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UN I V ER S I T Y O F MAGAZINE
UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
Adventures Abroad
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Contents
Features
28 30 36 40
A New Adventure
Carol Lee Moore enters the world of childrens literature with Taming the Dragon.
By Tamara Chapman
Global Perspectives
Study-abroad students capture their experiences in photos.
By Amber DAngelo Na
Debate Worthy
The Sturm College of Law helps Denver high schoolers see both sides of the story.
By Pat Rooney
Departments
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Editors Note Feedback DU Update 8 News Condoleezza Rice visit 14 Arts Lawrence Argents big red rabbit 17 History Archivist Steve Fisher 20 Sports Basketball season 23 People Jazz singer Donna Wickham 25 Q&A Penrose Library Dean Nancy Allen 27 Academics Living Learning Communities Alumni Connections
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On the cover and this page: A DU contest lets students share their study-abroad photos; read the story on page 30. Cover photo by Erin Greenberg; photo this page by Summer Borowski. Denver Magazine Update University of
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Editors Note
I never studied abroad. As an undergraduate at Colorado State University in the early 1990s, I wasnt even aware I had the option. It was nothing like DU, where most freshmen arrive on campus with the expectation that they eventually will study abroad through DUs Cherrington Global Scholars program, which sends students to another country for advanced study at the same price they would pay for a quarter on campus. Looking at the photos that recent study-abroad students took on their travelssome of which are featured in the Global Perspectives feature that begins on page 30makes me wish I had taken the same opportunity. In April, I had the chance to interview alumni couple Michael (BSBA 08) and Amy (BS 09, MBA 09) Chamberlain-Torres, who in November took the plunge theyd been talking about for years. They quit their jobs, put all their possessions in storage and set off to travel around the world. They told me they both had grown up dreaming of travel, but that their study-abroad experiences at DU really lit the fire. My grandmother was a travel agent, and I remember seeing photographs and trinkets and journals that she had from all her travels when I was growing up, and it always inspired me to go see the world, Michael said. Studying abroad in Chile really made me think that its doablethat I can go out there and explore and the worlds not going to be a scary place but more of an amazing place. As I sit in my office, where I can look out the window and watch Penrose Librarys transformation from 70s artifact to state-of-the-art Academic Commons, where I can see students whacking tennis balls with golf clubs in whats become a favorite springtime sport, and where I can sense the growing excitement about the presidential debate the University will host in October, the DU campus itself seems like a pretty amazing place to me. That students get to add an international experience on top of all that is just more evidence that the University of Denver is dedicated to producing graduates who are globally aware and ready to change the world. You can read my Q&A with Michael and Amy at www.du.edu/chamborres.
MAGAZINE
w w w. d u . e d u / m a g a z i n e
U N I V E R S I T Y Number 4 Volume 12, O F M A G A Z I N E
Kevin A. Carroll
Managing Editor
Greg Glasgow
Senior Editor
Tamara Chapman
Editorial Assistant
Jeffrey Haessler
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Contributors
Janalee Card Chmel (MLS 97) Chuck Corwin Justin Edmonds (BSBA 08) Jack Etkin Valerie Finholm Lisa Marshall Doug McInnis Doug McPherson Pat Rooney Skye Savage Chase Squires (MPS 10)
Editorial Board
Kevin A. Carroll, vice chancellor/chief marketing officer Thomas Douglis (BA 86) Jeffrey Howard, executive director of alumni relations Sarah Satterwhite, senior director of advancement communications Amber Scott (MA 02) Laura Stevens (BA 69), director of parent relations
The University of Denver Magazine (USPS 022-177) is published quarterlyfall, winter, spring and summerby the University of Denver, Division of Marketing and Communications, 2199 S. University Blvd., Denver, CO 80208-4816. The University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) is an Equal Opportunity Institution. Periodicals postage paid at Denver, CO. Postmaster: Send address changes to University of Denver Magazine, University of Denver, University Advancement, 2190 E. Asbury Ave., Denver, CO 80208-4816.
Spring 2012
U N I V E R S I T Y
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MAGAZINE
Feedback
My biggest influences and mentors from my days at DU include my geology professor, Bill Calkin, and, of course, Maynard as well. When I add the DU Alpine Club and my memories of Woodstock West into the mix, my memories and influences are complete. It was a great time in my life, and it started me down the road I have followed ever since. A song keeps coming into my mind whenever I look at the cover and see Maynard on it: Dr. Hook and the Medicine Shows Cover of the Rolling Stone: Wanna see my picture on the cover Wanna buy five copies for my mother Wanna see my smilin face on the cover of the Rolling Stone Thats certainly not Maynards style, but hey, Maynard, you made it!!! Great article for a fine man.
Peter Jones (BA 71) Mountain Street Pottery Camden, Maine
own fledgling abilities, if they existed at all. He UNIVERSITY OF said, Come see me if you I just received the spring MAGAZINE have questions. Well, I 2012 issue of DU magaZen dida lot of them, for zine, and there, on the and the Art of that matterand one day cover, was Maynard Maynard I said, Maynard, I want to Tischler, looking not that pick your brain. much different than he At that point, my questions were did 41 years ago. When I was a student at refined and his answers to them very DU, I had an art requirement to fulfill for forthcoming. While I had many more graduation. Remembering having thrown questions over the years for which I had a small pot in a ninth-grade arts and crafts to approach other people for the answers, class many years earlier, I thought I should both Maynard and I still remember that take the class in pottery. Maynard, who was day when we talked in his office. He was willing to bend many a rule, said it was OK clearly a big influence in the direction of to go right into the wheel class, bypassing my life. hand building with clay. From the moment I have been making my living as a I sat down at the old Soldner kick wheels in potter full time since leaving Denver in the Army barracks studio, I was hooked 1973. Ive been back to see Maynard a apparently for life, or at least so far. number of times over the years and have The article [Zen and the Teaching watched as DU has changed dramatically. of Art] hit Maynards style of teaching, It is certainly not the school I attended way if one wanted to call it that, right on the back when, but then everything else has head. He gave some demonstrations early changed as well. on and then pretty much left us to our
UN I V ER S I T Y O F MAGAZINE
U N I V E R S I T Y M A G A Z I N E
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Royalty identified
Thanks to Jan Eckhardt (BA 58, MS 63), Dick Hewitt (BA 61, MA 64), Norma Jean Grow (BA 57), Joan (Palmer) Ragsdale (BSBA 60) and Steve Meuris (BSBA 60) for contacting the University of Denver Magazine to identify the alumni who appeared in the photo on page 43 of the spring issue. Based on information on the back of the photograph, we erroneously reported that the photo depicted the May Days royalty crowning. It in fact depicts the 1957 Homecoming royalty-crowning event. The Homecoming royalty court members depicted in the photo are, from left to right, Homecoming Queen Barbara Jean (Davis) Grimm (BA 58), Marlys (Nelson) Moodie (BS 58), Meuris and Ragsdale.
I take exception to the chancellors message [Spring 2012] in part saying weve moved from a seemingly endless string of debates among contenders for the Republican nomination. Would he have used the same language describing the Democrats four years ago, or has DU gone from a conservative Methodist campus to an ultra-liberal one?
James Ramsey III (BA 59) Cathedral City, Calif.
must raise $1.65 million. Thats equivalent to about 30 full-ride scholarships. Which is the Universitys priority: a few hours of fame, or helping underprivileged people get a college education? And who had the harebrained idea that Colorado needs another medical school? CUs med school is not full to capacity, and how much would tuition increase to fund a DU med school? Perhaps our Board of Trustees and administration should serve a term in Congress, where they spend money they think grows on trees.
Peter Homburger (BS 50, MBA 56) Wheat Ridge, Colo.
River project. I hope the BLM is aware of the ever-increasing resistance to the project. Lets face it! The proposed curtains over the Arkansas River amount to landscape graffiti! Christo has been undertaking similar projects for the last 50 years, and he is way out of date. The world has drastically changed. Lets all say No! to Christo.
Robert Hench (BFA 48) Pueblo, Colo.
Three cheers for Don Burgess of Fort Worth, Texas. He said in the winter issue [feedback] what needed to be said for a long time. I am afraid that the University of Denver seeks ways to spend money, rather than serve the community. A good example is the hosting of the presidential debate. For a few hours of publicity, DU
Just say no
I was an art student at DU back in the days of Vance Kirkland. Herewith, my sincerest compliments to those at DU who are responsible for creating the lawsuit in federal court against Christos Over the
Send letters to the editor to: Greg Glasgow, University of Denver Magazine, 2199 S. University Blvd., Denver, CO 80208-4816. Or e-mail du-magazine@du.edu. Include your full name and mailing address with all submissions. Letters may be edited for clarity and length.
Why Wait ?
Cynthia took advantage of DUs matching gift program and had her bequest provision in her will matched. With her impact doubled, she was able to create two endowed scholarships for music and theatre students. Her scholarships were set up immediately with DUs matching dollars and her bequest will add to her scholarships later. I have the benefit of seeing the impact on my recipients during my lifetime and know that it will continue for generations to come through my estate gift, says Cynthia. Here are some creative ways to start your legacy with a DU match: Make a gift to DU that provides you or a loved one with income for life through a gift annuity or charitable trust A gift that benefits DU now and allows you to pass more to your heirs later A simple bequest in your will or living trust A gift of an unneeded life insurance policy A gift of real estate or stock If youd like to see your generosity continue for generations, we can help you look at the best options for you and your family.
Office of Gift Planning 303.871.2739 or 800.448.3238 E-mail: gift-planning@du.edu
I wouldnt have been able to attend DU without financial assistance. Because of this, I wanted to give back to students who are like I was, talented but unable to afford tuition at a top notch university. Cynthia Shaw Simonoff, BM 77, Actress/Pianist
For more about DUs matching programs go to: and click on the Double Your Impact link.
