The concert will conclude a daylong event involving honor band members representing 58 high schools from all six New England states.

The students were chosen from more than 300 who applied for the festival from a total of 62 high schools. Selection was based on students' individual musical achievements while attending the schools they are representing. More than two-thirds of those selected have been members of their respective all-state bands or orchestras.

Guest conductors for the 2009 festival are Robert Sheldon and Christopher Tucker. Both are internationally known composers of band music and have many published and recorded works to their credit.

The festival bands will share the concert with the Plymouth State University Symphonic Band, conducted by Professor Gary Corcoran. The Colonial Brass of the United States Air Force Band of Liberty will join with the PSU Band in a performance of a suite from "Mass" by Leonard Bernstein.

The university band will perform works by Paul Dukas, Edward Madden and Percy Grainger. Mezzo-soprano Heather Jacques will be featured with the Symphonic Band in a performance of Christopher Tucker's "Earth, the Gentlest Mother."

Tickets for the performance are $7 at the Silver Center Box Office, (603) 535-ARTS or (800) 779-3869.

]]> 11/17/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6739 PLYMOUTH, N.H. - The PSU Guitar Ensemble kicks off a series of Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance programs in December with a concert at 7 p.m. December 1 in the Smith Recital Hall. The eight-performer program will feature music from Ottmar Liebert, classical solo and trio pieces, jazz tunes with a tribute to the legendary Les Paul and several original compositions. Free tickets are available at the Silver Center Box Office, (603) 535-ARTS.

Up next are the PSU Chamber Players, at 7 p.m. December 2. The concert will feature a selection of performers from such groups as the Trumpet Ensemble, Flute Choir, Clarinet Choir and Woodwind Quintet. Two piano duos comprising Marni Balint and Alyssa Costa, and Professor Carleen Graff and Costa, will join this program. Free tickets for this concert in the recital hall are also available at the Silver Center Box Office.

PSU Jazz Ensembles will perform in the recital hall at 7 p.m. December 3. The program will feature the Jazz Combo, "a quintet of students playing straight ahead' jazz with compositions by Art Blakey and Ellis Marsalis," according to jazz instructor Jimmy Alba. The PSU Jazz Band will play a variety of modern jazz band arrangements,including some exciting swing and Latin charts. Vocalist Krystal Morin will sing with the band. Jazz Ensemble tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and youth at the Silver Center Box Office.

December 4 and 5 will find members of the Contemporary Dance Ensemble (CDE) on the Hanaway Theatre stage, in an evening of dance that highlights adjudicated works by student choreographers. A variety of dance genres including tap, ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop and musical theatre will be represented in the works of both faculty and student choreographers. The PSU Dance Team will also join the program. Tickets for the CDE recital are $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and youth at the Silver Center Box Office.

The PSU choirs will join a double string quartet and Akwaaba, a Ghanaian drumming ensemble, to present A Joyful Noise, Sunday, December 6 at 3 p.m. in the Hanaway Theatre. The diverse program includes Bach's motet for double choir, Komm, Jesu, Komm; carols by Stephen Paulus and Mack Wilberg with audience participation, and African carols.

Tickets for A Joyful Noise are $10-8 for adults, $9-7 for seniors and $7-5 for youth at the Silver Center Box Office, (603) 535-ARTS.

A December 9 performance by the PSU Percussion Ensemble that features percussion instruments from around the world will top off a busy week for Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance students. With music from traditional to contemporary, the performances promise an exciting blend of both visual and sonic diversity. Tickets for the Percussion Ensemble program in the Smith Recital Hall are $4 for adults and $2 for seniors and youth.

Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University.

]]> 11/9/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6751 PLYMOUTH, N.H. - The PSU choirs will share the Hanaway Theatre stage with Akwaaba, a Ghanaian drumming ensemble, and a double string quartet at 3 p.m. December 6 when they present A Joyful Noise.

According to Professor Dan Perkins, director, the University Chorale has spent the fall semester exploring the style and traditions of carols from throughout the world.

This concert will include traditional carols arranged by Stephen Paulus and Mack Wilberg that will give the audience a chance to sing along, as well as carols from Nigeria, Zambia and South Africa. The diverse program also includes Bach's motet for double choir, "Komm, Jesu, Komm."

"Since our first collaboration with Akwaaba in 2007, the PSU choirs have been eager to renew that relationship," Perkins said.

The Akwaaba Traditional African Drum and Dance Ensemble was formed by Theo Nii Martey during a tour with Brekete Ensemble in London. It brings together a group of friends who have been drumming and dancing together for many years in Ghana and the UK. The group includes past members of the National Dance Ensemble, Brekete Ensemble and the Shidaa cultural troupe. "Akwaaba" means "welcome" in the Twi language of the Ashanti tribe of Ghana.

Martey, director of Akwaaba, and Perkins will present a series of workshops at three high schools in New England prior to the concert.

Tickets for A Joyful Noise are $10-8 for adults; $9-7 for seniors and $7-5 for youth at the Silver Center Box Office, (603) 535-Arts or (800) 779-3869.

Information about the program and participants is available from Professor Perkins via e-mail to danp@plymouth.edu.

Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University.

]]> 11/9/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6752 PLYMOUTH, N.H. - Nineteen Plymouth State University Department of Art faculty will exhibit their work in the Karl Drerup Art Gallery during the 2009 Faculty Exhibition, Nov. 4 - Dec. 9.

The public exhibition presents opportunities for students and members of the community to become better acquainted with art department faculty and directly engage with the range and breadth of their work.

An opening reception will be held at the gallery from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4. Gallery talks are scheduled at noon on November 10 (The Path of an Artist) and November 18 (Artistic Philosophy).

Department of Art Chair Cynthia Vascak said, "The annual faculty exhibition is a vital tradition at PSU that invites our entire community to celebrate and honor the multifaceted creative and expressive talents of our faculty. The exhibition highlights new creative directions and/or projects that exemplify the artists' lifelong passion, practice and pursuit of beauty and meaning,a constant evolution and exploration of mastery and a quest for ever-deepened insights and understandings of self, world and other."

The exhibition presents work in ceramic, drawing, landscape design, sculpture, printmaking, painting, photography and graphic arts.

Exhibiting this year are John Anderson, Elizabeth D'Amico, Tom Driscoll, Greg Finley, Bill Haust, Michael Heffernan, Philip Inwood and Carol Jowdy. Also Jong-Yoon Kim, Phil Lonergan, Dave Martin, Annette Mitchell, Jay Moskowitz, Nick Sevigney, Kathi Smith, Jason Swift, Cynthia Vascak, Lauren von Duyke-Dadmun and Joan Wirth.

Exhibitor Nick Sevigney said, "Being an artist is a big part of being a member of any art department. If you are not working and participating in the larger art community it is difficult to tell students what it takes to be an artist. I really enjoy my teaching practice but love making art. To strengthen my teaching practice, the importance of using my skills as an artist is essential. The energy, enthusiasm and technical expertise I employ in my own studio help me demonstrate and teach craftsmanship, creativity and analytical skills to my students in the university studio. It is important that students know this and see the results of what faculty make in an exhibit."

Drerup Gallery is open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Wednesday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and by appointment.

For gallery information call (603) 535-2614 or log on to www.plymouth.edu/artdept.

Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University.

Annette Mitchell "Inspiration" quilt detail.

Jason Swift "Hold it Softly" installation.

-end- ]]> 11/3/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6735 Tipsheet of PSU events scheduled in November is available at http://www.plymouth.edu/news/tipsheets/Nov09tips.pdf. ]]> 11/1/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6696 PLYMOUTH, N.H.--Julie Mertus, associate professor and co-director of the Master of Arts program in ethics, peace and global affairs at American University will discuss globalization and changes in the United Nations human rights system that provide new opportunities and an expanded range of tools to use to address human wrongs and to advance human rights at the Sidore Lecture Series Nov. 17 on the campus of Plymouth State University.

