Purdue Liberal Arts News

Purdue Libraries celebrate new interactive classroom, start second of three-phase renovation

Mon, 2 Nov 2009 13:15:00 EST

Purdue University Libraries isn't just about books and resource materials anymore.

A new 40-seat interactive classroom aimed at engaging students in participatory activities has been completed in the Management and Economics Library on campus. It is the first phase of a three-part, $4.2 million renovation project that will transform the Management and Economics Library - also known as MEL - into a state-of-the-art business information center.

Researchers rest their case: TV consumption predicts opinions about criminal justice system

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:17:00 EDT

People who watch forensic and crime dramas on TV are more likely than non-viewers to have a distorted perception of America's criminal justice system, according to new research from Purdue University.

"These kinds of shows, such as 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,' 'Law & Order,' 'Cold Case' and 'The Closer,' are some of the most popular programs on television today, so it's important that we understand how they might influence people," says Glenn Sparks, a professor of communication who studies mass media effects. "We know they have inspired people to pursue careers in forensic science and law enforcement, but what are some of their other effects? We found that people who watch these shows regularly are more likely to overestimate the frequency of serious crimes, misperceive important facts about crime and misjudge the number of workers in the judicial system."

Prof: Childhood scares, fear of unknown can have lasting ill effects

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 09:24:00 EDT

Monsters and ghosts may headline Halloween, but when those sorts of specific fears are combined with fear of the unknown, the overall fright intensity can be quite high, says a Purdue University mass media effects expert.

"Fear is based on our judgment of the threat we are experiencing," says Glenn Sparks, a professor of communication. "That level can be intensified if there are unknowns about the threat, because uncertainty is an ingredient that feeds into general anxiety. Scary movies, just like the recent 'Paranormal Activity' and the older 'Blair Witch Project,' are considered exceptionally frightening because they build on the fear of the unknown. These films also are produced in a way to look real, and that also intensifies the level of fear because it helps to convince us that the depicted events could actually happen."

Former U.S. Poet Laureate to give reading at Purdue's Cancer Culture & Community symposium

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 12:29:00 EDT

Former U.S. Poet Laureate Donald Hall, a prolific writer who has been compared to Robert Frost, will deliver a reading of his works at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5 on campus as part of Purdue University's annual Cancer Culture & Community Colloquium.

Hall, who served as the nation's 14th poet laureate from 2006-07, will highlight a weeklong focus on Purdue's cancer research and academic programs by exploring the human expression of cancer through literature and the arts.

Earhart's legacy thrives at Purdue University

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:27:00 EDT

Amelia Earhart continues to inspire Purdue University students today just as she did more than 70 years ago when she coached young women about careers and flew above campus with the plane that would eventually disappear with her over the Pacific Ocean.

"Before Amelia Earhart climbed in the cockpit and captured the world's attention when she embarked on her flight around the world, the famous aviatrix was inspiring hundreds of Purdue students to pursue their dreams and careers," said Purdue President France A. Córdova. "She continues to captivate millions, and interest in her has been renewed because of the movie opening this month."

Sociologist hopes to inspire scholars to study the role of religion in China

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:31:00 EDT

A Purdue University sociologist is encouraging and empowering scholars to study religious trends and their effects on China.

Thanks to a $2 million grant from the John Templeton Foundation, Fenggang Yang, an associate professor of sociology, has developed a program to support new studies and train those researchers on methods to advance understanding on the role of religion in Chinese society.

Deborah Butterfield bronze horse sculpture to be installed at Purdue

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:17:00 EDT

A life-size bronze horse sculpture will be a new addition to the South Campus Plaza landscape in front of Purdue University's Yue-Kong Pao Hall.

The Deborah Butterfield sculpture, which will not be named until it is installed, will be located at the intersection of Sheetz and Wood streets. The installation is expected to begin around 10 a.m. Monday (Oct. 19).

Breast cancer survivors can find comfort in teams with athletic goals

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:40:00 EDT

Breast cancer survivors may find participation on a team that incorporates physical fitness, such as boating, walking or running, can help improve their quality of life, says a Purdue University sport and exercise psychologist.

"Many of these survivors' emotional, informational and social needs are met through traditional support groups or online groups," says Meghan McDonough, an assistant professor of health and kinesiology who studies the role relationships play in physical activity. "In addition, there are certainly some positive social and quality of life benefits associated with breast cancer survivors being active together and even competing in community events."

College invites public to experience the liberal arts

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 10:12:00 EDT

Purdue University's College of Liberal Arts will feature a variety of lectures, films, performances, events and exhibits in October.

More than 35 events that exemplify the research and teaching in the arts, humanities, behavioral sciences and social sciences will be featured throughout the month.

Gift sounds good to Purdue's speech, language & hearing sciences

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:05:00 EDT

Purdue University officials on Tuesday (Sept. 29) announced a $10 million gift from a former speech pathologist to the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences.

The gift, from alumna Marybeth Lyles Higuera (Pronounced EE-guera) of Palm Desert, Calif., will be used to fund construction of the Lyles-Porter Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences facility, which bears the name of the donor's families.

Expert to talk about Tennessee Williams

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EDT

Tom Adler, a noted authority on the work of playwright Tennessee Williams, will give a talk at 6:30 p.m. Oct.1 in the Carole and Gordon Mallett Theatre in Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts.

The event is free and open to the public, and is in conjunction with Purdue Theatre's production of "A Streetcar Named Desire," which runs from Sept. 25-30 and Oct.1-4 in the Nancy T. Hansen Theatre.

Health symposium focuses on aging brain

Thu, 3 Sep 2009 13:11:00 EDT

The aging brain is the theme for the Center on Aging and the Life Course's 2009 symposium at Purdue University.