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Tuition increase George Casey Albright visit Marijuana panel Advice for parents
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Bob Mesko, director of development in the Office of University Advancement, was one of 11 dancers chosen to perform with AXIS Dance Company April 28 at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts. AXIS has a core group of five dancerssome of whom perform in wheelchairsand chooses another 10 to 11 dancers from the community for each performance. Mesko, who was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2009, is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.
TOP NEWS
By Chase Squires
Event Series
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Condoleezza Rices visit was part of the campus event series taking place prior to the presidential debate on Oct. 3. Visit debate2012.du.edu for a full lineup.
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eflecting on memories ranging from her days as a wayward and lost music major at the University of Denver to the dark days after 9/11, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice enthralled a crowd at her alma mater April 2 in conversation with her former employee, Ambassador Christopher Hill. Rice (BA political science 74, PhD international studies 81) is now an author and full-time professor at Stanford University. She returned to DU to teach a class at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies and to sit on stage at the Cable Center for a public talk with Hill, who once worked in her State Department and is now dean of the Korbel School. Although she came to DU to study music, Rice told some 700 students, faculty and staff members and guests that she realized early in her academic career that she faced a lifetime of teaching teenagers piano lessons or performing in department stores. Somehow, she said, there had to be more.
She found her purpose during an elective class in international relations. She changed majors and embarked on a career that saw her guide U.S. foreign policy from the optimistic early moments of the George W. Bush presidency to the crushing sadness of the 9/11 terror attacks and the uncertainty that followed. Sept. 11 changed everything, she said. Every day after, it was, Dont let it happen again. It was like going into a dark room and there were 12 doors, and someone could jump out of any one. Rice discussed the intricate nature of global negotiations and how theres never a pat answer that can be applied across the board. While the U.S. occupation of Iraq seems to have left that country in a position to move ahead and develop a stable government, the situation in Afghanistan is vastly different, with an impoverished, fractured country that will continue to need help or risk regressing into chaos.
Afghanistan is much harder. It was always going to be harder, she said. Its the fifth poorest country in the world. These people have been bequeathed high mountains and rocks and dirt. Looking forward, Rice said she sees herself now as a professor and author. She said she has no interest in getting into politics or returning to government service. Rice said she remains engaged and involved. She says she favors immigration reform that attracts the worlds brightest to the U.S. And she believes in education reform that includes work with after-school programs through the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and other organizations. She plays benefit piano concerts for music programs in schools, and she works with corporations crafting policies for expansion abroad. And above all, she is a teacher. I love being an academic. I love being at Stanford. As long as theyll have me, Ill be there, she said. I love my life.
Pioneers Top 10
3 Pharmacist 4 Medical Assistant 5 Database Administrator 6 Web Developer 7 Computer Systems Analyst 8 Physical Therapist 9
Computer Programmer
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10 Occupational Therapist
Compiled by Sue Hinkin, executive director of career services at the DU Career Center Data source: U.S. News & World Report
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These Bunsen burner stands, rescued from Science Hall before it was torn down in 1996, are now the foundation for one of Robbs sculptures.
Robb wears this helmet when he helps students with their welding projects.
Robb has been a member of Denvers Pirate Gallery for the past 12 years, and he exhibits there once a year. These are postcard invitations to some of his recent shows. Robb, who has worked at DU for 16 years, uses his workspace as personal studio space on nights and weekends.
Robb likes to hold French sculptor Louise Bourgeois, who didnt receive much recognition until late in life, up to students as an example. Students want it now, he says. [Bourgeois] mentality is greatyou can live a lifetime and still have things to discover.
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800.448.3238
tiredness with Afghanistan and Iraq will make us pull inside, because the world cant function without us. Now a professor at Georgetown University, Albright said she relished her return to DUs campus. I really do feel at home, she said. This is where I grew up. On lighter topics, Albright related how her appearance on the television show Gilmore Girls led to an invitation to compete on TVs Dancing With the Stars (she declined), and she revealed that her new book will be of particular interest to those involved in the Korbel School. The book, Prague Winter (Harper, 2012), recounts her fathers activities from 1937 to 1948, his work in diplomacy and even the secret police files the government kept on him.
Chase Squires
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ARTS
Hare raising
By Tamara Chapman
o one has ever accused Lawrence Argent of being a miniaturist. A renowned sculptor and DU faculty member celebrated for his public art projects, Argent is known nationwide for I See What You Mean, the massive, 40-foot-tall blue bear that peers into the Colorado Convention Center in downtown Denver. In the seven years since it was installed, it has become a tourist attraction and a landmark, as well as a testament to Denvers appetite for the creative and unconventional. Argents most recent public art installation, Leap, places a fleet-footed red rabbit in the ticketing and baggage-claim areas of the newly remodeled Terminal B at Sacramento International Airport in California. The 10,000-pound, 56-foot-long lagomorph which appears to have sprung from the outdoors on a mad dash to a giant suitcase bedecked with a swirling vortexpromises to do for Sacramento what the big blue bruin did for Denver. Argent was given free rein in the $800,000 commission, charged only with creating a signature piece. One of his primary goals, he says, was to conjure something that would capture the wonder and perplexity of the modern journey. Given the generic personality of most airports and the daze in which most travelers negotiate the check-in kiosks and security lines, Argent also wanted to nudgeif not joltthe jet-lagged, stress-boggled traveler back to full consciousness. One is not in a normal state, Argent says of the airport experience. I wanted it to diffuse the cacophony of the energy that exists in the airport. Leap took three months to install. Made of more than 1,400 aluminum triangles, it is suspended from the terminals structural frame by seven cables. The accompanying suitcase, as large as a queen-sized bed, is made of granite. It represents the baggage metaphorical, checked and carry-onthat we bring with us on every journey. Everything in the suitcase, Argent says, is a symbol of who we are.
University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
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Ed Asmus Photography
SEASON AT A GLANCE
Sept. 20 ........ Colorado Symphony Chamber Orchestra Sept. 22 ........ Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Oct. 6 ............. The Capitol Steps Oct. 18 .......... Sphinx Virtuosi Nov. 10 ......... Quatour bne Dec. 6 ............ Cantus: All Is Calm Jan. 1617 .... Der Kaiser von Atlantis Feb. 5............. Stephanie Blythe Feb. 20 .......... Colorado Symphony Chamber Orchestra Feb. 13 .......... Meryl Tankards The Oracle March 21...... Jos Limn Dance April 4 ........... Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain April 25 ........ Strings on Fire May 34 ........ The Mikado June 4 ............ Colorado Symphony Chamber Orchestra
Dan Reid
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hiSTORY
By Greg Glasgow
Living history
W
hen Steve Fisher was first hired to work at DUshortly after graduating from Case Western Reserve University with a dual masters in history and library science he knew next to nothing about life in the Mile High City. I had never been west of the Mississippi at the time, Fisher says. I pictured Denver would be people riding horses and walking around with cowboy hats, and I pictured horses tethered up to posts. I was shocked to find when I got here that people dress pretty much the way they do in the Midwest. But that was the stereotype we had. After 30 years as DUs head curator and archivist, Fisher is much better acquainted with Denverparticularly the area around the DU campus, which is the subject of his new book, A Brief History of South Denver and University Park (The History Press, 2012), which traces the area from the 1890s, when DU relocated to south Denver from its original downtown home, to the present day. Back at the very beginning, [DU founder] John Evans and the Board of Trustees were looking for a place that was going to be like a utopia, Fisher says. They moved out of Denver because Denver was getting run down, and there were brothels and saloons right next to where the University was. They started looking for areas to move to, and they wanted to be away from the city, he continues. They were positive that the city would never encroach that far south. Of course it did; it grew, but I think people dont understand that [University Park] was meant to be this utopian village where life was perfect. In the book Fisher also chronicles the development of neighborhood landmarks such as Chamberlin Observatory, Washington Park and Hilltop Stadium, as well as the construction of the Newman Center and the arrival of light rail. In all, the book charts the evolution of a neighborhood
Wayne Armstrong
that eventually became known as one of Denvers best. Its one of the most desirable places to live in the Denver area, Fisher says. We have one of the lowest crime rates in the city; were halfway between downtown and the Tech Center; and housing prices have maintained, unlike a lot of other areas. For Fisher, the book wasnt just a scholarly historical investigationit also was a way to take a closer look at the part of town hes called home since 1977. A year after he was hired, Fisher and his wife, Kate, moved into a house on the corner of Asbury and High streets that was one of several buildings the University was selling. Hes seen changes to the campus
firsthandincluding the construction of the Ritchie Center, where Fisher can be found most nights of the school year. He has season tickets to DU hockey, mens and womens basketball, mens soccer and mens lacrosse. The Fishers also put both of their children through DU using the tuition benefit available to employees. I was blessed to find my calling and the perfect job at a young age, and to work with a remarkable institution through many highs and lows, ups and downs, Fisher says. Over the years I have developed a huge extended family composed of DU faculty, administration, staff, students, alumni and retirees. We all share a love of this crazy and magical place.
