News and Events

Both the morning and afternoon pre-kindergarten classes from the Family Development Center are producing and performing their own versions of The Three Little Pigs.

The three to five-year old students learned the intricacies of theatre production from acting to selling concessions and operating the lights. They also created art for advertising materials, made the costumes, gathered the props, and made the scenery.

The pre-kindergarteners will perform in two shows, on April 9, at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., in the Center for Performing Arts. Tickets are only $1 and are available at the door or the Family Development Center.

For more information, call 708.235.7315.

Representatives from area community colleges and universities met at Governors State University recently to learn how student writing skills can be improved and incorporated in all areas of study. The third workshop in a three part series brought together educators who wish to develop and implement the best practices available in their classrooms to serve their students better.

Dr. Elaine P. Maimon, President of GSU and pioneer of Writing Across the Curriculum, led the workshop; an innovative program, which changed how writing was taught at all levels of education.

The Writing Consortium and workshop series are sponsored by the South Metropolitan Higher Education Consortium, which comprises 13 member colleges and universities to achieve greater effectiveness in providing higher education to the region.

The Writing Consortium was established last year in response to an initiative by GSU Writing Center Coordinator, Dr. Becky Nugent and the interest of area colleges and universities.

Start folding you paper now for a chance to win the coveted GSU Flyer trophy. The Civil Service Senate will host its annual GSU Fly-In on Thursday, April 16, from 1:30 to 3 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. The entire GSU community is invited to participate in what has become one of the spring’s most anticipated events. Full details will be available soon.

Senior Kishauna Hampton recently was awarded the Mitchell-Moore Award for Community Service by the African American Heritage Committee of the Cook County Juvenile Court for her “courage and dedication to our country, for service in Iraq, and for being a great intern.”

Hampton is currently completing her internships at the Cook County Juvenile Probation Department and previously served in the U.S. Army for six years, including 18 months in Iraq.

Hampton plans to pursue a career as a juvenile probation officer after graduation in June. “I find this field very exciting,” said Hampton. “Children have a better chance of being helped if stopped earlier with treatment and services.”

According to Dr. Coldren, Chair of the Criminal Justice Program at Governors State University, “Kishauna’s mature understanding of the possibilities for effective work in the justice system and how this applies to juveniles make her very effective in her internship. We are very proud of her success.”

Storytelling is not just for children. Adults get the opportunity to enjoy the lively art of storytelling with Jumping Jambalaya, a program of stories performed by professional storytellers Kucha and Baba Tony Brown, will be on April 9, from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. The program includes call and response, dialect, diverse stories, and folk tales.

The show is sponsored by a grant from the Intellectual Life Committee. For more information, contact Lynne Clayton at ext. 3075.

Jose Reyes, Transfer Coordinator in the university’s Office of Admission, was recently named Director of Dual Admission and Transfer Coordinator. In this new position, Jose will develop, coordinate, and implement GSU’s strategic initiative of developing dual admission programs with its community college partners. Jose will work closely with the network of Illinois community college faculty, transfer coordinators, and student service representatives to develop seamless pathways for community college students to obtain their baccalaureate degrees at GSU.

Download the official memo.

2009 GSU Winter Closed Championship (Table Tennis) is conducting its final round of the tournament in the Cafeteria Annex at 5:30 to 7 p.m., on Tuesday, March 31. In the final round, the top eight players from the first round of tournament will compete for the top four trophy awards. Everyone is invited to cheer for the players.

After a 4-day heated competition in the first round of tournament, the top eight players are Chengwei Yu, Georges Yacoub, Cleo Jamison, Mike Byrne, Rhona Thompson, Qianli Ma, Chengfang Xia, and Byron Waller.

There were 37 GSU students, staff, and faculty who competed in the first round of the tournament, which comprised of 79 matches and 174 games. The longest game played was 18 to 16 (game to 11 points). The highest number of matches played by an individual was 22 matches by J.P. Kasallis.

The Civic and Community Engagement lecture series continues with a presentation by Mary Houghton, President of ShoreBank and Chair of ShoreBank International, on April 1, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., in the Hall of Honors. The University Honors Program and the College of Arts and Sciences’ Political and Justice Studies Program are sponsors of the lecture series.

The title of Houghton’s presentation is Community Development. As president of ShoreBank, the first community development bank in the region, Houghton understands the complexities and problems in both attracting new developments to and the redevelopment of older communities. Her presentation is free and open to the public.

The final lecture in the series will be Promoting Civic and Community Engagement presented by the Honorable Abner Mikva, Federal First District Court Judge, on April 15.

For more information, contact Dr. Larry Levinson at ext. 4578.

The Department of Human Resources reminds employees that AIG Retirement has changed its name back to VALIC. The retirement segment is only one portion of the corporate AIG family. VALIC has been involved with 403(b) retirement programs since 1964 and has been an authorized vendor for GSU’s Tax Deferred Annuity Plan since the 1980s. As a result, the university will continue its relationship with this vendor despite the current economic downturn.

Human Resources does not provide investment advice and notes that the Tax Deferred Annuity Plan is only one of several retirement plan options available from various companies. For more information on retirement investment options, contact the Department of Human Resources.

Governors State University has been invited to participate in The Chronicle’s Great Colleges to Work For program, a study designed to recognize institutions that have built great workplaces.

The survey measures the strength of certain organizational competencies and relationships that most directly impact and influence an institution's culture.

Beginning April 3, a random sample of full-time facility, administrators, and professional staff will be selected to take part in an anonymous, online survey. Invitations will be sent via e-mail and will contain instructions on how to access and complete the survey. Employees are encouraged to participate in the survey and provide honest feedback.

