Sixth new campus building to complete Arts Complex

With fund raising in full swing, preliminary phases of construction for the Louis Palmer Art Gallery are underway with an anticipated grand opening this summer. The Palmer Gallery, a teaching and lecture art gallery, honors the memory of Louis O. Palmer, prominent professor of art and music at Muskingum from 1956 until 1981.

Our new Studio Arts Complex is designed to heighten the artistic experience for students, alumni, visitors, and friends of the University. Located on the east lawn, the Studio Arts Complex complements Muskingum's new music facility and includes Paul Hall, the John and Ruth Neptune Center and the new Louis O. Palmer Gallery. Together, these facilities transform the east lawn into a functional, inspirational setting for creative and artistic learning.

Slated for completion this summer, the 2,400-square-foot gallery will showcase the work of students, faculty, alumni and guest artists. Because it will be equipped with special lighting, technology, furnishings and window treatments to darken the space, the Gallery will also be an ideal venue for speakers and lecture series on the arts.

With the completion of the Louis 0. Palmer Art Gallery, the Studio Arts Complex on the East Campus will become Muskingum's new "front door," creating a welcoming entrance for friends and guests who arrive on campus via College Drive. The Gallery will be located at the heart of the East Campus Studio Arts Complex and will be connected, via pathways, to Muskingum's historic academic quadrangle between Montgomery Hall and John Glenn Gymnasium.

Undergraduate commencement features address by Wiley W. Souba ’75 and baccalaureate speech by Myron E. Moorehead II ’58

Muskingum University held its undergraduate commencement exercises on May 11, featuring an address by 1975 alumnus Dr. Wiley W. Souba.  The baccalaureate address was delivered by 1958 alumnus Dr. Myron E. Moorehead II.  Bachelor of arts, bachelor of science and bachelor of science in nursing degrees were conferred.

Dr. Souba serves Dartmouth College as vice president for health affairs, dean of the Geisel School of Medicine, professor of surgery and professor of business administration in the Tuck School of Business.  His was previously vice president and executive dean for Health Sciences and dean of the College of Medicine at The Ohio State University; chair of the Department of Surgery at Penn State University College of Medicine, surgeon-in-chief at Penn State Hershey Medical Center and director of the Penn State Hershey Center for Leadership Development; chief of surgical oncology at the Massachusetts General Hospital and professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School and a faculty member of the University of Florida College of Medicine.

Recognized by his peers as one of the Best Doctors in America for surgical oncology, Dr. Souba’s scientific research on amino acid metabolism in relation to intestinal cancer is funded by the National Institutes of Health.  A prolific author of peer-reviewed journal articles and co-editor of the Journal of Surgical Research, he is active in multiple professional societies and serves on the administrative board of the Association of American Medical Colleges.  He is a frequent lecturer and workshop presenter on health care leadership and leadership development. 

Dr. Souba graduated summa cum laude from Muskingum with a bachelor of science degree in chemistry.  He earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston, a doctor of science degree in Nutritional Biochemistry at the Harvard School of Public Health and a master of business administration degree from the Boston University College of Business.  He served a residency at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston and fellowships at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston, MA), and surgical oncology at MD Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute (Houston, TX).

He is a native of Caracas, Venezuela, and moved to the New Jersey area as a teenager. He and his wife, Lynne Hayes Souba,  reside in Hanover, NH, and are the parents of a son and a daughter.

In his commencement address, Dr. Souba referred to what he coined “The Muskingum Multiplier,” or the high value of  a Muskingum education coupled with the students’ own sense of commitment and personal dedication.  “Today,” he said, “you go out into the world as our new leaders.  Be bold, be confident and don’t be afraid to set the bar high.  Your actions are the best definition of your true self.” 

In recognition of his achievements, the university bestowed upon Dr. Souba the honorary degree of doctor of science.

In her remarks to the graduating class, Muskingum University President Dr. Anne C. Steele said, “Today is your day. You have worked hard and with distinction. Your Muskingum education is a cornerstone of your life, and it will continue to serve you and shape your future.”

Taylor W. Arnold ’13 represented the class of 2013. The charge to the class from the faculty was presented by Associate Professor of Business Gary Golden and the charge from the Board of Trustees was presented by alumnus and Board Chair Harold W. Burlingame.

The baccalaureate service was held at 10:00 a.m. In his address, Dr. Moorehead “You are prepared to flourish and do your part.  Remember that you must first serve before you can lead.  Allow yourself to take a chance so you can make a change.” 

In recognition of his lifetime of work, Dr. Moorehead was granted an honorary doctor of science degree. 

