Boston College Chronicle

The Boston College

Chronicle Published by the Boston College Office of News & Public Affairs november 29, 2012 VOL. 21 no. 7

•Campus kids’ drive now at 30 years, page 2

By Jack Dunn Director of News & Public Affairs

•Puppet festival at Robsham Sunday, page 2 •BC senior gives boost to Campus School, page 3

•CSOM’s Carter on TARP’s hidden impact, page 3 •Search for new football coach under way, page 3 •Seyfried studies metabolic theory of cancer, page 4

•McNair Program draws praise at BC, page 5 •GSSW’s Sudders named to health reform board, page 5 •After 46 years, Iatridis to bid farewell, page 6 •All-ACC honors for five football players, page 6 •Holiday season events at the Heights, page 8

A scene from the Theatre Department/Robsham Theater production of “Arabian Nights,” staged earlier this month. (Photo by Lee Pellegrini)

University Turning to Social Media as Communication Tool emerged on national social media News & Public Affairs Office establishes council to coordinate efforts An informal survey of social media on campus last semester found that more than 300 departments, organizations and individuals tweet, pin, post or blog on behalf of Boston College.

That’s a lot of messaging.

In an effort to bring together social media practitioners from across campus, the Office of News & Public Affairs – which administers the University’s official social media channels – established the Boston College Social Media Council to promote collaboration, share best practices and set a strategic direction for strengthening the University’s overall social media presence.

The group has quickly grown to include representatives from nearly every school, as well as from undergraduate admission, alumni/ advancement, student services, student affairs, information technology, athletics, libraries, police and other departments and organizations.

In its first six months, the SMC has developed a set of social media guidelines [available at http://bit.ly/ QK2Xjn], started publishing a blog [http://bostoncollegesocialmedia. com] and created a University social media directory. BC has also

higher education rankings lists, including a ninth-place ranking in the US based on Klout scores — a measure of a user’s influence across a social media network — according to Mashable.

Director of News & Public Affairs Jack Dunn said that with US colleges and universities now using social media, the medium has emerged as a crucial communication tool.

“The Office of News & Public Affairs was quick to embrace social media because we realized that it was destined to become the predominant means of communication in a world that puts a premium on speed and interactivity,” said Dunn. “While we will always engage in traditional media, social media enables us to communicate instantly and directly with anyone, anywhere who has an interest in Boston College and the work of our faculty, students and alumni.

Social media is the future, and we are pleased to be directing this effort for the Boston College community.”

Most importantly, organizers say, the SMC has provided a cross-departmental support system for various social media administrators, all of whom are balancing the increasing social media demands with their regular workload.

“We heard time and time again Continued on page 4

QUOTE:

Sean Smith

BC Graduate Wins Marshall Scholarship

TALES TO AMAZE

Aditya Ashok ’12, who won a Harry S Truman Scholarship for public service in 2011, has been named a recipient of the prestigious George Marshall Scholarship for graduate study in the United Kingdom, one of only 40 students to win the coveted award this year.

Marshall Scholarships, funded by the British government in honor of former US Secretary of State George C. Marshall, are awarded to American students of the highest academic ability based on their distinction in intellect and character, as evidenced by scholarly achievement, outstanding activities and leadership.

“I am pleased to win the Marshall Scholarship, which will pro-

Aditya Ashok ’12

vide me with an opportunity to better understand health disparities that exist between the United States and the UK,” said Ashok, who will study global health at the University of Glasgow beginning in August of 2013. “The MarContinued on page 6

GSSW Center Aims to Aid Immigrants’ Integration

By Sean Smith Chronicle Editor

Lee Pellegrini

INSIDE

Boston College, founded 150 years ago to educate the children of Boston immigrants, has embarked on a new initiative to help foreignborn persons make a successful transition into American democratic society.

The Immigrant Integration Lab (IIL), housed at the University’s Graduate School of Social Work, is a unique applied research center that addresses the critical issue of immigrant inclusion. The IIL draws on academic and clinical expertise to provide resources, studies and leadership to national working groups, local agencies and professional leadership that focus on immigrant integration.

Under the direction of Westy Egmont, who brings considerable experience in the humanitarian and social services fields, the lab seeks to identify avenues that affirm the worth and contribution of immigrants and emphasize the role of human intervention and the impact of

Immigrant Integration Lab Director Westy Egmont

good policy and best practices.

GSSW will formally launch the IIL with a colloquium for community leaders in the Corcoran Commons Heights Room on Dec. 14, which will feature a panel discussion on social workers’ roles in immigrant integration.

“The Immigrant Integration Lab is a timely initiative, given the welldocumented persistence of disparities between the foreign-born and native populations in the US,” said Egmont, who joined GSSW as an Continued on page 5

“While we don’t know exactly why these banks refused the funds, we do know that some high-profile bankers complained that the pay restrictions were onerous.Our study suggests that TARP may have been better designed than bankers would have you believe.”

—Assoc. Prof. Mary Ellen Carter (CSOM), page 3

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Not your average puppet show Robsham Theater will be the setting this Sunday, Dec. 2, for a one-night festival that offers a rare, wide-ranging look at the artistry of puppets.

“Puppetology: An Evening of Uncommon Theater” will be presented in Robsham’s Bonn Studio Theater at 7 p.m., by the Theatre Department in conjunction with its Rev. J. Donald Monan, SJ, Professorship in Theatre Arts, which this year is held by John Bell, a leading international authority on puppet theater and its allied artistic forms of object theater and toy theater.

Matthew Giggey ’15 will serve as production coordinator for the event, which features acclaimed artists Eric Bass, Beth Nixon, Lake Simons and the Great Small Works collective. “Puppetology” is free and open to the public, but reservations are required due to limited space.

“Puppetry is exciting because of the way it brings so many different art forms together in performance: sculpture, music, acting, playwriting,” says Bell. “It’s always open to innovations as well-new technologies, new mash-ups of intercultural elements, new mixings of high and low culture.

“People coming to ‘Puppetology’ are going to be surprised, inspired and excited about what they see: the wide range of performance forms that constitutes contemporary work

with puppets and objects.”

“We want people to know that puppets are not just for kids. We want students to know that this type of work exists,” says Theatre Department Chair and Associate Professor Scott T. Cummings. “And that dedicated artists do it for a living.

It’s a hard life, but it’s a creative life.”

Artists appearing in “Puppetology” will feature a piece from their puppet and object theater repertoire. Bass, founder and artistic director of the Sandglass Theater in Putney, Vt., will perform a selection from his award-winning solo show, “Autumn Portraits.” Nixon, of Ramshackle Enterprises in Providence, will present a “portable puppet show” drawn from her critically acclaimed Suitcase Series. Simons will debut “Portrait of Me As Others,” which explores the condition of being uncomfortable in one’s own skin and the temptation to try on new personas.

Great Small Works, featuring Bell, will perform a piece titled “Three Graces,” an op-art romp inspired by Grace Paley, Grace Kelly, Grace Jones and Grace Lee Boggs.

