VOLUME 3 ISSUE 23 DECEMBER 15 2011 IT’S HAPPENING AT STATE Published by the Office of the Vice President for University Relations. NDSU commencement set for Dec. 16 in Bison Sports Arena NDSU winter commencement ceremonies are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 16, at 4 p.m. in the Bison Sports Arena. According to Registrar Kristi Wold-McCormick, this is NDSU’s largest fall graduating class. A total of 733 graduate, professional and undergraduate students are eligible to participate, and 520 have indicated they intend to march in the ceremony. “NDSU commencement officially was relocated to the Bison Sports Arena from the Fargodome upon the Bison football team winning Saturday’s NCAA quarterfinal playoff game,” said Wold-McCormick. “The Bison Sports Arena previously was used as the venue for NDSU commencement events and is the best alternative location to meet our ceremony and parking needs. The commencement ceremony itself remains unchanged, and will be a memorable event celebrating the academic success of our students.” Wold-McCormick urged graduating students to park in the lot south of the Bison Sports Arena, while family members and guests can either park in that lot or in the southeast portion of the Fargodome parking lot. Parking is free. For further commencement details and information, visit www.ndsu.edu/commencement. Adlina Paramarta, who will receive a Bachelor of Science in chemistry, has been selected to speak as the class representative. Paramarta is a native of the island of Java in Indonesia. Her family came to Fargo in 2006, where she graduated from Fargo North High School. She was a College of Science and Mathematics Ambassador and participated in the International Student Association, Chemistry Club, Tennis Club and Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society. The commencement soloist will be Chase Daniel Burkhart, a graduate of Grand Forks, N.D., Central High School, who is receiving a Bachelor of Music in vocal music education. He participated in numerous music performing ensembles such as NDSU Concert Choir, Madrigal Singers, Statesmen, Bison Arts Singers, University Band and the Opera Workshop productions. NDSU commencement student speaker to address ‘positive change’ NDSU senior Adlina Paramarta is frequently described as a “dynamo,” an outgoing bundle of energy and enthusiasm. Selected to represent the graduating class during NDSU’s commencement ceremony Dec. 16, she also is a proud, dedicated international student who carries a 3.99 grade- point average. “My message at commencement is to be thankful for the people who have supported us. I believe our success is their success, too,” said Paramarta, who will receive a Bachelor of Science in chemistry. “The other thing is, graduation is not the end – it is just the start. NDSU has given us the power to do good for society, to contribute to positive change.” Paramarta is a native of the island of Java in Indonesia. Her family came to Fargo in 2006, where she graduated from Fargo North High School. She’s here because her father, Susilo Poromarto, earned a master’s degree in plant pathology at NDSU in 1997, and he wanted his family to also seek opportunity in America. “When my dad applied to NDSU back in 1994, he did not see a map. He just looked at the agriculture rankings for NDSU and saw it was definitely a top university. When he got accepted, he then saw that North Dakota bordered Canada with a much different climate than Indonesia. So, I want to point out NDSU has a good, global reputation,” said Paramarta, who is graduating in an impressive three and one-half years. Paramarta Continued... www.ndsu.edu/ihas Deadline set for Jan. 13 It’s Happening at State The next electronic issue of It’s Happening at State will be posted Jan. 13 at www.ndsu.edu/ihas. Submissions for that issue are due at noon on Jan. 10. Holiday hours observed NDSU semester break/holiday hours will be observed Monday, Dec. 19, through Friday, Jan. 6. Hours will be 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular hours will resume Monday, Jan. 9. Bison football advances to NCAA Division I FCS Semifinal NDSU is scheduled to play Georgia Southern at 1:35 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17, in the Fargodome. Visit www.gobison.com for more information. News and events As information becomes available, news and event updates will be located on the “News and Events” website at www.ndsu.edu/news. PAGE2 DECEMBER 15, 2011 Paramarta has, what she calls, a “Bison family.” Her father is seeking his doctorate and her brother, Dienul, is a sophomore studying computer science. Her mother, Yuni Armawati, lends her strong support. Besides her studies, Paramarta has been actively involved in campus activities. She has been a College of Science and Mathematics Ambassador and participated in the International Student Association, Chemistry Club, Tennis Club and Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society. In addition, she served as a master of ceremonies for NDSU’s International Night. She also volunteered to discuss matters of diversity and is an undergraduate research assistant in the Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials, where she works on research focusing on environmentally friendly, bio-based coatings that have the capability to replace harmful chemical components. This past summer, Paramarta conducted research for International Business Machines (IBM) in San Jose, Calif., that developed a method to desalinate water. The project may provide accessible, cleaner drinking water in the developing world. “My experience in this country has changed the way I think. There is another side to see. It’s been amazing and it changed my perceptions. Someday, I want to go back to Indonesia to explain the misconceptions of what they see on television and what is the reality of America,” Paramarta said. “There is much more open communication here, which can be both good and bad.” As she has learned about the United States, Paramarta often has shared information about her home country and her Muslim religion. As she puts it, “positive change comes through understanding.” Along the way, she has made many friends and left quite an impression. “Adlina has proven herself to be a highly intelligent, inquisitive and delightful person. Her personality is magnetic, with all the faculty, students and staff enjoying working with her,” Victoria Johnston Gelling, associate professor of coatings and polymeric materials, wrote in a letter of support. “Adlina is smart,” wrote Kevin McCaul, dean of science and mathematics, noting her success in a demanding program. “She has served as a peer tutor, a ‘Welcome Week’ leader, a member of the college ambassadors, an active chemistry club member and an involved international student – all this while simultaneously spending many, many hours doing undergraduate research in the NDSU Research and Technology Park.” Berlin D. Nelson Jr., professor of plant pathology, said Paramarta also worked in the NDSU greenhouses. “Adlina is without a doubt one of the most responsible, smart and hardworking undergraduate students I have ever had work for me,” he wrote. Following graduation, Paramarta plans to continue her education by entering the doctoral program in coatings and polymeric materials through the NDSU Graduate School. Her long-term goals are to continue research and development of bio-based coatings in industry and become an educator for disadvantaged youth. Eventually, she wants to return to Indonesia to share her American experience. NDSU commencement ceremonies are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 16, at 4 p.m. in the Bison Sports Arena. Budget section approves increase for Minard The legislative Budget Section agreed on Dec. 13 to increase the project authorization for Minard Hall from $18 million to $22.8 million and to authorize additional funding from insurance proceeds, legal settlements and other available funds. Completion for the project is expected to be the end of 2012. NDSU agriculture administration streamlined As part of a move to streamline administration of the agricultural enterprise at NDSU, the role of vice president for agriculture will be consolidated into the existing position of dean of the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources and director of North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station. The decision was announced Dec. 8, after extensive consideration of national best practices and in consultation with a variety of state agricultural leaders. NDSU Provost Bruce Rafert worked with an advisory committee composed of leaders in agriculture inside and outside the university. “We examined the way other leading land grants structure these roles, seeking optimal communication, efficiency and lack of duplication across a very broad set of duties,” Rafert said. The group unanimously recommended merging the duties of the vice president with those of the dean and director, a model similar to the structure at many other land-grant institutions. “I appreciated the thoughtful participation of the advisory group. They worked hard to investigate many alternatives,” Rafert said. Faculty Senate and Advance Forward leadership also were consulted. Rafert also noted the decision is a return to a similar structure in the past at NDSU when the vice president, dean and director responsibilities were combined. “I am pleased that the group suggested this structure to more efficiently and cost effectively lead our contributions to agriculture in North Dakota,” Rafert said. “NDSU uniquely combines a commitment to students, our land- grant heritage and to the value of research in North Dakota, and this merger will further strengthen our delivery on all three of those important