Recently in Feature Category

by Gary B. Cohen, chair

The University of Minnesota History Department has for decades prided itself on the scholarly achievements and renown of its faculty. Yet time and again the very same colleagues who have won accolades for their research have earned the highest distinctions for their teaching and advising. During this past year, we were particularly proud that Erika Lee won the Arthur "Red" Motley Exemplary Teaching Award in the College of Liberal Arts; Thomas Wolfe, the University of Minnesota Council of Graduate Students (COGS) Outstanding Faculty Award; and Kirsten Fischer, the Horace T. Morse - University of Minnesota Alumni Association Award for Undergraduate Education.

By Ted Farmer, professor emeritus

The fall 1999 issue of our department's annual newsletter featured a photo of six "senior colleagues" gathered in the Ford Room. I was in that photo. I took it as a gentle hint that it was time we should be moving on. Now, more than 10 years later, I have just participated in the retirement celebration of my 43 years of service in the Department of History and I am grateful for this opportunity to offer a few observations and reflections.

Today's undergraduate experience entails much more than just coursework. Students are involved in cultural and leadership organizations, service learning and volunteerism, internships and study abroad. And for our most ambitious students, the opportunity to conduct research is a highly sought-after experience.

Undergraduates benefit from the University of Minnesota's status as one of the world's great research universities, giving students the chance to work closely with a faculty mentor. Through research, students challenge themselves, learn more about their strengths and interests, and explore possible career paths.

On 13 February 2009, over 100 colleagues, associates, friends, and family members young and old came together in the new offices of the Department of History in Heller Hall to express their appreciation and best wishes at a farewell banquet for Suzanne Haskins. This was a most fitting celebration in honor of a person who for 40 years had played a crucial role in the operation, growth, and transformation of the Department. The variety of people attending, including several emeriti professors, were pleasant reminders of the long and wide ranging impact of Sue Haskins as an associate, mentor, and friend. The following is an excerpt from the speech delivered by Professor Theofanis G. Stavrou, Director of Modern Greek Studies:

By Theofanis Stavrou

One hundred fifty years ago on May 11, 1858, the Territory of Minnesota joined the Union as the 32nd state. Since then, Minnesotans have been leaving their mark on the region and the nation.