The New York City-based troupe draws on folk, avant-garde and popular theater traditions to address contemporary issues in performances, producing works on a variety of scales, from outdoor pageants with giant puppets and hundreds of per-

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a reward unto itself, Forget says, the thank-you notes she’s received make the experience that much better. One mother wrote that the donations “made all the difference” for her children; another family said the items they received helped them have “the greatest Christmas ever.”

A letter earlier this year from a DCF administrator expressed gratitude to BC employees for their beneficence. “You did this for children you will never see or meet,” wrote Barbara Curley. “I’ve witnessed what it means for a child who has nothing to be given something. Often times, these gifts are the only things they receive. These gifts let them know that they were remembered, and that someone cares.

“It is everything.”

—Sean Smith

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Paula Forget helping with the annual children’s clothing drive in 2000.

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One of Boston College’s most grass-roots holiday traditions turns 30 this year: the annual collection for needy children organized by Human Resources Manager Paula Forget.

Each year, Forget gets a list from the state Department of Children and Families (formerly Department of Social Services) of children — this year the number is 450 — needing basic staples, particularly clothing; the children’s names, ages and sizes are included, as well as their gift wish list. Anyone interested in ob­ taining the name of a child from the list can contact Forget at ext.2-8875 or forget@bc.edu. An expenditure of $35 per child is recommended.

The collection ends Dec. 18.

What started out as largely oneperson operation has now grown to include hundreds of BC employees, who through their generosity have provided clothing and other gifts to some 14,000 children during the past three decades.

“No person in their right mind would think at the beginning that it would last this long,” jokes Forget.

“But the people here at BC are so generous, and it’s been wonderful to see the response.”

While doing good for others is

AR

Three decades of holiday giving

Those who want to see a show at the Robsham Theater Arts Center (RTAC) can have their tickets in hand before they even leave home. RTAC recently announced the availability of print-at-home tickets for online purchases as a means to enhance customer service, says Director Howard Enoch. The print-athome option presently applies to select events, including the BC Dance Ensemble production “Ignite” (today through Dec. 1) and next month’s “Christmas Reflections” [see story on page 8].

“This is the next step in the online purchasing platform” which began last year, explains Enoch. “Online ticketing was a wonderful step forward, but even though you could purchase tickets, you still needed to pick them up at the box office.”

This new addition further professionalizes the box office and provides greater convenience for patrons, he notes. “Eventually, we will add the ability to have the ticket on a smart phone.”

Initial reactions have been positive, adds Enoch, who says plans are in the works to expand the print-at-home option to all events by the end of the academic year.

—Rosanne Pellegrini

Puppets such as those made by Eric Bass (above) will be featured at this Sunday’s “Puppetology” event in Robsham Theater.

formers to miniature “toy theater” spectacles.

General admission tickets to “Puppetology” are free and available through the Robsham Theater Arts Center Box Office, or by calling (617)552-4002. For more information, see www.bc.edu/theatre.

—Office of News & Public Affairs

Sophomores Jeff Pflanz and Jessica Zuban of the Outdoor Club of Boston College talked with students about outdoor recreational activities during the Outdoor Activity Fair, held Nov. 15 on the Plaza at O’Neill Library.

(Photo by Lee Pellegrini)

United Nations at the Heights The Model United Nations Club of Boston College will host some 200 students from more than a dozen New England high schools at a conference this Saturday, Dec. 1, in Gasson Hall.

Model UN conferences bring students from a variety of institutions together to debate issues of international importance in a simulation of UN bodies and other international institutions.

The Saturday event, “EagleMUNC,” the organization’s inaugural forum for New England high schools, will focus on political issues related to “The Troubles” in Northern Ireland.

Former Boston Police Commissioner Kathleen O’Toole ’76, who served on the landmark Patten Commission on Policing in Northern Ireland, and as chief inspector of the Irish government’s Garda Siochana Inspectorate, will present the keynote speech.

“We are delighted to welcome Kathleen O’Toole back to the Heights to address the delegates of our first conference,” said Chris Fitzpatrick ’13, the club president.

“Her unique contributions to the cause of peace in Northern Ireland are truly inspiring, and her presence will undoubtedly serve as a reminder of Boston College’s important role in the peace process.”

Sophomore Braeden Lord, who is the EagleMUNC secretary-general, added, “It is my hope that our inaugural conference challenges BC to engage in active political dialogue on recurring global themes, engaging in topics such as the Troubles in the hands-on way promoted by Model UN. Our innovative conference will establish an important and lasting BC tradition for years to come.”

Among the schools scheduled

to participate are Boston College High School, Boston University Academy, Deerfield Academy ,Seekonk High School, St. John’s Prep (Danvers), Concord (NH) High School and The Harvey School of Katonah, NY. For more on the Model UN of Boston College, see www.bc.edu/ clubs/mun.

—Office of News & Public Affairs The Boston College

Chronicle

Director of NEWS & Public Affairs

Jack Dunn Deputy Director of NEWS & Public AFFAIRS

Patricia Delaney Editor

Sean Smith Contributing Staff

Melissa Beecher Ed Hayward Rosanne Pellegrini Kathleen Sullivan Michael Maloney Photographers

Gary Gilbert Lee Pellegrini

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 News & Public Affairs, 14 Mayflower Road, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467 (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 News & Public Affairs, 14 Mayflower Road, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467.

Contact Chronicle via e-mail: chronicle@bc.edu.Electronic editions of the Boston College Chronicle are available via the World Wide Web at http://www. bc.edu/chronicle.

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Chronicle november 29, 2012

Caitlin Cunningham

TARP’s Hidden Benefit

By Ed Hayward Staff Writer

Student’s Desire to Help Takes Root As a freshman, senior Rachel Newmiller decided to lend a hand at the Campus School. The relationship has worked out well for everyone.

for blind children.

In her application to Home Depot, Newmiller described the Rachel Newmiller ’13 walked Campus School as “an incredinto the Boston College Campus ibly special place where arm School as a freshman and asked movement and the use of a hand Volunteer Coordinator Sean are causes for celebration; hope Schofield if there was some way abounds even though reality can she could help. Four years later, be overwhelming. Every day, staff she is still helping both faculty and volunteers work to fulfill the and students at the school, which school’s mission of ‘realizing the serves children with multiple dis- potential in all students.’ It is a abilities. testament to the dedication of the Newmiller recently spearhead- Campus School community that ed an effort to create and install its classrooms are brimming with adaptive flowerbeds for wheel- positivity, joy, and compassion.” chair-bound students with severe No project was as large or special needs. Funded through costly as the adaptive flowerbeds. a community grant from The Newmiller, Lessard and Rocco Home Depot’s West Roxbury researched and designed a multibranch, a small army of volun- tiered planting bed that can be teers gathered on campus earlier accessed from different sized this month to install a new multi- wheelchairs. With a design in sensory learning space outside the mind, Newmiller then applied for Campus School. and was awarded a Home Depot A Presidential Scholar and bi- “Team Depot” community grant ology major from Dresher, Pa., to fund the project. The West Newmiller came to Roxbury Home De“Being at the BC with a background pot team visited with in woodworking and Campus School the Campus School sculpture. She put three times before those skills to good helps to keep every- the installation, then use, volunteering to thing in perspec- volunteered time and create adaptive techdonated equipment to tive. It’s a really make the project posnologies. “[In high school] I incredible place.” sible. took three-dimensionThe “H”-shaped al design and several —Rachel Newmiller adaptive beds have reart classes. I enjoy the placed a structure increative outlet – espeaccessible to many at cially now that I am a science the school. As part of the plan, major. This adaptive design is a Newmiller designed a sloped table way that I can utilize that creative that will contain potted plants, so outlet in service to others,” said students who lack the ability to Newmiller. move can still touch and feel the Over the years, working with various plantings. Newmiller has Transitional Coordinator Mary recommended a wide variety of Lessard and Occupational Thera- plantings with different textures, pist Karen Rocco, Newmiller has aromas and colors to stimulate created specialized and highly different senses. individualized devices that aid “The planting boxes that are in classroom instruction. These there now were put in place many, include a custom sensory board many years ago when we had a to improve one student’s muscle very different population,” said strength and a wheelchair mount Lessard, who coordinates adaptive that can hold oratory stimulants technology at the Campus School.

