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(03/04/07 11:00pm)
As we have come to the end of the series of the undergraduate colleges we will focus on the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Disciplines in this college focus more on the study of human beings or other social concepts in contemporary society. Within the college there are different departments which specialize in various subjects and offer major programs designed specifically to ensure success. Students that are in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences have a huge umbrella of major options that prepare Kean students for the future. As the second largest college by enrollment at Kean, like other colleges that have been featured, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences also has national accreditation from the Council of Social Work Education and National Association of School Psychologists.
The college includes major options such as sociology, philosophy/religion, political science, social work, history, and psychology, which all involve the study of people as a whole. The most popular major is Psychology and having a degree in this area allows the individual to seek careers in counseling, mental health, federal and state prisons, and psychiatric hospitals and many more. Currently, Kean has a Doctorate in Psychology program. Like we have learned in the other chapters, every college at Kean has a reputable and experienced staff of professors which guide their students in their studies.
The Social Work program in the College is offered to students that plan on working for child welfare agencies, adoption agencies, and other centers geared towards family and welfare agencies. Since Social Work is not for everyone, people interested in the study of people, but not interested in working with child and family agencies can seek a B.A in Sociology, which also allows for a teacher's certification option.
People with an interest in the English language, literature or writing have the opportunity to major in English. The major offers a standard option for general English studies, but for those interested in education, they can get a teacher's certificate in the program. Those that are skilled writers can take a different route and do the English-Writing option program, which provides students with professional and creative courses to prepare for careers in different types of writing. Another field that can offer many different paths is Communication, because it can lead to an infinite number of career possibilities.
In the humanities and social sciences you will also find foreign languages, which are becoming increasingly important to know as our society becomes more diverse. The Department of Foreign Language has a program for Spanish and offers several courses in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Hebrew and Portuguese. A new undergraduate program which the College hopes will provide a bridge between it and the new Kean-China campus is a Chinese Language program, which started this past fall.
The importance of a liberal arts education is becoming more useful to college graduates because as Dean Dollarhide states, "What is provided in the liberal arts is the foundation for life. By studying history, philosophy, it gives the foundation to do everything". He also made reference to the Wall Street Journal poll in which many C.E.O.'s (Chief Executive Officers), from the top 500 companies, said if given the chance to go back to college they would have done programs in liberal arts.
There are also Masters Programs also available through the College, but they have future hopes that include a Masters in Sociology.
As our focus on the undergraduate colleges at Kean comes to an end, hopefully you have learned that although each college is different, they all have their accomplishments and honors which have contributed greatly to the excellence of Kean's academic programs, or maybe you learned about all of the honors, accreditations and aspirations of each college that make Kean the University that it is today. As we close this chapter, you can open a new one by being more aware of each and every college here at Kean and all of the opportunities within everyone's reach when they attend Kean University.
(03/04/07 11:00pm)
Dreams are sometimes hard to follow, but as long as they are your own they should lead you to success. Or as one Kean student puts it bluntly, "Living someone else's dream will bite you in the end". This student knows firsthand about not doing what other people think you should and taking your own path in life. He knows about responsibility, is a leader and inspirer in his own right, and is also a self admitted, avid shopper. He is none other than senior Political Science major, Uchenna "Uch" Anonyuo. Uch transferred to Kean in the fall of 2005 from Rutgers University-New Brunswick, because he wanted a university experience that focused more on their students as individuals and had smaller classes, and after learning about our Political Science program opportunities, he packed up and headed to Union. Since being at Kean, he says he enjoys the classes, students, and involvement.
Uch is one of those students that either you know, or that you want to know. He has a warm personality, is easy to talk to, responsible and is always making people laugh, trying to make life fun. He jokes about his money situation, his shopping obsession and about his father taking away his car, but its all in fun.
All jokes aside, Uch has big plans for the future. After he graduates from Kean, he intends on earning his Masters in International Relations or Business Administration and later go on to law school. But for now he is busy being the president of two organizations, the African Students Association (ASA), and the Nigerian Students Association (NSA). When asked how he handles the responsibility he admits that, "Being President is hard work. I put a lot of pressure on myself to make sure [ASA] is successful and that goes for NSA too". However, he is dedicated to making sure events go well, and is grateful for all the love and support he has received. He refers to NSA as a "baby" because the group was brought back to life last spring by Chimaobi Odumuko, former President of Student Organization of Kean, Inc., and he was surprised to win presidency in both NSA and ASA in the spring.
While Uch was born in the United States, both of his parents are from Nigeria. His country of origin is very important to him, and he describes Nigeria as a beautiful country that takes care of their own, as well as others. If being the president of two organizations was not enough; he recently added another activity to his resume when he recently became one of the senior class representatives.
You can also catch him sitting in Sozio Hall, as a Desk Assistant for the Office of Residence Life. He says the job is convenient because he has the chance to catch up on homework. It also allows him more free time for the weekend, because that is when he loves to go to the gym and lift, shop and party. Another project he is tackling this spring is serving as the co-chair of the University Activities Board (UAB) sponsored Spring Fashion Show. Hoping that his experience with coordinating successful fashion shows at Rutgers in the past will help him and his committee, he should be able to pull off a stylish, yet classy show for all of Kean to see.
On a serious note he tries to work on himself with every responsibility he undertakes and he is always trying to improve himself mentally, spiritually, and physically. His advice for younger students about education is no secret, he thinks that everyone should follow their own path. He explains his feelings by relating it to his own experience "Do what you want to do. My parents wanted me to be an engineer, but I'm not good at math and science. I wanted to major in Political Science because that's what I like. I tell my cousins who are about to graduate high school to listen to what's in their heart. Living someone else's dreams will bite you in the end." Though he's that funny guy that likes to make friends laugh and tell funny stories; you can't deny he's trying to do things the right way, with his own interests at heart, its safe to say he is on the path to success.
(02/18/07 11:00pm)
Every time you see a beautiful painting or an impressive web design, you may wonder where that person got their inspiration. Well, like many people, they must have gotten their inspiration from being in an environment which nurtures and helps cultivate their talents and we just so happen to have that type of nurturing environment here in the School of Visual and Performing Arts (SVPA) the fourth undergraduate college in the Cougar's Byte series. Art comes in many forms to include beautiful masterpieces such as paintings and drawings to artwork intricately done by computer design to instruments playing music. Students with an appreciation and interest in the arts can pick from any of the options available in the SVPA, including theater, broadcast, art history, music, and design. With around 5,000 students in the entire college; students in the SVPA have the same general curriculum as students belonging to other colleges, but most of the programs focus more on an intense concentration of certain talents. Some have an ear for music and want to teach others with the same love for music, while others love the performing arts and become Theater majors. Along with a very diverse and talented array of students within the college, there are also very skilled and gifted faculty that guide the students. Many of these classes are held in Vaughn Eames which has the studio art program as well as the photography lab, and it just so happens to be one of the most uniquely decorated academic buildings on campus. It is also conveniently located right across from Wilkins Theater, in which many performances for dance, theater, and concerts take place.
