2009 Archived News and Features
college and graduate school of arts and sciences
Capturing 'hot' electrons
Boston College physicists' success in harvesting elusive 'hot electrons' may lead to improvements in solar power efficiency. Sampling of pickups: Science Daily | Physics World | NanotechWire | Nanowerk News | Life Sciences World | PhysOrg.com | e!Science News | Cooler Planet
2009 Fulbrights
Four graduate students: Bede Bidlack, Kevin Conroy, Jeffrey R. Nagengast, and Kevin Vander Schel have won Fulbright Grants. BC Chronicle
Missed signals?
Were there warning signs in the behavior of the alleged Fort Hood gunman, Major Nidal Malik Hasan? Captain Sean Morrow, a student in GSAS who served in Iraq, joins a discussion of the subject on WGBH-TV's 'Greater Boston'. Direct to video
Mutations and myelin
Biologist Dan Kirschner and colleagues use X-rays to discern how mutations affect the structure of myelin, a focal point of research related to multiple sclerosis and other neurological disorders. Science Daily
The lost decade?
The last ten years have brought many challenges - but also a valuable lesson, Boston College Economics Professor Harold Petersen said in an interview with American Public Media's 'Marketplace'.
On the ropes
Boxer Arturo Gatti’s mysterious death has left the end of his story in the hands of the judges, whose decision will feel unsatisfactory, writes English Professor and American Studies Director Carlo Rotella in the New York Times Magazine.
Step forward in Magdalene case
Archival evidence unearthed and presented by English Associate Professor James Smith is instrumental in the Irish government's decision to consider State involvement in the referral of women to the Magdalene laundries. Irish Examiner | Irish Times
A climate for change
Environmentalist and sustainability advocate Elizabeth Barthelmes A&S '11 is a student delegate to the United Nations conference on climate change in Copenhagen.
A surge at Copenhagen?
An Obama 'climate surge' at Copenhagen would be a fitting down payment on the Nobel Peace Prize he just received at Oslo, writes Sociology Professor Charles Derber. Boston Globe | Q&A
Quest to Reclaim Poe
English Professor Paul Lewis, curator of a Boston Public Library exhibition on Edgar Allan Poe, opening Thursday, December 17, discusses his quest to reclaim Poe for his birthplace in Sunday's "First Person" interview in the Boston Globe Magazine. | Globe "Shelf Life"
Keeping the peace
World peace is on the agenda - literally - for Kathryn Duthaler A&S '12, who serves as political officer for the Security Council at the sixth annual Chicago International Model United Nations.
'The Moral Underground'
A new book by sociologist Lisa Dodson, which depicts 'necessary and moral acts of conscience' that aid low-income workers, is recommended reading, according to a review in Time.
'Teaching Is Where My Soul Is'
Political Science Professor Marc Landy, recipient of the 2009 Teaching Award bestowed by BC's chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, considers it 'the most exciting honor I’ve ever received.' BC Chronicle
Chemistry resources enhanced
Support from the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Dept. of Energy has helped to transform the Center for Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, a cornerstone of chemistry research on campus.
'The Mouse Sled'
As the season of gift-giving nears, English Professor and American Studies Director Carlo Rotella recalls one of the most important gifts his parents gave him. Washington Post Magazine
Fashionably Green
London McWilliams A&S '11 won the Project Greenway competition, an environmentally-friendly "Re-Sewn" fashion show featuring student-designed pieces. Video | BC Heights | BC Chronicle
Lying with Fox
BC Psychologist Joseph Tecce was interviewed by Fox WGGB-TV on the various tools one can use to spot a liar.
Yom Kippur in Amsterdam
A new collection of stories, Yom Kippur in Amsterdam, by BC author and scholar Maxim D. Shrayer offers a distinct perspective on the modern immigration experience.
Not derailed by diabetes
Preparation is the foundation for any football player. But for junior Rich Lapham, it takes a little more than most. The Eagles' right tackle is a Type 1 diabetic - and a role model for children facing the disorder. Boston Herald
A semester in Madrid
Michael Polark, a senior majoring in economics and Hispanic studies, spent five months at La Universidad Complutense de Madrid last semester. He reflects on the experience in a Q&A with the Boston Globe.
The Palazzo Pamphilj
Art historian Stephanie Leone's book The Palazzo Pamphilj in Piazza Navona was the subject of a celebratory presentation in Rome earlier this month.