“Rachel saw a problem and did something to solve it.

“It has been really fun to watch Rachel grow and mature over the years to find what is interesting and impact the world around her in a positive way.”

Check out youtube.com/bcchronicle for a video on Rachel Newmiller’s project at the Campus School

Said Newmiller, “We really can’t say enough about the support we received from the West Roxbury Home Depot. The associates we are working with have been very helpful, generous, and enthusiastic throughout this process, and we are so thankful for their assistance.”

In a statement, Home Depot said: “Team Depot programs bring together volunteerism, doit-yourself expertise and product donations as a way to meet community needs through hands-on service. Giving back is a fundamental value of The Home Depot and a passion for the West Roxbury store.”

While at BC, Newmiller has worked in the Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience Laboratory of Psychology Associate Professor Elizabeth Kensinger, served as a research assistant and fulfilled the demands of the Presidential Scholars Program. One summer, she helped maintain and build various exhibits at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC. Her varied experiences have caused her to consider consulting at private nonprofits after graduation, or pursuing a graduate degree in nonprofit management.

Newmiller said she wants to find a career that enables her to continue to give back.

“Being at the Campus School helps to keep everything in perspective. It’s a really incredible place.”

Contact Melissa Beecher at melissa.beecher@bc.edu

The executive pay provisions of TARP – the Troubled Asset Relief Program, intended to help banks weather the 2008-09 financial crisis – may have had the unintended benefit of reducing the scope of the program, according to a new report co-authored by Carroll School of Management Associate Professor of Accounting Mary Ellen Carter.

The report in the Journal of Banking, Finance & Accounting finds that pay provisions did discourage some banks from participating in TARP, according to Carter and co-authors Brian Cadman of the University of Utah and Luann J. Lynch of the University of Virginia.

Examining 263 publicly traded banks that were approved for TARP, the new study found that 35 banks rejected the funds and that this decision was related to higher levels of CEO pay. But this decision didn’t seem to hurt them – they fared just as well as their peers that did take TARP money.

As a result, the pay provisions in TARP may have deterred banks that didn’t really need the money from taking it.

“While we don’t know exactly why these banks refused the funds, we do know that some high-profile bankers complained that the pay restrictions were onerous,” Carter says. “Our study suggests that TARP may have been better designed than bankers would have you believe.”

The study also suggests that from a personal standpoint bankers may have been right to worry about TARP’s pay limits: Banks that took the funds did see higher executive turnover than those

Lee Pellegrini

Executive pay provisions may have limited scope of controversial program, says CSOM’s Carter

Rachel Newmiller ’13 with the special adaptive flowerbeds she helped create and install at the Campus School.

By Melissa Beecher Staff Writer

3

Mary Ellen Carter

that didn’t. But their performance didn’t suffer. Banks that turned down TARP money — often derisively referred to as “bailouts” — did just as much lending afterwards and had just as much financial strength, measured in terms of capital ratios, as those that accepted it.

“The restrictions gave financial incentives for bank executives to think carefully about participating and, if they did participate, to get out from underneath the program as quickly as possible,” says Carter.

TARP is widely viewed as perhaps the most controversial of the many policy measures undertaken during the financial crisis. The US government originally budgeted $700 billion and ultimately paid out about $400 billion to shore up the American financial system.

Some critics decried the program as corporate welfare while others saw it as creeping socialism. Nobody, but the bankers who needed the money, seemed to like it much.

But in the end, as Carter and other experts note, TARP appears to have succeeded: Banks, for the most part, survived the crisis and are paying back the money.

Contact Ed Hayward at ed.hayward@bc.edu

Spaziani Leaves, BC Seeks New Coach Boston College Director of Athletics Brad Bates announced Sunday that Frank Spaziani will not return as football coach of the Eagles.

In four years as head coach, Spaziani compiled a 21-29 record, including 2-10 this season. Prior to being named head coach in 2009, Spaziani served for 10 years as defensive coordinator and two as running back coach. As defensive coordinator, he was credited with producing one of the toughest defenses in college football and played a key role in Boston College’s unprecedented run of 12 consecutive winning seasons and bowl games.

“It is with gratitude that we recognize the many contributions Coach Spaziani has made to Boston College during his 16 years in Chestnut Hill,” Bates said. “He displayed unwavering dedication and loyalty to our institution and our football student-athletes, while consistently representing Boston College with class and dignity. He and his staff have devoted countless hours to our student-athletes and the BC community. We thank them and wish them well.”

Bates said Boston College would begin a search for a successor immediately, seeking “a leader whose vision of our football program mirrors the mission of our University, who values the development of our studentathletes and whose goal is to return our program to national prominence.”

—Boston College Athletics

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Biologist Seyfried Looks at Social Media on the Rise at BC from page 1 Metabolic Theory of Cancer Continued from those who run social media interacting a primary virtual identity to various cused research and treatment efforts on therapies and procedures capable of blunting mutations that During the past century, two lead to cancer. It is a daunting task, dominant views have emerged as researchers have already uncovabout the origins of cancer: a ge- ered as many as 100,000 mutanetic disease set on its course by cel- tions in the genomes of most adult lular mutations; and a disease that cancers, such as breast, ovarian, is metabolic in nature, fueled by pancreatic and brain, and are excell-damaging environmental and pected to uncover as many as one biological agents. million more mutations over the In his new book, Cancer As A next 10 years.

