College of Arts and Sciences

2008 Archived News and Features

college and graduate school of arts and sciences

2007    2006    2005    2004    2003    2002

 

Barrett named AAAS Fellow Psychology

Lisa Feldman BarrettProfessor Lisa Feldman Barrett has been elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science "for distinguished contribution to the field of psychology, particularly for theoretical and empirical work on the nature of emotion." More


An advocate for all Reflections on the Synod

Robert Imbelli, S.J.Theologian Rev. Robert Imbelli's reflection on the Synod of Bishops dedicated to appreciation and affirmation of the Word of God--originally published in the Vatican newspaper L' Osservatore Romano--is available here. (scroll down to essay)


Catholics on the new Administration

Lisa CahillMonan Prof. of Theology Lisa Sowle Cahill was among 'Catholic notables' asked by National Catholic Reporter to comment on the Obama presidency.

 

 


The economic challenge

Robert MurphyBC economist Robert Murphy offers perspective on the challenges facing the new administration to NECN and the Boston Globe.

 

 


David Hollenbach, S.J.As the 60th anniversary of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights approaches in December, theologian and Center for Human Rights and International Justice Director David Hollenbach, SJ, reflects on how the Catholic Church promotes human dignity in America.


A semester in Cairo

David Faugno FusciBiology major David Faugno-Fusci '10 offers insights from his semester at the American University in Cairo to the Boston Globe.

 

 


New class of catalyst

Amir HoveydaVanderslice Millennium Prof. in Chemistry Amir Hoveyda's latest research, published in the journal Nature, has developed a new class of catalyst that promises to expand research in the fields of medicine, biology and materials science. News Release | Science Daily | Chemistry World (UK) | DailyIndia.com | Nanowerk | PhysOrg.com


The comfort of the Resurrection

Paul MarianiEnglish Prof. Paul Mariani's biography of Gerard Manley Hopkins provides extraordinary insight into the craft and faith of a great poet, according to a review in Christianity Today.

 


BC claims two Marshall Scholars

Robert KubalaKuong LySenior Robert J. Kubala and Kuong Ly '08 are among 40 students awarded this year's coveted George Marshall Scholarships, which support graduate study in the U.K, and recognize students of the highest intellect and character. News Release | BC Chronicle | Boston Herald | Boston Globe | Reuters | Dow Jones MarketWatch | Los Angeles Times | State House News | Houston Chronicle | Boston Business Journal | International Business Times | View an NECN feature on Kuong Ly


Five to retire by

Alicia MunnellWorking Longer, by Center for Retirement Research Director Alicia Munnell and Associate Director Steven Sass, is cited among 'Five Books to Retire By' by the Wall Street Journal.

 


Holiday shopping--just don't

Juliet SchorConsumer binges such as those on Black Friday and Cyber Monday are unsustainable, financially and environmentally, writes sociologist Juliet Schor in a recent op-ed in the Los Angeles Times.

 


The new administration

Marc LandyPolitical scientist Marc Landy discusses the Obama Administration and challenges facing the president-elect.  Boston Herald | WCVB-TV 'Chronicle' | CNN

 


A lasting hurrah

Thomas O'ConnorHistorian Thomas O'Connor remembers Boston Mayor James Michael Curley, 'the most colorful and charismatic Irish politician in Boston's political history,' who died 50 years ago on Nov. 12.  Boston Herald

 


Profs on the U.S. economy

Harold PetersenPatrick ManeyA recent interview on WBZ radio with BC economist Harold Petersen and historian Patrick Maney on the state of the economy is now available on-line. Listen here 

 


An upside to the economic downside

Juliet Schor"It seems that even the wealthy are reassessing their priorities--along with their purchases," commented sociologist Juliet Schor in the Boston Globe

 

 


'The Gift to Stalin'

Maxim D. ShrayerProf. of Russian and English Maxim D. Shrayer recently penned an essay on the North American premiere of 'The Gift to Stalin' for the 2008 Boston Jewish Film Festival. More 

 


Untold stories

Thomas O'Connor's book Tales University historian and professor emeritus Thomas O'Connor didn't include in his new book, a concise history of Boston College.  Audio from @BC

 

 


Newly published book

Elizabeth KensingerPsychology Professor Elizabeth Kensinger's new book, "Emotional Memory Across the Adult Lifespan," about how we remember emotional experiences better than unemotional ones, was published December 10th by Psychology Press. More


Digital man

James Niles JoyalFor BC senior James Niles-Joyal, memorizing pi is a piece of cake, writes classmate Reeves Wiedeman '08, a correspondent for the Boston Globe.

