Dress for Success 2012

Come learn how to succeed in your interview, at Indiana University Kokomo's annual Dress for Success fashion show and interview skit, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 9, in Alumni Hall.

"This is a fun way we can prepare students to succeed when looking for a first job, or trying to get an internship," said Tracy Springer, manager of career services. "You only get one chance to make a great first impression. We think this is valuable not only for those about to graduate, but for all students, to learn how to be professional."

The event includes a runway show of work and interview appropriate clothing, and an interactive "What Not to Do," skit, emphasizing what is and is not appropriate interview attire and behavior. There will also be refreshments and door prizes.

For more information, go to www.iuk.edu/career-services.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — The smells of henna, cardamom, and other spices filled Alumni Hall as Saudi students at Indiana University Kokomo shared their ethnicity to bridge cultural gaps during Saudi National Day celebration on campus.

Abdulmajed Aloqail and Dr. Kasem pose for a picture at Saudi National Day. See more pictures on Flickr.

Students, faculty, and staff sampled mint tea and Arabic coffee, received henna tattoos, tried on Saudi clothing, and saw falcons – the Middle Eastern country's national symbol. They also tasted traditional foods such as rice, lamb, unleavened bread, and spicy vegetable dishes.

"We want to build good relationships with our classmates," said Talal Al-Hammad, a student in the Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) program. "We are pleased to be part of this community. The best part of IU Kokomo is not just the high academic standards, but the faculty and students. They are very friendly and welcome us every day. They have made this a very good experience for us."

The spices, clothing, and food were somewhat familiar to Breanna Santucci, Kokomo, whose mother is part Syrian. She was excited to have her name written in Arabic, and to see a large crowd participating in the event.

"It's important to meet real people, and find we have so much in common," she said. "That helps move past stereotypes some people have about the Middle East."

As a member of the U.S. Army Reserves, Larry Lawson knows he could be stationed in the Middle East, so he welcomed the opportunity to learn more about Saudi culture. He plans to meet with several of the international students to learn some pointers about the Arabic and Farsi languages.

"Every bit of familiarity I can gain will help me fulfill my job when I am deployed," Lawson said. "It's nice to get a taste and an understanding of another culture."

Lawson, a student in the Transition to Teaching program, called the event a great opportunity, especially for those who have not had the chance to travel overseas.

"It broadens the horizons of the students who have never left the borders of Indiana, or who haven't been able to travel to other continents," he said. "It gives you a better understanding of being a world citizen."

The day honored the 83rd Saudi National Day, a holiday celebrating the nation's identify and unification by the late King Ibn Saud. It is traditionally celebrated on Sept. 23 each year.

Al-Hammad was the first of the 30 Saudi students to enroll, arriving in 2012. He's encouraged others to follow him to IU Kokomo. He said there are approximately 70,000 Saudi students studying in the United States.

"We study in the United States for its high-quality education and because of its friendly people," he said. "Since we are here in Kokomo, we wanted to show our culture, our celebrations, and our food. We are so happy for the support we have received. It really means a lot to us."

Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke thanked the Saudi Student Club for hosting the event, and was pleased to see a large crowd participating.

"It was fantastic to watch our American students and our Saudi students interacting with one another, sharing the food, and learning about their cultural activities," she said. "We're very appreciative to them for bringing their culture to our campus, to expand our horizons. I know IU Kokomo is better because they are here, and we will continue to learn from one another."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Like many college freshmen, Conner Donelson balances a full schedule of classes with a job.

Conner DonelsonHis is not your typical student job, though — his requires driving at speeds topping 100 miles per hour, battling for a checkered flag.

Donelson, 18, races sprint cars. But for now, racing has taken a back seat to his first priority – earning a bachelor's degree in business management from Indiana University Kokomo.

"I'm doing my best to be a student and to race at the same time," he said. "Before I started college, racing was all I thought about, 24/7. I didn't have much homework in high school. Now I need two or three hours a night to study. This comes first right now, and then racing will be the priority again once I graduate."

Donelson chose IU Kokomo for its School of Business and because he could stay home in Kokomo and continue racing. He's not certain what career field interests him outside of racing, but decided a business degree could give him flexibility.

"An IU business degree is well-respected, and gives me lots of options," he said. "I wanted to do something with a lot of numbers, with hands-on, group learning. I know what I like to do, and I have four years to decide what I want to do after college."

