Archive – January, 2008
Understanding America's racial divide drives Pager's work
Posted January 31, 2008; 12:45 p.m.
As a young girl growing up in Hawaii, Devah Pager was accustomed to a diverse society, where people of different ethnic groups blended easily and many of her peers claimed "mixed" racial identities. After her move to Los Angeles for college, however, she was struck by the degree to which the rest of American society, particularly in big cities, was divided by race. This contrast sparked a curiosity in Pager -- who is now an associate professor of sociology at Princeton -- that has guided much of her career.
Exhibition features children's works
Posted January 30, 2008; 11:47 p.m.
The Princeton University Art Museum will present "Mini Masters," a special exhibition of children's art inspired by works in the museum's collections and exhibitions, Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 9-10.
Microphone innovator James West to speak
Posted January 30, 2008; 11:41 p.m.
James West, co-inventor of the modern-day microphone, will give the keynote address at a leadership conference sponsored by the Princeton chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, in the Friend Center Auditorium. His talk is titled "Where Credit Is Due: The Black and Hispanic Heritage in Technology."
Panel examines evangelicals and 2008 vote
Posted January 30, 2008; 11:35 p.m.
A panel discussion on "Evangelicals and the 2008 Primaries" is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, in 10 East Pyne.
Conference examines Rehnquist's contributions, Feb. 8
Posted January 30, 2008; 11:30 p.m.
A distinguished group of legal scholars will examine and evaluate the work of William Rehnquist as a constitutional jurist during a conference from 9:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, in Dodds Auditorium, Robertson Hall.
Talk focuses on role of military contractors
Posted January 30, 2008; 11:28 p.m.
Doug Brooks, president of the International Peace Operations Association, a nongovernmental trade and lobbying organization representing private military companies, will speak at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, in 16 Robertson Hall. His talk is titled "Stability Operations for Dummies: The Role of the Private Sector in Iraq."
Advertising.com president to discuss startup success
Posted January 30, 2008; 11:22 p.m.
Innovative business strategist Lynda Clarizio, president of Advertising.com, will discuss "Advancing a Startup: Becoming a Big Business" at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, in the Friend Center Convocation Room.
Talk explores science and religion
Posted January 30, 2008; 11:16 p.m.
"Cognitive Foundations of Science and Religion" is the topic of a lecture by scholar Robert McCauley set for 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, in 100 Jones Hall.
Expo set on spring break, summer camps
Posted January 30, 2008; 11:11 p.m.
University families can learn more about upcoming opportunities for their children at the Spring Break and Summer Camp Expo, which is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, in the Frist Campus Center Multipurpose Rooms A and B.
Kristol to speak on election panel
Posted January 30, 2008; 11:06 p.m.
William Kristol, editor of The Weekly Standard and columnist for The New York Times, will be among the panelists in a discussion titled "Election 2008: Where Do Things Go From Here? Conservative Perspectives" at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 6, in 219 Burr Hall.
U.S. comptroller general presents talk
Posted January 30, 2008; 11:01 p.m.
U.S. Comptroller General David Walker will present a lecture on "Keeping America Great" at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 6, in 16 Robertson Hall.
'Speaking of Faith' host to read from work
Posted January 30, 2008; 10:56 p.m.
Krista Tippett, host of American Public Media's nationally syndicated radio program "Speaking of Faith," will read from her work and join Princeton scholars in a roundtable discussion at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 5, in McCosh 50.
Panel to address income inequality
Posted January 30, 2008; 10:49 p.m.
Three Princeton scholars will participate in a panel discussion titled "Diminishing Returns: Income Inequality in the United States" at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 5, in 16 Robertson Hall.
Talk explores politics in Pakistan
Posted January 30, 2008; 10:38 p.m.
"State of Denial: Politics, Islam and Nuclear Weapons in Pakistan" is the title of a talk by physicist Pervez Hoodbhoy of Quaid-e-Azam University in Islamabad, Pakistan, set for 4:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4, in 16 Robertson Hall.
Acquisition of Greek coins enriches study of medieval history
Posted January 30, 2008; 06:49 p.m.
A recent acquisition by the University Library's Department of Rare Books and Special Collections of more than 800 coins from medieval Greece will help researchers deepen their knowledge about a period of Middle Age history that has been little understood by scholars. The Sarmas Collection of coins from medieval Greece is available to researchers on campus and around the world through the University Numismatic Collection.
Student artwork showcased
Posted January 30, 2008; 06:30 p.m.
