University of Minnesota, Crookston News

Visiting Scholar Yingying Chen from Zhejiang Economic and Trade Polytechnic, Hangzhou, China, Says Goodbye

Mon, 20 May 2013 08:53:31 -0600

Her time on campus has come to a close, but Yingying Chen (in photos)will take back to China many

lessons from her time on the Crookston campus as a visiting scholar. Chen came to the Business Department at the University of Minnesota Crookston in late January 2013 from Zhejiang Economic and Trade Polytechnic (ZJETP), in Hangzhou China. The U of M Crookston established an international partnership with ZJETP in late 2005 to enhance opportunities for students to study and faculty to work collaboratively and Chen, the director of finance and insurance teaching and research at ZJETP.

It was Chen's first time in the United States, and when she arrived, she was immediately impressed by the welcome and the helpfulness of others who introduced her to the Crookston campus. She is particularly grateful to Susan Brorson, head of the Business Department for the opportunity to be involved in a variety of learning environments.

Brorson enjoyed the opportunity to host Chen. "It has been a pleasure to host Yingying Chen as a visiting scholar from ZJETP, one of our international partners," Brorson says. "Although she came to learn more about the U.S., the U of M Crookston, and teaching, we have learned much about China and ZJEPT from her."

Chen and Brorson have discussed the potential of additional collaborative efforts between business programs in both universities.

The opportunity has been a powerful one for Chen. "I will use what I learned about the different styles of classroom teaching here when I return to my own classroom," Chen says. "I enjoyed the personalized, student-oriented teaching style that inspires students to learn more self-consciously, independently, and produces a good result."

Chen observed classes in macro economics, managerial finance, risk management and insurance, and principles of management, Internet marketing, principles of marketing, along with some online courses. She has also presented to groups on economic growth in China, Chinese history, culture, geography, and demographics. These presentations she says "helped her to make comparisons between the two countries and allowed her to interact with students from different countries and backgrounds on campus."

Chen is also grateful to Kimberly Gillette and the faculty in Business Department. "I appreciate their help," she says. "And, I am thankful they allowed me to observe classes and have a chance to learn their diverse, distinctive teaching method."

She participated in campus assembly, department meetings, and online course meetings that provided her the opportunity to learn more about shared governance, campus management, and more. Chen also compared the management of a typhoon in Zhejiang province to the flood insurance offered in Minnesota. The opportunity for deeper discussions with business instructors Ken Bulie, Les Johnson, and Oxana Weiland gave her ideas and provided her with inspiration to further her research.

As a visiting scholar, Chen offered assistance to the Confucius Institute site located on the Crookston campus, working with Chunhui Wang, the institute's assistant director, to build a better understanding of Chinese culture and the Chinese language.

Her last day on the Crookston campus was Friday, May 17, but she is not leaving the United States yet. She is headed to the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis to continue her research, and she says she is sorry to go because of the many wonderful relationships she has made and the great learning experience she has had while she was here.

Today the University of Minnesota Crookston delivers 27 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 39 concentrations on campus--as well as 10 degrees online--in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology. With an enrollment of 1,800 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree. "Small Campus. Big Degree." To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Spring 2013 Student Awards Ceremony Recognizes Achievement in Academics, Athletics, Service, and Leadership

Wed, 01 May 2013 11:59:29 -0600

The annual Student Awards Program, a celebration of student service, leadership, and academic and athletic achievement, was held recently at the University of Minnesota Crookston. Assistant Professor Denis Maier, who teaches in the Business Department, was the 2012 Outstanding Educator and hosted this year's recognition.

Visit the online photo album.

Award recipients include the following students:

CSA Student Senators and Officers

Brooke Novak; Ross Sigler; Bryce Gillie; Aaron Soltau, Heather Rodriguez; Mariah Gautsche; Emily Goff; Molly Sheehan; Anthonette Sims; and Gyaltso Gurung, Laura Gabrielson; Ashlynn Hartung; Alexmai Addo; Adam Switzer; Kayla Bellrichard; and Shaolei "Sorry" Jin.

Outstanding Ambassadors

Catlin Kersting, Tashi Gurung, Sam Zuck, Katie Hagen, Sarah Morris, Jordan Melbye

Tony Taylor, Kevin Lamp, Alex Skeeter, Alissa Hernandez, Jessica Girgen, Mikala Guidinger

Sorry Jin, Danny Lee, Bryce Gillie, Justin Goodroad

Ambassador of the Year Award

Bryce Gillie

Outstanding First-Year Biology Award

Ashley Martell

Outstanding Future Educator Award

Dabitna Chung, Amy Van Treeck

Marketing/ Management Academic Achievement Award

Dain Park and Alex Buscher

Marketing/Management Outstanding Leadership Award

Dain Park, Abbey Wemimo, Hannah Reysen, Kayla Bellrichard

Distinguished Service to the Accounting Program

Dae Yeul "Danny" Lee

Outstanding SRM Student

Kari Bodine

Outstanding Communication Student

Jessica Stuber

Outstanding Communication Minor

Connie Vandermay

SOS Service Award

Alexmai Addo, Catilin Kersting

Outstanding SOS Leader

Almir Krdzalik

Peer Connection Service Award

Alexmai Addo and Brooke Novak

Peer Mentor of the Year Award

Catlin Kersting

Regal Spirit Award

Kayla Bellrichard, and Tyler Lowithan

Outstanding Turfgrass Student Award

Kyle Kreklow, Kurtis Wacker, Joey Schmidt, with Kristie Walker

Norman Pankratz Memorial Conservation Award

Jenny DuBay

John Polley Soil and Water Conservation Award

Trent Brenny and Andrew Albertsen with Dan Svedarsky

The Wildlife Society Travel Award

Alisha Mosloff

Outstanding Animal Science

Sara Scott (pre-vet)