The symposium, which is 1-5 p.m. Sept. 11 in the Purdue Memorial Union's West Faculty Lounge, will feature speakers discussing brain function, what happens when the brain ages, as well as how nutrition and genetics affect the brain.

Children are not the only ones in the game when it comes to sports

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 15:07:00 EDT

Parents who sign their children up for sports as part of an educational experience and to learn about teamwork may be learning some of the same lessons themselves, according to new research from Purdue University.

"People often think about how youth sport benefits children because of physical activity, self-confidence and friendships, but we found that parents also are affected when their children play organized team sports," said Travis Dorsch, a doctoral student in health and kinesiology who led the study.

Men with early stage dementia invited to participate in group

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:34:00 EDT

The Purdue University Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences is recruiting men with early stage dementia to participate in a group that provides weekly cognitive and language stimulation.

The group, Brainbuilders Men's Group, meets each Tuesday morning at University Place, 1700 Lindberg Road, West Lafayette. There are a limited number of openings for the Fall 2009 semester, and potential new members are being screened now. To learn more about the Brainbuilders Men's Group contact Anne Marie Kubat, clinical supervisor, at 765-494-3809, amkubat@purdue.edu.

New technology helps Parkinson's patients speak louder

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 13:24:00 EDT

Researchers have developed a new technology that helps Parkinson's patients overcome the tendency to speak too quietly by playing a recording of ambient sound, which resembles the noisy chatter of a restaurant full of patrons.

"People with Parkinson's disease commonly have voice and speech problems," said Jessica Huber, an associate professor in Purdue's Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences. "At some point in their disease they will have some form of voice or speech disorder that generally occurs a little later in the disease."

Liberal arts series highlights careers, alumni

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:33:00 EDT

C-SPAN founder Brian Lamb, Purdue President France A. Córdova and men's basketball coach Matt Painter will be among 14 speakers in a series featuring the university's College of Liberal Arts.

The fall class and speakers series is part of the LA Influentials course that is being offered to liberal arts students and taught by Irwin (Bud) Weiser, interim dean of Purdue's College of Liberal Arts.

Purdue Galleries presents a new season of exhibits

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:42:00 EDT

Purdue University Galleries will open a new season with an exhibit titled "Living Stone: The Cast Project," which will be on display in the Stewart Center Gallery from Aug. 31 to Oct. 11.

Inspired by Jim Dine, a contemporary American artist who created a series of drawings reinterpreting works of sculpture in the Glyptothek Museum in Munich, the display will recreate the ambience of a studio. With a series of prints by Dine as the backdrop, plaster casts originally used in studios will be displayed allowing visitors to draw inside the gallery. Artworks by visitors will be exhibited in the gallery in a salon-style display.

Forum to address violence against women

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:51:00 EDT

Purdue University's Center for the Study of Violence will host a forum on Aug. 26 on the issue of international violence against women.

Speakers will discuss violence against women and how ending the violence promotes economic opportunity, democratic governance and security. They also will discuss initiatives such as the International Violence Against Women Act, authored by Sen. Richard Lugar, R-Ind., and Vice President Joseph Biden, then a Democratic senator from Delaware.

Miami University official named Purdue's first vice provost for diversity

Thu, 9 Jul 2009 08:15:00 EDT

G. Christine Taylor, associate vice president for institutional diversity at Miami University of Ohio, has been named Purdue University's first vice provost for diversity and chief diversity officer.

The appointment, effective Aug. 24, was announced by Purdue President France A. Córdova and is subject to approval by the university's board of trustees.

Professor fears children will be haunted by Harry Potter film

Wed, 8 Jul 2009 10:31:00 EDT

The Harry Potter series began with a boy exploring the world of wizards, but the hero is growing up and the latest film may not be so friendly for children, says a Purdue University expert who studies the effects of scary movies.

"Harry Potter and his friends have matured, and so has the intensity in the films," says Glenn Sparks, professor of communication. "Parents often follow the rule that the older a child is, the safer it is for the child to see the movie. The research shows that this is not a very helpful rule to use. The older a child is, the more likely he or she will realize the possibility that some movie depictions can be discounted as fantasy, but that other realistic horrors can actually happen to people.

English professor appointed interim dean for College of Liberal Arts

Thu, 2 Jul 2009 08:11:00 EDT

Irwin "Bud" Weiser, professor and head of the Department of English, has been named the interim dean of Purdue University's College of Liberal Arts.

The appointment, effective Monday (July 6), was announced Thursday (July 2) by Randy Woodson, Purdue's executive vice president for academic affairs and provost.

Local children continue to win at Purdue PALS program

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 10:24:00 EDT

Even more children will benefit from Purdue University's award-winning Purdue Athletes Life Success Program this summer as the camp, its activities and its support keeps growing.

More than 400 children will attend the June 18 through July 17 program also known as PALS. Last year more than 350 children attended, and this year's program has a waiting list. The camp, for children 8-14, is free for the participants, who are selected based on referrals from local schools.

Miller Child Learning Center students to learn sign language

Tue, 19 May 2009 11:46:00 EDT

Children at the Ben & Maxine Miller Child Learning Center will learn about American Sign Language during a presentation on Thursday (May 21) by Purdue instructor Jill Lestina.

Lestina and her son, Jason, will demonstrate American Sign Language at 10:30 a.m. in the Maxine Miller Activity Room in Fowler House.

Historian remembers Memorial Day's beginnings

Tue, 19 May 2009 10:14:00 EDT

While Memorial Day traditions vary across the nation, a Purdue University historian says it's important to remember the holiday's origins.

"Credit really goes to thousands of Southern white women who were honoring Confederate soldiers a year after the Civil War ended," says Caroline E. Janney, an assistant professor of history. "The women led these celebrations because if Confederate men would have organized memorials in 1866, just after the war ended, their actions would have been considered treason.