University of Denver Magazine Update
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Law school ranked in U.S. News & World Reports top 100
The University of Denver Sturm College of Law took a big leap in the U.S. News & World Report annual rankings in March, bolstering its place among the nations top-tier law schools with five specialty programs selected for special recognition. The publications Americas Best Graduate Schools survey, released March 10, ranks the Sturm College of Law at No. 69 in the country, tied with Seton Hall University, the University of Cincinnati, the University of Miami, the University of New Mexico, the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. DU previously was ranked 77th. In addition, DUs trial advocacy program is ranked 11th in the country, while the clinical training program ranks 12th, up five positions from last year and ahead of the University of Michigan and Harvard University. The part-time law degree program is ranked the 13th best in the country (identical to last year), and U.S. News ranks the legal writing program 16th in the country. Sturms tax law program is ranked 21st. It is a good year for Denver Law, says Sturm College of Law Dean Martin Katz. Katz says the rankings reflect an ongoing commitment to providing relevant, rigorous programs for law students. The University is seeing the benefit of adding faculty and improving student-faculty ratios. It also is seeing innovative new bar-passage programs pay off with a steady climb in passage rates. We are gratified that we have moved up in the U.S. News rankings. This move recognizes the substantive changes weve made in the course of implementing our strategic plan, with a focus on producing graduates who are practice-ready and clientready, Katz says. We are particularly pleased with our assessment scores, as they are notoriously the hardest to move and are a testament to our reputation among our peers both in academia and within the legal profession. The Graduate School of Social Work also rose in the U.S. News rankings, moving from 36 to 26 on the list of the nations best master of social work programs. U.S. News & World Report ranks law and other graduate programs, incorporating expert opinion and statistical data collected on more than 1,200 programs.
Chase Squires
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Cathy Grieve
Cathy Grieve is a University of Denver alumna (MA 75, PhD 79), parent of three DU graduates, a faculty member and an administrator. She has participated on many committees, spearheaded many successful DU-wide endeavors and served in many volunteer capacities. Most people on campusand even in the broader Denver communityknow of her work and passion. Thus, it comes as no surprise that Grieve is this years Distinguished Service to the University Award recipient. The award was presented at the Founders Day celebration in March. Im really humbled by this, she says. I will accept it graciously on behalf of everyone who has been part of my life at the University, personally, academically and professionally. Grieve spent more than 30 years of her DU career as a faculty member in the School of Communication, where she also administered a robust internship program through which she placed some 75 students a year in positions across the country. Her students interned for media outlets including The New York Times and CNN, in addition to public relations agencies, national and international nonprofits and government agencies. As a gifted teacher and adviser, Cathy was a very important mentor to me, says Margaret Thompson, associate professor in the Department of Media, Film & Journalism Studies. The students also loved her and were constantly flocking to her office. In 2005, when Grieve was asked to serve in a different capacityas director of the Office of Special Community Programsshe went where her university needed her most. Then, in 2010, she was asked to serve as executive director of conferences, events and special programs. She again answered the call. In this newest capacity, Grieve oversees summer conferencing and internal and external events and is on the steering committee for the upcoming presidential debate. Thompson says Grieve is very missed in her department. Among many things, we greatly miss her positive energy and wonderful sense of humor in the halls of our building, she says. I have no doubt that the University of Denver is a stronger and higher quality institution as a result of Cathys dedication and service. Grieve insists that her commitment to DU is simply her way of giving back to a community that has empowered her to live her best life. I came to DU to earn a masters and then a doctorate, and to hone my skills as an educator, Grieve says. The University has always been very supportive of me personally, and of my work, and I always felt that I had the opportunity to do it all. I always will be very grateful for the opportunities that DU has given to me, she says.
Janalee Card Chmel
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SPORTS
By Pat Rooney
Stellar season
here is no reason to play the What if? game when looking back on the mens basketball season of 201112. The University of Denver Pioneers recorded the most wins in a season in their 89 years of Division I history. DU was electric at homea trait that is becoming increasingly routine under head coach Joe Scottand provided one of the programs all-time highlights with a nationally televised victory against league-leading Middle Tennessee at Magness Arena. Nevertheless, there were just enough missed opportunities to leave the Pioneers ruminating over what could have been. Three overtime losses and another late one-point heartbreaker on the road left DU with enough blemishes to lose luster in the eyes of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) selection committee. And, in the end, an otherwise healthy season was nullified by a critical, illtimed injury during a wide-open Sun Belt Conference tournament. Ultimately, the short-handed Pioneers were eliminated in 20
University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
the semifinals of the teams final appearance in the Sun Belt tournament. The disappointing finale to an outstanding season marked the end of the career for one of the programs all-time greats, Brian Stafford (pictured), and also began the build-up for what should be another season of high expectations as the Pioneers move into the Western Athletic Conference for the 201213 campaign. It was the best season in school history, and weve taken a major step forward, Scott says. You have to feel good about that, just like everyone has good reason to be upset how the season ended in disappointment. The disappointing thing for us is we werent at full strength for the Sun Belt tournament. It just goes to showyou can win 22 games, have a good RPI and good wins, and in the end everything is tenuous. I would say we had a great season, but we still werent very lucky. It was junior Chase Hallam who suffered the key injury. Bothered by back
trouble down the stretch, Hallam missed the regular season finale and DUs victory against South Alabama in the SBC tourney. He remained on the sidelines during the Pioneers semifinal round loss against Western Kentucky, depriving DU of one of its top all-around performers. Stafford and sophomore Chris Udofia, the teams co-leaders in scoring, were among the individual stars for the Pioneers. Amazingly, Stafford not only played in a program-record 124 games, but he started every one of them. He finished his career with 1,586 points, good for fourth all-time on the DU scoring list, and his 264 threepointers rank him third in school history. To not even get an NIT invite, its kind of frustrating when you look at some of those missed opportunities, Stafford says. At the same time, it was encouraging to see the level of play get so much better. Much higher than when I came in as a freshman. That means a lot to us seniors. We wanted to leave the program in a better place than when we started.
PiONEER UPDATES
HOCkEy The Pioneers hockey team reached the NCAA Tournament for the fifth consecutive year after a stirring late-season surge that included three consecutive overtime wins. Three DU players signed with NHL teamssophomore forward Jason Zucker with the Minnesota Wild, junior center Drew Shore (pictured) with the Florida Panthers and sophomore forward Beau Bennett with the Pittsburgh Penguins. SWIMMING In the pool, DUs mens and womens swim programs both captured their second consecutive Sun Belt Conference championships. The womens squad won seven events in the Sun Belt Conference finals, and the mens team took home a whopping 11 SBC titles, an effort that helped coach Brian Schrader land the SBC Coach of the Year award. WOMENS BASkEtBAll The womens basketball team suffered a disappointment similar to the mens squad, losing to Florida International in the first game of the SBC tournament after a 19-win campaign. After head coach Erik Johnson departed for a new job at Boston College, former Auburn University associate head coach Kerry Cremeans became the teams new leader in April. WOMENS lACrOSSE The womens squad won a record 12 straight games before losing to Stanford at the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation Womens Lacrosse Championship in April. MENS lACrOSSE After beating Duke April 27 as part of the Whitmans Sampler Mile High Classic at Sports Authority Field, the Pioneers earned an at-large berth in the NCAA Tournament, where they lost to Loyola in the quarterfinal round. WOMENS GOlF After winning their ninth straight Sun Belt championship in April, the Pioneers were selected to take part in the 2012 NCAA West Regional Championshiptheir 11th consecutive NCAA Regional appearancein May.
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PARENT TO PARENT
DU Athletics
Chuck Corwin and his wife, Lisa, live in Lone Tree, Colo. Their daughter Katie is a sophomore studying biology and a member of Gamma Phi Beta sorority.
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PEOPLE
onna Wickhams musical career is hitting some high notes. Last fall she released two CDs in one month, and both are getting rave reviews. Wickham (BM 00, MM 03), a DU alumna who heads up the vocal jazz program at the Lamont School of Music, celebrated the release of a CD by her classical vocal quartet, Firesign, on Oct. 7. She followed that with Myth and Memory, a jazz album featuring her own compositions, on Oct. 30. Denver classical radio station KVOD called the Firesign release one of the best albums of 2011. And Ellen Johnson, a reviewer for Jazz History Online, describes Myth and Memory as a mystical debut that will take your senses for a spin while tossing your emotions in multiple directions. Wickham (pictured at the piano) describes the Firesign CD as a mix of Renaissance and modern styles: Its choral, but its unusual because it was done by a quartet, with an intimate feel. She calls Myth and Memory a type of fusion between many different musical and literary influences, including jazz, classical and folk. It has some concepts and ideas you dont usually see in jazz albums. She wrote one song set to work by Russian poet Anna Akhmatova, whose compositions often testified to the contradictions and outrages of life under Soviet premier Josef Stalin. Her work gave me a strong response, Wickham says. I felt a kind of kinship with her. Wickham describes the overarching theme of the CD as complex. Its about the search for beauty and about surviving the ugliness, and thats beautiful. I think every Russian, and any human whos lived an interesting life, can identify with thatthe simple act of surviving is beautiful. Theres a great, beautiful sense of gratitude having survived. Despite the praise for her work and the joy Wickham says she gets from making music, she says teaching also is intensely satisfying.
Anyone who knows me knows I adore my studentswe have a blast together. Im absolutely nuts about teaching, says Wickham, who coaches three vocal jazz combos and helps with advising for jazz students in addition to teaching private jazz voice lessons. Even the worst day of teaching is something I still love. Im continually thinking how deliriously happy I am when Im teaching. Wickham grew up in Fort Morgan, Colo., and was born into a musical family. Her dad, who attended DU before enlisting in the U.S. Navy with his two brothers to fight in World War II, was a professional musician who formed a dance band in the early 1930s. I remember music always being a part of everyday life. As soon as I could crawl up
on the piano bench, I did, and I fell in love with the piano, she says. I remember listening to Tchaikovsky, dancing and twirling around the living room. Her parents learned she had perfect pitch as a child. Id be humming a tune, and Id go to the piano to accompany myself in the perfect key. Wickham shares her Denver home with Gizmo, a little black cat. Shes head of my record company, Gizmo Records, the singer says. Shes part of the empire. If Im making music or teaching lessons, shes on the piano bench and commenting on the activities, meowing and purring. And if we start to make music thats not good, she leaves the room. >>www.donnawickham.com
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Justin Edmonds
Summer quarter
Total number of credits taken
DU by the Numbers
5,012 173 26
Number of students
Compiled by Jennifer Karas, associate provost for undergraduate academic programs Data from summer 2011 term for traditional undergraduate students not including the Womens College or University College For summer class information visit du.edu/summer
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Q&A
he new Academic Commons at Penrose Library will debut in early 2013. (Follow construction progress at du.edu/commons). Nancy Allen, dean and director of the library since 1992, looks ahead to the big day. Why is the new library called an academic commons? The name was chosen because the building will be home to an array of high-traffic student- and faculty-support services anchored by the library. These support services are not only located in the library, but are deeply collaborative in meaningful ways. Just two examples: The librarys Research Center and the Writing Programs Writing Center both help students move through the continuum from inquiry to expression involved in writing one of the more than 6,000 papers produced each year by DU students. And the library works closely with the Office of Teaching and Learning to help faculty provide digital content in their courses in ways that enhance learning.