areas.” The vice president role formerly was held by D.C. Coston, who in August left NDSU to become the interim president of Dickinson State University. As a result, Ken Grafton, who was dean and director, was named interim vice president. Grafton has led agriculture to a number of successes, including improving and enhancing infrastructure, developing and implementing statewide strategic initiatives, and hiring and promoting women – including the first two female departmental leaders in the college’s history. Grafton earned his doctorate in 1980 from the University of Missouri. He has been with NDSU since 1980, on the faculty of the Department of Plant Sciences, and also has served as associate dean of the Graduate School. He became director of the Experiment Station in 2002 and dean of the college in 2005. Rodney Howe, one of the members of the advisory committee and chair of the State Board of Agricultural Research and Extension, endorsed the structure. “Dr. Grafton is an exceptional leader, a person of the highest integrity and a national expert in his field,” Howe said. “I’m delighted Ken has agreed to accept the additional duties. I am confident that he and NDSU will continue to enhance agriculture in North Dakota.” President Bresciani plans forums with academic colleges President Dean L. Bresciani is planning a series of forums with the academic colleges at NDSU throughout January. College members will be invited to participate in the 90-minute sessions. President Bresciani plans to open the forums with comments for a few minutes, and the remainder of the time will be for questions and comments. “Our academic faculty and staff are literally the lifeblood of NDSU, and I am anxious to spend more time in conversation with them,” Bresciani said. “NDSU is on a positive trajectory, and uniquely positioned to serve the state and the nation. I look forward to hearing ideas, concerns, successes and challenges as we move forward.” Each dean’s office will provide schedule information. Final candidate for Information Technology VP presents The final of three candidates for the vice president for information technology and chief information officer presented a campus open forum on Dec. 9 in the Memorial Union. Wendy Woodward discussed “Information Technology in Higher Education: Where Are We Headed?” Woodward is the director for Technology Support Services at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. The other candidates include Lisa Feldner, chief information officer in the information technology department, State of North Dakota, Bismarck, who presented on Dec. 2; and Mark Roman, formerly the president and chief executive officer of Canada’s Advanced Research and Education Network and chief information officer of the University of Victoria, British Columbia. He presented on Nov. 29. The selected candidate will succeed Bonnie Neas who retires Dec. 15. Bison Battalion sets up Hero Tree The Bison Battalion, Army ROTC program, has created a “Hero Tree” this holiday season to honor the men and women who serve or have served their country. Everyone is welcome to bring photos of Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy and Coast Guard members to adorn the tree. This is not limited to individuals who served in the U.S. military; pictures of U.S. allies also are welcome. The tree will be displayed in the Bentson-Bunker Fieldhouse, room 103, until Jan. 20, when the pictures will be available for pick-up. Contact 1st Lt. Ryan Boom at 1-7575 with any questions. Center for Nanoscale Science and Engineering names interim director Mark Lande has been named interim director of the Center for Nanoscale Science and Engineering at NDSU. The appointment, effective Dec. 1, was announced by Philip Boudjouk, vice president for research, creative activities and technology transfer. Lande is a certified public accountant with experience in municipal government, public accounting, residential real estate development and as a controller for public broadcasting. He joined the NDSU Center for Nanoscale Science and Engineering in 2004 as finance specialist and was named assistant director for administrative and financial services in 2006. Lande’s role includes financial management of the center’s research programs, financial reporting, accounting and projections, and operational compliance standards. “The main duties of the interim director will be the administration of CNSE’s finances and the restructuring of CNSE to enhance its potential to attract private sector funding,” Boudjouk said. “The technical focal points of CNSE will focus on microelectronics and combinatorial science and technology. The term of the position is expected to be at least six months.” The center conducts multidisciplinary research with partners in government, industry, private and university sectors. Its scientific capabilities include flexible electronics and materials, electronics miniaturization, wireless sensors, RFID, bioactive materials, combinatorial science and coatings technologies. Research conducted at the center has been featured in the Journal of Bioadhesion and Biofilm, Journal of Combinatorial Chemistry, New Electronics, Innovations Report, IEEE Transactions on Advanced Packaging, Chip Scale Review, Wired magazine, the Financial Times and other scientific and business publications and conference proceedings. For more information, visit www.ndsu.edu/cnse or contact Boudjouk at 1-6542. ‘Late Night Breakfast’ helps relieve stress of finals week An NDSU finals week tradition continued as the annual “Late Night Breakfast” was held Dec. 12, from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Faculty and staff helped serve the meal to all NDSU residence hall students at the Residence Dining Center. Becky Bahe, assistant director for leadership and community development in Residence Life, organized this year’s effort. She said the event attracted 1,200 to 1,500 students who dined on French toast, cinnamon rolls, bacon and orange slices. “This is an opportunity for us to give students a break from their studies, and they get a chance to interact with fellow students, faculty and staff,” Bahe explained. “We typically have students lined up at the door, waiting for us to open.” For more information on the “Late Night Breakfast,” contact Bahe at rebecca.bahe@ndsu.edu or 1-6255. Lande Bresciani New phone application will help stranded winter motorists A new smartphone application from the NDSU Extension Service will help motorists stuck in winter weather. The Winter Survival Kit app can be as critical as a physical winter survival kit if you find yourself stuck or stranded in severe winter weather conditions, says Bob Bertsch, NDSU Agriculture Communication web technology specialist. It’s available free for both Android and iOS systems. “Our app will help you find your current location, call 911, notify your friends and family, calculate how long you can run your engine to keep warm and stay safe from carbon monoxide poisoning,” Bertsch said. “You can use the Winter Survival Kit app to store important phone and policy numbers for insurance or roadside assistance. You can also designate emergency contacts you want to alert when you become stranded.” If you become stranded, the Winter Survival Kit app will help you determine your geographic location and contact emergency services. The app’s gas calculator will help you estimate how long you can run your engine on your remaining fuel. The Winter Survival Kit app will alert you every 30 minutes to remind you to turn off your vehicle’s engine periodically and check the exhaust pipe for snow buildup. These alerts are critical in helping you avoid deadly carbon monoxide poisoning, Bertsch says. The Winter Survival Kit app also provides NDSU Extension Service information on how to put together a physical winter survival kit, prepare your vehicle for winter driving and stay safe when stranded in a storm or stuck in snow. The app was developed by Myriad Devices, a company based in the NDSU Research and Technology Park incubator, which was founded by students and faculty in the NDSU Electrical and Computer Engineering Department and College of Business. The NDSU Extension Service provided design and content input, and funded the project with a U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Smith-Lever Special Needs grant. This is the second smartphone app developed jointly by the NDSU Extension Service and Myriad Devices with NIFA support. The Disaster Recovery Journal app lets users record information about damages as they enter their flooded homes using text, images and audio, and provides Extension information on how to clean or deal with flood-damaged items. Learn more about the apps at www.ag.ndsu.edu/extension/apps. Four inducted into Tapestry of Diverse Talents Four members were inducted into the Tapestry of Diverse Talents during a ceremony on Dec. 9 in the Memorial Union Century Theater. Esther Hockett, visual arts and gallery coordinator; Karla Thoennes, senior associate director of Residence Life; Holly Christian, an undergraduate student majoring in zoology; and Krista Padgett, an undergraduate student majoring in sociology, were honored during the ceremony. The Tapestry of Diverse Talents is a program of the Memorial Union. It is a pictorial mosaic that recognizes students, faculty, staff and alumni for the diversity and contributions they bring to NDSU. Each semester individuals are inducted who reflect the ages, classes, abilities, ethnicities, genders, races, regional differences, sexual orientations, beliefs and values of the university community. For more information, call 1-7350 or email Stephanie.Gramlow@ndsu.edu, or visit www.ndsu.edu/mu/programs/ civic_engagement/tapestry_of_ diverse_talents. NDSU hosts first regional BEST Robotics