Wells College in the national news: president Lisa Marsh Ryerson deemed "exuberant" for her plan to help revitalize Aurora

The creation of the Aurora Foundation, a limited liability company intended to "bolster economic activity in the heart of the village," was the highlight of a story today by New York Times reporter Dan Barry. The partnership between Wells College and the Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation receives extensive coverage and village residents have their say. To read more, click here:

http://www.nytimes.com/2001/05/18/nyregion/18AURO.html

To read more about president Lisa Marsh Ryerson and her role in national issues which impact liberal arts education, see the article

Wells College president elected to the board of directors of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities

For more information, please contact the Office of Communications at 315.364.3260.

May 18, 2001

Grammy award nominee Shenandoah to perform, speak at Wells College's 133rd commencement

Hailed by the Associated Press as “the most critically acclaimed Native American singer of her time," Joanne Shenandoah, who has performed at both of President Clinton's inaugurations, is a powerful voice for human rights. A powerful advocate for peace, Shenandoah, who draws on ancient Iroquois songs, is on the board of the Indian Law Resource Center.

Her album, "Peacemaker's Journey," was nominated for a Grammy Award this year. A unique feature of Commencement this year includes a concert by Shenandoah immediately following a reception for seniors and their families under the Sycamore Tree on Friday, May 25. Shenandoah will regale the Wells community with a concert in Phipps Auditorium on Friday, May 25 from 8:00-9:00 p.m. The next day, Saturday, May 26, the Commencement Ceremony will begin at 10:00 a.m. on the front steps of Macmillan Hall. Shenandoah will deliver the 133rd Commencement Address for Wells. The rain location is Phipps Auditorium.

Joanne is a Wolf Clan member of the Iroquois Confederacy Oneida Nation and daughter of the revered clanmother Maisie Shenandoah.

To learn more about Joanne Shenandoah, her life and music please go to  http://www.joanneshenandoah.com/bio.htm.

To read news coverage about Joanne Shenandoah's commencement speech at Wells please go to
http://www.syracuse.com/news/syrnewspapers/index.ssf?/newsstories/cayuga/20010527_cfwells.html.

If you would like to read the 133rd Commencement Address delivered by Joanne Shenandoah, please go to
http://www.wells.edu/whatsnew/wnspch31.htm

Photo of Joanne Shenandoah by Harry DiOrio, Syracuse Newspapers.

May 18, 2001

Wells College president elected to the board of directors of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities

Lisa Marsh Ryerson, president of Wells College in Aurora, N.Y., has been elected to the Board of Directors of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU). She assumed her new responsibilities on January 31 at the association's 25th Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C.

NAICU serves as the unified national voice of independent higher education, and represents nearly 1,000 private nonprofit colleges and universities on policy issues with the federal government. The NAICU Board sets the association's legislative, research, and communications agendas, and establishes guidelines for accomplishing its priorities.

"The 2000 election brings a host of new opportunities and challenges in Washington, D.C., on the student aid, tax, and regulatory issues that affect every independent college and university," said NAICU president David L. Warren. "I'm delighted that Lisa Marsh Ryerson has been elected by her peers to join the NAICU Board. She will bring leadership experience and a keen understanding of the issues that will face us."

Ryerson was named president of Wells College in 1995. Prior to her appointment, she served as the college's executive vice president and dean of students.

Ryerson is actively involved in local community activities. In 1998, she joined the Metropolitan Development Association of Syracuse and New York, where she helped develop a New York State student retention project to keep local college graduates in central New York.

She is vice president of the Independent College Fund of New York, and an executive committee member of the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities in New York. Ryerson is also vice chair of the Women's College Coalition and chair of the Public Leadership Education Network.

Ryerson earned her bachelor's degree from Wells College, and a master's degree from the State University of New York at Cortland.

NAICU member presidents from Region II (Del., D.C., Md., N.J., N.Y.) elected Ryerson to represent them on the association's 44-member board for a three-year term.

For more information, please contact Tony Pals at (202) 785-8866 or the Office of Communications at (315) 364-3260.

May 18, 2001

Kyrgyz pianist Daniyar Mukhtarov makes his United States debut at Wells College in exclusive engagement

Arts and Performance department announces first-ever music and dance exchange between the two countries

Daniyar Mukhtarov, renowned pianist from the central Asian country of Kyrgyzstan,will perform a recital at Wells College MONDAY, MAY 7 at 8:00 PM in Barler Recital Hall. The concert will feature the US premiere of the "Suite for Piano" by contemporary Kyrgyz composer, Murat Begaliev. Piano works by Tschaikovsky, Rachmaninov, Chopin, Scarlatti and Mozart complete the program. The concert is free and open to the public. Mr. Mukhtarov's visit is sponsored by the Arts and Performance Department at Wells College.