 

 


Thinking mathematically

Solomon FriedbergDuring a recent workshop at the University of Chile, BC mathematician Solomon Friedberg was interviewed about educating future elementary school teachers in 'math knowledge and thinking.' More

 


Ireland's Magdalen Laundries

James SmithEnglish Associate Professor James M. Smith needed the distance of living abroad to write his new book about the Irish women who suffered incarceration in the Magdalen laundries. Irish Times

 


Nanotech fuels thermoelectric breakthrough

Zhifeng RenA team of BC and MIT researchers led by BC physicist Zhifeng Ren report in the journal Science they have found a way to achieve a boost in thermoelectric performance - a milestone that paves the way for a new generation of products that run cleaner. More | Boston Globe | New Scientist | Reuters | EETimes | CNET News | PhysOrg.com | Nanowerk | Popular Science


BC among top 'wired' campuses

Boston College has been ranked No. 6 among the nation's "Top 20 Wired Colleges" in a survey published this month by PC Magazine, a popular resource for tech news, reviews and analysis. News release


BC moves up in US News rankings

The annual US News & World Report survey of American colleges and universities has ranked Boston College 34th among the nation's 228 national universities in its August 22 issue. Story


Science shines at BC

Citing achievements in research, enhanced facilities and increased external recognition, The Heights applauds BC's advancements in the hard sciences. Editorial


Distinguished first book

James SmithThe American Conference for Irish Studies (ACIS) awarded James M. Smith, Associate Professor of English, the "2007 Donald Murphy Prize for a Distinguished First Book" for Ireland's Magdalen Laundries and the Nation's Architecture of Containment.



DNA data project

Gabor MarthBC biologist Gabor Marth is developing data analysis software that could lead to better understanding of how DNA affects disease. Boston Business Journal | Release

 


In search of one world

Michael KeithCommunication's Michael Keith adds another chapter to the life story of legendary CBS radio writer, director and broadcaster Norman Corwin. BC Chronicle 

 


Real money, real success

Harold PetersenThe machinations of Wall Street are on many minds these days - including nearly 100 undergraduates in the high-performance Boston College Investment Club. Its president, Scott Atha '08, and faculty advisor, Economics Assoc. Professor Harold Petersen, discuss the group's longevity and success in the latest BC Chronicle.


Ireland international

Richard KearneyIreland has gone global and will never be the same - for better or worse, writes Seelig Professor in Philosophy Richard Kearney, in a St. Patrick's Day op-ed in the Irish Times.

 


Honors for Ecopledge

Seniors Katherine Walsh, Peggy Fox, Jessica Young, Katie Cava and Merril Putnam of the campus sustainability group Ecopledge have collectively been named 'Person of the Year' by The Heights. Ecopledge also won BC's 'Ever to Excel' award, while co-president Walsh was honored for leadership. More


'Some enchanted quagmire'?

Tina KleinIs the musical 'South Pacific' - now a hit revival on Broadway - also a geopolitical allegory? That intriguing question is posed in a book by English Assoc. Professor Tina Klein, according to the New York Times' editorial blog The Board.



Risky business for Hollywood

Martha BaylesAmerican films are being exported to billions of people around the globe who both welcome and resent them, writes A&S Honors Program faculty member Martha Bayles in the Boston Globe.

 


Advanced study leads to op-ed

Cullen NuttAn Advance Study Grant project has led political science major Cullen Nutt '09 to write a perspective piece on a new counterinsurgency field manual. His essay was published this month by New Jersey's Star-Ledger.

 


Fultonian of the Year

Barbara ViechnickiBarbara Viechnicki, Associate Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, will be honored as Fultonian of the Year at the 116th annual Fulton Prize Debate on April 15.  

 


Eye on giving

Paul SchervishSociologist Paul Schervish, director of BC's Center on Wealth and Philanthropy and one of the nation's leading experts on the charitable inclinations of the very wealthy, is featured by the New York Times Magazine.

 


'Hoppy ending'

Adam WalshWith just six months of home brewing under his belt, senior Adam Walsh's IPA has won a nod from Sam Adams, taking the top prize in the company's Patriot Homebrew Contest. Boston Herald

 


Calligraphy in the world of Islam

Emily NeumeierThe Arabic script displayed in the new exhibition 'Kufic Korans' at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts is impressive, especially considering it was curated by BC senior and Presidential Scholar M. Emily Neumeier. BC Chronicle

 


New light from Biblical scholarship

Pheme PerkinsTheology Professor Pheme Perkins' 'Introduction to the Synoptic Gospels' is among books by distinguished senior scholars highlighted in the latest America magazine.

 


The Faithful

James O'TooleClough Professor of History James O'Toole, author of the book The Faithful: A History of Catholics in America, is interviewed on WBUR-FM's 'Here and Now'.

 

 


Late-night comics sock it to democracy

Paul LewisProfessor of English Paul Lewis was quoted in a Chicago Tribune story about the impact of late-night comedy on American politics.

 

 


Giving in Ireland

Paul SchervishCenter on Wealth and Philanthropy Director Paul Schervish was invited to speak at a new symposium exploring philanthropy in Ireland, organized by U.S. Ambassador Thomas C. Foley. More

 


Quaking in Boston

John EbelWeston Observatory director John Ebel discusses the probability - and ramifications - of an earthquake in the city with the Boston Phoenix.