competition NDSU hosted the first Northern Plains BEST Robotics regional competition on Dec. 10 in the Bentson-Bunker Fieldhouse. BEST stands for “Boosting Engineering, Science and Technology.” Sixteen teams from Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota schools demonstrated how well their remote-controlled robots perform. The teams were judged on team exhibits, marketing presentations, engineering notebooks, spirit and sportsmanship. The robots were designed and built through BEST Robotics, a program to encourage students to pursue careers in engineering, science and technology through a science and engineering-based competition. The 2011 program kicked off in September when 40 middle school and high school teams from three local hubs each received a kit of equipment and parts and a set of game rules. The teams were from Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana and Canada. Five weeks later, the teams tested their robots. Six weeks later, they participated in the robotics competition at their hub. Teams that advanced to the Northern Plains BEST regional competition either had the top-performing robot or won the BEST Award, which is based on a project engineering notebook, marketing presentation, team exhibit and interview, spirit and sportsmanship, and robot performance. Hockett The Winter Survival kit app for iPhone and Android has been downloaded a total of 15,269 times as of Dec. 13. Thoennes Christian Padgett ND EPSCoR offers assistantship program for graduate students The North Dakota Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research provides competitive funding designed to increase graduate school opportunities for students from Dickinson State University, Mayville State University, Minot State University, Valley City State University and the state’s tribal colleges. The Graduate Student Research Assistantship program supports master’s or doctoral degree applicants in science, engineering and mathematics at North Dakota’s two research universities, NDSU and the University of North Dakota. American Indian and Alaskan native applicants must have graduated from one of the N.D. tribal colleges or have been a participant in N.D. EPSCoR’s Nurturing American Tribal Undergraduate Research and Education (NATURE) program. Faculty and staff are invited to recruit students. Application reviews will begin Feb. 9, 2012, with a final deadline of noon, March 8, 2012. Program information and application requirements are at www.ndepscor.nodak.edu. N.D. EPSCoR is a federally and state funded program designed to improve the ability of university researchers to compete more effectively for federal, regional and private research grants in science, engineering and mathematics. Questions can be directed to David R. Givers at 1-7516 or david.givers@ndsu.edu. Theatre NDSU announces 2012-13 season NDSU LCT Productions announced the following lineup for the 2012-13 season for Theatre NDSU. “Anon(ymous)” by Naomi Lizuka – Oct. 10-14, 2012 A poetic story of a young boy, Anon, who has fled to America from a war-torn land and his struggle to find his own identity in the midst of unstable transnational shifts and forced relocation. “The Servant of Two Masters” by Carlo Goldoni – Nov. 8-10 and Nov. 15-18, 2012 Complications and comedy thrive in this romantic farce based on classic commedia dell’arte. Enter this crazy world for an engaging evening of physical comedy containing everything from sword fights to food fights. “9 to 5: The Musical” – Music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick – Feb. 21-24, 2013 A hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. Outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic, the musical is about teaming up and taking care of business. “The Transdimensional Couriers Union” by John Heimbuch, presented by newfangled theatre company – April 17-21, 2013 When a visit from her future self sends Sophie on a journey to the ends of reality, she must choose whether to repair her relationship or time itself. Tickets for these productions will be available August 2012 at 1-7969 or at www.ndsu.edu/finearts. NDSU business student receives entrepreneurial award Ryan Raguse, a senior majoring in accounting, received the Collegiate Entrepreneur of the Year award during the Marketplace of Ideas awards program on Oct. 29 at the Sidney J. Lee Auditorium at Bismarck State College. Raguse is the owner of two start-up companies. Myriad Devices LLC is a mobile application and consulting company. It built the new smartphone Winter Survival Kit application for NDSU Extension Service, which was featured on Fox News at http://video.foxnews.com/v/1305056548001/university- launches-snow-app. The second company is VFM LLC, which stands for virtual farm manager and is a startup company that has raised investment funds for operations. Raguse also is the founder of Entrepreneurs of NDSU. Marketplace of Ideas provides education, support, mentorship, solutions and networking opportunities to inventors and entrepreneurs of all ages. Visit www.MarketplaceOfIdeas.org for more information. NDSU’s hunt seat equestrian team wins top honor For the first time, NDSU’s hunt seat equestrian team has earned the title of high point team. The team received the title Nov. 19, the first day of a two-day horse show hosted by the University of Minnesota-Crookston. The NDSU team tied with University of Minnesota-Crookston riders as the high point team the second day of the event. This was the NDSU team’s first competition of the season. Two NDSU team members also earned individual honors. Sarah Bridge, a sophomore from Plymouth, Minn., was named high point reserve rider Nov. 19 and Mattia Lein, a senior from Glyndon, Minn., was named high point rider Nov. 20. Other team members were Siara Melius, sophomore, Mound, Minn.; Erica Pfarr, senior, Rochester, Minn.; Kaylin Scarberry, sophomore, Fargo; Kelsey Voigt, senior, St. Louis Park, Minn.; Alyssa Langaas, sophomore, Greenbush, Minn.; Emily Norwig, freshman, Hampton, Minn.; Deann Berntson, freshman, Kulm, N.D.; Allison Mustonen, sophomore, Buffalo, Minn.; Carly Scanson, freshman, Fargo; and Emily Dickson, freshman, Australia. A total of 69 riders from nine colleges and universities in North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin competed in the show. “I am extremely proud of the team’s accomplishments,” says coach Erika Berg. “Their hard work paid off, and I look forward to more wins by this young team in the coming season.” The team’s next competition is Feb. 4-5, 2012, at the University of Minnesota. Student athlete receives Academic All-America honors NDSU senior defender Megan Dean was named to the Capital One Academic All-America Division I women’s soccer first team on Dec. 1. The team is selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America. Dean is the first student-athlete in NDSU’s program history to earn first team honors. Seven other Bison have earned second or third team honors, including Becky Iwanicki in 2009 and Quin Ryan in 2010. The Inver Grove Heights, Minn., native has a 3.95 grade-point average in exercise science and plans to attend physical therapy school after graduation. She earned College Sports Information Directors of America Academic All-District first team honors as a senior and second team honors as a sophomore and junior. Dean was a vital part of the defense this fall, starting all 21 games and guiding the team to a school record 11 shutouts and 15 wins. To be eligible for Capital One Academic All-America awards, student- athletes must have a 3.30 or better cumulative grade-point average on a 4-point scale, have sophomore athletic standing and be a starter or key reserve for their team. Football team members receive All-Academic recognition Bison football student-athletes Matt Veldman and Ryan Smith were named to the Missouri Valley Football Conference All-Academic Team, announced Nov. 30. Veldman was named to the first team, while Smith was selected for the second team. Veldman is a senior tight end from Becker, Minn., who is majoring in marketing. Smith, a sophomore wide receiver and return specialist from Wahpeton, N.D., is studying business administration. Receiving Honorable Mention recognition were team members Ryan Drevlow, Andrew Grothmann, Jesse Hinz and Justin Juckem. Nominees must be starters or important reserves with at least a 3.20 cumulative grade-point average. League sports information directors voted on the selections. Nursing student receives honor society scholarship Danielle Ebnet, a nursing student at NDSU, has been selected by the Xi-Kappa-At-Large Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society as the first recipient of the annual Martha Vorvick Berge Memorial Scholarship. The mission of the honor society is to support the learning, knowledge and professional development of nurses committed to making a difference in health care worldwide. Ebnet, who is from Holdingford, Minn., selected nursing because of the influence nurses have on each patient. In addition to her studies, she volunteers in a local emergency room/urgent care setting and is involved in various community activities with the Student Nurses Association at NDSU. Safety training sessions scheduled The University Police and Safety Office has scheduled several safety training sessions for NDSU employees. Baseline Safety Training is a mandatory training for all NDSU employees, including faculty, staff and student employees. Supervisors must take both Supervisor Safety Training and Baseline Safety Training. Both courses must be completed on an annual basis. Individuals who cannot attend classes are encouraged to complete the course online at www.ndsu.edu/police_safety/training and submit the short quiz to the Safety Office as proof of compliance. The