Dr. Myron Moorehead is a private practice physician specializing in gynecology and laser micro surgery, and the founder and director of the Women’s Laser Institute and the Fibroid Center. He has pioneered laser treatment of fibroids for gynecological and infertility problems, providing women throughout the New Orleans metropolitan area with alternatives to hysterectomy.

An active community leader, Dr. Moorehead was elected in 1999 to serve as King Zulu, representing Mardi Gras’ largest predominantly African-American carnival krewe established in 1909.  He took an historic step forward to create a new Mardi Gras tradition, becoming the first King Zulu to formally meet with Rex, the King of Carnival representing the predominantly-white krewe founded in 1872.  Their meeting took place 50 years after Louis Armstrong reigned as King Zulu in 1949, and 31 years after the Zulu krewe first appeared on the city’s main parade route in 1968.  Since Dr. Moorehead launched the tradition, the formal meeting of krewe Kings has endured as an annual rite of “Lundi Gras” (Fat Monday).

Dr. Moorehead is dedicated to furthering education, human services, civic development, and the arts.  He has served as chairman of the board of Xavier University of Louisiana and of the Greater New Orleans Foundation, and as a board member of Covenant House of New Orleans, the Audubon Institute, Jefferson Performing Arts Society, Contemporary Arts Center, Pennington Biomedical Research Foundation, Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation, and the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club.  He has helped shape Muskingum’s future through his service on the University Board of Trustees.  

A biology major at Muskingum, Dr. Moorehead earned his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN.  He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Walter Reed General Hospital in Washington, D.C. and served in the United States Air Force.  He is a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a leader in multiple professional societies.  He and his wife, Patricia, reside in Kenner, Louisiana, and are the parents of three children. 

Itunu D. Dacosta ’13 read the scripture lesson for baccalaureate and Kara M. Kimes ’13 led the Collect.

Master’s degrees granted at 2013 graduate commencement, with address by D. Tom McCalmont ’76

Muskingum University granted master’s degrees at its graduate commencement exercises, held May 9 in Brown Chapel on the campus. The address was delivered by 1976 alumnus D. Tom McCalmont. 

Degrees conferred were the Master of Arts in Teaching, the Master of Arts in Education and the Master of Information Strategy, Systems and Technology.

Muskingum University President Anne C. Steele congratulated the assembled graduates and said, “You have worked hard, and we are very proud of you. What you have done here will have an impact on thousands of individuals, your communities and the world.”

In his address, Mr. McCalmont told the graduates, “What you know matters much less than what you do with what you know.  Make good use of what you know and push forward fearlessly.”

Recognizing his lifetime of achievement, the university bestowed upon him an honorary doctor of science degree. 

D. Tom McCalmont, an entrepreneur and inventor, holds 13 United States patents and has focused his career on developing new businesses that deliver innovative technology solutions and solve real-world customer problems.

He is the president and co-founder of McCalmont Engineering, a leading designer of large-scale solar power plants and related renewable energy technology.  He also serves as a director of Solmetric Corporation, an award-winning provider of software and hardware tools for the solar installation industry.  Previously, he co-founded and served as CEO of REgrid Power, which rapidly became one of California’s largest and most respected solar electric integrators.  

Mr. McCalmont advances the use of solar energy throughout the country, as co-founder and chairman of SolarTech, a non-profit private/public consortium.  SolarTech brings together industry and the public sector to drive the growth of solar energy, by eliminating state and local barriers to solar power adoption and serving as a collaborative forum for addressing solar integration challenges. 

He shares his expertise in support of education and economic development as a member of the Santa Clara University School of Engineering Advisory Board, the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), the nationally recognized certification agency for solar professionals; Joint Venture:Silicon Valley Network and the Climate Prosperity Council.   His service as a member of Muskingum’s Board of Trustees has helped shape the University’s future. 

A physics major at Muskingum, Mr. McCalmont earned a master of science degree in electrical engineering from Stanford University and completed the AEA/Stanford Executive MBA program. 

He and his wife Darlene, his co-founder in REgrid and the first woman in California to become a NABCEP-certified solar engineer, reside in San Jose, California.  They are the parents of Stacey and Aaron.

Candidates for master’s degrees were presented by Vice President of Academic Affairs James Callaghan The degrees were conferred by President Steele, Muskingum University Trustee and alumnus Gordon Spillman, Vice President of Graduate and Continuing Studies Dr. Mark Sanford, Department of Education Chair Dr. Rae Harriott White and Associate Professor of Informatics Dr. Doyt L. Perry.

Faculty marshals were Professor of Communication and Theatre Dr. Jerry Martin and Dr. Larry Normansell, the Henry and Mary Evelyn Laurent Distinguished Professor of Psychology. 

The student marshal was Evan M. McCullough. 