Within the college are opportunities to combine passion with education. Students interested in art history, music, and theater can opt to also get a teacher's certification to teach in the future. The Department of Fine Arts has many options within it to accommodate the career goals of students. It offers a Bachelor's of Arts (B.A.) and also a Bachelor's of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) within the curriculum, which include courses in painting, sculpting, print making, computer graphics, ceramics, drawing and others. Students in Fine Arts can also benefit by knowing that the Fine Arts and Design programs have national accreditation.
The Department of Design also has quite a few options including programs in interior design, visual communications, industrial and graphic design.
As colleges began to offer more and more programs for students in the past few years, a long standing fixture at Kean is the Theater department within the SVPA. Theater majors are not limited to just performing as some may assume. Theater majors can choose between degrees in Theater, Theater Education, Theater Performance and also Theater Design and Technology.
The Media & Film major provides students that want to pursue careers in broadcast or film the opportunity to polish their skills in media specialized classrooms while learning from an experienced and seasoned team of faculty members that teach students about radio, television, and other media outlets. Most of these media and film classes are held in the Center for Academic Success.
The college also has a phenomenal Music department, which is accredited by the National Association of Schools and Music, for people that either want to specialize or teach music. Bachelor degrees are available in Music, but also in Music Education. A well known Kean student that has benefited from the guidance of the music department is singer, Jennifer Vaughn who majored in music.
The Dean of the college, Carole Shaffer-Koros, feels that the courses within the college are important for all students, regardless of major. "The courses are important to the general culture of education, especially classes like Art History and Music Survey".
There are many plans in the works for the college including a new recital hall for the Music Department, which will be on East Campus. Theater majors can soon look forward to an academic building for their classes and performances. The college is also looking forward to its annual Spring Showcase which will take place this April.
Be sure to pick up next week's issue as we zero in on the, College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
(02/18/07 11:00pm)
A.A., A.S., B.A., B.F.A., B.S., M.F.A., M.S., M.A., M.S.N.? What do they all stand for? They look like just letters in the alphabet, right? Well, you may know they all have something to do with education, but have no clue what they all stand for. First, let's start with the basics. Of course students farther into their education will know this information, but younger students may still be a bit confused about what exactly is a "Degree". A degree is what a student obtains from an institution of higher learning after completing a specific program curriculum. A degree can be earned in a number of subjects and differs from school to school, but it is different from a diploma or a certification. So with that said, lets learn the A, B, C's of degrees.An Associate's Degree can be earned by students if they go to a community college for a period of two years and complete a number of credits in your program. Associate's Degrees can be awarded in three categories; A.A. (Associate of Arts to include liberal studies, social sciences, history), A.S. (Associate of Science), A.A.S. (Associate of Applied Science). After students earn their Associate's Degree from a community college, they can transfer to a four year college or university. However, it depends on the college or university requirements as to whether or not they will accept the student's associate degree.
Now all students have heard of a Bachelor's Degree, which is awarded for academic courses taken on an average of four years in the undergraduate level. Every student at Kean, after completing all classes on their major guide sheet, will have a Bachelor's Degree in some area. For example, a B.F.A. means a Bachelor's of Fine Arts, which include programs in the arts. B.S. is short for Bachelor's of Science, which at Kean includes programs such as, Accounting, Marketing, Biology, Earth Science, etc. Generally a B.S. is awarded in areas either involving, health, finances, or a specific practice, while, typically a B.A. can include, but is not limited to History, English, Communication, Political Science, Sociology. At Kean there are many programs which offer B.A.s which are more dedicated to areas which require studies in a liberal arts program. Health related majors can receive a Bachelor's in Nursing or a B.S.N., Bachelor's of Science in Nursing.
Undergraduate degree programs are different from college to college. Some programs that offer a B.S. at one school may offer a B.A. at another, so it really depends on the institution itself.
After earning your Bachelor's Degree you have the option of pursuing your Master's Degree. A Master's Degree is earned after completing a curriculum in a graduate school program. The M.A. is a Master's of Arts, while a M.S. is a Master's of Science, a M.P.A. is a Master's of Public Administration, a M.H.S. is a Master's of Health Science and a M.S.N. is a Master's of Science in Nursing. To get a complete list of possible Master's Degrees, you would have to do some research and find out what graduate schools offer what degrees.
People who are focusing on obtaining the highest degree of education, a doctorate's, should also do their research. People can get their doctorate in a variety of subjects. People that plan to have careers in medical studies become doctors, as well as those who want an expertise in a specific area, such as Psychiatry.
Now that you know your A, B, C's and want to find out about degree options at Kean you can go to www.kean.edu to look up information or search the web to get more information about the options available to you.
(02/11/07 11:00pm)
Roses are red, violets are blue; "I may, or may not like you"? Sad, but true, it can be confusing when you don't know if a guy likes you or not, especially during Valentine's Day. For some ladies this is the issue they have to face as they have to sit and wonder if that guy really likes them or just sees them as "friends". Since Valentine's Day is approaching, this is the perfect time to once and for all clear the air and figure out what is going on. Unfortunately, most people aren't psychics, so it can be hard when you get mixed messages. Well, take some time out and take a look at what some of the fellas here at Kean University had to say about what they do when they really like a girl. Uch Ayononyo, senior Political Science major, says, "After awhile I get to know a girl or find a way to get into conversation. I will say something to make her laugh, I won't initially ask for a number. If I like a girl she usually won't know, but there are times when it's obvious. The average guy will spend more time with a girl if he likes her".
Michael Sova, senior English Writing-Option major, focuses on the "little" things when it comes to showing someone he likes them. No big displays and giant teddy bears for him, "I'm not really the average guy. The little things matter more to me, so I probably show that more often".
Daniel Snyder, junior Marketing major, reveals "When I like a girl, I act funnier than usual. The inner comic in me comes out. It is not intentional, nor is it an attempt to court them. It's almost an unconscious action. I want to make her happy, and I feel that laughter is the best way to do so".
Luis Posada, sophomore English, Pre-Law major, says that for him things were different, "I never acted like anything until I met HER, you just don't know what to do, you just do what feels right".
Lewis Mancine, junior Secondary English Education major, is always "himself" when he is around a girl he likes. "I try not to be fake around them. I hate when guys use lines, they would never talk like that. I grew up with two older sisters and they gave me advice and told me to be real and honest".
James Charneco, sophomore Accounting major, says "Girls that I may like cause me to act in strange ways. Usually, I would want to say something sweet that would put a smile on her face. Once I succeed with that (with my heart beating 1000 pumps per second) I would start to get to know her as an individual, rather than only looks. To me the mind and soul are important qualities in a girl that I like. Showing my interest beyond their physical appearance may show them I am interested in them for who they are, rather than what others may see."