Outstanding Equine Science

Jess Charles (pre-vet)

Outstanding Ag Business Student

Amanda Crook

Outstanding ASM Student

Leonard Will and Matt Green

Outstanding Horticulture

Ashlynn Hartung

NACTA Recognition

Meats Team: Dustin Wiese, Katie Hagen, Justin Goodroad and Derek Suhonen

Ag Business Dustin Smith, Katie Hagen, Matt Green, and Kayla Erickson

Ag Computers: Cedric Citrowske, Amanda Crook, Drew Underdahl and Brian Oachs

Outstanding International Student Scholars Award

Ashley Yun Zhor; Brennan Andreas; Danny Lee; and Tashi Gurung

Learning Abroad Office Ambassador Awards

Tim Baker; Amanda Corneliussen; and DeAndra O'Connell

Support of Diversity Award

Outstanding Theater Student Award

Liz Massie

Tyler Lowithan

Nathan Anderson

Outstanding Music Service Award

Rebecca Apitz

Miah Smith

Outstanding Writing Tutor

Rowenna Fillmore

Computer Help Desk

Melissa Freitag

Student Employee of the Year

Adam Hoff

Female and Male Student Athlete of the Year

Chelsea Wiesner and Almir Kradzlik

Female and Male Outstanding Athlete of the Year

Brittany Wiese and Brittany Looker and Richard Haley

Justin Knebel Memorial Award

Broderick Schmidt

Dale Knotek Community Service Award - Delta Theta Sigma (DTS)

Joshua Bruggman, Tim Lee, Brett Carlson, Clayton Lenk, Aaron Soltau, Marcus Twaddle

Kasey Okke, Adam Switzer, Dan Kimm, Hannah Reysen, Sami Benoy, Evan Boreen, Amanda Corneliussen, Brittany Fox

Presidents Volunteer Service Award

Megan Luxford, Chia Moua, Kari Bodine, Bailey Stratton (online student), Katie Nenn, Kevin Lamp Tony Taylor, Krista Kenyon, Emily Goff, Alexmai Addo, Catlin Kersting, Kayla Bellrichard, Alissa Hernandez, Almir Krdzalic Kasey Okke, Sean Rozell, Tyler Lowthian, Bryce Gillie, Ross Sigler

Student Volunteer of the Year Award

John Niemczyk with Lisa Loegering

Student Programmer of the Year

Ashley Hoffman

Outstanding CSA Senator

Alexmai Addo

Outstanding CSA Voting Delegate Award

Megan Luxford

Faculty and Staff Awards

Outstanding Educator

Ron Del Vecchio

Most Supportive of Students

Phil Baird

Outstanding Service to Students

Lisa Samuelson

Student Achievement Awards

en Williams, Bryce Gillie, Almir Krzadlic, Matt Green

Krista Kenyon, Tashi Gurung, Abbey Wemimo, Brooke Novak

Alexmai Addo, Danny Lee, Sam Zuck- Roscoe, and Alex Skeeter

Man and Woman of Year

Dae Yuel Danny Lee and Sam Zuck-Roscoe

Athletic All-Academic Team - 3.2 GPA or higher and lettering in the same sport for two years

Rachelle Alcini - Women's Soccer

Matthew G. Borowicz - Football

Carli Bunning - Women's Basketball

Karen Carpenedo - Equestrian - Western

Jessica Charles - Equestrian - Hunt Seat

Jensen Crots - Women's Soccer

Zach D. Cymbaluk - Men's Golf

Amanda Krueger - Equestrian - Western

Kelly Gustofson - Women's Golf

Rachel Halligan - Women's Soccer

Shelby Hollinger - Softball

Jesse Jennings - Baseball

Caitlin Kelley - Equestrian - Western

Samantha Kramer - Equestrian - Hunt Seat

Almir Krdzalic - Men's Basketball

Brittany Looker - Women's Volleyball

Stacey Marcum - Softball

Ashley Martell - Women's Basketball

Myint Maung- Football

Keith McBride - Football

Erin Mears - Women's Soccer

Mary Mikutowski - Women's Volleyball & Golf

Brooks Miller - Baseball

Hannah Nedrud - Equestrian - Hunt Seat

Amanda Overman - Equestrian - Hunt Seat

Casey Paris - Women's Tennis

Josh Perea - Football

Angela Peterson - Equestrian - Hunt Seat

Josee Plante - Softball

Jordan Prill - Baseball

Jesse Roscoe - Men's Golf

Shannan Salm - Equestrian - Western

Hannah Schiller - Women's Volleyball

Broderick Schmidt - Men's Basketball

Alyssa Schneider - Women's Volleyball

Christopher Secrest - Football

Drew Selvestra - Football

Alexandra Skeeter - Women's Volleyball

Joseph Stearly - Football

Andrew Steinfeldt - Football

Annalee Sundin - Equestrian - Hunt Seat

Brooke Vatthauer - Softball

Chelsea Wiesner - Women's Volleyball

Yahna Zastrow - Equestrian - Western

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology. With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree. "Small Campus. Big Degree." To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Chunhui Wang, Ph.D., Appointed Assistant Director of U of M Crookston Satellite Office of the University of Minnesota's Confucius Institute