following are the dates for the mandatory Baseline and Supervisor Safety Training for December, January, February and March: Baseline Safety Training: Dec. 20 – 3 p.m., FLC, Room of Nations Dec. 21 – 9 a.m., FLC, Room of Nations Jan. 24 – 3 p.m., FLC, Room of Nations Jan. 25 – 9 a.m., FLC, Room of Nations Feb. 21– 3 p.m., FLC, Room of Nations Feb. 22 – 9 a.m., FLC, Room of Nations March 20 – 3 p.m., FLC, Room of Nations March 21 – 9 a.m., FLC, Room of Nations Supervisor Safety Training: Dec. 19 – 3 p.m., Memorial Union, Arikara Room Jan. 23 – 3 p.m., Memorial Union, Arikara Room Feb. 13 – 3 p.m., Memorial Union, Arikara Room March 19 – 3 p.m., Memorial Union, Arikara Room Contact Jennifer Baker, loss control and claims specialist in the University Police and Safety Office, at jennifer.baker@ndsu.edu or 1-6740 for more information or to request training for a department. Defensive driving course planned Robin Stephens, North Dakota Department of Transportation, will give an IVN Defensive Driving Course on Tuesday, Dec. 20, from 8 a.m. to noon in EML room 183. NDSU Fleet Services requires individuals who operate fleet vehicles, on at least a monthly basis, to take the National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course as soon as possible after accepting employment and every four years thereafter. Training for persons who operate fleet vehicles less than monthly is at the discretion of agency trainers or risk managers. Fleet Services also requires those who have been involved in a motor vehicle accident with a State Fleet vehicle or have received a traffic citation while operating a State Fleet vehicle in the past 12 months to attend the course within the calendar year of the accident or citation. The University Police and Safety Office encourages those individuals who operate State Fleet vehicles less than monthly to attend the course, keeping in mind that priority will be given to those who meet the requirements above. To register, contact Tammy Aronson, safety and compliance specialist, at tammy.aronson@ndsu.edu or 1-5637. Lab and chemical safety courses offered Lab and chemical safety courses are scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012, from noon to 4 p.m. in the Memorial Union Rose room, and Thursday, Jan. 19, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Family Life Center Room of Nations. Ted Jirik, environmental health technician with the University Police and Safety Office, will instruct the courses. The course is required for new laboratory workers and serves as a refresher course for people working in laboratories. Class size is limited to 20 people per session and pre-registration is required. In the event no pre-registrations are received, the class will be canceled. It is important registered students attend the full session. Individuals registered for the class will not pass unless the entire class is completed. Topics will include knowledge about chemicals, personal protection, fire safety, electrical safety, hazard communication standards, physical and chemical hazards, chemical spills and waste handling. There is no fee for the course. To register, contact stephanie.wegner@ndsu.edu or call 1-7759. NDSU Bookstore selling children’s original artwork The NDSU Bookstore , in partnership with the Center for Child Development, is selling individual blank note cards with children’s original artwork. Each card has “the artist’s” first name and age. The one-of-a-kind note cards with envelopes are individually wrapped. Visit the Bookstore card section to find these creative and unique note cards. For more information, contact Deb Habedank, director of the Center for Child Development, at 1-8281. Researcher awarded housing needs assessment grant Richard Rathge, professor in the agribusiness and applied economics and sociology/anthropology departments, and the staff at the North Dakota State Data Center received $142,001 from the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency to conduct a statewide housing needs assessment. The purpose of the project is to enable the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency and local jurisdictions to better understand housing needs of low and moderate income people for housing and housing-related services to target and coordinate the use of federal, state and local resources available for housing. A key component of the research will be projecting housing supply and demand to the year 2030 for all counties in the state and the state’s 20 most populated cities. This will be accomplished through a modeling procedure, which includes developing population projections by age and gender for the same time period. “The key challenge we have is working with the very dynamic situation in western North Dakota created by energy development activities. Population growth in this region has increased at an unbelievable rate since 2005 and modeling its future direction is challenging,” Rathge said. The project will be completed by September 2012 and results will be made available through an online resource tool available through the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency website. Visual Arts department head selected for ‘The Fargo Project’ Michael Strand, head of the visual arts department, took part in a media conference on Dec. 8 as part of his involvement with “The Fargo Project,” a pilot project to transform a neighborhood drainage basin into a community recreational area. Strand, who serves as a principal design collaborator on “The Fargo Project,” commented on the value of the project to the local art community. The Fargo Project aims to redesign select drainage basins throughout the city into sites that will enrich the community through culture, art and sense of social connectivity, while still maintaining their function as storm water collection sites. The sites are Rabanus Park at 4315 18th Ave. S., Jefferson Park at 1831 5th Ave. S. and Buena Vista at 615 40th St. S. Others participating in the conference at the Fargo Public Library were Fargo Mayor Dennis Walaker, Fargo city planner Nicole Crutchfield and Rocco Landsman, chair of the National Endowment for the Arts. Attendees included city employees, artists, arts advocates and service workers. According to the City of Fargo Website, the opportunity to develop “The Fargo Project” is based on a relationship established with ecological artist Jackie Brookner, and through a $100,000 National Endowment for the Arts grant. The grant will be matched by the City of Fargo. The process will begin with a single pilot project developed under the care of Brookner, along with local artists. They will work together with one of the surrounding neighborhoods affected by the new drainage ditches to design the first of many new functional focal points within the city. For more Information, visit www.cityoffargo.com/CityInfo/ Departments/PlanningandDevelopment/TheFargoProjectNEAOurTown. PEOPLE Strand RESEARCH Rathge Civil engineering professor visits University of Da Lat, Vietnam G. Padmanabhan, professor of civil engineering, visited with the environmental sciences faculty at the University of Da Lat, Da Lat City, Vietnam, Oct. 1 through Nov. 25 as part of his sabbatical. He interacted with faculty and students mainly through seminars and discussions on topics of environmental importance to Da Lat and Vietnam. He spent the majority of his time studying and discussing current environmental issues in Vietnam with hopes to develop collaborative research projects between NDSU and University of Da Lat. He also engaged the Da Lat University faculty in discussions regarding training, setting up of laboratories and future directions of their program development. Seminars presented to the faculty and students included: • Non-point source pollution of lakes • Environmental policy and regulations in the USA • Opportunities for Vietnamese students to pursue graduate studies at NDSU • What is expected of a graduate student and a faculty member at NDSU? In addition, Padmanabhan was a guest of honor at the university graduation ceremony of graduate students. Special mention was made of Padmanabhan’s visit by Le Ba Dung, rector of the University of Da Lat. Padmanabhan also spoke at an event, which welcomes new students of the environmental sciences program at the invitation of Lam Ngoc Tuan, head of the department. After discussions with the faculty at the University of Da Lat, Padmanabhan has identified three research areas of mutual interest – non-point source pollution of lakes, crop residue management and disposal, and climate impact on agriculture and sociological implications. Fine arts director chairs committee, presents at conference John Miller, director of the Division of Fine Arts, chaired the nominating committee for the National Association of Schools of Music during 2010-11. The committee’s work resulted in the election of officers and committee on accreditation members during the annual convention in Scottsdale, Ariz., Nov. 19-22. Miller, a past National Association of Schools of Music region chair and member of the Commission on Accreditation, also co-presented a pre-conference workshop for new music administrators titled “Managing from the Middle” and co-presented a conference session on administering effective faculty searches. Communication assistant professor receives appointment Stephenson Beck, assistant professor of communication, was selected as program chair for the Interdisciplinary Network for Group Researchers conference in 2013 in Chicago. According to its website, scholars in the network study groups and teams across many social scientific disciplines such as communication, organizational behavior, psychology and sociology. It is the primary interdisciplinary association that advances theoretical and