Fall 2010 Archived News

Shakespearean delight set at UW-La Crosse
“Twelfth Night” to be performed in December

The UW-La Crosse Theatre Arts Department rings in the yuletide season with “Twelfth Night,” William Shakespeare’s wonderfully witty comedy about love and mistaken identity. The play takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3-4 and 9-11, with 2 o’clock matinee performances Sundays Dec. 5 and 12. Performances will be in Toland Theatre in the Center for the Arts, 16th and Vine streets.

The play tells the story of Viola who is washed up on foreign soil after a devastating shipwreck and separated from her twin brother, Sebastian. She dons the disguise of a man and is asked by her employer, the Duke of Illyria, to get eternal admiration of him by an unwed woman. Viola soon finds herself in the midst of a hopelessly confused love triangle and mistaken identity. The play has become one of Shakespeare’s most beloved.

Tickets go on sale at 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 29. The box office is located in the lobby of the Center for the Arts. Tickets are $4 for UW-L students; $10 for other students, senior citizens and children; and $12 for others. For reservations, call the box office at 608.785.8522.

If you go—
What: “Twelfth Night” by William Shakespeare
Who: UW-La Crosse Department of Theatre Arts
Where: Toland Theatre, UW-L Center for the Arts, 16th and Vine streets
When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3-4 and 9-11; 2 p.m. Dec. 5 and 12

ADMISSION: $4 for UW-L students; $10 for other students, senior citizens and children; and $12 for others. For reservations, call the box office at 608.785.8522.

Graduating seniors to show artwork at UW-La Crosse

Students graduating from UW-La Crosse in December will exhibit their artwork before they cross the stage to pick up their diplomas. The bi-annual UW-L Senior Exhibition opens with a reception from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, in the University Art Gallery on the first floor of the UW-L Center for the Arts, 16th and Vine streets. The show runs through Wednesday, Dec. 15.

Students exhibiting in the show include: Cara Henriksen, Bethany LaDue, Keriann Noga, Shawn Olichwier, Ann Peters, Olivia Radke, Bethany Rahn and Emily Wilson.
The exhibit is not only a celebration of the release from the “workload” of acquiring a degree, but also a recognition of the non-traditional lifestyles that many of these artists will pursue. It also acknowledges their attainment of the title “artist” after years of being a “student.”

The students will show the work that has become their signature pieces. Among the mediums presented are: sculpture, metalsmithing, ceramics, graphic arts, painting, printmaking, photography and drawing.

In conjunction with the show, an exhibit titled “Art 160, Books, ” featuring works by the winner of an upper-level art class, will run in the adjacent Study Gallery. Regular gallery hours are noon-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, noon-5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and during Toland Theatre events. Admission is free. The gallery opens for appointments by calling the UW-L Art Department 608.785.8230.

Students graduating from UW-La Crosse in December will exhibit their work early in the month in the University Art Gallery.

If you go—
What: UW-L Senior Exhibition
Who: Graduating Seniors from UW-La Crosse
When: Opens with a reception from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3; runs through Wednesday, Dec. 15. Regular gallery hours are noon-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, noon-5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
Where: University Art Gallery, first floor of the UW-L Center for the Arts, 16th and Vine streets.
Admission: Free.

UW-La Crosse forum on national debt to conclude POSTPONED until after the elections

A Web-based forum designed to share important information about the local effects of the national debt and its effect on economic growth will conclude at UW-La Crosse.
The informational sessions are nonpartisan.
The Concord Coalition and the Wisconsin Fiscal Advisory Council — grassroots, nonpartisan organizations committed to educating the public about the local effects of the national debt crisis and facilitating economic growth — are sponsoring the series of statewide, Web-based forums. National, state and local experts on the national debt crisis will provide information and an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and participate in live discussions.
Forum 3, the final forum of the series, is set for 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26, and will be broadcast in 102 Wing Technology Center. It features state budget experts and a panel of local experts and officials at each host campus. The forum will originate from UW–Madison and is being sponsored by the Wisconsin Fiscal Advisory Council and the Concord Coalition.
Moderators from the Fiscal Advisory Council will be on hand in Green Bay, La Crosse, Oshkosh and Wausau to introduce the program and forward questions to the national panel located in Madison. Members of the Concord Coalition, Fiscal Advisory Council and UW–Madison will be moderating and coordinating the broadcast. UW-L Professor Joe Heim will moderate at the La Crosse site.
For more information, contact UW-L Political Science Professor Joe Heim, 608.785.6640, or Terry Wirkus at wirkus.terr@uwlax.edu.

Swinging Yuletide UW-La Crosse is Dec. 4
Annual concert jazzes up holiday favorites

An upbeat performance of big band and vocal jazz holiday favorites will once again ring in the holiday season at UW-La Crosse. The Great River Big Band will join the UW-L instrumental and vocal jazz ensembles, along with the La Crosse Jazz4tet, for a Swinging Yuletide. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, in Valhalla, Cartwright Center-Gunning Addition. Limited cabaret style is available. An annual visit by Santa Claus is expected during the concert.

This year’s program introduces several new selections including portions of Duke Ellington’s adaptation of the “Nutcracker Suite” and Claude Thornhill’s “Snowfall.” Selections from Kenton’s Christmas collection and new hip arrangements from Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band will also be performed.

Tickets are a suggested donation of $5 for students and $10 for others; or, reserved tickets for $20. Seating is limited; getting tickets early is recommend since the concert typically sells out.

For tickets or more information, contact the UW-L Music Listening Lab in 145 Center for the Arts or at 608.785.8415.

If you go—
What: Swinging Yuletide
Who: Great River Big Band, UW-L instrumental and vocal jazz ensembles, and the La Crosse Jazz4tet
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4
Where: Valhalla, UW-La Crosse Cartwright Center-Gunning Addition
Admission: $20 reserved; general admission is $5 for students and $10 for others.

UWL History Student Symposium-Monday, December 6

You are invited to join the History faculty and students for presentations
by History students currently enrolled in the research seminar, History
490. Please see below for the schedule of presentations. Click here for a printable version.

Choral Union to perform: Concert to include ‘Magnificat” and ‘Harmoniemesse’

The UW-La Crosse Choral Union will sing the “Magnificat” by Canadian composer Imant Raminsh and “Harmoniemesse,” the last major work by Franz Joseph Haydn, for its fall concert. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, at the Cathedral of St. Joseph the Workman, 6th and Main streets, La Crosse.
UW-L music faculty member Soojin Kim Ritterling will be featured mezzo-soprano soloist in the “Magnificat.”
Soloists for the Haydn Mass will include sopranos Nancy Matchett and Linda Zoerb; altos Lin Kaufman and Jane Powell; tenors Jerry Benser, Randy Dart, Karl Greenfield and Eric Kraemer; and baritone Hans Laping.
Choral Union, led by conductor Paul Rusterholz, includes UW-L students, faculty, staff and adult singers from the greater La Crosse area.
Tickets are a suggested donation of $5 for students and $10 for adults. Tickets may be purchased in advance from Choral Union members and will be available at the door.

If you go—
Who: UW-La Crosse Choral Union
What: Concert featuring “Magnificat” by Imant Raminsh and “Harmoniemesse” by Franz Joseph Haydn
When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5
Where: Cathedral of St. Joseph the Workman, 6th and Main streets, La Crosse.
Admission: Suggested donation of $5 for students and $10 for adults. Tickets may be purchased in advance from Choral Union members and will be available at the door.