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:27:25 -0600

Chunhui Wang, Ph.D., at right,has been appointed the assistant director of the University of Minnesota's Confucius Institute satellite office on the campus of the University of Minnesota Crookston. The Confucius Institute at the U of M was created to promote the study of Chinese language and culture throughout Minnesota. It is a collaborative initiative between the University of Minnesota, the Hanban/Confucius Institute Headquarters, and Capital Normal University in Beijing. Chunhui Wang's office is located in 4A Hill Hall.

The organization's namesake is the Chinese philosopher known for encouraging deep independent thought and the study of the outside world.

Fifth Annual Fiesta in the Spirit of Cinco de Mayo Celebrates Northwest Minnesota Artists on Friday, April 12, 2013, at the University of Minnesota, Crookston

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 09:28:37 -0600

Spring means it's time for celebrating the fifth annual Fiesta in the Spirit of Cinco de Mayo at

the University of Minnesota, Crookston. This year's celebration will pay tribute to the artists of Northwest Minnesota and takes place on Friday, April 12, 2013, beginning at 3:30 p.m. All activities are free and open to the public. The food, art, and entertainment will strive to adhere to the artistry, materials, and ingredients indigenous to the Mexican people.

From 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., there will be art demonstrations in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center; a Northwest Arts Exhibit in the Prairie Room and a Silent Auction in the Northern Lights Lounge, Sargeant Student Center; and a drum-making and rhythm activity for young children in the Eagles Nest, Sahlstrom Conference Center. The Drum Circle, led by Diane Lagasse, is designed for music lovers of many ages, but younger children must be accompanied by a parent. The two Drum Circle sessions are limited to 35 per session and take place in Owen Hall 270, one session at 4:30 and one at 5:30 p.m. This activity is also popular with junior and senior high age as well as adults.

Video presentations from Fresh Voices youth leadership students will take place every half hour in the Northern Lights Lounge. Crookston High School students will have an exhibit in the International Lounge.

From 4:30 to 7 p.m., a Mexican supper will be served in Brown Dining Room, followed at 7:30 p.m. by a performance of Danza Mexica Cuauhtemoc, a professional dance and drumming group from St. Paul, Minn., in Kiehle Auditorium. The celebration concludes with a family dance from 9 until 11:30 p.m. in Bede Ballroom with a DJ from Z Martin Entertainment.

The art demonstrations will feature Crookston artists Irene Bertils working in chalk pastels; Trey Everett who uses words to create his art; and Mary Jane Doak, an artist who creates mosaics using a variety of materials. Joining these local artists will be fiber artist Sue Jacobson, from Fertile, Minn., and potter Karla Nelson from Grand Forks, N.D., who is an art teacher in the "Artists in the Classroom" program in the Grand Forks School District, and a teacher at Muddy Waters Clay Center. She will be making pottery and demonstrating the potter's wheel. Also taking place simultaneously will be opportunities for children to use comparable art materials to create their own works of art.

The silent auction will to raise scholarship support for the Ramona Mendez Endowed Scholarship fund. The academic scholarship honors the memory of Ramona Mendez, a long time employee of UMC Facilities. Her son Kenneth is a graduate of the U of M, Crookston and a lead member of the fiesta planning committee. The scholarship was initiated during the 2011 "Fiesta in the Spirit of the Cinco de Mayo."

Danza Mexica Cuauhtemoc (DMC) is a community of individuals and families that are dedicated to the preservation, promotion and practice of the Mexica/ Azteca culture including ceremonies, dance, accurate history, arts and craft, and philosophies. Fiesta organizers believe this troupe, with their dedication to the preservation, promotion, and sharing of the Mexican culture, reflects their own goal of providing quality artistic, cultural education for all who attend the Fiesta. To learn more about DMC, visit http://www.cuauhtemoc.org.

Background

The fiesta is sponsored in part by a grant from the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council, which serves the seven counties located in the northwest corner of the state. The Arts Council receives funding from the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment from the Minnesota State Legislature. Other sponsors include the Crookston Convention and Visitors Bureau; Northwest Mental Health Center; Tri-Valley Opportunity Council; and Concerts and Lectures; Diversity and Multicultural Affairs; Career and Counseling Services; and the Coca Cola Community Initiative Fund at the U of M, Crookston.

The goal of the Cinco de Mayo celebration at the U of M, Crookston is to promote learning, understanding, and appreciation for the Mexican culture through traditional Mexican entertainment, crafts, and cuisine. The planning of the event includes students, faculty, staff from departments across the Crookston campus along with members of the Crookston community, and the Crookston High School VOICES Hispanic Youth Leadership group.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 27 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 39 concentrations on campus--as well as 10 degrees online--in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology. With an enrollment of 1,800 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree. "Small Campus. Big Degree." To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Tiles in the Eagles Nest on campus commemorate Cindo de Mayo.