methodological understanding of group research group dynamics through interdisciplinary research. As program chair, Beck will coordinate the solicitation, review and selection of research proposals for presentation at the conference. Bohl named Region 4 Coach of The Year NDSU head football coach Craig Bohl was named the American Football Coaches Association’s Football Championship Subdivision Region 4 Coach of the Year. It is the first time Bohl has received the honor, which was announced Dec. 6. The 2011 Regional Coaches of the Year winners will be recognized at the association’s Coach of the Year Dinner in San Antonio, Texas, on Jan. 10. Bohl, who has a 72-31 record in nine seasons, received the 2011 Missouri Valley Football Conference’s Bruce Craddock Coach of the Year award. A finalist for the Eddie Robinson Award, he led the Bison to a conference co-championship, 10-1 overall record and a No. 2 overall seed in this year’s NCAA Division I Football Championship. Miller Padmanabhan with environmental sciences students of Da Lat University, Da Lat City, Vietnam, while on a field trip to collect water quality samples from lake inlets. Beck Bohl Residence Life staff recognized at regional conference Three NDSU Residence Life staff members were recognized at the Upper Midwest Region – Association of College and University Housing Officers regional conference in Topeka, Kan. Tim McCue, Living Learning Center hall director, received the Commitment to Social Justice Award. Nominated by several colleagues and co-workers, McCue was selected based on his personal involvement and efforts to educate others in a number of diverse areas, including civic engagement, accessibility, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex and asexual issues. Chas Lietaert, Pavek Hall director, received an award for Best Article in the association’s Perspectives Magazine. His article, “How the Hall Director Stole Christmas,” explored matters of privilege and culture with regard to common area decorations during the winter holiday season. Casey Peterson, associate director of Residence Life Staffing, was elected secretary of the Upper Midwest Region – Association of College and University Housing Officers. He will serve a two- year term. Associate professor’s screen print added to collections A screen print by Kent Kapplinger, associate professor of art, has been accepted into several collections throughout the nation. His print titled “Blood Drive” is now in collections at: • Special Collections Department and Rare Books Room, University of Colorado Boulder • Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum, University of Louisiana Lafayette • Nicholls State University, Thibodaux, La. • University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, N.D. Kapplinger’s work can be seen in more than 25 public and corporate collections, including Johnson & Johnson, Thrivent Financial, The Print Consortium, U.S. Art in Embassy Program Amity Art Foundation, Museum of Texas Tech University and Northern Illinois University Art Museum. Kapplinger considers his work collaborate in nature, inspired by authors, reporters and researchers of environmental and cultural issues interpreted through his own rural-based background. He chooses to work primarily in the print medium for its complexity, ease in creating text and potential for layering color. Professor named editor of Wetlands journal Marinus Otte, professor of biological sciences, has been named editor-in-chief of Wetlands, an international scientific journal. The Society of Wetland Scientists Board and Executive announced the appointment, which begins immediately and extends to 2016. Otte succeeds Darold Batzer of the University of Georgia, who served as editor- in-chief from 2006 to 2011. The Society of Wetland Scientists is an international organization of about 3,500 members dedicated to fostering sound wetland science, education and management. Wetlands includes all aspects of wetlands biology, ecology, hydrology, water chemistry, soil and sediment characteristics, laws, management and regulations according to Springer that publishes the journal six times per year. The publication includes peer-reviewed material that covers pioneering work in wetland science across many disciplines. “I consider the appointment as editor-in-chief of Wetlands a great honor, and an opportunity to promote NDSU and North Dakota, and am very excited to take on this position,” Otte said. He notes that submissions to the journal have more than doubled during the past six years, with the majority of submissions by international scientists. “I am looking forward to the work and to meeting new people through this position over the coming years,” he said. Otte is a lifetime member of the Society of Wetland Scientists and from 2002 to 2006, served as chairperson of the Society’s International Chapter. “Wetlands have been the theme of my research and teaching throughout my career; during my Ph.D. research in the Netherlands, my postdoctoral on the saltmarshes of South Carolina, my 14 years in Ireland and now in the Upper Midwest,” he said. Otte has led the Wet Ecosystem Research Group at NDSU since 2006. The group trains graduate and undergraduate students in scientific research, particularly wetlands, plants, biogeochemistry, watershed ecology and metals in the environment. The group collaborates with soils scientists, geologists, environmental engineers, microbiologists, and with groups underpinning management of natural resources. In addition, Otte serves as co-director of the North Dakota IdeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence Metal Analysis Core, providing laboratory facilities and mentoring for researchers in undergraduate colleges throughout the state. Otte also is a member of the Upper Midwest Aerospace Consortium. He earned his master’s and doctoral degrees from Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Otte’s research interests include wetlands, ecology, ecotoxicology, ecophysiology and biogeochemistry. For more information on Wetlands, visit www.sws.org/wetlands. For more information on the Society of Wetland Scientists, visit www.sws.org. McCue Otte Lietaert Peterson Kapplinger Music professor featured in performances Virginia Sublett, professor of music, appeared as soprano soloist in Brahms’ “Requiem” with the Grand Forks Master Chorale. She also has been invited to appear as soprano soloist in Stephen Paulus’ oratorio, “To Be Certain of the Dawn,” with the North Central American Choral Director’s Association Chorale at its conference in February 2012 in Madison, Wis. Sublett also was the soprano soloist in the NDSU Baroque Festival’s presentation of Handel’s “Messiah” and Kuhnau’s “Magnificat” on Dec. 11 in Festival Concert Hall. Visual arts professor elected to Spirit Room board Kim Bromley, professor of painting and drawing, has been selected to the Spirit Room board of directors. Board members guide the organization, which has a mission of enriching lives through development and practice of creative, contemplative and healing arts. Bromley brings to the organization his research involving hypnosis and creativity. With his co-researchers, he published “Hypnotic Enhancement of Creative Drawing” in the October 2007 issue of The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis. He has presented his research internationally, most recently at the Southeastern College of Art Annual Conference in Savannah, Ga. The Spirit Room is located at 111 Broadway in Fargo. Counseling Center to host ‘Mental Health First Aid’ training The NDSU Counseling Center will host a Mental Health First Aid Certificate Training session Feb. 27 through March 1 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. each day in the NDSU Memorial Union. According to an email from the center, one in four Americans lives with a mental health problem. Yet, up to two-thirds go without treatment. Just as CPR training helps a layperson without medical training assist an individual following a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid training helps a layperson assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis. The National Council on Community Behavioral Healthcare has begun working with communities throughout the nation, including the NDSU Counseling Center, to implement Mental Health First Aid training across the United States. The clinical and qualitative evidence behind the program demonstrates that it helps the public better identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness, thus improving outcomes for individuals experiencing these illnesses. The training program is a 12-hour interactive session. The certification introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems, builds understanding of their impact and overviews common treatments. Specifically, participants learn: • The potential risk factors and warning signs for a range of mental health problems including: depression, anxiety/ trauma, psychosis and psychotic disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorders and self-injury • An understanding of the prevalence of various mental health disorders in the U.S. and the need for reduced stigma in their communities • A five-step action plan encompassing the skills, resources and knowledge to assess the situation, to select and implement appropriate interventions, and to help the individual in crisis connect with appropriate professional care • The appropriate professional, peer, social and self-help resources available to help someone with a mental health problem This first Mental Health First Aid training is open to NDSU faculty, staff and students. Registration will be capped at 25 participants and there is a $20 fee to cover the cost of materials. For more information or to register for the