Writers among Us
Paul Mariani, University Professor of English, reads from his book Gerard Manley Hopkins: A Life. The author of six books of poetry, several full-length biographies, and some 200 articles, Mariani is a fellow of the Guggenheim Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. front row
Beijing air power
Political scientist Robert Ross comments on what an aircraft carrier program for China would mean to its military balance with the U.S. NY Times
Why hoaxes take hold
Psychologist Joseph Tecce was interviewed by WBZ-TV's Jon Keller about the motives of those who perpetrate hoaxes, such as last week's balloon escapade, and why people believe them. View video of the report
Airing the laundry
It started as an academic exercise, but for James M. Smith, an associate professor of English, seeking justice for victims of Ireland's Magdalen Laundries has become a quest. Boston Globe
Faculty publication highlights
Faculty are interviewed on their publications: The Gambling Debate by Richard McGowan; An Anthology of Jewish-Russian Literature: Two Centuries of Dual Identity in Prose and Poetry by Maxim D. Shrayer; Cracking Up: American Humor in a Time of Conflict by Paul Lewis. (Real Player is required for viewing)
Humanitarians honored
Rebecca Valette, professor emeritus of romance languages, and her husband will be honored with an award for their humanitarian work on October 14.
'Getting to Know You'
Christina Klein, associate professor of English, joined Tony-award winning playwright David Henry Hwang for a symposium on the successes and controversies of the Richard Rodgers musicals The King and I, Flower Drum Song and South Pacific.
Recession and recovery
Murray and Monti Professor of Economics Peter Ireland discussed the prognosis for recovery from the recession with WBZ-TV News.
A violent divide
Elizabeth O'Killea Haney A&S '11 is studying history at Rhodes University in South Africa. She offers a first-hand look at the country's violent divide for the Boston.com blog 'Passport'.
The Dan Brown phenomenon
Martha Bayles, culture critic and faculty member in the College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program, discusses the popularity of author Dan Brown on WGBH-TV's 'Greater Boston'.
U.S. shoppers to the rescue?
Expecting the U.S. consumer to be the locomotive for global or even domestic economic growth is foolhardy, writes sociologist Juliet Schor in the New York Times blog Room for Debate.
Kenya on the brink
Government corruption and lack of accountability threaten to immerse Kenya in political and social chaos once more, writes BC theologian David Hollenbach, SJ, currently a visiting professor at Hekima College in Nairobi. America
Weston Observatory
On September 30, 2009, our BC-ESP seismographs recorded the magnitude 7.6 earthquake that occurred in the Sumatra region, Indonesia. This earthquake follows yesterday's magnitude 8.0 earthquake in the Samoa Islands region.
Sumatra seismogram | news article| Samoa seismogram | news article
BC's newest endowed professors
A&S faculty members Michael Naughton (physics), Rev. James Bernauer, S.J. (philosophy), and Mary Crane (English) are the University’s newest endowed professors. BC Chronicle
Summer of science
A&S seniors Conor Schlick and Bridget Salna were among the ten students from across the country, who spent two summer months working with BC physicists, under the auspices of NSF's Research Experiences for Undergraduates program.
Seeking redress for Laundries victims
Ireland's Minister for Education rejects proposed Redress legislation for survivors of the nation's Magdalen Laundries written in part by English department and Irish Studies faculty member James M. Smith. Irish Times
Media Note
Football Eagle Will Thompson A&S '11 was featured on an edition of 'Wednesday's Child,' a long-running initiative of WBZ-TV Ch. 4 that helps to place foster children in permanent homes with adoptive parents.
Sarkisian wins award
Associate Professor of Sociology Natasha Sarkisian has won the Oliver Cromwell Cox Article Award from ASA's Racial and Ethnic Minorities section for her paper, "Street Men, Family Men: Race and Men's Extended Family Involvement."
Quigley named A&S dean
David Quigley has been named dean of the University’s College and Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, after having served as interim dean since last fall. BC Chronicle | Dean's message
Prestigious appointment
Mary Crane has been appointed Thomas F. Rattigan Professor of English. Professor Crane has taught English at BC since 1986 and has served as chair of the English department since 2004.