"Making a Case for Homelessness" focus of Two-part Event, Thursday evenings, March 28 and April 4 at the U of M, Crookston

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 12:55:49 -0600

Featuring Terri "Detroit" Hughes, Skid Row resident, whose story is part of recently released documentary "Lost Angels: Skid Row is My Home"

Skid Row, the homeless capitol of the world, is home for Terri Hughes, an inspirational

speaker and advocate for the homeless from Los Angeles, Calif. Hughes, whose story is featured in the documentary "Lost Angels: Skid Row is My Home," will be speaking on Thursday, April 4, 2013, in Kiehle Auditorium on the University of Minnesota Crookston campus. Her presentation, which begins at 7 p.m., will be a follow up to the showing of the documentary "Lost Angels" at 3:30 p.m. in Bede Ballroom that afternoon. Events are free and the public is invited to attend.

"Lost Angels," which was released on March 19, demonstrates how proactive approaches to homelessness-most specifically that of providing housing-are helping many to recover from mental illness and substance abuse and to find stability (www.skidrowismyhome.com).

"The Soloist" will also be shown in Bede Ballroom on Thursday, March 28 at 6:30 p.m. Hughes was one of many Skid Row residents who were extras in the 2009 movie starring Jamie Foxx, Robert Downey, Jr., and Catherine Keener.

In many ways, the story of Hughes is the story of Skid Row and a testament to the human spirit. She has been a part of the Skid Row community since 1981 and in and out of homelessness her entire life. In "The Soloist" she says "there was no screen manipulation, it wasn't acting; we were given the space to be ourselves."

"The Soloist" tells the story of Los Angeles journalist Steve Lopez, who befriends a homeless Juilliard-trained musician. He writes a series of stories on the homeless man in an effort to help him, but runs into trouble with the realities of the man's personal demons and the larger social injustices faced by the homeless. Those issues are also ones Hughes will address in her presentation Thursday evening.

"There has been chaos on Skid Row even through the late 1990s when there were no services available," Hughes explains. "But places like the Midnight Mission, the L.A. Mission, and the Lamp community have provided support, and lives of Skid Row residents have been turned around. When the mentally ill, drug addicted, and those lacking housing have access to the assistance they need, they heal."

Hughes story like so many others is important because at any time in life we could find ourselves or someone we care about facing homelessness. "I am you. We are your fathers and mothers, cousins, and grandkids," says Hughes. "If we don't unite on the issue of homelessness we won't be able to change anything. I want it to stop."

Chinese Dance Theater to Grace the Kiehle Auditorium Stage on Saturday, February 9, 2013, at 7 p.m.; Workshop Prior to the Performance from 4-6:30 p.m. in Sargeant Student Center

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 09:54:36 -0600

The Chinese American Association of Minnesota (CAAM) Chinese Dance Theater will

celebrate the culture of China with a dance performance at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The dance theater will perform on Saturday, February 9, 2013, in Kiehle Auditorium. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the performance starting at 7 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door at $5 for adults, $3 for children and high school students, and $1 for students at the U of M, Crookston with their ID. Advanced tickets are available by contacting Rae French at 218-281-8339 (rfrench@umn.edu).

Preceding the dance performance, a workshop will be held for all ages from 4 to 6:30 p.m. in Bede Ballroom and the International Lounge both located in the Sargeant Student Center. The workshop will feature demonstrations of Kungfu, a tea ceremony, art display, lantern making, and more. The workshop is free. An option for dinner is also available in Brown Dining Room at 5 p.m. for $7.67. Activities are designed for families with children of all ages.

Background

Chinese dance incorporates a variety of forms and styles of movement derived from 53 diverse ethnic groups' traditions. It involves not just unique Chinese dance sequences and movements but also the cultural and historical basis of the dances. The CAAM Chinese Dance Theater is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Chinese cultural heritage and enriching a diverse community through the universal language of dance.

Since 1992, CDT has served families and delighted audiences with some of the best locally-produced Chinese dance concerts in the country. We are a community-based organization under the artistic direction of a world-renowned choreographer and teacher. A division of the Chinese American Association of Minnesota, the oldest, largest Chinese American community organization in Minnesota, CDT performs before 17,000 live audience members every year. With a dance school, annual concerts, and outreach performances, CDT is the largest Chinese dance organization in the Midwest. To learn more, visit www.caamcdt.org.

This performance is made possible by the University of Minnesota's Confucius Institute and the Office of International Programs at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The workshop is made possible by the Multicultural International Club, International Programs Office, and the Korean Student Clubs on campus.

In the photo: CAAM CDT 2012 Recital.

February 2013 Brings Celebration of Black History and Culture at U of M, Crookston

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 09:02:37 -0600

A series of events in February 2013 will recognize Black History Month at the University of Minnesota, Crookston and the community and region are encouraged to attend these special events on campus.

On Monday, February 4, is Multicultural Monday and features a panel discussion on "The Evolution of Africa" that will also include African food, the opportunity to wear authentic clothing, and a display of artifacts. The panel discussion will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Bede Ballroom in the Sargeant Student Center. Lunch may be purchased in Brown Dining Room for $5.00 per person. All are welcome.