Show me the money! Theaters gear up for summer blockbusters

Mon, 18 May 2009 09:42:00 EDT

Movie theaters will continue to be an affordable vacation destination for many people this summer, says a Purdue University pop culture historian.

"Historically, movies provide an escape for people during tough times," says Randy Roberts, distinguished professor of history. "Films often feature the resiliency of American characters and their triumphs.

Free screenings at Purdue to test hearing, speech and language

Thu, 7 May 2009 10:29:00 EDT

Purdue University's M. D. Steer Audiology and Speech-Language clinics are offering free hearing, speech and language screenings on May 27 as part of Better Hearing and Speech Month.

The screenings are from 9 a.m. to noon in Heavilon Hall, Room B-11, and are free and open to adults over the age of 18. Appointments are recommended and can be made in advance by calling 765-494-4229. Walk-ins will be based on availability.

Purdue students to debut children's exercise video on Mother's Day

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:17:00 EDT

A children's exercise video produced by Purdue University students and starring the Purdue Pete mascot will be shown to the public on May 10.

"A Head Start To Exercise," a fitness film aimed at preschoolers, will be screened from 2-3:30 p.m. on Mother's Day at the Lafayette Theatre, 600 Main St., Lafayette. The event, which is free and open to the public, will feature games geared for 3-5-year-olds. Children also will be able to exercise in front of the large movie screen while the seven-minute film repeats. In the video, former Purdue Golduster Dance team member Lindsey Mayer leads Purdue Pete and a group of Head Start students through a variety of exercise routines. The film also is dubbed in Spanish.

Purdue students, alumnus win national new media and learning competition with Digital Democracy Contest

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 08:33:00 EDT

A team of three Purdue University students led by a 2008 graduate won the young innovator division of the MacArthur Foundation's Digital Media and Learning Competition.

The team, which proposed a free Web-based contest to help high school government teachers educate students, was awarded $9,000 as one of five winning projects.

Swine flu experts

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:54:00 EDT

Note to Journalists: The Purdue University experts below can discuss the following issues:

Religion expert will talk about Communion

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:21:00 EDT

Thomas Norris, a priest in the Diocese of Ossory in Ireland, will present "Towards a Theology of Communion" on May 6 in Purdue University's Krannert Auditorium.

The 7 p.m. event, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by the College of Liberal Arts' Religious Studies program and the Aquinas Education Foundation.

Baseball Experts List

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:18:00 EDT

Professor takes swing at history of baseball, scandals

Randy Roberts, distinguished professor of history, can talk about the history of baseball and government's role in policing the baseball steroids scandal. He also has written a book about Boston sports, which highlights the Red Sox. Roberts, who is an American pop culture historian, also is the author of 12 other books on history and sports.

Roberts' homepage: http://www.cla.purdue.edu/history/directory/?personid=48

Contact: 765-494-0040, rroberts@purdue.edu

Liberal Arts public square forum to focus on debt, financial crisis

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 12:31:00 EDT

Financial panelists will talk about debt and today's financial problems during a public square forum organized by Purdue University's College of Liberal Arts.

"Who's at Fault? Causes of Our Current Financial Problems and What to Do," which is free and open to the public, is 6 p.m. May 5 at the Tippecanoe Room in the Tippecanoe County Building, 20 N. Third St., Lafayette. The program is sponsored by the College of Liberal Arts engagement office.

College of Liberal Arts names 2009 distinguished alumni

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 11:18:00 EDT

Purdue University's College of Liberal Arts honored five people as its 2009 distinguished alumni.

Recipients are Mark S. Andrews, M. Leroy Keyes, Lorraine Olson Ramig, Thomas H. Scholl and John W. Stauffer. They were honored at a banquet on Friday (April 17).

U.S.News ranks Purdue's graduate programs among country's best

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 08:13:00 EDT

Purdue University's programs remain among the best in the nation in U.S.News & World Report's rankings of the top graduate schools released Thursday (April 23).

"The quality of graduate programs impacts and enhances the overall educational quality of a university," said Purdue Provost Randy Woodson. "These rankings reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that a Purdue degree stands for a world-class educational experience that retains its value in the real world. This, in turn, translates into the ability to attract top-notch students who want to share in and be a part of our progress."

Liberal arts symposium focuses on religion, spirituality in China

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 09:19:00 EDT

Religion and spirituality in China is the theme for Purdue University's 2009 Center on Religion and Chinese Society symposium.

The event, which is free and open to the public, is April 30 and May 1 in the Burton D. Morgan Center, Room 121, at Purdue's Discovery Park.

Free online writing lab aids job seekers in preparing resumes, letters

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 15:01:00 EDT

Job seekers wanting to make the "write" first impression can benefit by using the resources of Purdue University's Online Writing Lab.

"During this tough job market, it's critical that resumes and cover letters be error-free," says Tammy S. Conard-Salvo, acting director of the Writing Lab. "Because of today's economic hardships, many professionals are updating their resumes to find a job, which is something they may have not done in many years."

Study: Don't be in the dark about effects of leaving others out of the loop

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 12:38:00 EDT

Workplace ostracism hurts employees' feelings, and the impact on job performance can hurt the company's bottom line, according to new research from Purdue University.

"Most of us have been given the silent treatment on occasion, but being out of the loop, especially if it frequently happens at work, may have more negative consequences than we thought," says Kipling D. Williams, a professor of psychological sciences who studies ostracism. "Even when people are included and acknowledged to some extent in a group setting, there is still some damage accruing when they experience periods of being in the dark. And, because this happens more frequently, its effects may be more serious than the cold shoulder."

Purdue Repertory Dance Company to perform Spring Works Concert

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 10:18:00 EDT

The Purdue Repertory Dance Company will present its Spring Works 2009 Concert on May 1 and 2.