Metabolic Disease, Professor of BiolIn recent years, leading cancer ogy Thomas N. Seyfried offers an scientists have called for a research expansive review of the metabolic shift “toward understanding the theory of cancer, from its origins chemical reactions within cancer to current research findings to its cells,” as Nobel laureate James D. role in the development of new Watson urged in 2009. treatments and therapies in order Seyfried has focused his research to fight the deadly disease. on the damaging impact of carcinoSeyfried, a lipid biochemist, gens on the mitochondria, which has conducted research into tumor causes cellular inflammation and growth and metabolism, as well disrupts the cell’s respiratory funcas dietary approaches to “starving” tions. Some oxygen-deprived cells tumor cells so as to inhibit their die, but others survive by transgrowth. A member of the edito- forming glucose into energy, rerial boards of Lee Pellegrini sulting in a Nutrition & fermentation Metabolism, the process that Journal of Lipid yields byprodResearch, and ucts such as Neurochemical carbon dioxide Research, Seyand lactic acid. fried said he This mitowrote the book chondrial inbecause the jury, Seyfried research and says, fuels memedical comtastasis not just munities need in the form of as expansive a cells that break definition as away from the possible as to primary tumor, the origins of but in cells that a disease that become infecProf. Thomas Seyfried (Biology) has maintained tion-fighting a steady killing pace despite the white blood cells known as macrodeclaration of the War on Cancer phages or a hybrid attack cell strucin 1971. ture created from macrophages and Despite gains in research, diag- cancer cells. nosis and treatment, cancer killed As for the cause-and-effect de571,000 Americans in 2011, com- bate between the two cancer theory pared to 335,000 deaths in 1971. camps, Seyfried says research points Seyfried says the death toll requires to damaged respiratory function a revisiting of both the latest re- and fermentation as factors that search and the pioneering works then produce genomic damage. of early 20th-century scientists like Still, Seyfried and other researchOtto Warburg, who laid the foun- ers note that there are clear links dations for the metabolic theory of between some forms of cancer cancer shortly before World War I. and genetic origins, though these “This book is not for my gen- origins also involve mitochondrial eration,” said Seyfried. “This book dysfunction. is for young doctors now coming But the years of metabolic reout of medical school who are look- search Seyfried has conducted and ing for a better way to fight cancer. the studies he reviewed for the book I hope it can be a part of a new era show that restricting access to the of cancer research, diagnosis, treat- fuels needed for cancer cell growth ment and management.” (glucose and glutamine) can comContrary to the theory that can- promise cancer cell survival. Comcer is determined by genomic in- bined with lifestyle changes, therastability in the nucleus of a cell, the pies that focus on mitochondrial metabolic theory of cancer holds health could help to prevent or that cancer’s deadly path begins reduce the risk of cancer, he said. in the mitochondria, where cells generate energy.

Contact Ed Hayward at ed.hayward@bc.edu Advances in genomics have foBy Ed Hayward Staff Writer

channels,” said SMC co-chair Me“I think the question is what social media channels continues to lissa Beecher, social media manager impact has social media has on the evolve as users develop new social for the Office of News & Public Af- current generation of college stu- media channels and new ways of fairs. “They asked for support, edu- dents. It pervades their everyday. As using these channels. cation and encouragement. Each purveyors of information we need “I think the idea of a SMC department or school was operating to be conscious of how the target where these many groups can come in its own silo, reinventing the pro- audience is using the medium. We together to discuss ideas only helps cess of getting involved with social us stay relevant in this media and maintainspace,” said Werda. ing their accounts, all “The meetings have to differing degrees of been invaluable from a success. The Social number of standpoints.

Media Council is our With a growing numanswer to the growing ber of groups on camneed for social media pus using one or more support.” social media channels SMC co-chair and we can learn a great deal News & Public Affrom each other as to fairs Deputy Director how our community is Patricia Delaney exviewing and using social plained that a strong media.” social media presence Daniel Landers, a has implications both communications speon campus and becialist in the Lynch yond.

School of Education, is “The council en- 360,883 – Photo views on the Boston College Flickr page one of the newest memables us to link social 314,842 – Average weekly impressions of BC Facebook Page this month bers. media efforts hap- 56,750+ – Boston College Facebook fans “The Lynch School’s pening across campus social media efforts 25,450+ – Boston College Twitter followers divisions and work give our community a 10,375+ – Tweets from Boston College together to enhance voice in national conBC’s social pro- 871 – People who +1 Boston College on Google+ versations about theory, file. We’re excited 782 – Pins on Boston College Pinterest policy, and practice in about what has been 89 – Boston College Klout score (ninth highest in the country) the fields of applied psyaccomplished after 31 – departments now represented at the Social Media Council chology and education. only four meetings. 10 – departments at the first SMC meeting Through Facebook and In addition to draftTwitter we disseminate ing and posting guidelines for BC also have to realize the medium’s research findings, service opportunisocial media administrators, which ability to directly send messages (for ties, and theories from our students, is a first step toward development of free) to a specific group of individu- faculty, and staff to audiences across a formal policy proposal, members als — a marketer’s dream. Social the Boston College campus and the are exploring new platforms, col- media is and will continue to be a nation. laborating on initiatives and serving big part of Boston College com“It is our hope that this online as resources for one another.” munications.” social presence gives way to new conDelaney added, “There also have Student Services Senior Commu- nections and allows experts in related been tangible measures of success: nication Specialist Carolina Ritschel fields to turn to the Lynch School as BC’s strong ranking on recent surveys concurred. a resource and partner.” of social media influencers, posts that “I was thrilled when this council BC Law Marketing & Commudrew the attention of national media was put together. I felt like social nications Director Nate Kenyon said outlets to BC news items, and a recent media was something that could be he immediately saw the value in the outpouring of book donation offers important, but I did not know to SMC’s mission. generated through social media for what extent other departments were “I’m thrilled to participate in the an alumna trying to establish a library using it. To see and understand how council,” said Kenyon. “Social media for the students at her New York City useful social media is for Athletics, for is crucial in reaching our core audischool.” instance, is so interesting. The council ences these days, and to be able to Student Services Communica- brings us together, but it also helps share ideas, experiences and resources tions Specialist David Ayers, one of with a set of guidelines we should across Boston College is both enerthe founding members of the SMC, follow, which is very important,” said gizing and extremely valuable.” said Facebook, Twitter and other Ritschel.

In keeping with its efforts to platforms have changed the way he Boston College Bookstore Assis- highlight social media offerings on does his job. tant Director David Werda, another campus, News & Public Affairs “Social media is more than just SMC founding member, said that is planning a media convergence an added responsibility for me; it’s many departments – including his – website that will serve as a one-stop forethought,” said Ayers. “Every- have started to rely more and more on point of entry to BC channels. Futhing I see, hear, or understand is the ability to speak directly to students ture agenda items for the council approached with a social media lens and customers. include information sessions with in mind. It’s a bit taxing to adopt “I believe we are at a place and social media thought leaders, secuthis mentality, since it often means time where the use of social media is rity on social media channels and that one is always ‘on.’ The time- no longer an afterthought for orga- development of a proposal for a consuming nature of social media nizations but a primary method of formal University policy on social — reviewing and evaluating posts, communication. An organization’s media. Representatives from any mostly — is an unfortunate side website has traditionally been a ma- BC school or division not already effect of our cultural connected- jor place to showcase their identity. involved are welcome — just drop ness. But this is the new way of The shift from website presence as a line to social@bc.edu.