Unprecedented NIH Grant
Biology Professor Thomas Seyfried is a lead researcher with the Tay-Sachs Gene Therapy Consortium, which was just awarded a $3.5 million grant from NIH to prepare for human clinical trials, a gene therapy to halt the fatal genetic disorder, Tay-Sachs. News Release | Physorg.com | The Jewish Daily Forward
Symmetry, great and small
Mathematics Professor Mark Reeder discusses his recent research, published in the Annals of Mathematics. Boston College Libraries
Profile of a governor
American Studies Director Carlo Rotella, a professor of English, has written a feature on Mass. Governor Deval Patrick. Boston Magazine
From ice skates to army boots
Psychology major and ROTC cadet Michelle Boulos '11, a former member of the U.S. Figure Skating Team, "used to use her athleticism to impress judges at competitions. Now she uses it to pass physical fitness tests for drill sergeants."
What the brain sees
Emotion may help the visual system jump the gun to predict what the brain will see, according to a study co-authored by Psychology Professor Lisa Feldman Barrett. Science News
Stopping bullies
Bullies can be stopped, but it takes a village, according to a common sense guide co-authored by English Professor and American Studies Director Carlo Rotella. Slate
Budding quake trackers
Fourth through ninth graders had the chance to build their own seismographs at New Bedford's Sea Lab, through the Weston Observatory Educational Seismology Project directed by Geophysics Associate Professor Alan Kafka. Standard Times
A look back at Woodstock
Marking its 40th anniversary this year, Woodstock was both a dream and a nightmare, writes Martha Bayles of the College of Arts & Sciences Honors Program faculty. Wall Street Journal
Student arts camp aids orphans
Advanced Study Grant recipient Kellen O'Gara '10, a theater and communication major, is in Africa this month leading an arts-based program for orphaned children.
The guiding of light
Researchers led by physics professor Willie Padilla have created a device to guide electromagnetic waves of light around objects - such as the corner of a building or the profile of the eastern seaboard. News release | Science Daily | Science blog | Photonics.com | Nanowerk | Nanotechwire | Nanotechnology Now | Science Centric | PhysOrg | derStandard (Austria)
Gender issue, health issue, no issue?
Sociologist Sharlene Hesse-Biber is among experts discussing the controversy surrounding U.S. Surgeon General nominee Dr. Regina Benjamin's weight.
Is addiction a choice?
Psychologist Gene Heyman's new book, Addiction: A Disorder of Choice, is making headlines. Boston Globe interview | On Point | Financial Times
World class
Casey Guerin A&S '10 discusses her semester at the University of Westminster in London in a Q&A with the Boston Globe.
Student advocates public service
An op-ed by Christina Pierro A&S '10, a summer intern at the U.S. Department of Justice, advocates the formation of a U.S. Public Service Academy to encourage and support service among young Americans. Eagle-Tribune
Faculty publication highlights
Faculty are interviewed on their publications: The Case for Greatness Honorable Ambition and its Critics by Robert Faulkner; Colonial Crossings: Figures in Irish Literary History by Marjorie Howes; Gerard Manley Hopkins: A Life by Paul Mariani. (Real Player is required for viewing)
Fulbright winners making news
A number of this year's 21 student Fulbright winners - 17 of them now new graduates - have been highlighted by their hometown newspapers, including Jessica Cusano, Matt Porter, Dodie Rimmelin, Jonathan Sege, John McQuade, Dorothy Smith, Daniel Neer and Michael McGovern. Read about all the 2009 student winners.
'Mister Rogers' 2.0
The iconic PBS program 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood' lives on at a new website launched by Boston-based animation studio Fablevision, led by Communication adjunct faculty member Paul Reynolds '89. Boston Globe
Sympathetic listening
Associate Professor of Philosophy Marina McCoy discussed what she calls "sympathetic listening" - and its importance to the transformative possibilities of dialogue - in an interview with Digital Dialogue. Direct to podcast
Body language and emotion
Psychology Associate Professor Joseph Tecce is among analysts offering insights into the complex process of interpreting President Obama's body language. ABC News
Interest in the Middle East on the rise
Founded in 2002, BC's Islamic Civilization and Societies Program - a study of politics, religions, economics, arts, cultures and languages of Muslim-majority countries - is currently the fastest growing program at the University. Yeman Observer | ICS Program
Faculty P
ublication Highlights
Faculty comment on their publications: English Prof.; James Smith, Ireland's Magdalen Laundries and the Nation's Architecture of Containment, and Psychology Prof. Elizabeth Kensinger, Emotional Memory Across the Adult Lifespan. (Real Player is required for viewing)
Lilly graduate fellows
Recent A&S graduates Emily Neumeier '08 and Paul Camacho '07 are among 16 named this year to the Lilly Graduate Fellows program.