The dance company, which is the Patti and Rusty Rueff Department Visual and Performing Arts resident modern dance company, will perform eight new dances created by faculty and student choreographers. The concert is at the Nancy T. Hansen Theatre in Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts.

Indiana stimulus money for new jobs could step up physical activity

Wed, 8 Apr 2009 15:58:00 EDT

The federal stimulus money invested in Indiana's natural resources may not only stimulate the economy but also people's interest in physical activity, says a Purdue University public health expert.

Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels announced last week that more than $20 million in federal stimulus money will be used to hire more than 2,000 young adults for the Young Hoosiers Conservation Corps program, which is aimed at improving parks and trails.

Cognitive Literary Studies Center focuses on 200th Darwin anniversary

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 10:01:00 EDT

Purdue University's Center for Cognitive Literary Studies will feature a talk on the evolution of the human brain on April 14 to mark the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin's birth.

Merlin Donald, professor of cognitive science at Case Western Reserve University, will present "What We Were, What We Are Becoming: Cognitive Evolution." The talk, which is free and open to the public, is 5 p.m. in the Krannert Auditorium.

Youth violence expert talks about 10th Columbine anniversary

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 09:42:00 EDT

The 10th anniversary of the Columbine High School killings is a good time to talk about youth violence and how youth are perceived, says a Purdue University author.

"One way we try to understand tragedy is through how we memorialize the event," says J. William Spencer, an associate professor of sociology. "Even 10 years later, there is still a lot we can learn from how the victims and shooters were remembered and the debate over the shooters' memorials."

Artist will rap 'Canterbury Tales' at Purdue

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:22:00 EDT

Hip-hop artist Baba Brinkman will present "The Rap Canterbury Tales" on April 13 at Purdue University.

The performance, which is free and open to the public, is 5:30 p.m. in the Krannert Auditorium. In addition to the event, Brinkman also will meet with Purdue students during a rap-writing workshop earlier in the day, says Robyn Malo, a Purdue assistant professor of English. Students interested in the rap-writing workshop must pre-register by e-mailing Malo at rmalo@purdue.edu. This session, which is co-presented by the Black Cultural Center, is limited to 25 students.

Purdue professors contribute to Stopping Child Abuse Summit

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 10:51:00 EDT

Purdue University communication and nursing professors are participating in the fourth annual Stopping Child Abuse Summit on April 8.

The "Connections Count" summit is 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Christ United Methodist Church, County Road 350 S. and S. 18th St. in Lafayette. The registration fee is $25 before March 31 and $35 after. For more information or to register online, visit http://www.ourkidstippecanoe.org

Liberal Arts students build healthier communities

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:42:00 EDT

Students in Purdue University's College of Liberal Arts are helping the community with a variety of healthy outreach efforts, including improving veterans' residences, offering Spanish translation services in medical settings and educating motorists about motorcycle safety.

The 2009 Community Building program is offered through the College of Liberal Arts engagement office, and it funds six classes and two programs that focus on building healthy communities.

Pulitzer prize winning-poet to speak at 2009 Literary Awards

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 09:15:00 EDT

Pulitzer prize-winning and former U.S. poet laureate Rita Dove is the featured speaker for the 78th annual Literary Awards on April 15 in Stewart Center's Fowler Hall.

The 8 p.m. event, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by the Department of English, Purdue Libraries, the College of Liberal Arts and the Black Cultural Center.

Comic book artists reveal their 'Secret Identities' with Purdue visit

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 13:47:00 EDT

A group of comic book artists and writers, including former West Lafayette resident Bernard Chang, will visit Purdue University on March 30 as part of the "Secret Identities" book tour.

The 7:30 p.m. event at Stewart Center's Fowler Hall, will feature a book discussion, interactive presentation and book signing. Chang, who lived in West Lafayette from 1978-82 when his father was a Purdue professor, is an artist for "Iron Man" and "Wonder Woman." In addition to Chang, "Secret Identities" editors Jeff Yang, Parry Shen and Keith Chow will make presentations. The event is free and open to the public.

Panel will discuss events in Middle East, Afghanistan, Persian Gulf

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 10:04:00 EDT

A panel discussion will focus on "Conversations on Israel & Palestine, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf: Proposals for President Obama" on Thursday (March 26) at Purdue University.

The event, which is free and open to the public, is 7:30-9:30 p.m. in Stewart Center, Room 206. The panel will feature:

Inaugural history lecture series features Civil War speaker

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 10:32:00 EDT

The Purdue University Department of History's inaugural Stover Lecture Series begins April 1, and the talk will focus on how the Civil War is portrayed in movies.

Gary W. Gallagher, the John L. Nau III Professor in the History of the American Civil War at the University of Virginia, will present "Emancipation and Reconciliation - but not for the Union: Hollywood's Treatment of the North's Civil War since 'Glory.'" The talk, which is free and open to the public, is at 7 p.m. in Stewart Center's Fowler Hall.

Holocaust conference to focus on resisters, rescuers, refugees

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 09:25:00 EDT

The 28th annual Greater Lafayette Holocaust Remembrance Conference will be March 29-April 3 on the Purdue University campus and in other West Lafayette and Lafayette locations.

Planned by the Greater Lafayette Holocaust Remembrance Conference Committee, this year's conference is titled "Resisters, Rescuers and Refugees."

Design students place in international competition

Thu, 5 Mar 2009 12:01:00 EST

A Purdue University student who placed first at the 16th annual Student Design Competition sponsored by the International Housewares Association will display her residential fire escape ladder at a professional show in Chicago.

Nora Flood, a junior in the College of Liberal Arts from Grapevine, Texas, received $2,400 for her first-place design Escape, a ladder that uses the window frame for support rather than hooking onto the windowsill.

