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Inside “Mindhunter”
New Trustees
BC Research
Connell School’s Ann Burgess, part of a special presentation on the Netflix hit series.
Nicholas Burns, Jonathan Rather, Kendall Reid, and Kevin Smart join board.
Accomplished alumnus Philip Landrigan returns to campus as the director of BC’s new Global Public Health initiative. SEPTEMBER 13, 2018 VOL 26 NO. 2
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School of Theology and Ministry 10th Anniversary
A Decade of Solid Growth, Great Achievements BY KATHLEEN SULLIVAN STAFF WRITER
The School of Theology and Ministry marks the end of its first decade having established itself among the world’s leaders in theology, divinity, and religious studies, and in the process fulfilling an important role for Boston College. STM will formally celebrate its 10th anniversary on Sept. 20 with a Mass and an address by one of its most well-known graduates. The anniversary celebration will begin at 12:15 p.m. with a Mass at St. Ignatius Church that is open to the Boston College community. University President William P. Leahy, S.J., will preside and Timothy P. Kesicki, S.J., president of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the U.S., will deliver the homily. That evening, best-selling author James Martin, S.J., editor-at-large for America magazine and a frequent media commentator, will be presented with STM’s firstever Alumni Distinguished Service Award. Fr. Martin, who recently marked 30 years in the Society of Jesus, is the author of
Simboli Hall, the home of the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry.
University initiative will provide locations, resources to promote student formation BY SEAN SMITH CHRONICLE EDITOR
Sometimes, college students’ lives just don’t fit snugly into the conventional contours of the 24-hour day. Instead of settling in for the night when
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photo by gary wayne gilbert
Space Exploration the clock hits 11 p.m., students may be gathering to study, work on a project, or just unwind from a long day of classes, assignments, and other responsibilities. Or, in the hustle-bustle of a typical weekday, they may be looking to have a quiet conversation with a friend, a follow-up discus-
several books, including The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything, My Life with the Saints, and Between Heaven and Mirth. Last month, Fr. Martin gave a talk at the Vatican’s World Meeting of Families in Dublin. Immediately preceding the award presentation, Fr. Martin will deliver the inaugural Daniel J. Harrington, S.J., Alumni Lecture at Robsham Theater at 7 p.m. Fr. Martin is expected to discuss his theological education and formation, how it has shaped his ministry, and what he sees as the most pressing needs for ministry in the world today. The lecture’s namesake is the renowned New Testament scholar and STM professor Daniel J. Harrington, S.J., who died in 2014. Fr. Martin was a student of Fr. Harrington’s, and dedicated his book, Jesus: A Pilgrimage, to his friend and mentor. A reception will take place before the lecture at 5:30 p.m. on the plaza in front of Robsham (rain location: Heights Room). Since its founding in 2008, STM has developed into an internationally respected center of Catholic theological and ministe-
sion with a faculty member, or perhaps even play music with a fellow undergrad or two. Boston College administrators believe those experiences are an important part of higher education, and that there should be a place—literally—for them in the life of a BC student. This Monday, the University will formally launch a campaign, “BC After Hours,” to provide locations and resources around campus that encourage the kind of
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“The Eagle Intern Fellowship Program brings into conversation two key questions at the heart of BC’s approach to career exploration—What brings me joy? What am I good at?—and makes them salient for the students participating in the program.” — Career Center Assistant Director Nicholas Paschvoss, page 2
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SEPTEMBER 13, 2018
Around Campus
‘What They Do For Us Is Amazing’ The Career Center’s Eagle Intern Fellowship Program is a big summer hit with undergraduates Boston College undergraduates gained valuable work experience, and an insight into their potential career paths, this past summer through the support of the Eagle Intern Fellowship Program. Established by the Career Center in 2014, the program provides financial assistance to BC students interested in unpaid summer internships. Recipients work with a personal career coach provided by the Career Center and are required to check in with them at least twice over the course of the summer. Last Friday, 71 Eagle Fellows were on hand at a poster session in the O’Neill Library Reading Room to talk about what they had learned this past summer and how their internships have influenced their future plans. Matthew Alvarado, a Carroll School of Management student from Los Angeles, applied to the fellowship program so he could continue in his role as an enrollment intern at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Massachusetts Bay, which has already offered him a full-time position for when he graduates in 2020. “I couldn’t have done this internship without the Eagle Intern Fellowship,” he said. “What they do for us is amazing. I really couldn’t have stayed here in Boston and built the connections I have now without their support. I am really appreciative of all they do.” His summer job entailed matching children ages seven to 12 with a volunteer mentor and recruiting for a new Big Brother site in New Bedford. “Being able to build an office and construct two programs down in New Bedford, looking back and seeing the growth of 28 matches in three months, and seeing it all come together was my favorite part.” “Before my internship, I was unclear in what field I would want to work,” said Donald Gummow ’19, a computer science major and chemistry minor, reflecting on his internship with Affect Mental Health at Harvard Innovation Labs. “Now, I know for certain I will be working in the mental health field. It is something important to me and I really found a passion for it this summer. I am also exploring master of public health degree programs that would ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS
Jack Dunn DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS
allow me to have a better understanding of the mental health field and ways that I can improve the mental health landscape.” Career Center Assistant Director of Career Engagement Nicholas Paschvoss stressed the career-driven focus of the fellowship program. “The program brings into conversation two key questions at the heart of BC’s approach to career exploration—What brings me joy? What am I good at?—and makes them salient for the students participating in the program.” Political science major Amanda Alberda ’21, who interned at the Lewiston District Court in Lewiston, Me., said, “The Eagle
Suraj Pasupneti ’19 described his summer internship experience last week during the Eagle Intern Fellowship Program poster session. photo by peter julian
Intern Fellowship was really my first experience with the Career Center, and now I have been exposed to the many resources that they have available. I would encourage BC students to reach out to the Career Center as early as freshman year for advice on majors and interests because the center is one of the most valuable resources on campus.” Applications for summer 2019 open in January. More information is available at the Career Center’s website, www.bc.edu/ career. —Christine Balquist Read a Boston College Magazine piece on the Eagle Interns Fellowship Program at bcm. bc.edu/issues/summer_2018/features/openseason.html.