Remembering Frank McCourt
Historian Robert Savage, co-director of Irish Studies, spoke to NECN about Pulitzer Prize-winning author Frank McCourt, who died earlier this week. NECN
Dissecting Katrina response
A long-term study by Political Science Professor Marc Landy and the Rockefeller Institute of Government on the federal response to Hurricane Katrina says a major failure was lack of central organization.
Perceptions of emotion
A paper co-authored by Psychology Prof. Lisa Feldman Barrett on the varying ways in which people perceive emotion in men vs. emotion in women (to be published in the journal Emotion) is highlighted by Newsweek.
Supporting evidence
Biology Professor Thomas Seyfried and a team of scientists take a fresh look at an 80-year-old theory of cancer. video from @BC
BC hosts "Transition to College" for visually-impaired
Seven visually-impaired students who plan to pursue higher education in their futures will take part in a two-week "Transition to College" program held on campus from July 20-31, through the efforts of Communication Prof. Kevin Kersten, SJ, and alumni Joseph Quintanilla and Rabih Dow of the Carroll Center for the Blind.
The Genre Artist
English Prof. and American Studies Director Carlo Rotella profiles Jack Vance, described by his peers as "a major genius" and "the greatest living writer of science fiction and fantasy," for the New York Times Magazine.
Freedom to Learn
Psychologist Peter Gray writes on the roles of play and curiosity as foundations for learning, and on the downfall and potential revival of "trustful parenting." Psychology Today
Teen girls in fiction
From Little Women to Twilight to her own Beacon Street Girls - English Assoc. Prof. and novelist Amy Boesky has a wide-angle perspective on the portrayal of adolescent girls in fiction. Boston Globe
Redress for Magdalene women
The survivors of the Magdalen laundries are being denied a distinct redress scheme despite the state's culpability, writes English Assoc. Prof. James Smith, in Ireland's Sunday Tribune.
A 'slice' of life
Fine Arts' Karl Baden discusses the Pizza Box Graphics page of his on-line photography site with the Boston Globe's 'G Force'.
Adv
anced computer vision
Inspired by behavior of the human eye, BC computer scientists Hao Jiang and Stella X. Yu have developed a technique that lets computers see objects as fleeting as a butterfly faster and more accurately. Science Daily | ScienceCentric | TGDaily, PhysOrg | Malaysia Sun | Albuquerque Express | NewsTrackIndia | Top News | ScienceBlog.com
Physics of stretching salt
Physics Prof. Krzysztof Kempa comments on new findings from Sandia National Laboratories that show salt stretches like taffy in the nanoworld. Science News Magazine
Sanford's sins
Hypocrisy pales in comparison to Mark Sanford's other sins, writes Boisi Center for Religion and American Public Life Director Alan Wolfe for the New Republic blog 'The Plank'.
A semester in Greece
Allison Tripp A&S '10 discusses her semester studying art, architecture and history at the American College of Thessaloniki in Greece. Boston Globe | Read her blog 'It's All Greek to Me'.
When the revolution isn't broadcast
The protests in Iran have been dubbed the 'Twitter Revolution' because the latest social-networking tools proved useful. But what if this sudden deployment of media tech doesn't move the regime?, asks Martha Bayles of BC's Arts and Sciences Honors Program. Boston Globe
What is Kevin Kenny reading?
Learn about the current book of choice for History Prof. Kevin Kenny, who is highlighted by The Campaign for the American Reader.
Michael Jackson's legacy
What did the King of Pop bequeath to the world? Your answer will probably depend on your view of American pop music, writes culture critic Martha Bayles of BC's Arts and Sciences Honors Program.
Confession in America
Clough Millennium Prof. of History James O'Toole offers insights on the past, present and future of the sacrament of confession in the U.S. Boston Globe.
Faculty books
A sampling of recently published books by A&S faculty: emotional memory across the adult lifespan by Elizabeth Kensinger, Ottoman Tulips, Ottoman Coffee by Dana Saji, and The Future of Liberalism by Alan Wolfe.
Senior eyes 'Idol'
Math and music major Alycia Kennedy A&S '10 was among those vying for the chance to audition for the Fox TV hit 'American Idol.' Boston Herald
Penn's 'holy experiment'
The 'peaceable kingdom' was too good to last—after William Penn, Native Americans were treated savagely in Pennsylvania, writes History Prof. Kevin Kenny—author of a new book on the subject—in the Philadelphia Inquirer.