Downtown exhibit to feature UW-L students’ artwork
‘14 under 30’ at Grand River Station


Image by UW-L student Ellen Danforth that will appear in the Grand River Station Gallery during November		Image by UW-L student Tylor Fischer that will appear in the Grand River Station Gallery during November

Students in a UW-La Crosse art class will exhibit a variety of work on a variety of topics during a show at the Grand River Station Gallery during November. “14 Under 30” will open with a reception from 4-6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5, in the Grand River Station, 314 Jay St., La Crosse. The exhibit runs through Nov. 30.

“14 under 30” includes the work of 14 students under the age of 30. The works are a product of their creative and intellectual inquiry to investigate political, romantic, surrealist, biological, process driven and past memories relating to the artists as individuals, says Assistant Professor of Art Binod Shrestha, instructor of the class exhibiting its work.

“The change from childhood into adulthood and the realization of that change in the world and themselves are driving aspects of their work,” explains Shrestha. “Through these different mediums each student focuses on different aspects of life that they find most interesting to them.”

The artists include painters, sculptors, printmakers and photographers. They are: Liz Bowman, Ellen Danforth, Tylor Fischer, Sarah Higley, Amy Keel, Mark Kelly, Bethany LaDue, Brittany Luecke, Keriann Noga, Jennie Petersen, Jennie Thorson, Sierra Tiegs, Ali Wesner and Tim Znidarsich.

Admission is free. Regular gallery hours are 4-6 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays or by appointment by calling 715.305.9262. The gallery will be closed for Thanksgiving, Nov. 24-26

If you go—
What: “14 Under 30” art exhibition
Who: 14 UW-La Crosse students under the age of 30.
When: Nov. 5-30. Regular gallery hours are 4-6 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays.
Where: Grand River Station, 314 Jay St
Admission: Free

"Opposites: Repulsion or Attraction? A Look at the Shift in the Relationship between the Self and the Other" - A Presentation by Senior Amanda Groshek

Amanda Groshek, a Senior English Major, will present a paper developed from her independent research project, "Opposites: Repulsion or Attraction? A Look at the Shift in the Relationship between the Self and the Other" from 2:30-3:30 pm, Friday, November 19, in 113 Wimberly Hall.

Using Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and the movie The Rocky Horror Picture Show, she will look at the shift from repulsion to desire of the "other" as it reflects the transition from a humanist to a possible "post-human" society. The event is free and open to the public. To arrange for disability accommodations, contact english@uwlax.edu or call 785.8295. For more information, visit http://rhetor.blogs.com/english.

TV telethon to support Coulee Region Humane Society
It’s the 12th year UW-L students will help raise funds

Dogs, cats and other animals at the Coulee Region Humane Society will benefit from an upcoming live TV telethon produced by UW-La Crosse communication studies students.

The 12th annual Coulee Region Humane Society Telethon will air from 7-10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, on KQEG-TV Channel 23, Charter Cable Channel 5, Digital 989 and UW-L campus channel 6. Rick Wilson, KQEG TV-23, and Katie Cerniglia and Kacey Persson, a UW-L communication studies majors, will host the show. Guests during the three-hour event will include owners of pets adopted from the society, pet therapy specialists, dog trainers and society advocates. The phone number to pledge during the telecast is 608.785.8379.

Along with money, donations of towels, sheets, soap, bleach, office and animal supplies or other items that could be used at the humane society are sought. Donations for the society’s general fund may be dropped off at the studio, 205 Wing Technology Center, during the telethon, or arrangements may be made by calling Professor Pat Turner at 608.785.8369. Checks should be made payable to the Coulee Region Humane Society. Monetary donations or goods can also be dropped off at Coulee Region Human Society, 911 Critter Court, Onalaska.
Give-aways during the telethon include: a $600 Mississippi River Rentals vacation package, a $299 guitar from Dave’s Guitar Shop, and a $437 studio session from The Studio on Main.

The telethon originated in 1999 when UW-L student Kristen Lloyd decided to produce a live TV telethon instead of writing a traditional research paper. The student-produced telethon is sponsored by UW-L’s Communication Studies Department and campus TV station WMCM, in conjunction with Charter Communications and KQEG-TV23. Last year’s telethon raised more than $8,000 in money and supplies.

To participate —
What: Coulee Region Humane Society Telethon
When: 7-10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20
Where: Airs on KQEG-TV Channel 23, Charter Cable Channel 5 and Digital 989. Drop off donations during the telethon at 205 Wing Technology Center at UW-La Crosse or call 608.785.8379.

UW-La Crosse Learning Community program sets conference

Hundreds of teachers from throughout Wisconsin will come to UW-La Crosse for a weekend of learning, sharing, networking and celebrating their graduate work. The teachers are students in the ME-PD Learning Community graduate program for teachers and other education professionals. More than 250 teachers will meet Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 13 and 14, in the university’s Cartwright Center for the 13th annual November Conference.

A highlight of the weekend will be the Action Research Fair. Educators interested in participatory research being conducted in classrooms around Wisconsin will visit the fair from 8:30-10:30 am. Sunday in Valhalla. Approximately 60 fourth semester graduate students will present the results of their Participatory Action Research through kiosk presentations and round table discussions as part of a culminating graduation requirement prior to commencement Sunday, Dec. 19. They will join nearly 3,000 other teachers from more than 300 school districts from Wisconsin who have graduated from the ME-PD Learning Community Program since it began in 1997.

The weekend will also include a Saturday morning welcome keynote from Wisconsin State Rep. Jennifer Shilling and a closing keynote on Sunday by Tom Thibodeau, director of the Servant Leadership Graduate Program at Viterbo University.

UW-La Crosse colloquium continues
Presentation to discuss ‘The Nature of Preservation’

The UW-La Crosse Art Department colloquium series on “The Nature of Art” continues with a presentation on “The Nature of Interpretation.”
Four regional artists will be featured in the presentation from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 11, in 102 Wing Technology Center, 1705 State St. Among them: Barbara Kooiman, a La Crosse architectural historian; Andrew J. Maus, executive director of the Minnesota Marine Art Museum in Winona; and Maggie Lee McHugh, co-author, and Vong Lao, illustrator, of the recently published Hmong/English language children’s book, “Ka’s Garden.”

The presentation brings together aspects of preservation: architectural, cultural and ethnic. Three presentations will be followed by a panel discussion. Copies of “Ka’s Garden” will be available for sale before and after the event.
The event is free and open to the public. Wheelchair-accessible parking is available on the west side of the building. General parking is available in Lot C-10 at 15th and Vine Streets.

The final presentations of the series include:
•Feb. 10 — “The Nature of Interpretation”
•April 21 — “The Nature of Environment”
For additional information, contact the department office at 608.785.8230.

If you go—
What: “The Nature of Interpretation”
Who: Barbara Kooiman, Andrew J. Maus, Maggie Lee McHugh and Vong Lao
When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 11
Where: 102 Wing Technology Center, 1705 State St.
Admission: Free and open to the public

UW-L children’s play set
‘Goloshes of Fortune’ on the bill Frederick Theatre

The UW–La Crosse Department of the Theatre Arts season continues with a fun and endearing modern interpretation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, “Goloshes of Fortune.” Performances are 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13, in the Frederick Theatre in Morris Hall, 16th and State streets.