Daniyar Mukhtarov comes from a family of musicians. His father, the late Khusein Mukhtarov, was a Soviet National Artist who sang with the Bolshoi and Kirov Theatre. His mother , dramatic soprano Esen Moldokulova, is currently the director of the Kyrgyz State opera. Daniyar Mukhtarov has performed as a pianist and conductor all over the world, Russia, Kazahkstan, Germany, Austria, Italy, Spain, France, Poland and others. A graduate of the Moscow State Conservatory, he was first prize winner of the Soviet National Competition of USSR Composers and has won recognition in Kyrgyz National Musical Competition and The International Casagrande Piano Competition in Terni, Italy. He has performed extensively on State Television and Radio, making his first live television appearance at ten years of age.

Kyrgyzstan, a former Soviet Republic, declared its independence in 1991. It is situated between Kazahkstan, China, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

During his visit, Mr. Mukhtarov will present master classes and recitals at Ithaca College and Wells College. He will also collaborate with Wells College Associate Professor of Dance Jeanne Goddard and her partner, baritone Steven Stull in a concert at the CRS Barn Studio later this month. Goddard and Stull will travel to Kyrgyzstan in late May, to present concerts of American music and American modern dance. Those performances will be broadcast on Kyrgyz State Television.

For more information about this exciting international exchange, please contact either Steven Stull, CRS Barn Studio at 607.257.2043 or log on at www.lightlink.com/crsbarn or phone the Office of Communications at 315.364.3260.

April, 2001

"The Susan Garretson Swartzburg ’60 Memorial Book Arts Lecture presents "One Woman’s Work" a lecture by the internationally renowned typographic designer Carol J. Blinn, May 2-3, 2001, on the Wells College Campus.

Proprietor of the Warwick Press in Easthampton, Massachusetts, since 1973, Carol J. Blinn will discuss her life’s work as a typographic designer, book artist, commercial letterpress printer, paper decorator, hand bookbinder, and private press publisher during an exclusive engagement at Wells College on May 2, 2001 at 8:00 p.m. in Cleveland Hall Auditorium. This lecture, "One Woman’s Work," is part of The Susan Garretson Swartzburg ’60 Memorial Book Arts Lecture. A reception in Morgan Hall will follow Ms. Blinn’s talk. Both events are free and open to the public.

On the following day, May 3, the Book Arts Center will host a workshop entitled, "How to Stencil a Duck & Other Good Things." The workshop, led by Ms. Blinn, will be held from 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m., and it will be held at the Wells College Book Arts Center, Morgan Hall in Aurora, NY. The workshop is limited to 8 participants. Advance registration and payment are required. The cost is $50 for all members of the general public and $30 for Wells students.

Ms. Blinn studied art at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts, at the Worcester Art Museum School, and at the Hartford Art School, in Connecticut. It was during her time at Hartford, that she developed an intense interest in sculpture, particularly mould making. Ms. Blinn went on to work in a small print shop, where she gained valuable experience as an offset camera operator, printer, and designer. During this time, she also collected equipment, held multiple jobs, and faced exhaustion. Blinn went on to establish the highly regarded Warwick Press.

"When I think of my work, it is with confusion, hope, frustration, pleasure and joy. My life is filled with all the ‘stuff,’ as I imagine are your lives. What can set me apart is my ability to show myself in a public way by being in print." (Excerpt from a Lecture by Ms. Blinn, delivered to the Honorable Company of Printers, Annual Wayzgooze, Yale University). Ms. Blinn’s talk at Wells will focus on the distinction between life and work, the fears and joys of self-employment, and the distinctions between public and private matters.

Mr. Terrence Chouinard, Victor Hammer Fellow has coordinated Ms. Blinn’s two-day visit to Wells College. The Victor Hammer tradition of high standards in printing and design has made a poignant and profound impact on the Wells community. The holiday card mailed by Wells College President Lisa Marsh Ryerson, featuring the work of J.J. Lankes and Mildred Walker Schemm, was designed at the Book Arts Center by Mr. Chouinard, Wells’ second Victor Hammer Fellow.

For more information on the Susan Garretson Swartzburg ’60 Book Arts Series, please contact Terrence Chouinard, Victor Hammer Fellow, at 315-364-3420 or the Office of Communications at 315-364-3260.