CONTRIBUTING STAFF
Sean Smith
Voices Will Carry at AcapellaFest Tomorrow night at 7 p.m., Robsham Theater will host the annual AcapellaFest, a concert featuring Boston College student vocal groups—including The Acoustics, which has organized the event since its debut in 2011. Since 2012, proceeds from the show have gone to support the Morgan Center, a nonprofit that provides preschool-age children battling cancer the opportunity to interact and socialize. Chronicle caught up recently with Acoustics President Enjay Brown ’19 to ask him about AcapellaFest. Q: AcapellaFest takes place quite early in the semester—and this is the earliest date yet. Does that make it challenging to get everyone focused and ready? Brown: We had auditions recently and we took in five new excited freshmen. For them, this opportunity to perform in Robsham to a large audience is a great first show to start their Acoustics career. It’s the same with the other acapella groups: AcapellaFest gives all our freshmen a chance to get to know more people in this incredibly supportive acapella community. Q: What’s the line-up for this year? Brown: Every year, all of BC’s acapella groups perform. That’s the Dynamics, Sharps, Bostonians, Beats, Against the Current, Heightsmen, Voices of Imani, and the Commontones, as well as The Acoustics. Also, the Morgan Center’s co-founders, Nancy and Rod Zuch, will be there presenting on behalf of the center.
Christine Balquist Phil Gloudemans Ed Hayward Roseanne Pellegrini Kathleen Sullivan
Chronicle
PHOTOGRAPHERS
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Patricia Delaney EDITOR
Among the student groups performing at tomorrow night’s AcapellaFest will be The Dynamics (shown above at this past spring’s Arts Festival), which also organizes the annual fundraising event. photo by lee pellegrini
Gary Gilbert Lee Pellegrini Peter Julian
Q: How much does AcapellaFest raise for the Morgan Center? Brown: The concert is sold out almost every year, and typically we raise from $4,000 to $7,000. Q: Now that the concert’s been going on for several years, does it create a buzz among BC’s acapella groups? Brown: Definitely. My friends in other acapella groups have been asking about this event since the academic year started. It has become a staple for the acapella community as a whole, as well as for the wonderful people volunteering at the Morgan Center. The Acoustics pride ourselves on our relationship with the Morgan Center and especially the Zuch family, who started it. This is our biggest charity event and we are honored to be able to host it every year. Q: What’s AcapellaFest like from a performer’s standpoint? Brown: The vibe backstage is amazing and groups are intermingling throughout the entire evening. Some people even try to sneak back behind the stage so that they can hear their friends in other acapella groups sing. It is truly an amazing thing to see members from different groups interacting with each other and getting to meet new friends. —Sean Smith See The Acoustics website [www.thebostoncollegeacoustics.com] for information about AcapellaFest.
The Boston College Chronicle (USPS 009491), the internal newspaper for faculty and staff, is published biweekly from September to May by Boston College, with editorial offices at the Office of University Communications, 3 Lake Street, Brighton, MA 02135 (617)552-3350. Distributed free to faculty and staff offices and other locations on campus. Periodicals postage paid at Boston, MA and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to The Boston College Chronicle, Office of University Communications, 3 Lake Street, Brighton, MA 02135. A flipbook edition of Chronicle is available via e-mail. Send requests to chronicle@bc.edu.
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Connell School to Host an Inside Look at ‘Mindhunter’ Show
Snapshot
Connell School of Nursing Professor Ann Burgess, right, will speak at “The Minds Behind ‘Mindhunter’” this Monday at Robsham Theater. She will be joined by retired FBI special investigator John Douglas, above left—shown with actor Jonathan Groff, who portrays a character based on Douglas in the popular Netflix show “Mindhunter,” which also features a çharacter modeled after Burgess.
PHOTOS BY PETER JULIAN
Student Involvement Fair
Representatives from Boston College’s more than 270 student clubs and organizations came out to the Student Involvement Fair on Stokes Lawn, where they tried all manner of techniques to attract the attention of prospective new members.