So, as you can see all guys aren't the same and do different things when they really like a girl. Some are shy, some are funny and others are more direct, but most importantly, there is almost always a sign. Guys, don't feel left out, if you want to find out what girls do when they like you, read She Said: When I Get to Know a Guy.
(02/04/07 11:00pm)
Did you meet the Greeks last Wednesday? Did you see Kean's Greeks show up and represent their organizations and letters proudly? Greeks do a lot and still manage to maintain a great reputation at Kean. There are currently 30 recognized Greek organizations, and each has their own colors, philanthropies, mottos, "calls", "chants", and traditions which make them all unique. Some of our organizations are national and can be found throughout the country or world, while others are local and only have tight knit chapters here at Kean University. So, with that said, you went to Meet the Greeks, and met the Greeks, but now what do you do?Being a Greek is more than wearing letters and colors; yes they allow you to easily identify the organization, but it is what those letters and colors actually mean to the brothers or sisters that matters the most. All Greeks have an enormous amount of pride for their organization. You can tell this by how much they wear their letters around campus and how each organization works hard to dedicate time and service to keep a positive and active image. A major part of the positive image is making sure you have a certain G.P.A. to even be a in a Greek organization. Kean's Greek Senate mandates all prospective members have at least a 2.3 cumulative G.P.A. and have completed at least 12 credits, unless you are an E.E.O student, which in that case means you must have at least a 2.5.
As a prospective member of a Greek organization, the first thing you need to think about is what best fits you. What is the most important thing you want to gain from experiencing Greek life? For example, if you a person big on social events and doing activities with other organizations you should find a sorority or fraternity that does a lot of social events. If you aren't big on social events and you are more into doing community service work you need to do your research and find out what organization does the most community service. Try not to fit in with an organization that is not for you, find the one that you feel the most comfortable in.
Another thing you should consider is hanging out with the brothers or a sister of an organization does not mean you are guaranteed a better chance of becoming a member. The membership process differs from organization to organization, so make sure to understand the basic membership process. Another word of advice is when trying to become a member of a Greek organization talk to different members in the organization, not just one person. You will get to know more about your future brothers or sisters and the organization by doing so.
An important factor for some people interested in Greek life is the desire for a future organization to be culturally reflective. To some people, it is really important that their sorority or fraternity have ties to their ethnic background and identity. So there are organizations which are primarily one ethnicity, but there are others which are diverse with people from all different backgrounds or ethnicities. It is all a matter of preference, but no matter what, all Greeks enjoy the same sense of brotherhood and sisterhood.
Another thing to consider is money. Yes, money. It does take money to be involved as a member when you pay dues. However, you are not paying for your friends, you are making sure there are enough finances for your organization to pay for expenses that will occur during the year. Look at how much an organization's dues are because some are higher than others. Some organizations with higher dues have payment plans for their members that are unable to pay it all at once, but if finances are an issue for you, make sure you find out about dues beforehand.
Even if you have an idea in mind what fraternity or sorority you want to join; it's not a bad idea to still go to events for different organizations and see if another one is better for you. In the end, no matter what the letters are, all Greeks share one thing, a sense of unity, honor, and respect within their organization. Good luck.
(02/04/07 11:00pm)
In this week's issue, we will be learning about a new chapter in Kean's colleges when we explore all of the options and programs available in the College of Business and Public Administration. We all know that college is the place to sharpen your business and organizational skills. One way to ensure this happens is to take some basic courses that introduce you to business, finance and management to prepare you for the future. Well besides taking courses, students can choose a major within the College of Business and Public Administration that will enable them to seek jobs in a variety of fields involving business and administration. The total population of graduate and undergraduate students in the college is around 4,000. While some students may already be enrolled in programs within the college, others are probably unaware of what programs are included in the college. The biggest major within the college is Management Science which has approximately 800 students enrolled, while Criminal Justice is the fastest growing program. In today's society more and more people are interested in careers in law enforcement or criminal justice; and for Kean students they can major in Criminal Justice. Majors in Criminal Justice (CJ) will learn about the correctional systems through courses such as Criminal Justice in America, Crime and Delinquency, and Police Role in the Community, to name a few of the many that will prepare CJ majors for their careers.
Another department within the college that has choices for students is Management Science which can lead a student down the path in international management, operational management, and general management. Marketing, Accounting, Economics and Finance are other majors that students can choose from under this option.
The current Dean of the college is Dr. Alfred Ngome Ntoko, who has been the dean since March of 2005 when he came to Kean from Texas .When asked about what fields are expanding at the time, Dean Ntoko replied, "the college sees considerable growth in the fields of finance and criminal justice in the distant future".
Graduate students also have some options to choose from when trying to obtain a Masters Degree. In the past, students have received Masters Degrees in Accounting, Management Information Systems, Nursing and Public Administration. Public Administration is also offered through a five year BA/MPA program that students must apply. By being in this program students will receive both their Bachelors of Arts and Masters in Public Administration in only five years, as they begin to take graduate level courses their senior year. After completing their studies at Kean, those students can look forward to futures in areas such as government, public and non profit sectors which makes this honors program look very impressive, considering the college's Master's of Public Administration Program has national accreditation through the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs Administration (NASPAA).
An other graduate program, which was previously offered as a five year program option offered through the college is Accounting. The graduate courses in Accounting will provide the student with even more professional skills to use in the working world such as Financial Accounting and Reporting, Financial Accounting and Report Concepts.
The key to any successful program is having a great faculty to teach and guide students. Faculty members engage with students to teach them subject matter relevant to their classes as well as work on their own. One such professor is Joseph McGill in the Department of Management Science, who won the competitive Full Bright Scholarship to Greece. Hopeful towards the future of the college, Dean Ntoko says, "We are working towards national accreditation for the business program in the future. Also this year we intend on bringing in at least 10 new faculty members". By continuing to offer business and public administration and also striving to come up with new ways to improve the area, the college will definitely be on the road to providing more and more.
(01/28/07 11:00pm)
Last time you learned about the College of Education and what it offers to the students of Kean University. Now it's time to switch gears. Whether you are drawn to learning about the world of technology, weather patterns, the human body, math, or learning about the earth; the College of Natural and Applied Health Sciences is for you. The College includes the natural sciences, such as Biology and Meteorology & Geology, but also Computer Sciences. We are constantly surrounded by science and technology, but some are willing to pay more attention than others, and for those students fascinated by the wonders of the world they will be seeking careers in these fields. Currently there are 1,540 students enrolled in the college, with Biology being the most popular major. Nursing and Mathematical Sciences are the next two highest. Students interested in biological sciences have can work towards a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Biology, or they can choose the Teacher Certification Option, the Physical Therapy Track, or Occupational Therapy, the latter two both require an additional major. However, the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology is more grounded in research and eventual practice within the field of biology, while the B.S. in Biotechnology is more for students interested in future careers in research and work in laboratories. This option can prepare students for graduate school studies related to medical, dental, podiatric and veterinary practices. Kean also partners up with the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey for some of the programs.