April, 2001

Wells College announces multicultural awareness week

In recognition of the importance of celebrating, honoring, and sharing traditions across cultures, beliefs, and practices, the student group P.O.W.E.R. (Praising Our Work, Ethnicity, and Race) at Wells College has teamed with area residents, campus officials, and other Wells student organizations to present its annual Multicultural Awareness Week. Below, please find a roster of exciting activities.

Sunday, April 8, 2001, 11:00 a.m-1: 00 p.m. Coinciding with Fathers' Weekend, the public and campus community is invited to join members of P.O.W.E.R. for a Unity March from Main Chapel to the Aurora Fire Hall. The march will begin at 11:00 a.m. The overall goal of this event is to increase interaction between Wells's students and the Aurora community.

Sunday, April 8 at 5:30 p.m. in Faculty Parlors, Hillel will both sponsor and prepare a traditional Passover Seder diner. After dinner, please share in a discussion of religious freedom. Passover is the Jewish Holiday that celebrates Moses' leadership in freeing the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt. The Wells Hillel Passover dinner includes traditional Passover foods and vegetarian matzo ball soup, salad and desserts. This event is open to the Wells community and members of the public. Food is limited.

Monday, April 9 at 8 p.m. in the Sommer Center, "Pow-Wow Highway," will be shown. This film explores the lives of Native Americas living on a Montana Cheyenne Reservation. Through a series of unexpected events, the characters face the challenges of being Cheyenne in modern-day America. This event is free and open to the public.

Tuesday, April 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Sommer Center. Join us for "Yaraana," which is urdu for "friendship." Come enjoy food, dancing and music from the Indian Subcontinent. This event is free and open to the Wells community and to area residents.

Wednesday, April 11, 12 noon-1:30 p.m. "Getting to Know You." Please join us for an informal luncheon which focuses on identity. Let's get to know one another better. This event is open to the Wells community.

Thursday, April 12, 4:30 p.m., Art Exhibit Room, Macmillan Hall, Please join us for a lively talk by Dr. Assata Zerai, Syracuse University. Dr. Zerai will lecture on struggle and progress for African American women in a talk titled, "Making a Way Outta No Way."

Thursday, April 12, 8 p.m., Barler Recital Hall, "Piano Rags and Cuban Danzas." Please come hear renowned pianist and composer Brian Dykstra, a graduate of the Julliard and Eastman Schools of Music, and a professor of music at the College of Wooster in Ohio. Preceding the performance, a sampling of foods from Latin American countries will be served. Voluntary donations for the food will go to help the victims of the recent earthquakes in El Salvador. Dykstra's performance is sponsored by the Wells College Music Department and the food is sponsored by the Latin American students, students of Spanish, and the Spanish Club. This event occurs in conjunction with Multicultural Awareness Week. For more information, please call 315-364-3330.

Friday, April 13, 3:30-5:30, Sommer Center. Please come and enjoy crafts from all different cultures, including: mehindi (henna), hair braiding, food sampling, origami, decorative paper designs, dancing and much more. This event is open to area residents, the public, and the Wells campus community.

Saturday, April 14, 7:00 p.m. Sommer Center. Fashion Show Extravaganza. Come experience the diversity of colorful fashions from all over the world, plus music and performances galore. This event features an International After-Party at 9:00 p.m. in the Boathouse on Cayuga Lake, Wells College. Music from all over the world will be featured, including, reggae, latin, hip-hop, mbalax, arab, hindi, bhangra, zouk/kompa, and more. The after-party event is open to the public and costs two dollars ($2).

For more information, please contact Jamila Simon (jsimon@wells.edu), Saira Raza (sraza@wells.edu), or the Office of Communications (315) 364-3260).

Wells College mourns loss of Emerita Professor Anne Julienne Russ

The Wells College community suffered an irreplaceable loss on Monday, March 5, with the passing of Anne J. Russ, who succumbed after a battle with cancer. At the February meeting of the Wells College Board of Trustees, Anne was named Professor of Sociology and Education Emerita.

The resolution states, "It is impossible to imagine a Wells College without her firm voice and shoot-from-the-hip perspective which always reveals a keen awareness of the political as personal as well as the personal as political." These words reflect the sentiments of many that mourn her passage.

Prior to joining the Wells community, Anne was a classroom teacher in NewYork, Hawaii, Georgia, and Texas. She gained higher education teaching experience at Southern Methodist University, Dallas County Community College, Tompkins Cortland Community College, and Cornell University. This work enabled her to become the highly capable director of the college's innovative secondary education program, which has grown in popularity among students and made great advancements since she assumed leadership in 1982.