PHOTO BY FRANK CURRAN
The Connell School of Nursing will host an event with the real-life criminal profiling pioneers behind the Netflix hit show “Mindhunter” on Sept. 17 at 4:30 p.m. in Robsham Theater. “The Minds behind ‘Mindhunter’” will feature Connell School Professor Ann Burgess and retired FBI special investigator John Douglas, who teamed up with FBI agent Robert Ressler in 1970s to develop a new type of criminal profiling to better understand the psychology of serial killers. Burgess and Douglas will discuss how they developed new insights into deeply disturbed criminal minds as well as their work on the chilling cases showcased on the television series. Douglas captured his groundbreaking work with Burgess and the late Robert Ressler in his 1995 book Mindhunter: Inside the FBI’s Elite Serial Crime Unit, which is the basis for the fictionalized Netflix series. In the series, the Burgess-inspired character is named Dr. Wendy Carr and is portrayed by Anna Torv, while the Douglas character, Holden Ford, is portrayed by Jonathan Groff. Season one of the series debuted in 2017 to rave reviews. A release date for season two is expected soon. Burgess was tapped by the FBI to help develop the serial killer profiles due to her expertise in assessing and treating trauma victims. The team published Crime Classification Manual: A Standard System for Investigating and Classifying Violent Crimes and has been credited with launching the FBI’s behavioral science method of profiling killers. The event is free, but tickets are required. See www.bc.edu/mindhunter for more details and to register. The discussion will include photographs of criminal victims and events that some may find disturbing. It may not be appropriate for all audiences. —Kathleen Sullivan
Boston College Ranked 38th in US News Survey Boston College placed 38th among national universities in the 2019 US News & World Report rankings released this week. The University, ranked 32nd last year, fell six places as a result of a major shift in the survey’s methodology which, analysts say, benefitted large public universities this year. Specifically, the methodology shift, in which more weight was given to Pell Grant recipient outcomes, favored large state institutions with higher numbers of Pell-eligible students. In addition, US News eliminated acceptance rates—which had benefitted highly selective institutions such as Boston College—and gave less weight to traditional outcome metrics such as overall graduation and retention rates, high school counselor assessments and standardized test scores—metrics that have consistently placed Boston College between 30th and 32nd in the rankings for more than a decade. Among the state flagship institutions that did well in the 2019 US News survey were the University of California-Santa Barbara, which moved up seven spots in the rankings; University of California-Irvine, which improved by nine places; and the University of Florida, which improved seven ranks. All three public universities surpassed Boston College this year. The University of California-Davis advanced eight places in the rankings to move into a tie at 38th with BC and the College of
William & Mary, both of which were tied at 32nd last year. The University did well in several US News specialty rankings, including the recently created “Commitment to Undergraduate Teaching” category, in which BC was ranked 16th overall, and the “Best Undergraduate Business Programs,” in which the Carroll School of Management improved three positions to 21st. In addition, the Carroll School was ranked ninth in finance, 11th in management, 13th in entrepreneurship, 27th in marketing, and 31st in accounting, all reflective of its high standing among business schools nationwide. Boston College also improved to 33rd in the “Best Value Schools” ranking, based on the University’s commitment to needblind admissions and to meeting the full demonstrated need of all of its accepted students. Among private national universities, Boston College ranked 22nd in the “Least Debt” category for graduating students. Overall, in the National University rankings, Princeton was ranked first by US News followed by Harvard at second, and Columbia, MIT, University of Chicago, and Yale tied for third. US News’ rankings of all colleges and universities are available at www.usnews. com. —Jack Dunn
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School of Theology and Ministry to Mark 10 Years Continued from page 1
rial education, noted STM Dean Thomas D. Stegman, S.J. “STM is now mentioned in the same conversation as schools that have been around for hundreds of years, like Harvard and Yale. Being in that company—within such a relatively short amount of time—speaks volumes about the quality of the education and the people at STM.” STM is a key element in advancing Boston College toward its goal of becoming the world’s leading Catholic university and theological center. The 2018 QS World University Rankings placed Boston College sixth among the world’s top universities in theology, divinity, and religious studies. It is the highest-ranked Catholic institution. The rapid ascension of STM into the ranks of top-tier theological schools is due in large part to its distinguished faculty, whose quality is evident not only in their individual scholarship in fields such as Biblical studies, Church history, systematics, moral theology, religious education, and pastoral studies, but also in the two allfaculty book projects, Hope: Promise, Possibility, and Fulfillment and The Holy Spirit: Setting the World on Fire. Community is a distinctive characteristic of STM. Students work together to engage theological and pastoral questions in the classroom and beyond. The entire
STM community gathers together every Thursday for liturgy and a shared lunch. These opportunities create a welcoming, closely-knit community that celebrates its diversity and its shared commitment to faith and service. STM’s dedicated, holistic approach to formation, rooted in the Jesuit ideal of cura personalis (care for the whole person), was recognized as a model program by the Association of Theological Schools during STM’s accreditation. “We want our graduates to be leaders and agents of transformation in the Church and in the world,” noted Fr. Stegman. “Therefore, we are very intentional about all aspects of our students’ formation, including intellectual, pastoral, spiritual, and personal.” STM is highlighting the work of Fr. Martin all semester, including through a four-week online course via its Crossroads program titled “The Best of James Martin, S.J. in America.” The course provides participants with an opportunity to discuss America articles by Fr. Martin and how his reflections and commentary might shape an idea of Christian living in today’s world. Next month, Crossroads will launch a five-week online book club focused on Fr. Martin’s most recent book, Building a Bridge. [See http://bit.ly/building-a-
James Martin, S.J. (shown during a 2014 appearance at Boston College), editor-at-large for America magazine, will be presented with the Alumni Distinguished Service Award and deliver the inaugural Daniel Harrington, S.J., Alumni Lecture as part of the School of Theology and Ministry 10th anniversary celebration. PHOTO BY JEAN CHISSER
bridge-2018 for enrollment information.] “This year will be an exciting one for the School of Theology and Ministry as we celebrate the accomplishments of our first 10 years,” added Fr. Stegman. “We also look forward to creating new ways to