The health field is one that is always expanding as demands increase for health workers. To prepare students for health related careers, the college offers a B.S. in Health Information Management, Medical Technology, and Nursing, as well as joint programs which allow students to complete a Masters Degree. Be aware that all students in the health field must complete some type of clinical experience before they receive their degree and to major in nursing you must already be a Registered Nurse.
The college also includes the earth sciences, such as Meteorology, Geology and Earth System Sciences, which would all earn a student a B.A. As mentioned earlier, those interested in teaching biology, math, or earth science have the chance to choose the Teacher's Certification Option which will prepare them for teaching students. Their curriculum is based on the particular subject they plan to teach, but they will also take education courses. As an added bonus, the Noyce Scholars Program, provides scholarship opportunities for people interested in being teachers of math or science.
Computers have become essential in today's technology based society; and the college has made sure computer technology is incorporated more and more within different majors, such as chemistry, biology, and earth science. The Computer Science major has two different tracks that their students can specialize in, a B.S in Computer Science and a B.S in Computer Science/Information Systems Option.
The College of Natural and Applied Health Sciences has been very active with Student/Faculty Summer Research Program, in which they have won awards for their disciplinary research in math, science, and biology. More so than any other college within the university, the college has many opportunities for students to get hands on experience in research and some students have gone on to become co-authors of different publications. Students are also taught by qualified faculty members, that are experts in their fields and many of which have Ph.D.s in their subject matter.
To create a sense of community many of the students have formed friendships with one another notes, Dr. Xiaobo Yu, Acting Dean. "We have study rooms for students as well as computer labs, where there are different workshops about Excel and how to use PowerPoint that all students are welcome to come to". There are also various groups students can join and Travellearn opportunities for credit. Dean Yu expressed his excitement for the future Science Center, for the college which will benefit both students and faculty. "Urban Ecosystem Status will be the first institute to focus on urban institutes. From different perspectives students can get a sense of ownership in a project to help them academically, but also in their community".
Inspiring both prospective and current students in the field of science and math is something that the College prides itself on. For the past two years they have held the Epsilon Summer Institute where they invite high school students to Kean for a week to learn about science and math. "Even if they do not end up doing something in the College they are still being exposed to science and math", Dean Yu says about the program which reaches out to younger students.
So as you can see the college is setting the foundation for science and is making sure with each step along the way, as science and technology advances so does the College of Natural Applied and Health Sciences at Kean University.
(01/21/07 11:00pm)
There are five undergraduate schools and colleges at Kean University, each dedicated to the development of educational and professional skills for future careers; the College of Education, College of Business and Public Administration, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Natural Applied and Health Sciences, and the School of Visual and Performing Arts. In this week's Cougar's Byte, the College of Education will be the first chapter in this series discussing the five different colleges. You can learn about different colleges as well as maybe a little bit about your own!Did you know that in ten years half of the current teachers in the nation will be retired? Well it's true; in a couple of years there will be a huge demand for more teachers and those interested in teaching will be in the forefront of that demand. Those that are in an academic program dedicated to teaching belong to the College of Education.
Also, did you know that Kean has been named as one of the 50 largest producers of teachers in the nation; that fact should not surprise you since Kean used to be called the Newark State Teachers College. The name "teacher's college" has been abandoned since Kean has branched out in so many other areas of specialization, but it still holds its great reputation for teaching. The College of Education has had accreditation from the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education since 1995; an admirable accomplishment, considering that only one-third of schools that produce teachers earn the certification. Currently, there are about 3,000 students, including both the undergraduate and graduate students, in the College of Education and 89 faculty members. As of 2006, Elementary Education within the college became the largest major at Kean with 860 enrolled students.
Now, when one says the word, "teacher", you may already have a vision in your mind of what that person does, but there are so many options available in the College of Education. A person interested in teaching can choose between Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education (Bilingual Education option), Physical Education, B.A in Recreational Administration, Secondary Education, Speech and Hearing (Education of the Hearing Impaired), Speech-Language Hearing Sciences, or Special Education to teach those with learning disabilities. If you are interested in education, but you are not sure what your specialty should be, seek the advice of someone within the department that you are most interested in learning about.
However, before officially being admitted into the College of Education, students must have a G.P.A of 2.75 or higher and have completed 30 credits at Kean, including one full-time semester, as well as other program requirements. Students in Education are required to take three fields to prepare them for a rewarding career in teaching, and as of Spring 2006, they are required to take the Praxis before continuing to their senior field.
Future teachers should also have some specific traits to pursue a career in teaching. For individuals a fondness for instructing children and young adults, willingness to commit to students of all backgrounds and learning abilities are core.
Under the College of Education, graduate students can receive their Masters Degree in Speech Pathology in Educational Media Specialization, Reading Specialization Early Childhood Education, Educational Administration, Instruction and Curriculum, Bilingual Education, Exercise Science, Counselor Education, and Special Education. Students also have the opportunity to choose a specific concentration. For example, Kean students that are pursuing a B.A in Physical Education/Health can choose between Adult Fitness and Athletic Training, depending on which one appeals to them more. Also, Recreational Administration has three areas such as Therapeutic Recreation, Community Recreation, and Commercial Recreation.
The current Interim Dean for the College of Education, Frank J. Esposito who is satisfied with the continuous progress of the college says, "The Professional Development Schools (PDS) we work with create an environment of a number of students along with staff from Kean as well as veteran teachers from those school districts which set high standards and give the students a better experience". Some of the PDS schools that Kean has a relationship with include Rahway and Perth Amboy and many education majors have had field experiences in these districts. According to Dean Esposito, the formula of the College of Education is the same one that works for all colleges within the university which is the excellent mix of veteran faculty with newer faculty staff members which adds to the educational experience of Kean students.
So now hopefully you know a little bit more about our College of Education, and make sure to be on the lookout for the next part of the series, Chapter 2.
(01/21/07 11:00pm)
In the Fall of 2005, something happened to Kean University that transformed the eating habits of many students on campus - a buffet style dining hall in opened Downs Hall. Before, the dining hall was built; students could go to the Cafeteria, the Cougar's Den or the Starbucks Coffeehouse in the University Center. Students still go to these locations, but now they have another option. Freshmen and sophomores that live on campus should be familiar with Downs Hall because they are required to have a meal plan that allows them a certain amount of meals per week. Downs Hall is provided to students by Gourmet Dining and Kean University and it serves everything from sandwiches, salads, quesadillas, cheeseburgers, ice cream, pasta salad and much more! Downs Hall also has daily specials which serve a different entre each day. The way the meal plan works for freshmen is that they can choose from four options, depending on what best fits their lifestyle. For example, the K-16 option is $1,350 per semester and the student gets 16 meals per week in Downs hall, 175 Cougar Dollars, and 2 guest meals per month ; or there is the K-7, which is the same amount, but gives you 7 meals a week, 500 Cougar Dollars, and 2 guest meals per month. Basically, the more meals you get a week the less Cougar Dollars you have on your plan and vice versa. For those that do not know, Cougar Dollars are included in the meal plan and can be used in the UC cafeteria, CAS Starbucks, ice cream parlor, or Cougar's Den.