Mertus says the UN and non-governmental organizations are promoting a more just and peaceful future through greater participation in problem solving and conflict prevention.

Mertus, author of The United Nations and Human Rights, is a leading expert on civic education and the United Nations. Her work focuses on human rights education, U.S. foreign policy, refugee and humanitarian law and policy, gender and conflict and post-war transitions.

While her geographic expertise is in Central and Eastern Europe and the former Yugoslavia, she has participated in human rights projects in many locations including Vietnam, Brazil, China, Jordan and South Africa.

Mertus will speak at 7 p.m. in Smith Recital Hall, Silver Center for the Arts.

Free tickets are available at the Silver Center Box Office, (603) 535-ARTS or (800) 779-3869.

For information, contact Professor Mark Fischler at (603) 535-3143 or via e-mail to mjfischler@plymouth.edu.

The next speaker in the series will be February 16, 2010: Robert Pollin, professor of economics at the University of Massachusetts and Co-Director of the Political Economy Research Institute. Professor Pollin will speak on "How Green Economics Can Revive the Economy. The theme for the 2009-2010 series is "Educating for Global Citizenship." General information about events at Plymouth State University is online at ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu.

]]> 11/1/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6740 PLYMOUTH, N.H. - New Hampshire and Vermont artists represented by Two Rivers Printmaking Studio have works on display at Lamson Library and Learning Commons on the campus of Plymouth State University October 26-January 29.

The studio's 2008 Portfolio Show comprises works by 26 artist members, each of whom contributed prints or artist's proofs demonstrating a broad range of old and new printmaking techniques.

Exhibitors in this show are Jennifer Anderson, Ian Baldwin, Lois Masor Beatty, Penelope Bennett, Susan Airris Berry, Amparo Carvajal-Hufschmid, Jennifer Cintron, Betsey Garand, Daniel Gottsegen, Rachel Gross and Louise Hamlin.

Also Ann Audley Holloway, Debra Jayne, Jenevieve Alyssa Johnson, Judy Lampe, Carol Lippman, Nori Lupfer, Elizabeth Mayor, Mary Mead, Josh Melrod, Sue Schiller, Rebekah A.L. Tolley, Sherri Hancock-Tomek, Sheryl Trainor, Nancy Wightman and Bert Yarborough.

"We are really excited to display these remarkable prints," said David Beronä, dean of the library and academic support services. "Normally our print portfolios are kept in our Special Collections and available for private viewing. The quality and inspiring subject matter of these prints, however, need to be seen by a wider public, which is the reason I wanted the prints framed and on display. What a great opportunity to support the work of living and breathing printmakers in our area."

Images of works in the show are online at tworiversprintmaking.com. Click on the "portfolio" button and select 2008. Artist biographies are also available online.

Two Rivers Printmaking Studio is a nonprofit teaching and learning workspace located in White River Junction, Vt., that is run cooperatively by its member artists. The studio hosts classes, exhibitions and lectures by artists, curators and collectors to help build interest in the art and history of printmaking.

Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University.

Images:

1. Jennifer Anderson, "Passage" 8 X 6 shaped plate hard-ground etching with aquatint

2. Louise Hamlin, "Watermelon" 7 X 5.5 soft-ground etching with surface roll

]]> 10/29/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6733

PLYMOUTH, N.H.-Continuing a tradition of providing exceptional programs in Business, Plymouth State University has established the College of Business Administration and has named longtime Business Department Chair and Professor Trent Boggess as the College's founding Dean. Dr. Boggess received his undergraduate degree in History and German, and his master's in Economics from Bowling Green University and his Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Kansas. Before joining the faculty of Plymouth State, Dr. Boggess was employed by the Ford Motor Company and an Assistant Professor of Economics at Kent State University. Since 1983 Dr. Boggess has been a member of the Business Department faculty and has served as Director, Assistant Chair and Chair of the Department since 1992. Dr. Boggess has an international reputation for his knowledge of the products and business practices during the early years of the Ford Motor Company, particularly with respect to the design, development and production of the Model T Ford. He was a founding member of the Board of Directors of the Model T Heritage Complex, Inc, a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the Ford's Piquette Avenue Plant, the birthplace of the Model T. As part of his public service and scholarship, Dr. Boggess has contributed over 2500 volunteer hours to the Benson Ford Research Center.

Trent Boggess has been named Dean of PSU's College of Business Administration

PSU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Julie Bernier said she has great respect for Dr. Boggess as a leader in business administration.

"Dr. Boggess has led the department through a period of unprecedented growth," Bernier said. "He is innovative and has the vision necessary to lead the college as its first Dean. I look forward to working with him in shaping the future of this newly created college."

The College of Business Administration will continue to provide Bachelor of Science degree programs in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, Marketing and Management and at the graduate level, the Master of Business Administration.

"The current economic situation offers a wealth of opportunities for well-trained students in the global marketplace," said Boggess. "The programs we offer in the College of Business Administration are preparing our graduates to enter the workforce poised for success."

There are 850 undergraduate Business majors and 225 graduate students currently enrolled in PSU Business programs.

In just the past year, the PSU business faculty developed several new programs for both undergraduate and graduate students. For example, the recent restructuring of the Bachelor's degree in Marketing produced three new options; Integrated Marketing Communication, Public Relations, and Professional Sales Leadership. To better serve New Hampshire's business needs, an option in Small Business and Entrepreneurship has been added to the Bachelor of Science in Management.

The PSU MBA was recently expanded to offer an International Business Certificate in partnership with the University of Babes-Bolyai in Cluj, Romania, whereby courses are taught by both UBB and PSU faculty. Additionally, this summer, PSU signed an agreement with the American University Antigua to offer the Plymouth MBA with a certificate in Health Care Administration to AUA's medical students.

PSU's MBA is offered around the state and online and offers six specialized certificates in Investment and Finance, Strategic Marketing Management, Organizational Communication, The Human Side of Enterprise, International Business, and Health Care Administration. The PSU Small Business Institute (SBI) program is nationally recognized for the quality of its students' projects and in 2007, was named best SBI program in the country.

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu ]]> 10/22/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6725

PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Seven Plymouth State graduates have been honored with Alumni Recognition awards for service to the school, community and their professional achievements. The 2009 Alumni Awards were presented Saturday, Oct. 17 at Heritage Commons as part of Homecoming and Family Celebration Weekend.

Here are the award recipients:

Distinguished Alumni Service Award: Larry Haynes 1986

The Distinguished Alumni Service Award, established in 1963, recognizes the graduate who through unselfish devotion and loyalty has served Plymouth State University and/or its alumni organizations. To be eligible, a graduate shall have rendered unusual service in the form of: faithful and continued effort in such areas as maintaining class or other alumni organizations; active participation in alumni or university affairs; and assistance in expanding the usefulness, influence and prestige of the university. Haynes, a member of the President's Council and the USNH Board of Trustees, said he was surprised at being chosen.

"It's very humbling to be included in such a prestigious group," Haynes said. "I've always wanted to contribute in a small way, certainly it's a thrill to be recognized."

Alumni Achievement Award: Fred Bramante G06

Established in 1978, and modified in 1991, the Alumni Achievement Award recognizes deserving alumni who exemplify the university's motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve) through active participation in and special contribution to, the activities of the PSU Alumni Association, their chosen professional field, or the improvement of society in general. Bramante, a successful businessman and former state school board chair, has long advocated reforming school systems to include real world learning,' like involving local businesses in offering mentoring opportunities to students. Bramante said the Alumni award is significant to him.

"It's a recognition that the work I've been putting forward has merit and people are starting to accept it and move in a new direction in improving schools around the country," said Bramante.