Spaces for Students Continued from page 1
informal socializing, collaboration, artistic expression, and other activities integral to students’ personal and spiritual formation. “BC After Hours” builds on other recent efforts, including the McMullen Museum of Art’s “Art After Dark” series and University Libraries’ “24/5” program of expanded hours for studying and access to collections and services. The initiative is the result of a collaboration between representatives from Student Affairs, University Mission and Ministry, Dining Services, University Libraries, Boston College Police, Auxiliary Services, Information Technology, Facilities Management, and Institutional Research, Planning and Assessment, as well as academic offices. “One of the four components of the University’s ‘Ever to Excel’ strategic plan focuses on student formation,” said Vice President for Planning and Assessment Kelli Armstrong, a member of the committee, organized by Provost and Dean of Faculties David Quigley and Executive Vice President Michael Lochhead. “Creating spaces for students to collaborate, and to interact with faculty and staff, is an important part of our mission. These enhanced spaces are the first step in a plan to continually improve the environment for students, and we plan to offer
The recent addition of Adirondack chairs—shown here in front of Cheverus Hall— is part of a University initiative to provide spaces around campus that encourage informal socializing and discussion among students. photo by lee pellegrin
additional spaces each year.” Jesuit education is centered on the concept of formation, noted Interim Vice President for Student Affairs Joy Moore, and the belief that personal and spiritual growth must accompany intellectual development. “Students tell us that spaces for collaboration, informal study, and comfortable socializing allow them to connect in intentional ways and create opportunities
for engagement and dialogue—the very things that enable them to form deeper insights about themselves and others.” A website created by the Office of University Communications [www.bc.edu/ space] lists outdoor or indoor campus locations where students can hang out, find food service, or use rooms for group studying or collaboration, sometimes well into the night. Students also can look for
live out Boston College’s strategic directions—especially in the areas of formation and of service to the Church locally, nationally, and globally.” Contact Kathleen Sullivan at kathleen.sullivan@bc.edu available rehearsal spaces, printers or charging stations—even where a cup of coffee can be found. Using the site, a student seeking outdoor relaxation or recreation would see that Upper Campus has Adirondack chairs in which to lounge, or that the Harrington Athletics Village on Brighton Campus has a field for intramural sports—and, if stopping off at The Loft at Addie’s for a late-night snack, the student could also recharge his or her phone there. A student group in need of a room for an evening would find options like the fourth floor of Maloney Hall or a classroom in Stokes Hall—some rooms are now available by reservation, or will be later this month—and could even arrange for food delivery with Eagle Bucks. BC music or dance performance ensembles will now be able to rehearse in a multipurpose room at 300 Hammond Pond Parkway, to which the University will begin providing shuttle bus service this month. Student surveys and focus groups, along with consultations with student leadership, provided the basis for these and other proposals enacted by the committee. The website will be updated as more spaces, services, and programs become available, Armstrong said. Among the plans under discussion are renovations in O’Neill Library for additional seating and collaboration space, along with a site for faculty/ student dinners. Contact Sean Smith at sean.smith@bc.edu
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Ahead of First Meeting of 2018-19, BC Board of Trustees Welcomes Four New Members This fall, the University’s Board of Trustees, which convenes on Sept. 28, welcomes four new members—all Boston College alumni and two recipients of honorary degrees from the University: Nicholas Burns ’78, Hon. ’02 Burns is the Roy and Barbara Goodman Family Professor of the Practice of Diplomacy and International Relations at the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government; founder and faculty chair of the Future of Diplomacy Project; faculty chair of the Project on Europe and the Transatlantic Relationship; board member of its Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, and a faculty associate at Harvard’s Weatherhead Center for International Affairs. Burns served in the U.S. government for 27 years: As a career Foreign Service Officer, he was Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, U.S. Ambassador to NATO, Ambassador to Greece, and State Department spokesman. Prior to that he served on the White House National Security Council, in the American Consulate General in Jerusalem, at the American embassy in Egypt, and as a member of Secretary of State John Kerry’s Foreign Affairs Policy Board. He has received 15 honorary degrees, the Presidential Distinguished Ser-
vice Award, the Secretary of State’s Distinguished Service Award, and many others. He earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Boston College and a master’s degree in international relations from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. Burns serves on several boards of companies, foundations, and nonprofit organizations. Jonathan M. Rather ’82 Since 1999, Rather has been a general partner and member of the Management Committee and Investment Committee at Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe, a private equity firm with $22 billion under management. He is responsible for managing its operations including risk management, finance, investor relations, and compliance. Previously, he spent 14 years with the Goelet Investment Office, serving as chief operating officer and chief financial officer. Prior to that, Rather worked at Arthur Andersen & Co. He earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Boston College, and a master’s degree in taxation from Pace University. He is involved with several charitable organizations focused on education and community outreach, including service as treasurer, executive committee, and board member of Domus, which assists more than 1,100 underprivileged youths
and their families—with charter schools, a community and residential group home center and programming—in Connecticut. Kendall Reid ’79, Hon. ’18 An award-winning documentary producer, Reid started her television production career at CBS News; in 1988, she began her 26-year career with HBO Sports, and as a producer and director, developed some of the network’s most compelling television. She was a coproducer on the Peabody Awardwinning documentaries “Journey of the African American Athlete,” and “Dare to Compete, the Struggle of Women in Sports.” Reid also produced “Bill Russell: My Life, My Way,” and served as coordinating producer on “A City on Fire: The Story of the ’68 Detroit Tigers,” and “OJ: A Study in Black & White.” She also produced live boxing events, feature segments, and HBO exclusive presentations. She has garnered numerous awards, and her memberships have included New York Women in Film & Television, the National Association of Black Journalists, the National Association of Minorities in Cable, the Academy of TV Arts & Sciences and Women in Sports and Events.