The Program in Visual Arts will present "Student Art: Work From the Fall 2007 Semester," a group show featuring ceramics, sculpture, painting, drawing and photography," from Feb. 5-15 in the Lucas Gallery, 185 Nassau St.
Conference examines Rehnquist's contributions
Posted January 30, 2008; 01:03 p.m.
A distinguished group of legal scholars will examine and evaluate the work of William Rehnquist as a constitutional jurist during a conference from 9:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, in Dodds Auditorium, Robertson Hall.
Princeton sets applications record for fourth year in a row--UPDATED
Posted January 28, 2008; 04:10 p.m.
For the fourth consecutive year, Princeton University set a record for students applying for admission, receiving 21,262 applications for the class of 2012 (updated Jan. 28). The number of applicants represents a 12 percent increase over last year's record of 18,942 applications for the class of 2011 and comes even as Princeton marks the completion of its first application cycle after ending its early decision admission option.
For geoscientist Simons, Earth's deepest secrets may come from the sea
Posted January 28, 2008; 12:37 p.m.
Princeton Earth scientist Frederik Simons believes the answers to questions about such unpredictable and destructive acts of nature as earthquakes and volcanoes might best be found floating in the ocean. Despite hundreds of seismometers and geological studies, scientists still have an imperfect understanding of what happens deep within the planet where these phenomena begin. Simons has developed a custom-made, free-floating sensor that could provide a clearer picture of the Earth's interior by using the additional perspective only the oceans can provide.
Trustees approve fee increase, funding for key initiatives
Posted January 26, 2008; 12:26 p.m.
Princeton University trustees Jan. 26 approved the lowest percentage increase in student fees since 2001-02 -- 3.9 percent -- while also approving an almost 7 percent increase in the undergraduate scholarship budget to ensure that the increase in fees will not affect any student on financial aid. For students not on financial aid, the trustees sought to keep the rate of increase consistent with the expected rate of increase in the incomes of these students' families.
Fine print: New technique allows fast printing of microscopic electronics
Posted January 24, 2008; 05:24 p.m.
A new technique for printing extraordinarily thin lines quickly over wide areas could lead to larger, less expensive and more versatile electronic displays as well new medical devices, sensors and other technologies.
Lederman secures Keasbey Scholarship
Posted January 24, 2008; 11:42 a.m.
Senior Harvey Lederman has been awarded the Keasbey Scholarship, which provides the opportunity to study at selected British universities.
Biesiada wins APS prize for graduate work
Posted January 23, 2008; 04:43 p.m.
Jed Biesiada, who earned his Ph.D. in physics from Princeton in 2007, has been awarded the American Physical Society's 2008 Mitsuyoshi Tanaka Dissertation Award in Experimental Particle Physics.
On the campaign trail: Students get firsthand look at presidential politics
Posted January 23, 2008; 03:34 p.m.
When asked what they learned through the Pace Center's 2008 New Hampshire Primary Action Program, students offered insights into the American electoral process that can best be gained by experiencing the intensity of a presidential campaign firsthand. Nineteen students traveled to New Hampshire with the Pace Center over winter break for the state's first-in-the-nation primary. The nonpartisan program was conceived as an educational mission to help students develop a deeper understanding of campaign politics, the presidential nomination process and the special role New Hampshire plays.
Student Work: It's your life
Posted January 23, 2008; 01:02 p.m.
Isaiah Miller, class of 2011, produced this public service announcement for a high school media class. He is considering concentrating in psychology with a certificate in visual arts.
Aspire: A Plan for Princeton
Posted January 23, 2008; 12:48 p.m.
Princeton launched a comprehensive fundraising campaign to expand its excellence in teaching and research, and to increase the University's impact on a changing world.
Dulles papers released by CIA to Princeton are now online
Posted January 23, 2008; 12:13 p.m.
The Central Intelligence Agency has released to Princeton University some 7,800 documents covering the career of Allen W. Dulles, the agency's longest-serving director, which now can be viewed online.
Flight over Princeton
Posted January 23, 2008; 11:40 a.m.
Take an aerial tour over portions of Princeton University's main campus.
Six named 2008 Scholars in the Nation's Service
Posted January 23, 2008; 09:00 a.m.
The University's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs has selected six students to be the 2008 cohort of Scholars in the Nation's Service, chosen from a pool of Princeton juniors interested in pursuing careers in the U.S. federal government.
Map shows campus polling stations
Posted January 22, 2008; 06:00 p.m.
Residents of the Princeton University campus can find the location of their polling stations for New Jersey's presidential primary through an online chart and map.