The Ut Prosim Award: Richard Wylie 1963

The Ut Prosim Award, established in 1998, recognizes an alumna or alumnus whose exemplary community service and contributions in business, professional, civic, philanthropic, volunteer or similar activities are worthy of recognition and have brought honor to Plymouth State University and exemplify the University's motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve). Primary volunteer service shall not be to Plymouth State University, but to the community. Types of service include, but are not limited to:

• Elected office or other civic involvement

• Community improvement programs (Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Girl/Boy Scout leadership, Homelessness Task Force, etc.)

• Service society membership (Lion's Club, Kiwanis, etc.)

• Leadership in professional organizations.

Wylie is the longtime President of Endicott College in Beverly, Mass., and has served as a professor and administrator at the University of Connecticut, Temple University, the University of Colorado, and Lesley College. He is very involved with community volunteering, sitting on numerous boards including banks, corporations and non-profit agencies. Wylie said giving back to the community is an integral part of his life and it was nurtured when he was an undergraduate student in Plymouth.

"It reinforces what I learned at Plymouth, giving and caring does make a difference," Wylie said. "I think we can be models to others and encourage others to do it; I'm greatly appreciative of this award."

Plymouth State University Alumni Association 2009 honorees, from left to right, Amanda Crean, Christina Labriola, Gene Martin, Class of 2009 Officers who received the Graduating Senior Award of Excellence, Kim Rawson Sychterz, Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award, Linda Levy, Faculty/Staff Award of Excellence, Heidi Pettigrew, Recent Alumni Award of Excellence, Fred Bramante, Alumni Achievement Award, Larry Haynes, Distinguished Alumni Service Award, and Richard Wylie, Ut Prosim Award.

Recent Alumni Award of Excellence: Heidi Pettigrew 1999, G07

Established in 2008, the Recent Alumni Award of Excellence is awarded to alumni who have graduated within the last 10 years, in recognition of professional excellence and outstanding service to the University, association, community and/or nation. Pettigrew received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from PSU and is currently the Marketing Manager for PSU's College of Graduate Studies. Pettigrew said she is deeply honored to receive the award.

"As a student, Plymouth prepared me with the skills and knowledge I needed to succeed professionally," Pettigrew said. "Now, as an employee, Plymouth has given me the opportunity identify and pursue my professional interests; connect and collaborate with staff, faculty, students, and alumni; and explore and implement new ideas to best serve the University and our constituents. I look forward to continuing to serve Plymouth State-as an employee and proud alum."

Faculty/Staff Award of Excellence: Linda Levy G04 - HHP

Established in 2008, the Faculty/Staff Award of Excellence is awarded to a faculty or staff member who exhibits a commitment to supporting alumni and students connections in a campus environment. Levy, an HHP associate professor, said she hoped that she can continue to give as much to the University as she has received.

"It's very humbling to receive an award from an alumni association," said Levy. "For me, it's just a way to give back to a place that's given me so much."

Graduating Senior Award of Excellence: The Class of 2009 Officers (Eugene Martin, Christina Labriola, Amanda Crean)

Established in 2008, the Graduating Senior Award of Excellence is awarded to a graduating member of the incoming alumni class who exhibits outstanding campus and community leadership while enhancing alumni activities. Martin said the Class of 2009 started a scholarship program for students of the ALLWell Center because it's a gift that will directly aid students.

"We chose the class gift to better the institution, rather than just giving a bench or something tangible, we're giving chances for scholarships to help the ALLWell Center, so hopefully we've set the bar for the next set of folks," Martin said.

Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award : Kim Rawson Sychterz G09

Established in 2008, the Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award is awarded to a graduate alum who through earning an advanced degree has been able to impact their profession, community or society in a positive and meaningful manner. Rawson Sychterz credits PSU's faculty with her success and said the award reflects their hard work.

"It's a huge honor," said Rawson Sychterz. "The faculty have given me so many opportunities; they've helped me become what I am today and accomplish the things I have today."

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu ]]> 10/19/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6719

PSU Business professor Daniel Lee explains the development of the North Country Economic Index at a meeting at Plymouth State University Sept. 28.

PSU's North Country Economic Index presentation was reported across the nation by the Associated Press and NECN in New England.

Plymouth, N.H. - Plymouth State University is developing a new informational tool to help bolster the economy in northern New Hampshire. The North Country Economic Index (NCEI) will be a periodic index containing detailed information about the economic climate in Coos County and northern New Hampshire.

Business professors Daniel Lee and Vedran Lelas say the economic indicators currently available don't offer enough information to base important personal, business or governmental financial decisions on, so they are developing a customized collection of data that will be available free of charge. Lee said everyone who has interest in the North Country can benefit from this project.

"We're going to provide economic indicators that cover the overall economy in the North Country," Lee said. "People buying or selling a home or business, looking for employment or planning major financial moves can all make better informed decisions with this data."

The NCEI includes rooms and meals tax collections, home sales, manufacturing and trade sales, building permits, electricity sales and personal income data.

PSU President Sara Jayne Steen said the NCEI is a great example of the University making a difference with innovation and expertise.

"We offer real world solutions to real world problems," Steen said. "We are serving this region with excellence and we have a special responsibility to the Lakes region and the North Country that we take seriously."

Thad Guldbrandsen, executive director of PSU's Center for Rural Partnership, said the NCEI is part of PSU's goal to provide assistance to the state.

"We have a lot of resources on campus and we want to harness the potential that we have here at PSU to make the region a better place to live. The way to do that is to connect out to the people who need the information," Guldbrandsen said.

The NCEI will initially cover Coos County, but Carroll and Grafton counties will be included in future reports.

The NCEI was developed through a partnership with the Neil and Louise Tillotson Fund of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, the Coos County Outreach Initiative and PSU's Center for Rural Partnerships.

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu

PLYMOUTH, N.H. - Five new exhibitions will fill the Plymouth State University galleries with illustrations; photograph and poetry collages; textile history, function and design; and faculty works this fall.

Up and Down: Overview Effect by Pat Musick opens at the Karl Drerup Art Gallery in the Draper and Maynard Building September 9.

Working with her husband, Jerry Carr, Musick produces work that reflects her affinity to nature. "My art is a reflection of the tensions that exist between mankind and the natural environment. It addresses the havoc that we have done to the natural world and the devastation that the natural world has wreaked upon mankind. I search for ways to create harmony and reconciliation of this situation both in the media and the content," Musick said.

In 2002, following the tradition of Christo, and inspired by installation artist Andy Goldsworthy; Musick, Carr and a crew created an art installation titled Stone Songs on the Trail of Tears that traveled along the path followed by the Cherokees during their forced migration in 1883.

"Pat Musick's work blends natural materials and minimalist forms to create mixed media work that is simultaneously simple and complex," says Drerup Gallery Director Catherine Amidon.

A gallery talk, "Art, Ecology and Collaboration," is scheduled for 4-5 p.m. Wed., September 30 in the gallery. Two exhibitions open September 9 at the Silver Center for the Arts on Main Street in Plymouth, and run through September 26.

Seasons on Eagle Pond are brought to life in Poetry of Place, an exhibition by former U.S and New Hampshire poet laureate Donald Hall and photographer Sheila Pallay. Halls poems, including "Waters," "The Moon," "The Wish," "The Hunkering," "Summer," "Affirmation" and "The Master" are accompanied by photographs taken at Eagle Pond in Wilmot, N.H., where both live.

"The word and image relationship in this exhibition revives the tradition of intertwining different perceptual experiences," explains Amidon.

Using a Canon 50D digital camera, Pallay prefers to use natural light to "put an impressionist twist on things." "Nature provides such amazing opportunities," said Pallay. "I like to have my breath taken away."