Reid holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Boston College. Kevin Smart ’99 Smart, a managing director at J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., has been with the firm for 19 years. He currently works on a middle markets equity sales desk—of which he was responsible for implementation, execution, and roll-out—covering hedge funds, asset managers, family offices, and high net worth individuals. Smart began his career in the J.P. Morgan Chase Leadership Development Program, and worked in Finance & Business Management and Operations supporting Credit Sales and Trading, before transitioning to the Global Equities and Equity Derivatives businesses. He was part of the Corporate & Investment Bank Steering Committee for the creation of the Black Leadership Forum and supports JPMC recruiting efforts with historically black colleges and universities. Smart received a bachelor’s degree from Boston College and an MBA from Cornell University. His other BC service activities include membership on the Wall Street Council, Alumni Advisory Council Executive Committee, and Board of Regents. —University Communications
Woods College Now Offering Graduate Programs in Applied Economics and Data Analytics Online After three years of data and performance analysis experience in the financial services, market research consulting, and petroleum industries, Stefano Parravano realized that he could have a greater impact with enhanced skills. Parravano, who graduated from Boston College in 2014 with degrees in economics and mathematics, is a strategist at Global Partners LP. “I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to present models and analysis to C-suite executives,” he said. “But I realized that what I needed was to grow my skills in economic thinking and applying analysis more systematically to solve real-life problems.” Parravano, who is now pursuing a Master of Science in Applied Economics degree through the Woods College of Advancing Studies, finds the program’s melding of deep analytical rigor with practical application in economic research and Big Data to be the ideal combination for him. Since its launch in 2015, the MSAE— one of a portfolio of rigorous, industry-
aligned graduate degree programs housed in BC’s Woods College—has been providing students with a comprehensive understanding of Big Data through a hands-on curriculum, grounded in ethics and values, that helps students tackle real-world problems and prepares them to make effective, highly impactful decisions in the workplace. Students ranging from college graduates seeking career-enhancing credentials to seasoned professionals who want to shore up skills gaps have the option of completing the full MSAE, a graduate certificate in Data Analytics, or both. Now, in response to growing interest from working professionals, the Woods College has launched the two programs in fully online formats, enabling students to choose the option that works best for them. “Employers are clear that they need employees with significant depth in data and analytics and the ability to apply those skills in a variety of contexts and industries,” said economist Aleksandar Tomic,
who directs both programs. “We are answering that call with training in deep analytical tools and economic intuition, as well as providing context as to how the tools are used in a variety of situations, from financial compliance, private equity, and market research to healthcare and policy. “As a result, our students have the opportunity to make exceptional leaders,” he said. Since its inception, the program has attracted a diverse array of enrollees—from domestic and international students with newly-minted undergraduate degrees to retiring senior-level leaders in multinational companies, according to Tomic. It has drawn students from multiple countries, including China, India, Brazil, Germany, UAE, Taiwan, Turkey, and Canada, as well as the United States. Of particular note, Tomic said, is the BC MSAE’s popularity among women students. “Economics is generally a field where women are under-represented, but
that is not the case in our program,” he said. While he attributes the interest in part to a demographic shift playing out internationally, he believes another factor to be the program’s focus on ethical decision-making, and its attention to student development beyond the acquisition of technical skills. Interest in the online MSAE has been strong since the option was launched in August. “Healthy enrollments for fall show that students do desire the flexibility that [the] online format offers,” he said. “The Data Analytics certificate also is off to a great start, and we are seeing quite a few of our MSAE students choosing to earn this credential along with their master’s degree.” Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. For more information about either program, see appliedeconomics.bc.edu —Patricia Delaney Read a longer version of this story at http://bit.ly/woods-college-MSAE
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SEPTEMBER 13, 2018
Former Fairfield President Assumes Gasson Chair BY KATHLEEN SULLIVAN STAFF WRITER
Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J., who served as president and professor of history at Fairfield University from 2004 to 2016, has joined Boston College as the Thomas I. Gasson, S.J., Professor for 2018-19. Fr. von Arx will be affiliated with the School of Theology and Ministry, where he taught History of Western Christianity III as a visiting professor in the spring. He will teach the same course, which covers the history of the Catholic Church from the late-18th century to mid-20th century, during the spring 2019 semester. Fr. von Arx is a historian specializing in modern European history, particularly British and Irish history and the Roman Catholic Church in 19th-century Britain. He is the author of Progress and Pessimism: Religion, Politics and History in Late Nineteenth Century Britain and editor and contributor to Varieties of Ultramontanism. Prior to assuming the presidency of Fairfield, Fr. von Arx served as dean of Fordham College at Rose Hill and associate professor of history from 1998 to 2004. He previously was a member of the history department faculty at
Georgetown University from 1982 to 1998, serving as department chair from 1991 to 1997 and founding director of its Center for Australian and New Zealand Studies from 1995 to 1998. “It is a real pleasure to have Jeff von Arx back here at Boston College as the Gasson Professor after a stellar career in academic leadership at Fordham, Georgetown, and Fairfield,” said Canisius Professor of Theology James F. Keenan, S.J., director of the Jesuit Institute. “Jeff is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and a formidable scholar and compelling speaker.” Fr. von Arx will present the fall Gasson lecture, “Two Cardinals: Conflict and Controversy in the Victorian Catholic Church”—about John Henry Newman and Henry Edward Manning—on Nov. 14 at 5:30 p.m. in the Cadigan Alumni Center Atrium. He will deliver the spring Gasson lecture on Feb. 13. “It is wonderful to be here as the Gasson Professor and to participate in the vibrant intellectual community that is Boston College and the School of Theology and Ministry,” said Fr. von Arx, a Boston College trustee from 1998 to 2006 who now serves as a trustee associate. In addition to teaching and offering
Jeffrey von Arx, S.J., the 2018-19 Gasson Professor.