Karen DeBaldo ’13 receives highest award from international foreign language honor society

Karen DeBaldo ’13 has received the Dr. Henry Ward Church Scholarship, the highest honor granted by Phi Sigma Iota, the international foreign language honor society.  DeBaldo, a German and education major, is the second student at Muskingum to earn the Church scholarship, which is granted to only one student in the United States.

During her career at Muskingum, DeBaldo has amassed a long list of academic achievements and honors.  In April, she was selected to present a paper at the Kentucky Foreign Language Conference.  Titled Media snapshots enhance a topics based discussion about the Third Reich, the paper examined how modern German films portray the women of Nazi Germany between 1933 and 1945.

In 2010, DeBaldo received Muskingum's Mary E. Sharp Award for Excellence in German.  In 2011, she was inducted into Phi Sigma Iota, as well as Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and largest honor society dedicated to excellence in all academic pursuits. 

Earlier this year, DeBaldo received a scholarship to attend the Ohio Foreign Language Association Conference in Columbus, where she attended conferences related to her interest in teaching German.  In both 2010 and 2012, she studied at Passau University in Germany, in both a semester-long program and a summer language immersion program. 

At Muskingum, DeBaldo was involved in the German Club and the university’s Phi Sigma Iota chapter.  In addition, she was a resident of the university’s German House and was actively engaged with both German- and Spanish-speaking students who have travelled to Muskingum from abroad.

DeBaldo has just completed her student teaching assignment at Tri-Valley High School and will graduate from Muskingum on May 11.  She plans to pursue a career teaching German.

Her faculty advisor in German is Professor of German Dr. Franz-Joseph Wehage. 

Dr. Homer A. Anderson Lecture features Dr. Sarah McBeth ’04 and presentations of student research findings

The Science Division held its annual Dr. Homer A. Anderson Lecture on April 25, delivered by alumna Dr. Sarah McBeth ’04.  Her presentation, titled AIDS is Problematic: And Other Things I've Learned Since College, focused on the challenges facing those in the developing world who need treatment for HIV and AIDS, as compared to the options available in the developed world.

Following her graduation from Muskingum, Dr. McBeth spent a year as a Centers for Disease Control Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratory Training Fellow and then went to Wright State University to earn her medical degree and a master’s degree in public health. Currently, she is in the global health track of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Residency.

In addition to clinical experiences with the Indian Health Service in Alaska and Arizona, Dr. McBeth spent four months last year working at a clinic in Beira, Mozambique, a city that has among the highest incidence rates of HIV in the world. This summer, she will begin an infectious diseases fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Following the Anderson Lecture, students from the Science Division made poster presentations of their research findings. The Science Division includes the departments of biology, chemistry, geology, physics and engineering, mathematics, computer science and psychology as well as interdisciplinary programs in molecular biology, environmental science, neuroscience and conservation science. Their work was judged by the division’s faculty and three prize winners and one honorable mentions were named.

The following students were recognized:

First place was awarded to Jessica Warns ’13, who presented Improvement of Reverse Transcription Efficiency of BCR-ABL Fusion Transcript with Gene-Specific Priming.

Second place went to Lauren Woods ’13, who presented Synthesis And Analysis of a Novel Charge-Transfer Complex From 1,2,3,6,7,8-Hexahydropyrene And 2,3-Dichloro-5,6,-Dicyano-P- Benzoquinone.

Third place was awarded to Gina Pattison ’13, who presented Personality Affects Attitudes Toward Tactile Communication.

Honorable mention was received by Jeremy Whitson ’13, who presented Synthesizing Borrelia Burgdorferi Bmta Antibodies for Lyme Disease Research.

To read the complete abstract of all the participants’ research, click here. 

Senior Science Division students present research findings at Bradford Colloquium

Senior Science Division students presented their research findings at the annual James Bradford Colloquium, held April 22 in Boyd Science Center. The colloquium is the culmination of research conducted by seniors from the division’s biology, chemistry, geology, physics and engineering, mathematics, computer science and psychology departments, as well as interdisciplinary programs in molecular biology, environmental science, neuroscience and conservation science.

Their presentations were made to their student peers and the Science Division faculty. The faculty then chose the top three presenters.

First place was awarded to Jeremy Whitson, who presented Synthesizing Borrelia burgdorferi BmtA Antibodies for Lyme Disease Research Charge-transfer.  He was advised by Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Toyin Osunsanya.

Second place was awarded to Alex Seaholm, who presented Optimization of the Extraction of Oil From Waste Coffee Grounds.  He was advised by Associate Professor of Chemistry Dr. Lois Zook-Gerdau.

Receiving third place was Donna McGrath,  Ego-Depletion and Motivation: The Effects of Praise on Willpower.  He was advised by Assistant Professor of Psychology Dr. Mark Stambush.  