On Friday, February 8, the theatrical performance, "Daughters of Africa" presented by the Mixed Blood Theatre Company. The performance, to be held at 7 p.m. in Kiehle Auditorium, is a commemoration of the triumph of pride, determination, and courage. Fueled by the songs of Lena Horne, Aretha Franklin, Queen Latifah, and many others, this exuberant, music-driven celebration of African American women's triumphs and accomplishments features a striking collection of profiles of the famous and the forgotten. The event is free and open to all. To learn more about Mixed Blood Theatre, visit http://www.mixedblood.com.

Monday, February 25, Ron Spriggs will present the impressive history and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. Spriggs is an oral historian, lecturer and curator of Ron Spriggs Exhibit of Tuskegee Airmen (RSETA). He continues to bear the torch illuminating these "Gladiators of the Skies." He will be at the Crookston High School Auditorium at 9:30 a.m. and the Kiehle Auditorium at the U of M, Crookston at 7 p.m. There will be no admission charge. To learn more about RSETA, visit http://www.rseta.org.

To conclude the month's activities, on Thursday, February 28, there will be a dinner theater featuring a "Celebration of Black History and Culture." The dinner theater will be held in Bede Ballroom at 6 p.m. Anyone interested in attending should contact members of the Black Student Association or Lorna Hollowell, director of Diversity and Multicultural Services at lhollowe@crk.umn.edu or 218-281-8580. The cost of the tickets is $12.00 for adults, $3.00 for students (with ID).

To view all events taking place during Black History Month at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.umcrookston.edu/today.

Background

This year marks two historic anniversaries, the sesquicentennial of the Emancipation Proclamation (1863) and the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington (1963). These two significant events influenced the theme for the month which is "The Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington."

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926. The commemoration originated with historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson. He established what is now known as the Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History in 1915, and a year later founded the widely respected Journal of Negro History. In 1926, he began an initiative for a special week to bring national attention to the contributions of black people throughout American history. It became a month-long recognition in 1976.

U of M, Crookston to Co-sponsor Martin Luther King, Jr., Celebration on Monday, January 21, 2013; Activities begin at 11 a.m. at Central High School in Grand Forks, N.D., for a Unity Walk to the Empire Arts Center with Program Following

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 16:19:11 -0600

The public is invited to the first area-wide Martin Luther King, Jr., Celebration taking place in Grand Forks, N.D., on Monday, Jan. 21, 2013. The activities begin at 11 a.m. with a Unity Walk from Central High School to the Empire Arts Center. A program begins at noon in the Empire Arts Center with Chancellor Fred Wood bringing greetings on behalf of the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Following the program, there will be a community social and refreshments will be served. The day's activities are free and everyone is welcome to attend. Attendees are asked to RSVP at http://tinyurl.com/mcss-mlk.

The Martin Luther King, Jr., Celebration is hosted by the Era Bell Thompson Multicultural Center at the University of North Dakota (UND) in partnership with the U of M, Crookston Office of Diversity Programs, UND's Black Student Association, the U of M, Crookston Black Student Association and others.

This event is an opportunity for everyone to honor legacy of Dr. King. As the spokesperson for the nonviolent civil rights movement, King worked tirelessly. He was assassinated in 1968, and a day commemorating his legacy is held the third Monday of January each year. The observance was first held in January 1986, after being signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983, but it wasn't until 2006 that the holiday became official in all 50 states.

Video of the event: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDMKvVrO8jI

"An Evening of Jazz and Kwanzaa" on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2012, at 7 p.m. in Kiehle Auditorium with Flutist Galen Abdur-Razzaq

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 07:35:34 -0600

Flutist Galen Abdur Razzaq of Flutejuice Productions will perform on Tuesday, December 4, 2012, at 7 p.m. in the Kiehle Auditorium at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The event, "An Evening of Jazz and Kwanzaa" will include several jazz selections as well as a presentation of the Kwanza ceremony.

Galen Abdur-Razzaq, a talented and extraordinary flutist from Montclair, N.J., has performed both domestically and internationally for more than thirty years. A former student of the Berklee College of Music, Boston, Mass., and a graduate of Rutgers University, New Brunswick, N.J., Galen holds a master's degree in fine arts and education. He is an arranger, composer, director, educator, and writer.

Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration honoring African heritage and based on seven core principles known as Nguzo Saba, including unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. It was first celebrated in 1966-67 and was created as the first specifically African-American holiday to reconnect African Americans with their African culture and historical heritage.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 39 concentrations on campus--as well as 10 degrees online--in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology. With an enrollment of 1,800 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree. "Small Campus. Big Degree." To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

U of M, Crookston Receives $100,000 Grant from the U.S. Department of State to Establish an American Cultural Center in China

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 08:17:31 -0600

A $100,000 grant from the U.S. Department of State will fund a collaborative effort between the University of Minnesota, Crookston and Zhejiang Economic and Trade Polytechnic (ZJETP) to establish an American Cultural Center in China. The purpose of the cultural center, to be located on the campus of ZJETP in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, is to cultivate greater understanding between the United States and China. One of the unique aspects of the American Cultural Center at ZJETP is the construction of a 3-D immersive lab similar to the one located on the Crookston campus.