two public lectures, Fr. von Arx is working on scholarly projects as Gasson Professor. A main focus is his book project on Cardinal Manning, archbishop of Westminster and head of the English Roman Catholic Church in the second half of the 19th century. Fr. von Arx praised the collections at the Theology and Ministry Library and Burns Library, particularly the British Catholic Authors Collection. “They have been very helpful and very useful.” After entering the Society of Jesus in 1969, Fr. von Arx was ordained in 1981. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University and M.A., M.Phil.,
PHOTO BY LEE PELLEGRINI
and Ph.D. degrees from Yale University. He received his master of divinity degree from Weston Jesuit School of Theology, now BC’s School of Theology and Ministry. Fr. von Arx is currently the superior and director of John LaFarge House in Cambridge, an independent Jesuit community and house of studies for Jesuits doing graduate work in the Boston area. Funded by a gift from the Jesuit Community at Boston College, the Gasson Chair is held by a distinguished Jesuit scholar in any discipline and is the oldest endowed professorship at Boston College.
Beijing Conference Had Strong Boston College Presence The world’s leading philosophers gathered for a weeklong conference last month in Beijing under the leadership of Joseph Professor of Catholic Philosophy Dermot Moran. The 24th World Congress of Philosophy drew some 8,000 scholars from more than 120 countries to Peking University to discuss the theme of “Learning to be Human.” “The congress reflected critically on the role of philosophy in relation to world culture, to globalization, to various existential and environment threats that challenge us in our quest to realize our common humanity,” said Moran, president of the International Federation of Philosophical Societies (FISP), which convenes the World Congress of Philosophy every five years. The World Congress was the first one held in China in FISP’s 70-year history. Moran noted that the location is significant because this congress deliberately strived to go beyond Western approaches to teaching philosophy. “The program was carefully designed to include recognition of East and West, North and South. Philosophy in all its forms was included—not just philosophy as traditionally understood in the great systems of Greek, Indian, Jewish, Christian, Islamic, and Chinese thought, but also Marxist philosophy, environmental philosophy, philosophy of indigenous cultures, philosophy of cosmopolitanism, philosophy at the margins,” he said.
Joseph Professor Dermot Moran, third from left, greets Chinese Minister of Education Chen Baosheng at the recent World Congrees of Philosophy, of which he was a principal organizer.
“In many respects, the 24th World Congress of Catholic Philosophy was a coming-of-age party for Chinese philosophy. No longer can the rich tradition of Chinese philosophy be at the margins of academic philosophy; it has been recognized as a tradition as rich and varied as that of Greek philosophy,” added Moran, a specialist in phenomenology and medieval philosophy. Interviewed by China’s CGTN-TV,
Moran explained the universal role of philosophy. “There is not a big gap between ordinary people’s lives and philosophy. Philosophy is about human beings making sense of the world.” In his welcoming address, Moran said, “We are in the middle of global crises of many kinds—crises in politics, in economics, in society, in the environment, and, furthermore, crises in our traditions, beliefs, and values. Indeed, despite the
extraordinary technological and scientific achievements of our time, perhaps there has never been such a global sense of insecurity and distrust. “Everywhere human relations with one another, with the social and natural environment, and with the cosmos as a whole, are challenged by problems of such an enormous scale than no one country, no one language-community, no one knowledge-economy, can address these challenges on its own. No group or community can live in isolation; we live in mutual dependence, in what the philosopher Edmund Husserl called Ineinandersein, ‘being-withone-another’; in what Hannah Arendt calls life ‘in the plural.’ “‘Learning to be human’ has to be understood to include learning how to be a better human being, through self-improvement, self-rectification, self-critique, and also through communal learning together in order to improve our humanity,” added Moran. Boston College Philosophy Department faculty Seelig Professor Richard Kearney, Professor Eileen Sweeney, and Associate Professor Dan McKaughan also attended the World Congress. Kearney gave a plenary address on “anatheism” as part of a panel on spirituality. Sweeney delivered an illustrated talk on medieval Christian approaches to love. —Kathleen Sullivan
Chronicle
SEPTEMBER 13, 2018
International Systemic Function Congress
BC Plays Host to a Major World Linguistics Forum BY PHIL GLOUDEMANS STAFF WRITER
Linguistics, sociology and anthropology scholars, along with college, high school and K-8 educators from around the world gathered at the Lynch School of Education this past summer for the 45th Annual International Systemic Function Congress— an event last hosted in the U.S. in 1983— marking the first time that Boston College has welcomed the International Systemic Functional Linguistics Association (ISFLA) to campus. More than 300 attendees from Australia, India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Denmark, Norway, Italy, Great Britain, Spain, Chile, Uruguay, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, South Africa, and the U.S. convened at the Heights for the five-day conference, titled “(Re) Imagining the Future: Expanding Resources & Making Connections.” “Since its origins, Systemic Functional Linguistic (SFL) theory has been applied to analyze language in many contexts such as media, medicine, law, and others,” said Lynch School Professor Maria Estela Brisk, who coordinated the congress. “Our theme helped us consider how we can use theory in robust ways to address and challenge current and future social issues such as global conflict, deficit migration policies, education equity and racism.” SFL theory, as espoused by its founder, British-born Michael A.K. Halliday (19252018), is a worldwide approach to the scientific study of language, and the social dimensions of meaning, which are shaped by relations of power, Brisk explained. As authority shifts in society, language changes, influencing individuals and societies. “The theme also encouraged reflection on how to expand language to challenge these issues and generate interdisciplinary knowledge,” she added. The congress was preceded by a threeday institute, where renowned scholars in the field taught six courses, including “Reading to Learn (R2L): Democratizing the Classroom,” led by David Rose, an honorary associate of the University of Sydney, and director of an international literacy program that trains teachers across school and university sectors in Australia, Africa, Asia and Western Europe. “SFL has been for many decades one of the most important approaches to the scholarly study of language and social action worldwide,” said Stanton Wortham, the Charles F. Donovan, S.J., dean of the Lynch School and the ISFC plenary speaker. “It was an honor to be the first American institution to host their conference in 35 years. BC and the Lynch School have a strong group of faculty working on language and social context, and it’s great they were able to host such an inspiring event.”
