaccine clinics for the general population. Reports from the State, however, seem to indicate that the general release of the vaccine will not be until sometime in December at the earliest. If you feel your own medical conditions put you in a higher risk category and make you eligible for the vaccine earlier, you should speak with your own health care provider to determine the best course of action for the vaccine. Students should notify Health Services of any risk factors (if you have not done so already) by filling out the online health questionnaire. One piece of good news with H1N1 is that the confirmed cases across the country continue to be the same strain that was used to develop the vaccine. There will always be a concern that the virus will mutate into a stronger, more virulent strain of flu, but as of now, there is no indication that a change is occurring. Seasonal Flu Vaccines: We are still waiting for the remainder of our supply of seasonal flu vaccines to arrive on campus. As soon as they arrive we will be announcing additional seasonal flu vaccine clinics for students and faculty/staff. General Information: The University's experience with the flu appears to be similar to that across the state. In New Hampshire, state Public Health officials currently are reporting "widespread" flu activity, as are most New England states. Nationwide, 46 states are reporting widespread flu activity. On a local level, PSU has hosted two sessions for Regional Health Officers and Emergency Management Directors regarding preparing for large scale public health emergencies, outbreaks and mass vaccination clinics. With this training, and other recent activities, PSU continues to maintain an active role in the Regional Public Health planning process. University officials will continue to monitor the situation on a campus, state and national level and will report back with any changes and updates. Continue to monitor this Web site, e-mails and myPlymouth for announcements and schedules of any new seasonal and H1N1 vaccination clinics. Staff from Health Services, Environmental Health & Safety, Student Affairs and Residential Life continue to work together to provide assistance, supplies and services, as needed, to the Campus community. H1N1 Symptoms: NH Health officials indicate that symptoms of the H1N1 flu are similar to seasonal influenza, and include fever, sore throat, cough, stuffy nose, chills, headache and muscle aches, and fatigue. In some cases, patients also experience diarrhea and vomiting. If you believe you are suffering from flu symptoms, you are urged to PHONE your health care provider. They will discuss your situation and work with you to decide the best course of action for treatment or testing, if warranted. ________________________________________
PSU will continue to provide updates as the situation warrants. Complete University emergency information is available at: plymouth.edu/emergency. For more information regarding PSU's H1N1 preparedness contact Tammy Hill, PSU Manager of Environmental Health and Safety at tjhill2@plymouth.edu . Please direct media queries to Bruce Lyndes, PSU Acting Director of Public Relations at blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| Plymouth State Students Win Regional Geography Competition
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Plymouth State University continued its dominance in college geography academic competition by earning another New England-St. Lawrence Valley Geographical Society (NESTVAL) World Geography Bowl trophy. NESTVAL is the nation's oldest regional academic geography organization, and Plymouth State's Geo Bowl team has won the competition many times since its inception in 1992. The team, comprised of five PSU students and advised by Dr. Bryon Middlekauff, competed in three head-to-head quiz bowl rounds against teams from Salem State, Bridgewater State, Central Connecticut State (CCSU), and Keene State. Each round consists of 12 individual questions and two team-questions with multiple-part answers.
Eligible students will be selected to represent the NESTVAL region all-star team in the national competition at the Association of American Geographers conference in Washington DC in April. Professor Middlekauff said he was very proud of the Plymouth State team's performance. "I couldn't believe it! They were very competitive," Middlekauff said. Additionally, Middlekauff was elected to serve as NESTVAL's Regional Councilor and will represent the New England states and eastern Canada on the Association of American Geographers' Executive committee for the next three years. Not only did PSU win the NESTVAL competition, PSU Social Science Professor Dr. Mark Okrant was honored with the 2009 NESTVAL Award for Lifetime Contribution to Geography. Okrant said he was surprised and thrilled to receive the recognition. "This is an honor I will cherish. I hope to repay NESTVAL's selection by making many more contributions before the sun sets on my career," Okrant said. Okrant is a professor of tourism management and director of PSU's Institute for New Hampshire Studies. He has coordinated tourism research for the State of New Hampshire since 1990 and is past president of the Travel and Tourism Research Association and the New England-St. Lawrence Valley Geographical Society. He was the 1998 recipient of the Association of American Geographers' John Rooney Award, for excellence in applied tourism research, and is the author of four books. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU's Dick Hage Honored at Regional NASPA Event
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Longtime PSU administrator Dick Hage was honored Nov. 6 by the Region 1 Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education (NASPA) with the 2009 Institutional Leadership Award. Hage, PSU's Vice President for Student Affairs, has worked at Plymouth State for nearly 35 years.
"I certainly feel honored and humbled," Hage said. "But this recognition is truly about being blessed to work at a great University and to have colleagues of extraordinary talent and commitment to students across every department. It's just the Plymouth way." PSU Dean of Student Affairs Tim Keefe said Hage's exemplary work ethic and expertise in all facets of student affairs made him the perfect choice for the award. "Dick is a dedicated professional who sets high standards for himself and has the ability to instill the same in others," said Keefe. "He sincerely wants others to succeed; he is the penultimate role model for all his staff." With more than 11,000 members at 1,400 campuses, and representing 29 countries, NASPA is the foremost professional association for student affairs administrators, faculty, and graduate and undergraduate students. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| Former N.H. Supreme Court Associate Justice Richard Galway Speaks at PSU
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Former New Hampshire Associate Supreme Court Justice Richard Galway speaks to Plymouth State University business students Nov. 16 in a special appearance. 
Galway, a member of the University System Board of Trustees, led the class in a discussion about a business law case involving product warranties. He was invited to speak by business instructor Chantalle R. Forgues. Galway served as a judge for 14 years, five of them on the high court. He was picked for the top court by Gov. Craig Benson in 2004 and retired earlier this year. | ||||||||
| PSU Names Mary Campbell 2009 Storer Award Winner
PLYMOUTH, N.H.-A longtime advisor to Plymouth State undergraduates has been honored with the Patricia Storer Award. Mary Campbell, Director of Curriculum Support, has worked at Plymouth State for 35 years, dedicating her life to helping students reach their academic goals. She received the award in a Nov. 6 ceremony before friends, family and colleagues. Campbell worked with Patricia Storer earlier in her career at Plymouth State, and called her a role model.
"Pat Storer was a good and faithful servant who was worthy of being emulated," Campbell said. "Service was an important part of my upbringingand my PSC and PSU life. To have my service recognized by my academic community with the Patricia Storer PAT award is very humbling." The Patricia Storer Award was initiated in 2007 in honor of a longtime Plymouth State employee who exemplifies dedication, knowledge and respect in serving the students, staff and faculty at Plymouth State University. Storer passed away earlier this year. University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Julie Bernier said Campbell's work ethic and devotion to her job are legendary. Mary has left an indelible mark on our community," Bernier said. Campbell is a resident of Hebron and is the vice chair of the Newfound Area School Board. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| New Hampshire Lodging & Restaurant Association Honors PSU's Chris Mongeon
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- The New Hampshire Lodging & Restaurant Association has honored Chris Mongeon, general manager of the Plymouth State's Sodexo food service, with the 2009 Excellence in Education award. Mongeon received the honor Nov. 2 at the 95th Stars of the Industry Awards Dinner at the Mount Washington Resort, an event that honors the Best of New Hampshire Hospitality. Mongeon, a food service veteran with more than 30 years experience, said he is grateful to PSU and the community for supporting Sodexo's efforts. "I know I am not alone in accomplishing what I do professionally or personally," said Mongeon. "It's about community and belonging. Central New Hampshire and Plymouth are my home. I am blessed to work for a company like Sodexo, at a place like Plymouth State University where both cultures blend together in a partnership that allows me to be active with the students and in the community. Although I am a contractor at the university, Plymouth State has never treated me that way and I have always felt a true sense of belonging." For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU Honors Veterans in Nov. 10 Ceremony at New Veterans Common
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Plymouth State University's new Veterans Common was christened Nov. 10 with a Veterans Day ceremony paying homage to last week's tragic shooting at Fort Hood, Texas. Preston Fuller of the Campus Ministry asked the crowd to remember the suffering of the soldiers and families at Fort Hood, where an Army officer went on a shooting spree last week, killing 13 people. "I know our military community, as well as our national community, are suffering," said Fuller. "That suffering was due to the act of one person, one soldier whose life was twisted, and thus twisted his faith in an act of violence upon other soldiers."
Kathy Tardif of the Campus Ministry asked that people say a prayer in memory of the victims. "On this day, hold close the service men and women who died at Fort Hood, Texas," Tardif said. "Protect the currently active service men and women, given them a shield of strength, a refuge in every adversity, guide them to a safe return home, to those that love them." Army Specialist Kristina Nee, an Epping, N.H., native who serves with the New Hampshire Army National Guard's 237th Military Police Company, reminded the crowd that veterans view their lives differently than most civilians. "Loyalty, duty, sacrifice, honor, courage and patriotism are just a few words that describe the feeling of being a soldier," said Nee. "Veterans Day is a time for the rest of the country to stop and think about the sacrifices that these men and women have made, and thank them for their service." The Nov. 10 ceremony was the first Veterans Day commemorated at PSU's Veterans Common, which features a round brick-lined circular walk with granite monuments inscribed with the seals of military service branches. The Veterans Common was built earlier this year, culminating a decades-long goal of Phi Beta Upsilon, a fraternity which was started by veterans for veterans at Plymouth State in the early 1970s. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| 176 High School Musicians at Plymouth State Nov. 23
The concert will conclude a daylong event involving honor band members representing 58 high schools from all six New England states. The students were chosen from more than 300 who applied for the festival from a total of 62 high schools. Selection was based on students' individual musical achievements while attending the schools they are representing. More than two-thirds of those selected have been members of their respective all-state bands or orchestras. Guest conductors for the 2009 festival are Robert Sheldon and Christopher Tucker. Both are internationally known composers of band music and have many published and recorded works to their credit. The festival bands will share the concert with the Plymouth State University Symphonic Band, conducted by Professor Gary Corcoran. The Colonial Brass of the United States Air Force Band of Liberty will join with the PSU Band in a performance of a suite from "Mass" by Leonard Bernstein. The university band will perform works by Paul Dukas, Edward Madden and Percy Grainger. Mezzo-soprano Heather Jacques will be featured with the Symphonic Band in a performance of Christopher Tucker's "Earth, the Gentlest Mother." Tickets for the performance are $7 at the Silver Center Box Office, (603) 535-ARTS or (800) 779-3869.
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| Eugene Ionesco's Rhinocerous at PSU Nov. 19-22
Kevin Gardner, an actor and director who also critiques and adjudicates for various theatre competitions and groups, is guest director of this new translation by Martin Crimp of the classic allegory. When a rhinoceros charges across the town on Sunday afternoon, "Beringer" thinks nothing of it. But soon, people all around him are becoming rhinos, and Beringer's world is threatened, in a reflection of Ionesco's personal experience with Facism. Beringer wills himself to not succumb to conformism, alluded to in the play as "rhinoceritis," saying, "I'll take on the world---I'll take on the whole wide world. I'm the last human left. And human I'll stay. I'm not giving in." Gardner says the enduring qualities of Rhinoceros, which premiered in 1960, lie partly in its fame and partly in its contradictions. "Rhinoceros is one of Absurdism's most palatable works, mostly because it's one of the movement's funniest," Gardner said. " Ionesco playfully creates a world in which reversion to primordial brutality is inevitable because no one can understand anyone else, especially when they speak." Performances are Nov. 19-21 at 8 p.m.; Nov. 21 at 2 p.m. and Nov. 22 at 3 p.m. at the Silver Center for the Arts. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $8 for youth at the Silver Center Box Office, (603) 535-ARTS or (800) 779-3869. Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University.
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| Joe Dudek '87 Named Vice Chairman of PSU President's Council
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Former All-American football player Joe Dudek '87 was named vice-chairman of the PSU President's Council at their Oct. 16 meeting. The mission of the Plymouth State University President's Council is to raise funds for endowments and to develop University resources that will advance the mission and vision of Plymouth State University. Dudek joined the Council in 2007 and said he is excited about the opportunity to help his alma mater.
"I am very excited to be named Vice Chairman of the PSU President's Council," said Dudek. "Attending Plymouth State University was one of the best decisions that I have ever made and my work on the President's Council provides me with an opportunity to give back to the university that has given me so much. I look forward to working with Wally Stevens and the rest of the President's Council members in achieving all of our fundraising goals." President's Council Chairman Wally Stevens,'62, said he is looking forward to working with Dudek on future fundraising goals. "Joe has demonstrated during his time as an undergraduate at Plymouth and his subsequent leadership in the business community a passion for excellence and commitment to teamwork," Stevens said. "As Council Chair, Im delighted to see Joe take on these added responsibilities as vice chair." Dudek is vice president and general manager of the Century Division for Southern Wine & Spirits of New England, the largest wine and spirits distributor in the United States. Prior to joining Southern Wine & Spirits of New England, Joe worked for the Coors Brewing Company, Labatt USA and Mike's Hard Lemonade in a variety of positions covering 26 states during his career. While at Plymouth State, Joe was a four year starting running back for the Panther football team, gaining All-American status in 1985. He graduated with a degree in Business Management. Joe and his wife Jodi live in Auburn, N.H. with their son Joey and daughter Taylor. Dudek replaces Joan Cook ('69) as Vice Chair. Cook was a founding member of the President's Council in 2001, has served as Vice Chair since 2004 and will continue to serve on the Council. She will also continue leading the Heritage Society, which has been vital in facilitating alumni donations to the University through estate planning. Stevens said Cook's efforts on behalf of the University have been impressive. "Her involvement in the Council through every aspect of the first fundraising campaign and now with Imagine a Way' has been exemplary," said Stevens. "We all appreciate Joan's continued leadership." Members of the President's Council represent alumni from the 1950s through to the 1990s. Some of members attend from as far away as California and Florida. Others live in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Maine. For more information, visit President's Council. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU Ice Arena and Welcome Center Reaches Construction Milestone
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Construction on the Plymouth State University Ice Arena and Welcome Center took a momentous step forward Friday, Oct. 30, with a last beam signing' ceremony at the construction site on Route 175-A in Holderness.
"We are here today to thank those many, many people who have turned what once was a dream into the reality that is rising so beautifully before us," Steen said. "We are extremely proud to bring this new front door' to the University and our region." The chair of the University System of New Hampshire Board of Trustees, Ed Dupont, said the building will benefit the state. "We take great pride in Plymouth State University and its aspirations for a better future for all of New Hampshire," said Dupont. "The beauty and elegance of this project is its aim to benefit not only PSU and its students, but also to improve employment in the region, enhance opportunities for physical activity for local residents, bolster the tourism industry in central and northern New Hampshire, and expose more prospective students to the University." Lindsay Harrington, Student Senate speaker, spoke of students' involvement in the project. She imagined the generations of students to follow, "who may think there's always been an ice arena in Plymouth - as we think of the HUB or the Silver Center for the Performing Arts." The captain of the PSU men's hockey team, senior Chris Chambers, said the University is taking a big step toward the future. "I'm very proud for this institution," Chambers said. "Not only will this be great for the University and students, but it will bring a lot more people to the community from around the state." The beam will be hoisted into place by Monday, November 9, where it will be visible to the public. The structure is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2010. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| Ken Knight Named Manager of PSU Ice Arena and Welcome Center
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- A veteran ice facility manager will oversee the new Plymouth State University Ice Arena and Welcome Center. Ken Knight assumed his duties Nov. 2, which include overseeing day-to-day operations of the facility, scheduling all events, staff supervision, marketing, promotions, maintenance and managing the Welcoming Center and Multipurpose rooms. Knight has 31 years of ice arena management experience, including positions in Indiana, Texas and Wisconsin. Knight said PSU's facility, which is slated for completion next summer, is a wonderful opportunity.