Flu experts

Mon, 2 Mar 2009 10:48:00 EST

Pam Aaltonen

Associate professor, director of engagement and interim assistant head of the School of Nursing

Aaltonen can talk about what people can do to protect themselves from the flu virus and what people can do to recover faster if they are already sick. She teaches courses in public health science, public health nursing, and integrated nursing care over the life and health continuum. Aaltonen is a member of the American Public Health Association and the Indiana Public Health Association. She received her bachelor's degree in nursing from St. Olaf College in Minnesota and a master's degree in public health nursing from the University of Illinois.

Business conditions in China, India topic of Purdue symposium

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 12:36:00 EST

Current business opportunities and challenges in China and India is the topic of a professional symposium March 28 at Purdue University's Burton D. Morgan Center of Entrepreneurship in Discovery Park.

The 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. event is free and open to the public, but registration is required.

Speaker talks about the art of appraising art

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 14:31:00 EST

A curator from the Indianapolis Museum of Art will present "Challenges for a Curator: Acquiring and Analyzing Asian Art" on March 6 at Purdue University.

The event, which is free and open to the public, is 1:30-2:45 p.m. in Rawls Hall, Room 2070.

Purdue Galleries presents 'Urban Legends and Rural Myths'

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 11:06:00 EST

Purdue Galleries will present an art exhibition of "Urban Legends and Rural Myths," from March 9 to April 26 in the Stewart Center Gallery.

Fifteen contemporary artists from across the United States are represented, with works that suggest new myths and tall tales.

African American studies presents talk on Toni Morrison

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:05:00 EST

Purdue University's African American Studies and Research Center on March 5 will present "Toni Morrison, Théodore Géricault, and Incendiary Art."

The talk, which is free and open to the public, will feature Nancy J. Peterson, an associate professor of English and American studies. The talk is from 3-4:30 p.m. in the Black Cultural Center's Multipurpose Room 1.

Liberal arts seeking nominees for young alumni award

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 10:52:00 EST

Purdue University's College of Liberal Arts is seeking nominations for the 2009 Emerging Voice Awards.

History department to present talk about science during Soviet times

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 10:31:00 EST

Karl Hall, a professor at Central European University in Budapest, Hungary, will present "Atomic Physics and Soviet Socialism in Stalinist Russia" on Feb. 25 at Purdue University.

Hall's talk, which is free and open to the public, is 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. in the Lawson Building, Room 1142. The talk is sponsored by the Department of History.

Purdue Theatre to stage dark classic 'Dracula'

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 10:25:00 EST

Purdue's Division of Theatre will present the classic thriller "Dracula" in the Nancy T. Hansen Theatre of the Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts, 552 W. Wood St.

The production will take to the stage at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 27 and 28 and March 4-7. There will be matinee showings at 3 p.m. March 7 and 8. A special preview of "Dracula" also will be offered at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26, with all seats general admission at a discounted price.

International sports effort scores in the Middle East

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 09:24:00 EST

Sports are more than just fun and games. They can enrich lives, build bridges of understanding and promote peace.

Basketball is more than just a sport to many in Indiana, and we're sharing our love of the game with countries in the Middle East.

Free screenings at Purdue to test hearing, speech and language

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 14:56:00 EST

Purdue University's M.D. Steer Audiology and Speech-Language clinics are offering free hearing, speech and language screenings on March 4.

The screenings are from 9-11:30 a.m. in Heavilon Hall, Room B-11. The screenings are free and open to adults over the age of 18. Appointments are recommended and can be made in advance by calling (765) 494-4229. Walk-ins will be based on availability.

Expert talks about political dynamics of Somalia

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 13:26:00 EST

The media often focus on Somalia's ties to pirates, but a Purdue University professor says the news is really about the evolving government in this Horn of Africa country.

"Somalia is a very strategic place because it is on the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden where some of the major shipping lanes are," says Michael Weinstein, a professor of political science who studies politics in Somalia. "This area also is called the third front for the war on terrorism, so it's important that we follow what is happening inside this country."

Galleries exhibition to highlight intersection of gardens, machines

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:42:00 EST

An exhibition examining nature and technology in American suburbs will be on display from Feb. 16-26 in the Patti and Rusty Rueff East Gallery in the Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts at Purdue.

The exhibition, "Gardens and Machines: The Suburban Life," features the work of five students who are enrolled in an art and design course taught by Shannon McMullen, an assistant professor in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts. The participating students include Micah Bowers, John Cessna, Michael Jamison, Aaron Nemec and Juan Obando.

Historians, journalists will discuss President Obama, civil rights

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 10:10:00 EST

A panel, including an independent journalist and former Newsweek national correspondent, will discuss President Barack Obama, civil rights and black voting history on Feb. 26 at Purdue University.

"Electing the Dream: Barack Obama, Civil Rights and African Americans' Voting Past," which is free and open to the public, is 7 p.m. in Stewart Center, Room 206. The event is sponsored by the Department of History and is in recognition of Black History Month.

Purdue gallery to feature 'Sad Girl/Clever Boy' project

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:34:00 EST

A collaborative performance-based exhibit will be on display through Feb. 20 in the West Gallery of the Patti and Rusty Rueff Galleries located in Purdue's Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts.

"Sad Girl/Clever Boy" is a project that seeks to explore two popular trends among emerging contemporary artists, mainly post-feminist representation in female artists and prolonged or glorified adolescence in male artists.

President Lincoln Experts

Mon, 9 Feb 2009 11:45:00 EST

Prof: Lincoln fought slavery's spread to Latin America, not just West

Robert May, a professor of history who teaches a class on Lincoln and the Civil War, can talk about the life and history of Lincoln, especially his efforts to fight the expansion of slavery outside of the United States. He also explains Lincoln's determination to stop slavery's spread southward in his books about filibustering -- "Manifest Destiny's Underworld: Filibustering in Antebellum America" and "The Southern Dream of a Caribbean Empire: 1854-1861."