The play, adapted for youth audiences by Elizabeth Wong, is about a pair of yellow rain boots that cause trouble. Chaos ensues from a duo of interfering fairies — Orange and Blue — who try to make the happiness of humanity as easy as putting on a pair of magical galoshes. Initially Orange and Blue disagree on whether the goal is even achievable, let alone a good idea. The dispute prompts a series of hilarious mishaps as the fairies take on the feet of four unsuspecting children who think they know what they want. The production features a break dancing competition, a trip the moon and a lesson in Danish.

Tickets are $4 per person and available only at the door one hour before each performance. The production is best suited for audience members ages 3 and up. For more information, contact the Department of Theatre Arts at 608.785.6701.

If you go—
Who: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Department of Theatre Arts
What: “Goloshes of Fortune,” adapted by Elizabeth Wong
When: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13
Where: Frederick Theatre, UW-La Crosse Morris Hall, 16th and State streets
Admission: $4 per person; available only at the door one hour before each performance

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage month at UW-La Crosse; opening reception is Sept. 16.

Since 1968, the U.S. has observed National Hispanic Heritage month from Sept. 15 to Oct.15. Help celebrate National Hispanic Heritage month by attending events on campus beginning Thursday, Sept. 16. An opening reception runs from 3:30-5 p.m. in the Ward Room in Cartwright Center. Faculty and students of UW-L’s Institute of Latina/Latino and Latin American Studies (ILLAS) and the Latino Students’ Organization (LASO) will make brief remarks. A musical program by UW-L students and a reception will be held following a proclamation by Chancellor Joe Gow. Free hors d’oeuvres will be served.

For details of the month’s events, visit http://www.uwlax.edu/ls/latinamerica/documents/2010_UWL_Hispanic_Heritage_Month.pdf

To find out more about ILLAS and LASO, go to http://www.uwlax.edu/ls/latinamerica/.

Fall advising day for Spanish majors, minors set

The Spanish section of the modern languages department will hold its fall advising day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 3 in Port O' Call, Cartwright Center-Gunning Addition. General college advising and advising for Spanish majors and minors, study abroad advising by Spanish language faculty and peer advising from students who have studied abroad will be available. Several breakout sessions are scheduled throughout the day in various classrooms in Graff Main Hall, including information on:

Careers and domestic internships
Human Rights in Guatemala
Teacher education
J-term program in Alicante, Spain
Bolivian Education Study Tour
Cultural presentations by UW-L Amity interns from Argentina, Colombia and Spain

For a complete list of events and for more information, see www.uwlax.edu/languages/.

UW-La Crosse colloquium to begin - Series to focus on ‘The Nature of Art’

The UW-La Crosse Art Department will hold a colloquium series on “The Nature of Art.” The series opens Thursday, Oct. 14, with “The Nature of Identity.” The presentation features Winona, Minn., Artist Mary Solberg; Beloit, Wis., Artist George Williams; and Onalaska Artist Lisa Ulik. The trio will discuss ways in which identity informs and influences their work. Ulik is a recent M.F.A. graduate of Vermont College and is a UW-L graduate in art education.

The series continues:
Nov. 11 — “The Nature of Preservation”
Feb. 10 — “The Nature of Interpretation”
April 21 — “The Nature of Environment”

All presentations run from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays in 116 Center for the Arts. The programs are free and open to the public. For additional information, contact the department office at 608.785.8230.

If you go—
What: “The Nature of Identity”
Who: Artists Mary Solberg, George Williams and Lisa Ulik
When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 14
Where: Room 116, UW-La Crosse Center for the Arts.
Admission: Free and open to the public

Conference to look at the new world order of girlhood

Major focus:
“Re-Claiming Girlhood: Understanding, Supporting and Taking Action” is the focus of a La Crosse conference Thursday, Oct. 28, at the Lunda Center, Western Technical College, 319 7th St. N., La Crosse.

Background:
The world Wisconsin girls navigate to adulthood seems markedly different than a generation ago. By some measures this “new world” appears to be kinder to girls. For example, girls are enjoying increased educational achievements and declining rates of teen pregnancy.
Concern is mounting, however, about the content and effect of the messages propagated through the rapid expansion of conventional and new media. In advertising, popular music, movies and video, print and the Internet, the central message about girlhood appears to be: “You are valuable only to the extent that you are sexually appealing in appearance, behavior and attitudes.” With over $15 billion spent annually targeting children, the emotional, mental and physical health of girls is seriously undermined by the powerful mediums. The sexualization of girlhood appears to be a predominant cultural norm.
The “Re-Claiming Girlhood” conference seeks to provide tools and strategies to understand and respond to the trend. Sharon Lamb, a psychologist from UMass Boston, member of the American Psychological Association Sexualization of Girls Taskforce, and co-author of Packaging Girlhood (2006) and Packaging Boyhood (2010) will offer two keynote presentations. Lt Governor Barbara Lawton will present on the status of Wisconsin girls.
Workshops exploring the world of girls, their use of media, and girls’ sexual, emotional, and physical development are included. Of special interest are two panels of young women, representing a diverse backgrounds and UW-L’s Awareness through Performance theater group. The target audience is area professionals, educators and others who work with girls in the community.
“Project Girl,” an arts based media literacy program half-day workshop for 7-12th graders, is part of the conference. This coincides with the re-opening of the “Project Girl” exhibit that incorporates area girls’ artwork planned for Oct. 28 at the UW-L Center for the Arts.
The conference is hosted by UW-L Continuing Education and Extension, YWCA of the Coulee Region, New Horizons Shelter and Women’s Center, with assistance from the School District of La Crosse.

Extra event:
The conference is preceded by “Brain Waves,” a free event for middle school students and adults at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 27, at Logan Middle School. MaryAdele Revoy will present a student-focused exploration of dating behavior and feelings utilizing some of the newest brain research.

For more information: See more at: www.uwlax.edu/conted/girlhood
Reporters wanting more information may contact:
Andrea Hansen, UW-L Continuing Education and Extension 608.785.6509
MaryKay Wolf, YWCA of the Coulee Region 608.781.2783
Ann Kappauf, New Horizons Shelter and Women’s Center 608.791.2610

New York City bound: UW-L Vocal Jazz Ensemble invited to perform at Carnegie Hall

Distinguished Concerts International in New York City has invited the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse Vocal Jazz Ensemble to participate in its Vocal Jazz Festival.

The event with Phil Mattson will be held in the Isaac Stern Auditorium at Carnegie Hall Sunday, May 22, 2011.
The Vocal Jazz Ensemble, conducted by UW-L Music Professor Gary Walth, will appear with a solo set and join other outstanding groups to form the Distinguished Concerts Singers International, a mass jazz choir of distinction. Mattson will be the conductor for the performance, as well as serve as clinician for the residency.