Wayne Armstrong
Will lovers of the traditional libraryof book stacks and quiet spacesfeel at home in the new building?
Q A
Q A
Absolutely! We will provide two new deep quiet study rooms and more quiet study seats throughout the space. Handcrafted study carrels and sophisticated color palettes will help students find the focus and concentration they need. We will have a large book collection available for browsingnearly 40,000 linear feet of the most-used books will be housed on the lower level. Thats almost 7.5 miles of books to support browsing, with another 70,000 linear feet of other types of publications, including journals, government documents and archives, available for speedy delivery upon request.
in re-envisioning the library, what was the biggest challenge confronting you and your staff?
What has you most excited about the new Academic Commons? We simply cannot wait to see how students respond to the building. New library buildings at other institutions have more than doubled the number of students using the space. We expect increased visits by students coming for help with academic projects, to meet and work with classmates on assignments, to find that perfect quiet location for individual reflection, or to go to an academic event. Everything students and faculty will do in the new building will support learning outcomes.
We need to support current scholarly and research practices while building a dynamic and flexible infrastructure for the future through good technology choices, appropriate furniture and a combination of group and individual study rooms. The contemporary library supports use of both digital and tangible resources, and that balancing of past, present and future is quite a challenge.
Many of us are fond of Penroses modern furnishings. Will the new building incorporate any of our old favorites?
Q A
The midcentury modern design will be visible in the new furniture plan, which is based on re-use of over 4,000 furniture and office items. In addition, we plan to purchase and build many new pieces to create a beautiful and comfortable environment.
University of Denver Magazine Update
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ONE TO WATCH
Haley Johnson,
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ACADEMiCS
By Amber DAngelo Na
world they want to live in and making that world happen, he says. One of the most important features of the course is that it provides the materials for the conversations that take place outside of the course, Tiedemann continues. [Students] go back to their dorm hall and theyre still talking about things and working things out together. Participating students also take part in activities throughout the year, including dinners, teach-ins and seminars, as well as a team-building fall retreat, excursions to plays and films, and volunteer projects at
Urban Peak and the Denver GrowHaus. We want them to understand that as students and scholars, they are participating in the world, not merely observing or interpreting it, so they take responsibility for themselves as people actively involved in the world in a consequential way, Tiedemann says. The biggest thing Ive learned is that theres support out there, says student Makayla Cisneros. Especially when youre interested in social issues. It can feel like such a lonely battle, but its really encouraging to see that there are other people who are passionate about that and it helps you feel that youre not alone. I feel like my DU experience would not be the same without it. Social justice students represent a variety of majors and tend to be more racially, ethnically and socioeconomically diverse than the general DU student population, says program coordinator Catherine Orsborn. It doesnt cost extra to be in an LLC, but there is an essay-based application due the April prior to freshman year. We look for students who have different perspectives, Orsborn says. The point is to learn to move forward while working with people who see things differently than you and figuring out how to still be activists, because thats the reality of working in this world: Youre going to be with people who dont necessarily have the same outlook and approach. I think no matter what they end up doing, that will really benefit them in the future. >>www.du.edu/livinglearning
University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
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Carol Lee Moore enters the world of childrens literature with Taming the Dragon.
By Tamara Chapman
A New Adventure
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Wayne Armstrong
s a youngster born and raised in a town short on cloud-shrouded peaks, enchanting valleys and dragon lairs, Carol Lee Moore (attd. 54) discovered the marvels that lay between book covers. When you grow up in Grand Island, Neb., there really isnt much to do in the summer except read, she explains. And read she did, wending her way through the Dewey Decimal system and embarking on enticing adventures through childrens classics, fantasy tales and mysteries. Today, on the cusp of 80, Moore is still an avid lover of books and stories. Shes also a newly published author, the proud creator of Taming the Dragon (Crown Peak Publishing, 2012), a childrens story with a message for her grandchildrens generation: No matter what life tosses your way, stay true to yourself. The tale follows the adventures of 13-year-old Verity, who is transported to the magical kingdom of Terra Cotta via an unfinished story and a schoolhouse door. There, she befriends a fledgling knight, thwarts the evil twin of a friendly sorcerer and tames the dragon in question. The book reflects many of Moores preoccupationsher love of childrens literature, her belief in guiding principles, her affection for the imagination and her love of words. I have always loved words, she says. I get so many words in my head, and sometimes I have to get rid of them, and sometimes I shake my head and all the words fall into a story. Her affinity for words shows up in her choice of character namesSir Sapling, Master Mandrake, King Sagacious. Her reverence for them is reflected in adamant refusal to traffic in contractions. Why dilute the impact of two perfectly powerful words do and not for exampleby inserting a meddling apostrophe? Moore began writing seriously after the death of her soulmatehusband Ronin 2003. A former Pioneers golf star, a renowned Colorado businessman and a longtime member of the DU Board of Trustees, Ron Moore (BS 54) succumbed to cancer not long after the couple moved into a dream house they designed together. Had he lived
just a little longer, the Moores would have celebrated 50 years of marriage. Heartbroken over the loss of her husband, Moore initially found herself too distracted and distressed to put words on paper. In time, however, she found solace in writing. I finally realized, she recalls, that instead of just moping around, feeling sorry for myself, Id better do something. That something turned into Training for Widowhood, a compilation of musings and memories that serves as a guide to grief and as a tribute to her husband. We were partners, two individuals who had blended their separate identities into a greater whole, Moore writes in the volume. We were challenged and stimulated by life. Once Training for Widowhood was assembled and stitched between covers, Moore continued to pursue the writers life, filling her desk drawer with essays, poems and childrens stories. She found that writing offered the same escape that reading did. It also provided a way to share some of her values and some of the things she learned from her husband. Verity, for example, takes a page from Ron Moores primer when she learns that she can do anythingscale a peak, leap a chasm, tame a dragonif only she puts her mind to it. That message resonated with Sammie Chergo, head coach of the DU womens golf team. Chergo acquired her copy of Taming the Dragon at a winter book signing held on the DU campus. The next morning, I got up and read her book, and I was so touched, Chergo recalls. The book had barely settled into her consciousness when she decided to share it with the golf team. Verity is a strong female lead, she says, noting that young girls seldom take center stage in fantasy books. In addition, Veritys values are worth adopting, especially in the middle of a competitive season with plenty of hurdles. Its our theme for this season. Were taming other golf teams; were taming the tournament, Chergo says. (The theme
served the team wellin April it claimed its ninth straight Sun Belt Conference crown.) For Moore, who was awarded an honorary doctorate of humane letters by DU in 2005, writing the story came easily and naturally. I had read so many books that my brain was full of a lot of things that I could call on, she says. If writing the story was a breeze, publishing it was anything but. After consulting with book designer and editor Ann Ramsey, Moore decided to bypass the publishing houses, if only to avoid the dumbing-down and marketing ploys they might impose. One of the first things I figured out was that once I sold it, I would have nothing more to do with it. It would no longer be mine, she explains. She certainly didnt want to pick up her labor of love and discover a plague of contractions or prose devoid of multisyllable words. Nor did she want to encounter illustrations that didnt reflect her minds eye. To bring her vision to life, she hired Judy Graese, a Denver-based illustrator, dancer and costume designer with several classicsinspired childrens titles to her credit. Graeses illustrations are scrupulously true to the text: Verity sports a blue pinafore and a long brown braid; the sorcerer/schoolmaster is suitably mysterious; and the depictions of the dragon hint at its inner kitten. To date, Moore has had mostly favorable reviews from readers. One suggested that Moore produce a sequelan idea shes entertaining. But for now, shes hoping the book finds a following and inspires kids to confront peaks and chasms with confidence. Taming the Dragon is available from Crown Peak Publishing, the Bookies, Inklings Bookstore, Happy Canyon Flowers, the Papery, the Gnomes Nook and the Lark. Moores agent, Donna Jackson, expects the book will be available at the Tattered Cover this summer. Moore plans to donate all proceeds to charity. >>tamingthedragon.net
University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
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Global Perspectives
By Amber DAngelo Na (BA 06, MPS 12)
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rom the Great Wall of China to the Eiffel Tower, from elephants in Thailand to sea turtles in the Great Barrier Reef, DU students have seen it all. And theyve captured it all with visual mementos documenting their study-abroad adventures. Each year since 2003, students returning from studying abroad have submitted their prized photographs for a chance to win a photo contest hosted by the Office of International Education. The contest gives students an opportunity to share their transformational global experiences with the DU community when they return to campus. The Study Abroad Photo Contest is one of the most fun things we get to do during the year, says Paula Knutson, operations coordinator for the Office of Internationalization. We see them so much before they go abroad, but when they get back thats what we see, is their pictures. DU ranks third in the nation in the percentage of undergraduate students who study abroad from U.S. higher education institutions, according to the Institute of International Educations 2011 Open Doors Report. In 200910, 824 DU undergraduate students studied abroad, boosting DUs ranking by one spot over the previous year. Through the Universitys Cherrington Global Scholars program, eligible students can study abroad for the same price they would pay for tuition and fees while on campus. DU also helps students pay for travel-related costs, such as transportation and fees for visa applications and insurance. DU currently offers more than 150 study-abroad programs in 58 countries. Deciding to study abroad is the best decision I ever made, says junior communication studies and French major Merrill Pierce, who studied in Senegal in fall 2011 and who received honorable mentions for two of her travel photos. The hospitality of the Senegalese people, the vibrancy of the countrys art and music, and the overall richness of the culture deeply impacted how I see our world.