Students in China will be able to use the lab to demonstrate American historical scenes and visit sites in the U.S. including universities, national landmarks, and other places of interest. The lab combines the most recent computer technology, sensor technology, and visual technology to allow users to "immerse" themselves in a virtual environment and interact with that environment. Along with the 3-D immersive lab, the American Cultural Center at ZJETP will include a multimedia conference room and theater, a reading room, and an e-reading room.

To be eligible for the grant, an applicant had to demonstrate expertise in one or more of the following subject areas: people-to-people exchanges, cultural and academic programming, international cooperation, institution-to-institution partnerships, and the ability to develop and implement programs in China. The one-time grant funding, which runs from September 20, 2012, through September 20, 2013, will promote a greater understanding of and appreciation for American culture.

Jingpeng Tang, Ph.D., an associate professor in the Math, Science, and Technology Department on the Crookston campus is the grant's principal investigator. Kim Gillette, Ph.D., director of the Office of International Programs will join Tang to serve as the cultural center's deputy directors. Serving as their counterpart as deputy director in China is Mingdi Gu, who is the director of the international office at ZJETP.

According to Tang, the American Cultural Center is the natural outgrowth of a long-term relationship between the U of M, Crookston and ZJETP. "We have been partners with Zhejiang Economic and Trade Polytechnic since 2005," Tang says. "This American Cultural Center will help foster mutual understanding between both countries, assist with student recruitment, and further our campus mission of outreach. We are excited about the opportunity and proud to be included among the campuses that have this kind of collaboration." The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities is home to the only other center of this kind in the U of M system.

One of the long term goals for the American Cultural Center at ZJETP is to use it as a bridge to universities, businesses, industries, governmental and non-governmental agencies in the United States and Zhejiang province and the Yangtze River Delta of China, including Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. The Center also opens doors for potential research opportunities across both campuses.

Background

Over their history, the U of M, Crookston and ZJETP have collaborated on student exchange, faculty exchange, curriculum construction, and joint programs. More than 50 students from ZJETP have attended the U of M, Crookston in the software engineering, business management, and agricultural business programs. These programs allow ZJETP students to transfer to the U of M, Crookston to complete a bachelor's degree. The Crookston campus also established an English as Second Language (ESL) Center on the ZJETP campus. Study abroad opportunities for both faculty and students at the U of M, Crookston have been enhanced by the relationship with ZJETP and many have taken advantage of the opportunity to visit the campus in China.

Two Seniors at U of M, Crookston Recognized with Prestigious SEED Award from the University of Minnesota

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 07:34:51 -0600

Two seniors at the University of Minnesota, Crookston are the recipients of the prestigious Scholarly Excellence in Equity and Diversity (SEED) award. Wemimo Samson Abbey and Dae Yeul "Danny" Lee were recipients of the Sue W. Hancock Undergraduate SEEDs of Change Award. The two will be recognized on Wednesday, November 14, 2012, at the University of Minnesota Equity and Diversity Breakfast held at the McNamara Alumni Center on the Minneapolis campus.

Wemimo Samson Abbey (left), a senior from Lagos, Nigeria, has a passion for leadership, research, family, and country. He is majoring in business management and organizational psychology and has taken on leadership roles both on campus and outside campus organizations that have led to exciting opportunities for him in the areas of research and the creation of a non-profit. Inspired after attending the 22nd Annual Diversity Recruitment Program at Harvard University, Abbey established the non-profit organization "Change Africa," dedicated to fighting poverty with education and sustainable free enterprise endeavors. With a grade point average (GPA) of 3.7, he credits experiences at the University of Minnesota, Crookston with empowering him to devote his life to fight for the powerless, stand up for women, and never give-up on the hopeless.

His advisor Kenneth Johnson, instructor in the Business Department admires Abbey's dedication. "It is safe to say, I cannot imagine any other student who could accomplish what he has while simultaneously excelling in classes, research, and a plethora of other activities," Johnson says.

Dae Yeul "Danny" Lee (right), a senior accounting major from Seoul, Korea, is dedicated to issues of equity and diversity. A 4.0 GPA student, he has been a critical part of the

Crookston campus recently being named a tax preparation site, and as an IRS certified tax volunteer, he has helped many of the community's elderly complete their tax forms. When Lee first came to campus, he saw the need for increased awareness of diversity and worked with members of the Multicultural International Club to host an international market, game night, language lessons, and a celebration of holidays around the world, among others. Lee believes that empowering people and using what he has learned in his classes will change lives and continues to work to build a better world which respects diversity and strives for equity and social justice.

Advisor to Lee, accounting instructor Ken Bulie, J.D., says Lee stands out. "I have had several very good students over the years, but probably none that have the unique combination of personality, determination, intelligence, and commitment to valuing diversity through service that Danny has," Bulie says.

Background

The Office for Equity and Diversity's SEED awards program honors and acknowledges diverse students who are doing outstanding work at the University of Minnesota, both in and out of the classroom. Undergraduate SEED Award recipients are diverse students who demonstrate impressive achievement and leadership in the area(s) of academic performance and/or community outreach/activism.

In addition, SEED Award recipients must demonstrate a deep understanding of and commitment to issues of equity, diversity, and social justice through their academic work and/or service to the community. Six to ten undergraduates are honored with the SEED Award each year. For more information, visit www.academic.umn.edu/equity/awards/seed_awards.html.