Princeton professors, alumnus win math awards
Posted January 22, 2008; 05:54 p.m.
Two Princeton mathematics professors and a 2007 University graduate have been honored by the American Mathematical Society.
Moscato discusses Princeton's leadership in shifting financial aid landscape
Posted January 22, 2008; 10:00 a.m.
Despite the recent publicity about changes in financial aid, there still remain misconceptions about college affordability and the differences among aid programs. Princeton's Director of Financial Aid Robin Moscato answers questions about the changing face of financial aid and Princeton's role in shaping its evolution.
Event honors King's vision for equality
Posted January 21, 2008; 05:29 p.m.
Campus and local community members honored Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision for America as a land of equal opportunity -- and imagined his response to today's heated debates on immigration -- at Princeton's annual King Day ceremony Jan. 21.
Two receive MLK Day Journey Awards
Posted January 21, 2008; 02:50 p.m.
Two members of the Princeton University community were honored Jan. 21 with MLK Day Journey Awards, which recognize efforts to continue the journey to achieve Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision for America. John Templeton, assistant dean for graduate admissions in the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, received the Journey Award for Lifetime Service, and Anna Almore, a member of the class of 2008, received the Journey Award for Special Achievement at the University's King Day ceremony in Richardson Auditorium of Alexander Hall.
Silhavy earns first Novitski Prize
Posted January 20, 2008; 06:13 p.m.
Thomas Silhavy, the Warner-Lambert Parke-Davis Professor of Molecular Biology, has received the first Novitski Prize from the Genetics Society of America.
Courtland Perkins, a leader in aeronautical engineering, dies
Posted January 17, 2008; 01:28 p.m.
Courtland Perkins, a pioneer of modern aircraft stability and control, gifted teacher and international leader in the field of engineering, died Jan. 6. He was 95. Perkins joined the Princeton faculty in 1945 as part of a fledgling aeronautical eng...
Pettit applies philosophy to politics in Spain
Posted January 17, 2008; 11:15 a.m.
In keeping a long-held promise to a man who would become the head of Spain's government, the Princeton political philosopher Philip Pettit has found the rare opportunity to examine how well his theories can be put into practice. This past summer, Pettit delivered on his pledge to come back to Spain at least six months before its next general election to give an assessment directly to the Spanish prime minister, José Luis Zapatero, of how well his government was doing.
Steven Holl Architects chosen to design arts buildings
Posted January 17, 2008; 10:00 a.m.
Steven Holl Architects, an award-winning firm with extensive experience in the arts, has been selected to design the initial academic buildings for Princeton University's new arts and transit neighborhood.
Brochure provides highlights of 10-year Campus Plan
Posted January 17, 2008; 10:00 a.m.
Members of the University community now can get a look at highlights of the final version of the Campus Plan. The comprehensive strategy to guide development through 2016 and beyond was produced over the last two years following thorough analysis of the 380-acre campus by a team of experts and significant involvement by stakeholders.
Adelman to direct new Council on International Teaching and Research
Posted January 16, 2008; 12:00 p.m.
Jeremy Adelman, a scholar of Latin American and world history and chair of the Department of History, has been appointed the inaugural director of Princeton's Council on International Teaching and Research, which was created as part of a series of internationalization initiatives outlined this fall. His appointment is effective immediately.
Princeton sets applications record for fourth year in a row
Posted January 15, 2008; 04:00 p.m.
For the fourth consecutive year, Princeton University set a record for students applying for admission, receiving 20,118 applications for the class of 2012. The number of applicants represents a 6 percent increase over last year's record of 18,942 applications for the class of 2011 and comes even as Princeton marks the completion of its first application cycle after ending its early decision admission option.
Renowned Princeton writers join together to teach one class
Posted January 14, 2008; 01:06 p.m.
In her first semester at Princeton, freshman Megan Leahy had some of the biggest names in literature on the Princeton faculty as her instructors — acclaimed novelists Jeffrey Eugenides, Toni Morrison, Joyce Carol Oates and Edmund White, not to mention world-renowned poets Paul Muldoon and C.K. Williams. And that was just in one class. Leahy is taking "Princeton University Reads," a new course in the English department that offers students the one-of-a-kind experience to hear some of the University's best-known poets and novelists talk about their work.
Students fully engaged in presenting Mozart opera
Posted January 11, 2008; 11:46 a.m.