Freshmen should also remember that meal plan weeks start from Monday to Sunday and unused meals do not roll over from the previous week or semester. Unfortunately for freshmen, any left over Cougar Dollars on their meal plan will not be reimbursed, so use your Cougar Dollars as much as possible.
Second year students can choose from a plan that is for a lesser amount than ones required for freshmen students. The two plans available for these students are the KB-96 and KB 80 for $945 per semester, which also includes a set number of meals and Cougar Dollars. The difference between the plans for second year students is that unused meals will be converted into Cougar Dollars at the end of the semester. For any unused Cougar Dollars at the end of the spring semester, students will be reimbursed the money back in the form of a check.
Commuters can also benefit from a meal plan. Although commuters live off campus, for those that are on campus often or do not want the hassle of worrying about cash for food, a meal plan is the perfect option. Commuters are welcome to get a Flex Plan(K-Flex) .The K-Flex plan does not grant a number of meals per week in the dining hall, but you can use your card for the amount a meal costs when you visit Downs Hall. The minimum to start your Flex Plan is only 50 dollars and you can add any dollar amount that you want. The Flex Plan can qualify as a mandatory meal plan for freshmen and sophomores. It is easy, convenient and saves on worrying about using cash. All students, faculty, and staff are welcome to get a Flex Plan.
If you are minus a meal card, don't worry, you are still welcome to enjoy the buffet at Downs Hall and eat as much as you can, you just have to pay out of pocket. So hurry down to Downs Hall and dine in style.
(01/21/07 11:00pm)
Students at Kean all share a common identity. Since everyone enrolled at Kean University is a student, in a way we all represent one another. With that said, it is only expected that when one of our own succeeds we feel proud of their accomplishments. One such student that has succeeded recently is graduate student Joanna Sliwa, who is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in one of Kean's newest programs, M.A in Holocaust and Genocide Studies. The Elizabeth, New Jersey native was chosen to partake in the Lipper Internship Program at Lower Manhattan's Museum of Jewish Heritage. She is one of 16 lucky interns in the program that will learn Jewish history, as well as about the Holocaust, to teach to others. During the length of the prestigious internship, Joanna will study exhibitions at the Museum, attend historical lectures on the topics of 20th century Jewish history and even hear personal testimony from guests who are Holocaust survivors. After completing the internship, the interns will be able to share their new knowledge of the Holocaust in classrooms throughout their community by gathering middle and high school students to the Museum where they will bring the Jewish experience into perspective through many lessons. "I am thrilled to have been granted the Lipper Internship at the Museum of Jewish Heritage - A Living Memorial to the Holocaust. Working in a museum setting and in the classroom educating students about the Holocaust and the lessons we should learn from history is very rewarding for me - a graduate student in the Holocaust and Genocide Studies Program at Kean", says Joanna about her feelings towards the wonderful opportunity.
The Museum of Jewish Heritage has a three floor Core Exhibition which serves to educate people about the Jewish experience prior to the Holocaust, as well as after. A few of the current exhibitions at the Museum are: A Blessing to One Another: Pope John II and the Jewish People and From the Heart: The Photojournalism of Ruth Gruber, opening January 16. The Lipper Internship Program is made possible by a generous grant from the Gruss Lipper Foundation.
(01/15/07 11:00pm)
Do you want to "spring" into the new semester by taking advantage of all the fun activities that Kean has to offer? Last fall there was LollaNObooza, Meet the Greeks, Pride Bowl, Campus Awareness, Homecoming weekend, Psyched about Wednesday events and many more activities for students to get involved with. After the Fall semester you may be left wondering what is next? Besides bringing new goals, new classes, new classmates; spring also brings a bunch of new events for you to get into.If you missed "meeting the Greeks" in the fall, you have a chance to meet them again when Kean's sororities and fraternities show up during the Spring Meet the Greeks scheduled for January 31st. You can also anticipate the annual Greek Olympics later in the semester, where sororities and fraternities compete in different activities such as Greek sing, goofy events, and athletic games. Even if you are not in a Greek organization, you can stop by and watch all the Greeks participate in the fun and games.
If you are one that likes to embark on learning experiences from the past, in February, Kean will honor people of African descent in the month long African Heritage celebration. Last year's celebration included forums, with speakers from the Africana Studies department, and events which focused on enriching the culture and discussing the history of the people of the African Diaspora.
A week of festivities will take place in March, after spring break, when Kean presents Unity Week. Unity Week is dedicated to bringing everyone on campus together by sponsoring different programs and events. The Unity Week concert has brought some of the biggest names in the music industry to Wilkins Theater and usually has people waiting in line for hours for tickets. The Universities Activities Board (UAB) also has the annual Fashion show planned where Kean students get the chance to show off their meanest swagger as a model for the night, sporting the latest fashions.
Also be on the lookout for different events and trips sponsored by Student Organization of Kean University, Inc. You can check out programs that may be hosted by different student groups at Kean, as well as workshops and events hosted by members of the Kean Greek life.
Toward the end of the semester, there is the Annual Spring Showcase for the School of Visual and Performing Arts. There, you have the chance to view the creative works of fellow students and also see the up and coming talent that has been cultivated at Kean. And of course at the very end of the semester, all of the seniors can anticipate the long-awaited Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony on May 10.
Now that you know a little bit of what may happen this semester, keep your ears open for some of these events as well as others coming to a campus near you.
(01/15/07 11:00pm)
Twas a week and half before Christmas, when all through Wilkins Theatre not a being was stirring, not even a mouse; as the Premiere Stages production of Humbug took place. Before everyone had the opportunity to spend the holidays with friends and family, a special treat occurred at Kean as the old tale, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, was transformed into the play production. Humbug, which was performed from December 14 to December 17, 2006. Based on the well known tale of the stingy, misanthropic, miser Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, Humbug was the adaptation by John Wooten, the Producing Artistic Director of Premiere Stages at Kean University.During the Saturday night showing of Humbug, many people came in anticipation of the holiday story retold and to witness a story of inspiration, hope and redemption. Members of the Kean community came to support the play while bringing along friends, children, and relatives. There were also visitors from outside of Kean that were a part of the audience to experience the classic tale morphed into a modern day story.
In contrast to the original, the main character of Humbug is a woman, Eleanor Scrooge, who is the stingy and merciless head of a law firm. The first scene begins in her Wall Street office suite on Christmas Eve. Throughout the play, the law office was the background for the play, but each scene brought forth new characters, including the spirits of Christmas past, present and future. Along with the character of Eleanor was her faithful assistant, Bobbie who was the only person that could put up with Eleanor Scrooge's grumpy and miserable attitude.