training, call the NDSU Counseling Center at 1-7671. For more information on Mental Health First Aid, visit www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org. FORWARD announces new faculty workshop and future events The FORWARD project will begin spring semester events with “Enhancing Department Climate: Tips for New Faculty” scheduled for Monday, Jan. 9, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Memorial Union Arikara room. During the workshop, the FORWARD group will share tips for new faculty members on a successful transition to NDSU and on promoting a more inclusive department culture to create a vibrant and fulfilling intellectual community. The workshop has been offered in the fall as part of fall orientation for faculty, but this is the first time the event will be offered in the spring. Registration is requested at www.ndsu.edu/forward. Evaluations for past fall workshops can be found at www.ndsu. edu/forward/advance_forward_initiatives/climate_ workshops. Additional FORWARD events in January include a promotion-to- professor and work-life balance luncheon and discussion facilitated by Harriet McCaul on Jan. 17, a series of presentations by speaker Joan Williams on excelling in academia on Jan. 20 and an open forum on faculty with disabilities on Jan. 31 in the Memorial Union Century Theater. February events include ally training on Feb. 9, faculty search committee training on Feb. 14 and 16, and a lecture series by Scott Page on the power of diversity on Feb. 22 and 23. March events include a leadership workshop with Claudia and Ruben Fernandez on March 15. Further details about times and registration for these events, as well as other FORWARD events throughout the year, will be announced in future issues of It’s Happening at State and on the FORWARD website. Sublett Bromley EVENTS Farm/ranch transition planning classes set The NDSU Extension Service has scheduled a farm/ranch transition planning working series for Feb. 9, 16 and 23, 2012. The sessions will run from 6:15 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Central Standard Time and 5:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mountain Standard Time at the following locations across the state: • Ashley High School, 703 Main St. W., Ashley, N.D. • Beulah High School, 204 5th St. N.W., Beulah, N.D. • Bottineau County District Court room, second floor, Bottineau County Courthouse, 314 5th St. W., Bottineau, N.D. • Towner County Extension office, 404 5th Ave., Suite 1, Cando, N.D. • Carrington Research Extension Center, 663 Highway 281 N.E., Carrington, N.D • Griggs County Extension office, Griggs County Courthouse, 808 Rollins Ave. S.W., Cooperstown, N.D. • Armory meeting room, 417 5th St. N.E., Devils Lake, N.D. • Grand Forks County Extension office, County Office Building, 151 4th St. S., Suite 302, Grand Forks, N.D. • North Central Research Extension Center, 5400 Highway 83 S., Minot, N.D. • Mountrail County Extension office, Memorial Building, 18 2nd Ave. S.W., Stanley, N.D. • Barnes County Public Health DES room, Barnes County Courthouse, 230 4th St. N.W., Valley City, N.D. • Richland County Commission room, Richland County Courthouse, 418 2nd Ave. N., Wahpeton, N.D. “Farmers and ranchers have some very unique transition issues, these sessions are geared to their specific needs,” says Willie Huot, Grand Forks County Extension agent and state coordinator for the farm and ranch transition planning program. “The major increase in asset values, especially land, in the last several years has made this topic even more critical of late.” The sessions will have a combination of presentations via the North Dakota Interactive Video Network and local experts at each location. Attending all three sessions is important. Topics for the first session are why you should plan your estate, who should be involved, what materials you’ll need and the importance of communication among family members. The IVN presenter will be Gary Goreham, professor of rural sociology in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at NDSU. Session two will cover farm business arrangements, including the pros and cons of different types of business organizations for farmers and ranchers in North Dakota. Session three will address farm succession planning, and tax and economic consequences of asset transfer strategies. The IVN presenter for both sessions two and three will be Andy Zenk, agribusiness consultant, AgCountry/Farm Credit Services, Grand Forks. The early bird registration fee is $55 for individuals and $15 each for spouses or business associates (up to two additional) if postmarked by Feb. 2, 2012. After that date, individual registrations will increase to $75. Registration fees include materials and refreshments. For registration information, contact the Extension agent at the site you want to attend. Registration forms, as well as online registration, also are available at www.ag.ndsu.edu/anniesproject. Click on Farm/Ranch Transition Planning, then the Transition Planning Registration Form at the bottom of the page. Anyone interested in attending the workshop should register as soon as possible because seating is limited at most of the sites. For more information about the workshop, contact the county Extension office for the site you want to attend or Huot at 701-780-8229 or willie.huot@ndsu.edu. NDSU Feedlot School set for Jan. 24-25 NDSU’s Carrington Research Extension Center will hold its annual NDSU Feedlot School on Jan. 24-25, 2012. The intensive course is for cattle producers, feeders, backgrounders, feed industry personnel, animal health-care suppliers and persons interested in learning more about feedlot production, nutrition, waste management and marketing. Feedlot School topics will include future opportunities for feeding cattle; animal nutritional requirements; feed additives and implant strategies; feed processing/mixing and nutrient optimization; ration formulation and break-even calculation; feeds and feed testing; facility management; diseases, treatments and health programs; feed delivery; bunk reading; waste and nutrient management; carcass quality and marketing on the grid; using market information for strategic planning; risk management with pricing opportunities; budgeting; custom feeding; and business management. The school also will include tours of a commercial feedlot and the CREC livestock facilities. Instructors include faculty from NDSU’s animal sciences department and the Carrington and North Central Research Extension Centers, as well as others who have extensive experience working with northern Plains feedlots. The registration fee is $100 per person or $150 for two people from the same operation. A three-ring feedlot school binder is included with the registration. The deadline to register is Jan. 17. The fee does not include lodging. Participants must make their own lodging arrangements. Lodging is available at the Chieftain Conference Center, 701-652-3131, or the Carrington Inn and Suites, 701-652-3982. For more information about the course or to register, contact Foster County Extension agent Joel Lemer at 701-652-2581 or joel.lemer@ndsu.edu. The Carrington Research Extension Center is 3.5 miles north of Carrington on U.S. Highway 281. Lake Region Extension Roundup set for Jan. 3-4 The 2012 Lake Region Extension Roundup will be Jan. 3-4, 2012, in Devils Lake, N.D. The annual event, which the NDSU Extension Service organizes, offers presentations on a wide range of agricultural production and family topics. Both days start with breakfast at 8 a.m. General and concurrent sessions begin at 9:30 a.m. The general sessions are in the World War II Memorial Building. Concurrent sessions will be in the Memorial Building’s basement, the Armory Room, and the Historical Room and meeting room in the adjoining Ramsey County Courthouse. General session topics on Jan. 3 include slowing weed resistance, leaf tissue analysis and micro-nutrients, the 2012 spring wheat outlook, small-grain insect and disease transmission, applying fungicide for scab, adding adjuvants to spray solutions and why wheat yields were lower than expected. Concurrent session topics that day include land worth, agricultural contracts, cover crops, cell phone applications for agriculture, salinity and tiling, land rent negotiations, farm transitions, Natural Resources Conservation Service conservation assistance for 2012, apple tree selection and growing tips, how to kill lawn weeds, a parenting tool box, winter wheat, corn-growing strategies and barley trends. Topics for the general sessions Jan. 4 include controlling dandelions, Canada thistle, foxtail barley and yellow toadflax; the 2011 canola overview; corn industry update; 2011 fungicide response in wheat; new rust in spring wheat; and flexible rent options. Concurrent session topics that day include using geographic information systems to enhance crop productivity, new findings in soybean production, dry beans, on-farm feedlot monitoring results, a cow’s worth from a feeding perspective, maximizing the value of future calf crops, beef genomics, possible changes in the new farm bill, new opportunities in canola, managing prevented planting acreage, benefits and drawbacks of trees for conservation and on-farm tile drainage monitoring results. Other events on Jan. 4 include the presentation of the Water Steward Award. Also, the guest speaker, cowboy poet and humorist Rodney Nelson, will focus on the light side of rural life. Attending the roundup is free of charge. No registration is necessary. For more information, contact your county Extension Service office or Bill Hodous at bill.hodous@ndsu.edu or 701-662-7027. Wild World of Weeds Workshop set for Jan. 24 The annual Wild World of Weeds Workshop is set for Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012, at