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BC in the Media Boston College faculty members continued to share their expertise with the media regarding the turmoil within the Catholic Church. Prof. for Macro Practice Tiziana Dearing (BCSSW) appeared on WBUR-FM’s “Radio Boston” and New England Cable News’ “The Take” to discuss the meeting between Boston Cardinal Sean O’Malley, OFM, Cap., and some 600 priests from the archdiocese, and to weigh in on wider issues regarding clergy abuse. Ahead of Pope Francis’ visit to Ireland, Prof. of the Practice Robert Savage (History) offered his perspective to the Washington Post on the differences in Ireland since the last papal visit in 1979. Prof. Thomas Groome (STM) and Assoc. Prof. Rev. James Weiss (Theology) were among the scholars asked by the Boston Herald to comment on the controversial letter released by former Holy See diplomat Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano. Prof. Hosffman Ospino (STM) spoke with America on how Hispanic Catholics have reacted to reports of abuse in the Church.
Rates of sexually transmitted diseases are at an all-time high in the U.S., according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Clinical Instructor Alison Marshall (CSON) discussed some of the issues behind the troubling statistics with Time. Regardless of how large the justices loom over American life, nothing in the Constitution mandates that there be nine of them, wrote Founders Professor of Law Mary Sarah Bilder in a piece for the Boston Globe. Nike isn’t trying to be “woke,” it’s trying to sell shoes. Putting controversial football player Colin Kaepernick in ads is branding, not social action, explained Asst. Prof. Michael Serazio (Communication) in an op-ed for the Washington Post. Assoc. Prof. David Hopkins (Political Science) was quoted on topics related to the Massachusetts primary election by
the Boston Globe, Boston Herald, Bloomberg News, and Lowell Sun. In an appearance on New England Cable News’ “The Take,” Assoc. Prof. of the Practice Westy Egmont (BCSSW) discussed the growing humanitarian crisis in Yemen, in the wake of continuing attacks by Saudi Arabia and its Persian Gulf allies that have killed children as well as adults. Will the tight labor market finally boost prospects for workers in their 50s and 60s, many of whom lost jobs at the peak of their careers during the economic downturn? Assoc. Prof. of the Practice Matthew Rutledge (Economics), a researcher with the Center for Retirement Research, gave his views on the question to the Boston Globe. School of Theology and Ministry Prof. Hosffman Ospino and Assoc. Prof. of the Practice Rafael Luciani wrote a piece for America on Medellín, the first and perhaps one of the most successful exercises of appropriation of the Second Vatican Council at the continental level.
Jobs
PHOTO: LEE PELLEGRINI
The Council on Anthropology and Education (CAE) has selected Lynch School of Education Assistant Professors Gabrielle Oliveira and Jon Wargo as Concha Delgado Gaitán Presidential Fellows, an early-career honor bestowed on scholars to support their professional development. The CAE is a section of the American Anthropological Association, founded in 1968 to advance scholarship on schooling in social and cultural contexts, and on human learning both inside and outside of schools. The fellowship program is named for educational anthropologist and University of California-Davis Professor Concha Delgado Gaitan, a Mexican native and former California elementary school teacher/principal who fought for social change in poor and underrepresented communities. “This fellowship is designed to give early-career scholars a mentoring boost toward tenure and/or professional success, and to cultivate the next generation of CAE leadership,” said former CAE President Marta Baltodano. Recipients are provided grants to attend the annual meeting of the American Anthropological Association, and they are paired with senior mentors who provide one-on-one career advice and support. Fellows also participate in a professional learning community with their cohort,
previous presidential fellows and mentors, as well as Delgado Gaitán, who serves as a mentor-at-large. Oliveira, who earned her doctorate from Columbia University, is an assistant professor of Teacher Education, Special Education, Curriculum, and Instruction (TESpECI) at the Lynch School. Her research focuses on immigration and mobility—how people move, adapt, and parent across borders. Her expertise includes gender, anthropology, transnationalism, and bilingualism, with a concentration on Latin America. Wargo is also a TESpECI assistant professor whose focus is on the intersection of language, culture, literacy education, and technology, and how new media alter the lives of contemporary youth—particularly those belonging to historically marginalized populations. He earned his Ph.D. from Michigan State University. “Our department and school congratulate Drs. Oliveira and Wargo on this prestigious award,” said TESpECI chair Professor Susan Bruce. “Both scholars are devoted to conducting research about marginalized individuals and families with the goal of improving life opportunities. We are grateful for all they are contributing to our school and to the communities they serve.” —Phil Gloudemans
The following are among the most recent positions posted by the Department of Human Resources. For more information on employment opportunities at Boston College, see www.bc.edu/offices/ hr: Captain, Dining & Catering/Auxiliary/ Public Safety Director, Stewardship and Donor Engagement, University Advancement Assistant/Associate Director of Annual Giving, Classes, University Advancement Senior Data Analyst, University Advancement Development Assistant, University Advancement Associate Dean, Student Conduct, Student Affairs/Residential Life Treasury Analyst, Financial/Budget Systems Manager, Lynch School of Education, Academic Affairs/Provost Library Systems Administrator, Academic Affairs/Provost Senior Business Intelligence Analyst/Developer, University Advancement Assistant Director, Strategic Sourcing, Financial/Budget Public Safety Dispatcher, Dining & Catering/Auxiliary/Public Safety Fitness and Wellness Coordinator, Athletics Grant Manager, Connell School of Nursing Associate Director, Church in the 21st Century Center, President’s Office