Anne earned her baccalaureate degree from the State University of New York College at Cortland, her master's degree from Southern Methodist University, and her doctorate from Cornell University. During her early academic career, she conducted extensive and important research on the role of women in higher education. Her doctoral dissertation is a study of women's leadership focusing on Wells entitled Higher Education for Women: Intent, Reality, and Outcomes, Wells College, 1868-1913.

She began her distinguished tenure at Wells in 1979 as director of career planning and joined the college's sociology department in 1981 as an instructor. Among many other honors, she was a National Endowment for the Humanities Preceptor in Women's Studies. She advanced quickly and was named assistant professor of sociology and education in 1984, associate professor in 1989, and full professor in 1995. Her involvement has shaped the curriculum, ranging from her efforts that led to the establishment of the women's studies major in 1993 to her more recent work with Wells 101: the college's all- important introductory course for new students.

As her academic career progressed, her research interests turned increasingly toward an exploration of how ethnicity, class, and gender influence organizations and institutions. As a result, she became an outspoken advocate for social justice.

This was reflected in her teaching, which included classes on the sociology of education, Latin America, and women's studies. Anne's passion changed the thinking and lives of her students and colleagues alike. Through numerous publications, lectures (in the United States and abroad), and media appearances, she took her message to a global audience.

Anne's rapport with students was recognized in 1993 when she was named recipient of the college's first Excellence in Academic Advising Award. According to the citation, "Students see her as the model of an accessible faculty member, one who participates widely in many areas of student activity and concern. Her voice has been influential in matters of diversity and student empowerment. As one student wrote, 'Professor Russ has not only been my academic advisor but my life advisor.'"

Anne found energy, strength and support in the Wells community - Aurora became her true home. In a message to prospective students, she described the synergy: "Living and working in the Wells community has enabled me to integrate all parts of myself - as a woman, scholar, and teacher. What I do, what I think, what I feel are all part of a seamless whole. I want my students to find that same unity during their time here and carry it into the rest of their lives."

Anne's friends and colleagues are currently working to establish a prize named in her honor to be awarded annually to a member of the student body, faculty, staff, or administration at the spring honors convocation. The description reads: "The Anne J. Russ Prize for Social Responsibility is awarded annually to that member of the Wells College community who in the course of the year has made the most significant social, political, or ethical contribution, especially involving matters of human diversity and inclusiveness."

President Lisa Marsh Ryerson said, "This prize is appropriate to help us remember Anne because it celebrates active involvement. It demonstrates that our community will forever value her contributions and her commitment to social responsibility." Checks written to Wells College with a memo "Anne Russ Fund" should be sent to Amy Robinson, Director of Development, Pettibone House, Wells College, Aurora, New York 13026.

It was Anne's wish that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to one of the following: Hospicare Residence of Tompkins County, 172 E. King Road, Ithaca, NY 14850; Hospice of the Finger Lakes, 1130 Corporate Drive, Auburn, NY 13021; or The Anne Russ Social Responsibility Prize, Wells College, Aurora, NY 13026.

Faculty, staff and students at Wells will convene on Thursday, March 8 at 2:45 p.m. for a special tea in the Art Exhibit Room to honor her memory.

A service in celebration of Anne's life will also be held on Friday, March 30 at 11:00 a.m. in Phipps Auditorium, Macmillan Hall on the Wells College campus. For more information, please phone (315) 364-3260.

March 7, 2001

Wells College announces plans to revitalize economic activity in the heart of village of Aurora

This week, Wells College announced a comprehensive plan for revitalizing and renovating the Aurora Inn and other commercial properties in the heart of the Village of Aurora. While final details are still under negotiation, the Board of Trustees unanimously endorsed a plan that allows the College to enter into a not-for-profit partnership with the Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation. This partnership enables the two to combine efforts to create a separate foundation, tentatively titled the Aurora Foundation, which will be a not-for-profit real estate title holding entity.

President Lisa Marsh Ryerson and Pleasant Thiele Rowland, a Class of 1962 Wells graduate, met with village officials yesterday to discuss the plan which aims to bolster economic activity in the heart of the village. President Ryerson outlined the College’s goals and invited input on next steps toward the shared vision for the success of the village.

“This plan eliminates both fiscal liability and responsibility for the day-to-day management of commercial enterprises and expenditures related to renovation and refurbishment,” said President Ryerson. “It allows us to free up much-needed college resources and fortify investments in academic program planning, while continuing to benefit from rental income from the properties,” Ryerson stated.