Jonathan Griffith, artistic director and principal conductor for DCINY, says the ensemble was invited because of recommendations and its reputation. “The University of Wisconsin–La Crosse Vocal Jazz Ensemble received this invitation because of the quality and high level of musicianship demonstrated by the singers and the exceptional recommendations given by Dr. Walth’s choral colleagues,” explains Griffith. “It is quite an honor just to be invited to perform in Carnegie Hall. These wonderful student musicians not only represent a high quality of music and education, but they also become ambassadors for the entire community. This is an event of extreme pride for everybody and deserving of the community’s recognition and support.”

The singers will spend five days and four nights in New York City to prepare for the concert. The singers will spend approximately 9‐10 hours in rehearsals over the five-day residency. “Not all of the time is spent in rehearsals, since there is so much history and culture to see in New York City,” says Griffith. “However, the performance in Carnegie Hall is the primary purpose for their visit to the city.”

Political debate at UW-La Crosse to feature Third Congressional district candidates

The third in the series of debates at UW-La Crosse will feature candidates for Wisconsin’s Third Congressional District. The debate featuring incumbent Congressman Ron Kind, Republican challenger State Sen. Dan Kapanke and Independent candidate Michael Krsiean will be held from 7-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26, in Port O’ Call, Cartwright Center-Gunning Addition.

The debate will be taped by WXOW TV-19 and rebroadcast at a later date. The debate will also be telecast on the UW-L cable station. Seating is limited; those planning to attend should arrive early. Doors to Port O’ Call will open at 6 p.m.

The event is co-sponsored by the Campus Joint Legislative Relations committee, the UW-L Student Association, the League of Women Voters, the La Crosse Tribune, WXOW-TV 19, and the UW-L Political Science/Public Administration Department.

For more information, contact Professor Joe Heim at 608.785.6640 or heim.jose@uwlax.edu.

A second chance for Judas
UW-L play looks at the world’s most infamous sinner

The University of Wisconsin—La Crosse Department of Theatre Arts will open its 2010-11 season with a play that questions one of Christianity’s most notorious crimes.

“The Last Days of Judas Iscariot” by Stephen Adly Guirgis runs Oct. 15-16 and 21-23 at 7:30 p.m., with matinee performances Sundays, Oct. 17 and 24, at 2 p.m. in Toland Theatre in the Center for the Arts, 16th and Vine streets. A post-show discussion is scheduled Thursday, Oct. 21, immediately following the performance.

Does the world’s most notable bad guy deserve a chance at redemption? This clever, provocative and impertinent play re-examines the tale of Judas Iscariot, infamous for his betrayal of Jesus Christ. Fittingly set in a corner of Purgatory called Hope, a writ from God sends a trial for Judas’s salvation into motion, argued by a pandering prosecutor and a demanding defense attorney. A comically chaotic court case ensues, highlighted by testimonies from familiar figures such as a not-so-saintly Mother Teresa and a smooth-talking Satan. Fraught with witty and often racy repartee and laced with poignant anecdotes, the play leads to a stunning, heartbreaking conclusion that tests notions about the meaning of forgiveness.

The Last Days of Judas Iscariot contains strong language and is recommended for mature audiences only. Tickets go on sale at 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 11. Tickets are $4 for UW-L students, $10 for other students and senior citizens, and $12 for others. For reservations, call the box office at 608.785.8522.

If you go—
What: “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”
When: Oct. 15-16 and 21-23 at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, Oct. 17 and 24, at 2 p.m.
Where: Toland Theatre, UW-L Center for the Arts
Admission: $4 for UW-L students, $10 for other students and senior citizens, and $12 for others.

UW-La Crosse trio release Hmong/English bilingual children's book
Pre-release party set for Sept. 23


Photo from left, Maggie McHugh, Student Support Services; Bee Lo, Modern Languages; and UW-L student Vong Lao.

Three alumni from UW-L collaborated to produce and release a bilingual children's book in Hmong and English, "Ka’s Garden: A Bilingual Children’s Book."

UW-L master's student Maggie Lee McHugh, Student Support Services, wrote the book in English. Dr. Bee Lo, '92, Modern Languages, wrote the book in Hmong. And UW-L master's student Vong Lao illustrated the book.

“Ka’s Garden tells the story of a young girl’s first garden in Laos. Through the experience, Ka learns the value of growing a garden," explains McHugh, who created Ka and the story of her garden. "She also learns respect for nature and the interconnectedness of the earth, animals and humans."

On a larger scale, the book celebrates the Hmong way of living in harmony with nature, says McHugh. "The story teaches patience, gratitude, and the importance of sharing. Ka’s Garden is a place where the earth, plants, animals, and people live together in balance and harmony,” she notes

Meet the authors and illustrator at the pre-release launch of the children’s book from 4:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 23, in the Cleary Alumni & Friends Center.

The celebration will feature readings of Ka’s Garden in both English and Hmong, along with a performance by traditional Hmong dancers and musicians. There will also be educational stations for parents, children and teachers.

Find out more about the book at http://uhpublishing.com/ka01.html.

Side bar:

Getting more bang for your "book"
Project begins with grant money; funds raised will help finance UW-L scholarship

The authors of a book about a young girl growing a garden in Laos hope the story not only educates, but also raises money for a UW-L Scholarship.

The funding for "Ka’s Garden: A Bilingual Children’s Book" began with a $1,000 UW-L Small Foundation Grant received in spring 2009. Maggie McHugh received a Research, Service, and Educational Leadership grant. UW-L students Pa Houa Vang and Ya Cha Thao received an Undergraduate Research Grant to do the research for the book on Hmong culture, gardening practices and language.

The group originally planned to self publish and continued developing the book using grant money. In the grant application, the group members said they would give a portion of the proceeds raised from the book to a scholarship for a Hmong student attending UW-L.

In December 2009, McHugh met with publishers at Universal Human Publishing (UHP) to negotiate terms. The publishers were enthusiastic about publishing a book that would help fund the scholarship, McHugh says.

Along with funds collected from book sales, the group will hold a raffle with traditional Hmong story/flower cloths known as “paj ntaub” to help finance the scholarship.

Find out more about the UW-L Foundation and giving and scholarship opportunities at http://www.foundation.uwlax.edu/home.html.

UW-La Crosse to host forum on national debt
Live broadcasts will feature national, state experts and local officials

UW-La Crosse has been selected as one of six UW System campuses to host a series of three public information meetings being organized by local citizens, with funding and assistance from the nationally regarded Concord Coalition.

The three free Web-based forums are designed to share important information about the local effects of the national debt and its effect on economic growth. The informational sessions are nonpartisan.
Along with UW-L, the forums will be held at five other UW campuses: UW–Green Bay; UW–Madison; UW–Marathon; UW–Milwaukee; and UW–Oshkosh.

The first forum runs from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 28, in 102 Wing Technology Center. Originating live from Washington, D.C., the session will feature:

•Alice Rivlin, budget director under President Clinton and now at the Brookings Institute
•Brian Riedl, Grover Herman Fellow in Federal Budgetary Affairs at the Heritage Foundation
•Robert Bixby, executive director of the Concord Coalition

Other sessions include:

• Tuesday, Oct. 12 (Time to be announced), featuring Rep. Paul Ryan and others from the President’s bipartisan National Commission on fiscal Responsibility and Reform and originating live from UW–Milwaukee
•Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2010 – 6-8 p.m., featuring state budget experts originating live from UW–Madison and a panel of local experts and officials at each host campus.

