Message from the Dean
Dr. Eric V. Martin
Greetings CAS!
Although it seems like it was only yesterday, some three months ago I welcomed our college to academic year 2009-2010. Now, with the Fall 2009 trimester racing to its inevitable conclusion, I couldn’t be prouder of our accomplishments so far this year.
For example, at the CAS all-college meeting on September 16, 2009, faculty and staff discussed the then upcoming reaccreditation visit of the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), our next steps in finalizing the CAS mission statement and strategic plan, and the formation of a CAS Advisory Board, among many other topics.
As of today, the HLC team has recommended GSU for a continuation of accreditation through AY2019-2020, and my work as a HLC co-chair has concluded. In addition, CAS has not only approved a new mission statement and finalized its strategic plan, but it is also in hot pursuit of the goals outlined therein, as exemplified by an increase of 6.5 percent in student credit hours since Fall 2008. Thank you, one and all, for your collective hard work in recruiting and retaining our exceptional students.
What’s more, the goal of establishing a CAS Advisory Board is being met. The first meeting of the board occurred on November 2, 2009 and included the following members:
• Kate Bensen, Vice President, Conlon Public Strategies
• Monique Caradine, President, Momentum Media Group
• Lynita Gebhardt, Director of Personnel Services, Prairie State College
Several additional members will be joining the board in the months ahead, and I very much look forward to working with them in pursuit of new opportunities for CAS.
In the new year, our hard work will continue, particularly in the areas of academic program development and review, the assessment of student learning, and let us hope at long last the renovation of E and F wings!
Until then, enjoy the holiday season, and I look forward to seeing all of you in 2010.
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 MFA on the Move...
Chicago Heights
 Chicago Heights, an adaptation of Sherwood Anderson's "Winesburg, Ohio," traces the stories of men and women from Chicago who struggle to achieve their dreams.
The movie is not as much about the city of Chicago Heights as it is about the southern and western portions of Chicago.
Professor Dan Nearing, Coordinator of the MFA program directed the 60-minute movie, which had its world premier at the Pusan International Film Festival, in South Korea.
Professor Nearing stated: "We didn't win the competition, but we are happy and honored to be among our excellent fellow also-rans. Both public screenings went well, with a couple of hundred people attending. The HD looked fantastic on a huge screen -- much better than expected. The performances are awesome in spite of our inscrutable story -- especially the main foursome of Andre Truss, Keisha Dyson, Jay Johnson, and Stewart Benny.
 "The audience response was polite and restrained, but consistent with reactions to other films in our section.
"The most pleasant surprise to me was to look at the other films. Nine of 11 were shot on 35mm and many are beautiful to look at.
"We asked the Finnish director, who won for her Finland/Germany co-production Last Cowboy Standing, about her budget. She said it was 1.8 million, which I realized meant Euros, which works out to $2.6 million.
Professor Nearing concluded: " Virtually all of the films appear to have had that kind of budget. The quality of most (not all) is really impressive, from story to directing to production values. Our wee experiment had a cash budget of $1,000 for food, some good basic equipment from GSU, and our colleagues. Everyone contributed their time and gas money."
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New Educational Initiatives
Criminal Justice Master's Degree Program Approved—Set to Start Spring/Summer 2010
The Illinois Board of Higher Education approved the University’s request for a Criminal Justice Master’s degree program at its mid-August 2009 meeting.
Since learning of the approval, the CJUS faculty has been gearing up for early admissions in Winter 2010. Several preparatory courses have been included in the Winter schedule and the program will officially open its doors to majors in the Spring/Summer 2010 trimester.
“It’s a busy time for us,” explained Dr. James "Chip" Coldren, program coordinator. “We’re terribly excited about the approval, the positive early responses, and the interest we’ve been receiving.”
The MA program focuses on leadership, justice system change and reform, and practical-problem solving programs and evaluations. Contact Dr. Coldren ( j-coldren@govst.edu) for more information about the CJUS-MA program. Back to top
Baysore Winner—Dr. Karen D'Arcy
 The Gerald C. Baysore Award is presented each year in memory of Dr. Baysore, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs for 18 years at GSU.
The Baysore Award is the highest honor GSU bestows on its employees.
This year's winner is Dr. Karen D'Arcy (pictured on right with Dr. Elaine Maimon), Chair of the Division of Science and Professor of Analytic Chemistry.
Dr. D'Arcy began her career at GSU in 1984 when Dr. Baysore was the Associate Provost. As Dr. D'Arcy reflected on her relationship with Dr. Baysore she stated, "I was a junior faculty member when I met Dr. Baysore in 1984. He was always available to provide assistance and encouragement. I specifically recall him working with the faculty senate. He supported ideas and concepts with ease. I feel inspired to have known him."