"I am very excited to be here and a part of such a major project," Knight said. "I look forward to working with the student organizations and the varsity hockey teams. I am also very excited about working with the various community groups." Knight said the Arena will offer many activities for area residents, including learn to skate, hockey and figure programs, broomball and public skating sessions. Knight is a native of southern Indiana and earned a bachelor's in communications from Southern Indiana University. The Ice Arena is the first of a five-phase plan to construct PSU's new ALLWell Center complex (Active Living, Learning, and Wellness). Future phases of the ALLWell Center will house classrooms, research laboratories, lecture halls, offices, multipurpose activity laboratories, conference rooms, and general support areas for academic and athletic programs. The Ice Arena will be built to meet LEED Silver standards by installing sophisticated geothermal heating/cooling design to maximize energy conservation opportunities. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| 2009 Faculty Show at Drerup Gallery Nov. 4-Dec. 9
The public exhibition presents opportunities for students and members of the community to become better acquainted with art department faculty and directly engage with the range and breadth of their work. An opening reception will be held at the gallery from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4. Gallery talks are scheduled at noon on November 10 (The Path of an Artist) and November 18 (Artistic Philosophy). Department of Art Chair Cynthia Vascak said, "The annual faculty exhibition is a vital tradition at PSU that invites our entire community to celebrate and honor the multifaceted creative and expressive talents of our faculty. The exhibition highlights new creative directions and/or projects that exemplify the artists' lifelong passion, practice and pursuit of beauty and meaning,a constant evolution and exploration of mastery and a quest for ever-deepened insights and understandings of self, world and other." The exhibition presents work in ceramic, drawing, landscape design, sculpture, printmaking, painting, photography and graphic arts.
Exhibitor Nick Sevigney said, "Being an artist is a big part of being a member of any art department. If you are not working and participating in the larger art community it is difficult to tell students what it takes to be an artist. I really enjoy my teaching practice but love making art. To strengthen my teaching practice, the importance of using my skills as an artist is essential. The energy, enthusiasm and technical expertise I employ in my own studio help me demonstrate and teach craftsmanship, creativity and analytical skills to my students in the university studio. It is important that students know this and see the results of what faculty make in an exhibit." Drerup Gallery is open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Wednesday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and by appointment. For gallery information call (603) 535-2614 or log on to www.plymouth.edu/artdept. Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University. Annette Mitchell "Inspiration" quilt detail. Jason Swift "Hold it Softly" installation. -end- | ||||||||
| PSU Common Man Apprentice Dessert Competition Underway
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- The sweetest competition in the Granite State is again underway! The Common Man Apprentice Project Dessert Competition kicked off Nov. 3 with judging of student created desserts at the Plymouth Common Man restaurant.
The popular competition pits business students from St. Anselm College and Plymouth State University in creating a dessert for the Common Man Restaurant group. The competition is modeled after the reality TV show, The Apprentice,' featuring Donald Trump. Head chefs from the restaurant chain select the three best desserts from contests at each school. Those six winning entries are then put on the menu in November at each of the five Common Man restaurants in a head-to-head competition, with the winner decided by total sales. The overall winner is expected to be named in December. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU Professor Emeritus Manuel Marquez-Sterling was Witness to History
Elections were held on November 3, 1958 and Dr. Sterling's father, Carlos Marquez-Sterling, was a candidate for President. His father was expected to win by a landslide vote, but there was rampant electoral fraud, due to Batista and the Army. Six weeks after the election, Batista fled Cuba and Castro's revolution took over the country. Marquez-Sterling has documented the period in a new book, Cuba 1952-1959: The True Story of Castro's Rise to Power. He says his book destroys many myths about Cuba and shows that it was a prosperous and progressive country, and in the fast lane to become a first-world country with a large middle class, a fine educational system open to all classes, and with high standards of living. A public book talk and signing will take place at the Lamson Library and Learning Commons at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3. Copies of Dr. Sterling's book will be available for purchase. For information about the reading contact Anne Lebreche at Lamson Library and Learning Commons via e-mail to AMLebreche@plymouth.edu. Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University.
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| November Events at PSU A Tipsheet of PSU events scheduled in November is available at http://www.plymouth.edu/news/tipsheets/Nov09tips.pdf. | ||||||||
| The United Nations and Human Rights Nov. 17 at Plymouth State University
Mertus says the UN and non-governmental organizations are promoting a more just and peaceful future through greater participation in problem solving and conflict prevention. Mertus, author of The United Nations and Human Rights, is a leading expert on civic education and the United Nations. Her work focuses on human rights education, U.S. foreign policy, refugee and humanitarian law and policy, gender and conflict and post-war transitions. While her geographic expertise is in Central and Eastern Europe and the former Yugoslavia, she has participated in human rights projects in many locations including Vietnam, Brazil, China, Jordan and South Africa. Mertus will speak at 7 p.m. in Smith Recital Hall, Silver Center for the Arts. Free tickets are available at the Silver Center Box Office, (603) 535-ARTS or (800) 779-3869. For information, contact Professor Mark Fischler at (603) 535-3143 or via e-mail to mjfischler@plymouth.edu. The next speaker in the series will be February 16, 2010: Robert Pollin, professor of economics at the University of Massachusetts and Co-Director of the Political Economy Research Institute. Professor Pollin will speak on "How Green Economics Can Revive the Economy. The theme for the 2009-2010 series is "Educating for Global Citizenship." General information about events at Plymouth State University is online at ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu.
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| PSU Hosts Professor Erick Eschker of Humboldt State University to Discuss the Humboldt Economic Index
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- On Friday, November 6, the Center for Rural Partnerships will welcome Professor Erick Eschker of Humboldt State University to discuss the Humboldt Economic Index, a cooperative model for tracking the economy of rural regions. This index, which addresses a rural region in Northern California, is the inspiration for the North Country Economic Index (NCEI), created by PSU professors Dan Lee and Vedran Lelas. The NCEI will provide more precise economic information about the Granite State's northern most counties to interested businesses, families, charities and lawmakers, said Thad Guldbrandsen, executive director of the PSU based Center for Rural Partnerships. "If a business is thinking about whether or not to make an investment or expand in a region, that's a risky enterprise," said Guldbrandsen. "This data will provide new reliable information that will enable businesses to have more confidence in the decisions they make." The information also will be useful for charitable organizations trying to assess the impact of their programs, government agencies and policymakers, and individuals deciding whether to buy a home or change careers, Guldbrandsen said. Dr. Escker's presentation will begin at 1:30 p.m. in Heritage Commons. In addition, those interested may attend an informal discussion beginning at 11:30 a.m. in Prospect Dining Hall (lunch will be available for purchase). For more information, contact Ben Amsden, or call 535-3274. | ||||||||
| Two Rivers Printmaking Studio Artists' Portfolio Exhibition at PSU Oct. 26-Jan. 29 PLYMOUTH, N.H. - New Hampshire and Vermont artists represented by Two Rivers Printmaking Studio have works on display at Lamson Library and Learning Commons on the campus of Plymouth State University October 26-January 29.
Exhibitors in this show are Jennifer Anderson, Ian Baldwin, Lois Masor Beatty, Penelope Bennett, Susan Airris Berry, Amparo Carvajal-Hufschmid, Jennifer Cintron, Betsey Garand, Daniel Gottsegen, Rachel Gross and Louise Hamlin. Also Ann Audley Holloway, Debra Jayne, Jenevieve Alyssa Johnson, Judy Lampe, Carol Lippman, Nori Lupfer, Elizabeth Mayor, Mary Mead, Josh Melrod, Sue Schiller, Rebekah A.L. Tolley, Sherri Hancock-Tomek, Sheryl Trainor, Nancy Wightman and Bert Yarborough. "We are really excited to display these remarkable prints," said David Beronä, dean of the library and academic support services. "Normally our print portfolios are kept in our Special Collections and available for private viewing. The quality and inspiring subject matter of these prints, however, need to be seen by a wider public, which is the reason I wanted the prints framed and on display. What a great opportunity to support the work of living and breathing printmakers in our area."
Two Rivers Printmaking Studio is a nonprofit teaching and learning workspace located in White River Junction, Vt., that is run cooperatively by its member artists. The studio hosts classes, exhibitions and lectures by artists, curators and collectors to help build interest in the art and history of printmaking. Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University. Images: 1. Jennifer Anderson, "Passage" 8 X 6 shaped plate hard-ground etching with aquatint 2. Louise Hamlin, "Watermelon" 7 X 5.5 soft-ground etching with surface roll
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| PSU Creates College of Business Administration
PLYMOUTH, N.H.-Continuing a tradition of providing exceptional programs in Business, Plymouth State University has established the College of Business Administration and has named longtime Business Department Chair and Professor Trent Boggess as the College's founding Dean. Dr. Boggess received his undergraduate degree in History and German, and his master's in Economics from Bowling Green University and his Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Kansas. Before joining the faculty of Plymouth State, Dr. Boggess was employed by the Ford Motor Company and an Assistant Professor of Economics at Kent State University. Since 1983 Dr. Boggess has been a member of the Business Department faculty and has served as Director, Assistant Chair and Chair of the Department since 1992. Dr. Boggess has an international reputation for his knowledge of the products and business practices during the early years of the Ford Motor Company, particularly with respect to the design, development and production of the Model T Ford. He was a founding member of the Board of Directors of the Model T Heritage Complex, Inc, a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the Ford's Piquette Avenue Plant, the birthplace of the Model T. As part of his public service and scholarship, Dr. Boggess has contributed over 2500 volunteer hours to the Benson Ford Research Center.
PSU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Julie Bernier said she has great respect for Dr. Boggess as a leader in business administration. "Dr. Boggess has led the department through a period of unprecedented growth," Bernier said. "He is innovative and has the vision necessary to lead the college as its first Dean. I look forward to working with him in shaping the future of this newly created college." The College of Business Administration will continue to provide Bachelor of Science degree programs in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, Marketing and Management and at the graduate level, the Master of Business Administration. "The current economic situation offers a wealth of opportunities for well-trained students in the global marketplace," said Boggess. "The programs we offer in the College of Business Administration are preparing our graduates to enter the workforce poised for success." There are 850 undergraduate Business majors and 225 graduate students currently enrolled in PSU Business programs. In just the past year, the PSU business faculty developed several new programs for both undergraduate and graduate students. For example, the recent restructuring of the Bachelor's degree in Marketing produced three new options; Integrated Marketing Communication, Public Relations, and Professional Sales Leadership. To better serve New Hampshire's business needs, an option in Small Business and Entrepreneurship has been added to the Bachelor of Science in Management. The PSU MBA was recently expanded to offer an International Business Certificate in partnership with the University of Babes-Bolyai in Cluj, Romania, whereby courses are taught by both UBB and PSU faculty. Additionally, this summer, PSU signed an agreement with the American University Antigua to offer the Plymouth MBA with a certificate in Health Care Administration to AUA's medical students. PSU's MBA is offered around the state and online and offers six specialized certificates in Investment and Finance, Strategic Marketing Management, Organizational Communication, The Human Side of Enterprise, International Business, and Health Care Administration. The PSU Small Business Institute (SBI) program is nationally recognized for the quality of its students' projects and in 2007, was named best SBI program in the country. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU Hosts Morgridge Family Foundation and Local Educators
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- When John Morgridge graduated from Plymouth State in 1985 with a bachelor's degree in business management, he never envisioned returning to the area with a message about improving educational opportunity with technology. But soon after earning his degree, John's life took a fortuitous turn when his father became CEO of Cisco Systems and guided it to become a worldwide leader in internet communications technology. Now, 25 years later, the Morgridge family's good fortune has evolved into a nationally renowned private foundation whose goal is to enhance learning in the nation's schools through interactive and multimedia technology tools. On Oct. 13, John returned to PSU with his wife Carrie as representatives of the Morgridge Family Foundation and met with educators from a half-dozen area schools and school districts, seeking to partner and support their work through a new foundation that provides interactive electronic whiteboards to enhance instruction and learning.
"I feel fortunate to be able to give back to public education here in New Hampshire," Morgridge said. "We've given away over one thousand interactive whiteboards and we're hoping to walk away with some new partners that we can work with and help implement this 21st century classroom collaboration." Plymouth State President Sara Jayne Steen praised the Morgridge Family Foundation for their generosity and vision in sharing their important message about the 21st century classroom collaborative (21st CCC). "John and Carrie are wonderful philanthropists, with a national and international reach," Steen said. "We at Plymouth State are pleased to be invited to take a leading role in their partnerships for education." As part of the foundation's initiative, PSU is working with area schools and educators to coordinate a comprehensive proposal to the foundation built around new technology toolkits. The toolkits contain interactive whiteboards, interactive formative assessment tools, and teacher training materials provided by SMART Technologies and Promethean which provide innovative online resources for teachers and students to utilize in the classroom. The foundation also supports several early childhood literacy and health initiatives. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU Honors Seven with Alumni Recognition Awards
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Seven Plymouth State graduates have been honored with Alumni Recognition awards for service to the school, community and their professional achievements. The 2009 Alumni Awards were presented Saturday, Oct. 17 at Heritage Commons as part of Homecoming and Family Celebration Weekend. Here are the award recipients: Distinguished Alumni Service Award: Larry Haynes 1986 The Distinguished Alumni Service Award, established in 1963, recognizes the graduate who through unselfish devotion and loyalty has served Plymouth State University and/or its alumni organizations. To be eligible, a graduate shall have rendered unusual service in the form of: faithful and continued effort in such areas as maintaining class or other alumni organizations; active participation in alumni or university affairs; and assistance in expanding the usefulness, influence and prestige of the university. Haynes, a member of the President's Council and the USNH Board of Trustees, said he was surprised at being chosen. "It's very humbling to be included in such a prestigious group," Haynes said. "I've always wanted to contribute in a small way, certainly it's a thrill to be recognized." Alumni Achievement Award: Fred Bramante G06 Established in 1978, and modified in 1991, the Alumni Achievement Award recognizes deserving alumni who exemplify the university's motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve) through active participation in and special contribution to, the activities of the PSU Alumni Association, their chosen professional field, or the improvement of society in general. Bramante, a successful businessman and former state school board chair, has long advocated reforming school systems to include real world learning,' like involving local businesses in offering mentoring opportunities to students. Bramante said the Alumni award is significant to him. "It's a recognition that the work I've been putting forward has merit and people are starting to accept it and move in a new direction in improving schools around the country," said Bramante. The Ut Prosim Award: Richard Wylie 1963 The Ut Prosim Award, established in 1998, recognizes an alumna or alumnus whose exemplary community service and contributions in business, professional, civic, philanthropic, volunteer or similar activities are worthy of recognition and have brought honor to Plymouth State University and exemplify the University's motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve). Primary volunteer service shall not be to Plymouth State University, but to the community. Types of service include, but are not limited to: • Elected office or other civic involvement • Community improvement programs (Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Girl/Boy Scout leadership, Homelessness Task Force, etc.) • Service society membership (Lion's Club, Kiwanis, etc.) • Leadership in professional organizations. Wylie is the longtime President of Endicott College in Beverly, Mass., and has served as a professor and administrator at the University of Connecticut, Temple University, the University of Colorado, and Lesley College. He is very involved with community volunteering, sitting on numerous boards including banks, corporations and non-profit agencies. Wylie said giving back to the community is an integral part of his life and it was nurtured when he was an undergraduate student in Plymouth. "It reinforces what I learned at Plymouth, giving and caring does make a difference," Wylie said. "I think we can be models to others and encourage others to do it; I'm greatly appreciative of this award."