Survey results, will be part of an overall scoring process that will determine the institutions that are recognized.

We’re confident GSU’s employees will take time to reflect on the positive experiences as employees. But according to science faculty member Gary Lyon, “We don't really need this survey.  We already know that GSU is a great university to work for!"

GSU faculty and staff can now enter helpdesk work orders online from any on campus computer. The new system also allows helpdesk customers track the status of current work orders and view resolutions to previous work orders.

To access the Online Helpdesk, go to http://gsunet.govst.edu and select “helpdesk” from the menu. Users should be automatically logged into the system. If prompted to login, users should enter their standard e-mail (network) login and password.

ITS plans to make the service available to students and those needing off campus assistance soon.

The new service will not replace live phone support, which is still available by calling ext. 4357.

The page should log you in automatically. If it does not, enter your email (network) login and password.

Student Senate and Student Life are sponsoring a student trip to the Chicago Cubs vs. St. Louis Cardinals game, on Saturday, April 18. Game time is 2:40 p.m.

Students are eligible to win two tickets. Winners also receive transportation via charter bus to and from the game. Space on the bus is limited and based on a first-come-first-served basis.

To enter, students should submit an email entry including name, address, telephone number, and Student I.D. Number to gsudsil@yahoo.com. The subject line of the email should read "Go Cubs Go!" All entries must be received by Thursday, April 9, by 11 p.m.

The drawing will occur on Friday, April 10. Winners will be notified via email the day of the drawing.

Dr. Rosemary Johnsen, Assistant Professor of English, co-led a discussion on Thornton Wilder’s Our Town after the March 21 matinee performance by Lookingglass Theatre in Chicago. The Raven Foundation of Chicago sponsored the presentation which also included comments by Philip R. Smith, Producing Artistic Director at Lookingglass.

According to Johnsen, “Our Town is a landmark in American literature. I enjoyed participating in the discussion and listening to the audience response to this insightful production of Wilder's popular play.”

The ongoing Table Tennis Tournament brought out the competitive streak at GSU. Thirty-one players began the competition on March 24. The top eight players (i.e., players with highest scores) at that time were Chengwei Yu, Georges Yacoub, Cleo Jamison, Rhona Thompson, Byron Waller, JP Kasallis, Baratunde, and Slawomir Cislak.

The first round of the competition concludes on March 26, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5:30 to 7 p.m. The final round is on Tuesday, March 31, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. All competitions take place in the Cafeteria Annex.

Trophies will be awarded to the top four competitors. For more information, contact TJ Wang.

The 15th Annual Student Research Conference will be held on Wednesday, May 20, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at GSU. The conference provides students an opportunity to present their research work before an audience of their peers, and offers a forum to highlight research accomplishments at GSU. Students will make all the presentations.

Students may present a 15-minute podium presentation of their work followed by a five-minute question and answer session or they may display their work as a poster presentation. All abstracts will be published in the conference proceedings.

Faculty are asked to encourage students to participate in this valuable educational experience. The registration and abstract submission deadline is Friday, April 11. There is no registration fee.

For more information or for participation application forms, contact Dr. Shelly Kumar.

Who Wants to be in the Know?,  a contest asking questions concern women’s history and health, women in sports, as entrepreneurs, and as artist, musicians, and entertainers, is on  March 30, from noon until 2 p.m., in the Cafeteria Annex. Two-member teams will compete for fame, fortune, and fun. Well, at least for fun.

This contest is part of the GSU celebration of Women’s History Month. The Academic Resource Center, Student Life, and the College of Arts and Sciences are sponsors of the competition. Refreshments will be served.

Assessment Strategies Today is the focus of a lunchtime workshop, on Friday, March 27, from noon to 1:30 p.m., in the Cafeteria Annex. Prof. Eric Wignall will lead participants in activities that explore the latest research evidence in learning assessment.

Faculty, teaching staff, and adjuncts are invited to join the conversation. Lunch is free to the first 20 people who register. To register, contact Eric Wignall.

An End of Semester/Graduation Fiesta, sponsored by the Latino Center for Excellence for all Latino Center cohort members will be held on Friday, April 17, from 5 to 10 p.m. The fiesta will be held outdoors behind the Center for Performing Arts, if weather permits, or inside in the Student Commons.

The celebration will include music, games, Samba lessons, and a carne asada cookout. Students are welcome to bring a dish to share.

The Department of Human Resources is sponsoring Tobacco & Smoking Cessation, a presentation by the Will County Health Department, on Wednesday, April 8, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., in the Hall of Honors. This educational outreach session is part of the Let’s Get Fit! program. Participants should remember to have their cards validated. Everyone is welcome.

Gloria Georger’s career has taken her on a fulfilling and successful journey. With a MBA from GSU earned in 1994, Gloria has worked her way up the management ladder at Ford Motor Company, holding titles as quality superintendent, quality manager, assembly area manager, press area manager, lean manufacturing manager to her current position as plant manager for the company’s stamping plant in Chicago Heights.

What’s driven her success? “Find a common bond with people, make friends and assimilate quickly…be approachable… try to know something about each person.”

This afternoon, President Elaine P. Maimon announced her decision regarding continuity of leadership in the Office of the Provost. On April 1, Dr. David Curtis will begin serving as Professor on Special Assignment to provide academic leadership for the university. Upon his retirement in June, Dr. Curtis will act as Interim Provost until a new Provost is appointed.

Dr. Maimon noted that Dr. Cutris’ appointment was the result of “consultation with trustees, governance leaders, deans, and faculty members.”