In "Summer," Hall says of the pond, " this is not a circle of water/with a few ducks in it: it's/twenty-five acres, shaped like a humpbacked whale ". A gallery talk, "Word and Image," will be held from 4-5 p.m. Wed., September 16 at the Silver Center.

The exhibition, Illustration by Gloria Kamen presents more than 20 pastel and watercolor portraits of classical composers, an expansion of work in her book, Hidden Music. The collection includes images of female composers that relate to the larger question of women's place in the world of music in their time.

Gloria Kamen is an award-winning illustrator, particularly of children's books such as The Little Kingdom, Three Wishes for Abner, Second-Hand Cat, and the Betty Crocker Cookbook for Boys and Girls.

"The varied background of each portrait is an attempt to create a sense of the varied types of music, some using an ethnic or popular mode, some creating a new style of their own," said Kamen.

Other exhibitions in the fall semester are:

Textiles: Pattern, Ornament, and Culture, October 7­-December 5 at the Silver Center.

This double exhibition explores aspects of broad textile history, manufacturing and design and follows the career of one individual, mapping how these aspects influence his work.

The extensive career of textile designer Amin Kalaf brings to life three decades of American textile design.

A panel discussion, "Weaving, Industry and Design," with Amin Kalaf, Danile Moore and Catherine Amidon will be held October 21 from 4-5 p.m. in Heritage Commons on Highland Street.

Faculty Exhibition, November 4-December 9 at the Karl Drerup Art Gallery. An opportunity for students and members of the PSU community to become acquainted with Department of Art faculty outside the classroom, as artists working in a variety of media.

Two gallery talks are planned in conjunction with this exhibition: "The Path of an Artist" on November 10 and "Artistic Philosophy" on November 18. Both talks are in the Karl Drerup Art Gallery at noon. .

2009 Faculty Exhibition, November 4-December 9 at the Karl Drerup Art Gallery. An opportunity for students and members of the PSU community to become acquainted with Department of Art faculty outside the classroom, as artists working in a variety of media.

Karl Drerup Art Gallery hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Wednesday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and by appointment. Silver Center hours are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and weekends noon-5 p.m. All venues are closed most University holidays.

Gallery information is available online at www.plymouth.edu/gallery or by calling the Karl Drerup Art Gallery, (603)535-2614.

Log on to ThisWeek@PSU, http://thisweek.blogs.plymouth.edu for general information about events at Plymouth State University. ]]> 9/21/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6684

"A Conversation With Amory Lovins"

PLYMOUTH, N.H.-- The world's energy usage and dependence on fossil fuels could be reduced drastically through efficiency measures that are currently available, according to world-renowned energy efficiency expert Amory Lovins.

Lovins, chairman and chief scientist of the Rocky Mountain Institute and one of Time magazine's 2009's 100 most influential people in the world, spoke September 1 at Plymouth State University, where he received a honorary doctorate degree of science. Lovins claims the world's dependence on fossil fuels is the crux of many political, climate and economic problems, and innovative technologies and business strategies currently available can be implemented to achieve a vastly improved quality of life within three decades.

"We have a long way to go," Lovins said. "But it's cheaper to save fuel than to buy fuel; efficiency is cheaper than fuel, so actually we should be talking about profits, jobs and competitive advantage, which makes the politics a lot easier."

Lovins noted many multi-national corporations are already saving billions of dollars through energy efficiency, which also reduces pollution from greenhouse gas emissions. Lovins asserts that the United States can wean itself from oil by 2040, led by businesses seeking profits.

"We've already doubled the efficiency of oil since 1975, and it turns out we can double it again with an average cost of $12 per saved barrel. We can replace about 3/5 of the oil with natural gas and 2/5 advanced bio fuels that don't have anything to do with the food system."

Lovins also says we can triple the efficiency of cars, trucks and airplanes by using ultra-light carbon fiber materials and smaller, lighter engines. As an example, Lovins says in most of today's passenger cars, only three-tenths of one percent of the total energy needed to move the vehicle is used to transport the passenger.

"Three-quarters of what it takes to move the car is caused by its weight, and every unit of energy you save at the wheel saves another seven that you don't need to waste getting it to the wheels, so there's enormous leverage in making the car radically lighter weight, whether through metal or composite solutions."

Lovins said electric energy efficiency is rapidly advancing in the U.S., but there is plenty of room for improvement.

"70 percent of electricity produced in the U.S. is used by buildings, 30 percent is used by industry, and three-quarters of that is wasted," Lovins said.

Lovins emphasizes alternative energy sources like wind, solar, geothermal and small hydro power, while optimizing energy efficient construction, which uses a fraction of the energy for heating and cooling.

Lovins also believes that a comprehensive global energy strategy, based on efficiency technology, could eliminate the need for nuclear power, which, in turn, would reduce opportunities and incentives for nuclear proliferation that threaten world peace.

Lovins is a MacArthur Fellowship recipient (1993), and author and co-author of dozens of books on energy efficiency, renewable energy, resources, climate, security, business, and other topics.

Lovins has an unparalleled record of planning for the efficient use of diverse and renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, biofuels, and geothermal. He has led the redesign of over $30 billion worth of facilities in 29 sectors for energy and resource efficiency. He has briefed 20 heads of state, advised the U.S. Departments of Energy and Defense, and consulted for scores of industries and governments worldwide.

According to www.RMI.org, Lovins' organization, the Rocky Mountain Institute, is a world-renowned organization whose mission is to drive the efficient and restorative use of resources. RMI's style is nonadversarial and transideological, emphasizing integrative design, advanced technologies, and mindful markets.

For more information contact Christopher M. Williams, director of public relations, at cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476.

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PLYMOUTH, N.H.- For the sixth consecutive year, Plymouth State University will host Pakistani educators as part of the Pakistani Educational Leadership Institute (PELI) from July 4 to August 2, 2009.

Twenty educational leaders, recognized for their leadership capabilities, will attend this year's Pakistani Educational Leadership Institute. The educators represent secondary level public and public/private sectors and teacher training institutions.

Refferred to as the "Plymouth Model" by Ambassador Nicholas Burns and other officials at the United States Department of State, PELI exposes Pakistani educators to American innovations in education for adaptation in Pakistan. The four-week Institute creates an atmosphere where Pakistani educators can come and immerse themselves in an inspiring and creative learning environment and work to enhance leadership capabilities to affect positive change in the educational environments and systems in their communities.

PELI matches the resources of its College of Graduate Studies and taps its expertise to teach innovations and best practices in science education, interdisciplinary initiatives, and educational leadership that can be adapted for maximum efficacy to Pakistan's secondary school sector and in-country realities.

This unique collaboration crosses boundaries and connects learning communities in New Hampshire and Pakistan. The program also engages the communities of the Lakes and White Mountains regions of New Hampshire in educational and cultural exchanges with the Pakistani delegates.

This year PELI alumni are playing a critical role in the development and implementation of the "Education in Emergency" model for use in humanitarian efforts to educate Pakistani children in refugee camps.

This year PELI alumni are playing a critical role in the development and implementation of the "Education in Emergency" model for use in humanitarian efforts to educate Pakistani children in refugee camps.

Funded since 2003 from the United States Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, Plymouth State University has trained 100 educators in five summer institutes from all over Pakistan.

According to statistics compiled by Lahore-based Pakistani partner Idara-e-Taleem-o-Aagahi, alumni of the program acting as master trainers in Pakistan have trained more than 100,000 educators. The Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs works closely with PSU and the Pakistani partner organization, Idara-e-Taleem-o-Aagahi, to ensure that the program curriculum reflects U.S.-Pakistan education cooperation goals.

Additional Resources and Information

• Official PELI Web site
• Read this year's participants' stories on the PELI blog
• Learn more about PSU's partner in Pakistan Idara-e-Taleem-o-Aagahi

For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations Christopher Williams, (603) 535-2476.