The Princeton University Department of Music will present a production of Mozart's renowned opera, "The Marriage of Figaro," at 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 12, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 13, in Richardson Auditorium, Alexander Hall. The cast includes some of the University's most talented singers in the principal roles, along with members of the Glee Club as the chorus and a portion of the Princeton University Orchestra.
Nunokawa appointed master of Rockefeller
Posted January 11, 2008; 10:36 a.m.
Professor of English Jeff Nunokawa, who has been serving this year as acting master of Rockefeller College, has been appointed to a full four-year term as master.
Cause of fire under investigation
Posted January 10, 2008; 06:30 p.m.
The cause of a major fire at the College Road apartments on Princeton's campus on Thursday, Jan. 10, is under investigation by the Princeton Fire Department. There were no injuries.
Fire causes building evacuation, road closures
Posted January 10, 2008; 03:22 p.m.
A major fire at the College Road apartments on Princeton's campus prompted the evacuation of the building shortly before 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 10. No injuries have been reported.
Nominations for new management award due Feb. 15
Posted January 10, 2008; 12:59 p.m.
The Office of Human Resources is seeking nominations for the new Donald Griffin '23 Management Award, which is designed for administrators who would like to develop their leadership and management skills. The deadline for nominations is Friday, Feb. 15
Nominations sought for teaching award
Posted January 10, 2008; 12:52 p.m.
The Office of the Dean of the Faculty invites members of the University community to submit letters of nomination for the 2008 President's Award for Distinguished Teaching.
Events honoring Gutman planned, Jan. 19
Posted January 10, 2008; 11:08 a.m.
Two events honoring the life of Robert Gutman, a lecturer in architecture, are being planned for Saturday, Jan. 19.
Powell named director of admission
Posted January 10, 2008; 10:47 a.m.
Logan Powell, who has served in senior admission positions at Bowdoin College and Harvard University, has been appointed director of admission at Princeton. His appointment was effective Dec. 12.
Annual clothing drive set, Jan. 16-23
Posted January 8, 2008; 06:04 p.m.
The University will conduct its annual clothing drive Jan. 16-23 to benefit Dress for Success and Suitably Dressed, two Mercer County organizations that collect "gently used" business attire for men and women.
Science Olympians leverage their knowledge
Posted January 8, 2008; 05:49 p.m.
Andy Le and Richard Chu steadied their wooden craft and carefully loaded its prow with precious cargo -- a raw egg. After some careful adjustments (in which duct tape figured prominently), Le and Chu launched the vehicle -- and held their breath. The craft sailed forward regally, but stopped about 40 centimeters shy of the target (the egg safely intact). Le and Chu, sixth-graders at Hammarskjold Middle School in East Brunswick, were among more than 600 middle school and high school students swarming McDonnell and Guyot halls, Schultz Laboratory and Jadwin Gymnasium Tuesday, Jan. 8, demonstrating their scientific chops and honing their engineering know-how.
PPPL researchers honored
Posted January 7, 2008; 01:31 p.m.
Several researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) have received honors and awards recognizing their contributions to the field.
'Science-on-Saturday' lectures offered
Posted January 7, 2008; 01:18 p.m.
The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory's annual Science-on-Saturday program -- a series of nine talks on topics ranging from computation in astrophysics to collective motion in animal groups -- is scheduled for Jan. 12 through March 15.
New route for heredity bypasses DNA
Posted January 4, 2008; 10:41 a.m.
A group of scientists in Princeton's Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology has uncovered a new biological mechanism that could provide a clearer window into a cell's inner workings.
Letter to the editor of Shreveport Times
Posted January 4, 2008; 10:33 a.m.
This letter to the editor was published in the Jan. 4, 2008, Shreveport Times:
In his opinion piece about "donor intent" (Dec. 26), Frederic Fransen mistakenly identifies the Robertson family members who are suing Princeton University as the party in the case that is seeking to carry out the intent of the donor. In fact, the opposite is true.
Exhibit presents variety of views on family
Posted January 3, 2008; 11:28 a.m.
"What Is Family? Princeton Views," an exhibition of photographs depicting the powerful connective force of family, is on view through Dec. 1 in the Murray-Dodge Hall lobby. The exhibition includes 31 images taken by members of the University community expressing views on family through various configurations and emotions -- including trust, joy, sorrow, silliness, chaos, respect and love. They were selected from among some 140 photographs submitted by Princeton students, faculty and staff.
Five distinguished teachers visiting Princeton this year
Posted January 2, 2008; 11:37 a.m.
Five scholars from around the country have come to Princeton this year as part of the 250th Anniversary Visiting Professorships for Distinguished Teaching program.