 

 


Distinguished scholar award

Michael KeithCommunication's Michael C. Keith, one of the nation's leading scholars on electronic media, has been selected to receive the 2008 Distinguished Scholar Award from the Broadcast Education Association, considered the highest honor in the field. More



Waiting for America

Maxim ShrayerThe latest book by Professor of Russian and English Maxim D. Shrayer - 'Waiting for America: A Story of Emigration' - is featured in the Boston Globe's 'Off the Shelf' blog.

 


A virtuoso performer

Stephanie FernandesStephanie Fernandes '11, a piccolo player in the Screaming Eagles Marching Band, can hit a pitch-perfect double B-flat, but that's not the only amazing thing about this musical virtuoso who happens to be blind. Boston Globe

 


To bee or not to bee

Kay SchlozmanObservers say Moakley Professor of Political Science Kay Schlozman - aka 'The Wordmeister' - has turned the task of choosing words for an adult spelling bee benefit 'into an art form.' More

 


Retirees at risk

Alicia MunnellA new Center for Retirement Research report estimates some 61 percent of baby boomers and Gen Xers are 'at risk' of a lower standard of living in retirement when health care costs are factored in - numbers director Alicia Munnell deems 'shockingly large.' AP | UPI | ABC News



Religion in America

Alan WolfeBoisi Center for Religion and American Public Life Director Alan Wolfe discusses the results of a major Pew survey on religion in America on WGBH-TV's 'Greater Boston.' View video

 


Focus on Asian-American film

Tina KleinA new Asian-American film series organized by English Assoc. Prof. Tina Klein brings New York filmmakers to campus to discuss their work. The first presentation and screening is tonight. Boston Globe

 


Cancer research first

Thomas SeyfriedBC researchers led by biologist Thomas Seyfried have developed the first laboratory mouse model that mimics cancer's spread through the human body. More | Science Daily

 


Driven to succeed

Maxim ShrayerThe scholarly productivity and drive to succeed that characterize Professor of Russian and English Maxim D. Shrayer - author of the new memoir 'Waiting for America' - are highlighted by the Boston Globe.

 


Music builds bridges in the brain

Ellen WinnerTaking music lessons can strengthen connections between the two hemispheres of the brain in children, according to a study co-authored by Psychology Professor Ellen WinnerScience Magazine

 


Editing humor

Paul LewisProfessor of English Paul Lewis edited "The Muhammad Cartoons and Humor Research: A Collection of Essays," in HUMOR: International Journal of Humor Research 21-1 (2008), 1-46. About the Journal

 


Israel at 60

Eve SpanglerSociologist Eve Spangler's op-ed, "We Should Not Celebrate Dis-Possession," was published by Counterpunch.

 

 


Guidance toward a life path

Nathaniel HibnerDedicated to vocational discernment, Boston College's Manresa House provides guidance for students considering religious ministries. Read Nathaniel Hibner's story in the Boston Globe.

 


Carbon in the clouds

Paul DavidovitsThe testing of new tools to study the role of tiny airborne particles of carbon-laden soot in global climate change brought nearly 20 U.S. researchers to the lab of BC chemist Paul Davidovits. More | Science Daily | PhysOrg.com | Malaysia Sun | The Hindu

 


Down at the dump, townies mine for treasure

Juliet SchorBC sociologist Juliet Schor told the Boston Globe that consumer environmental awareness is making it fashionable to shop for secondhand items.

 

 


Social Security strategy

Alicia MunnellCenter for Retirement Research Director Alicia Munnell discussed strategies for claiming Social Security on PBS 'Nightly Business Report.' Transcript

 

 


A 'perfect' first

Willie PadillaPhysicist Willie J. Padilla and colleagues have designed the first metamaterial to demonstrate perfect absorption of all the light that strikes it. More | Science Daily

 


Theologian honored

Lisa CahillThe Catholic Theological Society of America this month presented its 2008 John Courtney Murray Award to BC's Monan Professor of Theology Lisa Sowle Cahill. Citation

 


Consumer diet

Juliet SchorSociologist Juliet Schor contends that global consumers must go on a 'diet' to help reduce carbon emissions and safeguard the environment. More

 

 


Crime story

Carlo RotellaAfter 15 books about a city torn by mob shootouts, gang wars, serial killers and street vengeance, Washington, DC crime novelist George Pelecanos may be ready for a little peace, writes American Studies Director Carlo Rotella in a cover story for the Washington Post MagazineQ&A

 


Scientists concerned for Georgia colleagues

Emanuel BombolakisBC geoscientist Emanuel Bombolakis and alumni have been helping colleagues in the former Soviet republic of Georgia, monitor earthquakes in a region now rocked by conflict with Russia. More | Project background

 