Recent Alumni Award of Excellence: Heidi Pettigrew 1999, G07 Established in 2008, the Recent Alumni Award of Excellence is awarded to alumni who have graduated within the last 10 years, in recognition of professional excellence and outstanding service to the University, association, community and/or nation. Pettigrew received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from PSU and is currently the Marketing Manager for PSU's College of Graduate Studies. Pettigrew said she is deeply honored to receive the award. "As a student, Plymouth prepared me with the skills and knowledge I needed to succeed professionally," Pettigrew said. "Now, as an employee, Plymouth has given me the opportunity identify and pursue my professional interests; connect and collaborate with staff, faculty, students, and alumni; and explore and implement new ideas to best serve the University and our constituents. I look forward to continuing to serve Plymouth State-as an employee and proud alum." Faculty/Staff Award of Excellence: Linda Levy G04 - HHP Established in 2008, the Faculty/Staff Award of Excellence is awarded to a faculty or staff member who exhibits a commitment to supporting alumni and students connections in a campus environment. Levy, an HHP associate professor, said she hoped that she can continue to give as much to the University as she has received. "It's very humbling to receive an award from an alumni association," said Levy. "For me, it's just a way to give back to a place that's given me so much." Graduating Senior Award of Excellence: The Class of 2009 Officers (Eugene Martin, Christina Labriola, Amanda Crean) Established in 2008, the Graduating Senior Award of Excellence is awarded to a graduating member of the incoming alumni class who exhibits outstanding campus and community leadership while enhancing alumni activities. Martin said the Class of 2009 started a scholarship program for students of the ALLWell Center because it's a gift that will directly aid students. "We chose the class gift to better the institution, rather than just giving a bench or something tangible, we're giving chances for scholarships to help the ALLWell Center, so hopefully we've set the bar for the next set of folks," Martin said. Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award : Kim Rawson Sychterz G09 Established in 2008, the Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award is awarded to a graduate alum who through earning an advanced degree has been able to impact their profession, community or society in a positive and meaningful manner. Rawson Sychterz credits PSU's faculty with her success and said the award reflects their hard work. "It's a huge honor," said Rawson Sychterz. "The faculty have given me so many opportunities; they've helped me become what I am today and accomplish the things I have today." For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU Announces 2009 Fall Undergraduate Enrollment
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- The number of undergraduate students attending Plymouth State University this fall remained strong as 4,261 are enrolled 30 days into the semester (the official census date for the fall semester), University officials announced today. This is a decrease of 39 students from 2008. The University also reports the number of transfer undergraduate students enrolled this semester is 250, an increase of 61 from a year ago. The number of students living on campus this semester is 2,422, with residence halls at 97% of capacity. To provide the most accurate graduate student enrollment data, PSU will release its College of Graduate Studies enrollment numbers later in the fall semester. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU Begins Series of Seasonal Flu Vaccine Clinics
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Plymouth State University has initiated a series of flu vaccine clinics for students in preparation for seasonal flu season. Nearly 100 students received free seasonal flu vaccinations Thursday, Oct. 1, in the first clinic provided by the University's Health Services Center and more clinics are being scheduled to accommodate student demand. PSU Environmental Health and Safety Manager Tammy Hill said the University has experienced a handful of flu cases and all necessary precautions are being taken to protect students, staff and faculty from flu-like illnesses. "The staffs from Residential Life and Student Affairs work with the ill students to make sure they have what they need to quickly and safely recuperate in a way that will not adversely affect the healthy students," Hill said. So far this year, the University's experience with the flu appears to be similar to that across the state. In New Hampshire, state Public Health officials currently are reporting regional flu activity, as are most New England states. 
The flu shots currently being offered by PSU are a vaccine for seasonal flu, which is prepared each season against new variations of the seasonal influenza. The vaccine for the H1N1 influenza strain is due to be released shortly, although it will likely not be until the end of October or later before it is made available to the general student population. Students that have medical risk factors for the flu that would allow for earlier vaccination against H1N1 are urged to contact their own health care provider or University Health Services for guidance. Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control is reporting that visits to doctors for flu-like illnesses are increasing and have been for the last several weeks. However, the current H1N1 strain remains one that most otherwise healthy individuals can recover from with limited or no medical interventions. On a local level, last week PSU hosted a training session for Regional Health Officers and Emergency Management Directors regarding preparing for large scale public health emergencies, outbreaks and mass vaccination clinics. With this training, and other recent activities, PSU continues to maintain an active role in the Regional Public Health planning process. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| TIGER Educational Theatre Group Premieres Production on Sustainability
PLYMOUTH, N.H. - Children in grades four through six at the Captain Samuel Douglass Academy in Brookline will get some lessons on sustainability October 16 when Plymouth State University's educational theatre troupe,
TIGER is a collaboration between the graduate programs in integrated arts and counselor education at Plymouth State University. It was designed to create a forum in which different social issues can be explored. A new topic is chosen every two years.
Each concept is taught and reinforced through lively scenes, songs and dances that resonate with the young students and help them understand and want to act on these important environmental issues.
The project is funded in part by a grant to the academy from Xilinx Corporation in San Jose, Calif.
In the tradition of
Information about booking a TIGER show and/or workshop is available from TIGER tour manager
Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University.
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| PSU Helping to Grow the North Country Economy
Plymouth, N.H. - Plymouth State University is developing a new informational tool to help bolster the economy in northern New Hampshire. The North Country Economic Index (NCEI) will be a periodic index containing detailed information about the economic climate in Coos County and northern New Hampshire. Business professors Daniel Lee and Vedran Lelas say the economic indicators currently available don't offer enough information to base important personal, business or governmental financial decisions on, so they are developing a customized collection of data that will be available free of charge. Lee said everyone who has interest in the North Country can benefit from this project. "We're going to provide economic indicators that cover the overall economy in the North Country," Lee said. "People buying or selling a home or business, looking for employment or planning major financial moves can all make better informed decisions with this data." The NCEI includes rooms and meals tax collections, home sales, manufacturing and trade sales, building permits, electricity sales and personal income data. PSU President Sara Jayne Steen said the NCEI is a great example of the University making a difference with innovation and expertise. "We offer real world solutions to real world problems," Steen said. "We are serving this region with excellence and we have a special responsibility to the Lakes region and the North Country that we take seriously." Thad Guldbrandsen, executive director of PSU's Center for Rural Partnership, said the NCEI is part of PSU's goal to provide assistance to the state. "We have a lot of resources on campus and we want to harness the potential that we have here at PSU to make the region a better place to live. The way to do that is to connect out to the people who need the information," Guldbrandsen said. The NCEI will initially cover Coos County, but Carroll and Grafton counties will be included in future reports. The NCEI was developed through a partnership with the Neil and Louise Tillotson Fund of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, the Coos County Outreach Initiative and PSU's Center for Rural Partnerships. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU Galleries Host Multiple Exhibitions Fall Semester at PSU Galleries presents Installations, Photographs and Poetry, Textile Art and Faculty Works, PLYMOUTH, N.H. - Five new exhibitions will fill the Plymouth State University galleries with illustrations; photograph and poetry collages; textile history, function and design; and faculty works this fall.
Working with her husband, Jerry Carr, Musick produces work that reflects her affinity to nature. "My art is a reflection of the tensions that exist between mankind and the natural environment. It addresses the havoc that we have done to the natural world and the devastation that the natural world has wreaked upon mankind. I search for ways to create harmony and reconciliation of this situation both in the media and the content," Musick said. In 2002, following the tradition of Christo, and inspired by installation artist Andy Goldsworthy; Musick, Carr and a crew created an art installation titled Stone Songs on the Trail of Tears that traveled along the path followed by the Cherokees during their forced migration in 1883. "Pat Musick's work blends natural materials and minimalist forms to create mixed media work that is simultaneously simple and complex," says Drerup Gallery Director Catherine Amidon. A gallery talk, "Art, Ecology and Collaboration," is scheduled for 4-5 p.m. Wed., September 30 in the gallery. Two exhibitions open September 9 at the Silver Center for the Arts on Main Street in Plymouth, and run through September 26.
"The word and image relationship in this exhibition revives the tradition of intertwining different perceptual experiences," explains Amidon. Using a Canon 50D digital camera, Pallay prefers to use natural light to "put an impressionist twist on things." "Nature provides such amazing opportunities," said Pallay. "I like to have my breath taken away." In "Summer," Hall says of the pond, " this is not a circle of water/with a few ducks in it: it's/twenty-five acres, shaped like a humpbacked whale ". A gallery talk, "Word and Image," will be held from 4-5 p.m. Wed., September 16 at the Silver Center. The exhibition, Illustration by Gloria Kamen presents more than 20 pastel and watercolor portraits of classical composers, an expansion of work in her book, Hidden Music. The collection includes images of female composers that relate to the larger question of women's place in the world of music in their time. Gloria Kamen is an award-winning illustrator, particularly of children's books such as The Little Kingdom, Three Wishes for Abner, Second-Hand Cat, and the Betty Crocker Cookbook for Boys and Girls. "The varied background of each portrait is an attempt to create a sense of the varied types of music, some using an ethnic or popular mode, some creating a new style of their own," said Kamen. Other exhibitions in the fall semester are: Textiles: Pattern, Ornament, and Culture, October 7Ã?Â-December 5 at the Silver Center. This double exhibition explores aspects of broad textile history, manufacturing and design and follows the career of one individual, mapping how these aspects influence his work. The extensive career of textile designer Amin Kalaf brings to life three decades of American textile design. A panel discussion, "Weaving, Industry and Design," with Amin Kalaf, Danile Moore and Catherine Amidon will be held October 21 from 4-5 p.m. in Heritage Commons on Highland Street. Faculty Exhibition, November 4-December 9 at the Karl Drerup Art Gallery. An opportunity for students and members of the PSU community to become acquainted with Department of Art faculty outside the classroom, as artists working in a variety of media. Two gallery talks are planned in conjunction with this exhibition: "The Path of an Artist" on November 10 and "Artistic Philosophy" on November 18. Both talks are in the Karl Drerup Art Gallery at noon. . 2009 Faculty Exhibition, November 4-December 9 at the Karl Drerup Art Gallery. An opportunity for students and members of the PSU community to become acquainted with Department of Art faculty outside the classroom, as artists working in a variety of media. Karl Drerup Art Gallery hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Wednesday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and by appointment. Silver Center hours are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and weekends noon-5 p.m. All venues are closed most University holidays. Gallery information is available online at www.plymouth.edu/gallery or by calling the Karl Drerup Art Gallery, (603)535-2614. Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University. | ||||||||
| Changing the World: Renowned Energy Expert Amory Lovins Speaks at Plymouth State University
PLYMOUTH, N.H.-- The world's energy usage and dependence on fossil fuels could be reduced drastically through efficiency measures that are currently available, according to world-renowned energy efficiency expert Amory Lovins. Lovins, chairman and chief scientist of the Rocky Mountain Institute and one of Time magazine's 2009's 100 most influential people in the world, spoke September 1 at Plymouth State University, where he received a honorary doctorate degree of science. Lovins claims the world's dependence on fossil fuels is the crux of many political, climate and economic problems, and innovative technologies and business strategies currently available can be implemented to achieve a vastly improved quality of life within three decades. "We have a long way to go," Lovins said. "But it's cheaper to save fuel than to buy fuel; efficiency is cheaper than fuel, so actually we should be talking about profits, jobs and competitive advantage, which makes the politics a lot easier." Lovins noted many multi-national corporations are already saving billions of dollars through energy efficiency, which also reduces pollution from greenhouse gas emissions. Lovins asserts that the United States can wean itself from oil by 2040, led by businesses seeking profits. "We've already doubled the efficiency of oil since 1975, and it turns out we can double it again with an average cost of $12 per saved barrel. We can replace about 3/5 of the oil with natural gas and 2/5 advanced bio fuels that don't have anything to do with the food system." Lovins also says we can triple the efficiency of cars, trucks and airplanes by using ultra-light carbon fiber materials and smaller, lighter engines. As an example, Lovins says in most of today's passenger cars, only three-tenths of one percent of the total energy needed to move the vehicle is used to transport the passenger. "Three-quarters of what it takes to move the car is caused by its weight, and every unit of energy you save at the wheel saves another seven that you don't need to waste getting it to the wheels, so there's enormous leverage in making the car radically lighter weight, whether through metal or composite solutions." Lovins said electric energy efficiency is rapidly advancing in the U.S., but there is plenty of room for improvement. "70 percent of electricity produced in the U.S. is used by buildings, 30 percent is used by industry, and three-quarters of that is wasted," Lovins said. Lovins emphasizes alternative energy sources like wind, solar, geothermal and small hydro power, while optimizing energy efficient construction, which uses a fraction of the energy for heating and cooling. Lovins also believes that a comprehensive global energy strategy, based on efficiency technology, could eliminate the need for nuclear power, which, in turn, would reduce opportunities and incentives for nuclear proliferation that threaten world peace. Lovins is a MacArthur Fellowship recipient (1993), and author and co-author of dozens of books on energy efficiency, renewable energy, resources, climate, security, business, and other topics. Lovins has an unparalleled record of planning for the efficient use of diverse and renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, biofuels, and geothermal. He has led the redesign of over $30 billion worth of facilities in 29 sectors for energy and resource efficiency. He has briefed 20 heads of state, advised the U.S. Departments of Energy and Defense, and consulted for scores of industries and governments worldwide. According to www.RMI.org, Lovins' organization, the Rocky Mountain Institute, is a world-renowned organization whose mission is to drive the efficient and restorative use of resources. RMI's style is nonadversarial and transideological, emphasizing integrative design, advanced technologies, and mindful markets. For more information contact Christopher M. Williams, director of public relations, at cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476. Become a PSU fan on Facebook Follow PSU on Twitter | ||||||||
| Former NH Supreme Court Justice William Batchelder Honored
PLYMOUTH, N.H -- Over 100 friends and family came together to honor former State Supreme Court Justice William Batchelder at a surprise celebration at the Plymouth Common Man Inn Saturday, July 18. The event was the brainchild of the evening's hosts, Common Man Inn owner Alex Ray and the Reverend Sidney Lovett of Holderness. "Celebrating Bill Batchelder is long overdue," Lovett said. "Alex and I are thrilled that we were able to conspire with the Batchelder family and pull this surprise event together." Bill Batchelder "fellow traveler " "What makes this job worth doing? It is not the high moment when you have conducted the error-free trial," Souter said. "It is not being the appellate court judge who writes the opinion that is in the case books for the next generation. "What motivates us is extraordinarily simple. In a world with concentrations of power, there is a constant value in courtrooms. A place that is safe from that power. A place where that power is not going to be the determining factor. We don't think about these things everyday but they are in the back of our minds. "What we do think about are the colleagues we have who share these values," Souter continued. "People who are in it for the same reasons. They make it easier to bear the difficult days. Colleagues like Bill Batchelder. Bill and I sat together on two courts for a total of 12 years. We were friends before that. We will always be friends. I think this has been a lucky year for me. The omen for that is the fact that the first voice I heard on New Year's Day was Bill Batchelder's wishing me a Happy New Year. "This is symptomatic of a friendship that has not been interrupted by a great many absences. We may have been miles apart but we were traveling together. My contribution to this evening is to simply say, Bill, thanks for being a fellow traveler with me.'" For State Supreme Court Chief Justice John Broderick the opportunity to regularly spend time with Batchelder over the years means much to him. He enjoys catching up with his friend as they regularly meet for lunch in Ashland. "But it is the conversations we have while sitting in the car in his driveway after lunch that mean the most to me. Those moments are special. "I have benefitted from his friendship and wisdom," Broderick said. "When I think of Judge Batch' I think of quintessential New Hampshire. "He serves as an example to me as to what a judge should be. He is always interested in how to make things better and more just. This gathering is a testimonial to this." Walter Murphy had just graduated from college when he went to work for Batchelder in 1962. He was going to stay in New Hampshire for only two or three years and then move on. Forty-seven years later, he is still here and Batchelder is a primary reason for that. Murphy said that it was true that Batchelder was a great trial lawyer who was able to charm juries. "But Bill is more than that. He is an example of what it is that all people should be. He is a man for others. He has conducted his life that way," Murphy said. "I could not be more proud to be his friend and his partner." Former governor Walter Peterson, who appointed Batchelder to the State Superior Court in 1970, said that he had never met anyone who did not speak about Batchelder with the highest regard. "I have been able to call upon his wisdom. I have developed over the years a great respect for Bill Batchelder," Peterson said. Bill Batchelder " a medal to honor distinguished public service." "Today, we honor you for the ways in which you have exemplified the motto of Plymouth State University, Ut Prosim (That I may serve), and for the service you have given to Plymouth State University and its students and to the greater Plymouth community," Steen said. "You have been a leader in the town and community, improving social, economic, and cultural bonds. Your leadership in the courts will have a lasting effect on the consciousness of New Hampshire. "Tonight, Justice Batchelder, you are the first recipient of the Henry W. Blair medal for distinguished public service." Batchelder's distinguished service includes his decades as a lawyer, prosecutor, Superior Court Judge, and New Hampshire Supreme Court Justice; dedication to the historical importance of the town of Plymouth and the memory of the Nathanial P. Rogers family's fight for abolition; his foresight and vision in the creation of the Squam Lakes Science Center for the betterment of the wildlife and environment of the Lakes Region and New Hampshire; service to the United States Navy during World War II; and volunteer efforts on behalf of the Plymouth Rotary, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce, Pease Public Library, and Plymouth Historical Society. "Henry W. Blair also saw the potential and beauty of the people of Plymouth. In the spirit of his character, you have shaped a life around bettering a place that you love-and that obviously loves you back. "Justice Batchelder, there are many people who are here to honor you tonight," Steen said. "You have been a wise and generous friend, mentor and supporter, and that's why so many people want to be here this evening to say how much we think of you." This is the second time PSU has recognized Batchelder as he was the recipient of the Granite State Award for Community Service. Bill Batchelder the man Batchelder began his general trial practice in Plymouth in 1952 and practiced until his appointment as an Associate Justice of the Superior Court in August 1970. He was appointed to the State Supreme Court in July 1981. During his years of trial practice, Justice Batchelder was associated with the law firm of Batchelder & Murphy, and from 1959 to 1964 he was prosecuting attorney for Grafton County. Batchelder and his wife, Betty, were married in 1955. "He's a father of the times. Being a father in the'60s and '70s was different than being a father today," Batchelder's son Rob said. "I'd say he bordered on brilliant. For example, within a six and a half year period he and my mom had five kids-he changed one diaper!" In addition to their six children, the Batchelders have 13 grandchildren and "3.9 great grandchildren" as grandson Matt and his wife, Abigail, are expecting a daughter in the next several weeks. Professionally Batchelder has received the New Hampshire Bar Association's Professionalism Award and the New Hampshire Bar Association's President's Award for Service to the Profession. He also was awarded the Silver Shingle Award from Boston University Law School. While on the Superior Court, he was Chairman of the Sentence Review Division. He has been a member of the New Hampshire Judicial Council since 1987. In addition, he was, for a period of four years, a member of the Board of Directors of the American Judicature Society, and he is currently a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation. Bill Batchelder "Those who know him know them together " Betty Batchelder's role as Bill's life-long partner was not lost in this celebration. Nearly every speaker made mention of her. Chief Justice Broderick said he was a great admirer of both Bill and Betty. "Those who know him know them together." Alex Ray could not say one without the other, "It's always Bill and Betty, Bill and Betty." And their son Rob said, "He's called a lot of things -- Bill, your Honor, Judge, Billy. But to us, he's Dad. He's a fantastic Dad. But he wouldn't be a fantastic Dad without Mom." Over the course of the evening there were tall tales and heartwarming remembrances, awards and accolades, and even an accusation that he cheats at cribbage. "This was a complete surprise to me," Batchelder said later in the evening. "I am so thankful to everyone who came and for the Blair medal. This is a very, very special evening for me." So does he cheat at cribbage? Batchelder smiled and said, "I'll never tell." Congratulations, Bill and Betty. Please direct media queries to Christopher M. Williams, PSU Director of Public Relations at cwilliams@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| Plymouth State Named One of Nation's 'Great Colleges to Work For'
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Plymouth State University received national honors by being named one of the 2009 Great Colleges to Work For released by The Chronicle of Higher Education, today. PSU is recognized in eight categories and is one of two New Hampshire colleges or universities to earn a place on the Great Colleges to Work For list. PSU President Sara Jayne Steen said the ranking is particularly meaningful because employee response was the primary factor in deciding whether an institution was honored. "Plymouth State University is a place that is focused on our mission to educate students and encourages collaboration and mutual respect," Steen said. "To have that sense of teamwork reflected in national honors is rewarding and something of which all members of the Plymouth State community should be proud."