Dr. Curtis has a long history at GSU, starting in 1971. His prior tenure as Provost, from 1982 to 1992, will provide stability during the national search and this November’s Higher Learning Commission (HLC) site visit. For thirty-three years, he has been a Higher Learning Commission peer consultant and evaluator, chairing numerous evaluation teams and acting as a consultant for many institutions.

“I look forward to working with our faculty, deans and the wonderful staff at GSU in serving the academic needs of our students and acting as a community resource,” Dr. Curtis said following the announcement. “I am delighted to be returning to the Provost’s Office. And I can now more clearly answer the question ‘What do you plan to do when you retire?,’”  he added.

Over the next few weeks, President Maimon will appoint a committee to oversee a national search for a permanent Provost.

The Second Annual Civil Service Senate Limerick Contest elicited 23 poetic contributions which were narrowed to 11 finalists. Those lucky limericks were read to an enthusiastic crown on March 17, in the lobby of the Center for Performing Arts. The winners were voted on by the audience in attendance.

First Place - Tony Labriola
It was Art on the Art of the Kuba,
And Carlson visiting Buddha,
While the Union is fumin’,
The budget’s in ruin,
And the faculty left for Bermuda.

Second Place – Kathy Miller
Gebe and Elaine, from Alaska they came,
With promises things won't be the same
They put PBAC in place
No budgets trimmed in lace
And hoping the Deans would be tamed

Third Place – Starr Gill & Ann Manning-Nagel
Business Office departments are eight
Some come early, some stay late
Every day is a test
Customer service we do best
We’re happy we’re here at Gov State.

As part of the community’s One Book, One Southland program, GSU Intellectual Life Committee and the Center for Performing Arts is sponsoring a special discussion of To Kill a Mockingbird. Join the conversation about this classic novel on Wednesday, March 25, at 6 p.m., in the Center for Performing Arts.

Faculty and guests will discuss the novel’s historical context as well as the major themes of human nature and prejudice. Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, assistant professor of history; Dr. Shannon Dermer, associate professor of psychology and counseling; and special guest Dr. Mort Maimon, will each give in-depth presentations on a particular topic related to the book. Diane Dates Casey dean of the University Library, will moderate.

Follow up the discussion with the Montana Repertory’s performance of Kill a Mockingbird in The Center, on Saturday, May 9, at 8 p.m. Great seats are still available via The Center’s website or by calling 708.235.2222.

The College of Health and Human Services is hosting noted ethicist and award-winning author Jack Gilbert tonight at 5:30 p.m., in the Center for Performing Arts. His presentation will focus on how healthcare organizations can foster an environment of ethical decision-making.

Dr. Gilbert's is the author of award-winning books, “Strengthening Ethical Wisdom: Tools for Transforming Your Health Care Organization” and “Productive Management: A Step-By-Step Guide for Health Care Professionals,” which is used extensively by healthcare managers.

The event is free and open to the public. For additional program information, contact Nancy Burley at ext. 4387.

The Recreation and Fitness Center is hosting Latin dance lessons on Monday and Wednesdays, from 11 a.m. to noon, through April 15. The first classes took place last week, but there’s still plenty of time to join in. For only $20, you’ll learn the basics of Latin dance, get in shape, and have fun with your co-workers. Sign up today in the Recreation Supervisor’s Office (A1106). Contact Victor Griffin for more information at ext. 4556.

Restorative Justice comes to GSU during a weeklong series of informative events covering restorative justice practices in schools, the court system, and communities. Restorative justice principles call for holistic responses to crimes, offenses, and harms that give victims, communities, and offenders participatory roles in the repair of harms.

The week begins with an Introduction to Restorative Justice on Monday, April 6, from 3 to 5 p.m., in the Cafeteria Annex. Featured participants include Dr. Sherilyn Poole, Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students; and Debra Boyd, Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety at GSU.

It will include a presentation of the university’s pilot restorative justice/conflict resolution program by Dr. James “Chip” Coldren, Criminal Justice Program Chair; Joanne Smith, Director of Field Sites in the Social Work Program; and Paula Levickas, Academic Advisor in the School of Interdisciplinary Learning.

An explanation of the effectiveness of restorative justice practices in south suburban schools and communities follows on April 7, from 3 to 5 p.m., in the Cafeteria Annex. A demonstration of restorative justice practices applied to adult situations will be presented on April 8, from 3 to 5 p.m., in the Cafeteria Annex.

The week concludes with a Restorative Justice Film Festival, on April 9, from 3 to 5 p.m., in the Cafeteria Annex. Short films and video clips pertaining to realistic restorative justice programs will be screened.

Events are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For more information contact Dr. Chip Coldren at ext. 4330.

Storytelling is not just for children anymore. Adults get the opportunity to enjoy the lively art of storytelling at Jumping Jambalaya, a program of stories performed by professional storytellers Kucha and Baba Tony Brown, on April 9, from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. The program includes call and response, dialect, diverse stories, and folk tales.

The show is sponsored by a grant from the Intellectual Life Committee and was organized by Lynne Clayton of the COE Dean’s Office. It is free and open to the public.

Graduation prep days will be held on Wednesday, April 1, and Thursday, April 2, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. Prospective graduates may sit for their cap and gown portraits, order a GSU class ring, order Commencement cap and gown, reserve for the Salute to Graduates Picnic, and learn about Alumni Association benefits, while enjoying refreshments.

For more information, call Sara Appel at ext. 4552.

Graduate Nursing students will be making poster presentation on Monday, March 30, from 1 to 3 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. The entire university community is invited to attend.

The Student Senate and Student Life are sponsoring a student trip to see the Chicago Cubs take on the St. Louis Cardinals, on Saturday, April 18. Game time is 2:40 p.m.