Targeting anti-cancer agents

Steven BrunnerAn enzyme within a powerful anti-cancer agent may prove useful in better targeting cancer cells and producing new drugs that are more stable, chemist Steven D. Bruner and colleagues report. More | Science Daily

 


Partial recall

Elizabeth KensingerPsychologist Elizabeth Kensinger explores how age and emotion affect what we remember. Audio from @BC

 

 


Texas custody case

Alan WolfeBoisi Center for Religion and American Public Life Director Alan Wolfe discussed a Texas court decision to return children who had been removed from a polygamous sect on WGBH-TV's "Greater Boston." Video

 


Remembering Bobby Kennedy

Kay SchlozmanJ. Joseph Moakley Professor of Politics Kay Schlozman is interviewed by NECN on the life and times of Robert F. Kennedy, forty years after his assassination. Video

 


Seismology at Sea Lab

Alan KafkaLocal fifth-graders are attending a class on seismology at New Bedford's Sea Lab taught by BC geophysicist Alan Kafka - a partnership designed to help improve the quality of science education in U.S. schools. More

 


Rage in South Africa

Zine MagubaneSociology Assoc. Professor Zine Magubane recently discussed growing racial tension at South Africa's University of the Free State on NPR's 'News and Notes.' More

 


Near perfect 'black'

Willie PadillaPhysicist Willie J. Padilla and colleagues working with metamaterials say they are near to achieving a surface that can absorb every photon that hits it. Nature

 

 


An action intellectual

David HollenbachAn editorial in America, the national Jesuit weekly, deems Center for Human Rights and International Justice Director David Hollenbach, S.J. to be an 'action intellectual' whose work exemplifies Catholic higher learning in service to the poor.



Americans and religion

BC faculty members comment on a survey by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, which found that most Americans consider themselves religious, yet non-dogmatic in their approach to faith. More


A look at Shanghai

Jay JinShanghai is very much a paradox of a city, writes Jay Jin '11, who has lived there for five years and currently is interning at Shanghai Daily. More

 

 


Art of Advocacy Award

Clare DunsfordAssociate Dean Clare Dunsford has won the Art of Advocacy Award, to be presented at the Genetic Alliance Awards Dinner on July 12, 2008. Clare's book, a memoir entitled Spelling Love With an X: A Mother, A Son, and the Gene That Binds Them, explores her life as a mother of a boy with fragile X syndrome, a genetic form of mental retardation caused by a mutation that is carried by several members of her family. Book Review


Noted website

Karl BadenPhotographer and BC faculty Karl Baden's website, Covering Photography, was reported to be a great web resource, one of great quality and merit, in the current edition of the Scout Report. Baden's site has also become part of the Internet Public Library and Intute.Org.



Campaign trail

Marc landyPolitical Science Professor Marc Landy discussed the results of a recent poll on Americans' views of Barack Obama, and was interviewed about the candidate's overseas trip, in two reports on NECN. Video 1 | Video 2

 


Rocking the vote

Noelle PetrilloAs part of her summer internship with a national, student-run non-profit, Noelle Petrillo '10 organized a panel of high-profile print and broadcast personalities to discuss the media's portrayal of young voters. More

 


The art of global PR

Martha BaylesBC's Martha Bayles reviews a book on the Cold War and the U.S. Information Agency for the Wall Street Journal.

 

 


Feast of St. Ignatius

Robert ImbelliJuly 31 is the feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus. BC theologian Rev. Robert Imbelli offers some reflections on the day and other subjects on Commonweal.com.

 


Body talk

Joseph TecceDuring a televised "60 Minutes" interview with Mike Wallace, Roger Clemens denied having used performance-enhancing steroids, but his body language said otherwise, reports BC Psychologist Joseph Tecce.

 


Chemist awarded Sloan Fellowship

Torsten FiebigBC physical chemist Torsten Fiebig has been awarded a highly prestigious Sloan Research Fellowship, intended to enhance the careers of outstanding young faculty. More

 


Speeding up the consumerism treadmill

Juliet SchorSociologist Juliet Schor was interviewed on NPR about society's fashion consumption and the toll it's taking on the Earth.

 

 


Sociologist honored

Paul SchervishThe International Association of Advisors in Philanthropy will present its highest recognition to Sociology Professor and Center on Wealth and Philanthropy Director Paul Schervish this month. More

 


On capital punishment, a message for all

Alan RogersCapital punishment and a commitment to due process are not compatible, writes History Professor Alan Rogers as Massachusetts approaches the 30th anniversary of its abolition of the death penalty. Boston Globe

 


Psychologist named Searle Scholar

Elizabeth KensingerAssistant Professor of Psychology Elizabeth Kensinger has been named a 2008 Searle Scholar, an honor that recognizes young faculty conducting important and innovative research. More

 


Chasing utopia, family imagines no possessions

Juliet SchorJuliet Schor, BC sociologist and author of "The Overspent American," was interviewed in the New York Times on families giving up their possessions.