"Best Article Award"
Sociologist Shawn McGuffey's article, "Saving Masculinity: Gender Reaffirmation, Sexuality, Race and Parental Responses to Male Child Sexual Abuse," has won the "Best Article Award" from the American Sociological Association Sexualities Section.
2009 Phi Beta Kappa Scholars
This year 116 students were admitted to the Phi Beta Kappa honorary society. BC Chronicle
Teacher of the Year
Professor of Political Science Marc Landy has been selected for the 2009 Phi Beta Kappa Teaching Award.
2009 Fulbrights and Beckman Scholars
This year BC claims 21 Fulbrights, 17 of them graduating seniors. In addition, two students have won Beckman Scholarships.
U.S. must act on math and science
The nation's leadership in mathematics and science is once again at risk, and a Congressional act is needed to restore it, writes Mathematics Prof. Solomon Friedberg in the Boston Globe.
'Six to Remember'
A series of short profiles on some of the most outstanding members of the Class of 2009 - four from A&S. From scholars to activists to volunteers, this class had a special mix of talent, leadership and drive. Alexandra Saieh has taken issues of Middle East geo-politics and brought them closer to BC. | Celso Perez brought civility and respectful discussion to a traditionally controversial issue. | Robert Kubala has embraced cura personalis, traveling the world for research and playing in several music groups. | Pilar Landon became the leader of the student newspaper and a respected student leader.
New books
A sampling of recently published books by A&S faculty: Meaning and Authenticity by Brian Braman; The Im-Possibility of Interreligious Dialogue by Catherine Cornille; and Murder and the Death Penalty in Massachusetts by Alan Rogers.
Prof. honored by Italian government
Prof. of Italian Rena Lamparska was honored by the president of the Republic of Italy with conferral of the title of Dama in the Ordine della Stella della Solidarieta Italiana.
'Green Energy' research
Physics Prof. Zhifeng Ren and Asst. Prof. Cyril Opeil, SJ, have been awarded $2.1 million in 'green energy' funding. News release | Nanotechwire | Nanowerk News
Remaking English poetry
'Gerard Manley Hopkins,' a biography by University Professor of English Paul Mariani, draws praise as 'Book of the Week' in the May 11 issue of The New Yorker.
The NE economy
Economics Assoc. Prof. Robert Murphy discussed the current and future economic climate of the New England region as a guest on NECN's 'The Week in Business.
Covering Photography
Karl Baden's Covering Photography was the subject of a piece by Nicholas Basbanes, one of the leading authorities on the subject of books, their history and collections. Fine Books Magazine | National Public Radio's blog
Nano-treatment for eyes
Physics Prof. Michael Naughton and colleagues seek to solve the problems of age-related macular degeneration and other eye diseases by creating nano-structured retinal implants. Mass High Tech
Christ in the garden
Inspired by Lavinia Fontana's 'Noli Me Tangere,' Romance Languages Assoc. Prof. Franco Mormando reflects on Jesus as gardener. America
The world of Nabokov
'The World of Nabokov's Stories' and 'temy i variatsii' by Prof. of Russian and English Maxim D. Shrayer are valuable additions to Nabokov scholarship, according to a review in the Nabokov Online Journal.
Top paper award
Melissa Mazzeo '09 won the Top Paper Award for Communication and Media at the Conference for Undergraduate Research in Communication at Rochester Institute of Technology.
Science Across the City Day
Biology junior Colin Kunzweiler works with Russell Elementary School students for a hands-on lesson about turtles and the work of university scientists.
State sales tax hike?
Economics Assoc. Prof. Harold Petersen was interviewed about what a sales tax increase would mean for consumers and the state by WBUR News.
Spotlight on student poetry
Verse by undergraduate bards from 25 colleges and universities was showcased this month at the Greater Boston Intercollegiate Poetry Festival, hosted by BC.
Obama's first 100 days
BC History Prof. Patrick Maney discussed the first 100 days of the Obama presidency with NECN.
Poe Square
English Prof. Paul Lewis, leader of a campaign to 'reclaim' author Edgar Allan Poe for his native Boston, joined Mayor Menino in dedication of Poe Square today. Boston Globe | Book Connection.com
Play's the thing
Research of early human adaptation by Psychology Prof. Peter Gray shows 'free play' - distinct from organized, competitive play - is highly important to human social development. News release | FirstScience News | PsychCentral | LiveScience | PhysOrg.com | Science Daily | ScienceCentric
The Paschal Cure
Theologian Rev. Robert Imbelli writes on incarnation and the Eucharist for Commonweal magazine.