Chronicle
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SEPTEMBER 13, 2018
BC Research
Taking a Global View of Public Health BC alum Philip Landrigan brings a distinguished record to his role as director of new University initiative BY ED HAYWARD STAFF WRITER
Philip J. Landrigan, M.D., ’63, one of the world’s leading authorities on public health—particularly children’s health—has been named the founding director of Boston College’s Global Public Health initiative, where he will help develop an undergraduate minor and launch new research focusing on the impacts of environmental pollution. Landrigan returns to his alma mater following a distinguished career at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. A pediatrician and epidemiologist by training, Landrigan served as the dean for global health and Ethel H. Wise Professor and Chair of Preventive Medicine. “It is exciting to return to Boston College,” said Landrigan, who grew up in Boston’s West Roxbury neighborhood and attended Boston Latin School. “BC gave so much to me as an undergraduate. I am looking forward to the chance give back to BC and support both researchers and our undergraduate students.” “In the field of global public health, Dr. Landrigan is one of a handful of internationally recognized leaders on the planet,” said Vice Provost for Research and Academic Planning and Deluca Professor of Biology Tom Chiles. “He brings vast experience and expertise to our new initiative in global public health. No one is better suited to lead this initiative on our campus than Dr. Landrigan.” Landrigan will work with BC faculty who are part of the team that offers the three-course program in Global Public Health as they develop a minor in the subject. He anticipates that program, taught by faculty from the schools of Education, Nursing, and Social Work, will debut as a
“Public health excites students at several levels,” says Landrigan. “It is a combination of things: intellectually complex, with a social justice component, which appeals to a lot of students, especially at BC, with its tradition of social justice and advancing the common good.” PHOTO BY GARY WAYNE GILBERT
minor in the fall of 2019. “Public health excites students at several levels,” said Landrigan. “It is exciting intellectually. Many current problems of public health are very complex and require a lot of reflection and careful assessment. Another great thing about public health is that it is rooted in a philosophy of social justice. So, it is a combination of things: intellectually complex, with a social justice component, which appeals to a lot of students, especially at BC, with its tradition of social justice and advancing the common good.” Landrigan will also assist with the planning and programming for the new Schiller Institute for Integrated Science and Society, which is scheduled to begin construction in 2019. Over the years, Landrigan has maintained ties with BC. He worked closely
with retired Professor of Biology Robert Wolff, who directed BC’s pre-health studies program, to set up summer internships in New York City for BC students. In 2014, Landrigan gave the keynote remarks at the University’s inaugural Advancing Research and Scholarship Day. Early in his career, Landrigan spent approximately 15 years as an epidemiologist with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. His work with fellow researchers led to the removal of lead additives from gasoline, a sweeping public health victory in the 1970s. His international work has taken him to countries including El Salvador and Nigeria and included his participation in the Global Campaign for the Eradication of Smallpox. His advocacy is credited with leading to the establishment of the Office of Children’s Health Protection at the U.S. Environmen-
BC Scenes
Mass of the Holy Spirit
Unseasonably warm weather forced the University to hold its annual Mass of the Holy Spirit in Conte Forum. (Above) University President William P. Leahy, S.J., center, was the celebrant for the Mass, and Vice President for University Mission and Ministry Jack Butler, S.J., was the homilist.
PHOTOS BY LEE PELLEGRINI
tal Protection Agency. In the days following the 9/11 attacks, Landrigan and his physician colleagues sketched out a plan to provide care to survivors, first responders, and others in close proximity to Ground Zero to help with the inevitable public health issues, ranging from exposure to hazardous materials to posttraumatic stress. Mount Sinai took the lead in assisting more than 22,000 lower Manhattan residents, workers and others who spent time at the site, part of a network of New York initiatives that have aided nearly 60,000 people—including first responders—exposed to the dust, smoke, debris, and toxins unleashed when the World Trade Center towers collapsed. Landrigan attended Boston College at a time when local students took the bus or subway to campus. “We were known as day hops,” he said. He cites George Drury, S.J., the pre-med advisor during his undergraduate years, as an important figure: “He was a very good guy and he gave me a lot of good mentoring back in the day.” Other influential faculty included Professor of Biology Leon Vincent and English Professor Arthur McGillivray, S.J. Landrigan had set his sights on medical school when he was in high school, inspired by his uncle, who was a physician, and his family doctor. At BC, he met his wife, Mary, in a chemistry class. She was a member of the class of 1964 and majored in chemistry. In August, the couple celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary. They have three children and seven grandchildren, who live in the Boston area. Contact Ed Hayward at ed.hayward@bc.edu
First Year Academic Convocation
PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER HUANG
Several hours later, the Class of 2022 gathered in Conte Forum for the First Year Academic Convocation, which featured a talk by best-selling author Dave Evans (left). The First Flight Processional from Linden Lane to Conte was cancelled due to rain.