Also making their presentations were: 

John Cook presented Could Procoptodon goliah Hop? and was advised by Assistant Professor of Geology, Dr. David Rodland. 

Michael Finch presented A Water Quality Assessment of White Eyes Creek and Salt Creek Using Macro-Invertebrates and Water Chemistry.  He was advised by Dr. Danny Ingold, the Homer A. Anderson Distinguished Professor in the Natural Sciences.    

Tereza Toma'nkova' presented  Acute Phenylalanine Administration Suppresses Extracellular Dopamine via Release Mediated Mechanisms.  He was advised by Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Brian Bergstrom.

Students and faculty collaborate on research for 2013 Summer Muskie Fellows program

Several students have been accepted into the 2013 Summer Muskie Fellows program.

The program allows students and faculty to immerse themselves in the pursuit of specific and challenging areas of research that the students study during the regular school year.

To be considered for a fellowship, students must write a detailed proposal of what they intend to study and what they hope that study will achieve. This is done in tandem with the faculty members with whom they intend to work, and who must provide the formal nomination for the fellowship. Proposals are then considered by the office of the vice president of academic affairs and ultimately approved by the president of the university. 

The following students and faculty are working together this summer:

Megan Duke ’14 will conduct research on mathematical problems posed in professional mathematics journals with Professor of Mathematics Dr. Richard Daquila.

Ryan Burke ’14 and Andy Piper ’14 will study point counts and nest detection of grassland shrub-nesting birds at The Wilds with Dr. Jim Dooley, the Bill and Martha Lovejoy Distinguished Professor of Biology,  and Dr. Danny Ingold,  the Homer A. Anderson Distinguished Professor in the Natural Sciences. 

Connie Montoney ’14 and Marc Patti ’14 will study the management and digitization of Muskingum’s archival materials with Dr. William Kerrigan, the Arthur G. Cole and Eloise Barnes Cole Distinguished Professor of American History.

Caitlin Deep ’14 will study capital punishment clemency decisions in Ohio with Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Stacy Parker.

Katherine Simms ’13 will study the development of branding strategies, market research for a new business with Instructor of Business Kristine Pray.

Sarah Francino ’16 will continue a study of a more blight resistant hybrid type of chestnut trees at a reclaimed surface coal mine with Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Amy Santas.

Phillip Krall ’15 and Nicholas Rohozen ’14 will study the creation of  unmanned aerial vehicle technology to be deployed to civilian search and rescue teams with Jay Shaffstall.

Chris Deal ’13 will study the development of a model to predict shoreline erosion in Salt Fork Lake with Associate Professor of Geology Dr. Stephen Van Horn.

Four students place second in business case competition

Four Muskingum University students placed second in the 2013 Peoples Bank Undergraduate Business Case Competition, held recently as part of this year’s McDonough Leadership Conference at Marietta College.

Competing for Muskingum were seniors M. Deven Cruikshank, who will graduate in December; and Itunu Dacosta, Amber Hockman and Nate Spain, who will graduate in May.  As a team, they were challenged to analyze a financial services case study and present their solutions to conference attendees and a panel of judges.

The case they studied  involved Peoples Bank and how it should deploy excess capital. The students had to analyze current industry trends and financial statements for Peoples, as well as other banks.  The panel of judges was comprised of Peoples executives with differing viewpoints regarding what to do with excess capital.

The students’ advisor is Instructor of Business Kristine C. Pray. 

The McDonough Leadership Center at Marietta College, and its annual conference,  focus on the importance of leadership studies as a way of preparing its students for a life of purpose and engagement in the spirit of intellectual exploration, scholarship, self-reflection and personal leadership development.

Dr. Barb Hansen honored for international work in invitational learning; Education Department receives grant for
research study

Dr. Barb Hansen, Dave Longaberger Professor of Teaching and Learning and Distinguished Professor of Education at Muskingum University, was recently recognized for her leadership in the International Alliance for Invitational Education (IAIE) , receiving the William Stafford Leadership Award. It is the highest award presented by the organization. Established in 2003 to recognize exceptional leadership within the Alliance, the William Stafford Leadership Award is named for the late Dr. William Stafford, former Professor of Counselor Education at Lehigh University. Significant contribution to the development of invitation theory and practice, and outstanding performance in key leadership roles and responsibilities are among the criteria. She received the award at the 2012 IAIE World Conference in Hong Kong. IAIE is an international group committed to helping educators develop and promote the understanding that every person adds to, or subtracts from, the process of being a beneficial presence in the lives of students.

"I credit this award to the Muskingum Education Department’s commitment to invitational learning,” said Dr. Hansen about the award. “Muskingum’s work in invitational learning is known across Ohio and the nation,” she added. That commitment was recognized in 2008 when the Muskingum University Education Department earned the International Inviting School Award and was the only higher education institution to receive an award that year. Since that time, Muskingum has worked with various school districts and projects in invitational education, including the creation of the Ohio Chapter for Invitational Education, which hosted the International 2010 Conference in Columbus where participants from seven nations attended.