PSU dedicated the Veterans Common on Saturday, June 27.

PLYMOUTH, N.H.-A Veterans Common honoring the service and sacrifice military veterans have made for our nation was dedicated Saturday, June 27 at Plymouth State University.

About 100 people-most of whom were military veterans-attended the dedication ceremony as part of PSU's Alumni Weekend.

"It's wonderful to dedicate the Veterans Common to honor those Plymouth State veterans who have served and are serving our country," PSU President Sara Jayne Steen said. "Our veteran alumni and those who are current students exemplify our school motto Ut Prosim That I may serve,' and play an important role in defining this university."

From left to right Plymouth State alumni and Vietnam veterans Phillip Meader '79, Rick Fournier '77, and Lindsey Hartshorn 75 attended the dedication ceremony of the Veterans Common at Plymouth State University Saturday, June 27.

Sponsored by Phi Beta Upsilon-a fraternity which was started by veterans for veterans at Plymouth State in the early 1970s-the Veterans Common project began two years ago. It was born from an idea suggested by Franklin Powers '59, a retired colonel of the US Air Force, to hold a reunion for alumni who served in the military. As the reunion plans developed, the PSU Office of Alumni Relations worked to establish a place on campus to honor military alumni.

"This is a small token of our never-ending gratitude for your service," Stephen King, president of the Phi Beta Upsilon Alumni Organization told the veterans. "The Common serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices you have made."

When Vietnam-era veterans returned home from active duty they often found the reception they received to be less than warm. Recognizing this, four veterans attending Plymouth State formed Phi Beta Upsilon to create an encouraging and supportive environment for other veterans on campus.

"The four founding members of this fraternity showed great foresight with their decision to create a safe place on campus for students who were returning from the war in Vietnam," wrote U.S Senator Judd Gregg in a letter to commemorate the event. "This memorial dedication today provides validation to that original idea and a lasting tribute to all who serve in the uniform of our armed services."

The Veterans Common, located between Hyde Hall and High Street on the PSU campus, features a round brick-lined circular walk with granite monuments inscribed with the seals of military service branches.

The PSU Alumni Association is also collecting oral histories from our alumni veterans to submit to the Veterans History Project. These collections of first-hand accounts will be archived in the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress for use by researchers and to serve as an inspiration for generations to come.

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu

CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch today swore in Plymouth State University Professor Dr. Virginia Barry of Bridgewater to serve as the state's next Commissioner of Education.

The Executive Council unanimously confirmed Gov. Lynch's nomination of Dr. Barry on May 6.

"Education is the most important investment we make in the future of our state and its economy. Ginny Barry is an exceptional educational leader who has worked at every level of education - from elementary school teacher to college administrator," Gov. Lynch said in a written statement from his office. "She understands the importance of making sure we offer a high quality education to children from early childhood through college. I look forward to working closely with her as we continue to work to improve education in New Hampshire."

Barry has devoted her career to education, serving as a longtime professor and administrator at Plymouth State University. She has held numerous positions at Plymouth State including professor of advanced graduate studies, provost and vice president for academic affairs, and acting president from June 2003 to January 2004.

PSU President Sara Jayne Steen praised Barry's nomination.

"Virginia Barry will be a wonderful Commissioner. She brings to the position leadership experience across the educational levels, knowledge of the state's educational opportunities, and an energy and intelligence that will serve New Hampshire well," Steen said.

Barry has been widely recognized for her educational expertise, receiving PSU's Harold E. Hyde Award for Distinguished Educational Leadership, the College of Graduate Studies Award for Outstanding Transformational Leadership, the Distinguished Teaching Award, and the New York State Award for Support of People with Disabilities. She has excelled in teaching and scholarship that has benefited New Hampshire schools.

Barry has also provided professional development training for clinics, hospitals, and schools, and has received over $2,000,000 in grant funding from state, federal, and private foundation sources, including the Davis Foundation. She has published and presented widely on working with children with disabilities and on issues such as collaborative leadership.

Barry received her doctorate in education/human development from Florida State University in 1979. She has also done postdoctoral work at New York University, Harvard University and the College of William and Mary.

Barry is also a former elementary school teacher and principal.

About Plymouth State University
Plymouth State University is the University System of New Hampshire's regional comprehensive university that combines a heritage of teaching excellence with innovation in engaged research and community outreach. Approximately 4,300 undergraduate and 2,700 graduate students currently are enrolled at PSU, which has state-of-the-art academic and residential facilities; a classic New England village campus; four-season recreation; and historic landscapes that inspire all who study, work, and live here.

The University has taken a leadership role among the nation's most environmentally friendly institutions of higher education. In 2006 Plymouth State opened the Langdon Woods Residential Complex, the first USNH building-and one of the first and largest university residence halls in the country-to receive the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. Langdon Woods is just one example of the University's commitment to the environment, which also encompasses a campus-wide recycling program; new courses and majors aimed at preparing graduates for careers in environmental science, stewardship, and policy; and EcoHouse, a new learning laboratory that shows students how even small-scale environmental design features can have important environmental implications.

For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations Christopher Williams at cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476.

The online MBA with a certificate in International Business offers students worldwide the opportunity to participate in a rich, multi-cultural online learning community at a fraction of the cost of many graduate-level study abroad programs. The degree program provides a substantial foundation for a career in a local or multi-national enterprise. It is slated to begin this fall with a class of 20 American and international students.

"This program allows students located anywhere in the world the opportunity to gain a truly global perspective in their studies," said Dr. Trent Boggess, chair of the PSU business department. "The program draws upon the real-world experience of PSU's and UBB's professors to provide a solid foundation in international issues."

Designed for aspiring professionals in management or staff positions in businesses and public institutions, successful graduates will be well prepared to assume senior-level management positions in organizations engaged in international business. This includes positions in finance, sales, marketing, operations management, supply chain management, human resources, and product management.Taught entirely in English, the degree is one of the few Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)-accredited MBA programs that reach across borders without the complications and expense of international travel.

Professors from both PSU and UBB will deliver courses throughout the two-year program, including global economics, international business, managing organizational behavior and marketing techniques.

The diverse backgrounds and experiences of both professors and students will foster productive and lasting international learning exchanges.

Visit http://mba.plymouth.edu/intlbusiness for additional information about the degree program.

About Plymouth State University (www.plymouth.edu)
Plymouth State University is the University System of New Hampshire's (USNH) regional comprehensive university that combines a heritage of teaching excellence with innovation in engaged research and community outreach. Approximately 4,300 undergraduate and 2,700 graduate students currently are enrolled at PSU, which has state-of-the-art academic and residential facilities; a classic New England village campus; four-season recreation; and historic landscapes that inspire all who study, work and live here.

About Babes-Bolyai University (www.ubbcluj.ro/en/)
UBB is one of the largest, most reputable and dynamic higher education institutions in Romania, with more than 45,000 students and 1,700 faculty members. UBB is an academic public institution aiming to promote and sustain the development of specific cultural components within the local, regional, national and international community.

For more information contact Christopher M. Williams, PSU Director of Public Relations at: cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476.

PSU's new Ice Arena is scheduled to open in Fall 2010

PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Construction began this week on a new ice arena, Plymouth State University officials announced today. The Ice Arena will cost $16.4 million and is scheduled to be completed by late summer 2010.

The Ice Arena will seat 850 spectators and serve as a teaching facility for instruction and research in ice activities, a home for Panther varsity men's and women's ice hockey teams, and a site for student recreation. The Ice Arena will also be a venue for community skating including high school athletics, adult and youth hockey leagues, figure skating, and recreational skating.