Past recipients of the SEED award from the U of M, Crookston include Lhakpa Gurung in 2010 and Yangchen Gurung in 2011.

International Week brings Fun wi Tita, director of Making a Difference International to U of M, Crookston during a Week of Exciting Activities November 12-16, 2012

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 07:21:51 -0600

A celebration of International Education Week will be held November 12-16, 2012, and

includes a week packed with events and activities. Highlighting the week is a presentation by Fun wi Tita (at right), director of Making a Difference International (MADI) on Wednesday, November 15, at 7 p.m. in Kiehle Auditorium.

MADI specializes in poverty-alleviation activities including the provision of basic personal needs such as clothing and shoes, in tangent with the monetary support of child health, microfinance, agricultural and educational initiatives in Uganda. Tita's presentation will include photographs during an engaging session about the vital work of the MADI organization.

If you are interested in international cuisine, you are invited to dine on Monday, November 12 on food from the four corners of the world. Featured countries include France, Mali, Vietnam, and Korea. The public is welcome to eat lunch at a cost of $7.65 per person being served from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Brown Dining Room. Everyone is encouraged to wear traditional clothing representing your heritage and at 3 p.m. that afternoon there will be pictures and prizes awarded.

Tuesday, November 13, is an opportunity to experience a day without shoes and everyone is encouraged to bring a pair of shoes for donation. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the International Lounge, there will be a variety of surfaces available to walk on as a way of experiencing the terrain of other countries in the world.

From 12 to 1 p.m. in Brown Dining Room D, Sargeant Student Center, Senior Timothy Baker, a natural resources major from Copperas Cove, Texas, will share information about his three study abroad experiences in Thailand, New Zealand, and the Galapagos and the secrets to making these trips work. Bring your own lunch and join this discussion of learning abroad.

From 12 to 2 p.m., English as Second Language (ESL) students will host a poster session in the International Lounge, Sargeant Student Center. The public is invited to ask questions and visit with these students and vote on the best poster. Prizes will be awarded to the "judges" as well as to the students.

Students who spent spring break 2012 in Spain will be sharing their digital storytelling project from 4-5 p.m. during a reception for them in the Northern Lights Lounge, Sargeant Student Center and refreshments will be served.

Wednesday, November 14 from 2-6 p.m. is the International Market (pictured in 2011, at left) in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center. This year's market will feature items from Nepal, local community artists, along with many items from around the world.

From 7-8 p.m., Fun wi Tita will present his own childhood challenges and talk about the work of Making a Difference Internationally, Inc., in the Kiehle Auditorium. Admission to the presentation is a donated item of shoes or clothing or a canned good. Everyone is encouraged to come and hear about this important work in Africa. Refreshments will be served. To learn more about Making a Difference at www.madinc.org.

On Thursday, November 15 is the International Photo and Art Contest held in the Prairie Room, Sargeant Student Center. Winners will be featured in a calendar produced by the Office of International programs.

A program and reception will be held from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center for Abbey and Dae Yuel "Danny" Lee who are 2012 recipients of the Scholarly Excellence in Equity and Diversity (SEED) award. The program begins at 3 p.m. with the reception following.

From 12 to 1 p.m. on Friday, November 16, Wemimo Samson Abbey, a senior from Lagos, Nigeria, majoring in business will share the story of Change Africa, an international cause dedicated to fighting poverty with education and sustainable free enterprise endeavors in developing Africa. The presentation will take place in Bede Ballroom A and B, Sargeant Student Center. To learn more about Change Africa, visit http://changeafrica.org.

From 3 to 5 p.m. everyone is invited to a martial arts how-to session in Prairie Room, Sargeant Student Center. Learn some unique moves from a wide variety of martial arts styles.

Concluding the week from 5 to 7 p.m. is the International Kids Carnival held in the International Lounge with games in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center sponsored by Circle of Nations Indigenous Association (CNIA) and the Multicultural International Club (MIC). Families with children 10 and under are especially invited to attend.

Background

International Education Week, scheduled November 12-16, 2012, is an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. This joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education is part of efforts to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences in the United States. First held in 2000, today it is celebrated in more than 100 countries worldwide. To learn more, visit http://iew.state.gov.

To find out more about what is happening during International Education Week at the U of M, Crookston, visit the Today page at www.umcrookston.edu/today.

Josh Caplan to Present "Hate Speech is Lame" at the U of M, Crookston on Thursday, October 18, 2012, in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center; Presentation at 7 p.m. and all are welcome

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 12:28:14 -0600

Josh Caplan (right) will be on the University of Minnesota, Crookston for a special

presentation entitled "Hate Speech is Lame", in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center, on Thursday, October 18, 2012, at 7 p.m. Caplan is a graduate student at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., working on a master of arts degree in public policy. His presentation discusses how we use words and language that might be hurtful and discriminating. Sometimes hurtful language might be intentional, while other times, we may not even realize it or think about it. The program is free and public is invited to attend.

Lorna Hollowell, director of diversity and multicultural programs on the Crookston campus is excited about hosting Caplan at the Crookston campus. "While serving as the director of cultural diversity at Owensboro Community & Technical College in Kentucky, I brought Josh to campus to speak," Hollowell says. "He is an excellent, engaging presenter, who interacts with students, faculty, and staff in a captivating manner. His presentation resulted in inclusive dialog that continued after his presentation had ended."