Left: Senior Victoria Lavington took this photo of fishermen on a pier in Sochi, Russia. Lavington, a double major in French and international studies, studied abroad in St. Petersburg through the American Council of Teachers of Russian. Above right: Senior international business major Scott Larson finished his study-abroad trip to the Burgundy School of Business in Dijon, France, by joining some American friends for a trip to Morocco. We went on a camel ride through some small villages and towns, but we werent allowed to photograph in the villages, Larson says. This was one of my favorite pictures from the camel ride tour. It was definitely an eye-opening experience. Right: Junior Merrill Pierce joined her host family in Senegal for a sabar dance in the village of Mouit. My host familys coiffeuse [hairdresser] taught me how to move like a true Senegalese, says the double major in communication studies and French. This photograph is the moment my apprehensions about dancing in the Senegalese style evaporated, after the coiffeuse took my hands and pulled me into the circle to dancecomplete freedom.
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Above left: Senior international studies major Viki Eagle, who studied at Project Dharamsala in New Delhi, India, took this photo at the parliament building in New Delhi. Below left: Junior music major Victoria Vanest took this photo of Big Ben and the giant Ferris wheel known as the London Eye during her study-abroad trip to England. The sun made rare appearances in London, she says, and these colorful clouds were a very unusual sight. Right: Junior Michelle Woodruff captured this moment in Moscows Red Square as the city prepared to celebrate Christmas and New Years. Woodruff, a double major in Russian and international studies, studied in Moscow through the American Council of Teachers of Russian. Below: Vanessa Teck, a senior intercultural communications and digital media studies major, took this photo of Da Latknown as the City of Flowersduring her study-abroad trip to Vietnam and Cambodia.
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Facing page, top: Senior international studies major Hoa Quynh Do, who studied abroad in Tokyo, captured these musicians during a trip to the island of Miyajima. Facing page, bottom: Junior ecology and biodiversity major Rebecca Hollmann helped bridge the language barrier during her trip to Rhotia, Tanzania, where she and a local boy read an English-Swahili translation guide together. Above left: Junior Jessica Linder and some of the new friends she made while studying art in Italy hopped a train in the wee hours of the morning to visit the quaint seaside town of Viareggio. The beach was essentially empty when we arrived, says the biology and psychology double major. I wanted to capture the colorful yet serene setting my friends and I were getting ready to enjoy. Above: International studies masters student Erin Greenberg took this picture after a wedding procession in South India. I love the juxtaposition of the large elephant towering over the seemingly tiny man, she says. Greenberg studied in Dharamsala through DUs service learning program in December 2011. Left: During her study-abroad adventure in Africa, junior finance major Ella Kerr discovered that in the floodplain of Botswanas Okavanga Delta, the easiest way to get around is by makoroa wooden boat steered and propelled by a long pole. These polers know how to navigate their way around the intersecting waterways, she says, being sure to avoid hippos and alligators along the way. University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
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Behind the
Stories
The
Scars
Sociologists Peter and Patricia Adler take an unprecedented look at the world of self-injury.
By Lisa Marshall
or 23-year-old Rachel, it all started in high school. After a painful week in which her group of friends turned against her and began starting rumors about her, the angstfilled teen stayed home from school, retreated to her room, and began to slowly drag the ragged tip of a coat hanger across her tender forearm. The sensation surprised her. It felt so much better to sit there and scratch myself than to have my heart broke and crying, she recalls. It eased me. Rachels vivid account of her introduction to selfinjuryaka cuttingis just one of many brutally honest, illuminating interviews contained in The Tender Cut: Inside the Hidden World of Self-Injury (New York University Press, 2011), by University of Denver sociology Professor Peter Adler and his wife, Patricia Adler, a sociology professor at the University of Colorado-Boulder. The culmination of 11 years of researchincluding 150 in-person interviews and some 40,000 email and chatroom correspondencesthe book offers an unflinching, at times extremely hard-to-read glimpse into the littleunderstood practice of self-injury. Studies show that as many as 4 percent of the overall population and one in five adolescents have hurt themselves intentionally. Of those, 72 percent cut themselves, 35 percent burn themselves, 10 percent pull their own hair, and 8 percent have broken a bone intentionally. But while prior research has been able to get at the frequency and methods behind the cutting craze, no one has been able to answer the nagging question: Why?
The lay public knows a lot less about this than other issues, like anorexia or drug use, which have become part of the landscape of middle-America adolescent culture, Peter Adler says. People think it is just this bizarre behavior, but no one understood the motivation. Unlike previous researchers, who looked to psychiatric patients or emergency room populations for answers, the Adlers took a broader approach, reaching out to everyone from middle-aged housewives to straight-A college students to teenage rape survivors. Their goal was to paint a nonjudgmental picture of self-injury through a sociological lens. They came away with some controversial conclusions: that self-injury is more coping mechanism than harbinger of serious mental illness or suicidal tendencies; that it is more sociological phenomenon than dangerous addiction; that it is far more widespread than previously believed; and thatwhile the Adlers stop short of condoning or recommending itit may even, in certain moments, have its benefits. The psycho-medical community had largely defined the behavior as something that white, female adolescents with serious psychological disorders like borderline personality disorder do, says Patricia Adler, noting that not long ago self-injurers were considered suicidal and often were hospitalized. We challenge that definition profoundly, with the biggest data set of noninstitutionalized people in existence. Many, many people are out there using this as a mechanism for bridging difficult situations and then moving on. It helps them feel better.
University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
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he husband-and-wife research and writing team met in 1969 at Washington University in St. Louis, where they took a criminology class together and instantly fell in love with the subject. They soon made a strange request of their professor: Could they write their final exam together? He obliged, and from that point on they wrote as a team. Our early professors used to say, You need to establish an independent voice. But we stuck to our guns and tried this very dangerous experiment instead, and it has worked out very well for us, says Peter, seated in his office beneath a bookshelf crammed with some of the roughly 25 books and hundreds of research papers the two have co-authored over the years. For one book, Dealing (Columbia University Press, 1985), they spent six years immersed in the lives of high-end drug traffickers in California. For another, Peer Power (Rutgers University Press, 1998), they spent eight years exploring bullying, peer pressure and other harsh realities in the worlds of pre-adolescents. Their central research interest always has been deviance in society, and both teach popular courses with the same name. In the mid-1990s, the couple began to hear about cutting from their students. At that time, it was a loner, secretive activity. People rarely talked about it, Peter says. One day a 16-year-old family friend came to Peter with a dilemma. She wanted to go to Dartmouth, and she had straight As, but she couldnt pass gym class. As it turned out, she was ashamed to wear shorts because her legs were riddled with self-inflicted scars. A light bulb went on, Peter says. The Adlers had their next research project.
y the time they launched their study, it was 2000, and the Internet was full of chat rooms where self-injurers shared stories not only on how to quit, but, more often, on how and why they cut. It was transformed from a loner, deviant activity into a fullfledged subculture, but unlike in other subcultures we had studied, most of these people would never meet face-to-face, Peter says. Posters freely discussed the grisly details of what tools to use, how deep to go, and where on the body was least likely to scar or be discovered. Some shared their techniques for fending off infection. Id have my Band-Aids and my paper towels and my Neosporin, and Id put a new blade on my X-Acto knife. It was like preparing for surgery, explained one subject quoted in The Tender Cut. The news was filled with stories about celebrity cutters, including singer Marilyn Manson (who reportedly self-injured on stage), British comedian Russell Brand (who allegedly lacerated his
chest and arms with glass), and actors Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie, who reportedly had marked pivotal life experiences with the sharp blade of a knife. In a famous BBC television interview, Princess Diana revealed that she, too, self-injured. When no one listens to you, or you feel no one is listening to you, all sorts of things start to happen, Diana said. You have so much pain inside yourself that you try and hurt yourself on the outside because you want help. While some celebrity cutters also suffered from serious mental health problems, drug addictions or eating disorders, the Adlers discovered less pathological motivations among many of their subjects. Mike, a scruffy-looking college student who always wore a stocking cap, started cutting at age 14 after a girlfriend broke up with him. I just need something where I could vent and rage without having any outward signs so that nobody could tell, he told the Adlers. Amy, 19, started burning herself with a heated-up screw, largely out of rebellion, at age 14. I was into the honors classes and I was a goody two-shoes, so I determined to be all-out bad. Jane, a high school cheerleader, said she did it for the physical release: I would have this intense emotion of anxiety and panic and pressure and frustration, and when I did it, it was a release. I was reorganized and I could breathe again. Other interviewees said they did it for the physical endorphin rush. (Research has shown that repeated self-injury results in a rush of opiate-like substances in the body, which helps deaden the pain and ignites a high.) Some who had shut down emotionally due to tragic life events said cutting made them at least feel something. For others, selfinjury was an act of control at a time of life when they felt they had none. Often, they are not going through anything that you and I didnt go through, Peter says. They are just choosing a different method for coping with it.
endy Lader, clinical director of the St. Louis-based self-injury treatment program S.A.F.E. Alternatives, agrees that selfinjury affects a far broader demographic than once believed, and that it is in fact a coping mechanism. But she says certain subsets are more prone to start cutting than others. Its often about emotional disregulation, she says. Kids who self-injure seem tofor whatever reasonfeel things more intensely, and they dont know how to modulate that intense emotion. These are desperate, unhappy kids.