 

 


The forgotten philosopher

Alan WolfeAcademe's specialization has left John Stuart Mill out in the cold, writes Boisi Center for Religion and American Public Life Director Alan Wolfe in the Chronicle of Higher Education Review.

 


Strangers in a foreign land

Martha BaylesMartha Bayles of the College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program writes on American colleges setting up shop in the Middle East, citing comments from Center on International Higher Education Director Philip Altbach. Wall Street Journal


Congressional Hearing on steroids

Joseph TeccePsychologist Joseph Tecce was interviewed by the New York Daily News on whether there were any indications of lying in the Congressional hearing on steroid use in professional baseball.

 


Useful anger

Maya TamirAngry outbursts often are considered bad for any sort of situation - but such emotions are potentially useful in confrontational tasks, report BC psychologist Maya Tamir and colleagues. UPI | Science Daily | Times of India

 


Praise for 'The Faithful'

James O'TooleA new chronicle of American Catholic laity by Clough Millennium Prof. in History James O'Toole is 'distinguished by its attentiveness to devotional life,' according to a review in America magazine. More

 

Profs weigh in on financial turmoil

Peter IrelandComments on the turbulent financial scene by Murray and Monti Prof. of Economics Peter Ireland and College of Arts & Sciences Dean Patrick Maney are featured on the Boston Globe's Business Update.

 


Work now, play later

Alicia MunnellWorking Longer, the latest book by Center for Retirement Research Director Alicia Munnell and Associate Director Steven Sass, is featured by the Boston Herald.

 


Congressional testimony

Lisa Feldman BarrettPsychologist Lisa Feldman Barrett was called to testify before Congress to explain the role of social science, behavioral, and economic research in improving the nation's health and reducing the economic burden of health care. Subcommittee on Research and Science Education | Psychology department news


Sowing the word

Pheme PerkinsScriptural understanding has flourished since Vatican II, but challenges remain, writes theologian Pheme Perkins in America magazine.

 

 


Cellular symmetry

David BurgessScientists including biologist David Burgess are placing sea urchin eggs in snug, microscopic chambers shaped like triangles, stars and ice cream cones to learn what cues tell a cell to divide at the center. Science Daily

 


'He loved BC'

Michael RuscitoAn open letter to the Boston College community from the mother of A&S senior Michael Christopher Ruscito. Boston Herald: Friends, faculty mourn promising Boston College student

 


1918 flu epidemic

Thomas O'ConnorUniversity Historian Tom O'Connor recalls the devastating worldwide influenza epidemic ninety years after it first hit Boston. Boston Herald

 

 


Sediment study

Noah SnyderA team led by BC geologist Noah Snyder will monitor changes along a 14-mile stretch of New Hampshire's Souhegan River following the removal of the century-old Merrimack Village Dam. More

 


New gene expression findings

Charles HoffmanBiologist Charles Hoffman and an international team of researchers report new findings about gene expression yielded from their study of a gene found in yeast. News Release | Genetic Engineering News | Science Daily | ScienceCentric (Bulgaria) | Biology News Net | PhysOrg



'The Given Day'

Carlo RotellaAuthor Dennis Lehane, a native son of Boston, paints a surprising and affectionate portrait of that staid burg as a snake pit of cutting-edge trouble, writes American Studies Director Carlo Rotella in a review of Lehane's latest book 'The Given Day.' Chicago Tribune



The election ed gap

Alan WolfeEach presidential election, pundits say, hangs on a crucial variable that divides one party from the other. This year's big dividing point, if a new Washington Post/ABC poll is to be believed, is education, writes political scientist Alan Wolfe for TNR's 'The Plank'.



On religion and politics

Lisa CahillWhen the Church is perceived to be a cheerleader for one political party, a rich faith tradition is badly damaged and loses its prophetic voice, writes Monan Prof. of Theology Lisa Sowle Cahill in National Catholic Reporter.

 


Humor in the presidential race

Paul LewisProfessor of English Paul Lewis discussed Sarah Palin's SNL appearance and the role of humor in the presidential race live on the CNN International Sunday World News program.

 


Birthday presents get a timeout from parents

Juliet SchorSociology Professor Juliet Schor was quoted in a Boston Globe article about parents planning birthday party themes to teach their children the spirit of giving.