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In Pursuit of Excellence...
Congratulations to the CAS Faculty Excellence Awards Recipients.
- Dr. Diana Galante
- Dr. Tim Gsell
- Dr. Pamela Guimond
- Dr. Rosemary Johnsen
- Professor Dan Nearing
- Dr. Winfred Rudloff
- Professor Marilyn Yirku
Dean's List Ceremony
CAS held its Annual Dean's List Ceremony on September 24, 2009, in The Center for Performing Arts. The ceremony celebrated 97 CAS students who achieved academic excellence. They were presented with a special pin and certificate commemorating their achievements, followed by a get-acquainted reception.
Drs. Eric V. Martin, Dean (CAS); David Curtis, Interim Provost; and Karen D'Arcy, Chair Division of Science, made the presentation to students and their families.
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Hispanic Heritage Month
 The Center for Latino Excellence and the College of Arts and Sciences collaborated to present a wonderful line-up of events for Hispanic Heritage Month.
As part of the Distinguished Lecture Series at Governors State University, Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez spoke to students, faculty, and staff at a public presentation in October.
Alvarez is Cook County’s first female and first Latina State’s Attorney. Her message was simple -- even when you don't feel like you belong, never give up and never forget those who help you succeed.
Read more
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Innovative Instruction
GSU Intellectual Life Committee Presentation Provides "Real-World" Reporting Experience for MCOM Students
Students enrolled in MCOM450, Writing for Print Media, taught by adjunct faculty member Judi Mack, enjoyed a "real-world" reporting experience and an opportunity to develop their writing skills during an in-class field trip on the GSU campus. The students attended a presentation by Mel Katz, an experienced photographer, hosted by the GSU Intellectual Life Committee.
The student writers were able to develop reporting skills by covering the live event. They also learned more about visual images and by evaluating their shared experience as reporters.
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3rd Annual ArtsFest
The College of Arts and Sciences, Student Life, and Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park presented GSU's 3rd Annual ArtsFest on October 14. Approximately 100 students, prospective students, and community members participated this year.
The event consisted of interactive workshops taught by art and media communications faculty. Workshops included printmaking, photography, mosaics, digital imaging, creativity, and art history roundtables.
Additionally, the art faculty conducted portfolio reviews of prospective students and students were able to talk with the faculty and experience hands-on interactive sessions.
Two special presentations enhanced ArtsFest this year: a Distinguished Lecture by Icelandic artist Steinunn Þórarinsdóttir and an exhibit in the Visual Arts Gallery by Chicago artist Gabriel Villa. ArtsFest concluded with a festive reception for all participants.
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Steinunn Þórarinsdóttir
 The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park and the College of Arts and Sciences collaborated to present the The Icelandic artist Steinunn Þórarinsdóttir’s (pronounced Stay-nun Thorens-daughter) in the Distinguished Lecture Series for the ArtsFest.
Þórarinsdóttir discussed her work, its process, and the impact of Iceland on her figurative sculpture during her presentation entitled Horizons: The Figurative World of Steinunn Þórarinsdóttir.
Horizons is currently on exhibition in the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park here at GSU. The exhibition of 12 life-sized figures arrived at the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park in July, 2009.
Thorarinsdottir has exhibited widely in Europe and the U.K. and has been commissioned by both the Icelandic and English governments for major sculptural installations. She is currently working on a commission for the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.
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Non-Traditional Student Week
 GSU participated in the nationwide celebration of Non-traditional Students in Higher Education, established by the Association for Non Traditional Students in Higher Education (ANTSHE).
The goal is to recognize non-traditional students on campuses, as well as highlight efforts that improve the adult student environment.
GSU's Alpha Sigma Lambda (ASL), Gamma Sigma Upsilon Chapter Councilor, Lana Bilyk coordinated the festivities for our students. ASL is the National Honor Society for non-traditional students.
The week started with a pizza party in the Hall of Governors and concluded with Dr. Sharon Hudson’s (pictured) workshop on emotional wellness.
National Non-Traditional Student Week is held the first full week of November each year.
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 CLETC
The Center for Law Enforcement Technology Collaboration (CLETC) recently opened two certificate programs for students.
The Information Security and Digital Forensics certificates train individuals to combat the very real threat of computer network attacks, protect data from cyber crime, investigate computer crime, and secure evidence during an investigation.
The certificates provide the knowledge, tools, and practical experience needed to provide effective deterrents and quick responses.