the Ramada Plaza Suites in Fargo. The workshop is intended for agricultural professionals who advise growers on weed control and herbicide use, crop consultants, agronomists, agricultural dealers and distributors, Extension agents and industry representatives. NDSU scientists, including Mike Christoffers, Jeff Stachler, Brian Jenks, Greg Endres, Kirk Howatt, Harlene Hatterman-Valenti, Greta Gramig, Mike Ostlie and Rich Zollinger, will present information on a variety of environmental and weed science topics during the workshop. Bob Hartzler, Iowa State University weed specialist and professor of agronomy, also will present. Registration begins at 8 a.m., with concurrent sessions beginning at 9 a.m. Topics for the workshop include: • NDSU research updates on small grains, corn, soybeans, edible legumes, oil seed crops, root crops, minor crops, weed biology, noxious/troublesome weeds, and adjuvants and formulations • Survey of relevant weed science topics • Science-based glyphosate interactions with micronutrients and plant health • Cultural practices to protect the value of herbicides • Why weed resistance is increasing Lodging is available at the Ramada at a reduced rate. The agenda and a registration form are available at www.ag.ndsu.edu/weeds. The registration fee is $85 until Jan. 13 and $125 after that date. The registration fee covers food and resource materials. Registration is available online only. Six credits for the Certified Crop Advisor Program will be given for attending the workshop. The credits are for pest management. For more information, contact Rich Zollinger, NDSU Extension Service weed specialist, at 1-8157 or r.zollinger@ndsu.edu. NDSU alumnus, faculty receive ‘Best Paper Award’ Charles A. Briggs, PhD ’10, transportation and logistics, received the “Best Paper Award” from the International Academy of Business and Public Administration Disciplines for the paper, “Managing and Mitigating the Upstream Petroleum Industry Supply Chain Risks: Leveraging Analytic Hierarchy Process.” The paper was co- written with Denver Tolliver and Joseph Szmerekovsky, both of NDSU. Briggs accepted the award at the organization’s fall conference in Memphis, Tenn. The paper addresses the oil industry supply chain as it continues to grow longer and more complex, searching for ways to mitigate risks of disruption. The Analytic Hierarchy Process used in the study provides a decision support framework to cope with multiple criteria decision-making situations. Results from the analysis suggest the preferred method of mitigating the supply chain risk is to internalize and manage the risks, rather than pass them onto a third party. According to its website, the International Academy of Business and Public Administration Disciplines strives to promote excellence in public administration and all business disciplines through conferences and publications. For more information on the academy, visit www.iabpad.com. PUBLICATIONS/PRESENTATIONS Business faculty publish manuscript William “Bud” Bowlin, professor of accounting and department head of accounting, finance and information systems; Tom Dowdell, associate professor of accounting; and David Herda, assistant professor of accounting, had their manuscript, “Auditor Response to Earnings Management Through Real Transactions,” accepted for publication in Journal of Theoretical Accounting Research. The authors said real earnings management is management actions that deviate from normal business practices and are undertaken to meet certain earnings thresholds. Prior research asserts that real earnings management does not result in increased scrutiny from regulators and auditors and cites this as an explanation for the switch from accrual-based to real earnings management after the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. In the paper, the authors investigate whether auditors respond to real earnings management by increasing engagement risk. Using a sample of 131 auditors at two accounting firms, they found that auditors would respond to real earnings management by raising risk, which indicates that auditors are concerned with such actions. Business faculty’s paper accepted to managerial journal Chanchai Tangpong, associate professor of management, and Jin Li, assistant professor of marketing, co-wrote the paper, “Robustness of General Risk Propensity Scale in Cross-Cultural Settings,” which was accepted for publication in the Journal of Managerial Issues. Tangpong and Li said risk propensity of decision makers could be an influencing factor that ultimately shapes the outcomes of multifaceted business decisions. Therefore, developing a reliable and valid measurement scale for individuals’ risk propensity has become an important research endeavor. The study aims to modify the existing General Risk Propensity scale and improve its robustness by testing it in cross-cultural settings. Specifically, the study tested, modified and cross-validated the General Risk Propensity scale with two sub-samples – experienced business professionals in the U.S. and China. The study also tested the predictive validity of the modified General Risk Propensity scale with an empirically grounded decision-making scenario in new product development. The results suggest that the modified General Risk Propensity scale attained reliability and validity in both cultural settings. The findings support the use of this modified scale to assess general risk propensity of business decision makers in both cultural settings. Undergraduate students present at philosophy conference Three NDSU students Dominic Manthey, Jeff Rother and Spencer Ptacek presented their research at the fourth annual Undergraduate Philosophy Conference Nov. 19 at Minnesota State University Moorhead. Manthey, a senior double majoring in English and philosophy, presented “Existentialism and Buddhism: Problem of the Self.” He said it is a comparative research paper on the philosophical movement of Existentialism and its unique re-evaluation of a “self,” which resembles some ancient Buddhist ideas. Rother, a fifth-year senior who will graduate Dec. 16 with a double major in psychology and philosophy, presented “I and You.” He said the paper was inspired by the book “I and Thou” by Martin Buber and connections between that book, Edmund Husserl material and “A Grief Observed” by C.S. Lewis. Ptacek, a fourth-year student double-majoring in English and philosophy, presented “What’s the Difference? A Comparison of Sartre’s Nothingness and Derrida’s Différance.” He said the paper examines of the work of the French philosophers Jean-Paul Sartre and Jacques Derrida, with specific emphasis on the philosophers’ connection to literature. The students heard about the conference through NDSU professors who assisted with the conference. Dennis Cooley, associate professor, and Vincent Wargo, lecturer, both in the Department of History, Philosophy and Religious Studies, co-chaired the event. The students say it is beneficial to present their work for a number of reasons. “It gives an opportunity to gain experience in public speaking. It looks very good on graduate school applications and resumes,” Rother said. “It also allows for critical analysis of your own and others’ thoughts and ideas.” The students hope their work can bring attention to NDSU’s philosophy department. “When students in NDSU’s philosophy program participate in something like this, it is a way of showing that there is still serious interest in the study of philosophy at NDSU, and also perhaps a way of drawing interest to NDSU’s philosophy program, which is important,” Ptacek said. “There is a lot of good scholarship going on and students should be publicly encouraged to attend and listen to what we have to say,” Rother said. Bowlin Dowdell Herda Tangpong Li Researcher to publish papers in Current Pharmaceutical Design Erxi Wu, assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences co-wrote two articles, “Therapeutic potential of perineural invasion, hypoxia and desmoplasia in pancreatic cancer” and “The cancer-stroma interaction: a potential approach for pancreatic cancer treatment,” which have been accepted by Current Pharmaceutical Design. The papers will appear in the issue “Targeted Therapies for Pancreatic Cancer” for Current Pharmaceutical Design. The first paper describes the main players in perineural invasion, hypoxia and desmoplasia and the molecular mechanisms of these pathophysiological processes. Wu said pancreatic cancer is one of the most fatal human malignancies. Though a relatively rare malignancy, it remains one of the deadliest tumors with an extremely high mortality rate. The prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer remains poor and only patients with small tumors and complete resection have a chance of a complete cure. Pancreatic cancer responds poorly to conventional therapies, including chemotherapy and irradiation. Tumor-specific targeted therapy is a relatively recent addition to the arsenal of anti-cancer therapies. It is important to find novel targets to distinguish tumor cells from their normal counterparts in therapeutic approaches. In the past few decades, studies have revealed the molecular mechanisms of pancreatic tumorigenesis, growth, invasion and metastasis. The proteins that participate in the pathophysiological processes of pancreatic cancer might be potential targets for therapy. The second review paper describes that the interaction between the cancer and the stroma plays a key role in the development of pancreatic cancer. The desmoplasia, which consists of fibroblasts, pancreatic stellate cells, lymphatic and vascular endothelial cells, immune cells, pathologic increased nerves and the extracellular matrix, creates a complex tumor microenvironment