New books
A sampling of recently published books by A&S faculty: Radio Cultures: The Sound Medium in American Life by Michael Keith; Violence in the West: The Johnson County Range War and Ludlow Massacre by Marilynn Johnson; and Peaceable Kingdom Lost: The Paxton Boys and the Destruction of William Penn's Holy Experiment by Kevin Kenny.
The Global Lincoln
History Prof. Kevin Kenny will be one of the leading scholars to present a paper at a major international conference funded by Congress in Oxford this summer.
'Re-greening' to create jobs
Using stimulus funds to 're-green' communities would create jobs and a healthier environment for future generations, according to a piece co-authored by Environmental Studies Director Eric Strauss, science advisor for the Urban Ecology Institute. CNN
Small world
Physicist Michael Naughton describes Boston College scientists' breakthroughs in nanotechnology research. Audio from @BC
Chemist named Guggenheim Fellow
Chemistry Prof. Udayan Mohanty has won a 2009 Guggenheim Fellowship for his theoretical studies of rare chemical reactions.
Referenced by chance
Karl Baden's exhibition "Covering Photography: Imitation, Influence and Coincidence" was praised in the art journal 'afterimage'.
The new science of the invisible
Physics Asst. Prof. Willie Padilla's contributions to the 'metamaterials revolution'—also known as the science of making anything disappear—are highlighted in the April issue of Discover magazine.
Inquiring minds
Award-winning undergraduate researchers reflect on what their projects taught them about their fields and about themselves. Audio slideshow from @BC
The future, and roots, of liberalism
'The Future of Liberalism' - Political Science Prof. Alan Wolfe's new book - 'reminds us of liberalism's deep conceptual, intellectual and, yes, moral roots,' writes former U.S. Senator Gary Hart in the New York Times.
Running because she still can
Less than two years after learning she had Hodgkin's lymphoma, psychology major Kate McAuliff '10 plans to run in the Boston Marathon to raise money for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Economist advances kidney swaps
Computer models can now link strangers in a life-saving chain of kidney transplants, researchers including economist M. Utku Ünver report in the N.E. Journal of Medicine. CNN.com | Health.com | Science Daily | Boston Globe | Medical News Today | U.S. News & World Report's 'Health Day'
Awarded for distinguished teaching
Math Professor Solomon Friedberg has won the 2009 Northeastern Section Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching. Friedberg was cited for his enthusiasm and skill in the classroom, his commitment to his students and accessibility outside the classroom, and his efforts to improve the teaching of the next generation of faculty.
Theologians on Caritas Christi venture
Rev. James Bretzke, SJ, Lisa Sowle Cahill, and Rev. Kenneth Himes are among leading theologians asked to comment on a proposed joint venture between Caritas Christi hospital and a secular insurance company. Boston Globe's 'Articles of Faith'
The future of liberalism
Political Science Professor Alan Wolfe, author of 'The Future of Liberalism,' discusses his book and the meaning of liberalism in the Obama era as a guest on NPR's 'On Point'.| Boston Globe | Washington Post
Economist's passion: boat speed
Economist Chris Maxwell looks at a variety of sports questions through the lens of modern mathematical modeling. But above all, his is a mad pursuit of one thing: boat speed. Rowing News
'Clean power' promise
Overcoming a critical conductivity challenge to clean energy technologies, researchers led by BC chemist Dunwei Wang have developed a titanium nanostructure that demonstrates significantly greater efficiency in the transport of electrons. News Release | Science Daily | Scientist Live | Nanowerk | UPI
A slowdown that may slow us down
"Smaller paychecks would dampen down the competitive consumption that's associated with the high-hours economy, leading to a sustainable way of life," says sociologist Juliet Schor in the NYTimes.
Dancing around the ephemeral
Sheila Gallagher's recent exhibition, held in Boston's Judi Rotenberg Gallery, received a favorable review in the Boston Globe.