Additionally, Muskingum’s work with invitational education was recognized at IAIE’s 2012 conference in Hong Kong, China, when the Education Department was named the recipient of a competitive research study award. This study will be conducted with Park Street Intermediate School in the South Western School District in Columbus, Ohio.Education Department faculty leading the study include Dr. Rae White, Director of the Educator Preparation Program and Professor of Education, Dr. Linda Rogness, Professor of Education, and Dr. Hansen. The study will analyze the growth of invitational education in the Park Street Intermediate School.

Since that time, Muskingum has worked with various schools and projects in invitational education, including the creation of the Ohio Chapter for Invitational Education, which hosted the International 2010 Conference in Columbus. Participants from seven nations attended.

Professors donate their latest book to university library

Professor of Art Yan Sun and his wife, Assistant Professor of Art Hong Yin, have donated a book they co-authored to the university’s library.

Titled The Unity of Nature and Humanity - Chinese Mausoleum Stone Sculptures in the Tang Dynasty, the book is the result of years of research about the stone mausoleum sculptures of China, especially those of the Tang Dynasty. It is designed to help readers learn about Chinese sculptural art and Chinese culture through an analysis of Tang Dynasty mausoleum sculptures in the context of Chinese philosophical ideas, aesthetic ideals, burial customs and historical context. It is published by Sanqin Publishers, Shaanxi Publishing Group and is available in the Muskingum University bookstore.

In accepting the donation, Dr. Sheila Ellenberger said, "Yan and Hong both deserve highest accolades for this book, which is obviously a labor of love.  But more importantly, it is an extraordinary work on an important era in Chinese history.”  Dr. Ellenberger is the Henry S. and Katherine W. Evans Director and Distinguished Librarian at Muskingum. 

This is Sun’s sixth book.  In 2007, he wrote Yan Sun - Cross Culture, Cross Century, published by the Hayden Museum of American Art.  In addition to his work as an author, Sun is a prolific and widely recognized artist.  Most recently, he mounted a solo exhibition, Viewpoints and Vistas - Paintings by Yan Sun, at the Zanesville Art Museum. 

Sun is the Ruth Dorsey Neptune Distinguished Professor of Fine Arts at Muskingum.  He joined the faculty in 1997 after earning his bachelor’s degree from Northwest Normal University, his master’s degree from Xi’an Academy of Fine Arts and his master of fine arts degree from East Texas State University (now Texas A & M University – Commerce).

Yin received both her doctor of education and master of science degrees at Texas A & M University – Commerce. She also earned a master of arts degree with a major in Western art history from Xi’an Academy of Fine Arts and a bachelor’s degree in the fine arts from Northwest China Normal University. In 2006, Texas A & M – Commerce named her an “Alumni Ambassador.”  Her research interests focus on 19th century European art, contemporary art, Chinese mausoleum sculpture and graphic design.

In the photo: From left to right, Professor of Art Yan Sun, Library Director Dr. Sheila Ellenberger and Assistant Professor of Art Hong Yin. 

Professor screens documentary at film festival

Muskingum University Professor of Sociology Dr. Steve McGuire was selected to screen his documentary film, 1948 and Counting, at the 4th Annual Cinema Verde Environmental Film and Arts Festival in Gainesville, Florida.

Dr. McGuire’s film centers on Costa Rica’s 1948 decision to not maintain a formal army, despite various regional threats.  Previously, Dr. McGuire’s experimental film, A Day in the Life, was screened at the Seattle Truly Independent Film Festival and the San Francisco New Media Film Festival, as well as earning an award from The Indie Gathering, an Ohio film festival.

The Cinema Verde Festival is committed to bringing together community organizations, businesses and individuals who wish to help forge sustainable solutions to important issues facing the world. 

Muskingum to add lacrosse as varsity sport

Muskingum University is proud to announce that men’s and women’s lacrosse will be added as a varsity sport beginning in the 2014-2015 academic year. Muskingum joins seven other Ohio Athletic Conference schools in adding lacrosse, which has been the fastest-growing team sport in America over the past decade.

For the 2013-2014 year, Muskingum will field a team that will compete at the junior varsity level, in preparation for the NCAA Division III competition the following year. The teams will play their home games on the ProGrass Turf on Sherman Field in McConagha Stadium.

"It’s always exciting to offer additional athletic opportunities to our student-athletes," said Muskingum Athletic Director Larry Shank. "Adding lacrosse will enhance Muskingum and showcase our university to a greater number of high school students."