—Office of News & Public Affairs

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Chronicle november 29, 2012

Continued from page 1 adjunct faculty member four years ago. “Today’s new immigrants reflect different sociodemographic and economic backgrounds than previous immigrant groups and have been under-researched — even as the 39 million foreign-born population is expected to increase.

“Integration is a dynamic twoway process that requires both immigrant and native to accommodate each other, so as to build a robust community for the future,” said Egmont, who co-chairs the Governor’s Advisory Council on Refugees and Immigrants. “Often, it is a social worker, or perhaps a classroom teacher, who will be that first point of contact for an immigrant and thus guide the way into a new culture. The Immigrant Integration Lab seeks to help human services agencies recognize and strengthen their role in integration.

“While many think of America as the great success model in assimilating generations of immigrants, the hardships of the first generation grow with denied benefits, austerity decisions of governments and very new patterns of settlement. Immigration remains a crucial political issue at the national and local level while integration remains relatively obscure and ignored.”

At the heart of the IIL mission, according to Egmont, is a four-fold approach to immigrant inclusion known as CORE (Consulting, Organizing, Research and Educating).

This involves ongoing engagement with social and human services providers to assess their needs in fostering integration. Through CORE, the lab will offer research, training and education to aid agencies, programs, institutions and professionals in developing successful strategies for immigrant inclusion in the country’s social structures.

“The establishment of the IIL reflects the continuing internationalization of the social work field,” said Egmont, “in that social workers increasingly encounter global issues and concerns in their jobs. The Graduate School of Social Work, which has been a pioneer in international social work, is a most appropriate headquarters for the lab.”

This fall, the IIL awarded its first Immigrant Integration Fellowship to Lyndsey McMahan MSW ’14, a former community health worker in Zambia with the Peace Corps. McMahan will join the Lutheran Social Services (LSS) immigrant legal services with attorney Erin Fricker — a BC Law School graduate — to provide legal services to asylum applicants and find a way to provide essential food and shelter for the clients. As an Immigrant Integration Fellow, McMahan will

Plaudits for McNair Program

Lee Pellegrini

Center Focuses on Immigrants

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Graduate education now within reach for many students from traditionally underrepresented groups

By Melissa Beecher Staff Writer

Westy Egmont says the Immigrant Integration Lab is a reflection of “the continuing internationalization of the social work field, in that social workers increasingly encounter global issues and concerns in their jobs.” GSSW, “a pioneer in international social work, is a most appropriate headquarters for the lab.”

combine direct service, along with the larger research project of finding models of intervention and developing a best practice in the field.

She will share her findings through a paper and reports.

Egmont is the former executive director for the International Institutes of Boston and New Hampshire, New England’s leading provider of educational, employment, legal and social services to enable foreign-born persons to become self-sufficient. He also served as executive director of the Greater Boston Food Bank, hosted a Sunday morning talk show on WBZTV for 11 years, and created a multi-media exhibit, “Dreams of Freedom,” about the history of immigration to Boston. He holds a doctorate from the Andover Newton Theological School.

“Focusing on the integration of immigrants reflects GSSW’s local and global commitment,” said GSSW Dean Alberto Godenzi.

“The unrivaled diversity of today’s immigrant populations allows us to see the world through the eyes of others. To study facilitators and inhibitors of integration and naturalization honors our country’s tradition of being an open and inclusive society. It is extremely fortunate for

us that Westy Egmont, one of the thought leaders of immigrant integration policies in the US, signed on to lead this effort for the GSSW.” Egmont will present closing remarks at the Dec. 14 colloquium, which will include a keynote speech

by Demetrios Papademetriou, president and founder of the Migration Policy Institute, a nonpartisan, nonprofit Washington, DC, think tank dedicated exclusively to the study of international migration.

Boston Foundation President Paul Grogan will serve as moderator for the panel discussion “How Can Social Workers Strengthen Immigrant Integration?” with Massachusetts Department of Children and Families Commissioner Angelo McClain, Boston Rising Executive Director Tiziana Dearing and Thrive in Five Executive Director Jane Tewksbury.

Other speakers include GSSW’s Godenzi and Eva Millona, executive director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition. Co-sponsoring the event with GSSW are the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition and The Boston Foundation.

Contact Sean Smith at sean.smith@bc.edu

Graduate School of Social Work Associate Professor of Macro Practice Marylou Sudders has been appointed to the Massachusetts Health Commission Board, which will monitor the reform of Massachusetts health care delivery in an effort to reduce costs and improve quality.

“It is an honor, and an awesome responsibility, to represent behavioral health and Boston College on this independent health policy commission,” said Sudders, who chairs the GSSW Health and Mental Health Concentration.

“Health care spending is often debated and rarely tackled. This commission has the unique opportunity to focus on value and quality rather than volume and quantity. Mental health and substance abuse has often been marginalized by mainstream health care. As the behavioral health appointee, it is my responsibility that our work improves access and availability of behavioral health at the same time we curb overall health care spending.”

Sudders served as the Massachusetts Commissioner of Mental Health for seven years, then as president and CEO of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, a private non-profit advocating for the rights and well-being of children and their families.

—Sean Smith

While a student at Boston College, Grace Festin Caldara ’08 knew she wanted to become involved in research, but didn’t know where to start. Coming from a low-income family, she simply lacked the resources.

The Ronald E. McNair PostBaccalaureate Achievement Program changed that.

Now a fifth-year chemical biology PhD candidate at the University of California, Festin Caldara credits the McNair Program with helping expose her to the rigors of academe.

By the time she graduated BC, Festin Caldara had spent two summers on campus working in a chemistry lab, co-authored two publications and traveled to the University of New Hampshire, the University of California and Knoxville, Tenn., for various conferences where she presented her research.

“The greatest benefit from the program was the support from the directors in allowing me to do my research and in providing me the resources to help me succeed,” said Festin Caldara.

Funded by the US Department of Education in some 200 institutions across the US and Puerto Rico, and established at BC in 2003, the McNair Program prepares undergraduates from underrepresented groups to attain graduate and doctoral degrees, enabling them to enter careers in research and academia.

It has helped hundreds of students who are either low-income or the first in their family to attend college to continue educational pursuits.

The program is named for the late Dr. Ronald E. McNair, who overcame social and economic barriers to earn a PhD from MIT at age 26, and become the second AfricanAmerican to go into space. He was one of the seven crew members killed aboard the Challenger space shuttle.

McNair Program Assistant Director Rossanna Contreras-Godfrey says stories like Festin Caldara’s are common.

“Once students complete the program, we see a level of confidence and direction that they didn’t have when they applied,” said Contreras-Godfrey. “Many simply are unaware of what is out there. What we do is plant a seed and support its growth. In doing that, we help our students realize and achieve their research and academic goals.”