Students are eligible to win two tickets. Winners also receive transportation via charter bus to and from the game. Space on the bus is limited and based on a first-come-first-served basis.

To enter, students should submit an email entry including name, address, telephone number, and Student I.D. number to gsudsil@yahoo.com. The subject line of the email should read Go Cubs Go! All entries must be received by Thursday, April 9, by 11 p.m.

The drawing will occur on Friday, April 10. Winners will be notified via email the day of the drawing.

In recognition of President Obama’s Open Government Directive, the University Library will host a national webcast, which will include a “lively discussion from Washington, DC about open government, public engagement, and participation” by a national panel of government experts.

The event will be broadcast in the University Library (D2401C) on Friday, March 20, from noon to 1:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Greg Johnson at ext. 7516, Diane Dates Casey at ext. 4110, or visit the Open Government.org website.

Led by the legendary Juan de Marcos González of the famous Buena Vista Social Club, the internationally renowned Afro-Cuban All Stars will visit GSU this weekend. On Friday, March 20, at 8 p.m., they’ll perform a powerhouse mix of all styles of Cuban music including bolero, salsa, and rumba.

GSU two-for-one tickets are available for this show from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday. Tickets may be purchased in person or via phone at 708.235.2222.

The Metropolitan Institute for Leadership in Education and the College of Education is sponsoring a one-day Substitute Teacher Academy with Resources workshop. The workshop teaches new subs what to expect, how to react to an emergency, how to maintain classroom control, and how to follow the teacher’s lesson plans.

The Substitute Teacher Academy is on July 11, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the Hall of Honors. Participants must hold a bachelor’s degree. Registration is limited to 50 participants. The $50 registration fee includes lunch and materials. For more information or to register, call 708.534.4024.

The weather is warmer. The grass will soon be greener. The golf season has begun! Get in the swing with the 2009 Golf League. The league gathers Tuesday evenings after work and plays nine holes (or more depending on daylight and individual energy) at Golf Vista Golf Course. The Monee golf course is located on Court Street in Golf Vista Estates, which offers an executive nine hole golf course (two par fours and seven par threes) at a modest fee.

For more information, contact Dave Drechsel.

Significant changes in copyright law impact teaching in today’s world. The University Copyright Committee will present Copyright in the Digital Environment for GSU faculty on Tuesday, March 24, from 3 to 4 p.m. and on Wednesday, April 1, from 11 a.m. to noon. Both seminars will take place in D34115.

Attendees will learn the latest in copyright law and policy. Not only is compliance with copyright law the policy of Governors State University, it’s the law.

The Friends of the GSU Library is eager to help you with your spring cleaning. Rid yourself of all those unwanted bits and pieces that take up much needed space. The Friends will sell the donated unused and lightly used items in their auction or raffle to help support the GSU Library.

Perhaps you have shelves of old books needing new readers? The Friends will gladly take on the job of finding good homes for those literary and academic gems.

Items donated to the Friends are tax deductable as allowed by law. Contact Lydia Morrow-Ruetten at ext. 4116 for more information.

The curtain will rise again on the annual summer theater camp for kids at the Center. This year’s show will be Annie. Children, aged 8 to 13, will play all the roles in the production as well as receive professional coaching from members of Light Opera Works from Evanston, Illinois. The camp is limited to 40 participants.

Theater Camp runs from June 22 to 26, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Center. The performance is on June 26, at 7 p.m.

The registration fee is $225 for the week. Enrollment is now open. For more information, contact Burt Dikelsky at ext. 2238.

Jennifer Buteyn has been named the new principal of the Ridgewood High School by the District 234 Board of Education. Jennifer previously served as the assistant principal at the school. She received her master’s degree in educational administration at GSU.

Gregory Buchanan was named the new superintendent of Golf School District 67 in Morton Grove, Illinois. Mr. Buchanan was previously the associate superintendent for Woodstock Community Unit School District 200. Gregory is a 1992 graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Communications Disorders.

A class on Horizon Wimba, an online teaching and web conferencing application, will be held on Wednesday, March 25, from 2 to 4 p.m., in room D2401B.

For more information or to register, contact Michel Nguessan, at ext 2143.

This afternoon, President Maimon issued a memo informing the university community of Provost Jane Hudak’s resignation, effective March 31, 2009, citing personal and professional reasons. She will continue to contribute to the university as an art faculty member in the College of Arts and Sciences.

“I am most appreciative and grateful to the entire GSU community for their welcoming spirit and for making GSU a special place for me to work,” said Provost Hudak. “I am eager to return to what brings me the most joy - teaching art, making art, writing about art, and providing transformational experiences for underserved students.”

President Maimon noted several other important initiatives that the Provost has undertaken during her tenure at GSU including the recruitment and hiring of Dean Ellen Foster Curtis in the CBPA and Dean Deborah Bordelon in COE. Provost Hudak has also helped strengthen partnerships with regional community colleges.

“Please join me in thanking Jane for her service and accomplishments,” said Dr. Maimon. “I want to extend my personal thanks for her enthusiastic commitment to GSU’s mission – an enthusiasm that will continue as she enlightens our students about the joys of art.”

Over the next few days, President Maimon will be consulting with deans, faculty, and governance leaders on plans for interim leadership of the Office of the Provost and on the process and timelines for a national search.

Online course registration begins today for the Spring/Summer trimester and continues through May 9.

The Office of the Registrar has issued a special memo to clarify registration dates, deadlines, and processes.

The Southland Area Theatre Ensemble (SLATE) at Governors State University announced that it will produce the hit musical Into the Woods as its inaugural production.