The addition of men’s and women’s lacrosse will elevate Muskingum’s athletic department to 21 varsity sports.

A national search in underway for head coaches for both teams, with expectations of positions being filled by the summer of 2013.

Two students present paper at educators’ conference

Megan Duke ’14 and Valerie Toothman ’14, both teacher candidates preparing to teach mathematics, made their presentation at a conference session titled Teaching to the Common Core K-8.  Their research centered on ways to help students understand the mathematical concepts of median and probability, as well as how to reinforce multiplication skills.

In their presentation, they examined how educators can use interactive strategies to help students understand mathematical principles, including activities with dice and cards..  They also engaged session participants in developing learning targets to set clear goals for students, as well as breaking down skills and concepts from the Ohio Math Common Core Standards

The conference was sponsored by the  Southeast Ohio Teacher Development Collaborative and the Coalition of Rural Appalachian Schools, which includes Muskingum University, Marietta College, Ohio University, Shawnee State University and The University of Rio Grande.

Three from Muskingum selected for annual Watermedia Society art show while Professor Yan Sun mounts special exhibition

Two Muskingum University art students and their professor, Yan Sun, were selected to participate in the 35th Annual Southeastern Ohio Watermedia Society exhibition at the Zanesville Museum of Art.  

Appearing with Professor Sun in the juried exhibition were Grandma’s Barn, an acrylic by Grace Turner ’13 (pictured here) and Lovers, an acrylic by Dandan Song.  Their work was displayed along with that of 21 other artists

At the same time, Professor Sun mounted a special exhibition at the museum.  Titled Viewpoints and Vistas: Paintings by Yan Sun, it displayed a series of both oils and acrylics that reflect his international experiences and some ballet themes.

Professor Sun is the Ruth Dorsey Neptune Distinguished Profess or Fine Arts at Muskingum, where he teaches studio and theory courses.  He joined the faculty in 1997.

Dr. Harsha Abeyaratne performs at Carnegie Hall

Associate Professor of Music Dr. Harsha Abeyaratne performed a solo recital at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall on December 14. The performance was his New York solo debut, and featured Robert Muczynski’s Third Piano Sonata and Franz Liszt’s Mephisto Waltz.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Dr. Abeyaratne is an active collaborative pianist and soloist.  In recent years, he has appeared as a soloist with the National Symphony Orchestra of Sri Lanka and the Southeastern Ohio Symphony Orchestra. In addition, he has collaborated with world-renowned clarinetist Rebecca Rischin and internationally recognized jazz violinist Randy Sabien.

As a collaborative pianist, Dr. Abeyaratne has played numerous works written by contemporary composers and performed with professional musicians at summer concerts at the University of Southern Oregon and the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp.  His solo concerts include a performance of Rhapsody in Blue with the Muskingum Valley Symphonic Winds, a Liszt/Schumann recital, which featured Liszt’s B minor Sonata at The Ohio State University, and Chopin recitals at Marshall University and Jacksonville University.  Also active as a chamber musician, he performs regularly as a member of The Alato Trio. 

To read a feature from The Daily Jeffersonian on Dr. Abeyaratne's preparation for the performance and his career in music, click here.


Dr. William Kerrigan publishes new book on Johnny Appleseed

Professor of American History Dr. William Kerrigan has published a new book, Johnny Appleseed and the American Orchard A Cultural History. Published by The Johns Hopkins University Press, the book is available from the Muskingum University bookstore and from Amazon.   It illuminates the meaning of Johnny "Appleseed" Chapman’s life and the environmental and cultural significance of the plant he propagated.

Creating what has been described as “a startling new portrait of the eccentric apple tree planter,” Dr. Kerrigan carefully dissects the oral tradition of the Appleseed myth and draws upon material from archives and local historical societies across New England and the Midwest.

Dr. Kerrigan joined the Muskingum University faculty in 1997 and today is the university’s Arthur G. Cole and Eloise Barnes Cole Distinguished Professor of American History.  He earned his bachelor’s degree from Austin College, his master’s degree from Texas Christian University and his doctoral degree from the University of Michigan. 

In 2004, Dr. Kerrigan earned the Ohio Academy of Teaching Award, for which he was nominated by his fellow Muskingum University faculty members.  In 2007, he earned Muskingum’s Cora I. Orr Award for Faculty Service.  In 2011, he received the William Oxley Thompson Award for Excellence in Teaching, the university’s highest honor for teaching.

In 2008, Dr. Kerrigan was named “Person of the Year” by the editorial staff of the Daily and Sunday Jeffersonian newspaper, for his support of a wide range of community initiatives.

At Muskingum, Dr. Kerrigan teaches a variety of courses in American history. His research interests are in the antebellum and civil war eras, as well as in American cultural and environmental history. He has directed several oral history projects, including Reclaiming Our Heritage, an oral and visual history of the impact of strip-mining on several communities in Appalachian Ohio.