“My love for Aurora began years ago and continues to this day,” said Pleasant T. Rowland. “I am delighted to help Aurora become one of the most vital, historic villages and college homes in America.” Rowland has a deep interest and extensive involvement in historic renovation on the Wells College campus and other projects throughout the country. Rowland also has a demonstrated track record in entrepreneurial ventures as evidenced by the success of American Girl, the company she founded to teach young girls about history.

The Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation is noted for its extraordinary generosity to preservation, cultural, and civic endeavors, and will provide the funding for this project to preserve the character of the village.
 

Aurora Inn history

The Aurora House, as it was called during its completion in 1833, was refurbished in time for an 1881 commencement. Extensively remodeled in 1958 with funds from the Millikin family, (a dining room, terrace, and bar was added), The Aurora Inn was gifted to the College by trustee R.L. Zabriskie in 1943 and opened to the public that same year. During that year, the Inn was identified as a separate corporation and more alterations and renovations followed. In 1976, Sissy Farenthold assumed the presidency and faced a sizable deficit. She chose to close the Aurora Inn for a while, as the College was losing money on it. The Inn did not reopen until 1979.

Photo of the Aurora Inn and downtown Aurora in the early 20th century. Please click on photo for a larger version.
 

Aurora foundation discussion off to a strong start

In 1979, management was turned over the William Eberhardt, who operated several business establishments in the Finger Lakes. In 1991, then-President Plane signed a long-term agreement with an outside manager and the Inn opened again in 1992. Unable to fulfill the terms of that agreement and faced with fiscal challenges, management of the Inn reverted back to the College in 1995. Last fall, the Inn closed its doors again, for many of the same fiscal reasons President Farenthold faced.

Throughout its history, the Inn has been a gathering place for students, residents and visitors. Although the dining room, with a breathtaking view of Cayuga Lake, has been one of the area’s most popular dining venues, the Inn is currently in need of extensive renovations and repairs. President Lisa Marsh Ryerson’s decision to renovate and reopen the Inn through the Aurora Foundation will be of mutual benefit to the College, the Village of Aurora, and its visitors. The Aurora Inn is scheduled to re-open in spring 2002.

For more information, contact Ann S. Rollo, Vice President of External Relations at 315.364.3416.

February 15, 2001

Wells College students go hungry as part of nationwide anti-hunger campaign for Oxfam America

On the Thursday before Thanksgiving Wells students joined the annual Fast for a World Harvest Campaign

On Thursday, November 16th, one week before Thanksgiving, students at Wells College skipped a meal or went without eating for the whole day, as part of a nationwide campaign to fight world hunger. The event was sponsored by Wells College Community Service.

Wells students, faculty, and administration joined Oxfam America's annual Fast for a World Harvest campaign and gave up one or more meals in Wells College's dining hall. The cost of the meals went to Oxfam America's hunger-and poverty-relief programs in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Americas, including the United States. During lunch hours, members of the Wells College Fast group showed videos and distributed literature about world hunger. The dining hall staff helped by facilitating a Hunger Banquet. Participants broke into three groups representing the world's elite, middle class, and poor. Each group received treatment according to their class, raising awareness of world hunger.

The event was one of thousands of events which took place across the country. In total, some one million people from churches, schools, colleges, and community groups took part in Oxfam America's Fast for a World Harvest campaign, the central event of which is a day of fasting and poverty-awareness activities on the Thursday before Thanksgiving, November 16th. All monies raised from events and activities went to Oxfam America, a Boston-based international development agency that supports local groups working o increase their food production and economic self-reliance.

"At any given moment, there are over 790 million people in the world suffering from hunger, and every day 24,000 people die of preventable hunger-related illnesses," says Saira Raza '02, a Wells junior who helped organize the Fast event. "By participating in Oxfam America's Fast campaign, we're doing our part to try to change these grim realities. It's good to know that we can make effective changes in our community and in the world."

For more information, please contact Saira Raza '02 at (315) 364-2890 or the Office of Communications at (315) 364-3260.

November, 2000

Wells women stake out roles in the sciences by remembering past, embracing future

New home for the sciences scheduled, Zabriskie Hall targeted for renovation as campus continues long, unique tradition of preparing women as scientists

Women’s colleges consistently outpace coeducational colleges in women who major in the sciences and mathematics

The tradition of educating women in the sciences has long been part of the Wells experience. Increased emphasis on science education continues to be a primary focus for Wells women, not only because it is part of an historic tradition, but also because science has become such a dominant and important force in our lives. Due to the preeminence of the sciences in the world today, and a quarter of the class of 2002 committed to the pursuit of a career in the sciences, The Board of Trustees at Wells unanimously approved plans for a new multi-million dollar science building.