The season runs April through October, but even when he isn't racing, he is preparing to race. Each off-season, he and his crew, which includes his father and his uncle, take his car completely down to the frame and rebuild it, seeing where they can make improvements for the next season.

Racing is his family's tradition, as his father and uncle both began driving before they were 5 years old. They knew before he could even walk he would be a driver.

"When I was a baby, my dad put me in my uncle's race car, and they said I had this huge grin on my face," he said. "That's when it dawned on my mother that I was going to be a racer."

He started in quarter midgets when he was four, and later moved to junior sprints. He's driven sprint cars since his freshman year in high school, before he and his friends even had driver's licenses.

"That wasn't a rite of passage for me like most kids," Donelson said. "I've been behind the wheel and learning how to maneuver a vehicle all my life."

Along the way, he's learned important life skills, especially in communicating. Behind the wheel, he has to be able to talk to his crew and let them know what the car is doing, so he can perform at his best. He also has to talk to media after races, and has learned to speak to his audience.

"All of this experience really is helping me in my speech class," he said. "I've had to learn to all kinds of audiences, from my crew, to the media, and to people who don't know a lot about cars. I have to be able to read my audience and know how to say the right thing. I can apply that to my classes now."

Donelson hopes he may be able to continue into a career in racing, though he says he still has a lot to learn.

"My dream is to go big," he said. "If you're in this sport to do well, you want to go as far as you can. I love this, and I'm good at it. If I got the opportunity to go bigger, I would take it. There is a difference between a racecar driver and a guy who drives a racecar. I'm learning from my mistakes, but I'm not a racecar driver yet. I have talent, I have knowledge, and that will make me a race car driver one day."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo honors five students for excellence in Spanish language, as the first members of the new chapter of Sigma Delta Pi National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society.

Spanish students inducted into the prestigious Spanish Language Honor society, Sigma Delta Pi.
The honor society recently conducted its first initiation in the Kelley Student Center.

Elementary education student Breanna Santucci considers it a great honor.

"I am a strong believer that it is important for people to educate themselves about other cultures, because it makes you a better person," Santucci, from Kokomo, said. "Being a part of this society will help me build relations with people of different backgrounds, and learn more about their culture. Plus, it will make me stand out from other applicants when I pursue my career."

Improving job prospects is on recent IU Kokomo business graduate Kayla George's mind as well.

"Being chosen to be part of Sigma Delta Pi will provide me with another way of promoting myself to potential future employers," she said. "In today's society, being able to understand and speak Spanish is becoming even more important, as the number of Spanish speakers continues to grow."

George, a current Master of Business Administration student at Indiana University—Purdue University Indianapolis, thanked faculty co-sponsor J.R. Pico, senior lecturer in Spanish, for his efforts to bring the honor society to campus.

Pico is excited to qualify for an IU Kokomo chapter.

"This puts us at a superior level in our teaching of Spanish, and our students honored will have numerous benefits as members of our chapter," he said. "For one, there are scholarships available that would allow them to travel to Spanish speaking countries. Travel gives them an opportunity to put their foreign language knowledge to use in real life situations, and to learn more about the culture in person."

The five students, along with Pico and co-advisor Christine Taff, are charter members of the Omega Upsilon chapter. New initiates are Kristen Berry, Logansport; Kayla George, Peru; Tyler Keck, Breanna Santucci, and Lesly Winburn, Kokomo.

Those selected must have completed at least three years, or the equivalent, of college level Spanish, with an average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in those courses, rank in the upper 35 percent of their class, and completed at least three semesters of college work. Each one also must have genuine interest in Hispanic language and culture, and be of good moral character.

Sigma Delta Pi, the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society, is a non-profit organization, founded at the University of California Berkeley. It has nearly 600 chapters in the United States and Canada.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — The best place to see the moon for the upcoming International Observe the Moon Night is at the Indiana University Kokomo Observatory.

ObservatoryThe Observatory will be open for the event from 8 to 10 p.m., Saturday, October 12. Patrick Motl, assistant professor of physics, will present current thoughts about how the moon formed. In addition, the Observatory will host its regular monthly open house on Sunday, October 13, from 8 to 10 p.m.

"The date of this worldwide event was selected to have a good view of the line separating sunlight and shadow on the moon's face," Motl said. "This gives a great opportunity to see the three dimensional structure of craters and mountains through a telescope."