The forums will be Webcast and moderated either by a Wisconsin organizer or a representative from the Concord Coalition. Audience questions will be forwarded to the experts who will respond live via the Internet to the campus audiences. UW-L Professor Joe Heim will moderate at the La Crosse site.

“Although politicians this fall are talking a great deal about the current federal deficit, the real problems we face are the huge deficits that are projected a few years down the road — long after the economy has fully recovered from its current difficulties and our military commitments in Afghanistan and Iraq have been scaled back,” said Robert L. Bixby, executive director of the Concord Coalition and member of the President’s National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform. “Fortunately, the country has options that could put it on a more sustainable course. This series of forums is a convenient way to help local communities attempt to solve the national debt crisis and share your concerns and ideas during this crucial conversation.”

The forums represent the Concord Coalition’s third informational outreach initiative in Wisconsin. The coalition was founded in the early 1990s by Republican U.S. Sen Warren Rudman and Democratic U.S. Sen. Paul Tsongas who came to Milwaukee in 2007 on one of 15 national stops on a Fiscal Wake-Up Tour. Between 2008-09, the organizations convened a series of public meetings in Milwaukee and helped organize a local Milwaukee Area Fiscal Advisory Council which, in turn, produced a report shared with Wisconsin’s congressional delegation and featured at a major press event in Washington, D.C., in December 2009.

Choral ensembles to perform Tuesday, October 19

Four UW-La Crosse choral ensembles will give their first performance of the 2010-11 concert season. The UW-L Vocal Jazz Ensemble I & II, Männerchor and Concert Choir will perform at the annual Fall Choral Concert at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 19, in Annett Recital Hall in the Center for the Arts. The concert will begin with four jazz selections sung by UW-L Vocal Jazz Ensemble I and Vocal Jazz Ensemble II, making their debut performance.

The 35-voice Männerchor will then perform five selections written exclusively for male choruses including “What A Game!” from the musical “Ragtime” and conductor Gary Walth’s setting of the text “To Everything There is a Season.”

After a brief intermission, the Concert Choir will present choral works by Carol Orff, Giovanni da Palestrina and Robert Schumann. The featured work of the concert is “Twa Tanbou” (Three Drums) written by Haitian composer Sydney Guillaume in 2008. The concert will end with a rousing arrangement of the spiritual “Nothin’ Gonna Stumble My Feet.”

This concert is free and open to the public.

If you go—
What: Concert
Who: Four UW-La Crosse choral ensembles
When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 19
Where: Annett Recital Hall, UW-L Center for the Arts.
Admission: Free and open to the public.

Political debates planned at UW-La Crosse
Events begin with candidates from the 94th district

The first in a series of fall political campaign debates at UW-La Crosse is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 5.
The debate will feature candidates for the State Assembly in the 94th district: Incumbent Republican Mike Huebsch and Democratic Challenger Cheryl Hancock. This state legislative district covers all of La Crosse county except for the City of La Crosse and parts of Shelby, and parts of Monroe County. The debate is set from 7-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 5, in Port O’ Call, Cartwright Center-Gunning Addition. The event is open to the public.

This debate will be followed by other legislative debates on succeeding Tuesdays until the election in November. Among debates planned are the candidates for the Assembly 95th district, the 96th Assembly district, and the Third Wisconsin Congressional District. Additionally, a date has been reserved for candidates running for Wisconsin governor to debate. Candidates for that race have yet to commit.

The events are co-sponsored by the Campus Joint Legislative Relations committee, the UW-L Student Association, the League of Women Voters, the La Crosse Tribune, WXOW-TV 19, and the UW-L Political Science/Public Administration Department.

For more information, contact Professor Joe Heim at 608.785.6640 or heim.jose@uwlax.edu.

International conference on human rights planned in La Crosse

An international conference in La Crosse will take an in-depth look at how global human rights have changed since the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

“We the People: An International Conference of Human Rights” Oct. 7-9 will probe a number of themes of the declaration. Among them:

• Torture; slavery
• Equity under the law
• Arbitrary arrest
• Right to freedom of movement and residence; thought, conscience and religion
• Peaceful assembly.

Keynote speakers include:

• Marjorie Agosin, award-winning Chilean poet and human rights activist.
• Sara Roy, research scholar in Middle Eastern Studies and an author of four books on Israel and Palestine.
• Bob Peterson, founding editor of Rethinking Schools.

The conference is geared toward academics; teachers; curriculum directors; policy makers; members of business and religious communities; and others.The conference is sponsored by UW-La Crosse, along with Viterbo University and the Wisconsin Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies, with support from UW System and La Crosse Community Foundation grants.
To register or for more information, contact UW-L Continuing Education and Extension at: 608.785.6506 or www.uwlax.edu/conted/humanrights.

‘Project Girl’ exhibit at the University Art Gallery
Show looks at media’s message about females

A traveling, national exhibit aimed to get people thinking about how today’s advertising and entertainment impacts females is coming to UW-La Crosse. The “Project Girl” exhibition opens from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Friday, May 14, with a reception and presentation by Kelly Parks Snider and Jane Bartell in the University Art Gallery, first floor of the UW-L Center for the Arts. The event will have a cash bar and hors d'oeuvres. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public.

ProjectGirl.org started in 2004 with a series of art-based workshops that became to basis for the traveling multi-medium Project Girl Art Exhibition, and multi-part Project Girl media literacy teaching curriculum. Created by Snider, a visual artist, and Bartell, a video producer, ProjectGirl.org has evolved into a nationally touring visual arts exhibition and series of art-based events, workshops, and multi-media educational materials designed to build girl communities supporting resistance to harmful commercial messages. Girls, educators, parents, youth and church groups continue to attend and participate in Project Girl workshops and exhibitions nationally.

Locally, UW-L faculty and staff, UW-L Young Scholars participants and the Girl Scouts have joined teachers in La Crosse, Cashton, Black River Falls, Onalaska, West Salem to take part in Project Girl. The work created by local girls, boys and adults will be featured in a second exhibition at the University Art Gallery from Oct. 22-Nov. 20. That exhibition will highlight the Wisconsin Art Educator’s Association Conference in La Crosse Oct. 28 and 29. The exhibit will feature works created by local middle school girls, boys, college students and adults who have participated in Project Girl.

The national exhibit runs at UW-L through Saturday, Oct. 9. Summer Gallery hours are noon-4 p.m. weekdays. Admission is free. For more information contact the UW-L Art Department at 608.785.8230 or visit http://www.projectgirl.org or http://www.uwlax.edu/art

Zen paintings featured during summer too
Throughout the summer UW-L’s Study Gallery, adjacent to the University Art Gallery, will feature Zen artwork by student artist Cedarose Siemon. The show is an artistic and meditative offering intended to share Eastern methodologies and perspectives on art and life with the viewers. Siemon’s exploration of how meditation and art contribute to each other was compiled as part of a UW-L grant. After a week of intensive meditation in silence along with teachings and Zen rituals, Siemon was taught to incorporate meditation into the creation of classical and free Zen painting. Siemon received training in meditation and Zen painting from Japanese Zen painter and teacher Kazuaki Tanahashi at the Upaya Zen Center in Santa Fe, N.M.