SLATE’s first production proves to be an exciting show for all ages. Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's classic musical about magical enchantment masterfully blends the stories of familiar storybook characters like Jack (of beanstalk fame), Rapunzel, Cinderella, and Little Red Ridinghood. Once protagonists of their own fairytales, the characters now meet each other as they venture into the woods.

Auditions will take place on June 1 and 2. For more information, call the audition hotline at 708.235.2244 or send an inquiry e-mail.

The 15th Annual Student Research Conference will be held on Wednesday, May 20, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at GSU. The conference provides students an opportunity to present their research work before an audience of their peers, and offers a forum to highlight research accomplishments at GSU. Students will make all the presentations.

Students may present a 15-minute podium presentation of their work followed by a five-minute question and answer session or they may display their work as a poster presentation. All abstracts will be published in the conference proceedings.

Faculty are asked to encourage students to participate in this valuable educational experience. The registration and abstract submission deadline is Friday, April 11. There is no registration fee.

For more information or for participation application forms, contact Dr. Shelly Kumar or visit the conference website.

The Civic and Community Engagement lecture series at Governors State University sponsored by the University Honors Program and the College of Arts and Sciences’ Political and Justice Studies Program continues with a presentation by Sister Catherine Ryan.

Sister Ryan is currently the Executive Director of Maryville Academy and was the Assistant State’s Attorney under Richard M. Daley. She also served for seven years as the Chief of the Cook county Juvenile Justice Bureau.

Her presentation, Bringing in the Community to Serve Juvenile Offenders, is on March 25, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., in the Hall of Honors.

For more information, contact Dr. Larry Levinson at ext. 4578.

Since 1969, GSU has touched tens of thousands of lives. To commemorate and record the positive impact and enduring memories of GSU, community members, alumni, students, retirees, or employees are asked to put their fingers to keyboards and record their stories.

Share the positive impact GSU has had on your life in 750 words or less. Many of the stories will be featured on the 40th Anniversary website. The top submissions will be announced at the GSU Gala Celebration on November 7 and will be printed in IMPACT, a publication commemorating the best submissions.

All literary genres are accepted via electronic submission to writingcompetition@govst.edu. No graphics please. Entries should be submitted as Microsoft Word documents only. The submission deadline is April 30.

For more information, visit the Writing Competition FAQ or contact Sheree Sanderson at ext. 3956.

The GSU Family Development Center is offering summer childcare for kindergarten to 12 year olds. The program accepts children from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Weekly field trips and swimming for eligible students are included. Payroll deduction required for discount.

Discounts are available for children and grandchildren of GSU students, staff, and faculty. Call today for more information, 708.235.7300.

GSU’s finest have put their pens to paper and submitted the craftiest of limericks. Join the St. Paddy’s celebration on Tuesday, March 17, in The Center Lobby as the Limerick Contest finalists present their entries and the top three bards are chosen by the audience.

GSU’s Brother 2 Brother chapter is sponsoring a popcorn sale on Tuesday, March 17, in the Hall of Governors. The fundraiser, which benefits the Cancer Support Center in Homewood, Illinois, starts and noon and ends when the popcorn runs out.

Each year, the Provost’s Office sponsors seed grants as a way to encourage research in and among our faculty, students, and staff. The funding is designed primarily to encourage scholarly activity. This year, the maximum grant is again $3500.

Completed applications are due to the Provost’s Office by 5 p.m., on Friday, May 1. All research and expenses must be incurred and completed and submitted during the 2010 fiscal year (July 2009-June 31, 2010) to be funded by these grants.

For more information, contact Margaret Neumann, Chair, URG committee, at ext. 4968.

The Master of Public Administration Club (MPAC) presents Soaring to New Heights: An Educational Forum on Saturday, March 28, from noon to 3 p.m. in the Cafeteria Annex.

Representatives from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs (CUPPA) will discuss doctoral programs in Public Administration and Urban Planning. Students interested in pursuing a juris doctorate will also have an opportunity to speak with representatives from John Marshall Law School. Lunch will be served.

For more information or to RSVP, e-mail antbanks35@hotmail.com.

If you’ve been saving your dimes and nickels until the last minute, now is the time to make you donation to GSU’s Campus Community Campaign. With only a few days left, the university needs your support, no matter how large or small the gift.

All employees are eligible for fabulous prizes including:

• A two night stay for two at the West Baden Springs Resort in French Lick, Indiana, with a choice of spa services or a round of golf.
• The Experience Chicago Tour including a two hour cruise of Lake Michigan from Chicago Charters, a pass for four to the Chicago History Museum, the Chicago Chocolate Tour and drinks and hors d’oeuvres at Quartino in River North

All employees are eligible to win – those who donate receive even more chances. Contact Joan Vaughan, Christine Radtke, Rosemary Hulett, or Jackie Small for additional information.

In the meantime, visit the Campus Community Campaign website to learn why many of your co-workers have already given.

Difficult times call for better preparation and better decision making. The Academic Resource Center (ARC) has teamed with various GSU departments to bring valuable workshops and presentations to the GSU community.

A workshop focusing on Strategies for Managing Debt in Troubling Times will be held on March 19, from noon to 1 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m., in room A1122. It is sponsored by ARC, the College of Business and Public Administration, and the Office of Economic Education.

A series of Career Preparation Workshops will provide information and guidance on self-awareness, interest analysis, resume building, and interview skills from March 23 to 26. See the GSU View event calendar for details. These workshops are sponsored by ARC and the Office of Career Services.

All workshops are free and everyone is welcome.

The Family Development Center (FDC) is now accepting applications for both the birth to three support and education program and the pre-kindergarten program.

Birth to three is free to eligible families. Discounts are available for children and grandchildren of GSU students, staff, and faculty enrolled in FDC prekindergarten. Payroll deduction required for discount.