In 2010, CLETC is planning a multi-day event, the Spring Institute, in collaboration with the Federal Signal Corporation. The event will be geared towards a specific discipline related to current Law Enforcement technology. The subject has not been finalized although the Center's directors have met with representatives from the Federal Signal Corporation and have several options available.
There will also be a technology refresher course in the summer of 2010. As the name implies, the CLETC will provide an update on technology or software that police departments designate. As with the Spring Institute, the subjects have not been finalized, but discussions with our board and local departments will ensure that the subjects are relevant and exciting.
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Art Forum Alumni Club
 The Art Forum Alumni Club and Dr. Arthur Bourgeois, Coordinator of the Art Program, presented the Rattle and Drum Workshop, Saturday, November 14, in E-Lounge.
A presentation was made by Professor Bourgeois. Participants surveyed rattles and drums as art expressions worldwide, then made and decorated their own objects.
Participants took part in a firelight drum circle, chant, and dance performance following in the workshop.
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CAS Welcomes
Join us as we welcome new faculty members to the university.
Christopher White
 Dr. Christopher White is an Assistant Professor of English at GSU. He completed his Ph.D. in English at The Pennsylvania State University in 2008. At GSU, he teaches undergraduate and graduate classes in American literature, contemporary literature, literary theory, and technical writing.
In addition to these core areas, his teaching and research interests include: modernism, postmodernism, narrative theory, and the intersections between literature and ecology, literature and philosophy, and literature and religion.
A Midwesterner by birth, he currently lives in Bourbonnais with his wife, Laura, and two young children, Sebastian and Beatrice.
Walter Henne
 This fall, Dr. Walt Henne returned to the GSU science labs where he first learned – and helped teach – college level chemistry and started his career in biomedical research.
As a Professor of Biochemistry, he will guide a new generation of students toward an understanding and appreciation of how to conduct responsible, effective scientific research that helps change our world.
Henne is a proud GSU alumnus who received a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1996 and a Master’s in Analytical Chemistry in 1999.
Henne received his doctorate in Chemistry at Purdue University.
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In the Spotlight
Distinguished Professor of Internet-Mediated Global Education
 Professor Winfried K. Rudloff, Ph. D., attended InterSymp’2009, the 21st International Conference on Systems Research, Informatics, and Cybernetics and the 29th Annual Meeting of the International Institute for Advanced Studies in Systems Research and Cybernetics, held in August, in Baden-Baden, Germany.
He presented the Keynote Address on WebCT as a Comprehensive Interactive Tool in Knowledge Transfer.
Dr. Rudloff and former GSU graduate student, Freddie B. Kato as principal coauthor, presented a second lecture on Can Computers “Understand” Natural Language? during the Symposium on Computer Science, AI, Logic, & Mathematics.
Restorative Justice Conference
 Caron Jacobson of the Criminal Justice faculty recently returned from one of the country’s largest gatherings of restorative justice practitioners in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where she attended a week long conference and training sessions.
Jacobson is currently conducting an assessment of the CJUS Program’s restorative justice curriculum. She hopes to facilitate trainings and implement restorative justice conferencing in the community.
“The impact restorative justice can have on multiple systems is absolutely amazing,” observed Jacobson.
The Wonders of Science
 Professor Richard Fox teaches physics and astronomy for the Division of Science.
In September, he presented the Views of Our Cosmic Context to The Adult Learning Exchange (TALE).
Fox discussed different ways of seeing the universe, including views of primitive societies and the evolution of Western views.
Artist on the Move
 Three distinguished judges for the Chicago Artists’ Coalition selected 21 artists to participate in The Coalition Gallery, 2010 West Pierce Avenue, in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood.
Jeff Stevenson was chosen as a member artist and has been in several group shows both in the Wicker Park location and in the River East Art Center in Chicago.
Jeff's exhibit, Objects of Affection, opened with a reception December 4, 2009. The show continues through January 9, 2010.
He has also been invited to exhibit his work and present an artist’s talk at Saint Cloud State University in St. Cloud, MN, in March 2010. In November and December 2010, Jeff’s work will be a feature of Quad City Arts, in Rock Island, IL.
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GSU's 40th Anniversary
 If you didn't attend, you missed an historic event. There was food, fun, and merriment, and, let's not forget, the Motown Revue.
It was a night to remember. Each college was asked to create a table that represented the past, present, and future. Most of the colleges presented pictures representing faculty, students, and community members.
Dr. Art Bourgeois was the CAS historian who took the trip down memory lane to identify the photos as we weighed through mounds of archival negatives.