May's homepage: http://www.cla.purdue.edu/history/directory/?personid=1515

CONTACT: (765) 494-4131, mayr@purdue.edu

'Miles From Nowhere' author to speak at Purdue

Mon, 9 Feb 2009 10:12:00 EST

Nami Mun, the author of "Miles From Nowhere," will speak on Feb. 26 at Purdue University.

The talk, which is free and open to the public, is at 7:30 p.m. in the Krannert Auditorium. The talk is presented by the Department of English and Sycamore Review, which is Purdue's nationally recognized journal of literature, opinion and arts.

Area creativity to be featured in 'Tippecanus Rex'

Wed, 4 Feb 2009 15:32:00 EST

Purdue University Galleries and the Tippecanoe Arts Federation invite local artists, writers and performers of all ages to participate in a communitywide project of creativity, imagination, myth and tall tales called "Tippecanus Rex."

"Tippecanus Rex" (Tipp-eh-can-us Rex) will highlight the invented history of the Tippecanoe County region through visual, performing, musical and literary art. It will be presented from April 1 through May 10 at the Tippecanoe Arts Federation, which is in the Wells Community Cultural Center at 638 North St., Lafayette.

Prof: Oscars will set stage for Hollywood to address economy

Mon, 2 Feb 2009 12:56:00 EST

The 2009 Academy Awards show is likely to be the public platform where Hollywood and its stars will address the current economic crisis, says a Purdue University pop culture historian.

"The first statement from Hollywood about the economy will be at the Oscars," says Randy Roberts, a Distinguished Professor of History. "We'll see how the economy is affecting Hollywood by what films, such as 'Slumdog Millionaire,' win and are highlighted, and we'll hear what celebrities say during the awards show. I expect there will be statements about the economic crisis in many acceptance speeches."

Historian: Obama will affect how we remember Lincoln on the 200th anniversary

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:43:00 EST

The connections between presidents Barack Obama and Abraham Lincoln define Obama's image today, but these associations also influence how Lincoln will continue to be remembered, says a Purdue University historian.

"Lincoln, who was born 200 years ago on Feb. 12, is known as a great speechwriter, thinker and consensus builder," says Caroline E. Janney, an assistant professor of history who studies Civil War memorials and remembrance. "While people are watching how Obama is following Lincoln, many may not realize that today's president is shaping the way we remember the 16th president. Memory is always crafted by its contemporary context."

African American Studies features exhibit during Black History month

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 10:02:00 EST

Purdue University's African American Studies and Research Center and the Black Cultural Center will feature an art exhibit, reception and gallery talk during February.

The Black History month art exhibit is titled "To Know My Mother's Name." The portrait exhibit is by Delita Martin, a Purdue graduate student in the Patti and Rusty Rueff Department of Visual and Performing Arts. The exhibit is on display from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Black Cultural Center, 1100 Third St.

New winter exhibits on display in Rueff Galleries

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 14:37:00 EST

Two new exhibits are now on display in the Patti and Rusty Rueff Galleries at Purdue University.

The two exhibits will run through Feb. 6. The galleries are located in the Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts, 552 W. Wood St., and are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Gallery exhibits are free and open to the public.

Book explores attitudes of black Americans toward Supreme Court

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:15:00 EST

The U.S. Supreme Court helps shape public opinion, according to a new book by two Purdue University political scientists.

"When the Supreme Court rules on a controversial issue, it pulls public opinion in the direction of its decision," says Rosalee A. Clawson, an associate professor of political science.

Speech perception study looking for subjects

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 09:02:00 EST

A Purdue University researcher is looking for adults to participate in a speech perception study in the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences.

Participants will participate in a listening session that is one to three hours, and the compensation is $10 per hour. People interested in participating must be 18 years or older, be native speakers of American English, have normal hearing and normal or corrected-to-normal vision.

Literary Reading Series features poet in February

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 10:25:00 EST

The Purdue University Literary Reading Series will feature poet Craig Arnold during a reading in February.

Arnold will present a poetry reading at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 9 in the Hicks Undergraduate Library Bookstall. The event, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by the Department of English and the Creative Writing Program.

Religion expert will talk about Virginia Woolf, Edith Stein

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 10:08:00 EST

Ann Astell, a professor of theology at the University of Notre Dame, will present "Seeking Sanctuary: Virginia Woolf's 'A Room of One's Own' and Edith Stein's Carmel" on Feb. 18 at Purdue University.

Astell's talk, which is free and open to the public, is 4:30 p.m. in the Krannert Auditorium. The talk is sponsored by the College of Liberal Arts' Religious Studies program and the Aquinas Educational Foundation.

Historian to talk about how photography can promote equality

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 08:57:00 EST

Purdue University will present "Visual Democracy: How Dorothea Lange Used Photography to Promote Equality" at 7 p.m. Feb. 12 in the Krannert Auditorium.

Linda Gordon, the Florence Kelley Professor of History at New York University, will present the talk, which is sponsored by the Department of History and the Purdue chapter of Phi Beta Kappa. Gordon also is a Phi Beta Kappa Visiting Scholar. The event is free and open to the public.

Prof: President's first 100 days is an unrealistic measure for action

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:29:00 EST

Measuring a president's long-term success by his first 100 days in office might be hasty, but those initial three to four months can reveal the administration's tone, says a Purdue University presidential scholar.

"The 100-day measuring stick goes back to President Franklin D. Roosevelt's first 100 days in office," says Bert Rockman, professor and head of the Department of Political Science. "It was a term historians coined for FDR's accomplishments, and now it's a good story for media and political analysts. It's a phrase that should be wiped from the books, because the U.S. political system takes time to do significant things, and it was meant to be that way by the founders.

Writing contest open to Purdue, Indiana high school students

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:30:00 EST

Students from Purdue University and Indiana high schools are invited to submit their writing to the 78th annual Literary Awards contest, which features more than 70 awards, totaling more than $10,000 in prize money.