Upon acceptance into the program, McNair scholars are paired with a faculty mentor. Members of the faculty oversee research opportunities, provide assessment and give advice about workshops,

Dan Bunch, Rossanna ContrerasGodfrey (right) and Paula Grealish administer the McNair Program at BC. (Photo by Caitlin Cunningham)

graduate school and the application process. McNair students enjoy special library privileges at BC, including graduate student borrowing status and an assigned librarian to assist with research needs. They are encouraged to pursue research projects over the summer and present at undergraduate symposia both at BC and around the country.

Dan Bunch, director of the University’s Learning to Learn Program, which administers the McNair Program, said the success of the program is in large part due to faculty partners who help students one-on-one.

“Rossanna has done a great job recruiting faculty members who work hard to shape and encourage the research of students who – until now – have not had exposure to this type of work,” Bunch said. “The support we have enjoyed across the disciplines and from the Provost’s office has been a testament to BC.” Vice Provost for Undergraduate Academic Affairs Donald Hafner notes that this year, McNair has placed particular emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

“Both [Provost and Dean of Faculties Cutberto Garza] and I see great potential in this McNair Exploratory-STEM program, in supporting students who might otherwise become discouraged about their prospects in the sciences and in testing innovative approaches to instruction in the sciences that might be adopted more widely.

“This is a wonderful pilot venture, and our colleagues in biology, chemistry, and the McNair Scholars Program deserve great credit for designing the program and carrying it through on their own initiative,” said Hafner.

For more information, see http:// www.bc.edu/offices/ltl/mcnair

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Ashok Earns Marshall

Continued from page 1 shall Committee and my fellow the Harvard Stem Cell Institute Marshall Scholars are inspiring; I and as a volunteer at Rosie’s Place know I can learn so much from and the Laboure Center in South them, particularly by studying in Boston.

Glasgow, which is infamous for After graduating in May, he health disparities that are repli- served a three-month internship cated only in the United States.” at the White House in the Office The award is the fourth Mar- of National AIDS Policy, and shall Scholarship won by Bos- has spent the fall working at the ton College students in the past National Human Genome Redecade, coinciding with two search Institute and participating Rhodes Scholarships, two Mel- in one of the National Institutes lon Scholarships, one Churchill of Health’s health disparities proscholarship, six Truman Scholar- grams. ships, nine Goldwater ScholarFounders Professor of Theships, 15 Beckman Scholarships ology and Presidential Scholars and 173 undergraduate Fulbright Program Director James F. Keenawards, among other prestigious an, SJ, who worked closely with awards that BC stuAshok throughout dents have earned “The Marshall Scholar- the application between 2002 and process, praised ship will provide me 2012. him for his unwav“The George with an opportunity to ering commitment Marshall Scholar- better understand health to helping those in ship is a mark of need. national distinc- disparities that exist be“Adi lives a tion, given that so tween the United States profound human few are awarded sympathy for those and the UK.” annually in the who are vulner—Aditya Ashok able, tries to find United States,” said Vice Provost for out where and how Undergraduate Ache can best use his ademic Affairs Donald Hafner, talents to respond to human chalwho directs the University Fellow- lenges, and thinks very strategiships Committee. “The awards cally,” said Fr. Keenan. “He has are highly competitive, and Adi’s developed his many, wide-rangsuccess underscores not only the ing gifts in thoroughly impressive caliber and dedication of BC ways with confidence, care and undergraduates, but also Boston commitment. I am proud of him College’s commitment to help- for winning the Marshall Scholing qualified students pursue these arship, and am sure he will be valuable opportunities.” among BC’s most accomplished A Presidential Scholar, and and dedicated alumni.” history and biology major while Ashok says he aspires to career at Boston College, Ashok distin- in public service, a passion that guished himself through his ac- was ignited during his four years ademic achievement and HIV/ at Boston College. “Boston ColAIDS activism, serving as co- lege played a major role in shappresident of the AIDS Awareness ing how my interests developed.

Committee at Boston College, I came to BC to focus on HIV/ and director of international out- AIDS, and the mentors I had, reach at the Virginia-based Teen such as Fr. Keenan and AssociAIDS-Peer Corp. ate Professor of History Virginia During his years at BC, Ashok Reinburg, had the patience to also served as a columnist for the help me find my calling. Without independent student newspaper, them and the support I received The Heights, science editor for the from Boston College, I would student research journal Elements, not have had an opportunity to and co-coordinator of the Men- win the Truman or the Marshall del Society Mentoring Program, scholarships.” while also working as an intern at

Five Earn All-ACC Honors Boston College football players Alex Amidon ’14, Nick Clancy ’13, Emmett Cleary ’13, Gerald Levano ’13 and Kevin PierreLouis ’14 have earned All-Atlantic Coast Conference honors.

Amidon and Clancy each earned first-team recognition.

Cleary earned second-team accolades. Levano and Pierre-Louis each earned honorable mention laurels.

The announcement of the All-ACC team was made earlier this week by the 46-member Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association.

For more, see http://bit.ly/Rg6glY. —Boston College Athletics

“In the best Jesuit tradition, Demetrius has kept his focus on helping those whom society tends to neglect, and he’s always reminded his students of the importance of doing that.”

—Barry Bluestone

Graduate School of Social Work faculty member Demetrius Iatridis with former Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis, who spoke at a retirement celebration for Iatridis Nov. 12. (Photo from Christopher Soldt, Media Technology Services)

A Voice for Social Justice

After 46 years, Demetrius Iatridis prepares to leave GSSW — but he’s not done helping those who are less fortunate

By Sean Smith Chronicle Editor

After coming of age in a crucible of war and destruction, Demetrius Iatridis has spent his adult life seeking to foster a world built on cooperation and compassion for those in need.

Iatridis will retire next month after 46 years as a faculty member in the Graduate School of Social Work, with a reputation as an esteemed researcher and teacher in social policy and social welfare. He’s also been hailed as a pioneer in bringing an international context to social work, particularly for his study of former communist nations’ efforts to build social services systems in a market economy.

“Professor Iatridis influenced the learning of countless students during his long tenure at GSSW,” says GSSW Dean Alberto Godenzi. “In his teaching and scholarly work, he underscored the crucial role of policies and critical thinking. His voice will be missed in local conversations focused on social justice as well as in global debates around issues of poverty and exclusion.”

Godenzi, along with GSSW faculty, staff and alumni, as well as special guests, honored Iatridis Nov. 12 in the Heights Room of Corcoran Commons. The event featured a keynote speech from former Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis and a panel discussion.

“He’s always been concerned with those who people who are disadvantaged, who have fallen behind,” says Barry Bluestone, a former Boston College faculty member who is now director of Northeastern University’s Dukakis Center for Urban and Regional Policy, and

who participated in the Nov. 12 panel.

“In the best Jesuit tradition, Demetrius has kept his focus on helping those whom society tends to neglect, and he’s always reminded his students of the importance of doing that. That’s why so many of us respect him so much.”

Iatridis came to his beliefs the hard way. He was only 16 when the Nazis invaded and occupied his native Greece in World War II. On his own, he escaped to the island of Crete, but found it no safer there, and was forced to hide in the mountains until he was able to flee by boat to Egypt. Lying about his age, he joined the Greek air force and served as a tail-gunner. During the war, he lost his mother and grandmother.