In addition to his work in the classroom, Dr. Kerrigan and his students have published three regional history books: A Pictorial History of the Salt Fork Region, Cambridge, Ohio and A Pictorial History of Muskingum College. He also serves as the university’s archivist, and led the effort to help Muskingum celebrate its 175th anniversary (see story below).

In the community, Dr. Kerrigan was instrumental in bringing the nationally recognized Ohio Chautauqua to New Concord for the first time in that event’s history. He has also served on the Board of Trustees of the John and Annie Glenn Historic Site, and the New Concord Area Planning Task Force, in addition to his work as an outdoorsman and kayak instructor with the New Concord Area Arts and Recreation District.

Games By Teens announces 2012 contest winners

Muskingum University’s Games By Teens competition announced its winners for 2012.  The annual contest challenges high-school age students to conceive, design and program an original video game over the course of four working sessions conducted at Muskingum with the help of expert computer programmers.  Each game was then judged on a broad range of categories.  In addition to the sponsorship provided by Muskingum, Games By Teens received support from the Google Rise Awards.   

The following winners were named:
First place: Leon Hoos, of Ratingen, Germany, for Temple Escape.
Second Place:  Ryne Carletti, of Sheridan High School, for Time Of Spartans.
Third Place:  Julian Beetem, of New Concord, for Space Ambush.

The following received Honorable Mentions in various categories:
Best Use Of A Large Ship:  Adam Lyons of Cambridge.
Best Platform Game:  Alexis Hagan of Zanesville.
Most Unique Game:  Sam Carrel of Philo.
Best Use Of Time Travel: Aaron Taylor of Cambridge.
Best Survival Game:  Ronnie Cole of Zanesville.
Most Addicting Game, Bennett Van Horn of New Concord.
Best Use Of Multiple Ghosts:  Cameron Ward of Zanesville.

Judges for the competition were:  Eddie Corlew, lead programmer at 1^st  Playable Productions; Jonathan Meschino, designer/programmer for 1^st Playable Productions; Jay Shaffstall, assistant professor of computer science, Muskingum University; Brad Barnes, assistant professor of computer science, Muskingum University; and Dave Burkhart, a computer technology teacher at Sheridan High School in Thornville.

For more information on the contest, log on to www.gamesbyteens.org.


Student-broadcasters named finalists in national competition

Muskingum University’s radio and television stations had three projects that were finalists in the College Broadcasters, Incorporated (CBI) national competition.  Both WMCO, the university’s radio station, and Orbit TV, the television station, were named.

Nominated in the category of Best Radio Documentary/Public Affairs was Orbit News Desk: John Glenn’s 50th Anniversary of Orbit, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of Muskingum alumnus John Glenn’s orbiting of the Earth.            

The documentary’s student-producers are:  Marcus Barnhart ’13, Katie Borkoski ’12, Scott Chappuis ’12, John Clevinger ’15, Zach Coffman ’14, Kayla Kuznick ’12, Maleah Latting ’12, Taylor Lucey ’14, Sara Shallcross ’12 and Jonathan Williams ’12. 

In the category of Best Radio Promo, The Silent Storm Promo was nominated.  The 30-second commercial was produced by Eddie Jackson ’11 to promote his weekly radio show. 

Nominated in the category of Special TV Broadcast was Friendship 7: The Flight that Changed New Concord, which was a retrospective on the impact of John Glenn’s orbiting of the Earth aboard Friendship 7 in 1962.  It was produced by Jonathan Williams ’12. 

The station manager for WMCO radio is Assistant Professor of Communication Dr. Lisa Marshall and the Director of Broadcasting for Orbit TV is Professor of Communication Dr. Jeff Harman. 

CBI represents students involved in radio, television, webcasting and other related media ventures.  It ensures a commitment to education and the student pursuit of excellence through active involvement in electronic media.

Art professor’s work chosen in regional sculpture competition

A porcelain work by Muskingum University Associate Professor of Art Ken McCollum was selected in the juried HWD (Height, Width, Depth) 2012 Sculpture Competition exhibition.

Professor McCollum’s work, Geronimo Sugar Pops, was selected from artists in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Kentucky.  In all, 38 artists submitted 91 pieces, of which only 39 works were selected by 27 artists.

Those works were exhibited in the Rosewood Gallery in Kettering, Ohio. The gallery was established in 1986 in the Rosewood Arts Centre and specializes in the exhibition of contemporary art by local, regional and national artists.