Following the same plot as the classic, Eleanor Scrooge is unable to see the beauty in the holiday season and be grateful for her life, so she is visited on Christmas Eve by three spirits. The first spirit to grace the stage was the symbolic visitor of the past "Marley", played by Dan Higgins Executive Director of University Relations, taunted and teased a frightened and stunned Eleanor until finally telling her what was to come for the night and advised her to "Listen for a change."
During certain scenes the audience is given a glimpse of Eleanor's past through the sprit of Christmas past and it is understood in part how and why she has become so miserable and bitter, especially towards the Christmas holiday.
The audience received a pleasant and comical surprise in the appearance of the very eccentric character, Tess. As the spirit of Christmas present, Tess, was to show Eleanor how her inconsiderate deeds and careless attitude cause people in her life to resent her. Another well known member of the Kean community, Robert Cole, Vice President of University Relations, contributed to the production in his portrayal as the Angel of Death, who, silently, leads Eleanor to envision the inevitable dismal and bleak future for herself as well as others if she does not overcome her mean spirited ways before it is too late.
Current Kean students, Lacey Jones, junior Theatre major played one of the Christmas carolers; Elizabeth Ramsey, Theatre major, assisted as the Assistant stage manager of the production and recent graduate Laura Jean Merkel, B.A in Theatre, served as the Props Master for Humbug. The performance by the young boy that played Young Phil, the ailing son of Bobbie brought to life the youthful spirit of Christmas and reminded us of one the biggest lessons for everyone to remember, hope. There were moments of the play which portrayed sadness, illness, and regret, but there were also many more moments of comedy which lightened the mood of the entire audience. After her visits from the spirits, Eleanor learned the act of redemption and she emerges with a new attitude dedicated to giving, helping and loving those in her life.
Others that were responsible for the success of this production of Humbug were producer Lindsay Gambini, and Costume Designer, Karen Lee Hart just to name a few. The Kean Department of Theatre Performance has other shows coming up for the Spring semester including Hamlet, And Then They Came For Me: Remembering The World of Anne Frank. For tickets to upcoming shows, more information and listings contact the Wilkins Theatre Box Office at (908) 737-SHOW.
(01/15/07 11:00pm)
On December 9 2006 there was a "party" in Downs Hall, but it was different then most people are probably used to; and it was for a different cause. Kean University's Greek organizations hosted the Somerset Hills Holiday Party to spread some holiday cheer to young boys from the Somerset Hills School in Warren, New Jersey. The school is a residential facility for young boys aged seven to fourteen that suffer from behavioral disabilities. The school has approximately 75 boys; and 65 of them participated in the holiday party, which has been held at Kean for the past nine years.Members from different organizations that came out to lift the spirits of some boys were Psi Sigma Phi (YSF), Zeta Phi Beta ?(ZFB)?, Nu Delta Pi ?(ZFB)?, Rho Theta Tau ?(RQT)?, Sigma Lambda Gamma (SLG)?, Nu Theta Chi ?(NQC) Sigma Lambda Beta ?(SLB)?, Lambda Tau Omega (LTW)?, Lambda Theta Phi ?(LQF)?, Sigma Beta Chi ?(SBC)?, Beta Kappa Psi ?(BKY)?, Delta Phi Epsilon (DFE)?, Lambda Sigma Upsilon ?(LSU)?, Theta Phi Alpha ?(QFA)?, Lambda Chi Rho ?(LCR), Nu Sigma Tau ?(NST)?, Omega Sigma Psi ?(WSY)? and Lambda Theta Alpha ?(LQA)?.
Before the boys arrived, a name familiar to almost everyone at Kean, DJ Nix in the Mix, set up his turntables and played some of everyone's favorite songs as the different organizations sat side by side preparing all of the crafts for the afternoon. The Vice President of Programming for Greek Senate, Krystal Deegan ?(WSY) guided the day's activities as Greeks decorated a holiday tree, placed presents underneath, and decorated the inside of Downs Hall with colorful balloons so that the boys would feel in the spirit as soon as they walked into the door.
Some of the boys had come to the holiday party before and knew what was in store, while the others were just anxious to have some fun. As soon as they walked into the room their eyes lit up as they saw all of the activities that they would be getting into that afternoon. After being welcomed by Andi Guarin ?(YSF)?, President of Greek Senate, everyone proceeded to help the groups of boys do different holiday crafts.
The boys were split into age groups and the Greeks that assisted them with crafts worked with one another to add some cheer to their day. Some of the craft activities that they participated in were Santa hat decorating, and making paper bag reindeer by using various materials like red cotton balls and construction paper as antlers. They also had paper Christmas trees that they could decorate with glitter and crayons and a table where they could use their artistic skills and color in different sheets with holiday images on them. At one table, they could either play with action figures or play card games such as Go Fish. After the games, the kids had time to show off their dancing skills as DJ Nix in the Mix coaxed them to get comfortable and "Willy Bounce", "Scooby Doo", and "Chicken Noodle Soup" in front of the crowd. All of the boys earned applause from the audience for their impressive dance steps, but the winners of the competitions received prizes such as, footballs and a basketballs. All the organizations joined in with the boys, played games, learned their names and had as much fun as the kids did.
Barbie Barone ?(DFE)?, sophomore Occupational Therapy major, said she enjoyed the holiday party, "I didn't know what to expect. It was my first time going and I didn't know what the day would bring. It turned out to be such a rewarding experience. At the end, a boy named Aaron came up to me and said 'Thank you for helping me with my Santa hat! I had so much fun!' It was a really good experience for Greeks to work together to put some smiles on some faces." Barbie also added, "It's amazing what one sorority/ fraternity can do alone and seeing what we could all do together was wonderful!"
After the dance off, everyone ate pizza allowing a chance to wind down after all of the day's activities. Of course, the holiday party could not have ended without a visit from jolly old Saint Nick. The boys lined up and one by one were greeted by "Santa Claus" while each was given a present. Christmas came early as the boys received gifts and the Greeks received the gift of knowing that they made a positive impact on the Somerset boys' holiday experience.
(01/15/07 11:00pm)
Last year, four Kean University students with a vision and a goal in mind - set out to establish an organization on campus that addressed social and political issues at Kean-and formed the NAACP Kean University College Chapter. The five students that worked hard to make it happen were Whitney Nichole Stevens, Yolanda Kershaw, Asia Davis, Phyllis King and the late Jayson Kyeremateng, who sadly passed away on July 11, 2006, leaving a void in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him. The college chapter of the NAACP is an extension of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) made possible during the organization's National Convention. During this, in 1936, convention a resolution was passed to form a Youth and College Division enabling college chapters of the NAACP. The NAACP is the oldest civil rights organization in the nation and is still active in maintaining and protecting the political and civil liberties of African Americans and other underrepresented people in the United States.