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She stresses that there is no safe or healthy amount of selfinjury and fears that characterizing it as faddish, or normalizing it, paints the wrong picture. Yes it helps them feel better, just like heroin, but it is not solving the underlying problem, she says. And, like with an addiction, they often need more and more for the same effect, so it can get dangerous. If I were the parent of a child who was self-injuring, I would intervene immediately and get help from a therapist. Daniel Cress, a professor of sociology at Western State College of Colorado, says he sees the book as neither condoning nor condemning self-injury, but rather offering a much-needed, nonjudgmental perspective. It is a courageous book, Cress says. Instead of playing it safe, taking the party line and condemning it whole cloth, they have taken something that seems super abnormal and tried to make sense of it. Thats what great sociological research is all about. Cress liked the book so much it is now required reading for students in his introduction to sociology class. Some students completely freaked out about what they read. Others felt that, at
last, they could understand why some of their friends engaged in self-injury. The students with the strongest reactions to the book were those who came up to Cress after class to confess that they, too, had self-injured. They loved it, Cress says. They felt like, finally, somebody gets it. Peter says he and Patricia have been overwhelmed by the thank-yous they have received from current and former selfinjurers. These people can offer this up to their loved ones and say, This is me. This is how I feel. A lot of them just cant articulate it themselves. Their advice to someone who finds a loved one cutting? Do not freak out or overreact, Patricia says. Instead, sit down and have a talk with him or her about whats going on in his or her life. Check out some Internet chat rooms to get a better sense of why people do it. And offer the support of a counselor who specializes in self-injury. Above all, says Peter, keep in mind that this is just the symptom. This is not the problem. For a long time it has been treated as the problem.
University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
Wayne Armstrong
Often, they are not going through anything that you and I didnt go through. They are just choosing a different method for coping with it.
Peter Adler
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The Sturm College of Law helps Denver high schoolers see both sides of the story.
Debate
O
peaceful reverie.
on a sunny March afternoon, spring is in full bloom. The surrounding neighborhood basks in the tranquility, with little more than a few chirping birds disturbing the Inside the school, however, a fury of focused conflict From one end of the cafeteria to the otherand,
and passionate persuasion reigns. later, in classrooms that otherwise would have been
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University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012 University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
W orthy
silently hibernating on this fine Saturday afternoon argumentative rhetoric echoes off every wall. And in the case of these particular teenage students, their arguments expand throughout the universe. One student seizes control of the podium and begins to argue that it is in the best interest of the United States government to funnel as much money and as many resources as possible into space exploration. A challenger takes the spotlight to refute that notion, explaining how such resources could be better used in other, more productive ventures. Yet another student notes how the wonders of the galaxy might eventually unlock the keys to such mysteries as the cure for cancer, only to have that viewpoint shot down with the piercing reality that in this day and age, such frivolous spending is grossly irresponsible.
University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
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N T
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Neither side is ever right. Conversely, neither side is ever wrong. Inside this forum it is the spirit of the debates that serves as the most important aspect of the proceedings. This is the Denver Urban Debate League. Formed in 2008 as the local chapter of the National Association of Urban Debate Leagues, the Denver Urban Debate League (DUDL) entered into a formal partnership with the University of Denver Sturm College of Law last year, expanding the reach and capabilities of an organization that brings a competitive, intellectually challenging outlet to Denver Public Schools students who had never previously enjoyed such options. You really have an opportunity to get to know students in a different way outside of the classroom setting, says Jessica Clark, the Denver leagues executive director. Youre watching them engage in some pretty deep issues. This year, theyre debating whether the United States government should significantly increase space exploration. They really are engaging in waysand becoming advocates in ways that they wouldnt necessarily have in the classroom. Weve had students in the program who are now juniors at NYU or sophomores at DU who are all excelling, and that is wonderful to see.
I traveled around the country... and spent years where I never saw anybody at the debates who looked like me.
Rico Munn
The genesis of the DUDL happened when Roberto Corrada, the Sturm Colleges Chair in Modern Learning, attended a seminar where one of the featured speakers was the founder of the Chicago chapter of the Urban Debate League. A former collegiate debater at George Washington University, Corrada immediately envisioned a similar program thriving in Denver, and he set to the task of making that dream a reality. Two of Corradas first phone calls were to Rico Munn and Casie Collignon, both decorated alums of the Sturm College of Law. The trio formed part of the founding board of directors for the DUDL and have remained instrumental in the organizations rapid growth. I talked to Rico and Casie very early on, and we started talking about how to do it and how to set it up, Corrada says. But it wasnt until the National Association of Urban Debate
University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
Leagues decided they wanted to pay attention to new cities that they came out and talked to us. They had a model and we started to set that up. Corradas experience in debate gives him insight into the myriad benefits a debate league can bestow upon a student. Not only are there the obvious intellectual challenges, but competing in a debate arena often helps hone other academic and social skills. Anyone will tell you practicing public speaking only builds confidence, and that translates to a lot of different things, Corrada says. But its also the inherent confidence that they can learn things that they didnt take part in before. And they can do it fairly quickly. In a debate round, you have very limited time to understand and grasp and respond to very complex things. And thats very daunting when you start. But then after you do it a couple times, you realize, I can do this. And so theres no reason I cant do this in other aspects of my life. The official partnership between the National Association of Urban Debate Leagues and the Sturm College of Law has paid off for the law school and for participating high school debaters. DU law students often serve as volunteer mentors and debate tournament officials, providing them with practical experience while also fulfilling a portion of their community-
service curriculum. The high school students, meanwhile, learn from enthusiastic role models. The DUDL already has made local headlinestwo standout sibling debate students, Teague and Theron Harrison, from Denvers Manual High School, were featured in a March 2011 cover story in Denvers alternative weekly newspaper, Westwordand the numbers clearly reveal the ongoing success of the partnership with DU. During the 200910 school year, the DUDL boasted a total of 68 students from seven schools. Those 68 students competed in 926 tournament rounds. One year later, with only one more school in the fold, 137 students participated in a total of 2,301 tournament rounds. Thats a 101 percent increase in the number of participating students and a whopping 148 percent increase in the number of tournament rounds in which they competed. More important, the graduation rate for DUDL students during the 200910 and 201011 seasons was a perfect 100 percent. Thats no small feat, considering the overall graduation rate reported by Denver Public Schools for 2010 11 stood at 56.1 percent. I was a debater, and the reality for me was that I traveled around the country, both in high school and college, and spent years where I never saw anybody at the debates who looked like me, says Munn, a Colorado native of African-American descent. Now I go to these tournaments, and all these kids its a very diverse group. Its very personally rewarding for me to see that. But also, for these kids, theyre having success in an area where traditionally kids that look like them have not been successful. They get that. They recognize that nobody
would expect them to understand and know how the aerospace industry works, but they can sing it chapter and verse after going through that particular topic for a year. For me, thats a globally rewarding thing. The students routinely echo Munns sentiment, and most say they are grateful for the opportunity. The typical DUDL student does not participate in varsity athletics, and debaters generally are extremely bright students who have not discovered their niche in the classroom. Through debate, those students find inspiration, motivation and an outlet for intellects that may otherwise have remained neglected. To quote a coach of mine, he said hed been debating all his life, but he wasnt on the debate team officially until high school, says Selene Figueroa, a student with the Martin Luther King debate team. During my eighth-grade year, my teachers recommended I go watch the state championships, which was the Denver Urban Debate Leagues first year. At first I thought, Debates nerdy. Whatever. But then I listened to it, and it was actually really cool. They were talking about relevant things. I come from a theater background, so I love having people listen to me, she continues. Im not the tallest, or usually the best. But in a debate round you have to stand in front of a judge who has to listen to you to make their decision. I love that challenge. Those challenges continue to inspire DUDL alums currently working toward their college degrees. DU sophomore Reuben Aguirre, an international studies major who competed in the DUDL at Denver West High School, readily admits that his desire to earn a degree hails largely from his experience in the debate league.
University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
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Up until that time, I hadnt been a straight-A student at all, Aguirre says. It seemed like it was very empowering for the students that participated in it. It seemed like the sort of organization I wanted to be involved with. Before that, I wasnt too concerned about life after high school, he continues. I never considered myself a dumb kid, but I never did well in school because nothing held my attention. Debate was a different way of learning. In my two years of debate, I probably learned more than I had in classrooms up to that point. The DUDL sponsored six tournaments this year, culminating in a city championship in mid-March that was won individually by Manuals Harrison siblings and by the Denver Center for International Studies in the team sweepstakes. This years topic centered on the following premise: The United States federal government should substantially increase its exploration and/or development of space beyond the Earths mesosphere. For those wondering what exactly constitutes the mesosphere, fear not. These teenagers were all over it. Throughout the course of a season, each set of debaters is required to argue both the positive and the negative aspects of a particular viewpoint. While that clearly presents a monumental challenge, becoming an expert on such a topic can be just as challenging to the coaches. Ive learned probably more than the students have, says Wauneta Vann, the debate coach at Thomas Jefferson High School. First of all, there are the topics. You have to stay ahead of the game. That first year, [DUDL Executive Director] Jessica Clark bless her heart, I would call her nonstop. It would be the middle of practice and I would call
Watch a video of Denver Urban Debate League students in action at du.edu/dudl
her saying, Theyre asking me this and I dont know the answer! Then I actually went to a coaches camp, and thats what really made a difference for me. Im constantly doing research and trying to learn, reading more. These guys pick up on things so fast and before you know it, Im playing catch-up. Ive definitely learned a lot. Given the rapid success of the DUDLthe league added three schools this seasonthe organization expects to enjoy further expansion in the near future. It already boasts novice and varsity divisions, and increased numbers in the future could lead to an intermediary junior varsity division as well. In fall 2011, the National Organization of Urban Debate Leagues issued a directive detailing its intent to triple its membership. Corrada foresees a day in the not-so-distant future when factions of the DUDL will be in middle schools, allowing students to begin debating sooner and, in turn, be far more proficient by the time they are seniors in high school. A lot of guys like me, who are former debaters, come and judge, Corrada said. We even have a former Federal District Court judge whos a former debater who comes and judges. If we branch out, if we increase our membership by two- or threefold and go into middle schools, we will have to figure out where we can get folks to judge. But at DU, for example, the law school now allows law students to work with these debate teams and get public service credits. Thats been very helpful. Each year weve seen a growth in the number of law students who are helping these kids. Which is great. Thats win-win. Win-win. Thats a benefit no debater could ever refute. >>denverdebate.org
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DU Archives
Three recreational swimmers pose for a photograph on the diving board of the DU swimming pool in May 1954. If you can identify these swimmers, or if you have your own recreation photos or memories to share, please send them our way.