Eat less meat
To reduce greenhouse gases, reduce the meat consumption says sociologist Juliet Schor. | NYTimes.com
New 'metamaterial' device
A unique 'metamaterial' device can precisely control the complex terahertz electromagnetic frequency, BC physicist Willie J. Padilla and a team of researchers report. News Release | Science Daily | Nanotechnology Now | NanoWerk | Science Mode | ScienceCentric (Bulgaria) | Innovations Report (Germany)
The power of polar opposites
Historian Thomas O'Connor examines the way George Washington dealt with conflicting ideals and contrasting personalities in two great figures of his own administration: Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton. Patriot Ledger
Barbie at 50
Love her or hate her, everybody knows Barbie. As Mattel's fashion icon turns 50, Sociology Prof. Sharlene Hesse-Biber discusses the doll's legacy on NPR's 'On Point'.
Finding the spark
Camille Petri is co-author of major research that could hold a key to combating malaria. 'What drew me to the project was the fact that it was applying science to help other people, especially those without the resources to help themselves,' she says. BC Chronicle | PhysOrg | Medical News Today
Historical myth and FDR
The legend of Franklin Roosevelt's famous first 100 days has become so overblown that it may be crippling the ability of leaders to be effective, let alone achieve instantaneous greatness, writes History Prof. Patrick Maney in the Boston Globe.
A-Rod orchestrated?
That was verdict from BC psychologist Joseph Tecce, who was among experts analyzing the press conference in which NY Yankee Alex Rodriguez responded to allegations of steroids use. New York Daily News
What will heaven be like?
Philosopher Peter Kreeft answers thirty-five frequently asked questions about eternity in Christianity Today.
Theologian receives Marianist Award
University Professor of Human Rights and International Justice David Hollenbach, SJ, has received the University of Dayton's Marianist Award for contributions as 'one of the most important...scholars writing today about ethics in the Catholic tradition.'
Alumna has reins at BJ's
Lauren Sen A&S '78 - new CEO of BJ's Wholesale Club, the nation's third largest club chain - is highlighted in a Q&A with the Boston Globe.
High tech laser maps
New high-tech laser maps beamed from planes overhead clarify how well these bodies of water can help maintain or expand fish stocks, according to a new study by geologist Noah Snyder. News release | Sampling of coverage: Science Daily | PhysOrg.com | Science Mode | ScienceCentric (Bulgaria) | SINDH Today (Pakistan) | Top News (India) | Photonics.com
The spiritual in art
The recent Rouault retrospective at the McMullen Museum was 'beautifully focused, with a concentrated force,' according to a review in The New Republic. | History Assoc. Prof. Stephen Schloesser, SJ, has received the Apple Valley Foundation's 2008 Curatorial Excellence Award for the exhibition.
Understanding body image
Ann Marie Barry will give a university lecture on "Understanding Body Image: Sense of Self, Media Imagery, and Visual Culture" at the University of Minnesota Symposium on Body &Knowing, a two-year endeavor in which the human body is examined both as an object of study and as a producer of knowledge.
Major, Lifetime Achievement Award
English Prof. Paul Mariani has won the John Ciardi Award for Lifetime Achievement in Poetry.
Every Day since 1987
Fine Arts Professor Karl Baden has been making a photograph of his face every day since February 23, 1987.
Purnell to lead Center for Student Formation
Political Scientist Jennie Purnell will oversee efforts to coordinate programs and activities that foster students' intellectual, spiritual, social and moral development. BC Chronicle
Theologian on inaugural address
Writing in the Vatican newspaper L'Osservatore Romano, theologian Rev. Robert Imbelli assesses President Obama's inaugural address, noting its biblical language, evocation of traditional principles, and reference to the grace of God. Catholic News Agency
Sonnets of Shakespeare
Rattigan Prof. of English John Mahoney's new 25-track CD of Shakespeare's sonnets—his fourth recording under the auspices of Burns Library—is highlighted by the Boston Globe. (second item)
About the 17th
BC historian Tom O'Connor writes on the story—and the facts—of March 17.
The best job in the U.S.
Mathematicians land top spot in new ranking of best and worst occupations in the U.S. Wall Street Journal
Order of the Palm
Ourida Mostefai, associate professor of French in the Romance Languages & Literatures Department, will be honored by the French National Ministry of Education with the award of Chevalier dans l' Ordre des Palmes Académiques.
Plaudits for research and recordings
Music dept. chair Michael Noone—noted for his publications, teaching, performing and recording of music from the Spanish Golden Age—says Renaissance era church music composer Tomas Luis de Victoria represents 'one of the great untold stories of how the Jesuits supported music.'