CAS awarded a gift basket to the person who was able to identify the greatest number of faculty and staff from the past. Gordon Cochrane identified six out of nine images and won the CAS gift basket. The evening was full of surprises for Gordon who was also honored by the GSU Foundation with the prestigious Alumni Outstanding Community Award.
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Students in Focus
Student Laureate
 Each year, an outstanding senior from each of the four-year degree granting institutions of higher learning in Illinois is named a Student Laureate of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois.
The 2009 Lincoln Laureate from Governors State University is Adam Taylor.
Taylor exemplifies the characteristics of Lincoln Laureates who are chosen for their commitment to the principles of democracy and humanity as embodied by Abraham Lincoln.
Taylor has been an active and contributing member of the GSU community through his work as president of the Student Senate, participant in the Brother 2 Brother program, and member of the Black Student Union. As a student at GSU, he has worked as a Student Life assistant helping plan and implement student activities on campus.
Taylor will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with teacher certification and will student teach at Collin Powell Middle School in Matteson next year.
Hearts of Hope - Best Student Documentary
Mercedes Kane's MFA thesis film, Hearts of Hope, screened October 25, 2009, at the Illinois International Film Festival, and won their prize for Best Student Documentary. There were 300 people in attendance, including many of GSU MFA students and lecturers.
Mercedes stated, "The beautiful old theatre was packed, and the trek out to St. Charles was rewarding in itself. It was a great autumn day in the country. The film celebrates the work of a man who performs open heart surgery on babies. He was clearly overwhelmed and moved by the film and by the turnout of many of the families of former patients."
View the photos online at:
http://ignaciophotography.smugmug.com/Clients/Hearts-of-Hope/10100442_kQzfE#693680588_m66c4
Criminal Justice Student Society Scholarship
 Barbara Sharp of Kankakee received the Criminal Justice Student Society Scholarship. Barbara is an undergraduate student working toward a degree in Criminal Justice.
Barbara has loved helping people for many years and her ultimate goal is to become a police officer.
She currently works part-time as a private investigator. She takes pride in being a good mother and spends time volunteering at organizations that assist those in need, as well as with the Boy Scouts.
Lambda Pi Eta
Tiffany Bruessard takes the reins as President of Lambda Pi Eta, Kappa Kappa Chapter here at GSU. Lambda Pi Eta is the national honor society for the communications discipline. Tiffany is currently a graduate student in communications and a previous recipient of the Ralph Turner Scholarship.
Lambda Pi Eta's next induction will be March 2010.
James Wade Memorial Scholarship
CJUS undergraduate student Michael Klimek has been awarded the James Wade Memorial Scholarship by the South Suburban Association of Chiefs of Police. The Association recognized him, and GSU along with three other scholarship recipients from other colleges, at their monthly meeting on November 19, 2009.
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Dr. Joyce Mohberg Transition Award
Apply by December 18
Dr. Joyce Mohberg, Professor of Biology taught at GSU from 1978 until 2008. She developed a repertoire of chemistry demonstrations, teaching workshops in the summer for high school teachers, and engaged her chemistry foundation courses with pops, smokes, bangs, and dramatic color changes.
Joyce was a phenomenal woman, scientist, and teacher who was dedicated to GSU and her students. To continue her nurturing spirit the Mohberg Memorial Transition Award was established.
Applicants must be a GSU graduation candidate completing a baccalaureate degree in chemistry or biology or master’s degree in analytical chemistry or environmental biology. All applications are pending acceptance to a Ph.D. program in chemistry or related field or a professional health or science degree program.
Applications are available in the GSU Foundation, Financial Aid Office, or CAS Division of Science.
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World Aids Day
 The Academic Resource Center and the College of Arts and Sciences collaborated to present World Aids Day at GSU, December 1, 2009, from noon to 6 p.m., the Hall of Governors.
Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, Assistant Professor of History, CAS (pictured); Dr. Katherine Helm, Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the ARC; Dr. Raven James, Assistant Professor Addiction Studies, CHHS; Beverly Akins, Social Worker for Proactive Community Services (GSU Alum) and Justin Hill, Program Coordinator for Edge Alliance, Inc. were panelists on the open discussion of AIDS. Anjanette Young, Housing Coordinator for Edge Alliance, Inc. moderated.
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Upcoming Events
January
Art Exhibitions
February
- African American Read-In
- Umoja Drummers
March
- Scott Turow, lawyer, best-selling author and screenwriter
- Lines in the Sand: A Performance and Discussion on Identity, Media, and Immigration
- 2010 Illinois Community College Juried Art Exhibition
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