The Ice Arena will feature a Welcome Center lobby and facilities that will provide an attractive meeting place for prospective students, parents, and visitors to the campus as well as the towns of Plymouth and Holderness and the wider region.

"The Ice Arena will be more than just an athletic facility on our campus," said PSU President Sara Jayne Steen. "It will allow the University to broaden its physical resources to improve our student experience, provide a competitive advantage for student recruitment, allow more community access to our facilities, and enhance the quality of life in the region."

What does this mean for PSU?
The Ice Arena is the first of a five-phase plan to construct PSU's new ALLWell Center complex (Active Living, Learning, and Wellness).

Future phases of the ALLWell Center will house classrooms, research laboratories, lecture halls, offices, multipurpose activity laboratories, conference rooms, and general support areas for academic and athletic programs. A new field house will provide additional instructional space. An aquatic center will enhance capacity for instruction, community programming, and serve as a qualified competition venue. The Foley Gymnasium will be relocated to a new building that will house instructional and laboratory facilities, an athletic training suite, and strength and conditioning centers for students and the community.

The entire project is designed so that on-going activities are not interrupted as new facilities come on line and old facilities are removed.

"The Health and Human Performance department is the University's third largest program," said Provost Julie Bernier. "The ALLWell Center will provide a state-of-the-art academic facility for our students allowing them to learn and excel beyond what is currently possible."

The Health and Human Performance department also has established recently a Center for Active Living and Healthy Communities, an institute for research and outreach on health and wellness in rural areas that will eventually be housed in the ALLWell Center.

The Ice Arena serves as a community facility
The Ice Arena will serve as a "welcome center" for the Lake Region and North Country and a key distribution point for material and information about local communities and the region.

The Ice Arena responds to the market demand for increasing numbers of adult and youth hockey activities in the Northeast; hockey is one of the fastest growing sports in New England.

"Community support is vital to its success, in terms of public access, support of the arena, and partnerships with local groups," said PSU Executive Director of University Relations Steve Barba.

Why is PSU moving forward with building the Ice Arena given the current economic climate?
The Ice Arena is the first in a five-phase project. Preparation for the construction of the Ice Arena included an independent feasibility study completed in 2007 that indicated a strong business case for the reconstruction of the current Physical Education Center into a state-of-the-art complex that will eventually integrate the department of Health and Human Performance (HHP) with athletics, recreation, and community programs.

Funds to underwrite the construction of the Ice Arena have been generated by New Hampshire Health and Education Facilities Authority (HEFA) bonds. The Ice Arena operating costs will be supported by funds generated through private donations, corporate sponsorships, operations of the rink, and student fees. The State of New Hampshire is providing support through a Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) grant. The PSU Student Senate demonstrated its support for the new Ice Arena by unanimously approving an annual student fee to begin in 2010.

"This is an excellent addition to the campus," said PSU Vice President for Finance and Administration Steve Taksar. "It will be managed as an auxiliary operation, which means it must be self-sustaining."

Economic impact of the Ice Arena
According to an independent economic impact study, it is estimated that the Ice Arena construction project will create 25.8 additional employment positions earning $1,031,000. Construction is scheduled to take 15 months and during that time, there will be $2,245,000 in additional business sales in the region.

Wright-Ryan Construction, Inc. from Portland, ME is the primary contractor for the Ice Arena project. Approximately 60 percent of the construction contractors are New Hampshire-based companies.

It is estimated that once open, the Ice Arena will create 17.3 new jobs in the region with $508,000 in new salaries. Operations of the Ice Arena will also generate $2,333,000 annually. Significant increases in day and overnight visitor traffic are anticipated.

PSU's commitment to sustainability
The Ice Arena will be built to meet LEED Silver standards by installing sophisticated geothermal heating/cooling design to maximize energy conservation opportunities.

"In order to maximize the sustainability of this facility PSU is installing the large geothermal field and using other energy-saving devices that will reduce energy consumption by at least 28 percent over a traditional arena," said PSU's Director of Environmental Sustainability Bill Crangle.

The combination of geothermal and the capture of waste heat generated by ice making equipment will provide the heat for the facility thereby removing reliance on traditional fuel-based heating system.

Because of the energy-efficient design, this facility will require less energy consumption than PSU's traditional academic and residential buildings of the same size.

The University is also developing plans to make available to area science classes the opportunity to learn first-hand about the various "green" technologies being implemented in the Ice Arena.

For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations at: cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476.

About Plymouth State University
Plymouth State University is the University System of New Hampshire's regional comprehensive university that combines a heritage of teaching excellence with innovation in engaged research and community outreach. Approximately 4,000 undergraduate and 3,000 graduate students currently are enrolled at PSU, which has state-of-the-art academic and residential facilities; a classic New England village campus; four-season recreation; and historic landscapes that inspire all who study, work, and live here. PSU has a special focus on the North Country and Lakes Region.

PLYMOUTH, N.H.-U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen met with a round table of small business representatives from New Hampshire's North Country at PSU April 16

Click on the embedded video to view the story from New England Cable News story about the meeting and a small business impacted by the SBI.

Shaheen wants to help foster economic growth in the region with the help of Plymouth State's Small Business Institute staff and the area's economic development professionals.

"I appreciate Senator Shaheen's effort to learn how PSU is actively engaged in supporting small business and economic development in New Hampshire," Plymouth State University President Sara Jayne Steen.

Attending the meeting were PSU President Sara Jayne Steen, University Provost and VP for Academic Affairs Julie Bernier,Steve Barba, University Relations Executive Director, Thad Guldbrandsen, Center for Rural Partnerships, SBI Director Craig Zamzow, John Freeman, Executive Director of the North Country Investment Corp.,James Dean, ZanAqua Technologies, Doug Schumacher, Schumacher Industries,Don Jones, SBI student and Amanda Leese, Sen. Shaheen's staff member.

For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations at: cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476.

"Virginia Barry will be a wonderful Commissioner. She brings to the position leadership experience across the educational levels, knowledge of the state's educational opportunities, and an energy and intelligence that will serve New Hampshire well," Steen said.

Currently, Barry is a professor in PSU's College of Graduate Studies. She previously served as the University's Acting President, and was the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Barry has also served as the chair and coordinator of teacher education programs at PSU.

Barry has been widely recognized for her educational expertise, receiving PSU's Harold E. Hyde Award for Distinguished Educational Leadership, the College of Graduate Studies Award for Outstanding Transformational Leadership, the Distinguished Teaching Award, and the New York State Award for Support of People with Disabilities. She has excelled in teaching and scholarship that has benefited New Hampshire schools.

She earned a doctorate in human development and early childhood education from Florida State University, a master's in child development from Queens College and a bachelor's in early childhood education from Florida State. Barry has also completed postdoctoral work at Harvard University, the College of William and Mary and New York University.

New Hampshire's Executive Council will hold a public hearing on Barry's nomination and has scheduled a vote on her appointment May 6.

About Plymouth State University

Plymouth State University is the University System of New Hampshire's regional comprehensive university that combines a heritage of teaching excellence with innovation in engaged research and community outreach. Approximately 4,300 undergraduate and 2,700 graduate students currently are enrolled at PSU, which has state-of-the-art academic and residential facilities; a classic New England village campus; four-season recreation; and historic landscapes that inspire all who study, work, and live here.

The University has taken a leadership role among the nation's most environmentally friendly institutions of higher education. In 2006 Plymouth State opened the Langdon Woods Residential Complex, the first USNH building-and one of the first and largest university residence halls in the country-to receive the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. Langdon Woods is just one example of the University's commitment to the environment, which also encompasses a campus-wide recycling program; new courses and majors aimed at preparing graduates for careers in environmental science, stewardship, and policy; and EcoHouse, a new learning laboratory that shows students how even small-scale environmental design features can have important environmental implications.

For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations Christopher Williams, (603) 535-2476.