International Observe the Moon Night is organized by a team of scientists, educators, and moon enthusiasts representing government, non-profit organizations, and businesses around the world. The goal is to give people an opportunity to take notice of the moon's beauty, and to instill a sense of wonderment and curiosity about the moon. IU Kokomo's Observatory is one of hundreds worldwide registered to host events. In 2012, nearly 600 sites participated.

At Sunday's open house, Motl will open the event with a presentation on pulsars, which are rapidly rotating neutron stars.

Stargazers will be able to see the planet Venus and a waxing gibbous moon, along with highlights from the Summer Triangle, which is overhead at sunset.

The Observatory's telescopes are a six-inch Takahashi refracting telescope and a 16-inch Meade reflecting telescope mounted together. The Takahashi provides exceptionally sharp images of planets, while the Meade allows viewers to see fainter objects in the sky, due to its larger light collecting area.

The open house is free and open to the public in the Observatory, 105 E. Rebecca Lane. Free parking is available on campus.

For more information about International Observe the Moon Night, go to observethemoonnight.org.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Yusuf Nur

Nur, assistant professor of international business, travels home to Somalia during his summer and winter breaks to teach business management principles to its leaders. Recently, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud invited him to lead a session on resource sharing at a five-day conference about issues that country faces as it rebuilds from years of civil war.

Nur said in the past, this kind of conference would have been held outside of Somalia, and likely sponsored by a non-government agency, so just being able to host it was a big step forward.

"This is the first time the Somali government has had the initiative and the money to put something like this together in Mogadishu," he said. "This is something most countries take for granted, but it is a sign of progress for Somalia."

At IU Kokomo, Nur said when many of his students hear about Somalia, they think only of pirates. He educates them to read further, to see what else is happening.

"There has been huge progress since 2006," he said. "There are a lot of positive things happening."

Erv Boschmann, interim dean of the School of Business, said Nur shares his insights and research on international business, especially about Somalia, with his fellow faculty and with students.

"The students benefit enormously from his experience, especially when he talks about international business," Boschmann said. "I am amazed by his knowledge. Not only is he widely read, but he has accumulated a good dose of wisdom."

Nur left Somalia, which is in the Horn of Africa, 28 years ago, to earn a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree, using a World Bank scholarship. He then earned a Ph.D. from IU. Civil war broke out shortly after he left, and it was more than 20 years before he could safely return home.

The first trip back was shocking.

"Civil war destroyed the country," he said. "When I left, it was so peaceful. Mogadishu was a beautiful coastal town. We used to play soccer on the beach. It's horrible what happened to the country. I convinced myself I could make a difference with the knowledge I gained in the United States."

He said it is critical for people like himself, who were educated outside Somalia, to come back and help their homeland recover from the war.

"The civil war caused a huge brain drain," Nur said. "Anyone with experience and education left the country. They don't have the education to do anything. Their business leaders don't have the theoretical background we have here."

During his visits each year, Nur consults with businesses, educating executives on how to run a business strategically — which is also what he teaches at IU Kokomo. He has also consulted with the United Nations on developing policy for the country, and sometimes teaches classes at a college founded by the president.

His brother, Mohamoud Ahmed Nur, also was educated outside of Somalia, and is now mayor of Mogadishu, the capitol.

Nur said despite everything that has happened in his country since he left it, he still feels at home there.

"I lived in Somalia for 20 years, and I've lived in the United States 28 years, but when I get there, I feel at peace," he said. "Even though the country was destroyed, I feel tranquil there."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo students will be on fall break Monday, October 14, and Tuesday, October 15.

Hunt HallThere will be no classes either of those days, but all campus offices and the Library will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The bookstore will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days.

The Cole Fitness Center and the Cougar Country Café will be closed from Saturday, October 12, until Wednesday, October 16.

Classes resume at 8 a.m. Wednesday, October 16. The fitness center will open at 6 a.m., and the café will open at 7 a.m.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Ribbon Warriors are ready for the fight.

The 60-member strong, newly formed student organization, at Indiana University Kokomo wants to "educate, advocate, and eradicate" regarding all types of cancer – with this year's focus on breast cancer.

Students Ashley VanSkyock and Jaina Hattabaugh use chalk to bring awareness to breast cancer on the campus sidewalks."We want to provide education, not just do the pink fad," said Ribbon Warrior Jaina Hattabaugh, 21. "It's important for all young women to know it can happen to them. You don't get mammograms at our age, so it is crucial to know how to do self-exams, and to actually do them.