The Chronicle of Higher Education 2009 Great Colleges to Work For survey results were compiled from nearly 41,000 employee responses from over 300 colleges and universities nationwide. Sixty-five percent of PSU faculty and staff surveyed responded. 
PSU Director of Human Resources Laura Alexander said the survey results confirm that the University offers a rewarding work environment. "Plymouth has a unique participative culture and close-knit community feel, combined with an excellent array of core benefits that are important to people and becoming less common in the modern workplace," said Alexander. PSU's recognition in The Chronicle's Great Colleges to Work For program marks the second consecutive year that PSU has been recognized for its efforts to create an excellent work environment. In 2008 PSU was recognized by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation for the University's policies that support family and work/life balance. The award was sponsored by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation and conducted by the American Council on Education (ACE) with support from the Families and Work Institute and is based on policies and practices that support career flexibility for tenured and tenure-track faculty.
The Chronicle's Great Colleges to Work For�® program recognizes small groups of colleges (based on enrollment size) for specific best practices and policies in work environment, pay and benefits, and institutional policies. There are 26 recognition categories for four-year institutions, and 15 categories for community colleges. Among four-year colleges, 122 institutions were recognized in at least one category. Among two-year institutions, 28 were recognized in at least one category. For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations Christopher Williams, (603) 535-2476. | ||||||||
| Pakistani Educational Leadership Institute Prepares for Sixth Year at PSU
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- For the sixth consecutive year, Plymouth State University will host Pakistani educators as part of the Pakistani Educational Leadership Institute (PELI) from July 4 to August 2, 2009. Twenty educational leaders, recognized for their leadership capabilities, will attend this year's Pakistani Educational Leadership Institute. The educators represent secondary level public and public/private sectors and teacher training institutions. Refferred to as the "Plymouth Model" by Ambassador Nicholas Burns and other officials at the United States Department of State, PELI exposes Pakistani educators to American innovations in education for adaptation in Pakistan. The four-week Institute creates an atmosphere where Pakistani educators can come and immerse themselves in an inspiring and creative learning environment and work to enhance leadership capabilities to affect positive change in the educational environments and systems in their communities. PELI matches the resources of its College of Graduate Studies and taps its expertise to teach innovations and best practices in science education, interdisciplinary initiatives, and educational leadership that can be adapted for maximum efficacy to Pakistan's secondary school sector and in-country realities. This unique collaboration crosses boundaries and connects learning communities in New Hampshire and Pakistan. The program also engages the communities of the Lakes and White Mountains regions of New Hampshire in educational and cultural exchanges with the Pakistani delegates.
This year PELI alumni are playing a critical role in the development and implementation of the "Education in Emergency" model for use in humanitarian efforts to educate Pakistani children in refugee camps. Funded since 2003 from the United States Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, Plymouth State University has trained 100 educators in five summer institutes from all over Pakistan. According to statistics compiled by Lahore-based Pakistani partner Idara-e-Taleem-o-Aagahi, alumni of the program acting as master trainers in Pakistan have trained more than 100,000 educators. The Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs works closely with PSU and the Pakistani partner organization, Idara-e-Taleem-o-Aagahi, to ensure that the program curriculum reflects U.S.-Pakistan education cooperation goals. Additional Resources and Information
For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations Christopher Williams, (603) 535-2476. | ||||||||
| Veterans Common Dedicated at PSU 6/27
PLYMOUTH, N.H.-A Veterans Common honoring the service and sacrifice military veterans have made for our nation was dedicated Saturday, June 27 at Plymouth State University. About 100 people-most of whom were military veterans-attended the dedication ceremony as part of PSU's Alumni Weekend. "It's wonderful to dedicate the Veterans Common to honor those Plymouth State veterans who have served and are serving our country," PSU President Sara Jayne Steen said. "Our veteran alumni and those who are current students exemplify our school motto Ut Prosim That I may serve,' and play an important role in defining this university."
Sponsored by Phi Beta Upsilon-a fraternity which was started by veterans for veterans at Plymouth State in the early 1970s-the Veterans Common project began two years ago. It was born from an idea suggested by Franklin Powers '59, a retired colonel of the US Air Force, to hold a reunion for alumni who served in the military. As the reunion plans developed, the PSU Office of Alumni Relations worked to establish a place on campus to honor military alumni. "This is a small token of our never-ending gratitude for your service," Stephen King, president of the Phi Beta Upsilon Alumni Organization told the veterans. "The Common serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices you have made." When Vietnam-era veterans returned home from active duty they often found the reception they received to be less than warm. Recognizing this, four veterans attending Plymouth State formed Phi Beta Upsilon to create an encouraging and supportive environment for other veterans on campus. "The four founding members of this fraternity showed great foresight with their decision to create a safe place on campus for students who were returning from the war in Vietnam," wrote U.S Senator Judd Gregg in a letter to commemorate the event. "This memorial dedication today provides validation to that original idea and a lasting tribute to all who serve in the uniform of our armed services." The Veterans Common, located between Hyde Hall and High Street on the PSU campus, features a round brick-lined circular walk with granite monuments inscribed with the seals of military service branches. The PSU Alumni Association is also collecting oral histories from our alumni veterans to submit to the Veterans History Project. These collections of first-hand accounts will be archived in the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress for use by researchers and to serve as an inspiration for generations to come. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU Names Students to Spring 2009 Dean's List
PLYMOUTH, N.H.-Plymouth State University has named 343 students to the Dean's List for achieving a grade point average between 3.5 and 3.69 during the spring semester of the 2008-2009 academic year. To be eligible for the Dean's List students must have attempted at least 12 credit hours during the semester. These credit hours must be in courses that earn grade points and students must have completed all such courses attempted. Students named to the PSU Dean's List include: ~ A ~ Matthew Acker , Litchfield, NH Brieanna Alati , Manchester, NH Jacqueline Albers , Henniker, NH Cara Allen , Tustin, CA Jessica Allen , Epsom, NH Megan Amboian , Methuen, MA Emily Anderson , Sutton, NH Madeline Andrews , Farmington, CT Dane Antolino , Exeter, NH Aaron Ashburner , Barrington, NH Derek Audette , Lincoln, RI Peter Austin , Marlborough, NH ~ B ~ Jessica Babino , Scarborough, ME Kima Bacevicius , Walpole, MA Francis Balantic , Center Conway, NH Benjamin Baldi , Gaylordsville, CT Seth Banks , Belmont, NH Jamie Barrett , Henniker, NH Alana Barron , Middleton, NH Stephanie Barton , Portsmouth, NH Maegen Bassett , Fremont, NH Matthew Bausch , Manchester, NH Alexa Beal , Grantham, NH Megan Beaucage , Milton, VT Melinda Beaulieu , Gorham, NH Kyle Belanger , Southington, CT Paul Bell , Center Conway, NH Samantha Bennett , Franklin, NH Jena Bergevin , Allenstown, NH Katherine Berna , Kingston, MA Erik Bernard , Manchester, NH Drew Berube , Lyndon Center, VT Emily Berube , Bourne, MA Emma Beseda , Portland, ME Rachel Best , North Kingstown, RI Adam Bofinger , Lancaster, PA Cody Booth , Manchester, NH Heather Bourgeois , Jaffrey, NH Christopher Boyle , , Emily Boynton , Northfield, NH Ashlee Brackett , Farmington, NH Meghan Bray , North Attleboro, MA Michael Brian , Bedford, NH Robert Bridgman , Groton, CT Nicole Brodeur , Claremont, NH Jillian Bromley , Lisbon, NH Jessica Brown , Dover, NH Julie-Anne Bruno , Derry, NH Emily Bryant , Anchorage, AK Lauren Burbank , Bedford, NH Holly Burbank , Campton, NH John Burnett , Whitman, MA Nicole Bushnell , Meredith, NH ~ C ~ Alexander Cabeceiras , Collinsville, CT Catharine Campbell , Wentworth, NH Ryan Campbell , Derry, NH Megan Campbell , Bath, NH Duncan Campbell , Bristol, NH Justin Campo , Londonderry, NH Nicole Carter , Amesbury, MA Chelsea Cary , Westmoreland, NH Natalie Cavallo , Plymouth, MA Janelle Chiles , North Andover, MA Carmen Christopherson , Keene, NH Emily Clark , Derry, NH Robert Cloutier , Londonderry, NH Benjamin Cole , Kennebunk, ME Neil Colicchio , Groton, MA Patrick Connolly , Newton, NH Kristina Conroy , Wakefield, MA Chelsey Cook , Meredith, NH Nicole Copple , Keene, NH Courtney Corriveau , Bangor, ME Katlyn Cote , Hooksett, NH Lauren Cote , Keene, NH Katie Cotnoir , Pembroke, NH Jordan Couillard , Chester, NH Chelsi Coulombe , Bristol, NH Jessica Covey , Mont Vernon, NH Seth Coyner , Ossipee, NH Heather Crane , Concord, NH Breanna Crawley , Windham, NH Sean Cronin , Beverly, MA Michael Cummings , Manchester, NH Allison Curran , Londonderry, NH Ashleigh Currier , Holderness, NH Jake Curtin , Concord, NH Damon Curtis , Weymouth, MA Shannon Curtis , Dover, NH Christopher Cymbura , Nashua, NH ~ D ~ Kerry D'Ambroise , Lowell, MA Kylie D'Arcangelo , Brookfield, CT Ryan Day , Campton, NH Nicole DeGrandpre , Epping, NH Aimee Delisle-Hall , Lynn, MA Patrick Derov , Manchester, NH April Deschenes , Center Conway, NH Adrien Deshaies , Biddeford, ME Karen Dietz , Concord, NH Patrick Dolabany , , Kevin Donohue , Manchester, NH Kelly Donovan , Milton, MA Amanda Dow , Gilmanton, NH Kelley Dow , Ashland, NH Amy Dresser , West Arlington, VT Samantha Dube , Danville, NH Travis Ducharme , Raymond, NH Casie Dumont , Lincoln, NH Michelle Dupere , Plymouth, NH Heather Dupuis , Newton, NH Erin Duquette , Winchester, NH Kirby Dwyer , Barrington, RI ~ E ~ Jennifer Eaton , Salem, NH Bradford Emerton , Moultonboro, NH Julianne England , Easton, NH ~ F ~ Robert Feeny , Chichester, NH Alexis Ficek , Strafford, NH Alexander Finley , Lyme, NH Cory Flack , Loudon, NH Dorothy Fletcher , Plymouth, NH Sam Folopoulos , Seabrook, NH ~ G ~ Michael Gallant , Ipswich, MA Emily Galli , Freeport, ME Caroline Gamble , Sunapee, NH Andrew Garozzo , Keene, NH Alicia Garside , Londonderry, NH Patrick George , Newmarket, NH Briana Gervais , Gorham, ME Michael Gifford , Latham, NY Brandon Gilbert , Berlin, NH Sarah Gilbert , Waitsfield, VT Adah Gillon , Vernon, CT Kate Ginter , Wakefield, NH Michael Glennon , Hanson, MA Stacy Goldthwaite , South Tamworth, NH Katherine Goller , Williston, VT Pavel Gonzalez , , Anne Goodwin , Belmont, NH Tim Gosselin , Meredith, NH Nicholas Grande , Bedford, NH John Grandi , South Royalton, VT Alaina Granter , Claremont, NH Christopher Graveline , Feeding Hills, MA Karly Gray , Southampton, MA Hilary Groff , Bedford, NH Erin Grube , Londonderry, NH Gracelyn Guenard , Cumberland, RI Stephanie Guilbeault , Dunbarton, NH ~ H ~ Lindsey Hagmeier , Merrimack, NH Gregory Hamilton , Braintree, MA Kaleena Hamlin , Seal Cove, ME Amanda Harriman , Berlin, NH Joshua Harrington , North Sutton, NH Steven Harris , , Amanda Hebert , Lincoln, NH Abigail Heffron , Methuen, MA Anika Hertel-Therrien , Ashburnham, MA James Higgins , South Boston, MA Alexander Hight , Morrisville, VT Heidi Hildreth , Winchester, NH Lindsay Hill , Mt. Chase, ME Corey Hill , Manchester, NH Douglas Hill , Ann Arbor, MI Sarah Hjelm , Winnisquam, NH Kathryn Holtgrewe , Boscawen, NH Bryan Horrigan , Brookfield, WI Ian Howe , Lyndeborough, NH Andrew Huckins , Plymouth, NH Benjamin Hunt , Salisbury, NH Matthew Hunter , Derry, NH Taylor Huntley , Peterborough, NH Katherine Huss , Chester, NH Johnathan Hutchens , New London, NH Jonathan Hvizdak , Griswold, CT ~ I ~ Elise Innis , Harpswell, ME ~ J ~ Heather Jacques , Salem, NH Bianca Jacques , Hudson, NH Marisa Johnson , Londonderry, NH Kaitlin Jones , Norwalk, CT Danielle Joyce , Essex, VT Allison Juranty , Allenstown, NH ~ K ~ Ryan Kaake , Phippsburg, ME Christopher Kazanovicz , Francestown, NH Erin Keating , North Andover, MA Daniel Kelly , Londonderry, NH Matthew Kiley , Mansfield, MA Zigmund Korenkiewicz , Norwich, CT Nataniel Kotlyar , Sharon, MA ~ L ~ Christina Labriola , Westerly, RI Griffin LaFleur , Sandwich, MA Megan Lane , Plymouth, NH Tatum Langelier , lisbon, NH Ashley Languirand , Hampstead, NH Michael Lannon , Sharon, MA Clair Larsen , Westmoreland, NH Ross Laughton , Clarksville, NH Jonathan Layden , Durham, NH Jennifer Leeds , Brookline, NH Nathan Legere , Northwood, NH Mckenzie Letzring , Danvers, MA Tracy Lindquist , Canton, MA Caitlin Little , Scituate, MA Brendan Livingston , Milton, MA Stacy Lyons , Thornton, NH ~ M ~ Christopher MacDonald , Arlington, MA William MacDougall , Mechanicsville, VA Kathleen MacEwen , Wrentham, MA Randi MacKay , North Woodstock, NH Tiffany MacKenzie , Pembroke, NH Kerri MacPherson , Rumford, ME Elizabeth Manley , Montpelier, VT Shawn Marach , Sparta, NJ Justin Martin , Lincoln, NH Kelsey Marvin , Elizabethtown, NY Heather Mason , Deerfield, NH Ashley Mattson , Concord, NH Ashley Maxner , Ashland, NH Kayla May , Dedham, MA Marjorie McCue , Woburn, MA John McGaw , Rumney, NH Courtney McLaughlin , Bellingham, MA Jana McLoughlin , Plymouth, NH Kelsey McPherson , Durham, ME Sydney Medugno , Hooksett, NH Craig Meyer , , Kaylee Michalenoick , Cornish, NH Reana Michaud , Benton, ME Ryan Miscik , Kenvil, NJ Erika Moore , Salem, NH Antonello Morelli , Colchester, CT Abbie Morin , Laconia, NH Amanda Morris , Manchester, NH Michael Morrison , Strafford, NH Roxanne Morrison , Westborough, MA Shawn Moseley , Hooksett, NH Courtney Moser , Concord, NH Jaimie Mudgett , Milton, NH Laura Mulvey , Canton, MA Stephanie Myles , Merrimack, NH ~ N ~ Samantha Naas , South Hero, VT Meaghan Naughton , Holliston, MA Ashley Neagle , Chester, NH Olivia Nelson , Lee, NH Alicia Norcross , West Ossipee, NH Molly Normandin , Bedford, NH Meredith Nunes , Northborough, MA ~ O ~ Jaimie O'Brien , Bennington, NH Daniela O'Lena , Manchester, NH Bradley Olmstead , Manchester, NH Janelle O'Neil , Harrisville, NH Brittany O'Neill , Brewster, MA Joseph Orlando , Whitefield, NH ~ P ~ Henry Padden , Palmer, MA Elizabeth Page , Nashua, NH Katherine Page , Newport, VT Katie Palmer , Colebrook, NH Calista Palmer , Littleton, NH Amanda Parshley , Plaistow, NH Zachary Parsons , Florance, MA Amanda Pelletier , Nashua, NH Mackenzie Perra , Goffstown, NH Kristin Persaud , Rocky Hill, CT Frances Pettengill , Dartmouth, MA Jeremy Phillips , Hudson, NH Brittany Piet , Manchester, NH Timothy Pietrasik , Bedford, MA Adam Plante , woodsville, NH John Pogorzelski , Hillsborough, NJ Nicholas Ponte , Hampton, NH Grace Poulin , Manchester, NH Nicole Poutasse , Wellesley, MA Janelle Prevost , Pembroke, NH ~ Q ~ Patrick Quinn , Alton, NH ~ R ~ Mark Raffle , Chalfont, PA Katherine Regan , Hallowell, ME Nora Regan , West Hartford, CT Stephanie Regina , Howell, NJ Ashley Reid , Chelmsford, MA Katelyn Reynolds , Hinsdale, NH Christopher Ritter , Nashua, NH Justin Rivard , Smithfield, RI Danielle Robichaud , Gorham, NH Donald Robinson , Woodsville, NH Christopher Roche , Laconia, NH Garison Rogacki , South Hampton, NH Aaron Rothstein , Manchester, NH Adam Rourke , Farmington, NH Aaron Runner , Alpharetta, GA Erin Ryan , Portsmouth, NH Alexander Rybak , Littleton, NH ~ S ~ Brieanna Salerno , Lake George, NY Julie SantaMaria , Wakefield, MA Ryann Sargent , Center Barnstead, NH Faaron Savage , Shoreham, VT Brian Sawyer , Mansfield, MA Johanna Schillemat , Nelson, NH Allen Schneider , Cleveland, OH Kyle Schofield , Concord, NH Jesse Sears , Dartmouth, MA Heather Shalvey , Warwick, RI Michael Shanahan , Campton, NH Nathan Simard , Shelburne, NH William Skantze , Bristol, NH Jason Smith , Hudson, NH Molly Smith , Durham, NH Kevin Smith , Merrimack, NH Grace Sniffen , Redding, CT Sarah Spears , Meredith, NH Christopher Spencer , Hudson, NH Taylor Stamulis , Fremont, NH Kyle Sullivan , Millis, MA Brendon Swanson , Barrington, RI ~ T ~ Amanda Tanguay , Dayton, ME Marc Tardiff , Merrimack, NH Christian Taylor , Fremont, NH Matthew Teperow , Andover, MA Casey Terry , Hillsboro, NH Amanda Terry , Amesbury, MA Jonathon Thompson , Bedford, NH Jessica Thompson , Plaistow, NH Arielle Tiner , Hampstead, NH Samuel Tolley , Weare, NH Miranda Trahan , Weare, NH Adam Tranchida , Pawcatuck, CT Felicia Truman , Keene, NH Lauren Turner , Newton, MA Kiera Tuttle , Bristol, NH ~ U ~ Matthew Unger , Concord, NH David Unger , Concord, NH ~ V ~ Michael Vahey , Fremont, NH Jacob Vallimont , Union City, PA Alicia Vassallo , Manchester, NH Lena Veinotte , Campton, NH Jeffrey Viel , Charlton, MA Alysha Volkman , Manchester, NH ~ W ~ Julia Walker , Woolwich, ME Andrew Wallace , Mattapoisett, MA Brea Walters , Auburn, NH Justin Weisberger , Greenville, RI Bradley White , Plymouth, NH Ryann Willard , Chesnee, SC Heather Wyman , Wolfeboro, NH ~ Y ~ Tyler York , Bedford, NH | ||||||||