Screening for children ages birth to three is on March 26. Screening for the pre-kindergarten full or half day programs is on April 3.

Visit the Family Development Center website. Call today for an appointment and more information, 708.235.7300.

Make a bid, get some great good, and support a worthy cause at the Cancer Awareness Silent Auction on March 17 and 18, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. The auction is sponsored by Student Life and the Cancer Support Center of Homewood. The Village Door, a consignment shop for gently used items, provides the items.

Information will also be available about various cancers and support services available. All proceeds benefit the free programs of support, information, and encouragement provided by the Cancer Support Center.

For more information contact Vanessa Newby at ext 4551.

Think you could show MJ and Shaq a couple of things? GSU’s Brother 2 Brother chapter is sponsoring a 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament on Saturday, March 28, at 10 a.m. The entry fee is $20 per team of four. The event is open to anyone and everyone. Spectators are also welcome. Admission is only $2 or a donation of canned goods. For more information, contact Adam Taylor at 708.235.7362.

GSU and the Homewood Rotary Club will host a forum for World Water Day 2009 on Wednesday, March 18, from 12:15 to 3 p.m., in The Center for Performing Arts. The focus of the discussion is Shared Water – Shared Opportunities.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Vreni Mendoza at ext. 3087.

An information session on the Criminal Justice bachelor’s degree program will be held at the GSU Naperville Education Center (NEC), on March 18, from 5 to 7 p.m. Learn more about the degree program offered entirely in Naperville.

The GSU Naperville Education Center is located at 2244 W. 95^th Street, Naperville, Illinois. For more information, visit the NEC website or call 800.478.8478, ext. 4099.

Submission deadline for entries in the Second Annual St. Paddy’s Day Limerick Contest is 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 10. All entries must be submitted to Lynn Clayton,  in room G256.

The rules are simple. The limerick topic is GSU and the GSU community. The content must be rated no higher than PG-13. Entrants are limited to three submissions.

Impartial judges will review the submissions to determine the finalists who will read their entries in The Center for Performing Arts lobby on March 17, from noon to 1 p.m. Three winners will be chosen.

Are you new to ordering supplies for your department through Office Max? What is the first step to placing a catering order for your next event? It can be stressful when you have questions but don’t know whom to ask. Below is a list of campus services and the key contacts for each:

Sodexo Catering
To place an order, go to https://gsucatering.catertrax.com/ or call Sodexo directly at x4496.
To inquire about billing, contact Joyce Giroux at x2216.

Office Max
All questions should be directed to Joyce Giroux at x2216.

Print Shop
All questions should be directed to Mark Clayton at x4498.

Bookstore
General questions should be directed to Follett at x4558.
Textbook related questions should be directed to Rhona Thompson at x4559.

Mail & Distribution
Questions regarding OUTGOING mail (including Fed Ex and UPS) should be directed to Paul Schwellenbach at x7429.
Questions regarding INCOMING mail or packages should be directed to Barb Lane at x7426.

Property Control
Questions regarding packages should be directed to Barb Lane at x7426.

Enjoy a free concert of excerpts from some of the world’s greatest operas by Opera Works and the Roosevelt University Symphony Orchestra on March 10, at 7:30 p.m., at The Center for Performing Arts.

The due date for Excellence Awards Nominations for valued and exceptional faculty members or academic support professionals for academic year 2008/2009 is fast approaching. Nominations are due by 5 p.m., on Wednesday, March 11.

The awards recognize outstanding achievement in one or more of the following areas: teaching/performance of primary duties, research/creative activity, and service. Any member of the GSU community, including self-nominees, may submit a one to two-page letter of nomination describing the nominee’s accomplishments.

Letters of nomination should be submitted to the Excellence Awards Committee in care of Jill Stanley, Provost’s Office. Late nominations will not be considered. For complete information, contact Rebecca Wojcik, Chair of the Excellence Committee. 

Two large recycling collection containers are located on campus so members of the GSU community and the surrounding area can recycle paper products.

The university has contracted with Abitibi Bowater, North America’s largest newspaper manufacturer and newspaper recycler, to pick up and reuse the paper products collected in the bins. Newspaper, magazines, catalogs, mail, office paper, and paperback books are accepted. Cardboard and phone books are not recyclable at this location.

The bins are located in the Wagner House parking lot, on the south side of Stuenkel Road, adjacent to the railroad tracks, and in the E parking lot off Exchange. 

For more information, contact Peggy Schiesher at ext 4515.

Students from the Social Work Program and the Student Senate of are sponsoring a forum on Civic Engagement on Thursday, March 12, from 6 to 7 p.m., in the Hall of Governors.

Panelists will include Dr. Larry S. Levinson, Director of the University Honors Program and Coordinator of Political and Justice Studies and Social Sciences programs; Dr. Phyllis W. Bell, Assistant Professor Social Work; Randall Vaughn, Community Organizer for the Illinois Coalition for Community Services; Ignacio Carrillo, Community Organizer for the South Suburban Action Conference and Gamaliel of Metro Chicago; and Carmin Garnica, President of the GSU Student Senate.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information call ext. 4550.

An Impromptu lesson, Enrollment by Major, will be given on Friday, March 13, at 11 a.m., in the ACS lab. For more information, contact Dr. Linda Buyer.  

The Student Health Care Management Association will hold its first meeting of the year on March 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., in the Hall of Honors. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to attend.

Speakers include Joseph Harrington, Assistant Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health and Dr. Stephen Martin, Chief Operating Officer of the Cook County Department of Public Health.