Fast forward 70 years to the spring of 2006 when the NAACP Kean Chapter was in its infant stages as an interest group. With overwhelming support from fellow students and faculty at Kean, by fall 2006 it earned non-funded group status. Still hoping to become a funded group in the future they are making their name known around Kean. The people guiding the NAACP's ship to success is their 2006-2007 Executive Board which consists of President Whitney Nichole Stevens, Vice President Phyllis King, Recording Secretary Asia Davis, Corresponding Secretary Cynthia "Ce Ce" Newman, Public Relations Coordinator Andre Banks and Sergeant at Arms Alexandra Choute. Their faculty advisors are Latysha Gaines, Lisia Aikens, Tanica Richards, and Kerrin Lyles.
The purpose of the Youth and College Unit is to inform youth of the problems affecting Africans in the diaspora and other people of color to advance economically, educationally, and socially. However, the NAACP Kean University College Chapter is not just for those of African descent or those of color, it is for everyone interested in being socially aware of what is going on in the community.
When asked how she felt about being a part of the first NAACP chapter at Kean, Ce Ce Newman, said, "It feels good. Whitney saw the need for it on campus. It's like a voice for the African American voice on campus." She also added that "The NAACP is not just for African Americans, while minorities are our focus we stand for humanity and human rights and working on equality. Even if you are not a minority we will stand up for you and that is basic focus of our group". Their focus is on the political aspect of issues with a huge concern for community building. Their workshops have been events that anyone could relate to and attend. In the past they held a financial planning workshop, a Self-Defense workshop, as well as one for the ladies called "A Woman's Worth", where they had a night dedicated to pampering and a visit from a Mary Kay Representative.
During the fall, along with the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Office of Africana Studies, they facilitated a workshop about Hurricane Katrina entitled, "The Truth Behind the Disaster", where survivor, Ida Allen's words brought to life the reality of the tragedy which affected thousands of people. Since they have become a recognized group on campus they have joined the ranks of other active groups by demonstrating consciousness and leadership. For spring break, while the average student may be relaxing or taking a vacation they plan to attend their 1st Annual Hurricane Katrina Relief Trip to New Orleans where they will dedicate time to cleaning up debris and rebuilding houses in areas still severely damaged due to Hurricane Katrina.
The Kean chapter of the NAACP is also proud that they are a part of New Jersey's efforts to double their chapter numbers in the state. Upcoming events in the spring include Jeopardy filled with black history facts and their 1st Annual Image Awards along with other schools that have college chapters of the NAACP including Rutgers-New Brunswick, Princeton University, Drexel University, The College of New Jersey, just to name a few.
(12/03/06 11:00pm)
Recently, Kean officially launched the KU3 television station. The television station is channel 3 for all televisions on campus enabled with cable and is now also available to be seen online. In today's media consumed world, it is becoming more and more important to find new ways to access information and Kean is as always, right on track with the times. KU3 is your 24 hour access to coverage of Kean events, concerts, sports, music videos, and eventually the Kean Soap Opera that is in its developmental stages.Robert Cole, the Vice President for University Relations, was responsible for overseeing the launching of KU3. The channel is all about Kean, and it will feature only shows and concerns related to the University. Those that get tired of the hyped up television shows on broadcast and cable tv can finally watch something a little closer to home, by tuning into KU3. There are more shows and programs that are soon to come, but in the meantime you can go to www.kean.edu/tvschedule.html for the listings of what you can watch. Residents in the residence halls can access channel 3 from their rooms. Also, by going on www.Kean.edu people can access the television station from their computers and watch.
Since the launch of the new channel, some students have been curious about the eventual outcome of the project. Two students eager to see the impact of the channel are Ben Molina and Harry Gambini, both Media and Film majors. One show they are especially interested in seeing is the Kean Soap Opera, which will feature students. Ben, a senior says, "The man that is helping with the soap opera is a professional and the direction he wants to take it in is very good. Maybe the television station will in the future give Kean the spotlight". Harry, a sophomore, continued "it has a lot of potential, especially if more programs are eventually added". A news or variety show is something both young men would love to see produced in the future.
On any given day, by tuning in to KU3 you can view different high profile Kean events such as the 9th Annual Gala, President's Opening Address, as well as seeing fellow student ceremonies such as the undergraduate and graduate commencement. Other programming shown throughout the week includes the School of Visual and Performing Arts Spring Showcase, as well as recordings from sporting events. Stay tuned to see more about Kean right in the comfort of your residence hall or from your computers and also stay tuned for further updates for in the upcoming year.
(11/26/06 11:00pm)
All full time students in good academic standing that meet the following minimum requirements are eligible to be considered for the Student Organization of Kean University, Inc, Memorial Scholarship. Those interested in applying can find the full application listed with requirements on http://www.studentorg-ku.org/. Be sure to read all of the information to ensure that your application is not disqualified. Students that have completed at least 30 credits at Kean and have a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.5 or higher are encouraged to apply. Student Org. is offering 10 scholarships worth $500 each to students that win the scholarships.Students will be reviewed on all forms being properly submitted including the F.E.R.P.A., Transcript release form, two completed reference forms, and an essay or collage assignment as well as an interview. The applications are available now, so if you are interested make sure you gather all your necessary paperwork and submit your application on December 1 by 2:00 p.m. to the University Center Room 321. It is very important to make sure your applications are handed in on time, or else it will not be considered! Any concerns or questions regarding the application please refer to the Student Org. website or call 908-737-5190. Good luck to all students applying!
(11/26/06 11:00pm)
Ever heard friends say the statement, "I'm a broke college student", or ever say it yourself? Although it is often said jokingly, the fact is college students do have financial burdens. Even though Kean University remains the most affordable institution in New Jersey, the truth is that money makes the world go 'round and we all need to work. Some students need money for financial reasons, to pay for living expenses, or to have extra spending money when they go out. No matter what the reason may be, finding a job is essential to most students. Well, many students take the initiative and seek jobs on campus. These students have the right idea, because they know by working on campus it is more convenient, they spend less time traveling and know they are can have a flexible schedule by even working in between classes. There is a wealth of campus jobs available for Kean students; you just have to know how to find them.Another great thing about Kean is its dedication to helping students, especially those that need help financially. Work-study is exactly what it seems to suggest. The work-study program at Kean grants work opportunities to eligible students that demonstrate financial need. They can work a maximum of 20 hours a week and they can receive awards ranging from $1400 to $2000 a year. If you are not sure if you qualify for work-study, you can pick up applications at One Stop or even print one out from www.kean.edu. Most of the academic departments and university-related offices are willing to hire work-study students for assistance.