| PSU Names Students to Spring 2009 President's List
Plymouth State University has named 480 students to the President's List for achieving a grade point average of 3.7 or better during the spring semester of the 2008-2009 academic year. To be eligible for the President's List students must have attempted at least 12 credit hours during the semester. These credit hours must be in courses that earn grade points and students must have completed all such courses attempted. Students named to the PSU President's List include: ~ A ~ Kristen Abbott , Londonderry, NH Andrew Acuna , Paxton, MA Alexandra Albrecht , Canterbury, NH Susan Aldrich , Grantham, NH Lee Allard , Lebanon, ME Paul Allen , Burlington, MA Christopher Ander , Randolph, MA John Andersch , Concord, NH Kelsea Anderson , Rye, NH Ashley Aselton , Plymouth, NH Lindsey Aubin , Gorham, NH Hilary Austin , Pittsfield, NH Nicholas Ayotte , Berlin, NH ~ B ~ Eliza Badeau , Foster, RI Lisa Bailey , Tuftonboro, NH Elizabeth Baldwin , Pawtucket, RI Ellen Baldwin , Stow, MA Matthew Balfe , Belmont, NH Tess Barbato , Ashland, NH Justin Barnum , Bath, NH Margaret Barrett , Manchester, NH Leanne Barry , Auburn, NH Kristen Beadon , Bondville, VT Kelsee Beaudin , Lincoln, NH Pecco Beaufays , East Andover, NH Heather Beaulieu , Beverly, MA Daniel Bell , Center Conway, NH Devin Bell , Minot, ND Larissa Beloin , Colebrook, NH Lauren Bergeron , New Hampton, NH Andre Beriau , East Falmouth, MA Justine Berry , Manchester, NH Jaime Bianco , Fairfield, CT Ashley Bissonnette , Saco, ME Barton Blanchard , Plymouth, NH Stephanie Blanchette , Allenstown, NH Jill Boisvert , Bow, NH Elizabeth Bolton , Exeter, RI Janelle Bonvouloir , Goffstown, NH Shannon Booth , Campton, NH Shannon Bouchard , Manchester, NH Megan Bourbeau , Bow, NH Regan Bowlen , Portsmouth, NH James Brady , Beverly, MA Jesse Brandow , Wolfeboro Falls, NH Nicole Brant , North Haverhill, NH Kristi Brasley , Bedford, NH Ray Brassington , New Albany, PA Tracy Brigham , Alton, NH Zak Brohinsky , Simsbury, CT Zachary Brooks , Seabrook, NH Elena Bulanova , Lincoln, NH Heidi Burns , Enfield, NH Julie Burr , Ashland, NH Kristen Buttacavoli , Griswold, CT Sara Byers , Rumney, NH ~ C ~ Marie-Louise Callahan , Milford, NH Danielle Calligandes , New Hampton, NH Jaimie Camara , Portsmouth, RI Katelyn Campbell , Loudon, NH Nathan Campbell , Keene, NH Jessica Cardow , Manchester, NH Erin Carlson , Middleton, NH Rachel Carlson , Loudon, NH Katie-Lynn Carlton , Smithfield, RI Kerrin Carney , Bellingham, MA Jared Carver , Bartlett, NH Victoria Cash , Portland, ME Christopher Chambers , Crofton, MD Rebecca Chappell , Campton, NH Brian Chaput , North Hampton, NH Charlee-Ann Charron , Campton, NH Elizabeth Chartrand , Rindge, NH Nayive Chase , Milford, NH Sarah Clermont , Meredith, NH Molly Cohen , Holliston, MA Suzanne Cohoon , Cranston, RI Stephen Colby , Laconia, NH Jessica Cole , Campton, NH Jillian Collins , Meredith, NH Elizabeth Collman , Franconia, NH Stephen Condon , Claremont, NH Greg Confer , Amherst, NH Alyse Conlon , Westwood, MA Nicholas Connell , Meredith, NH Susan Connolly , Bridgewater, NH John Conroy , Ashaway, RI Amanda Cook , Newport, VT Sarah Cootey , Burlington, VT Christopher Corey , Warner, NH Anthony Cormier , Bedford, NH Heather Cote , Derry, NH Nathan Cote , Windham, NH Lauri Cotter , Moultonborough, NH Jessica Coulombe , Manchester, NH Joseph Coulter , Manchester, NH Jessica Couto , Bow, NH Amanda Crean , Goffstown, NH Megan Crooker , Nashua, NH Ryan Cross , Barre, VT ~ D ~ Robert Dabrieo , Woburn, MA Joseph Daltorio , Croydon, NH Natalie Damaso , Hialeah, FL Jamie Daniels , Danville, NH Corine Daniels , Gorham, NH Lauren Davies , Plaistow, NH Natalie Delisle , Gorham, NH Jacob Desmarais , Goffstown, NH Alyssa Dethlefs , Henniker, NH Shaun Dever , Plymouth, MA Mary Devlin , Keene, NH Katie Dexter , Littleton, NH Kerry Dickenson , Bath, NH Kristen DiMatteo , Londonderry, NH Brittany Dimmick , Underhill, VT Benjamin DiZoglio , Hudson, NH Brian Doherty , Amherst, NH Margaret Donaldson , Andover, NH David Dow , Lincoln, NH Jessica Dube , Danville, NH Kevin Dubia , Franklin, NH Kimberly DuBois , Nashua, NH Shane Dudash , Loudon, NH Colleen Dugal , Litchfield, NH Katherin Dunn , Candia, NH Rory Dunphy , Deerfield, NH Laura Dunwoody , Brookfield, VT Wendy Dziedzic , Nashua, NH ~ E ~ Jessie Earl , Tyngsboro, MA Heather Eich , Stark, NH Nicholas Esposito , Shrewsbury, MA Bobby-Ann Estes , Derry, NH ~ F ~ Shane Falconer , Carver, MA Matthew Feehan , Nashua, NH Abbey Filiault , New Boston, NH Jessica Finley , Lyme, NH Joshua Fisher , Framingham, MA Catherine Fisher , Phillipston, MA Matthew Flanagan , Merrimack, NH Jonathan Flanders , Newbury, NH Tracy Flanigan , Silver Lake, NH Kevin Ford , Hollis, NH Julie Formidoni , Claremont, NH Seth Fournier , Manchester, NH Andrew Frankel , Penacook, NH Christine Franquet , Loudon, NH Jennifer Frappier , Pascoag, RI Christina Fredericksen , Nashua, NH Caitlin Friend , Laconia, NH Adam Frumkin , Merrimack, NH Kaitlyn Fydenkevez , Bozrah, CT ~ G ~ Michaela Galvin , Windham, NH Callie Garp , Loudon, NH Samantha Garran , Rochester, NH Gwyn Gauthier , Barre, VT Leah Gay , Taunton, MA Jeffrey Gemma , Lincoln, RI Monica Gemmiti , Mont Vernon, NH Christopher Gerda , Waltersburg, PA Lauren Germano , Glastonbury, CT Michele Giordano , Plymouth, NH Mario Giordano , Campton, NH Curtis Girginoff , hudson, NH Brittney Gondek , South Glastonbury, CT Andrew Gordon , Manchester, NH Jonathan Goulette , Dover, NH Meredith Gourley , Weare, NH Ashley Grace , Wilmot, NH Erin Granger , Peterborough, NH Amy Green , Atkinson, NH Victoria Green , New Milford, CT Sarah Greene , Concord, NH Sarah Gregoire , Auburn, NH Sarah Gross , Concord, NH Kyle Grotevant , Sandwich, MA Nicole Grover , Yarmouth, ME Lara Gruner , Center Barnstead, NH Ashley Gutowski , Conway, NH ~ H ~ Robert Hagy , Penacook, NH Tyler Hanatow , Alstead, NH Alyssa Hanchett , Rochester, NH Robert Hand , Millbury, MA Deanna Harding , Hillsboro, NH Courtney Harnish , Laconia, NH Chantal Harp , Grafton, NH Jessica Hayden , Hebron, CT David Heeps , Oxford, MA Sarah Hermans , Exeter, NH Laura Hester , Raymond, NH John Hickey , Nashua, NH Claire Higgins , Westminster, MA Kristen Hill , Amherst, NH Theresa Hill , Franklin, NH Megan Hoar , Webster, NH Rebecca Holmes , Nashua, NH Amanda Hook , Ossipee, NH Daniel Hopper , Gilford, NH Linda Hough , Meredith, NH Laura Howland , Sugar Hill, NH Jessica Hughson , Boscawen, NH Lindsay Hutchinson , West Dennis, MA Jeremy Hutchinson , , ~ J ~ Leigh Jackmauh , New Hampton, NH Adam Jackson , Sunapee, NH Sarah Jacobson , Litchfield, NH Allison Jangel , Claremont, NH Zackary Jewell , Alexandria, NH Michael Johnson , Contoocook, NH Gregory Johnson , Northborough, MA Ryan Johnson , Bedford, NH Brooke Johnson , Walpole, MA Sara Joncas , Laconia, NH Brian Jones , Concord, NH Elizabeth Jones , Milan, NH Lauren Joyce , Moultonborough, NH Lori Julius , Plymouth, NH ~ K ~ Samuel Karelitz , Durham, NH Abigail Karwacki , Manchester, NH Michelle Kelly , Hill, NH Laura Kent , Bellingham, MA Joan Kietzman , Plymouth, NH Crystal Knapp , Bethlehem, NH Kelli Kneeland , Rowley, MA Christina Kolb , Gilford, NH Emily Kronhaus , Reading, MA ~ L ~ Aimee LaBarre , Manchester, NH Chad LaFlamme , , Jessica Lamb , Claremont, NH Jessica Lamb , Salem, NH Alison Lamy , Manchester, NH Corey Lapointe , Berlin, NH Katie Laro , Allenstown, NH Brittany Larrabee , Winooski, VT Dana Larsen , North Andover, MA Jared Lauze , Berlin, NH Amy Lavoie , Merrimack, NH Angie Lavoie , Ashland, NH William Leatham , Shrewsbury, MA Michael LeBrun , Litchfield, NH Brian Ledoux , Nashua, NH Thomas Ledoux , Nashua, NH Lindsey Legere , Swampscott, MA Megan Lemire , Franconia, NH Katherine Lenhart , Norwich, VT Sean Leonard , Concord, NH Katie Leverson , Pembroke, NH Katrina Levesque , East Kingston, NH Christopher Lind , Hooksett, NH Molly Lindh , Epsom, NH Jessica Lindley , Deerfield, NH Katelyn Lorden , Amesbury, MA Amanda Lowe , Yarmouth, ME Katie Lozano , Woolwich, ME Diana Luter , Amherst, NH Brady Lynch , Amherst, NH Caitlin Lynch , Lynnfield, MA Angela Lynch , North Conway, NH Brent Lyons , Colebrook, NH Jessica Lyons , Abington, MA ~ M ~ Karen MacDonald , Thornton, NH James MacDonald , Methuen, MA Daniel Mackin , Ashland, NH Cortney MacNeil , Hope Vally, RI Brian Mahoney , Concord, NH Christopher Malbon , North Smithfield, RI David Maloney , Bridgewater, NH Bridget Manning , Brookfield, NH Jessica Marker , Campton, NH Amber Marsh , Intervale, NH Robert Martin , Waltham, MA Meredith Mattson , Campton, NH Greta Maynard , West Newbury, VT Bethany Mayo , Center Conway, NH Ryan McCall , Bedford, NH Edwin McCarron , Groton, MA Kathleen McGuire , Northfield, NH Michael McIntyre , North Andover, MA Amy McKelvey , Newbury, VT Matthew McKinnon , Newington, CT Thomas Meagher , Milford, NH Charles Mease , Mercersburg, PA Semir Mehmedovic , Concord, NH Kristin Melendy , Campton, NH Elysia Michaelsen , Plymouth, MN Sarah Miller , Richmond, VT Scott Monighetti , Warwick, RI Rebecca Monticelli , Concord, NH Jennifer Mooney , Whitman, MA Nathan Moreau , Bedford, NH Bethany Moretti , Woonsocket, RI James Morgan , Warner, NH Elisia Morgani , Ipswich, MA Krystal Morin , Plaistow, NH Erin Morrison , Charlestown, NH Jeremy Morse , Pittsfield, NH Ashley Morse , Wilton, NH Elizabeth Mosher , Fogelsville, PA Kamrie Moulton , Gorham, NH Alison Moynihan , Belmont, NH Sarah Murchie , Portland, ME Cassandra Murphy , Derry, NH Melissa Murphy , , Bethany Myers , Tewksbury, MA ~ N ~ Holly Nelsen , South Thomaston, ME Jacqueline Nelson , Newbury, NH Christopher Newell , Monument Beach, MA James Nichols , Harwich, MA Julie Nichols , Merrimack, NH ~ O ~ Greggory Oberg , Camarillo, CA Korey O'Brien , Nashua, NH Morgan O'Connell , North Smithfield, RI Leeanne O'Connor , Franklin, NH Aimee O'Connor , Londonderry, NH Jarika Olberg , Rochester, NH Jessica Olson , Franklin, MA Jeri Orbison , Raymond, NH Nicholas Ortakales , Laconia, NH James Osborn , Lexington, MA Sarah Otis , Meredith, NH ~ P ~ Kimberly Paniagua , Mira Loma, CA Daniel Papalia , Hudson, MA Gina Pappa , Lancaster, NH Lauren Parent , Berlin, NH Ashley Park , Rochester, NH Nathan Pasquale , Millbury, MA Jaclyn Patterson , Newton Junction, NH Carl Pearl , Canterbury, NH Brandee Peglow , Pelham, NH Angela Pellegrino , Danbury, NH Jessica Pelletier , Concord, NH Lisa Pelosi , Reading, MA Abby Perkins , Westbrook, ME Julie Perry , Vineyard Haven, MA Brian Pevear , Northfield, NH Brittany Phelps , Bow, NH Justin Phenney , Brunswick, OH Carol Phillips , Plymouth, NH Elizabeth Pienkosz , Meriden, CT Michael Pierce , Orford, NH Ashley Pieszchala , Moultonborough, NH Lauren Pineau , Little Compton, RI Joseph Pipitone , Jaffrey, NH Claire Pirnie , Campton, NH Douglas Plumley , Enfield, NH Heather Poitras , Thornton, NH Timothy Polhemus , New Milford, CT Nathan Porter , Madison, NH Aaron Powers , Manchester, NH Joel Pratt , Merrimac, MA Bethany Prince , North Adam, MA Olivia Pristera , Concord, NH Corinne Provost , Allenstown, NH Cynthia Pytel , Lincoln, RI ~ R ~ Samantha Raboin , Westfield, VT Alissa Raboin , Newport, VT Kaela Raku , Wolfeboro, NH Ashley Rasicot , North Attleboro, MA Janie Rattigan , Bedford, NH Michael Ravelson , Shrewsbury, MA Kathryn Reczko , Hollis, NH Stacey Reed , Sheldon, VT Kellie Reid , Braintree, MA Alyssa Reid , Mechanic Falls, ME Ann Remillard , Groveton, NH Jesse Renauld , Campton, NH Kristopher Reynolds , Pembroke, NH Elizabeth Rice , Rochester, NH Nicole Riendeau , Berlin, NH Lisa Riley , Lincoln, NH Miles Roberge , Franklin, NH Joshua Roberti , Cranston, RI Keith Robertie , Brentwood, NH Elyse Robertie , Rumney, NH Christopher Roberts , Laconia, NH David Roberts , Berlin, NH Brandon Robertson , Sandown, NH Julia Robida , West Hartford, CT Kathleen Roland , Norton, MA Ashley Rose , Hinsdale, NH Jonathan Ross , Barre, VT Jacob Ross , Barre, VT Lachlan Ross , Bradford, PA Taylor Rowley , Ashford, CT Jessica Roy , Berlin, NH Rebecca Roy , Lewiston, ME Eliza Roy-Webb , Durham, NH Mary Rufiange , Hudson, NH Michaela Rupp , East Providence, RI ~ S ~ Timothy Sacco , Loudon, NH Jilienne Savoie , Rochester, NH Danielle Schacht , Londonderry, NH Amber Schaefer , Center Harbor, NH Erika Scialdone , Cumberland, RI Justin Scoppetto , Berlin, NH John Sears , Salem, NH Nathan Severance , Plymouth, NH Katelyn Shaffer , Manchester, NH Allison Shenloogian , Wilmington, MA Amanda Sherburne , Rumney, NH Keith Sidle , North Stonington, CT David Silva , Claremont, NH Melissa Silverberg , Mattapoisett, MA Laurel Simone , Wolfeboro, NH Jeffrey Sirois , Kensington, CT Alyssa Smart , Bellingham, MA Angela Smith , Holderness, NH Samantha Smith , Woodstock, CT Emily Snidman , Sharon, MA Matthew Sordillo , Peterborough, NH Christopher Soule , Manchester, NH Meghan Spenard , Bedford, NH Samantha Spence , Raymond, NH Jonathan Spigler , Greencastle, PA Denise Sprague , Wolfeboro, NH Michelle Stephens , Westmoreland, NH Krysten Stewart , Gilford, NH Zachary Stoppe , Natick, MA Derek Sullivan , Smithfield, RI Maura Sullivan , Salem, NH ~ T ~ Sara Tantillo , Enfield, NH David Tardif , New Hampton, NH Amanda Teneriello , Hudson, NH Susanne Theriault , Hampstead, NH Matthew Therrien , Chichester, NH Emily Thorner , Northwood, NH Benjamin Thresher , Claremont, NH Kate Thurston , Plymouth, NH Chelsea Tillotson , Bradford, VT Janice Tilton , Rochester, NH Cassidy Torrey , Moultonborough, NH John Toussaint , New Milford, CT Bryan Tracy , Manchester, NH Aaron Treadwell , Washington, NH Brittany Treichel , Clinton, CT Molly Tremblay , Peabody, MA Marni Trompetter , Warren, CT Elizabeth True , Meredith, NH Heather Tsouprakakis , Danville, NH Alison Turkos , Underhill, VT ~V ~ Colin VanDenBerghe , Laconia, NH Nathan Verry , Beverly, MA Michael Vignone , Franklin, MA Caitlin Vogt , Bath, NH Erin Vogt , Dedham, MA Fredrik VonSivers , Stockholm, ~W ~ Katelynn Walden , Merrimack, NH Carrie Waldron , Meredith, NH Quinn Walker , Buffalo, MO Kimberly Wall , Peterborough, NH Jonathan Wani , Ashland, NH Sarah Ward , Spofford, NH Genevieve Wargo , Meredith, NH Sally Warren , Durham, NH Erin Warren , East Kingston, NH Lindsey Weaving , Southbury, CT Christopher Welch , South Burlington, VT Matthew Wellmann , Laconia, NH Ashley Wentworth , West Paris, ME Christopher Westfield , , Kevin Whalen , Wallingford, CT Tonya White , Newport, VT Caitlin White , Danville, NH Dominique Whiton , Penacook, NH Trafton Wilbur , Campton, NH Julie Wilde , Marshfield, MA Nicole Wilmot , Deering, NH Elizabeth Wilson , Manchester, NH Sarah Winship , Temple, NH Monica Wojtas , Salem, NH Jana Wolf , Manius, NY Yvonne Wolfson , Plymouth, NH Douglas Woodward , Manchester, NH Kyle Worth , Bow, NH Kate Worthen , Moultonboro, NH Jennifer Wyatt , Laconia, ~Y ~ Craig Yergeau , Bedford, NH Rheanna York , Twin Mountain, NH Clifford Young , Nottingham, NH Katelyn Yunes , Derry, NH Jon-Philip Zamarron , Deerfield, NH | ||||||||
| Gov. Lynch Swears In PSU Professor Dr. Virginia Barry as Commissioner of Education
CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch today swore in Plymouth State University Professor Dr. Virginia Barry of Bridgewater to serve as the state's next Commissioner of Education. The Executive Council unanimously confirmed Gov. Lynch's nomination of Dr. Barry on May 6. "Education is the most important investment we make in the future of our state and its economy. Ginny Barry is an exceptional educational leader who has worked at every level of education - from elementary school teacher to college administrator," Gov. Lynch said in a written statement from his office. "She understands the importance of making sure we offer a high quality education to children from early childhood through college. I look forward to working closely with her as we continue to work to improve education in New Hampshire." Barry has devoted her career to education, serving as a longtime professor and administrator at Plymouth State University. She has held numerous positions at Plymouth State including professor of advanced graduate studies, provost and vice president for academic affairs, and acting president from June 2003 to January 2004. PSU President Sara Jayne Steen praised Barry's nomination. "Virginia Barry will be a wonderful Commissioner. She brings to the position leadership experience across the educational levels, knowledge of the state's educational opportunities, and an energy and intelligence that will serve New Hampshire well," Steen said. Barry has been widely recognized for her educational expertise, receiving PSU's Harold E. Hyde Award for Distinguished Educational Leadership, the College of Graduate Studies Award for Outstanding Transformational Leadership, the Distinguished Teaching Award, and the New York State Award for Support of People with Disabilities. She has excelled in teaching and scholarship that has benefited New Hampshire schools. Barry has also provided professional development training for clinics, hospitals, and schools, and has received over $2,000,000 in grant funding from state, federal, and private foundation sources, including the Davis Foundation. She has published and presented widely on working with children with disabilities and on issues such as collaborative leadership. Barry received her doctorate in education/human development from Florida State University in 1979. She has also done postdoctoral work at New York University, Harvard University and the College of William and Mary. Barry is also a former elementary school teacher and principal. About Plymouth State University The University has taken a leadership role among the nation's most environmentally friendly institutions of higher education. In 2006 Plymouth State opened the Langdon Woods Residential Complex, the first USNH building-and one of the first and largest university residence halls in the country-to receive the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. Langdon Woods is just one example of the University's commitment to the environment, which also encompasses a campus-wide recycling program; new courses and majors aimed at preparing graduates for careers in environmental science, stewardship, and policy; and EcoHouse, a new learning laboratory that shows students how even small-scale environmental design features can have important environmental implications. For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations Christopher Williams at cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476. | ||||||||
| PSU Launches Online MBA with Certificate in International Business
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Plymouth State University is launching an innovative online MBA degree program this fall in conjunction with the Babes-Bolyai University (UBB) in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, that will offer students a unique international educational experience. The online MBA with a certificate in International Business offers students worldwide the opportunity to participate in a rich, multi-cultural online learning community at a fraction of the cost of many graduate-level study abroad programs. The degree program provides a substantial foundation for a career in a local or multi-national enterprise. It is slated to begin this fall with a class of 20 American and international students. "This program allows students located anywhere in the world the opportunity to gain a truly global perspective in their studies," said Dr. Trent Boggess, chair of the PSU business department. "The program draws upon the real-world experience of PSU's and UBB's professors to provide a solid foundation in international issues." Designed for aspiring professionals in management or staff positions in businesses and public institutions, successful graduates will be well prepared to assume senior-level management positions in organizations engaged in international business. This includes positions in finance, sales, marketing, operations management, supply chain management, human resources, and product management.Taught entirely in English, the degree is one of the few Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)-accredited MBA programs that reach across borders without the complications and expense of international travel. Professors from both PSU and UBB will deliver courses throughout the two-year program, including global economics, international business, managing organizational behavior and marketing techniques. The diverse backgrounds and experiences of both professors and students will foster productive and lasting international learning exchanges. Visit http://mba.plymouth.edu/intlbusiness for additional information about the degree program. About Plymouth State University (www.plymouth.edu) About Babes-Bolyai University (www.ubbcluj.ro/en/) For more information contact Christopher M. Williams, PSU Director of Public Relations at: cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476. | ||||||||
| Construction Begins on PSU Ice Arena
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Construction began this week on a new ice arena, Plymouth State University officials announced today. The Ice Arena will cost $16.4 million and is scheduled to be completed by late summer 2010. The Ice Arena will seat 850 spectators and serve as a teaching facility for instruction and research in ice activities, a home for Panther varsity men's and women's ice hockey teams, and a site for student recreation. The Ice Arena will also be a venue for community skating including high school athletics, adult and youth hockey leagues, figure skating, and recreational skating. The Ice Arena will feature a Welcome Center lobby and facilities that will provide an attractive meeting place for prospective students, parents, and visitors to the campus as well as the towns of Plymouth and Holderness and the wider region. "The Ice Arena will be more than just an athletic facility on our campus," said PSU President Sara Jayne Steen. "It will allow the University to broaden its physical resources to improve our student experience, provide a competitive advantage for student recruitment, allow more community access to our facilities, and enhance the quality of life in the region." What does this mean for PSU? Future phases of the ALLWell Center will house classrooms, research laboratories, lecture halls, offices, multipurpose activity laboratories, conference rooms, and general support areas for academic and athletic programs. A new field house will provide additional instructional space. An aquatic center will enhance capacity for instruction, community programming, and serve as a qualified competition venue. The Foley Gymnasium will be relocated to a new building that will house instructional and laboratory facilities, an athletic training suite, and strength and conditioning centers for students and the community. The entire project is designed so that on-going activities are not interrupted as new facilities come on line and old facilities are removed. "The Health and Human Performance department is the University's third largest program," said Provost Julie Bernier. "The ALLWell Center will provide a state-of-the-art academic facility for our students allowing them to learn and excel beyond what is currently possible." The Health and Human Performance department also has established recently a Center for Active Living and Healthy Communities, an institute for research and outreach on health and wellness in rural areas that will eventually be housed in the ALLWell Center. The Ice Arena serves as a community facility The Ice Arena responds to the market demand for increasing numbers of adult and youth hockey activities in the Northeast; hockey is one of the fastest growing sports in New England. "Community support is vital to its success, in terms of public access, support of the arena, and partnerships with local groups," said PSU Executive Director of University Relations Steve Barba. Why is PSU moving forward with building the Ice Arena given the current economic climate? Funds to underwrite the construction of the Ice Arena have been generated by New Hampshire Health and Education Facilities Authority (HEFA) bonds. The Ice Arena operating costs will be supported by funds generated through private donations, corporate sponsorships, operations of the rink, and student fees. The State of New Hampshire is providing support through a Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) grant. The PSU Student Senate demonstrated its support for the new Ice Arena by unanimously approving an annual student fee to begin in 2010. "This is an excellent addition to the campus," said PSU Vice President for Finance and Administration Steve Taksar. "It will be managed as an auxiliary operation, which means it must be self-sustaining." Economic impact of the Ice Arena Wright-Ryan Construction, Inc. from Portland, ME is the primary contractor for the Ice Arena project. Approximately 60 percent of the construction contractors are New Hampshire-based companies. It is estimated that once open, the Ice Arena will create 17.3 new jobs in the region with $508,000 in new salaries. Operations of the Ice Arena will also generate $2,333,000 annually. Significant increases in day and overnight visitor traffic are anticipated. PSU's commitment to sustainability "In order to maximize the sustainability of this facility PSU is installing the large geothermal field and using other energy-saving devices that will reduce energy consumption by at least 28 percent over a traditional arena," said PSU's Director of Environmental Sustainability Bill Crangle. The combination of geothermal and the capture of waste heat generated by ice making equipment will provide the heat for the facility thereby removing reliance on traditional fuel-based heating system. Because of the energy-efficient design, this facility will require less energy consumption than PSU's traditional academic and residential buildings of the same size. The University is also developing plans to make available to area science classes the opportunity to learn first-hand about the various "green" technologies being implemented in the Ice Arena. For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations at: cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476. About Plymouth State University | ||||||||
| PSU Professor Nominated as Next N.H. Education Commissioner
Plymouth, N.H. -- Longtime PSU professor and administrator Virginia Ginny' Barry has been nominated by Gov. John Lynch to be New Hampshire's new Commissioner of Education. Barry, of Bridgewater, also is a former elementary school teacher and principal. PSU President Sara Jayne Steen praised Barry's nomination. "Virginia Barry will be a wonderful Commissioner. She brings to the position leadership experience across the educational levels, knowledge of the state's educational opportunities, and an energy and intelligence that will serve New Hampshire well," Steen said. Currently, Barry is a professor in PSU's College of Graduate Studies. She previously served as the University's Acting President, and was the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Barry has also served as the chair and coordinator of teacher education programs at PSU. Barry has been widely recognized for her educational expertise, receiving PSU's Harold E. Hyde Award for Distinguished Educational Leadership, the College of Graduate Studies Award for Outstanding Transformational Leadership, the Distinguished Teaching Award, and the New York State Award for Support of People with Disabilities. She has excelled in teaching and scholarship that has benefited New Hampshire schools. She earned a doctorate in human development and early childhood education from Florida State University, a master's in child development from Queens College and a bachelor's in early childhood education from Florida State. Barry has also completed postdoctoral work at Harvard University, the College of William and Mary and New York University. New Hampshire's Executive Council will hold a public hearing on Barry's nomination and has scheduled a vote on her appointment May 6. About Plymouth State University Plymouth State University is the University System of New Hampshire's regional comprehensive university that combines a heritage of teaching excellence with innovation in engaged research and community outreach. Approximately 4,300 undergraduate and 2,700 graduate students currently are enrolled at PSU, which has state-of-the-art academic and residential facilities; a classic New England village campus; four-season recreation; and historic landscapes that inspire all who study, work, and live here. The University has taken a leadership role among the nation's most environmentally friendly institutions of higher education. In 2006 Plymouth State opened the Langdon Woods Residential Complex, the first USNH building-and one of the first and largest university residence halls in the country-to receive the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. Langdon Woods is just one example of the University's commitment to the environment, which also encompasses a campus-wide recycling program; new courses and majors aimed at preparing graduates for careers in environmental science, stewardship, and policy; and EcoHouse, a new learning laboratory that shows students how even small-scale environmental design features can have important environmental implications. For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations Christopher Williams, (603) 535-2476. | ||||||||
| President Steen Upbeat about PSU's Future in Spite of Recession
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Plymouth State University is managing to weather the international economic storm with proactive and prudent budget measures, said President Sara Jayne Steen in her annual State of the University address March 25. "The global economic turmoil means that this is not a normal year, not business as usual for any institution of higher education," Steen said. "If we make decisions wisely, and strategically, both about what we cannot fund and what we should fund, we will emerge from this a stronger and even more well-focused regional comprehensive university, serving our students and our region with distinction." Even in the face of uncertain economic conditions, Steen said PSU still delivers a first-class education. "Plymouth State's foremost strength is our people, who are innovative, entrepreneurial, collaborative, and committed to student success," Steen said. "I see the results on a daily basis in students who are succeeding beyond their dreams and who regularly credit the faculty and staff members in departments across the campus, from academics and athletics to residential life and the bursar's office, providing guidance, support and inspiration."
Steen cited several PSU students, faculty, staff, and projects that define the essence of the University and distinguish it in the world, including these recent accomplishments: graduate student, Nick Stevenson, won a national research competition at a water quality conference in St. Louis; the PSU Panther football team won the New England Football Conference Championship, and Coach Paul Castonia was selected New England Coach of the Year for Divisions II/III; English professor Liz Ahl won the 2008 Slapering Hol Prize for Poetry; Crystal Finefrock, associate director of Financial Aid, will receive the Champion of Educational Opportunity award in recognition of her work with first generation and low-income students; and Langdon Woods Residential Complex has been recognized as one of the nation's top 10 LEED Gold projects. President Steen also pointed out that National Geographic Adventure magazine recently named Plymouth one of the 50 next great towns in the United States in which to live - and she added that PSU enjoys strong partnerships in our community."This year we celebrated 1808, the date of the founding of the Holmes Plymouth Academy, the lands and buildings of which eventually became the Normal School, and thus the town of Plymouth's 200-year commitment to education." • PSU is emphasizing access and affordability, investing nearly $700,000 in additional financial aid this year to discount students' cost of attendance; and it has moved to the federal direct lending program, which offers advantages to students and their families in terms of cost, repayment, and security. • Student recruitment is increasingly important as the number of high school graduates recedes and the cost of higher education presents challenges to those seeking a college education. PSU recruitment efforts are expanding domestically and internationally. • PSU has transformed its advancement division, so that it incorporates alumni relations, advancement data services, development and now will add a new initiative with parental relations. At the same time, the University's administration is exploring revenue enhancement, looking to the best use of its facilities, expanded winterim and summer offerings, increased on-line or multimedia courses in topics areas, and other initiatives. Members of PSU's cabinet are also gathering information about ways to reduce or postpone expenses. "As we look especially to the next year or two, there will be hard decisions," Steen said. "In making them, we will focus on our values, our priorities, and our mission. We will emphasize the core of what we do and who we are in our teaching, scholarship and creativity, and engagement with the region. We will work to offer a good and stable environment for the faculty and staff members whose effort advances this University and our students every day." For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or Bruce Lyndes | ||||||||