Geronimo Sugar Pops is a porcelain piece representing a cereal box.  In his narrative for the competition, Professor McCollum described the theme by saying, “The illustrations on each surface are intended to tell the story of Geronimo and his conflicts with the U.S. government. On the rear side is a map of Florida, where he was imprisoned at Fort Pickens in the Florida panhandle. The idea of a cereal box with Geronimo as the theme refers to the concept of creating cheap images in today’s social structure from historically important individuals.”

Professor McCollum joined the Muskingum University faculty in 2000.  He earned his bachelor of fine arts degree from Phillips University, his master’s degree from West Texas State University and his mater of fine arts degree from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.  He is chair of the Art Department at Muskingum. 

Library receives donation of valuable reference books from the Daughters of the American Revolution

The Muskingum University Library accepted the donation of a valuable set of reference books from the Cambridge chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).

The Anna Asbury Stone Chapter of the DAR donated the three-volume set, America's Women in the Revolutionary Era 1760-1790: A History Through Bibliography. Published by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, the books are available for purchase only from the DAR, and currently are available at one public library in Ohio. The Muskingum Library intends to make the volumes available to the public for research in the library only, as well as to other library directors on OhioLINK, the Ohio Library and Information Network, a consortium of Ohio's college and university libraries and the State Library of Ohio.

The set is an annotated bibliography of published resources from the 18th century to the present day that describe and document women's and girls’ lives during the era of the American Revolution. Volumes one and two contain subjects from broad to narrow. Each of the 53 chapters begin with General Studies and moves to more specific topics.

Examples of the books’ chapters are Women and girls during the Revolutionary era; Women in the family and in society; The religious experiences of American women during the Revolutionary era; and Women and the American economy. Volume three is an alphabetical listing of entries by author, editor or title.

In accepting the DAR’s donation, Muskingum Library Director Dr. Sheila Ellenberger said, “These books are a unique, in-depth research tool and we are honored to accept this generous donation. Our faculty and students will benefit from this excellent addition to our reference collection. This is a valuable aid to understanding existing literature and illuminating gaps that will encourage future research.”
Dr. Ellenberger also said that there are only 85 other sets of these books available in the United States and Muskingum’s Library now has only the second set in Ohio.

In the photo: Pictured from left to right are Mary Davis, Mary Lou Eagleson, president of the Anna Asbury Stone Chapter of the DAR in Cambridge; Dr. Sheila Ellenberger, Muskingum University’s Henry S. and Katherine W. Evans Director and Distinguished Librarian; and Bernice Litt.

Librarian Nicole Arnold receives OPAL service award

Reference librarian Nicole Arnold received a service award from the Ohio Private Academic Libraries (OPAL), a consortium of 24 private college and university libraries in Ohio.

In presenting the award, OPAL cited Arnold’s work in the development of LibGuides, a system of creating research guides and sharing information, and her management of an OPAL digitization pilot project.  Currently, she is on the group’s Information Literacy Task Force and is chair of the OPAL Users Services Committee.

Arnold joined the staff of the Muskingum Library in 2008.  She earned her bachelor’s degree from Wittenberg University and both her master’s degree and her master of library science degree from Indiana University.    

The OPAL consortium offers more than one million titles and three million individual items to the patrons of 24 Ohio academic libraries. All are also members of OhioLINK, a statewide initiative offering a shared union of database and the reciprocal borrowing of over 46 million items amongst 87 libraries in the state.

Convocation features address by 1975 alumnus Frank Festi, Jr.

Muskingum University held its Convocation on August 28, featuring an address by 1975 alumnus Frank Festi, Jr. 

In his address, Mr. Festi told the students, “A worthy goal for your time at Muskingum is to build a better you so you can build a better world.  This campus has changed, but the bedrock of a Muskingum education has not.  Take advantage of everything this experience has to offer.  Be honest, be positive and believe in yourself.” Read the whole story.

Awards granted for excellence in teaching, scholarship and faculty service at Convocation

At Muskingum University's Convocation, held August 28 on the campus, three faculty members were recognized for excellence in teaching, scholarship and service. The awards were presented by Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. James E. Callaghan. Read the whole story.

Muskingum marks 175th anniversary with 21st century technology

Muskingum’s 175th anniversary was commemorated using some high-tech tools. 

Historic Walking Tour of Muskingum is the university’s first-ever e-book, which allows a virtual walking tour of the campus on any computer, Kindle, smart phone or tablet.  For that download, click here.

Also on the web is MuskieArchivesOnline, which contains images from Muskingum’s rich history.  Thanks to a design by Caleb Eno ’12, a digital media design major, the picture viewer allows for zooming in for a closer look.  Also assisting Caleb was Clint McElfresh ’12.  To see the archives, click here.

Finally, Facebook will provide updates on new information added to the archives.  To “Like” it, click here.

To view more news stories, click on the News Archives button on the left-hand menu of this page.