"That's how you learn what is normal for you, and when you need to have something checked by your doctor. It could save your life."

Inspired by an internship at the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Tissue Bank in Indianapolis, senior health sciences major Pam Plain founded the organization this semester. Her admiration for their faculty advisor, Jessica Henderson, also was a reason, as Henderson is a breast cancer survivor.

As an older student, Plain also is passionate about teaching her younger classmates, both men and women, about the importance of taking care of themselves.

"You have to know your body, and know your breasts," Plain, 50, said. "We have to reach out to the men, too, because they can also get breast cancer. A lot of people don't know that."

Her plan is that each year, the organization's president will chose a type of cancer or health issue, and focus on providing education about it for the entire school year, fulfilling the motto, "Educate. Advocate. Eradicate."

The Ribbon Warriors will sponsor several activities to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness month through October. They will hand out educational materials on self-breast exams at IU Kokomo's women's volleyball "Pink Out" game on Tuesday, October 22. In addition, they are encouraging the campus community to support another "Pink Out" day on October 31.

The group has two fundraisers slated for spring semester, including "Cupcakes for a Cure" on February 1 at A Summer Place near Sharpsville; and a "Truffle Shuffle Walk" on March 30 in the Cole Fitness Center.

Next April, the Ribbon Warriors will take to the streets in downtown Indianapolis to support the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure to raise money for breast cancer research.

All students are welcome to join Ribbon Warriors. The group has a Facebook page, Ribbon Warriors at Indiana University Kokomo, with more information.

"We need to learn how to be advocates, to be a voice for those who don't have a voice," Plain said. "I want the young people at IU Kokomo to know what it means to be an advocate, and what it means to help others."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

A series of speakers and events are taking place this month at Indiana University Kokomo in honor of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) History Month.

Brooks, an openly gay senior, believes that students should learn to accept people who are different than them.

"A person should never have to be afraid to be themselves," Brooks said. "They shouldn't be fearful of how others might treat them, or be forced to feel like they have to tiptoe around, limit their lives and experiences, because of other people's reactions."

Student organizations like the Student Union Board (SUB) and Cougar Advocates for Diversity (CAD) are hosting events to bring awareness and celebration of LGBT History Month.

"I think it is extremely important to promote diversity on campus, not just for LGBT purposes, but also of all religions, ethnicities, faiths, and backgrounds," said Brooks.

Allison Percival, alumna, said although she had a positive experience as a gay student, it is important to educate others about all kinds of people.

"It is always positive to expose more people to a better understanding of gay students," she said.

Gay and lesbian celebrities are featured on signs and flyers around campus highlighting upcoming LGBT events, including poet and lecturer Katie Wirsing, October 17, at 2:30 p.m., and comedian Chris Doucette, October 23, at 12 p.m. Both events will take place in the Kelley Student Center, Room 130, and are free and open to the public. In addition, CAD hosted a speaker from the Indiana Youth Group, who answered questions related to the LGBT community and shared tips on how to be an ally.

For more information about campus events, visit the homepage of the IU Kokomo website at iuk.edu.

Story written by Sofia Stout. Sofia is an intern for the Office of Media and Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — The Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery showcases the work of top national glass artists in its new exhibit and expects to attract collectors from all over the Midwest.

The juried show, "Gathering: Contemporary Glass from the Heartland", includes 28 pieces ranging from sculptural to narrative works, created in a variety of methods. The 21 artists represent the states of Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

The annual show, hosted by the Indiana Glass Art Alliance (IGAA), opens with a reception from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, October 19, in the Art Gallery, in Upper Alumni Hall.

"Kokomo is where Hoosier glassmaking began, so it is appropriate for us to host this prestigious show," said Susan Skoczen, gallery director.

This exhibit is one of several stops during the Indiana Glass Trail's "Art on Fire: Hot Glass and Class" weekend, which also includes tours of Kokomo Opalescent Glass, exhibits at the Seiberling Mansion and the Greentown Glass Museum, glasswork classes in Lafayette, and an open studio in Logansport.

Skoczen expects glass collectors from around the Midwest to attend the events, and is pleased to bring such a significant show to campus.

"This gives our students and our community a unique opportunity to see work being created on the national level," she said.

She noted that this is the first year the IGAA has opened the show to artists outside of Indiana. The jury reviewed nearly 150 pieces, from 48 glass artists, to choose the work to exhibit.

The show continues through Saturday, December 7. Admission and parking are free. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, and noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays.