His experiences, Iatridis says, made him want a different world, and ultimately a different path for himself. “I had prepared to go into aeronautical engineering,” he recalls, “until I decided that the world would not be built by aircraft engineers but by mutual aid, collaborative programs to prevent other wars. Instead of seeing the powerful always defeating and dominating the powerless, I wanted to help the powerless become powerful. This became my goal.”

After the war, Iatridis aided United Nations’ efforts to help children in his country affected by the conflict, and the UN sent him to the US to observe its social welfare system. Iatridis went on to earn degrees from Washington and Jefferson College, the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work and the Bryn Mawr School of Social Work, then returned to Greece for a while to help assist in establish-

ing a graduate school of planning.

Iatridis eventually came to BC in 1966 as director of its new Institute of Human Sciences, founded by then-University President Michael Walsh, SJ. “The social sciences were still a relatively new field,” he says, “and Fr. Walsh envisioned the institute as a potential strength for BC, in the way that engineering or architectural studies was for MIT. The social scientists he brought in all were given joint appointments, and mine was in GSSW.” After six years, the institute was viewed as having achieved its goals, Iatridis says, and was disbanded, and he became a full-time GSSW faculty member.

“I was skeptical when I first came to BC. I didn’t know about Jesuits, and whether their beliefs would align with mine. But I found BC was a very good fit, and I was able do things I might not have an opportunity to do so otherwise.”

For years, Iatridis taught classes comparing social policy in capitalist and communist societies, and led students on visits to Cuba so they could draw their own conclusions.

He also invited Cuban social services experts to speak at BC. Such practices were not without controversy in the Cold War era: Some critics thought this amounted to an endorsement of communism.

“My point was, ‘What can we learn from the way these countries practice social policy?’” says Iatridis. “Nobody, as far as we knew, was looking into this. The students would decide for themselves what was effective and what wasn’t, and they would have to account for and justify their positions. There was nothing ideological about it.”

Continued on next page

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WELCOME ADDITIONS Assistant Professor of Biology Tim van Opijnen will join the University full-time next month, following a six-year stint as a post-doctoral research associate in the Department of Microbiology at Tufts University School of Medicine.

He specializes in microbial systems biology, focusing on drug-gene interaction networks and the development of new anti-microbial drugs; the development of genome-wide sequencing strategies to link genotypes to phenotypes; and the engineering of bacteria with new traits and novel applications. His research has been published in numerous journals, including Genome Research, Nature Methods, and the Journal of Virology. Van Opijnen, who earned his PhD from the University of Amsterdam, writes columns and books about science for popular audiences in the Netherlands and is the founder and editor of the award-winning Dutch website Sciencepalooza.

Carroll School of Management Associate Professor of Management and Organization Mary Tripsas’ research and teaching focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and strategy. In particular, she has examined how new technology — including digital imaging, the evolution of the typesetter industry, eBooks, air taxis and musical innovation — has transformed industry and the impact of those changes on organizational identity. Prior to joining the Carroll School, Tripsas served as a faculty member at Harvard Business School and The Wharton School. Tripsas, who earned her doctorate at MIT’s Sloan School of Management, was a strategy consultant with Monitor Group and worked for IBM before entering academia.

Assistant Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences Seth Kruckenberg specializes in areas such as structural geology, tectonics, geochronology, and the textural and magnetic fabric analyses of soil and sediments. His field research has examined geological phenomenon in the US, Greece, Turkey and Antarctica. His most recent research has appeared in the journals Tectonics, Journal of Metamorphic Geology and the Journal of Structural Geology. Kruckenberg earned his PhD in geology at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and was a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Wisconsin, where he also served as a visiting instructor.

—Ed Hayward Photos by Lee Pellegrini “Welcome Additions,” an occasional feature, profiles new faculty members at Boston College.

NOTA BENE School of Theology and Ministry Associate Professor Nancy Pineda-Madrid was honored by the Loretto Academy in El Paso, Tex., with the Loretto Legacy Award in Religion and Theology for her scholarship on the women in Juárez, Mexico, including her book Suffering and Salvation in Ciudad Juárez.

The award was presented at an event recognizing the Sisters of Loretto’s 200th anniversary as a religious order in the US. She has also been asked to serve as the Catholic Theological Society of America representative to The International Network of Societies for Catholic Theology.

Associate Professor of Physics Willie J. Padilla has been elected a fellow of the Optical Society of America, a nearly 100-year-old organization that brings together scientists, engineers, educators and business leaders in the fields of optics and photonics.

Padilla, who has engineered unique nanoscale metamaterials capable of manipulating light in novel ways, was elected for his “fundamental contributions to metamaterials, including first demonstrations of negative refractive index, metamaterial opto-electronic control and perfect absorbers.”

Newsmakers The Obama administration has responded to Chinese assertiveness by reinforcing US military and diplomatic links to the AsiaPacific, to much acclaim at home and in the region. But Prof. Robert Ross (Political Science), writing in Foreign Affairs, explained that the “pivot” is based on a serious misreading of its target, and contended that Washington should work to assuage China’s anxieties, not exploit them.

Legislators should make the duties owed by all corporations to employees, society, and the environment “clear and enforceable,” according to Prof. Kent Greenfield (Law), whose views were cited in the “Ideas” section of the Boston Sunday Globe.

Assoc. Prof. Jonathan Laurence (Political Science), currently a Daimler Fellow at the American Academy in Berlin, looked at the degree to which Muslims in Europe have become truly emancipated, US democratization policy in the Middle East and North Africa, and other issues in a series of op-eds for German newspapers Der Tagesspiegel, Die Tageszeitung and Süddeutsche Zeitung.

Writing for the WBUR-FM blog Cognoscenti, Asst. Prof. Richard Albert (Law) discussed the likelihood of Rick Santorum running

7

for the GOP presidential nomination again.

WCVB-TV’s “Chronicle” featured the work of Navyn Salem ’94, Hon.’12 and her efforts to fight childhood hunger in Africa through her company Edesia, the sole US manufacturer and promoter of Plumpy’nut peanut paste, which is specifically formulated to combat malnutrition.

BC BRIEFING A basic tenet of democracy is that the preferences and needs of all citizens should receive equal consideration, but in a co-authored letter to the New York Times “Sunday Dialogue,” Moakley Professor of Political Science Kay Lehman Schlozman said equal consideration is jeopardized if political voice — expressed when citizens vote, contact public officials, protest, support political organizations, donate to campaigns or otherwise take part in political life — is unequal.

Prof. James Steven Rogers (Law) discussed with Bloomberg News the ramifications of damage caused by flooding from Hurricane Sandy to stock and bond certificates held in an underground Manhattan vault owned by the Depository Trust

Iatridis to Retire from GSSW Continued from page 6 On one trip, Iatridis met for half an hour with Fidel Castro.

“He wanted to know if social work was appropriate for Cuba and the revolution,” says Iatridis. “I said, ‘It depends. If you want to increase participation of people in decisionmaking, it’s your best model. It does not work well in dictatorships.’ A few years later, he established social work as a profession in Cuba.”