According to President Lisa Marsh Ryerson, "for generations, Wells women have unlocked the mysteries of chemistry, biology, and physics by studying with gifted professors who are both scholars and teachers." "Preparing women scientists is our social responsibility as one of the nation’s leading colleges," Ryerson concluded.

Today, Wells College is a leader among women’s colleges in educating its students in science and mathematics.

In his 1906 Commencement Address, Nicholas Lansing Zabriskie stated, "...if you wish to see the [scientific] side of a liberal education expanded, you will have to provide the facilities for it, and so I determined to erect a building for the proper housing of scientific departments." Currently, the role of science at Wells has progressed beyond the walls of historic Zabriskie Hall.

Therefore, in 1998, Wells contracted with an architectural firm experienced in renovating and designing new academic buildings. Meetings between architects, faculty, staff and members of the administration were held to set priorities and identify multi-disciplinary use of spaces while maintaining general program intent.

In November 1999, it was determined that the science programs could no longer be appropriately housed in Zabriskie Hall. In order for the science program to remain in Zabriskie, the structure would require accommodations for handicap accessibility, elevators, enclosed fireproof stairways, elaborate ventilation systems, and additional infrastructure that would use as much as 30 percent of the existing space. Renovating the building with a sizable addition would actually be more expensive than building a new science facility.

In January 1999, the Wells College Board of Trustees voted unanimously to build a new science facility at an estimated cost of approximately $17.3 million. Included in this sum is both the actual cost of construction as well as an endowment for perpetual maintenance of the new structure coupled, with continuous support of the science program.

At the same time, Zabriskie Hall, the original home of the sciences since its inauguration in 1905, will be renovated to house other academic disciplines. The Trustees recommended the location for the science building in the October 2000 meeting. The new science building will be located in the parking lot north of Macmillan Hall. Prototype layouts have been developed and the new building increases the amount of student/faculty research space and makes room for more teaching laboratories as well.

"Our classes are rich with hands-on, investigative learning opportunities. A unique aspect of our learning experience is that every one of our science majors is required to do independent research in collaboration with a faculty member," said Candace Whitmer Collmer, Chair of Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences.

"In biology and chemistry, that research extends over three to four semesters and culminates in both a written research paper and a public, oral presentation in our Science Colloquium. Students working on their project get a lot of one-on-one attention from their faculty mentor and typically use equipment unavailable to undergraduates at many institutions," Collmer stated.

And what's especially unique is that the entire science curriculum at Wells works to prepare students for success in this independent venture. With classroom and laboratory meetings providing rich opportunities for collaborative, hands-on investigative learning, critical thinking and problem solving, and a wide variety of small, independent projects embedded in the labs associated with courses, it is common to find Wells’ students engrossed in independent and/or collaborative research projects.

Wells students continue to forge new ground in science and science research. Some of these trends, as well as highlights of their recent research with faculty are cited below:

• Nineteen percent of degrees granted over the last three years went to majors in the sciences and mathematics.
• Wells has extraordinary success in graduate student placement in the sciences and other fields. Seventy percent of Wells graduates attend graduate school, as compared to the national average of 25 percent.
• Students working with Professor Christopher Bailey (Chemistry) have used a kinetics approach to analyze mechanisms of iron release from ovatransferrin, thus continuing research he himself worked on as an undergraduate at Beloit College.
• Funding from the U.S Department of Agriculture (A.R.E.A.) Strengthening Program, has allowed Professor Candace Collmer and her students to work on several molecular biology projects related to the I gene of bean and resistance to plant potyviruses. To date, two papers on that work have been published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Jennifer Ellsworth "01, a mathematical and physical sciences major, is taking advantage of the college’s 3/2 engineering affiliations with Columbia University and will earn a B.A. from Wells and a B.S. degree from Columbia--all in five years.
• "When applying to graduate schools, I found that my undergraduate research experience at Wells was a critical factor. I believe it was vital to my acceptance to Harvard University’s Ph.D. program," declared Kristi L. Forbes, ’93.

The new science facility will expand opportunities for all students by expanding the lab space and access to state-of-the-art research equipment. Research suggests that access to such research designs and methods are particularly beneficial to women students.

For more information, contact the Office of Communications at 315.364.3260. Further information can also be found at www.wells.edu.