For more information, call the IU Kokomo Art Gallery at 765-455-9523.

The Indiana Glass Trail is a showcase for talented Hoosier glass artisans. The trail connects nearly 20 counties, in which the tradition and history of glass arts can be experienced first-hand.

For more information about "Art on Fire: Hot Glass and Class" events, go to http://indianaglasstrail.com/news/.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Fraternity Colonization of Phi Kappa Tau

Seventeen young men joined the colony, which will now go through approximately 12 months of activities to establish the colony as a chapter.

Kory George, Peru, said they are proud to be an official part of the national organization, after months of working towards that goal.

"We're brothers to each other," he said. "We all feel an increased sense of community. It's exciting knowing we're part of something bigger than we are."

Colony advisor Michael Tulley said they were excited to finally be able to wear their Greek letters on campus, and to start recruiting additional members.

"The addition of a men's fraternity to the campus enhances student life, and also provides another significant collegiate experience for our undergraduates," he said.

The colony plans to organize recruitment activities in conjunction with Phi Sigma Sigma, IU Kokomo's sorority.

Representatives of Phi Kappa Tau national headquarters, Oxford, Ohio, recently led leadership and organization building workshops on campus. The men learned about fraternity history, how to recruit, and worked on a specific month-by-month timeline to establish the tasks to qualify to become a fully chartered chapter.

Colony members include Cody Phelps, president, Anchorage, Alaska; Sam Williamson, vice president, Logansport; Kory George, treasurer, Peru; Javier Vasquez, alumni chairman, Frankfort; Justin Clark, communication and media chairman, Peru; Shaun Fewell, community service chairman, Kokomo; Augustus Cooley, chaplain, Peru; Deray Boyd, social chairman, Marion; Mac Decker, membership and recruitment chairman, Frankfort; Zachary Garpow, risk management chairman, Winamac; Nick Daanen, scholarship chairman, Kokomo; Jeremy Gilman, Kokomo; Ron Tamir, Coppell, Texas; Devin Huffer, Kokomo; Jose Cervantez, Frankfort; Rick Rhine, Kokomo; and Brian Arwood, Peru.

The colony's home on campus is Main Building Room 101, by Havens Auditorium.

For more information about membership, contact Decker at mcdecker@iuk.edu

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. – The Student Union Board (S.U.B.) would like to invite children, ages 10 and under, from the surrounding area to come and enjoy the Halloween Open House at Indiana University Kokomo this Friday in the Kelley Student Center and Alumni Hall.

Halloween Open HouseEach organization volunteering in the event will set up tables where children can participate in activities and trick-or-treating. Trick-or-treating will be from 6 to 8 p.m. There will also be a children's movie shown in Kresge Auditorium, with one at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Carly Wimmer, a sophomore secondary education major, attended Halloween Open House as a child and is looking forward to being able to help out.

"It's fun being on the other side of the table and being able see the joy on the faces of the kids getting candy in a safe environment," Wimmer said. "I'm excited because I get to give kids some the same great memories of the Halloween Open House that I have.

"Here at IU Kokomo, we make sure this is a safe, family-oriented event that kids and parents can enjoy together," Wimmer added.

Taylor Boike, the student director of the Halloween Open House, said she enjoys this event.

"This event is a way for IU Kokomo to give back to the community while showing all what our campus has to offer. It is a great way for to bring Kokomo together with a fun tradition," said Boike.

Cost of entry is $1 per child. An adult must accompany each child.

S.U.B. will also be accepting prepackaged candy donations. Donations can be brought the Student Activities during regular school hours till Friday.

Story written by Sofia Stout. Sofia is an intern for the Office of Media and Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Being a member of Indiana University Kokomo's Phi Sigma Sigma sorority empowers Jessica Hatt, pushing her to achieve far more than she ever expected when she joined.

Phi Sigma Sigma"Phi Sigma Sigma's goal is to empower women, and build them into leaders," she said. "I've had opportunities to attend leadership events in Washington, D.C., and in New York City, which have enhanced my college experience immensely."

Phi Sigma Sigma's Iota Epsilon chapter celebrates its 10th anniversary at IU Kokomo in 2013. In November, its national organization, which has 108 chapters in the United States and Canada, will commemorate 100 years since its founding.

Sarah Sarber, dean of students, called the anniversary "a significant milestone in student life," because it created a more collegiate feel to the campus.