GSU is hosting a Health Fair and Bone Marrow Drive, on Wednesday, March 18, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., in the main entrance atrium.

Representatives from St. Mary’s Diabetic Center, the National Bone Marrow Program, and Chiro One Spinal Wellness Groups will be in attendance. Information regarding a variety of health-related issues will be available.

For more information, contact Lynn Christian.  

In honor of Women’s History Month, Monique Caradine Kitchens will discuss Community Empowerment and Today’s Media, on Wednesday, March 18, at 5 p.m., in E-Lounge. As a respected media professional and woman’s empowerment advocate, Kitchens strives to, “enrich lives, open minds, and push boundaries.”

This event is free and open to the public. It is sponsored by the GSU College of Arts and Sciences’ Distinguished Lecture Series and Lambda Pi Eta, the Communications Honors Society.

For more information, call ext. 3956 or visit the CAS website.

GSU will be hosting counselors from 17 Illinois community colleges on Friday, March 20. They will learn about new degree programs at GSU, revised admissions processes and standards for existing program, and why GSU is the best education option for transfer students. Organizers of Community College Counselors Day are requesting that the entire GSU community help make our guests welcome.

Civil Service staff are invited to a Chat with the President on Monday, March 9, from 9:30 to 11 a.m., in the Cafeteria Annex. Attendees are invited to bring their questions and ideas to this frank, open conversation with President Maimon and other university administrators. Contact Penny Perdue, at ext. 4130, for more information.

Who knows what and who wants to prove it? The gauntlet is thrown; the challenge is made. Who Wants to be in the Know?- a contest sponsored by the Academic Resource Center, Student Life, and the College of Arts and Sciences, will give two-member teams the opportunity to show what they know.

The contest takes place on March 30, from noon until 2 p.m., in the Cafeteria Annex. Questions will concern women’s history and health, women in sports, as entrepreneurs, and as artist, musicians, and entertainers.

This contest is part of the GSU celebration of Women’s History Month. Refreshments will be served. Teams must register by March 23 with Tamekia Scott at ext. 2228.

An effective way to assess instruction and learning will be presented on March 6, from noon to 1:30 p.m., in the cafeteria annex. This workshop is open to all GSU faculty, teaching staff, and adjuncts with free lunch to the first 20 people who register. Prof. Robert Druzinsky will present his experiences with using personal assessment feedback devices (clickers) in classroom settings.

To register for this workshop, email Barbara Mandel. Insert lunch in the subject line.

While some may view the limerick as not quite poetry, the Second Annual St. Paddy’s Day Limerick Contest is calling on those not adverse to this form of verse to wield their pens to create a unique GSU limerick.

The rules are simple. The limerick topic is GSU and the GSU community. The content must be rated no higher than PG-13. Entrants are limited to three submissions.

All entries must be submitted to Lynn Clayton, in room G256 by 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 10. Impartial judges will whittle the submissions to the finalists who will read their entries in The Center for Performing Arts lobby on March 17, from noon to 1 p.m. Three winners will be chosen. 

So stop your slackin’ and get crackin.’

The Prairie Trail Credit Union will be on campus on Thursday, March 12, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. They are available to enroll new members, provide information on services, and answer questions. The Credit Union offers payroll deductions as well as automatic paycheck deposit.

WebCT supports a wide variety of assessment types. This hands-on workshop presents the many ways educators can create and use these assessments in both classroom and online instruction. The workshop will be held on March 13, from 10 a.m. to noon, in the ACS lab, room D2438.

To register, contact Jan Engle. 

Difficult times call for better preparation and better decision making. The Academic Resource Center (ARC) has teamed with various GSU departments to bring valuable workshops and presentations to the GSU community.
 

A workshop focusing on Strategies for Managing Debt in Troubling Times will be held on March 19, from noon to 1 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m., in room A1122. It is sponsored by ARC, the College of Business and Public Affairs, and the Office of Economic Education.

A series of Career Preparation Workshops will provide information and guidance on self-awareness, interest analysis, resume building, and interview skills from March 23 to 26. See the GSU View event calendar for details. These workshops are sponsored by ARC and the Office of Career Services.

All workshops are free and everyone is welcome.

The 15th Annual Student Research Conference will be held on Wednesday, May 20, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at GSU. The conference provides students an opportunity to present their research work before an audience of their peers, and offers a forum to highlight research accomplishments at GSU. Students will make all the presentations.

Students may present a 15-minute podium presentation of their work followed by a five-minute question and answer session or they may display their work as a poster presentation. All abstracts will be published in the conference proceedings.

Faculty are asked to encourage students to participate in this valuable educational experience. The registration and abstract submission deadline is Friday, April 11. There is no registration fee.

For more information or for participation application forms, contact Dr. Shelly Kumar. 

Make a bid, get some great good, and support a worthy cause at the Cancer Awareness Silent Auction on March 17 and 18, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. The auction is sponsored by Student Life and the Cancer Support Center of Homewood. The Village Door, a consignment shop for gently used items, provides the items.  

Information will also be available about various cancers and support services available. All proceeds benefit the free programs of support, information, and encouragement provided by the Cancer Support Center.

For more information contact Vanessa Newby at ext 4551.

In recognition of President Obama’s Open Government Directive, will host a national webcast, which will include a “lively discussion from Washington, DC about open government, public engagement, and participation” by a national panel of government experts. It will be broadcast in the University Library (D2401C) on Friday, March 20, from noon to 1:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Greg Johnson at ext 7516 or visit the Open Government.org website.

The 2009 Illinois Community College Juried Art Exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the creative work of young artists and to get a glimpse of the extraordinary talent in the region. Selected works by art students currently enrolled in Illinois community colleges will be on display in the Visual Arts Gallery from March 11 through April 3.