November, 2000

October 30, 2000

To all Wells alumnae,

I am pleased to share important news from Wells. Earlier this month the Board of Trustees unanimously endorsed a resolution to adopt a master plan as the "guiding instrument for campus physical planning." This plan will enable us to provide the best possible educational experience for our students. This means there will be changes, some of which may be difficult to embrace immediately. As an alumna myself, I share many nostalgic memories of our campus from a student's perspective, but I recognize change is necessary for Wells to remain a leader in women's education.

Wells College will always be dedicated to providing an excellent liberal arts education in a small, residential all-women's campus. Indeed, one of Wells' greatest assets is her campus. Yet, as beautiful as many of our most cherished buildings are, unfortunately some are no longer suited to the work for which they were originally designed. In order to meet the ever-changing needs of our students and faculty, we must look at ways to improve our campus.

As you may already know, approximately $3.4 million raised during The Campaign for Wells College has been already earmarked for the science building. The remaining funds were dedicated exclusively for the endowment, academic programs, annual support, and previously completed projects, such as the renovation of Weld House and upgrades to campus technology.

The preliminary work of evaluating building conditions and investigating the relative costs of renovation and construction has informed decision making to this point. Equally as important, we have looked at the issues surrounding accessibility for differently-abled women, compliance with federal law, and energy and environmental considerations.

The renovation and expansion will improve essentially all campus buildings by increasing accessibility, providing better accommodations for all students, and enhancing the quality of teaching space for our faculty. In addition to highlighting and preserving our beautiful 19th century buildings and capitalizing on our relationship with the landscape and the lake, important components of the plan include the following:

• The proposed location for the new science building is just north of Macmillan in approximately the area that is now the parking lot. Zabriskie Hall will then be renovated to house other academic disciplines - which have not yet been determined.
• In addition to serious code compliance deficiencies, Barler and Campbell Halls are inadequate to support a vibrant and active arts program. For example, many of our studio art majors now work in other buildings due to lack of suitable space in Campbell, and Barler does not provide an environment conducive to teaching. At Wells, we care deeply about the arts and we are working with the faculty to clarify program needs and identify and design appropriate and supportive space for the arts.
• While clearly an impressive building, Long Library has proven extremely inefficient for heating and cooling needs. In addition, it does not have a central sprinkler system. Our librarians have identified numerous deficiencies, including the building layout and configuration, which detract from our ability to meet the needs of our current students as well as the long-term library needs of the college. We anticipate the possibility of removing the building and we are exploring the feasibility of moving Cleveland Hall for reuse as the foundation of a new library.
• The plan will create a core academic area on campus as well as a "common space" that will allow students and faculty to interact throughout the day. I believe this space will strengthen Wells' unique sense of campus community.

• consideration of moving Smith Hall to provide an expanded and improved student center;
• construction of new residential space to replace Dodge residence hall; and
• improved athletic facilities.

I encourage you to share your feedback and ask questions directly of me at president_ryerson@wells.edu. You may expect further information about this exciting new stage in Wells' history in the upcoming February issue of the Express and on our web site at www.wells.edu.

I believe that although our buildings and the face of our campus may change, the core of our mission remains the same. It is our unwavering commitment to providing an excellent liberal arts education for women that allows us to move forward with both clarity and confidence.

Sincerely,
 

Lisa Marsh Ryerson '81
President

October, 2000

The Wells College Chamber Singers had a very successful concert trip to Germany last August, winning enthusiastic responses from audiences and rave reviews from critics. The fifteen student singers, conducted by Professor Crawford R. Thoburn, spent ten days in Germany participating in the International Youth Music Festival held in Bad Arolsen. Professor Thoburn's wife, Karen A. Hindenlang, director of music at St. Joseph's School in Auburn, New York, also went on the trip and served as accompanist as well as a singer with the group.

"It was a wonderful opportunity. Our students not only performed, they met students from other countries: Polish students, Siberian students, English students, and many others," said Crawford.

Afua Boahene '03, of DeWitt, New York, concurs. This was her first visit to a foreign country. By staying with a German family, she found herself immersed in a different culture; and the positive experience sparked a new interest in travel: "My host family was wonderful. They took care of everything, even providing me with snacks when I went to practice. My host father made sure I knew his home was my home. They were such warm people. I really enjoyed my stay."

Highlights of the chamber singers' trip included two concerts in one day at the Church of St. Boniface, prominently located at the top of an extinct volcano in Amoeneberg. In the morning, the singers performed for students at a prestigious private school, founded in 721 A.D. by St. Boniface. After a tour of nearby Marburg, led by the school's art history teacher, the Wells women gave a full concert in the evening to the entire community. Another memorable performance was given with other choral groups in a lovely Bad Arolsen church before a standing-room-only crowd.