"The women who are part of this organization should be very proud of what they have accomplished," she said. "They have made substantial contributions to philanthropies and community service, and have been active participants in campus life."

As a charter member of the IU Kokomo chapter, Reeta Piirala-Skoglund is excited to see the chapter reach this milestone. She has fond memories of the work that went into founding the chapter, and the excitement of being part of the campus' first Greek organization.

"We had to figure out a lot of things, with support from our national organization," she said. "It was exciting to be part of creating new traditions, and starting something new."

In addition to being part of something new, Piirala-Skoglund found a support system as part of the sorority. A native of Finland, she had neither family nor friends in Kokomo.

"That group of women and advisors became a substitute family for me," she said. "Being part of the founding class gave me an experience where I could get to know people and create friendships."

Those were the kinds of connections Hatt, the chapter's current archon, or president, sought as a member. She joined shortly after her mother had passed away, and she had moved from Michigan.

"I have so many amazing friends I would not have met if I was not in the sorority," she said. "These are friendships that will last a lifetime. Once you are a sister, you are always a sister."

The sorority's service projects have included raising funds for the Family Service Association of Howard County's domestic violence shelter, through the annual Take Back the Night Angel Walk, and collecting canned food for the Enactus canned food drive each year.

The service aspect led senior Laura Kasey to Phi Sigma Sigma.

"It's a good way to give back to the community," she said. "I can make more of a difference working with my sisters than I can on my own. I've built myself into a support network, and been able to help others."

Sorority membership gave alumna Barb Hall a stronger connection to IU Kokomo.. She is proud to see the chapter continue to flourish and contribute to campus life.

"It added sisterhood, friendship, and better leadership skills to my college experience," she said. "I was here when women were just starting to build interest in bringing a sorority to campus. It's amazing now to see how it has grown. Having Greek life is a huge advantage for IU Kokomo, especially with more traditional aged students enrolling."

Phi Sigma Sigma was one of the factors that drew sophomore Josselin Shafer to campus.

"I always wanted to be in a sorority, and I was so excited when I heard IU Kokomo had one," she said. "I'm getting a big college experience, without the big college. It's also a great way to get involved on campus and meet people."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

IU President Michael McRobbie (left), and IU Foundation President Dan Smith (right), present Erv and Priscilla Boschmann (center) with the Presidents Circle Award.

Their generosity to Indiana University was recently recognized with induction into its most prestigious donor recognition society, the Presidents Circle, which honors those whose lifetime giving has reached $100,000.

IU President Michael A. McRobbie and IU Foundation President Dan Smith presided over the ceremony, honoring 183 individuals.

Erv Boschmann, who is interim dean of the IU Kokomo School of Business, said he and his wife both grew up with parents who were role models for giving. Now, they try to share that lesson with those who receive the scholarships they've established.

"When talking with the recipients, it gives us a wonderful feeling that the future is in good hands, and we can continue to believe in the future of the world," he said. "Not only are they open to the idea of they themselves also giving, but we find many already do that in some form or another. We ask them to consider becoming givers themselves, whether it is in the form of volunteering or donating items, but we encourage them to eventually consider giving money, even in small amounts."

At IU Kokomo, the Boschmanns established the Selzer Student Scholarship for International Study, for students who want to study overseas. They named the scholarship for Priscilla Boschmann's parents, in keeping with their wish that their own names not be on any of their scholarships.

Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke called Boschmann "a true servant leader" for his generosity.

"He has dedicated his career to enhancing the success of faculty, staff, and students," she said. "We are so grateful to Erv and Priscilla for establishing the Selzer Student Scholarship for International Travel. In the years to come, many students will benefit from this life changing experience, because of their generosity."

They also established a scholarship for chemistry students at Indiana University — Purdue University Indianapolis, and created a faculty summer fellowship at IU East.

Erv Boschmann has had a distinguished career with IU since joining the faculty at IUPUI in 1968. He was a professor of chemistry, then associate dean of facilities. In 1998, he was named IU associate vice president for distributed education. He has also served as provost at IU East.

As Presidents Circle members, the Boschmanns received a personalized medallion cast with a portion of the original carillon bells that once rang in the IU Bloomington Student Building. Their names were also added to the honor wall in the Indiana Memorial Union.

Established in 1992, the Presidents Circle is named for Indiana University presidents, from first president Andrew Wylie to current president Michael A. McRobbie.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — When Brandon Smith graduates with a degree focusing on graphic design, he will have the necessary digital media skills to help him land the job of his dreams.