| PSU Names Executive Director of University Advancement
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Dr. Sylvia Bryant, an accomplished fundraiser with an exceptional record of success in higher education has been named Plymouth State University's first executive director of University Advancement. Bryant, of Alfred Station, N.Y. is currently the associate vice president for Individual Giving at Alfred University in Alfred, N.Y. As the executive director of University Advancement Bryant will oversee a division encompassing development, advancement services, and alumni relations. During her 10-year career at Alfred University Bryant directed a $150 million comprehensive campaign that raised $5 million over goal; was a member of the executive team that solicited and secured a $10 million gift to endow the Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering; and secured over $7 million from New York State legislative initiatives and agency programs. She has been instrumental in developing international educational partnerships. PSU President Sara Jayne Steen said Bryant's experience and expertise would enhance the University's fundraising efforts. "Sylvia Bryant has an extraordinary record of success in all aspects of advancement. She is a leader who will work collaboratively with the entire University community to grow our advancement program," said Steen. Bryant also has significant major gifts experience and has managed corporate and foundation fundraising. "I'm very pleased to be joining Plymouth State University and to becoming part of the community. There is great potential for developing institutional resources, and I look forward to working with the campus, the Plymouth community, and friends and alumni to further the University's mission." Before her appointment as Alfred University's associate vice president for Individual Giving, Bryant served as the interim vice president for University Relations, the executive director of Development & Capital Campaigns, and director of Corporate & Foundation Relations. Bryant also is active in her community. She chairs the board of the St. James Mercy Health System, in Hornell, N.Y., and has served as executive director of the Allegany County United Way, and as President of the board of the Alfred Montessori School. Originally from Missouri, Bryant earned her bachelor's degree in English from the University of Missouri-Rolla, her master's degree in English from the University of Kansas, and her doctorate in English from the University of Washington. Bryant begins her duties in June. About Plymouth State University Plymouth State University is the University System of New Hampshire's regional comprehensive university that combines a heritage of teaching excellence with innovation in engaged research and community outreach. Approximately 4,300 undergraduate and 2,700 graduate students currently are enrolled at PSU, which has state-of-the-art academic and residential facilities; a classic New England village campus; four-season recreation; and historic landscapes that inspire all who study, work, and live here. The University has taken a leadership role among the nation's most environmentally friendly institutions of higher education. In 2006 Plymouth State opened the Langdon Woods Residential Complex, the first building in New Hampshire-and one of the first and largest university residence halls in the country-to receive the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. Langdon Woods is just one example of the University's commitment to the environment, which also encompasses a campus-wide recycling program; new courses and majors aimed at preparing graduates for careers in environmental science, stewardship, and policy; and EcoHouse, a new learning laboratory that shows students how even small-scale environmental design features can have important environmental implications. For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations Christopher Williams, (603) 535-2476. | ||||||||
| PSU Named to Presidential Honor Roll For Community Service
PLYMOUTH, N.H. -- The Corporation for National and Community Service honored Plymouth State University with a place on the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll "With Distinction" for exemplary service efforts and service to America's communities. PSU is one of only 83 schools nationwide to achieve this level of recognition in 2008. "Every year hundreds of Plymouth State University students commit thousands of volunteer hours for community service," said PSU Provost Julie Bernier. "Not to be recognized for these efforts, but because giving back to the community is something they care about. It's part of the Plymouth State culture. We are proud to be one of only 83 schools in the country selected to the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll With Distinction and to have our students recognized for their outstanding work." Launched in 2006, the Community Service Honor Roll is the highest federal recognition a school can achieve for its commitment to service-learning and civic engagement. Honorees for the award were chosen based on a series of selection factors including scope and innovation of service projects, percentage of student participation in service activities, incentives for service, and the extent to which the school offers academic service-learning courses. The "With Distinction" honors were for PSU's commitment to helping youth from disadvantaged circumstances through the service program College for Every Student which is designed to lower school dropout rates and prepare students for college. Beginning in the summer 2007, PSU collaborated with Newfound Regional High School (NRHS) in this endeavor. The essence of the College for Every Student Program is the engagement of each student in three high-impact practices that enable them to take steps toward college. Research confirms that student engagement in CFES correlates with higher aspirations and improved academic performance. Over the last two years, for example, 96 percent of CFES high school seniors have gone on to college. The Corporation for National and Community Service also recognized PSU for the following service programs and efforts: PSU's Alternative Spring Break--an increasingly popular service program at PSU with students who are looking for a new way to contribute their time to communities. Two separate groups of students participated in Habitat for Humanity trips over Spring Break last year. One was coordinated under the traditional Alternative Spring Break title, while the second was spearheaded by the PSU Social Work Club. The ASB trip went to Slidell, La., while the Social Work Club worked with the Corpus Christi, Tx. chapter. A third group of students took an ASB trip to Chicago and worked with the Union League Boys and Girls Club. "The student leader felt passionate about working with an under-served youth population in Chicago and felt the experience would be great for her fellow students," said Linda Corriveau PSU Community Service Coordinator. "The urban setting was a great experience for our students, especially since PSU is based in a rural setting." The Angel Tree Project--an annual holiday tradition at Plymouth State. Student Coordinators work with area agencies to gather names of area youth, whom without the Angel Tree Project, may not receive a holiday gift. PSU's Community Service Center--coordinates the University's part-time AmeriCorp program. Through the end of June 2008, the students had each completed 1/2 to 2/3 of their 300-hour commitments. The students are able to create their own path of service and focus on areas of interest to them. PSU Volunteers--a community service and volunteer based student run organization. Students are regular contributors at sites such as Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Pemi Youth Center, the New Hampshire Humane Society, and the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in Wells, Maine. PSU Volunteers also participate in one-time service activities such as Habitat for Humanity build days, the Cancer Walk, the March of Dimes Walk, trail clean-ups, the Polar Express, and Global Youth Service Day. PSU Volunteers is well known in the community and is one of the first calls made when the community is looking for young & energetic volunteers. "In this time of economic distress, we need volunteers more than ever. College students represent an enormous pool of idealism and energy to help tackle some of our toughest challenges," said Stephen Goldsmith, vice chair of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service, which oversees the Honor Roll. "We salute PSU for making community service a campus priority, and thank the millions of college students who are helping to renew America through service to others." Overall, the Corporation honored six New Hampshire schools with Presidential Awards. In addition, 83 were named as Honor Roll With Distinction members and 546 schools as Honor Roll members. In total, 635 schools were recognized. A full list is available at www.nationalservice.gov/honorroll. The Honor Roll is a program of the Corporation, in collaboration with the Department of Education, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. The President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll is presented during the annual conference of the American Council on Education. "I offer heartfelt congratulations to those institutions named to the 2008 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll. College and university students across the country are making a difference in the lives of others every day - as are the institutions that encourage their students to serve others," said American Council on Education President Molly Corbett Broad. Recent studies have underlined the importance of service-learning and volunteering to college students. In 2006, 2.8 million college students gave more than 297 million hours of volunteer service, according to the Corporation's Volunteering in America 2007 study. Expanding campus incentives for service is part of a larger initiative to spur higher levels of volunteering by America's college students. The Corporation is working with a coalition of federal agencies, higher education and student associations, and nonprofit organizations to achieve this goal. The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal agency that improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. The Corporation administers Senior Corps, AmeriCorps and Learn and Serve America, a program that supports service-learning in schools, institutions of higher education and community-based organizations. For more information, go to www.nationalservice.gov. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu | ||||||||
| PSU's Best Students Recognized
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Plymouth State University's highest achieving students were honored at the annual PSU Academic Excellence ceremony Feb. 16 at the Silver Center for the Arts. Students who have earned at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average (GPA) are invited to the annual event. PSU Provost Julie Bernier said the event celebrates those who deserve special distinction for their efforts. "Every year we look forward to this event to honor the students who contribute so much to the academic life of the institution," Bernier said. "We celebrate their achievements, but we also thank them for challenging us and teaching us every day." PSU's Distinguished Teacher, Beth Cox, delivered the closing remarks and told the students that we look to those with knowledge and understanding of the world to become our leaders, our motivators and our decision makers. "Inquiry and expansion of knowledge are required in our very expanding culture," said Cox. "You are a part of the global economy and you will be working in a global marketplace. Even sitting in Plymouth we are no longer bound by our geography, but can be reached through imagination, creativity and supportive technology." Approximately 160 students along with their families, friends and professors attended the ceremony to celebrate and honor these students for their academic excellence. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or Bruce Lyndes | ||||||||
| High School Students Study Chinese at PSU
High school students must meet requirements agreed to between the high school and PSU to enroll in University classes. The Plymouth Regional High School (PRHS) students, all seniors, are Danielle Berry from Campton, Kara Mastin from Plymouth and Caitlin Swanson from Holderness. A collaborative project between the University and PRHS, the experimental courses uses the IQChinese PINYIN and GO 100, GO 200 software programs, which were given to all students in the class using grant funds provided by the Hope Education Foundation. "Forever Use" site licensing was also provided to the PSU language laboratory with a complete set of the software. PRHS Assistant Principal Robert Price says his school is always open to partnerships that help both institutions and enrich the experience for students. "In this case, Dr. Lopez-Mayhew came to us about a college-level course we wouldn't have been able to offer here. The students who were able to work this in to their already very busy schedules all did very well." Adjunct faculty member Shi Yi Lu taught the Fall 2008 class with Professor Barbara Lopez-Mayhew, chair of the Department of Languages and Linguistics, as mentor and facilitator. "Dr. Lu's multiple talents and interests provided a cultural supplement to the software program, which emphasizes vocabulary and tone acquisition," said Professor Lopez-Mayhew. "Our beginning yearlong course has been modeled after other fundamentals of language courses offered at the university, with an emphasis on oral communication and culture. However, the students in this program have the software CDs rather than a textbook," said Lopez-Mayhew. This model Chinese program provided the initial impetus to offer instruction of a crucial language which had not previously been included in the PSU or school district curriculum, according to Lopez-Mayhew. "This collaboration between PRHS and PSU has enhanced the university's support and commitment with the local public area high school and community in its effort to offer high school juniors and seniors added opportunity to take courses at the university," she said. The Hope Education Foundation of Monterey Park, Cal. and Irvine-based IQChinese have provided 21 grants making courseware available to American students learning Mandarin Chinese in 17 public schools in 17 states. The PSU-PRHS award is the only grant made in New Hampshire. The grant provides a complete Chinese language curriculum to either expand an existing Chinese program or provide materials to start a new one. Each grant provides courseware for up to 30 school computers, training and resources for three classroom teachers, in addition to software for the individual students, which allows them to practice outside of the classroom at home. Each grant is valued at more than $10,000. Fundamentals of Chinese I and II have been approved as yearly offerings, and Chinese I has been approved as a general education "global awareness" course, with the likelihood of more levels in the future. "We consider this collaboration to be an important step in the expansion and globalization of our curricula, and we hope that high schools students will continue to take advantage of this unique opportunity to study Chinese at Plymouth State University in subsequent years," said Lopez-Mayhew.