PSU names Sylvia Bryant executive director of University Advancement

PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Dr. Sylvia Bryant, an accomplished fundraiser with an exceptional record of success in higher education has been named Plymouth State University's first executive director of University Advancement. Bryant, of Alfred Station, N.Y. is currently the associate vice president for Individual Giving at Alfred University in Alfred, N.Y.

As the executive director of University Advancement Bryant will oversee a division encompassing development, advancement services, and alumni relations.

During her 10-year career at Alfred University Bryant directed a $150 million comprehensive campaign that raised $5 million over goal; was a member of the executive team that solicited and secured a $10 million gift to endow the Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering; and secured over $7 million from New York State legislative initiatives and agency programs. She has been instrumental in developing international educational partnerships.

PSU President Sara Jayne Steen said Bryant's experience and expertise would enhance the University's fundraising efforts.

"Sylvia Bryant has an extraordinary record of success in all aspects of advancement. She is a leader who will work collaboratively with the entire University community to grow our advancement program," said Steen.

Bryant also has significant major gifts experience and has managed corporate and foundation fundraising.

"I'm very pleased to be joining Plymouth State University and to becoming part of the community. There is great potential for developing institutional resources, and I look forward to working with the campus, the Plymouth community, and friends and alumni to further the University's mission."

Before her appointment as Alfred University's associate vice president for Individual Giving, Bryant served as the interim vice president for University Relations, the executive director of Development & Capital Campaigns, and director of Corporate & Foundation Relations.

Bryant also is active in her community. She chairs the board of the St. James Mercy Health System, in Hornell, N.Y., and has served as executive director of the Allegany County United Way, and as President of the board of the Alfred Montessori School.

Originally from Missouri, Bryant earned her bachelor's degree in English from the University of Missouri-Rolla, her master's degree in English from the University of Kansas, and her doctorate in English from the University of Washington.

Bryant begins her duties in June.

About Plymouth State University

Plymouth State University is the University System of New Hampshire's regional comprehensive university that combines a heritage of teaching excellence with innovation in engaged research and community outreach. Approximately 4,300 undergraduate and 2,700 graduate students currently are enrolled at PSU, which has state-of-the-art academic and residential facilities; a classic New England village campus; four-season recreation; and historic landscapes that inspire all who study, work, and live here.

The University has taken a leadership role among the nation's most environmentally friendly institutions of higher education. In 2006 Plymouth State opened the Langdon Woods Residential Complex, the first building in New Hampshire-and one of the first and largest university residence halls in the country-to receive the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. Langdon Woods is just one example of the University's commitment to the environment, which also encompasses a campus-wide recycling program; new courses and majors aimed at preparing graduates for careers in environmental science, stewardship, and policy; and EcoHouse, a new learning laboratory that shows students how even small-scale environmental design features can have important environmental implications.

For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations Christopher Williams, (603) 535-2476.

PSU student Stephanie Caron washes windows at the Pemi Youth Center in Plymouth as part of her community service volunteer efforts.

PLYMOUTH, N.H. -- The Corporation for National and Community Service honored Plymouth State University with a place on the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll "With Distinction" for exemplary service efforts and service to America's communities. PSU is one of only 83 schools nationwide to achieve this level of recognition in 2008.

"Every year hundreds of Plymouth State University students commit thousands of volunteer hours for community service," said PSU Provost Julie Bernier. "Not to be recognized for these efforts, but because giving back to the community is something they care about. It's part of the Plymouth State culture. We are proud to be one of only 83 schools in the country selected to the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll With Distinction and to have our students recognized for their outstanding work."

Launched in 2006, the Community Service Honor Roll is the highest federal recognition a school can achieve for its commitment to service-learning and civic engagement. Honorees for the award were chosen based on a series of selection factors including scope and innovation of service projects, percentage of student participation in service activities, incentives for service, and the extent to which the school offers academic service-learning courses.

The "With Distinction" honors were for PSU's commitment to helping youth from disadvantaged circumstances through the service program College for Every Student which is designed to lower school dropout rates and prepare students for college.

Beginning in the summer 2007, PSU collaborated with Newfound Regional High School (NRHS) in this endeavor. The essence of the College for Every Student Program is the engagement of each student in three high-impact practices that enable them to take steps toward college. Research confirms that student engagement in CFES correlates with higher aspirations and improved academic performance. Over the last two years, for example, 96 percent of CFES high school seniors have gone on to college.

The Corporation for National and Community Service also recognized PSU for the following service programs and efforts:

PSU's Alternative Spring Break--an increasingly popular service program at PSU with students who are looking for a new way to contribute their time to communities. Two separate groups of students participated in Habitat for Humanity trips over Spring Break last year. One was coordinated under the traditional Alternative Spring Break title, while the second was spearheaded by the PSU Social Work Club. The ASB trip went to Slidell, La., while the Social Work Club worked with the Corpus Christi, Tx. chapter.

A third group of students took an ASB trip to Chicago and worked with the Union League Boys and Girls Club.

"The student leader felt passionate about working with an under-served youth population in Chicago and felt the experience would be great for her fellow students," said Linda Corriveau PSU Community Service Coordinator. "The urban setting was a great experience for our students, especially since PSU is based in a rural setting."

The Angel Tree Project--an annual holiday tradition at Plymouth State. Student Coordinators work with area agencies to gather names of area youth, whom without the Angel Tree Project, may not receive a holiday gift.

PSU's Community Service Center--coordinates the University's part-time AmeriCorp program. Through the end of June 2008, the students had each completed 1/2 to 2/3 of their 300-hour commitments. The students are able to create their own path of service and focus on areas of interest to them.

PSU Volunteers--a community service and volunteer based student run organization. Students are regular contributors at sites such as Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Pemi Youth Center, the New Hampshire Humane Society, and the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in Wells, Maine.

PSU Volunteers also participate in one-time service activities such as Habitat for Humanity build days, the Cancer Walk, the March of Dimes Walk, trail clean-ups, the Polar Express, and Global Youth Service Day.

PSU Volunteers is well known in the community and is one of the first calls made when the community is looking for young & energetic volunteers.

"In this time of economic distress, we need volunteers more than ever. College students represent an enormous pool of idealism and energy to help tackle some of our toughest challenges," said Stephen Goldsmith, vice chair of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service, which oversees the Honor Roll. "We salute PSU for making community service a campus priority, and thank the millions of college students who are helping to renew America through service to others."

Overall, the Corporation honored six New Hampshire schools with Presidential Awards. In addition, 83 were named as Honor Roll With Distinction members and 546 schools as Honor Roll members. In total, 635 schools were recognized. A full list is available at www.nationalservice.gov/honorroll.

The Honor Roll is a program of the Corporation, in collaboration with the Department of Education, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. The President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll is presented during the annual conference of the American Council on Education.

"I offer heartfelt congratulations to those institutions named to the 2008 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll. College and university students across the country are making a difference in the lives of others every day - as are the institutions that encourage their students to serve others," said American Council on Education President Molly Corbett Broad.

Recent studies have underlined the importance of service-learning and volunteering to college students. In 2006, 2.8 million college students gave more than 297 million hours of volunteer service, according to the Corporation's Volunteering in America 2007 study. Expanding campus incentives for service is part of a larger initiative to spur higher levels of volunteering by America's college students. The Corporation is working with a coalition of federal agencies, higher education and student associations, and nonprofit organizations to achieve this goal.

The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal agency that improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. The Corporation administers Senior Corps, AmeriCorps and Learn and Serve America, a program that supports service-learning in schools, institutions of higher education and community-based organizations. For more information, go to www.nationalservice.gov.

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu ]]> 2/28/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6567

Are you an international student looking to excel in the field of School Counseling or School Psychology?