Superconductivity mystery solved
An international research team led by Physicist Vidya Madhavan has unraveled one of the mysteries surrounding high-temperature superconductivity. Science Daily | Science Mode | PhysOrg | Nanowerk | AzoNano (Australia) | ScienceCentric (Bulgaria)
True beauty
Professor John Michalczyk is curator of the exhibit, "Beauty: Skin Deep?" -- a provocative view of burn survivors and the disfigured, asking the real question about superficial vs. true Beauty.
Wild ride still ahead on energy costs
Political Scientist David Deese, author of World Trade Politics: Power, Principles and Leadership, discusses the future of energy and trade policies in a Q&A in the latest BC Chronicle.
Lie detector
Psychologist Joseph Tecce was interviewed by Fox 25 News about body language that may indicate deception, in conjunction with the debut of the new Fox drama 'Lie to Me.'
Senior's advocacy honors dad's memory
Caroline Ogonowski '09, whose father was piloting American Airlines Flight 11 when it crashed into the World Trade Center on 9/11, honors his memory as an advocate for blood donations. NECN
On Obama and FDR
As President-elect Barack Obama prepares to take office, it's natural to look back to the last leader who assumed the presidency during a time of grave economic crisis, writes historian Patrick Maney in the Boston Herald.
Suffering from SAD?
Psychologist Joseph Tecce writes about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a winter disorder caused by the loss of normal light in the environment, affecting approximately 15 million people.
Till Debt Us Do Part
Marriage is a bargain says Economics Professor Arthur Lewbel in The Economist.
World Trade and Justice for the Poor: Impact of the Global Talks Breakdown
BC faculty panelists James Anderson, David Deese, and Frank Garcia consider how the recent impasse in world trade negotiations will affect the third world. audio/video
Taking stock
As non-profits face the continuing challenges of the downturn, the Center on Wealth and Philanthropy's Paul Schervish and John Havens assess what can be expected of charitable giving in today's economy.
Russian Gulag documentary
"Confronting Amnesia: Frozen Memories of the Russian Gulag," a new film by Fine Arts Prof. John Michalczyk and O'Neill Library's Ronald Marsh, will be screened Jan. 18 at the Museum of Fine Arts. Boston Herald blog | News Release
Erosion of 401(k)s
Center for Retirement Research Director Alicia Munnell is quoted, and Center data is cited, in a front-page Wall Street Journal piece on the slide in 401(k)s.
Evermore
English Prof. Paul Lewis writes on the enduring influence and genius of Edgar Allan Poe in the Boston Globe, in anticipation of BC's upcoming Poe bicentennial celebration, also highlighted by the Globe.
The boomerang kids
Struggling to make ends meet, adults are moving back in with their folks. BC psychologist Joseph Tecce shared some guidelines for making it work with the Boston Globe. The piece also has been picked up abroad: People's Daily (China) and Philippines News Agency.
Finding her place
Elizabeth Mumford '09, founder of REACT - a group focused on eliminating human trafficking in Boston - talks about how BC has helped to shape her future. BC Chronicle
Support for Warburg cancer theory
After German scientist Otto H. Warburg received the 1931 Nobel Prize for his cancer theory, its biochemical basis remained elusive. Now, BC biologists and colleagues report new evidence to support it. News release | Scientist Live (UK) | Bio-Medicine | Science Daily
The return of cultural diplomacy
America should aim to export more serious forms of entertainment as well as 'Dark Knight' and 'Baywatch,' writes A&S Honors Program faculty member Martha Bayles in a recent essay for Newsweek.
Economic insights
Economic models assume that people behave rationally and do the right thing, according to Economics Prof. Peter Gottschalk. 'But this time people did very much the wrong thing.' New York Times
It's time to drop the consumer label
Sociologist Juliet Schor told the Washington Post, "Contemporary American tweens and teens have emerged as the most brand-oriented, consumer-involved, and materialistic generation in history."
On Boston Common
American Studies Director Carlo Rotella reflects on the push to make over Boston's most symbolic park in the January issue of Boston Magazine.
Obama the Communitarian
Throughout his campaign, Barack Obama's language mixed themes of hope and purpose with communitarian emphasis on duty and responsibility. In his inaugural address, the former could barely be heard, writes Boisi Center Director Alan Wolfe.
The Christmas story
Theologian Pheme Perkins comments on the role of St. Joseph in the Christmas story in Slate magazine, while Jesuit theologians Thomas Stegman and Harvey Egan discuss the innkeeper who turned Mary and Joseph away with Religion News Service.