	“Live Life Freely” is one of the works by Kelly Parks Snider featured in the Project Girl Exhibition at UW-La Crosse this summer.
	“Natural Woman” is one of the works by Kelly Parks Snider featured in the Project Girl Exhibition at UW-La Crosse this summer.
	“Respect Me” is one of the works by Kelly Parks Snider featured in the Project Girl Exhibition at UW-La Crosse this summer.
	UW-L student artist Cedaros Siemon’s Zen paintings will be featured in the UW-L Study Gallery this summer.

If you go—
What: Project Girl Exhibition
When: May 14-Oct. 9. Summer Gallery hours are noon-4 p.m. weekdays.
Where: University Art Gallery, UW-La Crosse Center for the Arts.
Admission: Free.

Top students and faculty honored at the 9th annual Evening of Excellence

Four graduate students, 27 undergraduate students, and 10 faculty and staff were recognized at the April 14 Evening of Excellence award ceremony. Patricia Michalek was also acknowledged as the recipient of the John E. Magerus Award for Outstanding Senior. The College of Liberal Studies (CLS) honors the achievements of faculty, staff and students from all 14 of its departments. CLS has 56 undergraduate and five graduate programs. These programs include subjects in the arts and communication, education, social sciences, humanities and interdisciplinary programs.

Classified Staff Recognition of Excellence Awards
Christine Reed (Music) joined the Department of Music in July 2003. She assists with special events not included in her job description. For the past four years,Christine was a member of the Program Associate Professional Development (PAPD) Mentoring Committee where she serves as a mentor to the new academic associates in the Center for the Arts. Christine also served on a committee with Dr. Betsy Morgan and Dr. Bruce May in developing the UW-L E-Portfolio.

Johnson Mary Johnson (Sociology/Archeology) has been in the Sociology/Archaeology department for four years. Johnson works closely with 17 full-time faculty members, about 300 majors, and several MVAC staff members. Johnson continued to do all this work during her long-term rehabilitation after surgery on her ankle. Johnson treats students with respect and kindness and goes out of her way to ensure they have the knowledge and skills to succeed.

Academic Staff Recognition of Excellence Awards
Teaching
Natalia Roberts (Modern Languages) has been teaching Russian with the UW-System Collaborative Languages Program (CLP) since 2005. Roberts teaches first and second year Russian at UW-L while teaching the course electronically at UW-Oshkosh and Stevens Point and is always looking to expand her teaching repertoire. Roberts receives high SEI scores at all three campuses. She also has given presentations at a variety conferences on creative technology applications.

Research/Scholarship/Creative Activity
Susan Hughes (Educational Studies) is an instructor for the Master of Education-Professional Development Learning Community (ME-PD). Hughes is the lead facilitator of the first hybrid (half classroom, half online) learning community program for ME-PD. She is also an active participant in the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) conferences, Western Wisconsin Educators (WWED) events, and the first annual HOPE Foundation International Conference (Harnessing Optimism and Potential through Education).

Service
Dr. Jim Putz (Communication Studies) has been the Basic Course Director of CST 110 for over a decade. For nearly two years, he was involved in intensive research, writing, and training needed to switch the department’s public speaking course into a hybrid orientation to the Communication discipline. Putz also co-chaired an interdisciplinary study group to revise the required CST 110 information literacy session. Because of his efforts, librarians honored Putz with the 2009 Eugene W. Murphy Library Special Recognition Award.

Junior Faculty Recognition of Excellence Awards
Teaching
Dr. Christine Hippert (Sociology/Archeology) started teaching for the Sociology/Archeology department Fall 2007. Hippert maintains high SEI score averages (4.5 out of 5 for 130 students per semester). Since being hired, the Anthropology Minor enrollment is steadily increasing due to her dedication and innovation in the classroom. Hippert is also a member of various Community Health Education graduate student thesis committees. Having a Masters in Public Health, she finds this experience beneficial to reach out across UW-L colleges.

Research/Scholarship/Creative Activity
Dr. Tony Docan-Morgan (Communication Studies) is finishing his second year in the Communication Studies Department. Along with receiving some of the highest SEI scores in the department, Docan-Morgan maintains a high record of scholastic publications. He had one publication in 2008, six in 2009, and has four more articles ready for publication. Docan-Morgan recently facilitated a workshop based on his research at a UW-Madison teaching event. In addition, he recently received a grant to study and improve how undergraduate students select and narrow research topics. On a personal note, he and his wife, Sara, are expecting twins.

Dr. Marti Lybeck (History) earned international recognition for contributing research to her field after two short years at UW-L. Lybeck is on the cutting edge of historical scholarship, studying the theoretical concerns of previously neglected and diverse historical groups. Yale University invited Lybeck to speak about women’s sexuality in early 20th century Germany at a featured presentation. Lybeck also earned the SUNY best dissertation of the year in Queer Studies. SUNY Press chose her dissertation in its annual manuscript competition and awarded her a book contract.

Service
Dr. Natalie Eschenbaum (English)has been teaching classes in the English Department for the past two years. Eschenbaum is a strong member of the English Department literature committee. She also meets regularly to discuss approaches to teaching College Writing in the new Composition Committee. Eschenbaum is the co-advisor for the English Club and UW-L Chapter of the National English Honors Society and is involved in the Student Association’s 2009-10 Academic Affairs Committee.

Dr. Jean Janecki (Modern Languages) is finishing her fourth year as a Spanish instructor at UW-L. She is involved as the Spanish Club advisor, chair of the technology committee, and the activities committee. Janecki also volunteered her time for the 2008-09 search and screen committee for a new position and development of study abroad opportunities. Janecki remains active throughout the university. She is active with the Hispanic Heritage Month, and participated in the Joint Technology Committee for the last three years.

Undergraduate Student Excellence
Kelsey Ajango (History) is a double major in Archaeological Studies and History with a regional emphasis in the Ancient and Medieval World. Her academic interests concern the ancient Near East and the Classical World. Ajango achieved intermediate language skills in four languages: French, Japanese, Spanish, and Akkadian. She is currently finishing her History Research Seminar entitled “A Study of the Cultural and Societal Significance of Lapis Lazuli,” and plans to attend graduate school in the future.

Carrie Bero (Women’s Studies) is a double major in Spanish and Women’s Studies. She served as President of the Women’s Studies Student Association, two-time producer of the Vagina Monologues, intern for the Campus Climate and Violence Prevention offices, and performer for Awareness Through Performance. Bero made the most impact in stimulating student support for the UW-L Violence Prevention Office, she uses her organizational skills to bring students to action on important issues.

Zoe Browne (Art) is an Art Education major. She willingly spends her spare time in the shop perfecting her art. Much of her artwork masterfully expresses the recent loss and illness of her father. As a future art educator, she seizes every opportunity to volunteer. So far, Browne served as President for the UW-L National Art Education Association, Boys and Girls Club volunteer, and Project Girl Workshop participant. Browne is currently student teaching at Logan Middle School.

Tyler Burkhart (Political Science & Public Administration) is a double major in Political Science and Public Administration with minors in Mathematics and Philosophy. Outside of his classroom leadership, Burkhart remains involved in a variety of extracurricular activities. He was an intern for the City of Onalaska, a Resident Assistant, President for National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH), and a tour guide (Vanguard) for the Admissions Office. He is also the Director of City Affairs for the UW-L Student Association.