The Chamber Singers have maintained a tradition of choral excellence since 1960, winning prizes in international competition, performing throughout the northeastern U.S., and singing by invitation for professional meetings of choral conductors and music educators. The performances in Germany featured a wide variety of compositions taken from the Renaissance through the 20th century, including American folk songs and works by American composers. Several of the selections were arranged or edited by Professor Thoburn.

"The rehearsals in the days before the festival were the most exciting I've had in years," said Crawford. "The students had been away from the music for several months, and they were obviously happy to be doing it again. I was particularly pleased that all the training they go through paid off. We did seven performances in six days. American choirs don't usually do things like that. We sang more than any other group."

Mary West '03 of Chichester, New Hampshire, said, "I gained confidence in my singing ability because I knew the group was dependent on me, as it is on each of its members, to perform well and make America proud to have sent us as representatives to this international music festival."

Professor of German Waltraut Deinert played a key role in organizing the trip and in attending to managerial details in Germany. As a former resident of Bad Arolsen, she brought the festival to the attention of Professor Thoburn and encouraged him to have the Chamber Singers audition to be included as one of the ensembles in residence. She also created an exchange agreement that brought the award-winning " Smoke Revival Orchestra" of Bad Arolsen to Wells for a residency and performance in October. Many of the members of the band had hosted Wells students in August, so it was a joyful reunion for many of the Chamber Singers and their German friends.

The Chamber Singers are thankful for the financial support they received from the Dean of the College, the Collegiate Association, and the large number of Concert Choir alumnae who had donated generously to a fund for sponsoring Choir travel.

A digitally mastered CD is being produced which will include recordings of the Chamber Singers made in Germany. It will be available from the College Bookstore for a cost of $14.00 (includes shipping charge). New York State residents please add the 8% sales tax (total cost $15.12). All profits from this venture will benefit the Choir Travel Fund. Send order to: Book Shop, Smith Hall, Wells College, Aurora, New York 13026 (315.364.3261; bookshop@wells.edu.

As Jane Marsh Dieckmann '55 points out in Wells College: A History, singing and singing groups are a defining presence in college tradition. This recent success in Europe is an indication the legacy will continue and enrich more lives. "I feel singing brings together students who have varying interests and who might not have any other opportunity to get to know each other," said Mary West. "It also enhances the pride of Wells students in their school - to know we are one of the best in the area of performing arts."

October, 2000

Wells College organizes Community Service Day

On Saturday, September 23, Wells College students, faculty and staff will engage in a day-long community service initiative that will allow campus members to volunteer at numerous not-for-profit sites within Cayuga and Tompkins Counties. This program is part of a year-long theme entitled "Connecting Communities" sponsored by the Office of the Dean of Experiential Learning and the Office of Student Activities.

"This is a great opportunity for our students to learn what some of the important issues are right here in our region. From mentoring to domestic violence, from working with seniors to maintaining trails, each student will get a better understanding of how they can make an impact by sharing their talents," says Terry Martinez, Dean of Experiential Learning.

Several community agencies within the two counties have invited Wells women to join them for specific projects. The morning will begin with a campus-wide rally, then teams will head off to do their work. The day will culminate back on campus with a community celebration in which participants can share their experiences.

"Students are very excited to become more active members of the local community. This gives them a chance to work side-by-side with the community in a different way," says Jeanine Birchenough, Director of Student Activities. "Many of our clubs and organizations have worked with these agencies in the past. This will enable them to strengthen the ties previously made."

Among those agencies participating are Big Brothers/Big Sisters, SAVAR, the Faatz-Crofut Home for the Elderly, The Women's Community Building, The Cayuga Nature Center, and others.

This event occurs in conjunction with the Commission of Independent Colleges and Universities' efforts to promote community service in New York State through it's Think·Learn·Act. campaign.

For more information, please contact Terry Martinez at 315-364-3404, or Jeanine Birchenough at 315-364-3330.

September, 2000

Earlier Articles in Wells College News:

September, 2002	September, 2000. - May.,2001	May,1998	May - June,1997
August, 2002	September, 1999 - August, 2000	April,1998	March - April,1997
September, 2001. - May.,2002	August,1999	March,1998	February,1997
	May,1999	February,1998	November - December,1996
	April,1999	January,1998	October,1996
	February -March, 1999	December,1997	September,1996
	January,1999	November,1997	June - Aug.,1996
	Fall,1998	October,1997	May,1996
	August,1998	September,1997	April,1996
	June -July, 1998	July - August, 1997	February - March, 1996