Exhibiting artists include students from Heartland Community College, Joliet Junior College, Kankakee Community College, McHenry College, Oakton Community College, Parkland Community College, Prairie State College, South Suburban College, Triton College, and Waubonsee Community College.

A closing reception to celebrate the show and the artists and present merit awards is on Friday, April 3, from 1 to 3 p.m., in E-Lounge. Juror Jeremy Biles, of the Chicago Artists Coalition, will announce the award winners. The gallery is open Monday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, call ext. 4017.

Dr. Rosemary Johnsen, Assistant Professor of English, will make an appearance on the stage at Chicago’s Theater at the Water Tower Works after the March 21 matinee performance of Our Town by Lookingglass Theatre. The Raven Foundation of Chicago asked Johnsen to lead both the conversation and contribute an essay on the importance and meaning of Thornton Wilder’s play for the program, which will be distributed throughout the play’s run.

The Lookingglass production of Our Town stars David Schwimmer and runs through April 4. It received rave reviews after its February 11 debut. The discussion led by Johnsen is open to everyone attending the 3 p.m. performance on March 21.

Tickets for the performance are available by contacting the Lookingglass box office at lookingglasstheatre.org or 312.337.0665 Half price tickets are available from The Raven Foundation at 224.521.2491.

Students have the opportunity to learn some real life skills needed when meeting potential clients or employers in a social setting at the Etiquette Luncheon sponsored by the Office of Career Services. The lunch is on Tuesday, March 24, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., in the Hall of Honors. The event includes a full meal with manners instruction for each course, a fashion show presenting appropriate professional attire, and tips on social etiquette skills for professional settings.

Registration is required. The fee is only $5. For more information or to reserve, contact the Office of Career Services at 708.235.3974.

Students are invited to a Chat with the President on Wednesday, March 4, from 6 to 7 p.m., in the Cafeteria Annex. Attendees are invited to bring their questions and ideas to this frank, open conversation with President Maimon and other university administrators. Contact Penny Perdue, at ext. 4130, for more information.

The leadership of Eleanor Roosevelt will be discussed at a Leadership Dialogue sponsored by the

Metropolitan Institute for Leadership in Education (MILE), on March 21, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Hall of Governors.

Leadership the Eleanor Roosevelt Way: Timeless Strategies from the First Lady of

Courage will be led by Dr. Judith Everson. Participants are asked to read the book by the same title by Robin Gerber or be familiar with the topic.

Lunch is provided. There is no charge to participate. Pre-registration is required. Call ext. 4024.

Students from the Social Work Program and the Student Senate are sponsoring a public forum on Civic Engagement on Thursday, March 12, from 6 to 7 p.m., in the Hall of Governors.

Panelists include Dr. Larry S. Levinson, Director of the University Honors Program and Coordinator of Political and Justice Studies and Social Sciences programs; Dr. Phyllis W. Bell, Assistant Professor Social Work; Randall Vaughn, Community Organizer for the Illinois Coalition for Community Services; Ignacio Carrillo, Community Organizer for Gamaliel of Metro Chicago; and Carmin Garnica, President of the GSU Student Senate.

GSU and the Homewood Rotary Club will host a forum for World Water Day 2009 on Wednesday, March 18, from 12:15 to 3 p.m., in The Center for Performing Arts. The focus of the discussion is Shared Water – Shared Opportunities.

The event will include presentations on the current state of the water supply around the world, what is being done to improve access and quality, and what can be done in the future. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, contact Vreni Mendoza at ext. 3087.

The Friends of the GSU Library are collecting books, movies, and music during the month of March. Clean the shelves of what you have read, seen, or heard already.

New and used books, movies, and music can be dropped off at the Library. The Friends will use the donations to help raise funds for the Library and to sponsor programs. All donations are tax deductable as allowed by law. Visit the Friends website to find out how you can become a friend.

The GSU Foundation is seeking friendly, energetic students to work part time. Interested students will be asked to work one 20-hour week per month making phone calls as part of GSU’s Phone-A-Thon. For more information and to apply, call 708.235.2188.

The Student Health Care Management Association will hold its first meeting of the year on March 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to attend. Speakers include Joseph Harrington, Assistant Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health and Dr. Stephen Martin, Chief Operating Officer of the Cook County Department of Public Health.

Student Senate and Student Life are sponsoring a student trip to see the Chicago Bulls vs. New Orleans Hornets game, on Saturday, March 14, at 7:30 p.m. Students are eligible to win two tickets. Winners also receive transportation via charter bus to and from the game (space is limited), and a mini Chicago Bulls poster.

To enter, submit an email entry to gsudsil@yahoo.com. The subject line of the email should read “Let’s go Bulls!” Include your name, address, telephone number, and Student I.D. Number. All entries must be received by Thursday, March 5, by 11 p.m.

The drawing will occur on Friday, March 6, at noon. Winners will be notified via email the day of the drawing.

The Department of Public Safety is again participating in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics on June 10. T-shirts, hats, and pins are currently available for sale in DPS, room C1375. All proceeds support the Special Olympics. For more information, call ext. 4900.

In honor of Women’s History Month, CAS will host Leading by Example, a discussion led by Dr. Sharon M. Hudson, on March 3, from 5 to 7 p.m., in the Hall of Honors.

Dr. Hudson will discuss the different talents and characteristics that can either enhance or hinder effective leadership. The workshop is geared toward women, but men are encouraged to attend and share their views. As the co-author of Women as Leaders: Strategies for Empowerment and Communication, Hudson is uniquely qualified to lead the conversation.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Sheree Sanderson at ext. 3956.