 


The duality of Sarah Palin

Sharlene Hesse BiberSociologist Sharlene Hesse-Biber comments on public reaction to the 'beauty queen politician' duality of the GOP vice-presidential nominee in The Hill, the newspaper for and about the U.S. Congress. More

 


Render unto Caesar

Robert ImbelliIn the Holy newspaper L'Osservatore Romano, BC theologian Rev. Robert Imbelli reviews a timely book on the intersection of faith and politics. Catholic News Agency

 


An 'amazing' anthology

Maxim ShrayerProf. of Russian and English Maxim D. Shrayer's anthology of Jewish-Russian literature is deemed 'amazing' and 'a fascinating cultural phenomenon in itself' by a review in the London's East European Jewish Affairs journal. More

 


Sleep and memory

Elizabeth KensingerA study by BC psychologist Elizabeth Kensinger and colleagues suggests that sleep plays a key role in determining what we remember - and what we forget. Science Daily

 


Faith and Campaign 2008

John Paris, S.J.Walsh Professor of Bioethics John Paris, S.J. discussed with CNN's Lou Dobbs the appearances of John McCain and Barack Obama at the Saddleback Church faith forum hosted by Pastor Rick Warren. Read the program transcript (segment begins about halfway through).


Counting blinks and gaze aversions

Joseph TeccePsychologist Joseph Tecce recently presented a paper "Eye Movements and U.S. Presidential Elections" at the 14th World Congress of Psychophysiology in St. Petersburg, Russia. 

 


Party peer pressure

Juliet SchorFrom wild weddings to 'super sweet 16' bashes, over-the-top celebrations abound. Sociologist Juliet Schor and doctoral candidate Patricia Arend discuss the trend with the New York Times.

 


Campaign trail

Marc landyPolitical Science Professor Marc Landy discusses California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's endorsement of John McCain for president with NECN. Video

 

 


A matter of honor

Robert FaulknerPolitical scientist Robert Faulkner discusses his recent book on the unsung virtues of political ambition. Video from Boston College Libraries

 

 


How will America change?

Alan WolfeBoisi Center for Religion and American Public Life Director Alan Wolfe was among leaders asked how America will change as a result of the economic downturn by The New Republic's blog 'The Plank'.

 

 

Targeting anti-cancer agents

Steven BrunerAn enzyme within a powerful anti-cancer agent may prove useful in better targeting cancer cells and producing new drugs that are more stable, chemist Steven D. Bruner and colleagues report. More | Science Daily

 


Works on display

Karl BadenStudio Arts faculty member Karl Baden's work is currently in two exhibitions in Boston: 'PRC Portfolios: Then and Now' (Photographic Resource Center), and 'Artists Speak Out' (Miller-Block Gallery). Also on display at the Miller-Block Gallery, is work by Studio Arts faculty member Shiela Gallagher.


Outstanding production

Luke Jorgensen, Adjunct Associate Professor of Theatre, has won the Outstanding Creative Ensemble Award in recognition of his innovative staging and overall unity and high level of excellence in the BC production of Metamorphoses.


The art of global PR

Martha BaylesBC's Martha Bayles reviews a book on the Cold War and the U.S. Information Agency for the Wall Street Journal.

 

 


Distinguished award

Natasha SarkisianSociologist Natalia Sarkisian has won the 2008 Distinguished Contribution to Scholarship Article Award from the ASA's Race, Gender, and Class section for her article, "Extended Family Integration among Euro and Mexican Americans: Ethnicity, Gender, and Class."



The papal visit

Thomas GroomeBC theologian Thomas Groome discusses Pope Benedict's historic visit to the United States with NECN. View video

 

 


Era of cheap goods ends

Juliet Schor and Prasannan parthasarathiThe era of cheap goods is over, write History Associate Professor Prasannan Parthasarathi and Sociology Professor Juliet Schor, and broad-based reforms are needed to cushion higher prices for basic needs. Boston Globe



Waiting for America

Maxim ShrayerProfessor of Russian and English Maxim D. Shrayer recently discussed his new memoir 'Waiting for America' on WBZ-AM's 'Jordan Rich Show.' Listen here


 


Scientists concerned for Georgia colleagues

Emanuel BombolakisBC geoscientist Emanuel Bombolakis and alumni have been helping colleagues in the former Soviet republic of Georgia, monitor earthquakes in a region now rocked by conflict with Russia. More | Project background

 


Judge for yourself

Joseph TeccePsychologist Joseph Tecce elaborates on each candidate's "own personal style in the expression of body language."

 

 


Voter prudence, prioritization

Kenneth HimesVoters in the 2008 election should weigh the 'two p's' - prudence and prioritization, says BC theologian Kenneth Himes. BC Chronicle

 

 


Markets stall but spoiled always sells

Juliet SchorEven in our declining market, "Consumers still focus on the media's message; success depends on the right clothing, right friends, and right decor," commented sociologist Juliet Schor in the NY Times.

 


Award for energy-efficiency innovation

Zhifeng RenA pioneering thermoelectric material developed by GMZ Energy, a start-up founded by physicist Zhifeng Ren and colleagues, was among the Top 100 tech innovations of 2008. More

 


Relay for life

Some 900 participants recently gathered at the 'Plex for the University's first time hosting an all-night Relay for Life, raising more than $100,000 for the American Cancer Society and joining in a community effort that co-chair Shannon Sullivan '08 called 'a celebration of BC.'  The Heights


Book covers on exhibit

Karl Baden'Imitation, Influence... and Coincidence', a book exhibition conceived of and curated by Karl Baden, is on display at the Boston Public Library. More

 

 


Nothing to fear but fear itself

Joseph TeccePsychologist Joseph Tecce discusses the pros and cons of fear in an interview with the Star-Ledger.