For students that are not work-study students, there is no need to worry because there are more opportunities out there. The Office of Residence Life has jobs for students. The Office of Residence Life has students working as D.A.s (desk assistants) and C.A.s (community assistants). Working for Residence Life is a good way to fill your pockets and also do a service for the housing community at Kean. To apply, go to The Office of Residence Life located in Whiteman Hall and fill out an application. Also, the University Center is a great place to work. Not only can you make money, but by being in the University Center you are likely to see everyone you know. The application for the bookstore is easily accessed online; just print it out and bring it to the bookstore, which is usually hiring during the rush seasons. Other jobs in the University Center include the information desk, the game room, and the U.C computer lab. Be sure to ask someone at the Information Desk for an application.
Students who would like to help other students academically while getting paid should definitely look into being a tutor. These students should have a thorough understanding of the subject that they would like to tutor, while also being in good academic standing. Another job, which demonstrates leadership and mentorship, is that of an A.I.M. (Academic Instructional Mentor). They assist instructors with teaching Transition to Kean classes and are there to answer students' questions concerning academics. As a former A.I.M., Nicole Denny, senior Speech Language and Hearing Sciences major, said, "It is a very fulfilling job to have an impact on students, especially the newer students." To apply to be a tutor or an A.I.M., pick up an application at the front desk of the Center for Academic Success. A student looking to be a representative of the Kean student body can apply to be a Student Ambassador at the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Also, if you have neat penmanship and would like to help fellow students you can apply at the Office of Disability Services to get a job as a note-taker.
The great thing about working on campus is the flexibility. Supervisors know it is hard when it comes to going to school while holding a job, and are willing to work with whatever schedule is best for you. Another positive is that in addition to earning money, students learn more about the University and get to meet new friends while being in a comfortable environment. Anyone who needs extra money or just wants to gain a different perspective from the Kean experience should go out and job hunt around campus. The jobs are waiting for you!
(11/26/06 11:00pm)
In honor of Veterans' Day, on November 9, members of the Kean University community presented an observance that honored University employee veterans, as well as, student veterans. A warm and sunny November afternoon provided the perfect setting for faculty and students to listen to speakers outside the University Center. The program was opened by words from Stephen Vence, Assistant to the Dean in the College of Business and Public Administration and Director of Veterans Program. Students and faculty took the time to join and listen to the courageous words spoken from veterans and others during the program. Staff from the Child Care Center came with the little children, who seemed thoroughly awed by all the men and women in uniform.
Veterans Day is officially on November 11th, and it was celebrated to mark the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice to end World War I. In 1926 a resolution was passed for all Americans to recognize the day and since 1938 it has been a legal holiday. It has now formed into a federal and state holiday that honors and remembers the commitment of those living that have served any time in the military.After words from Stephen Vence, Philip Connelly the Vice President of Administration and Finance, came to the podium and offered more words about the dedication of veterans. We could also see that veterans come in many different shapes, races, sizes, and genders; and the role of women was emphasized by Colonel Madelfia Abb, Battalion Commander and professor of Military Science at Seton Hall University throughout her speech. She first recognized Kean as one of the 21 universities that offer the ROTC program, through its affiliation with Seton Hall, and honored military women by mentioning, that "valiant women arms stand guard for countless hours to protect the rights of our country."
Amanda Padilla, Assistant Treasurer of Student Organization of Kean University, Inc., and Manuel Donelson, President of the Council for Part Time Students, also spoke during the program. Amanda read a touching poem that was a tribute to veterans titled, "Sad, But True", listing the rights that we have due to the hard work of veterans. Manuel Donelson, also a Veteran of Desert Storm, offered his intriguing words about veterans when he spoke. He urged everyone not to confuse Veterans Day with Memorial Day and that he wanted to say thank you to all the men and women that served. "Freedom is never free, veterans pay a price" he added before giving an inspirational quote from Maya Angelou.
Inspiring hope for the success of those serving the country and making it a safer place for all American citizens, the Catholic Chaplin of Kean, Father Alvin Kimel led a brief moment of prayer. Shortly after prayer, Bob Maslo, an Army Veteran, who recently retired from Kean University after 37 years of service, was honored to present another veteran, Joe Fioretti that has contributed to Kean by making sure that the veterans' monument has been maintained throughout the years.
The end of the program was celebrated by the singing of the patriotic song, "God Bless America", led by Della Robinson. Veterans Day marked another successful dedication to honor those at Kean, as well as around the nation, that have and are securing our futures with their courageous efforts.
(11/05/06 11:00pm)
Recently, nine Kean University undergraduate students along with three Kean alumni had the opportunity to participate in the thirty-first National Weather Association (NWA) Conference in Cleveland, Ohio. From the Department of Geology and Meteorology the students in attendence were Michael Favetta, Ryan Kelly, Steven Koenigstein, Justin Lewis, Ryan Matthews, Melissa Rod, Steve Sosna, Michael Szczepanski, and Braden Ward, along with three alumni Aaron Burton, Belkys Melendez, and Michele Powers.During the conference, students presented their research and professional projects along with Dr. Paul J. Croft and Dr. Shing Yoh. Dr. Croft , has been past President of NWA, is a member of the Strategic Planning and Education Committees and is the current Director for the Center of Earth Science and Education. He also serves on the Kean University Academic Standards Committee, while Dr. Shing Yoh is from the Department of Geology and Meteorology.
The attendees collaborated mostly with one another, but Dr. Croft and Dr. Shing Yoh would offer assistance if necessary. Before attending the conference students were supported in their research by Kean University's Office of Research and Sponsored Programs. Justin Lewis, senior and Michael Szczepanski were involved last year in completing associated Independent Study projects. Their project, that they researched and presented, involved understanding the impact of early thunder storms on later development and making the connection between lightning and overall storm activity.
Along with Dr. Shing Yoh, Braden Ward assisted in developing research on numerical modeling simulations and assessments. Besides its usefulness for real time applications and use, it is also a good resource for students to use in their classes and to operational and research professionals in the region.
Ryan Matthews and Melissa Rod were a part of two research projects. Impressed with the feedback Kean received by the many presentations Melissa stated that, "Many comments were made about how well Kean University represented themselves and I believe that we should continue to do so by venturing into more experiences such as this conference."
Kean alumni were glad to be able to come back and work with current Kean students and faculty and showcase their research at the national conference. Belkys Melendez, Class of '05 and past Vice President for the Kean University Student Chapter of AMS/NWA came to present an in depth look at air quality patterns in the state during the spring and early summer in an effort to identify poor conditions. Current student, Michael Favetta, meteorology major and current weather intern at News 12 New Jersey was impressed by the opportunity that Kean had given him. "Kean University gives you a base map for you to build off of. You have the tools and resources to build what you want."
The students, alumni, and faculty that attended represented Kean well to the rest of the nation and enjoyed displaying their hard work and research at the conference. If interested in seeing the work done, it is on display in the Department of Geology and Meteorology in the Science Building. Some can also be found on online by going to http://hurri.kean.edu.
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