University of Denver Magazine Connections
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The classes
1952
Jack Gardner (BA 52) of Shalimar, Fla., is president of Gardner Management Inc. in Fort Walton Beach, Fla. Jack previously served on the board of directors of the Retired Military Officers Association in Washington, D.C., and was the Florida state president of that organization. Jack served as a battalion commander during active duty in the Vietnam War, was part of the U.S. Army staff and Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon, and was an Army attach in Brazil during the 1970s.
Edward herrera (BA 52, MA 63) of Calgary, Alberta, has worked as a teacher and principal for more than 50 years. He taught in Denver Public Schools from 195269 and twice was named outstanding teacher of the year. Edward also was a teacher and principal in Canada from 196994, and he earned an outstanding principal award there in 1992. Edward has been a substitute elementary teacher since 1994.
California Polytechnic State University. He also is vice president of marketing at Parallel Design Studios and is a consultant to several city governments in California.
1963
1958
William howard (BA 58, MA 60) of San Luis Obispo, Calif., is professor emeritus of city and regional planning at the College of Architecture and Environmental Design at
Leslee (Carlson) Breene (BA 63) of Englewood, Colo., is an award-winning Western womens fiction author. She recently released her fourth novel, Starlight Rescue (Treble Heart Books, 2011), about a veterinarian in Wyoming who fights to keep her rescue ranch. The book was a finalist for the Romance Writers of Americas Published Authors Special Interest Chapter Award for single-title romance.
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Jeffrey Haessler
1965
John Kirby (BSBA 65) of Woodland Hills, Calif., owns a dealership, Kirby Auto Group. John also is an avid DU basketball fan and attended the Sun Belt tournament in Hot Springs, Ark., in March 2011.
1966
Dennis Powers (JD 66) of Ashland, Ore., recently added e-book versions of his five nonfiction maritime books and three new fiction titlesThe Deadly Seas, A World Within Worlds and The Gold Bugsto the Amazon Kindle store, Apple iBooks store and other e-reader sites.
1968
Stephen Alfers (BA 68, MA 73) of Highlands Ranch, Colo., joined Sagebrush Gold Ltd. as executive chairman and chief executive officer in February. Stephen previously was chief of U.S. operations at FrancoNevada Corp. He has 20 years of experience as a partner in several mining, oil and gas and natural resource development law firms. As a mining law expert, Stephen has advised the United Nations, foreign governments and congressional committees.
1969
Bill Overfelt (BSBA 69, MBA 74) of Gilbert, Ariz., welcomed his grandson, William Daniel Valentine, on Sept. 16, 2011.
Paul Verciglio (BS 69) of Toronto received the Pinnacle Award for Hotelier of the Year 2011 for all of Canada from Kostuch Media Ltd. Paul is the general manager of the Park Hyatt Toronto and has worked in the hospitality industry for 50 years. He opened the Park Hyatt Toronto in 1999, the Stillwater Spa in 2002 and an offsite kosher catering business in 2011.
Barry Zawacki (MFA 69) of Mountain Lakes, N.J., is an artist and ceramics teacher at the County College of Morris in Randolph, N.J. A solo exhibition of his pottery, paintings and sculpture was staged at the colleges gallery in January. His exhibition, Spirit of the West, was inspired by the forms, textures, colors and landscapes of Colorado and the Southwest. Barry has completed postgraduate studies in illustration and ceramics.
implications for gender behavior, academic skills, athletic skills, personality and the origin of problems such as autism, hyperactivity and chronic pain. Judith is a professor and director of the Human Neuroscience Laboratory at Stephen F. Austin State University.
1973
1971
Judith Lauter (MA 71) of Nacogdoches, Texas, wrote a neuroscience book, How is Your Brain Like a Zebra? (Xlibris Corp., 2008), which discusses the impact of sex hormones on the brain before birth and the
Richard Gonzmart (attd. 197173) of Tampa, Fla., was recognized with the Citizen of the Year Award by the Tampa Metro Civitan Club at the annual Governors Day luncheon Feb. 9. Richard owns Columbia RestaurantFloridas oldest eateryand was recognized for his ongoing generosity and community service. Terry Toy (PhD 73) of Bemus Point, N.Y., is retired and serves as a ferryboat captain on Lake Chautauqua.
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1974
Kristi (Denton) Cohen (BA 74) of Mill Valley, Calif., is a film producer. Her most recent film, The River Why, was released on DVD in November 2011. It won several awards and was shown at film festivals nationwide. Kristis previous film, Vertical Frontier, was an award-winning documentary, narrated by Tom Brokaw, about the history of climbing in Yosemite. Ron Stock (JD 74, LLM 94) of Monterey, Calif., is the city administrator of Weed, Calif.
taught organizational development at the University of San Francisco. She runs her own consulting business, the Center for Intuition, where she uses her intuition to provide clients with business and personal guidance. Peter Zwack (BA 78) of Newport, R.I., is training to become the senior defense attach for the United States in Moscow beginning in July.
1980
1975
Janet Davenport (MA 75) of Omaha, Neb., became director of Keene Memorial Library in Fremont, Neb. She previously managed the Millard Branch Library and served in various roles at the Omaha Public Library. Terry Meyer (BA 75) of Providence, R.I., is a master gardener at the University of Rhode Island. She was recognized for her volunteer work teaching gardening inside a maximum-security prison in Cranston, R.I., in the Providence Journal on Oct. 31, 2011.
1976
Caroline Smith (BA 80) of Highlands Ranch, Colo., is self-employed as a nutrition and fitness consultant. She is a certified nutritional consultant and a certified natural health practitioner and has a naturopathic doctor degree. Caroline competed in triathlons until she was injured in a car accident in 2003, followed by a bicycle accident and a second car accident in 2007. Shortly after recovering from her injuries, Caroline returned to exercise and won her age bracket in the Winter Park Mountain Bike Series.
Douglas Mewhinney (JD 76) of San Andreas, Calif., retired on March 1his 60th birthdayafter 34 years of public service. Douglas was a Calaveras County Superior Court judge for 14 years and previously was district attorney of Calaveras County.
Monica Ortale (BA 81, MA 82) of Houston is associate director of reference and public services at the Fred Parks Law Library in the South Texas College of Law.
1977
Marlowe Embree (BA 77) of Wasau, Wis., was promoted to associate professor of psychology at the University of Wisconsin, Marathon County. Marlowe conducts research with the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service about the relationship between personality diversity and deliberative democracy.
Jeff Engelstad (BSBA 83, MRCM 92, PhD 97) of Aurora, Colo., is a clinical professor at DUs Franklin L. Burns School of Real Estate and Construction Management.
1978
Therese Rowley (MBA 78) of Chicago was featured in the November 2011 issue of Michigan Avenue Magazine for her work as an intuitive consultant. Therese previously taught leadership and transformation at the University of Chicago and
Leigh hitz (BSBA 84) of Aurora, Colo., was promoted to chief executive officer at Stout Street Hospitality in Denver. She previously was president of the company and has worked for Stout Street for almost 25 years. Leigh also sits on the executive advisory board for the Fritz Knoebel School of Hospitality Management in the Daniels College of Business. In 2008, Leigh and her husband, James, established a scholarship for female students pursuing a hospitality degree at the school. Leigh previously was a finalist for the Denver Business Journals Business Woman of the Year award.
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Carol (Bjork) Taylor (MA 84) of Boulder, Colo., joined the Boulder History Museum as curator of adult programs and research. A librarian and archivist, Carol also has been a Boulder County history columnist for the Daily Camera newspaper since 2008.
1985
Gay Carlson (BA 85, MA 96) of Centennial, Colo., teaches third and fourth grades at DUs Ricks Center for Gifted Children. Owen Jones (MBA 85) of Lakewood, Colo., recently returned from a yearlong work assignment at the South Pole, where he supported scientific research for the National Science Foundation.
Michael Odell (BSAC 85) of Wayne, Pa., was elected to the board of directors of Meritage Homes. He also was appointed to serve on the boards audit, executive compensation and nominating/governance committees. Michael is president and chief executive officer of Pep Boys and serves on the organizations board of directors. He previously was executive vice president and general manager of Sears retail and specialty stores.