Literary Reading Series features Princeton poet in January

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:06:00 EST

The Purdue University Literary Reading Series will feature poet Susan Stewart during a reading on Jan. 29.

Stewart, who is author of the poetry collections "Red Rover," "Columbarium," "The Forest," "The Hive" and "Yellow Stars and Ice," will speak at 7:30 p.m. at the Hicks Undergraduate Library Bookstall. The event, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by the Department of English and the Creative Writing Program.

Books and Coffee series warms February with science fiction and fantasy

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 10:38:00 EST

The weekly February Books and Coffee series will begin on Feb. 5 and will feature four books that all have elements of fantasy.

Books and Coffee is free and open to the public. The event begins at 4 p.m. when tea, coffee and baked goods are available, and the half-hour book talks begin at 4:30 p.m.

New program offers community language, translation services

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 09:59:00 EST

Purdue University's College of Liberal Arts is offering a program on language and translation services to help non-English speaking individuals and organizations in the Greater Lafayette community starting this month.

The Community Assistance Program, part of the College of Liberal Arts' engagement office, also is available to collaborate with other Purdue colleges and schools in their language outreach initiatives.

Prof to parents: Use inauguration to talk to children about race issues, tolerance

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:52:00 EST

President Barack Obama's Jan. 20 inauguration will provide a great starting point for families to talk about race, diversity issues and tolerance, says a Purdue University psychology expert.

"Black parents can build cultural pride and a positive black identity by making time to talk about these current events," says Mia Smith Bynum, an associate professor of psychological sciences who studies how black parents talk to children about racism and how families cope with racism.

Chinese New Year's celebration honors the Year of the Ox

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:21:00 EST

The Confucius Institute at Purdue University is celebrating the Chinese New Year on Jan. 23.

The celebration, which is free and open to the public, is 2-4 p.m. at the Purdue Memorial Union, Room 118. The event will feature Chinese food, music and calligraphy.

Purdue's electrical and computer engineering head to lead grad school

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 08:32:00 EST

Mark J.T. Smith, head of Purdue's School of Electrical and Computer Engineering since 2003, will become the new dean of the university's Graduate School, Provost Randy Woodson announced Wednesday (Jan. 14).

Smith's appointment will be effective Feb. 17 and is subject to ratification by the board of trustees. Woodson said Smith also will continue to serve as the Michael J. and Katherine Birck Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Prof: Lincoln fought slavery's spread to Latin America, not just West

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:17:00 EST

The 200th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln's birth is a time for people to learn more about America's 16th president, says a Purdue University Civil War historian.

"President Lincoln is on a lot of people's minds today, partly because of President-elect Barack Obama," says Robert May, a professor of history who teaches a class on Lincoln and the Civil War.

Speech and hearing study looking for subjects

Fri, 9 Jan 2009 09:06:00 EST

A Purdue University researcher is seeking adults to participate in a listening study in the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences.

Karen Iler Kirk, professor of speech, language and hearing sciences, is leading the study. Participants will participate in four sessions, with each session lasting 60-90 minutes. Hearing and vision screenings will be completed during the first visit. Those who pass the screenings will be asked to identify voices while listening to sentences spoken by several different talkers.

Support group for Parkinson's patients offers monthly meetings

Thu, 8 Jan 2009 08:55:00 EST

Purdue University's Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences is sponsoring a support group for people with Parkinson's disease and their families.

The group sessions, which are free and open to the public, are 5-6 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at Westminster Village, 2741 N. Salisbury St., West Lafayette. Jessica Huber, an associate professor of speech, language and hearing sciences, is the facilitator.

New biography features the father of the Harlem Renaissance

Tue, 6 Jan 2009 11:52:00 EST

A new biography highlights the life of Alain L. Locke, the father of the Harlem Renaissance credited with promoting and influencing famous African-American artists such as Langston Hughes, Zora N. Hurston and William G. Still.

"Alain L. Locke: The Biography of a Philosopher," is written by Leonard Harris, Purdue University professor of philosophy, and Charles Molesworth, professor of English at Queens College, City of the University of New York. The book ($45) was published in December by The University of Chicago Press.

Children and Giving Experts

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 13:54:00 EST

Nice holiday gifts for kids don't require big spending

Judith Myers-Walls, an associate professor, Extension specialist and certified family life educator, says you can give children nice holiday gifts without spending a lot of money. Myers-Walls can talk about at least four ways to give inexpensive gifts.

Personal home page: http://www.cfs.purdue.edu/cdfs/pages/fac_staff/myers_walls.html

CONTACT: (765) 494-2959, jmyerswa@purdue.edu

Holiday Experts

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:24:00 EST

Dickens expert: 'A Christmas Carol' highlights 'Hard Times' of 2008

William J. Palmer, a professor of English, can talk about Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," especially how the story relates to the economically bleak 2008 holiday season. Palmer, an expert on Dickens, is the author of four mystery novels that draw on his expertise as a Victorian-age scholar to create mysteries that are peopled with fictional literary characters, such as Dickens.

Palmer's homepage: http://www.cla.purdue.edu/english/directory/index.cfm?personid=816

CONTACT: (765) 494-3729, wjpalmer@purdue.edu

Parkinson's speech treatment study looking for subjects

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:11:00 EST

A Purdue University researcher is seeking Parkinson's disease patients to participate in a speech treatment study at the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences.

The study, led by associate professor Jessica Huber, will evaluate new treatment for Parkinson's disease related to speech disorders. Participants will be asked to go undergo a 14-20-week treatment plan. Some testing requires travel to Purdue, but other tests can be completed in the home. Subjects will be compensated based on participation.