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| PSU Residence Hall Wins Judges Choice Award for Green Design
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Plymouth State University's newest residential life building has garnered another prestigious award. Langdon Woods has earned the Judges' Choice recipient in the Building as a Teaching Tool' category in College Planning and Management's 2008 Green Education Design Showcase.' The award is published in the November 2008 editions of both College Planning and Management and School Planning and Management. The judges noted that because of Langdon Woods environmental sustainability features, it is more than a campus building. "More than merely a home for students, Langdon Woods has become a learning lab for the campus and a symbol of efficiency and sustainability," said the judging panel. William Crangle, PSU's Special Assistant to the President for Environmental Sustainability and a driving force behind Langdon Woods, said PSU's collaborative planning process worked well. "This proves again that if you have a good process, you will likely have a great result," said Crangle. "We involved student, faculty and staff; we had three classes participate in the process of planning and design. The awards we have received are really a recognition of their efforts and involvement." 
Langdon Woods was the first building in New Hampshire to achieve a gold-level certification through the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership-Energy-Environmental Design (LEEDS) program. Interiors and Sources magazine also named Langdon Woods one of the nation's top ten LEED certified projects, and was also selected for a Gold Medal Building of America Award as one of the most significant sustainable projects in New England. Langdon Woods is a $29 million dollar project featuring a layout that follows the contour of the land on-site, preserving wetlands and other water elements while allowing maximum sunlight exposure for energy conservation. The brick, wood and glass building was outfitted with energy and water conserving fixtures and systems, including some waterless urinals. Heat is provided through a co-generation plant housed next door. The 347-bed, five-story high building was paid for entirely by student fees. As for the living quarters, Langdon Woods offers suite-style living options as well as hotel-type single and double bedrooms, a 1,000 square-foot aerobic exercise area, a coffee shop, a common area with wireless internet access, smaller areas for students to congregate, bathrooms with more privacy, a laundry room, secure bicycle storage and a meeting/conference room. Additionally, the carpets throughout the building are recyclable and the University outfitted the rooms with furniture manufactured locally in Lisbon, N.H. For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or Bruce Lyndes | ||||||||
| President's Message to the Campus Community
To the campus community: In recent weeks I have visited each of the campus constituency groups to discuss the current global economic crisis, what we have done as a university to prepare, and the challenges and opportunities we face. Because the headlines about colleges and universities nationwide could provoke uncertainty and unease, I write to give you a sense of what is happening and how we are moving forward. You know that the state budget shortfall is significant, and our budget includes, in addition to revenues such as tuition and grants, a state appropriation. Last Friday, the University System of New Hampshire announced that we are returning 7% of our state appropriation for 2009. This was not a surprise, but something for which we had prepared. As we at PSU planned for our share of the return, we made students and employees our priorities. To implement this reduction, we will be holding selected positions vacant, delaying position reclassifications, and postponing some scheduled renovations. Student programs will proceed without interruption or cost increases. I spoke before the Governor and Fiscal Committee of the excellence at PSU, including our contribution to the state's economic well-being. We have never put operating expenses on endowment earnings and as a result will not face the cuts that some schools are facing. Our fiscal managers on campus and at the system have been careful and prudent, for which we can thank them. We do face challenges, and we will meet them. The most important is to support our students. Many of our students are the first in their families to attend college; often families face serious economic pressures. Access and affordability matter to us. We have worked to increase our institutional financial aid in recent years and will continue to do so, and the Office of Financial Aid is exceptional in its care. Please make sure that you advise students to meet with Financial Aid if you hear concerns. Also, we are in the quiet phase of a new campaign, with the support of our alumni, parents, friends, President's Council, and Board of Trustees. We are developing innovative academic and support programs; advancing our initiatives in internationalization and in sustainability; and moving forward on exciting plans such as ALLWell that will position the University well for the future. We will get through this, and we will do so together. As a campus community, we have much for which to be thankful. In recent weeks we have celebrated new awards to honor excellence past and present and enjoyed international week events with wonderful foods and music. We have seen student success in the classrooms, on athletic fields (including the achievement of post-season play), and in extraordinary musical and theatrical performances. We can be proud. This is not a traditional Thanksgiving message, but it is a heartfelt one. May your holidays be safe and joyous. Sara Jayne
Sara Jayne Steen | ||||||||
| Gifts from Hand and Heart Event an Overwhelming Success
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- How many times have we heard, "It's the thought that counts!" While that axiom is true, plenty of people are faced with less money this year in providing holiday gifts for their friends and family. After hearing how stressed students are when it comes to the holidays and gift giving, a group of Financial Aid employees created the "Gifts From Heart and Hand" program, whose goal is to give students, faculty, and staff holiday gift ideas that cost no more than $10. After putting out the call for volunteers, the organizers collected dozens of gift ideas, from knit hats to homemade Christmas ornaments to candy. 
Monday, Nov. 24 the gifts were displayed in the HUB Multi Purpose room, with more than 200 students, staff and faculty perusing the array of low-cost and fun presents. The goal, according to Crystal Finefrock of Financial Aid, was to have 200 or more different gift ideas to empower the PSU community to create their own gifts for family and friends without breaking the bank. 
"If we can change at least one person's thoughts about how they spend for the holidays, and reconsider that amount, then I think we've done a great job," said Finefrock. "I think it's been a great community builder, everyone has been very excited and there's been a lot of great energy, so we're very pleased." The organizers also gave everyone a free CD to take away with them that provided a picture of the gift, how the gift was made (list of all materials, where the items were purchased, etc) and the estimated price. For general information about events at PSU, log on to ThisWeek@PSU at http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu/.
Check out more stories in P-Week | ||||||||
| PSU Staff Volunteer at Plymouth Regional Senior Center
PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Thanksgiving is traditionally a time of giving, and a cadre of Plymouth State University employees provided a helping hand at the Plymouth Regional Senior Center's annual Thanksgiving luncheon Nov.18 & 19. 
Nearly 150 turkey dinners were served up by PSU employees, who enjoyed the opportunity to set out a delicious meal for community seniors. 
PSU employees who participated in the Thanksgiving luncheon included Lynn Cuda, Chuck Doyle, Dorie Cash, Michelle Lauriat, Ellanna Tallent, Kathi Weeks, Jess Stevens, Karen Weldon, Diane Tiffany, Nina Baker, Barbara Gickas and Babs LaJeunnesse. 
For general information about events at PSU, log on to ThisWeek@PSU at http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu/. Check out more stories in P-Week | ||||||||
| PSU Announces 2008 Fall Undergraduate Enrollment
PLYMOUTH, N.H. -- The number of undergraduate students attending Plymouth State University this fall is stable as 4,300 students are enrolled 30 days into the semester (the official census date for the fall semester), University officials announced today. This is a slight decrease of 16 students from 2007. The number of first-year, first-time college students enrolled this semester is 1,090, an increase of 77 students over last year. The number of students living on campus this semester is 2,485, an increase of 53 students over last year. To provide the most accurate graduate student enrollment data, PSU will release its College of Graduate Studies enrollment numbers later in the fall semester. For more information contact Christopher M. Williams at cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476. | ||||||||
| The Secret is Out! Plymouth is Exciting Says National Geographic Adventure
PLYMOUTH, NH -- The rest of the world is starting to recognize what Plymouth residents have long known-Plymouth is an exciting place to live, work, and go to school. Citing the region's many recreational opportunities National Geographic Adventure magazine has named Plymouth one of the 50 next great adventure towns in the United States in which to live. "Life in Plymouth is like a master class in recreation," wrote National Geographic journalist Sarah Tuff. "Wedged between Mount Washington Valley and the Granite State's glittering lakes region, this college-meets-covered-bridge depot is home to the new White Mountain Exploration center, with instruction in ski touring, ice climbing, mountain biking, and rock climbing all run by Eastern Mountain Sports." "When classes aren't in session, recess means kayaking the Pemigewasset River and exploring the 798,562-acre White Mountain National Forest." "And if working at Plymouth State University or the local hospital doesn't entice you, high-tech and political posts are just 45 minutes south in Concord." In the article, "Where to Live + Play Now! The fifty next great adventure towns" Plymouth ranks fourth in the east region. "Plymouth stood out because of its stunning location in New Hampshire," said Tuff about Plymouth's inclusion on the list. "We sought towns that not only have premier access to outdoor recreation and resources, but also forward momentum. New initiatives such as bike paths, outdoor centers, eco-friendly measures and more all played a role in helping us determine the 50 best places to live and play for National Geographic Adventure readers." Plymouth's inclusion on the National Geographic 50 great adventure towns list isn't the first time the community has been noted for its quality. Plymouth is also the featured college town for September on collegetownlife.com and listed on the America's Best Bargain Outdoor Towns For Baby Boomers list. In April Plymouth was the featured New Hampshire Magazine cover story "Why Plymouth Rocks" The 100 Best Small Towns In America (released in the mid 1990s) ranked Plymouth seventh out of 100 for its quality of life, beautiful location and outdoor recreation. "Where to Live + Play Now! The fifty next great adventure towns" is in the September issue of National Geographic Adventure magazine, which is on newsstands now or available online at http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com | ||||||||
| First-Year PSU Students Lend a Hand
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PLYMOUTH, N.H. - The annual All New England Band Festival, featuring 176 high school musicians, will culminate in a performance at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 23, at the 
PLYMOUTH, N.H. - Rhinoceros, Eugene Ionesco's iconic absurdist play examining apathy and conformity, will be presented November 19-22 by the 
PLYMOUTH, N.H. - Nineteen Plymouth State University Department of Art faculty will exhibit their work in the Karl Drerup Art Gallery during the 2009 Faculty Exhibition, Nov. 4 - Dec. 9.
Exhibiting this year are John Anderson, Elizabeth D'Amico, Tom Driscoll, Greg Finley, Bill Haust, Michael Heffernan, Philip Inwood and Carol Jowdy. Also Jong-Yoon Kim, Phil Lonergan, Dave Martin, Annette Mitchell, Jay Moskowitz, Nick Sevigney, Kathi Smith, Jason Swift, Cynthia Vascak, Lauren von Duyke-Dadmun and Joan Wirth.
PLYMOUTH, N.H. - PSU Professor of History Emeritus Manuel Marquez-Sterling was a witness to history in the seven critical years 1952-1959, when the struggle for Cuba was not just between Fulgencio Batista and Fidel Castro, but also a third force that advocated for a peaceful, democratic resolution. 
PLYMOUTH, N.H.--Julie Mertus, associate professor and co-director of the Master of Arts program in ethics, peace and global affairs at American University will discuss globalization and changes in the United Nations human rights system that provide new opportunities and an expanded range of tools to use to address human wrongs and to advance human rights at the 
The studio's 2008 Portfolio Show comprises works by 26 artist members, each of whom contributed prints or artist's proofs demonstrating a broad range of old and new printmaking techniques.
Images of works in the show are online at 
TIGER productions use children's own words, achieved through classroom writing prompt exercises, to create topical productions that help students solve social problems. The ensemble now has six shows in its repertoire.
Green TIGERRRRR! arose from collaboration between the troupe and the Captain Samuel Douglass Academy in Brookline. The anonymous writings of the school's students were used to create a fast-paced musical theatre performance to teach the children practical, positive environmental actions they can take in their home, school and community. 
Up and Down: Overview Effect by Pat Musick opens at the Karl Drerup Art Gallery in the Draper and Maynard Building September 9.
Seasons on Eagle Pond are brought to life in Poetry of Place, an exhibition by former U.S and New Hampshire poet laureate Donald Hall and photographer Sheila Pallay. Halls poems, including "Waters," "The Moon," "The Wish," "The Hunkering," "Summer," "Affirmation" and "The Master" are accompanied by photographs taken at Eagle Pond in Wilmot, N.H., where both live. 
PLYMOUTH, N.H. - Three area high school students traveled to Plymouth State University fall semester to study Mandarin Chinese with University students in the Department of Languages and Linguistics. 