 

 


USA Today All-Star

Kuone LySenior Kuong Ly - whose passion for helping the displaced earned a Truman award last year - has won a place on the 2008 All-USA College Academic First Team, USA Today's recognition program for outstanding students. More | Ly Profile (click to 6)



The endless pursuit of unnecessary things

Juliet SchorBC Sociologist Juliet Schor's research was discussed in this NYTimes.com blog.

 

 



True secularist

Alan WolfeSecularism doesn't necessarily rebuff religion in public life, but protects it, argues Alan Wolfe, director of BC's Boisi Center for Religion and American Public Life, in a Q&A with Newsweek.

 


Name that emotion

Lisa Feldman BarrettPsychology Professor Lisa Feldman Barrett's groundbreaking research on the neuroscience of emotion, supported by a $2.5 million NIH Pioneer Award, is featured Psychology Today.

 


Distinguished honor

Crystal TialaAssociate Professor of Design, Theatre, Crystal Tiala was honored by the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival for "Outstanding Service to Region 1."

 


'The Root'

Cynthia YoungCynthia Young, director of BC's African and African Diaspora Studies Program, discusses 'The Root' - a new Washington Post online magazine designed for a black audience - on WGBH-TV's 'Greater Boston.' Video (Requires Apple QuickTime version 7.3 or greater)



On Lent and Easter

Bruce MorrillAs Lent begins, writings by BC theologian Rev. Bruce Morrill, S.J., for Pauline Books' Growing in Faith site offer timely insights; one essay focuses on entering the Easter cycle, another on Lent as a liturgical season.

 


In the blink of an eye

Joseph TecceAccording to psychologist Joseph Tecce, analyzing how rapidly (or slowly) candidates blink has proven to be a fairly accurate tool in predicting who is most likely to capture the White House. Wellesley Townsman

 

Easy as pi

James Niles JoyalSome people have trouble memorizing a zip code or password. And then there's James Niles-Joyal '08, bidding to become North America's pre-eminent memorizer of pi. Read his story and other campus news in the latest BC Chronicle.



Outstanding contributions to mechanism design

Tayfun SonmezEconomics Professor Tayfun Sonmez has been selected as the 4th recipient of the Social Choice and Welfare Prize, to be officially awarded at the 2008 International Meeting of the Society for Social Choice and Welfare in Montreal.

 


Diversity in Middle East studies

Franck SalamehWriting in FrontPage Magazine, Assistant Professor Franck Salameh writes on the need to present the 'diverse and richly textured Middle East, in all its complexities, gore, and glory.'

 


'The forgotten truth'

James MorrisAn act of kindness by a family in Morocco led to a journey of spiritual discovery for BC theologian and noted scholar of mystic Islam James Morris, who is featured by Malaysia's New Straits Times.

 


Desert river erosion

Noah SnyderGeologist Noah Snyder's study in Death Valley, CA of the effects of a river diverted in 1941 to protect a nearby village provides new insights into the interaction of changes in climate and erosion. His findings are published in the February issue of the journal Geology.


Economic outlook

Peter IrelandMurray and Monti Professor of Economics Peter Ireland was interviewed on the outlook for a U.S. recession this year by Reuters news service. Read the piece in the Montreal Gazette.

 


'Rich kid syndrome'

Paul SchervishAmerica's burgeoning money culture is producing a record number of heirs, along with questions about how this treasury will be used. Center on Wealth and Philanthropy Director Paul Schervish discusses the subject with New York Magazine.

 

A virtuoso performer

Stephanie FernandesStephanie Fernandes '11, a piccolo player in the Screaming Eagles Marching Band, can hit a pitch-perfect double B-flat, but that's not the only amazing thing about this musical virtuoso who happens to be blind. Boston Globe

 


Before you go

Peter KreeftWhat goes unsaid during life stays unsaid when you're dead—prompting Philosophy Professor Peter Kreeft to reflect on the need to express love 'before you go.' His latest book, which bears that title, is featured by the Boston Globe.

 

National Jewish Book Award

Maxim D. ShrayerBC's Maxim D. Shrayer has won a National Jewish Book Award for his anthology of Jewish Russian-Literature, the Jewish Book Council has announced. More

 

 

Undergrad research spurs book

Katherine AdamFor Katherine Adam '07, what started as research for her senior sociology thesis has evolved into a new book, already on store shelves across the country. The Heights 

 


Nanonets

Dunwei WantChemist Dunwei Wang and colleagues have conquered a longstanding engineering challenge in nanotechnology by creating nanonets, a flexible webbing of nano-scale wires that has potential applications in microelectronics and clean energy. More | UPI | Science Daily | Cellular News (UK) | Daily India | Nanotechwire


Working longer

Alicia MunnellAs headlines warn Americans that their retirement years may be far from golden, Center for Retirement Research Director Alicia Munnell discusses their options with US News & World Report and on WBUR-FM's 'Here and Now'.