Purdue Theatre to present 'The Ministry of Funny Noises'

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 15:25:00 EST

Purdue's Division of Theatre will present a 7:30 p.m. concert Saturday (Dec. 13) featuring The Ministry of Funny Noises in the Carole and Gordon Mallett Theatre in the Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts.

The concert, which is free and open to the public, will highlight Brad Garton, a Purdue alumnus and former member of the punk rock band Dow Jones and the Industrials that became an underground sensation in the area from 1979-81. Gregory Taylor also will be featured.

Subjects needed for two voice studies

Tue, 9 Dec 2008 13:42:00 EST

A Purdue University researcher is seeking individuals with vocal fatigue for two studies at the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences.

Professor Mahalakshmi Sivasankar, who is leading the studies, is looking for adults in general good health with no speaking or hearing disorders, but who are experiencing tiring of voice after speaking.

Purdue Repertory Dance Company to perform Winter Works Concert

Wed, 3 Dec 2008 11:06:00 EST

The Purdue Repertory Dance Company will present its Winter Works 2008 Dance Concert on Dec. 12 and 13.

The dance company will perform nine new dances created by faculty and student choreographers. The concert is at the Nancy T. Hansen Theatre in Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts.

Prof: Think twice before giving kittens, puppies this holiday

Wed, 3 Dec 2008 10:46:00 EST

Giving a cat or dog as a holiday gift requires the giver to do his or her homework to ensure the pet is a welcome and affordable addition to the family, says a Purdue University ethics expert.

"A child may ask for a puppy or a kitten, or it may sound like the perfect gift for a girlfriend, but there is a tremendous amount of thought and planning that needs to take place before adopting a pet," says Mark Bernstein, a philosophy professor and the Joyce and Edward E. Brewer Chair in Applied Ethics. "Another consideration, especially this year, is the cost associated with a pet."

Liberal Arts students help community preserve pieces of its past

Tue, 2 Dec 2008 14:13:00 EST

A new exhibit at the West Lafayette Public Library will showcase 11 graduate student projects that highlight local history.

The "Preserving Memories, Making History" exhibit runs Dec. 13 through Jan. 9 at the library, 208 W. Columbia St.

Prof: Give infants, toddlers the gift of language this holiday season

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 08:36:00 EST

The holidays offer many opportunities to share the gift of language with infants and toddlers, says a Purdue University language development expert.

"Holiday decorating and family stories lend themselves to conversations that provide rich context to a child's developing language skills," says George Hollich, an associate professor of psychological sciences. "Most parents talk business with their children, with instructions like, 'Put on your coat' or 'Eat your peas,' but parents who keep a constant running commentary - 'Look at the tree with lights' or 'What color is that present?' - tend to have children with larger vocabularies."

Free screenings at Purdue to test hearing, speech and language

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 08:31:00 EST

Purdue University's M.D. Steer Audiology and Speech-Language clinics are offering free screenings on Wednesday (Dec. 3).

The screenings are 9-11:30 a.m. in Heavilon Hall, Room B11, and are free and open to individuals 18 and older. Appointments are recommended and can be made in advance by calling (765) 494-4229. Screenings for walk-ins will be based on availability.

Open forums scheduled for Graduate School dean candidates

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 09:24:00 EST

The search committee for the dean of Purdue University's Graduate School has invited three internal candidates to participate in campus interviews in December.

The candidates are:

Prof: Lingering JFK conspiracies tarnish history

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:10:00 EST

Historians should use the 45th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy's assassination as a time to focus on the historical event, while debunking still popular conspiracy theories, says a Purdue University historian.

"Historians have pretty much ignored the assassination as a historical event, and they need to weigh in against the excesses of conspiracy theory as false history," says Michael G. Smith, an associate professor of history who will teach a spring semester course on the Kennedy assassination. "We need to begin to respect the dead rather than distort their memory.

Dickens expert: 'A Christmas Carol' highlights 'Hard Times' of 2008

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:20:00 EST

Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" may become an even more relevant tale as people cope with what is expected to be an economically bleak 2008 holiday season, says a Purdue University Dickens expert.

"Most people think of 'A Christmas Carol' as a sentimental story of spiritual rebirth or a ghost story to illustrate a moral purpose of taking care of fellow human beings," says William J. Palmer, a professor of English. "When Dickens wrote 'A Christmas Carol,' he really wrote it as a harsh indictment of England's Victorian society's treatment of the poor.

Prof: 'Twilight' film may really bring vampires to life for some

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:26:00 EST

The upcoming "Twilight" film may not only entertain moviegoers, but it also has the potential to encourage people to really believe in vampires, says a Purdue University mass media expert.

"Research on paranormal beliefs shows that when a fictional story is successfully presented in a realistic way, it can move people to believe or at least move them away from disbelief and toward more uncertainty about the supernatural," says Glenn Sparks, a professor of communication.

Prof: Volunteering beats holiday blues, may lift spirits

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 14:01:00 EST

Volunteering to do good this holiday season also may be good for you, says a Purdue University sociologist.

"There is certainly a social benefit for volunteers, especially for older adults, because it engages them with others," says Kenneth Ferraro, a professor of sociology who studies volunteering and health. "Plus, it helps people of all ages with their outlook. When you help others, the problems you have may not seem as difficult or insurmountable. It changes your perspective.

Prof: Volunteering beats holiday blues, may lift spirits

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 13:54:00 EST

Volunteering to do good this holiday season also may be good for you, says a Purdue University sociologist.

Purdue Theatre to stage Chekhov's 'The Seagull'

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 11:22:00 EST

Purdue's Division of Theatre will present Anton Chekhov's "The Seagull" at the Nancy T. Hansen Theatre in Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts, 552 W. Wood St.

The play is part of the Marquee Series, and performances are at 7:30 p.m. Friday (Nov. 14) and Saturday (Nov. 15), and Nov. 19-22. A 3 p.m. matinee will be offered on Nov. 23.