Students expand digital skillsThe School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Indiana University Kokomo introduced the Wacom Bamboo Create tablets this semester, and Smith learned to use them in a digital illustration class.

"Having this technology available to us expands what we are doing, and gives us new experiences," said Smith, a Greentown resident. "This is one more professional skill I have available when I look for a job."

Digital artists use the tablets with programs such as Photoshop and Illustrator, in place of a mouse. The tablet lays flat on the table, and artists use a stylus pen to draw, paint, mix colors, erase, and perform other functions on its screen, with their work displayed on the computer monitor.

In this particular class, students explore ways they can use it in Photoshop, coloring in a line drawing displayed by Guin Thompson, visiting assistant professor of new media.

Smith uses the stylus pen to click and drag the color palette he wants onto his workspace, where he mixes colors to create just the right shade. Then he can use the pen to color in the drawing, or click on a paintbrush tool to use it to create a brushstroke effect. If he makes a mistake, he clicks the eraser tool and then cleans it up with the pen.

"This is the best part," he said. "Your work is not as set in stone as it is with paint. You can make corrections or changes quickly and easily, and then go on with your project."

That kind of efficiency is critical to people such as graphic artists or illustrators, who usually create their work on deadline, Thompson said.

"These tablets are the industry standard," she said. "A lot of graphic artists and illustrators are using this tool. You can do more with the tablet and stylus than you can with the mouse, and it's better ergonomically, too."

She is pleased with the work her students have created since they started using the tablets.

"They are doing some advanced work very quickly," she said. "A lot of the students have used similar tools with their phones, so this is not technology that is foreign to them, and it's pretty intuitive."

Bethany Hemrick enjoys exploring Photoshop with the tablet, and likes it better than using pen and paper. As a graphic arts major, she expects to use those skills in her future employment.

"This class introduced me to some new techniques that will help me in the future," the Peru resident said.

Fine arts and new media major Theresa Stewart, Russiaville, has wanted to try a pen tablet for a long time, so she was happy for the opportunity to use it in class.

"It's so much more controlled than using a mouse," she said. "You can put a lot more detail into your work. I'm really enjoying learning all the techniques in this class, to create better work."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Kaitlynd Lear has a "Whopper" of an excuse for missing a few days of class at Indiana University Kokomo this semester.

Kaitlynd LearThe fast-fingered freshman competed for a national title, not in a sporting event, but for her skills and agility creating Burger King's signature sandwich. She and 23 of her fellow employees nationwide earned a trip to Miami, for the first-ever Whopper Challenge.

"My math professor told me it was the best excuse he's ever heard," Lear said.

She assembled a perfect Whopper in a blazing-fast 17 seconds, to finish in 19th place in Miami. Not bad, considering 200,000 Burger King employees tried out in store level competition around the country.

Lear's personal best is 14 seconds. The national winner built his sandwich in 12 seconds, and received a $10,000 prize. Lear earned $550 for winning her district and qualifying for the national competition, and her franchise gave her $300.

"That really helps, since I go to school full time and work full time," she said. "I want to graduate with a degree and no debt. I'm not big on paying interest."

The trips gave her an opportunity to meet Burger King CEO Daniel S. Schwartz, who talked with her about her classes, and her majors in business management, finance, and economics.

"He said there are a lot of job opportunities in the corporate side of Burger King for people with experience and a degree," she said.

Lear, 19, appreciated the support given by her classmates and professors, who helped her catch up on missed classes.

"I was surprised at how willing everyone was to work with me and allow me to make up what I missed," she said.

While she's back at work at the Burger King just south of campus, her competition days are likely behind her — she earned a promotion to shift manager after returning from Miami, and managers are barred from competition. She expects she'll still make a Whopper from time to time, though, just to keep in practice.

"We get a lot of people who come in and want me to make their Whopper," she said.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Pride and Prejudice performed by University Theatre.

The production is a two-act play which Shelby Wagoner, the assistant director, describes as a classic romantic comedy about love and misunderstandings.

"It's just like a period piece version of Gossip Girl," said Wagoner. "The story is actually funny and easy to follow along."

Pride and Prejudice show dates and times are at 7 p.m. on Friday, November 1, and Saturday, November 2, and a matinee showing at 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 3, in Havens Auditorium.