 


Overflow crowd for an open-air chamber

Willie PadillaA first in metamaterials A team led by BC physicist Willie Padilla report in Nature Photonics engineering a new metamaterial composite to bridge the electromagnetic spectrum's 'terahertz gap,' a phenomenon that has defied researchers until now. More | Science Daily



A 'war hero' candidate

Charles DerberSociology Professor Charles Derber reflects on use of the term 'war hero' in campaign rhetoric as co-author of an op-ed in the Christian Science Monitor.

 

 


Wadlebury

Andrew SoferAndrew Sofer's poem, "Wandlebury Ring," that was set to music by award-winning composer Kevin Beavers, was performed at the Washington Square Music Festival in NYC. Sofer's piece was praised by classical music critic Allan Kozinn in his NY Times review.



'Last lectures'

Michael ReslerGerman Studies Professor Michael Resler reflects on what he would try to convey to his students in a last lecture. Boston Globe

 

 


Working longer

Alicia MunnellThe new book 'Working Longer: The Solution to the Retirement Income Challenge' by Alicia Munnell and Steven Sass of the Center for Retirement Research is featured by the New York Times. About the book

 


Census shift

Sharlene Hesse-BiberIn an interview on NECN, Sociologist Sharlene Hesse-Biber discusses a new government projection showing whites will no longer make up the majority of Americans by 2042. Video

 


Six months in South Africa

Luke HughesBC junior Luke Hughes, drawn to South Africa to study the country's history of dealing with apartheid, is interviewed about his time at the University of Cape Town by the Boston Globe.

 

 


NBC taps Russert for convention coverage

Luke RussertLuke Russert '08 will take the reins as a correspondent for NBC News by covering youth issues at the upcoming Democratic and Republican national conventions. Boston Herald | MSNBC

 


Fame game

Carlo RotellaAmerican Studies Director Carlo Rotella writes on boxing great Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s pursuit of 'mainstream fame and money a la Paris Hilton' for the New York Times.

 


A legacy of beauty

Sheila BlairCalderwood Professor of Islamic and Asian Art Sheila Blair discusses the place of calligraphy in Islam's rich tradition of decorative arts. US News & World Report

 


Newly published book

Elizabeth KensingerPsychology Professor Elizabeth Kensinger's new book, "Emotional Memory Across the Adult Lifespan," about how we remember emotional experiences better than unemotional ones, was published December 10th by Psychology Press. More



'Working Longer'

Alicia MunnellA new book co-authored by Center for Retirement Research Director Alicia Munnell and Associate Director Steven Sass - is highlighted in the Wall Street Journal.

 


Teaching award

Kevin KennyProfessor of History Kevin Kenny is the recipient of the 2008 Boston College Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Doctoral Faculty Teaching Award, for significant contribution to the teaching of students pursuing doctorates.

 


'Wicked good' Bostonisms

Michael ConnollyLinguistics Professor Michael J. Connolly offers insights into the comings and goings of singularly Bostonian expressions. Boston Globe

 

 


BC 'raven-ous' for Poe

Paul LewisTwo hundred years after Edgar Allan Poe was born in Boston, a band of BC scholars and students led by English Prof. Paul Lewis are working to help the city reclaim the master of the macabre. Boston Globe | BC's Poe Celebration

 


Eye on the candidates

Joseph TeccePsychologist Joseph Tecce shared insight into the presidential candidates' stress levels during debates live on Fox TV Boston. View video FoxBoston News | Reuters | Chronicle of Higher Ed | Daily News Tribune | WBZ-AM | YouTube

 


Lifetime Achievement Award

David KarpSociologist David Karp has been awarded the 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award, for a career of outstanding contributions to the sociology of emotions.

 



Labor of love

Robert ImbelliBC theologian Reverend Robert Imbelli offers reflections on a milestone lecture delivered by Cardinal Avery Dulles earlier this month. America

 

 


Small change, big changes

Lauren GalinskyLauren Galinsky '09 is at the forefront of Small Change, Big Changes, a project that will teach middle and high school students about development efforts in poor countries and the use of microlending. Boston Globe

  


Murphy's Law

Kathleen MurphyBrighton native Kathleen Murphy '09, a member of the BC field hockey team, is battling multiple sclerosis. But as the Boston Herald's Steve Buckley writes, Murphy has a lot of fight in her--and a lot of friends to help: "I'm going to keep going on and living my life until it does hit, and even if it does, I'm not going to let it slow me down." Story


Judging presidential greatness

Marc landyPolitical scientist Marc Landy is among scholars asked to assess the financial rescue initiative's effect on how the Bush presidency will be viewed. Wall Street Journal