that promotes pancreatic cancer development, invasion, metastasis and resistance to chemotherapy. Thus, the potential approach for targeting the components of this desmoplastic reaction or the pancreatic tumor microenvironment might represent a novel therapeutic approach to advanced pancreatic carcinoma. Novel therapies that target on the pancreatic tumor microenvironment should become one of the more effective treatments for pancreatic cancer. “Both papers systematically summarize perineural invasion, hypoxia and desmoplasia as well as tumor-stroma interaction as potential approaches for pancreatic cancer treatment,” Wu said, “These two papers were co-written with the Ma lab at Xi’an Jiaotong University, China. Together with the Ma lab, we commit to finding cancer therapeutics and elucidating the mechanisms of the targeted therapy for pancreatic cancer, the fourth leading cause of cancer death.” Current Pharmaceutical Design is published by Bentham Science Publishers and ranks 22nd among 249 pharmacology and pharmacy journals. The “theme issues” contain reviews in important fields of current research activity, such as modern drug design including medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, drug targets and disease mechanism, written by eminent experts in the field. The aim of the journal is to provide readers with comprehensive accounts of recent developments in the frontier areas of the field. For more information, visit www.benthamscience.com/cpd. Wu research interests include tumor therapeutic targets, drug discovery and biomarkers. This year, Wu has had 20 papers published or in press. Human development and education faculty publish and present Kevin C. Miller, assistant professor of athletic training, was recently interviewed by Outside Magazine regarding his research on the causes of muscle cramping. The article will discuss Miller’s observations that dehydration does not increase the risk of developing muscle cramps. The article will be published in Outside Magazine’s January 2012 issue. Outside Magazine has approximately 700,000 subscribers. Anita Welch, assistant professor in the School of Education, presented the paper “P-12 Robotics Competitions: Building More than Just Robots” at the School Science and Mathematics Annual Convention in Colorado Springs, Colo. Greg Sanders, associate dean/professor in the College of Human Development and Family Science, recently published an article in Gerontology and Geriatrics Education titled “The Great Plains IDEA Gerontology Program: An Online, Interinstitutional Graduate Degree.” Jared Tucker, assistant professor of health, nutrition and exercise sciences, gave a research presentation at the national Obesity Society Conference in Orlando, Fla., titled “Obesity Contributes to Reduced Physical Activity Levels Over 20 Months in Women: A Prospective Cohort Study.” Tom Carlson and Christi McGeorge, associate professors of human development and family science, and their colleague, Russell Toomey from Arizona State University, presented the paper, “Establishing the Validity of the LGB Affirmative Training Inventory,” at the annual conference of the National Council on Family Relations. Gary Liguori, associate professor of health, nutrition and exercise sciences, was recently granted Fellow status in the American College of Sports Medicine. Liguori currently serves as chair of American College of Sports Medicine’s Health Fitness Specialist certification committee and also is the senior editor of its first edition Resource Manual for the Health Fitness Specialist. Heather Fuller-Iglesias, assistant professor of human development and family science, and co-authors from the University of Michigan presented two papers at the biennial meeting of the Society for the Study of Human Development held Oct. 28-30 in Providence, R.I. The first paper, “Does family support influence well-being differently for men and women?” was written by Fuller-Iglesias and Noah Webster. The second paper, “The racial context of health effects on changes in social networks,” was written by Webster, Fuller-Iglesias and Toni Antonucci. Linda Manikowske, associate professor, and Sara Sunderlin, senior lecturer, both in the Department of Apparel, Design and Hospitality Management, presented two poster sessions at the International Textile and Apparel Association conference in Philadelphia. The presentations were “Clothing and Connections: A Partnership for Service Learning” and “The Salvation Army Store Project: Students Make a Difference.” Wu Kelly Sassi, assistant professor of English and English education, attended the Assembly on Literature for Adolescents of the National Council for Teachers of English in Chicago where she was recognized for serving as the state assembly’s representative during the past year. She also will serve during the upcoming year. Sassi presented during the panel session, “Common Core Standards and the Dilemma of Writing District-Wide Curriculum.” According to the convention program, the session draws on one year of curriculum work by an English Language Arts Committee comprised of a dozen sixth through 12th grade English teachers as they analyze the affordance and limitations of adopting the common core standards. Counselor education master’s degree students recently completed their comprehensive exams and all students passed. Students take the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Exam, which is a nationally normed exam. Students from the NDSU counseling program scored well above (almost one Standard Deviation) the national mean on the exam. SHORTS AND REMINDERS Policy Update The following policy has recently been added or revised. To view the complete policy, visit www.ndsu.nodak.edu/policy. Policy 134: Faculty/Staff Assistance This change reflects NDSU’s new Employee Assistance Program provider, Deer Oaks. Positions available Positions open and screening dates through the Office of Human Resources, SGC, 1919 N. University Drive. Position openings also are available through the NDSU website at www.ndsu.edu/jobs. Director, International Programs Office of International Programs Commensurate w/education and experience Open until filled Archivist/#00021104 Library $44,000/year Jan. 15 Veterinary Technician/Veterinary Technologist Animal Science $28,000+/year Dec. 30 Director/#00027872 (Hettinger, N.D.) Nursing $60,000/year Dec. 30 Software Engineer CNSE Commensurate w/experience Open until filled HPC Systems Administrator Computationally Assisted Science and Technology Commensurate w/experience Open until filled Nutritional Research Specialist/#00020244 Animal Sciences $19,500+/year Open until filled Nutrition Laboratory Technician Animal Sciences $19,500+/year Open until filled Mid-Level Practitioner NP/PA Student Health Services $56,160+/year Open until filled Staff Writer/#00025229 University Relations Commensurate w/experience Open until filled Technical Director/#00021434 Northern Crops Institute Commensurate w/experience Feb. 12 Ruminant Nutrition Physiology Technician/#00020240 Animal Sciences $20,500+/year Open until filled Histology Laboratory Coordinator/#00027420 Animal Sciences $22,000+/year Open until filled Bio/Immunoassay Laboratory Coordinator/#00027419 Animal Sciences $22,000+/year Open until filled Research Specialist/Agriculture North Central Research Extension Center Commensurate w/experience Open until filled Nutrition Education Assistant, FNP (Fort Berthold) Extension Food and Nutrition $25,900+/year Open until filled Nutrition Education Assistant, FNP – Sioux County Extension Food and Nutrition $25,900+/year Open until filled Administrative Secretary, Fort Berthold Extension Office Extension Services $26,000+/year Open until filled Custodian/#00028178 Residence Life $19,760+/year Open until filled Catering/Swing Cook (hours vary depending on business) Dining Services $12.50+/hour Open until filled P.M. Cook (noon-8:30 p.m.) Dining Services $12.50+/hour Open until filled CALENDAR DECEMBER 15-16 NDSU Bookstore Days of Deals (final days) – Stop by the store or visit www.facebook.com/ndsubookstore to find out the deal. 15-Jan. 10 Travis Beauchene Baccalaureate Show – Memorial Union Gallery. For more information, visit www.ndsu.edu/mu/programs/gallery/ exhibits_and_artists. 16 Department of Military Science Army ROTC Fall Commissioning ceremony – 10:30 a.m., NDSU Alumni Center 16 NDSU Commencement – 4 p.m., Bison Sports Arena 17 Football playoffs vs. Georgia Southern – 1:35 p.m., Fargodome 17 Men’s Basketball vs. Mayville State – 7 p.m., Bison Sports Arena 18 Wrestling vs. Nebraska – 1 p.m., McCormick Wrestling Complex, second level of the Bison Sports Arena 19 NDSU semester break/holiday hours begin 26 Christmas holiday – NDSU will be closed. JANUARY 2 New Year’s holiday – NDSU will be closed. 9 NDSU regular hours resume 18 Gear Up for Grants Seminar, “Research Data Management” – 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Memorial Union Arikara room, presented by the Research and Data Working Group 19-23 NDSU Bookstore event– Meet the Art and Supply Department staff and learn about the new online ordering process at the Memorial Union location. 23-27 Innovation Week MORE CAMPUS EVENTS www.ndsu.edu/eventcalendar NEXT ISSUE Publication date: Friday, Jan. 13 | Submissions due: Jan. 10 at noon SEND SUBMISSIONS TO THE EDITOR Linsey Davis | ndsu.itshappening@ndsu.edu Library 16, NDSU Dept 6020, PO Box 6050, Fargo, ND 58108-6050 | Voice: 231-8326 | Fax: 231-8969 TO RECEIVE E-MAIL NOTIFICATION WHEN AN ISSUE IS POSTED ONLINE (NON-NDSU EMPLOYEES) | char.goodyear@ndsu.edu North Dakota State University does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a U.S. veteran. Direct inquiries to the Vice President for Equity, Diversity, and Global Outreach, 205 Old Main, (701) 231-7708.