Admission is $5 for students and $7 for the public. Tickets will be available at the door. The show is suitable for people age 13 and older

"It is a fast-paced adaptation of the novel. It looks more like the BBC version rather than the 2005 movie," said Director Joann Kaiser.

"The students have worked really hard in understanding the language, let alone understand the structure of this adaptation. It's been a difficult journey but well worth it. The final product should be something they can be proud of," said Kaiser.

For more information contact Kaiser at 765-455-9558 or jskaiser@iuk.edu.

Story written by Sofia Stout. Sofia is an intern for the Office of Media and Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — The 22nd annual Indiana University Kokomo Arts and Craft show will take place on this Saturday, November 2, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Kelley Student Center and Alumni Hall.

Indiana University Kokomo Arts and Craft showShoppers may choose from a variety of handcrafted products, sold by 91 vendors. A Staff Council committee reviews submissions and chooses the highest quality artisans. The event is free and open to the public. There is no cost to park on campus.

Proceeds from booth rentals go to the Staff Council scholarship fund.

"Scholarships help our students have the opportunity to better their futures," said Susan Wilson, Staff Council president. "This is a chance for us to give them that chance."

This year's event is special to members of the staff council because they are dedicating it to the memory of their friend and coworker Cathy Archer, who passed away last year. Archer served as coordinator of the craft show and was Staff Council president.

"Cathy loved the arts and crafts show, and did an excellent job organizing it," said Gail Daggett, who is coordinating this year's show. "It is important to all of us to keep it going as a tribute to her dedication to IU Kokomo students. She was proud of the scholarship money we raised with this event."

Staff Council members will also sell cookbooks in memory of Archer, who was known for her culinary skills.

The Cougar Country Café will be open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, contact Daggett at gedagget@iuk.edu.

Story written by Sofia Stout. Sofia is an intern for the Office of Media and Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

The Observatory

Patrick Motl, assistant professor of physics, will begin the open house at 7 p.m., with a talk about Comet ISON, and prospects for seeing it.

"The comet is now visible with a telescope in the sky before the sun rises, and is on track to be seen with the naked eye in about a month's time, after it swings past the sun," Motl said.

NASA's website, www.nasa.gov, has a recent photo of the comet as seen by the Hubble Space Telescope, as well as an animation of the comet's projected path.

The open house continues through 10 p.m., weather permitting.

As the evening sky darkens during November, Venus will be near its peak of brightness low in the southwest. Because the ecliptic, or imaginary line in the sky that marks the annual path of the sun, makes a shallow angle with the western horizon at this time of year for observers at mid-northern latitudes, Venus will be only 11 degrees high an hour after sunset at the beginning of the month. It will also be at its greatest elongation from the sun, but its distance from the sun will be along the horizon rather than above the horizon.

The Observatory's telescopes are a six-inch Takahashi refracting telescope and a 16-inch Meade reflecting telescope mounted together. The Takahashi provides exceptionally sharp images of planets, while the Meade allows viewers to see fainter objects in the sky, due to its larger light collecting area.

The open house is free and open to the public in the Observatory, 105 E. Rebecca Lane. Free parking is available on campus,

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

JIVE

"I went there last year looking for an internship, and left with a job," Wood, a business major, said. "I was pretty much hired on the spot. Now I have experience in selling situations, which will help me when I look for a marketing job after I graduate in May."

Wood has worked for Elite Marketing Interactions for the last year, sampling products ranging from food to fitness equipment.

He advises those attending the 2013 JIVE, set for 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 5, to dress in professional attire and bring up-to-date resumés, in order to be prepared for a similar opportunity.

"Some of these employers really are there to hire someone, so be prepared to be the best candidate," he said.

Juniors and seniors are encouraged to attend the event, in the Kelley Student Center Room 130 and Alumni Hall. Freshmen and sophomores are also welcome to get some job-seeking experience and to look for internship opportunities, according to Tracy Springer, manager of the Career and Accessibility Center.

"JIVE is an excellent opportunity for students to meet with prospective employers," she said. "Many of the 47 employers attending are looking for employees, as well as prospective interns or volunteers."

Some of the employers attending include the Kokomo Police Department, Community Howard Regional Health, Target Corporation, Regions Bank, and Chrysler LLC.

All booths will be marked with color-coded balloons, to let students know if that organization is hiring, seeking interns, or needs volunteers.

For more information about JIVE, including a complete list of organizations attending and tips for success at job fairs, go to the Career Services page at www.iuk.edu/career-services.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.