With the fall of many communist governments during 1989-90, Iatridis saw a new area of exploration in the changed geopolitical landscape. He organized several major conferences to examine the challenges faced by former Soviet Bloc nations in building social service systems in a market economy, and co-published an accompanying series of books.

“This was a tremendous opportunity to put social work in the forefront of a major world development,” says Iatridis, who credits then-University President J. Donald Monan, SJ, and the late Executive Vice President Frank B. Campanella for supporting his efforts.

“The conferences and the books were very well-received. It was very

good exposure for GSSW and BC.” But Iatridis kept a local focus, too. He founded GSSW’s “Boston Day” event at the Boston Redevelopment Authority, which gave students the opportunity to form ties with city authorities and neighborhood leaders. He also served on University committees, including 27 years — 15 of them as chair — on the Faculty Compensation Committee. In 2000, he was selected for a Distinguished Service Award from BC. Iatridis has no plans to be idle after leaving GSSW. “I am going to spend probably 50 percent of my time volunteering for anti-poverty programs or projects. Sadly, poverty has only increased in recent years, but even in the election campaign you didn’t hear anyone talk about this.

“The poverty and inequality I saw after World War II was the reason I went into social work, and I am going to continue to help the powerless.”

—Material from Regina O’Grady-Leshane was used in this story

& Clearing Corp.

Richard McGowan, SJ, a faculty member in the Carroll School of Management and Economics Department, co-authored “Grass is Always Greener When it’s Legal: Policies for State Regulated Marijuana” in The Economists’ Voice.

Publications Prof. Emeritus Harvey D. Egan, SJ (Theology), published “In Purgatory We Are All Mystics” in Theology Studies.

Time and a Half At the American Studies Association convention, held in Puerto Rico, Assoc. Prof. Christina Klein (English) presented “Budae Jjigae Cinema: Poaching as a Postwar Korean Cultural Style,” while Adj. Asst. Prof.

Lori Harrison-Kahan (English) gave a talk on the keyword “race” as part of the session “Is There a Place for Jewishness in American Studies? A Keywords Roundtable,” which she co-organized.

JOBS 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/: Assistant Director, Law School Student Services Research Economist, Center for Retirement Research Director, Event Management, Auxiliary Services Assistant Manager, Dining Services Associate Director of Operations, Residential Life Assistant Director, Graphic Design & Production, Office of Marketing Communications Assistant Director, Housing Assignments & Occupancy, Residential Life Senior Information Security Analyst, Information Technology Manager, Information Systems, Center for Corporate Citizenship Administrative Assistant, Mathematics Department Technology Manager, Residential Life Staff Psychologist, University Counseling Director of Annual Giving for Marketing & Participation, Development Office Information Systems Manager, Center for Corporate Citizenship Social Media Manager, Advancement Communications & Marketing

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LOOKING AHEAD Campus Set to Ring In Holiday Season Events

The Boston College Christmas tree won’t be ablaze with light until next week, but seasonal festivities are underway on campus.

This weekend, the University Chorale and Symphony Orchestra present their annual Christmas concert, conducted by John Finney, which features traditional carols and Christmas music. The performances take place in Trinity Chapel on Newton Campus on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 at 8 p.m., and on Dec. 2 at 2 p.m.

Admission is $10; $5 with Boston College ID; tickets are available at the Robsham Theater Arts Center Box Office, ext.2-4002.

Also under Finney’s direction, on Dec. 4, members of the University Chorale will present a free concert of traditional Christmas music in St. Mary’s Chapel at 4 p.m. For information e-mail concerts@bc.edu or call the Music Department at ext.2-6004.

The University’s traditional Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, officiated by University President William P. Leahy, SJ, will take place Dec. 5 from 5-7 p.m. on the Plaza at O’Neill Library. The spirited annual event will once again bring together BC

BC SCENES

Wind Ensemble will perform “A Christmas Festival of Music,” conducted by Director of Bands Sebastian Bonaiuto. The program includes such classics as Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker,” and Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride” and the concert title piece, “A Christmas Festival.” The event is free; for information contact the Bands Office at ext.2-3018 or bands@bc.edu.

Caitlin Cunningham

By Rosanne Pellegrini Staff Writer

Upcoming holiday events at Boston College include the annual Christmas tree-lighting (above), and a concert of Irish music, songs and stories featuring Marian Makins (above right) and Gabriel Donohue.

community members and special guest Santa Claus, who will pose for pictures. Students, faculty, staff and their families can enjoy treats — including cookiedecorating and hot chocolate — and carols, with entertainment by BC’s Bell Choir and other musical groups such as the Acoustics, Bostonians and Dynamics.

At 6:30 p.m. that same evening in the Walsh Hall Function Room, the Gaelic Roots Music, Song, Dance, Workshop and Lecture Series will present “A Christmas Gathering: Irish Music, Songs and Stories,” with

singer/multi-instrumentalist Gabriel Donohue and singer Marian Makins, as well as Sullivan Artistin-Residence Seamus Connolly and BC students. The concert is free. For information, contact the Center for Irish Programs at ext.26396 or irish@bc.edu.

A seasonal favorite, the Alumni Association’s annual “Winter Wonderland” moves to a new location this year — the Cadigan Alumni Center on Brighton Campus — when it takes place Dec. 8 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. This special holiday event for alumni, family and friends includes such

festivities as strolling carolers, crafts, entertainment by Johnny the K, photographs with Santa, a live petting zoo, horse-drawn carriage rides and a special visit from children’s author Tomie dePaola.

Admission is $25 per group of six, and $5 for each additional attendee; $5 of each group fee will benefit the St. Columbkille Partnership School. For information, e-mail alumni.comments@bc.edu or call at ext.2-4700. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held on Dec. 9.

Also on Dec. 8, at 8 p.m. in Gasson 100, the University

The following weekend, the Robsham Theater Arts Center will host “Christmas Reflections,” a celebration of the Christmas season through the performance of music, story and dance. Shows will take place Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. and on Dec. 15 and 16 at 3 p.m. The production features choreography by Jesuit Artist-inResidence Robert VerEecke, SJ, with Irish step dance choreography by Helen O’Dwyer ’97, who directs the O’Dwyer School of Irish Dancing. Admission to the event, sponsored by the Institute for the Liberal Arts and Robsham Theater, is $15. For information email frvereec@bc.edu or call ext.2-6110.

For more on campus events, see the University Calendar at events. bc.edu.

Contact Rosanne Pellegrini at rosanne.pellegrini@bc.edu

GIVING THANKS Photos by Lee Pellegrini

Members of the Boston College community gathered Nov. 15 in the Heights Room of Corcoran Commons for the annual Multi-Faith Thanksgiving Celebration. The event featured prayers, readings and songs from the Christian, Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu traditions, given by students, faculty and staff. Among those who spoke were Director of Campus Ministry Fr. Tony Penna, BC Law School Dean Vincent Rougeau (below) and Linda Reams, senior receptionist in the Office of Undergraduate Admission.