While earning his master of arts in political science at Purdue University, Caplan coached the nationally recognized Purdue Speech and Debate team. His current studies focus on how individuals identify themselves and the effects of political context in public policy creation. He is an executive editor of the Georgetown Public Policy Review and was recently the policy fellow for the Democratic Senatorial

Campaign Committee.

Caplan earned his master of arts in political science and his bachelor of arts in political science from Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind., and will graduate with his degree in public policy from Georgetown in 2013.

U of M, Crookston to highlight Mexican Independence Day as part of Hispanic Heritage Month on Sunday, September 16, 2012

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 14:01:56 -0600

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, the University of Minnesota, Crookston is hosting a program that encompasses Hispanic history, storytelling, music, dancing, and refreshments on Sunday, September 16, 2012, the official Mexican Independence Day. The event, known as the "Celebration of Life, History, and Freedom" will take place in the Kiehle Auditorium, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. All activities are free and everyone is welcome. Refreshments will feature popular Mexican foods to sample.

Highlights of the evening will include; vocal music by Bryan Sanchez, dancing by Las Rositas, presentations on Hispanic history, the Mexican Independence Day, and the flag by area elementary and middle school students. Special presentations by Alan Dragseth, president of the board of the Red River Valley Sugarbeet Museum and area sugar beet grower, and by Leticia Sanchez, Intervention Coordinator/Supervisor, for Migrant Health Services in Crookston, will bring to life the history of Hispanics and Latinos in the Red River Valley.

Mary Farley, recipient of the prestigious 2012 Virginia McKnight Binger Awards in Human Service, will be recognized during the evening. She spent her life's work in humanitarian efforts including advocating for immigrants and children, ministering to convicts, reintegrating homeless adults into community life, and finding treatment for individuals with mental illness. For more on the award, visit www.mcknight.org.

Cristina Rodriguez, from Fresh Voices in Progress, will provide an audio visual presentation chronicling the lives and culture of Hispanics in the Red River Valley. The evening will also include information about the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act, known as the DREAM Act by the Office of Diversity & Multicultural Programs, and a featured reading by local high school student Justin Burgoz. The legislation, if passed, would affect individuals ages 15 to 31, who came to the country before they were 16 and have lived here continuously for at least the past five years. They must be free of serious criminal convictions, be enrolled in or have completed high school, or have served in the U.S. military. The presentation will provide information and help raise awareness. For more information on the DREAM Act, visit www.ed.gov.

The evening will conclude with piñatas and Mexican Bingo for kids of all ages.

Hispanic Heritage Month begins September 15, the anniversary of independence for five Latin American countries--Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, and ends Oct. 15. In addition, Mexico declared its independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18.

Lorna Hollowell joins U of M, Crookston as Director of Diversity and Multicultural Programs

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 09:23:23 -0600

Lorna Hollowell (right) has been hired as director of diversity and multicultural programs at the

University of Minnesota, Crookston. She comes to the campus from Owensboro Community and Technical College in Owensboro, Ky, where she served as director of cultural diversity, and she previously worked as an educational talent search advisor for Madisonville Community College, also in Kentucky. She began her responsibilities on campus on Monday, July 23, 2012.

In the role of director of diversity and multicultural programs on the Crookston campus, Hollowell believes institutions of higher education should be flagships of diversity and multiculturalism.

"Forming bridges and collaborative relationships with community organizations, secondary partners, and other post-secondary institutions is vital to creating and maintaining a diverse, inclusive and welcoming community", she says. "I want to do my best to insure that all students, domestic and international, feel welcomed and included in coordinating and participating in community-wide events to explore and showcase various cultures."

She describes her philosophy on diversity "as the exploration, appreciation, and celebration of all the ways we differ", noting that "As we explore our differences, we realize how much we are alike." She is excited to be on campus. "I am impressed with the diversity I see on campus and in the community of Crookston," Hollowell says. "It is very refreshing and provides fertile ground for all that UMC desires to do to promote diversity throughout the campus and community.

Since her arrival on campus, Hollowell has been busy meeting with student groups, staff, and administration. The first event she is coordinating is a celebration of Hispanic and Latino History Month and the Mexican Independence Day, which will be held on Sunday, Sept. 16, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The evening will include history, storytelling, music, dancing, and refreshments.

The event will conclude with an informational presentation on the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act, known as the DREAM Act. The legislation is open to individuals ages 15 to 31, who came to the country before they were 16 and have lived here continuously for at least the past five years. They must be free of serious criminal convictions, be enrolled in or have completed high school, or have served in the U.S. military. The presentation will provide information and help raise awareness. For more information on the DREAM Act, visit www.ed.gov.

Her work is already focusing on the future including events in observance of Native American History Month, Black History Month, European History Month, Religious History, Asian/Pacific Islander History Month, Disability Awareness Month and more. Hollowell encourages everyone to watch for details about upcoming events on the campus Web site at www.umcrookston.edu/today.

Hollowell earned her bachelor of science in organizational management from Oakland City University in Indiana, and has completed coursework for certification in international student services at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Ky. She is currently pursuing an executive master of science in organizational communication through Murray State University, Murray, Ky.