Soren Cesar (Psychology) is a Psychology major with a minor in Political Science. He secured a grant from UW-Madison to explore perceptions, motivations, and behaviors related to bottled water usage on-campus. Cesar served as the President of the UW-L Ultimate Frisbee Club and Human Resources Coordinator with Hegenbarth Food Group. He is also a member of Golden Key and Psi Chi, the National Honor Society of Psychology.

Cassie Deacon (Psychology) is a double major in Psychology and Women’s Studies. She presented an analysis of race, class, gender, and sexual orientation as factors for victims of domestic violence at the American Multicultural Student Leadership Conference in 2009. Deacon volunteered and interned at the UW-L Violence Prevention Office and Houston County Women’s Resource Center. On campus, she is active in ALANA (Asian, Latina, African, Native American) Women’s Organization, and is a Diversity Organization Coalition Representative.

Kyle Emmert (Modern Languages) is an Early Childhood through Middle Childhood Education major with a minor in Spanish. As a Spanish student, he is involved in Delta Sigma Pi, the Spanish National Honor Society. Spanish professors note Emmert’s curiosity, common sense, and critical thinking, and depend on him to present thoughtful answers in class. Emmert is involved as a tutor for the UW-L Pre-College Program and a Teacher’s Aide. Emmert also coaches soccer bilingually to multicultural and economically challenged students.

Tiffany Entringer (Psychology) is a Psychology major with a minor in Criminal Justice. She served as a Legal Intern for the La Crosse Public Defender’s Office and teaching assistant for PSY 100. Along with Lee Starck, Tiffany received an Undergraduate Research Grant for a project which won a Midwestern research award. Entringer and Starck will present their research at UW-L, the annual conference of the Midwestern Psychology Association, and the National Conference of Undergraduate Research.

Jonathan Flancher (Military Science) is a student majoring in Finance and Economics with a minor in Military Science. Flancher served on the Wisconsin National Guard for nearly a year and was Assistant Deputy for the Racine County Sheriff’s Department. Flancher is a key leader in the UW-L Army ROTC program, and will develop his military experience further by serving on active duty for the United States Army.

Kyra Kaercher (Sociology/Archaeology) is an Archaeological Studies major with a minor in Anthropology and a certificate in French Studies. She studied a collection of Wisconsin pottery and presented her findings at the 2009 Midwest Archaeology Conference. She also conducted research examining trade interaction between city-states in the Middle East. Her findings were presented at a variety of conferences, including the National Conference of Undergraduate Research. Kaercher also incorporates international travel; she traveled to Bolivia, Egypt, and Syria.

Nicholas Knoblock (Philosophy) is a Philosophy major with a minor in Creative Writing. For an astounding eight semesters, Knoblock served as a tutor for the Introduction to Logic course. He was also Introduction to Philosophy Teaching Assistant for both Dr. Ross and Dr. Rivera. Knoblock presented his academic papers at NCUR in 2009 and again in 2010. Knoblock plans to pursue eventual doctoral studies in Critical Theory or Literatry Criticism to combine his interests in Philosophy and Creative Writing.

Matt Landi (Political Science & Public Administration) is a triple major in Political Science, Philosophy, and Public Administration with a minor in Environmental Science. Despite his academic commitments, he remained involved through writing for The Racquet, volunteering for presidential campaigns, serving on the Executive Board for the La Crosse County Democratic Party, participating in Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity, and chairing UW-L Student Association committees. Landi also received many awards for his outstanding service to the community.

Rachel Lange (Communication Studies) is a Communication Studies major with a minor in Sociology. Through her role as President of Lambda Pi Eta (The National Communication Honors Society), she further developed her leadership and organization skills; she comes to meetings with great ideas and makes them a reality. Lange is an intern for the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra and consistently goes above and beyond the job description.

Allison Lefeber (Modern Languages) is studying Spanish and Elementary Education and has a minor in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Lefeber worked with staff at the ESL Institute for over two years. She taught pronunciation labs, tutored students, proctored exams, and helped with new student orientation. Lefeber studied abroad in Valladolid, Spain and is now student teaching first grade Spanish at Northwoods International Elementary School.

Lynn Lodahl (Political Science & Public Administration) is a double major in Political Science and Public Administration. Lodahl got involved on campus in a variety of ways through multiple leadership positions with the UW-L Student Association, a performer in Awareness Through Performance, director of the Vagina Monologues, and a variety of clubs and academic committees. She also served as an intern with the State Public Defender’s office in Wausau, Wisconsin.

Donnie Mezera (Theatre) is a Theatre Performance major with a minor in Theatre Design/Technical Theatre. Mezera is always willing to go the extra mile to serve the Theatre Department. His strong work-ethic is paired with a positive and easygoing attitude. Mezera remains actively involved with the Boy Scouts, even after earning Eagle Stout status. Mezera is also an active musician for the Department of Music; he is the Drumline section leader for the Screaming Eagles Marching Band.

Allyson Obermeier (History) is a History major with a minor in Anthropology. She received the Frederick and Katherine Davies Scholarship, which recognizes one exceptional History student per year. Obermeier also received the Genie Award for Outstanding Work at Murphy Library, where she was a student worker. She also worked as a Page at the Marshfield Public Library. Obermeier plans to attend graduate school next year in preparation for a career in Library Science.

Sarah Palzer (Communication Studies) is a Communication Studies student with a minor in Recreation Management. Her paper, entitled “Communicating Adulthood: A Qualitative Study of Home-Leaving and Relational Dialectics in the Parent-Child Relationship,” was honored at the 2010 Undergraduate Honors Research Conference in Cincinnati, Ohio. Palzer also serves as a Conference Assistant for this conference. As an undergraduate, Palzer completed three internships with the YMCA. She also gained experience as a Resident Assistant and Front Desk Coordinator.

Colin Pierson (Sociology/Archaeology) is a Sociology student with a minor in Political Science. One of his projects is an ethnography of bureaucratic structure, and the other examines cyber-bullying. To complete his ethnographic project, Pierson used his experiences as an intern at the La Crosse County Health and Human Services. Pierson currently serves as teaching assistant for Dr. Enilda Delgado for her Social Research I class.

Jonathan Ringdahl (Psychology) is a Psychology major with a minor in Sociology. He provided leadership and service as president of Psi Chi and Psych Club and founder of the UW-L Fishing Club. Ringdahl remained active in service activities such as the Alcohol Task Force, Neighbor’s Day, and Operation Riverwatch. Ringdahl also served as a tutor and is currently Child Services and Event Planning Intern at Family Resources in La Crosse.

Gregory Roskos (Communication Studies) is a Communication Studies major with a minor in Environmental Studies. His excellence was first observed when working with several Communication Studies faculty members in a hiring committee. As a member of this committee, Roskos attended a national communication conference to find two new faculty members. Because of his efforts, Roskos will serve as the Communication Honors Society President for the 2010-2011 school year. Roskos also volunteers at the Myrick Hixon Eco Park.

Kate Slisz (Sociology/Archaeology) is a double major in Sociology and Communication Studies. Slisz is currently working on a cross-cultural quantitative research project. Slisz is also heavily involved in Residence Life; she served as New Student Orientation Assistant, Resident Assistant, Conference Assistant, and Hate Response Liason. Slisz also has extensive international experience; she will complete a six-week internship in Tanzania this summer.