Aspiring school counselors and school psychologists from around the world are invited to apply for admission to Plymouth State University's unique Master of Education in Counselor Education international cohort program.

Through a blend of both intensive summer study on the Plymouth State campus and online coursework during the remainder of each year, internationally-based students can complete the requirements necessary to become professional school counselors and psychologists.

Located in scenic Plymouth, New Hampshire, Plymouth State University is a regional comprehensive university offering a rich, student-focused learning environment. For information about this exciting educational opportunity, contact Dr. Gary Goodnough at (800) FOR-GRAD or ggoodno@plymouth.edu.

PLYMOUTH, N.H -Newfound Lake remains one of New Hampshire's cleanest and clearest lakes, and a management plan to keep it that way is making progress.

Every Acre Counts: The Newfound Watershed Master Plan is an exciting, cutting edge project working with diverse stakeholders in developing a master plan for the Newfound Lake watershed.

The effort brings together participants from diverse sectors including the PSU's Center for the Environment, the Newfound Lake Region Association (NLRA), the University of New Hampshire, Jeffery Taylor and Associates and underwritten by the Environmental Protection Agency with funds distributed by the N.H. Department of Environmental Services.

The first step in the project was a community survey, led by Dr. Brian Eisenhauer, associate director of the Center for the Environment and assistant professor of sociology at Plymouth State. Area residents in Bristol, Bridgewater, Hebron, Alexandria, Groton, Orange, Danbury, and Plymouth responded to surveys about their perception of Newfound Lake and its future.

"These kinds of activities with towns in our region embody the PSU to serve' mission, not only for the benefit of the region, but for the students to apply their academic knowledge in answering important questions for our region," said Eisenhauer.

The information from the survey will help formulate the watershed plan and determine key issues for the region. Steve Whitman, senior planner with Jeffrey H. Taylor and Associates and adjunct PSU faculty member, said the community input is one of the most critical pieces of creating a collaborative plan.

"There was need to understand whether people felt a connection to Newfound Lake and to the watershed, and whether they would help support rules and regulations that would help guide everyone more appropriately," said Whitman.

The Newfound Lake watershed area encompasses 63,000 acres, with approximately 15,000 year-round residents, an increase of 132% over the past 35 years.

Boyd Smith, director of the Newfound Lake Region Association, said now is the time to start protecting the lake and it watershed.

"If you were here 10 years ago and fast forward to today, you'd see a difference, especially on the hillsides," Smith said about the development around the lake. "More development around the lake will come in time, and if we're not proactive in managing the natural resources of the land, forest and water, and providing for the folks that live here, this place will change in a way that most people don't want to see, I think."

When completed in 2009, Every Acre Counts: the Newfound Watershed Master Plan will provide a comprehensive analysis of the Newfound Lake Region environment; will present citizen opinions about issues in the watershed and their desires for the future, will benchmark local master plans, policies and regulations; and will provide a "tool kit" of methods to maintain and improve environmental quality for the long term.

The $350,000 project is supported by federal Clean Water Act funds distributed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services that includes substantial matching contributions from project partners.

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu ]]> 8/8/08 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6381

PLYMOUTH, N.H.-"At 64-years-old, this is an absolutely thrilling opportunity," is how PSU Professor of Business Duncan McDougall describes his Fulbright Scholarship, which will take him to the classrooms and boardrooms of the eastern European country of Romania this fall.

"It will be a cultural awakening for me," said McDougall, who will teach three courses at Babes-Bolyai University, located in Cluj-Napoca, about 50 miles from the Hungarian border. In addition, McDougall will help strengthen their international business program and advise them on building an MBA degree.

"I feel qualified to do that, since I have been teaching in MBA programs since 1976, and since I serve on the accrediting board for graduate programs at the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs," McDougall said. "I hope to help our colleagues at Babes-Bolyai plan a creditable program."

McDougall applied for the prestigious and highly-competitive Fulbright Scholarship last year and learned of his acceptance in March. McDougall was chosen, in part, because of his academic rank and position, reputation as a scholar, teaching ability, awards and professional accomplishments.

The Fulbright Scholar Program sends 800 scholars and professionals each year to over 140 countries, where they lecture or conduct research in a wide variety of academic and professional fields. Fulbright grants are made to U.S. citizens and nationals of other countries for a variety of educational activities, primarily university lecturing, advanced research, graduate study and teaching.

"It will be a refreshing, stimulating experience, it will provide me a more globalized point of view," said McDougall, who will also act as a liaison between U.S. and Romanian businesses who want to develop relationships.

"There is a growing auto manufacturing business there and I used to work for General Motors," McDougall said. "I will also act as a representative of this University and the business community, so I will be giving talks on American business and our economy."

Dr. Julie Bernier, PSU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, said McDougall's Fulbright mission will serve PSU well.

"This is a wonderful occasion for Dr. McDougall to share his expertise and to bring back a wealth of experience and knowledge to our students," Bernier said. "It is also a great opportunity for Plymouth State University and Babes-Bolyai University to further develop our partnership."

PSU business professor Daniel Moore said McDougall's Fulbright experience will improve the University's business education efforts.

"PSU will gain from Duncan's exposure to, and his ability to bring back to the classroom, a more detailed understanding of global business practices and experiences, especially in one of the more dynamic areas of the world; Eastern Europe," Moore said.

McDougall's experience and expertise in business education makes him an ideal candidate for the year-long program. McDougall teaches management accounting, operations management, and entrepreneurship courses in the PSU undergraduate and MBA programs and from 1994 through 1998 directed PSU's nationally recognized Small Business Institute. He served as chair of the PSU Department of Business from 1998 through 2001, and is presently chair of the Baccalaureate/Graduate Board of Commissioners of the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs, an international accrediting body. McDougall holds a bachelor's degree from Amherst College and both MBA and DBA degrees from the Harvard Business School.

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or Bruce Lyndes

PLYMOUTH, N.H. -- For the first time users of Plymouth State University's Lamson Library are able to read and search excerpts, or even full texts, of select books online.

The University today announced the implementation of the Google Book Search Book Viewability API through its Scriblio library software. This means patrons can preview the text of select books they find in the Lamson Library catalog online free of charge via Google Book Search.

"Access to information is what libraries are all about. The integration of Scriblio, our library's content management system and online catalogue, with Google Book Search promises to enhance the research experience for all our users," said David A. Berona, PSU Lamson Library and Learning Commons Director

Examples of how the Google Book Search Book Viewability API works using Scriblio can be seen in these books by PSU authors Bruce Heald and Joseph Monninger. The "Browse on Google" link in the New Features section leads to extended previews of their works.

"The ability to browse a library's collection online, to see not only what's on the shelf but to peek inside the books and flip through the pages can only help to expand horizons," said Casey Bisson, lead developer of Scriblio. "Free samples attract readers, Google Book Search integration with Scriblio and library catalogs should attract a lot of them."

Google announced the launch of the new Google Book Search Book Viewability API yesterday on the Google blog. PSU is one of the first nine universities worldwide to link to the new Google Book Search Book Viewability API feature at its launch.

* Plymouth State University, (New Hampshire)
* Kansas State University
* University of California
* University of Huddersfield. (Huddersfield, UK)
* University of Iowa
* University of Minnesota
* University of Texas
* Waterford Institute of Technology, (Waterford, Ireland)
* Universita degli Studi di Padova in Italy, (Padova, Italy)

Scriblio, an open source project developed by Casey Bisson at Plymouth State University, has been gaining additional recognition since being awarded one of the first Andrew W Mellon Foundation awards for technology collaboration in December 2006. Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has recently selected it as their next generation library catalog.

Scriblio makes it easier for libraries to post their collections online, and as open source software, it is available to other libraries to download and use for free.

For more information contact Christopher M. Williams at cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476.

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