Lee Starck (Psychology) is a Psychology major with a minor in Child and Youth Care Emphasis. Along with Tiffany Ettringer, Starck received an Undergraduate Research Grant for a project which earned a Midwestern research award. Entringer and Starck will present their research at UW-L, the annual conference of the Midwestern Psychology Association, and the National Conference of Undergraduate Research. Starck served as Direct Service Provider for a A Brighter Living Experience (A.B.L.E. Inc.), an Intern for LaCrossroads Charter School, and a YMCA Camp Counselor.

Sarah Swiggum (English) is an English major with an emphasis in Writing and Rhetoric. Swiggum puts her acquired language skills to practical use through her many related activities. She serves as News Editor for The Racquet where she supervises the work of the section writers and two other editors. Swiggum also writes news stories for University Communications. Many of her articles appear in the Campus Connection and various news releases. She also served as a writing intern for Travel Organization Networking Exchange, Inc.

Shaylae Szotkowski (Music) is a Choral and General Music Education major with a minor in Spanish. Szotkowski was a student conductor for the UW-L Women’s Chorus and Concert Choir, and is a sectional leader for the UW-L Chamber Choir. In March, she represented Wisconsin in the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Young Artist Competition in New Mexico. Szotkowski is also active in American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) and the National Association for Music Education (MENC).

Christine Werner (Modern Languages) is a student studying German with a Business Concentration and a minor in International Business. Werner spent an entire academic year in Oldenburg, Germany to fully learn the German language and culture. In fact, she hosted and guided a group of Jazz students from Frankfurt during a Fall 2008 visit. Outside of class, Werner remained active in Residence Life. She served as front desk worker in two residence halls and was the Reuter Administrative Assistant.

Connie Woxland (English) is majoring in English Literature with a minor in History. Despite chronic health issues and the need to work long hours, she remains involved in her academics and extracurricular activities. In fact, she is active in the English Honors Society (Sigma Tau Delta). Woxland presented one of her essays at a conference for Sigma Tau Delta. She is currently working on an independent research project on the work of Czech postmodern author Milan Kundera.

CLS Graduate Student Excellence
Kelly Arps (Masters of Education-Professional Development
Janesville Learning Community)

Stephanie Gilliland (Masters of Education-Professional
Development)

Lisa Tlougan (Education Specialist – School Psychology)

Kristin Van Vleet (Student Affairs Administration)

John E. Magerus Award for Outstanding Graduating Senior
Patricia Stowell Michalek is an English Education student with a minor in Psychology. During her time at UW-L, she was a peer tutor for the ENG 050 developmental writing course. She brought complex understanding and application of composition theory and pedagogy into her interactions with students. Dr. Virginia Crank asked her to serve as Assistant Director for the UW-L Writing Center. As Assistant Director, Michaleck initiated programs, developed publicity, and helped design the new Writing Center space in Murphy Library. In addition to a part-time off campus job, full class load, and middle school coaching responsibilities, Michaelek was responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the Writing Center. She blossomed into a confident and thoughtful scholar who is just beginning to realize her intellectual potential.

Lessons from the First Year of UWL Eagle Mentoring Program: Strategies to improve Minority Student Retention and Success

Presenters: Víctor M. Macías-González, History Department, UW-L, and Elise LaRose, Associate Dean of the College, The University of Chicago

Monday, Aug. 30th, 2-3:30 PM, Ward Room, Cartwright Center

This presentation and workshop will present faculty with an opportunity to learn about the “Sophomore Slump” and how it negatively impacts minority student success. Drawing on the findings of the UWL College of Liberal Studies’ Eagle Mentoring Program, a minority retention program for sophomore students funded by the University of Wisconsin System’s Closing the Achievement Gap: Promoting Institutional Change to Foster Access and Excellence for Historically Underrepresented Populations, this presentation will present strategies and tools to:

1. Improve departmental outreach to multicultural student populations

2. Prepare advisors for work with sophomores

3. Use the EMP Student Checklist to deliver information about study skills and learning strategies, guidelines for exploring and strengthening skills in the major and enrichment opportunities, as well as suggestions for career preparation and community and involvement activities, and ideas for personal growth and exploration.

4. How to empower sophomore students academically through discipline-specific Writing Workshop

Dean LaRose will also present an overview of the Committee on Institutional Cooperation's Summer Research Opportunity programs and other pipeline programs for minority students in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. LaRose is a veteran of TRIO and summer enrichment programs at the University of Chicago, where she has directed the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Summer Research Training Program (2003-present), The University of Chicago Collegiate Mentoring Program (2003-2009). She is the external evaluator of the Eagle Mentoring Program.

Refreshments will be served. Please register here: https://uwlacrosse.qualtrics.com/SE?SID=SV_e99kY4NxSufZxRy

If you have questions about the workshop please contact Victor Macías-González, macias.vict@uwlax.edu, 785-8349.

Sponsored by the Eagle Mentoring Program

Encore performances of 'Rent' are UW-La Crosse scholarship fundraisers

The University of Wisconsin–La Crosse Theatre Arts Department will present encore performances of Jonathan Larson’s Pulitzer-Prize-winning musical "Rent" to raise money for scholarships.

Based loosely on Puccini’s opera "La Boheme," "Rent" chronicles a year in the life of seven friends trying to survive in New York City’s East Village. Mimi, Roger, Angel and Collins struggle with the physical and emotional hardships of AIDS. Aspiring filmmaker Mark tries to capture “reality” for his personal documentary about life in New York City. Maureen uses performance art to cope with her infidelity, while her partner, Joanne, questions whether their relationship is worth the effort.

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 11, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 12, in Toland Theatre in the Center for the Arts, 16th and Vine streets.

Tickets for "Rent" go on sale at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 7, and are $10 for UW-L students, $15 for seniors and other students and $20 for others. Purchase tickets at the box office in the lobby of the Center for the Arts or call 608.785.8522 for reservations. Ticket sales will support UW-L theatre student scholarships. These are general seating performances but tickets are required for admission.

FAST FACTS
Who: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Theatre Arts Department
What: "Rent" (encore performances/scholarship fundraisers)
Where: Toland Theatre, UW-La Crosse Center for the Arts, 16th and Vine streets
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 1 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 12

TICKETS ON SALE
1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 7
$10 for UW-L students
$15 for other students and senior citizens
$20 for others
General seating
For reservations call 608.785.8522

Cecilia Manrique Presents at Golden Key International Honor Society Summit

goldenkey

Cecilia G. Manrique, Professor and Chair of the Political Science/Public Administration Department completed the first year of her second three year term as President of the International Leadership Council of the Golden Key International Honour Society. As such she attended the Board of Directors meeting and International Summit held in Scottsdale Arizona from July 13-18.

She opened and closed the international conference and together with Carla Burkhardt and student officers, Molly Meinen and Michelle Neabling, presented a showcase project consisting of the UW-L chapter’s work with KinderKarnival and Battle for the Books. The chapter again won Gold Chapter Award based on their completion of various leadership, academic and service standards. And UW-La Crosse has been chosen to serve as one of five to host the regional summit on April 1-3, 2011.

Fall 2010 Archived News

Shakespearean delight set at UW-La Crosse “Twelfth Night” to be performed in December