Kimberley Lorden (BSBA 86, MBA 89) of Littleton, Colo., in 2010 co-founded the K-8 Ambleside school in Centennial, Colo. Kimberley is director of admissions for the school and serves on its board of trustees. She lives with her husband, Greg, and four children. Terrie Martinez (BA 86) of Denver was appointed to a two-year term on the Hispanic Chamber Education Foundation board of directors in October 2011. Terrie advises programs and acts as an ambassador for the foundations mission of promoting educational achievement, economic advancement and leadership development in the Hispanic community. Terrie is a financial adviser at Merrill Lynch and has worked in the financial services industry since 2006.
1986
Jennifer Gance (BA 86) of Thornton, Colo., started a publishing company, Jotter Books Publishing, in fall 2011. She also wrote and published two books: SPARKIgniting an Interest in Health Care and a childrens book, A Rocky Mountain Tale.
realized he was looking at talent. I remember two things about her very clearly, says Smith, now a research professor, a professor emeritus of chemistry and a chancellor emeritus. She was extremely bright, and she was extremely motivated toward a career in science. We love to get students with those characteristics. I thought that there had to be a way to get her in. He left the room, telling Preuss, Ill be right back. When he returned, he had both an acceptance and a scholarship. The acceptance was obtained with a call to admission. The scholarship came from a fund established by DU alumna Broda Barnes (BA 28). I knew how much was in the fund, Smith says. I found out how much Daphne needed and was able to tip the scale in favor of her enrolling. Preuss went on to graduate school at M.I.T. and postdoctoral work at Stanford. She became a full professor at the University of Chicago in her 30s. She left academia to found Chromatin, which employs more than 100 people and is growing sorghum on some 3 million acres through seed sales and contractual arrangements with farmers. Preuss also holds more than 50 patents. She looks back to DU as the place that gave her the critical break. Dwight took the meeting with us, and I will always be grateful, she says. He made an exception and helped get me in. Without that, I might not have gone to college. >>chromaticinc.com
Doug McInnis
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Richard Stalzer (BSBA 86) of New York was named president of mobile marketing and advertising for Motricity. Richard previously was chief operating officer at Education Dynamics. Prior, he held strategic leadership positions at InterActive Corp., Bankrate, Microsoft, E*Trade Financial and Time Warner.
1987
Peg Brown (JD 87) of Denver is deputy commissioner of consumer affairs for the Colorado Division of Insurance. She also is the first person in the nation to complete all three levels of the Insurance Regulator Professional Designation Programa national training program for insurance regulators. Pegs accomplishment was recognized by the National Association of Insurance at the organizations annual fall meeting in 2011. Dante James (JD 87) of Aurora, Colo., was named director of the Portland, Ore., Office of Equity and Human Rightsa newly formed city office designed to tackle inequity. Dante is a former nonprofit director and public defender. He also served with military police in the U.S. Army and was an appointee of former Denver Mayor Wellington Webb. Dennis Neilander (JD 87) of Minden, Nev., was hired as a consultant for compliance and gaming regulatory matters at Multimedia Games Holding Co. He also is chairman of the companys regulatory compliance committee. Dennis joined the Kaempfer Crowell law firm in 2011. He previously was a member and chairman of the board of directors for the State of Nevada Gaming Control Board. Dennis also served as member and president of the International Association of Gaming Regulators and was named gaming regulator of the year in 2007 by the International Masters of Gaming Law. Alan Willenbrock (MBA 87) of Tucson, Ariz., is a portfolio manager, vice president and financial adviser at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. Alan recently was named to the firms Pacesetters Club, a global recognition program for financial advisers who demonstrate high professional standards and first-class client service within their first five years. Alan lives with his wife, Peggy Jones.
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1988 1990
Jim Doerner (MA 88, PhD 94) of Greeley, Colo., is a professor of geography at the University of Northern Colorado.
Steve Fondario (MSSM 91) was appointed director of supply chain management at St. Josephs Hospital Health Center in Syracuse, N.Y. Steve has more than 30 years of experience, including leadership positions at General Electric, Apple and Cisco Systems Inc.
Mark Goldfogel (BSBA 90) of Telluride, Colo., co-founded MJ Freeway, a provider of hosted software for the medical marijuana industry. MJ Freeway provides software solutions that streamline sales and tax collection, state reporting, diversion control, tracking and best business practices for the medical marijuana industry. Mark also writes a blog about changing state regulations for medical marijuana growers and providers.
1992
1991
Christina Dixon (BA 92, JD 96) of Denver formed the Dixon Law Firm, which represents insurance companies and their insured in claims including firstand third-party bad faith, breach of contract and employer liability.
Russell Sinkler (CERT 93) of Rosemount, Minn., is the quality management director at UCare, an independent, nonprofit health insurance company. Russell previously was director of client management for OptumInsight. He has more than 25 years of experience in quality oversight, customer service, process improvement, strategic planning and technology advances. Russell also is an adjunct instructor in the MBA program at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minn.
1993
1995
Tod Fitzke (JD 91) of Aurora, Colo., has a private law practice in the areas of insurance subrogation, small business representation, landlord/tenant issues, collections, personal injury and estate planning.
George Milburn (MSSM 92) of Fairfax, Va., retired from the U.S. Marine Corps as a colonel after 31 years of service. He now is strategic plans director for Cyber Command in Fort Meade, Md. George lives with Kathy, his wife of 33 years. They have three children who all served in the military.
Bouker Pool (BA 95, MS 03) of New York works for the newly formed USA TODAY Sports Media Group. He previously worked for Competitor Group Inc. in San Diego. Chris Sutton (PhD 95) of Macomb, Ill., is a professor in the geography department at Western Illinois University. He coauthored the Student Atlas of World Geography (McGraw-Hill/Dushkin), which is in its seventh edition.
DU on the Road brings the University of Denver from the foothills of the Rockies to a city near you. Throughout the academic year, complimentary cocktail receptions are held in various cities across the country. These gatherings provide a unique opportunity to speak with University leadership about the latest developments at DU while you mingle with fellow alumni, parents and friends of the university.
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Mary (Vensel) White (BA 95) of Irvine, Calif., recently wrote her first novel, The Qualities of Wood (HarperCollins, 2012). Mary lives with her husband and four children and is writing her next book.
1996 1997
Paul Marr (PhD 96) of Shippensburg, Pa., is a professor of geography at Shippensburg University.
1998
Audrey Goetz (MT 98) of Independence, Ky., manages the tax department of SS&G Certified Public Accountants and Advisors. She previously was a senior tax manager at J.D. Cloud & Co.
Andrew Wiener (BA 97) of Greenwich, Conn., welcomed a son, Anderson Robert Wiener, on Sept. 14, 2011.
1999
Khalid Al-Mahmoud (BA 99) of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, is an award-winning filmmaker. Khalid was one of 10 film personalities named the most influential in the
Book bin
Dalliance: A Novel, by Diana (Miller) Burg (attd. 196364, 196768) Dalliance (Syracuse University Press, 2008) is a historical novel about womens issues during the Civil War, based on the true story of the highsociety romance, marriage and divorce of Mary and Isaac Burch in Illinois in the 1860s. Burg researched the novel with the help of her fathers collection of letters, diaries, books and memorabilia from the Civil War era, which is housed as a special collection at Penrose Library. Burgs father, Victor Miller (LLB 22), taught at the DU law school from 192629. Burg lives with her husband, Charles Burg (JD 68), in Denver, where she practices real estate.
Entrepreneurial Success: The Road to the Top, by Joseph Geiger (BS 60) Entrepreneurial Success (The Road to the Top, 2011) features 101 business principles and insights Geiger learned during his 50 years of experience building 10 companies. The book includes information about finding business opportunities; crafting a business plan; buying, starting, growing and marketing a business; legal and ethical issues in business; and having an exit strategy. Geiger lives in Richmond, Va., where he teaches entrepreneurship and small business management at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College. For more information, visit www. theroadtothetop.com.
It Might Turn Out We Are Real, by Susan Scarlata (PhD 09) It Might Turn Out We Are Real (Horse Less Press, 2011) is a collection of 65 one-page poems Scarlata wrote as a current take on the ancient Sapphic stanza form of poetrya booklong series of contemporary language fragmenting itself as it goes, she explains. Scarlata lives in Hong Kong, where she is a liberal arts professor at the Savannah College of Art and Design and executive editor at Lost Roads Publishers. For more information, visit www. susanscarlata.com.
Take the Stairs: 7 Steps to Achieving True Success by Rory Vaden (BSBA 06, MBA 06) Vaden, an award-winning trainer, strategist and motivational speaker who lives in Nashville, Tenn., developed his take the stairs philosophy as a member of the Pioneer Leadership Program at DU. In Take the Stairswhich rose to the No. 1 spot on the USA Today Money bestsellers list and was No. 2 on the New York Times bestsellers list in the category of advice, how-to and miscellaneousVaden writes that self-discipline and avoiding the temptation of shortcuts are important to achieving success in this escalator world. What seems like an easier path is really much harder in the end and, most important, it wont take you where you want to go, he writes.
Vintage and Artistic Homes of Boulder by Gayl Gray (MA 73) Gray wrote and took photographs for Vintage and Artistic Homes of Boulder (Johnson Books, 2011), a photo book that depicts the interior and exterior architecture and design of 27 homes while recounting the architectural history of some of the neighborhoods in Boulder, Colo. Gray is a photographer and a former information specialist and library manager for the National Center for Atmospheric Research. She also was a journalist for Boulder Womens Magazine. Gray lives in Boulder with her husband, Richard Rotunno.
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Arab film community by Screen International magazine. Khalid is a programmer for the Dubai International Film Festival and directed the short film Sabeel, which won several international awards. Richard Dodge (PhD 99) of Douglas, Ariz., works for the U.S. Census. He previously taught a geography course at the University of Arizona, Tucson. Richard is a member of the board of directors of Desert Rose Bahai Institute and is the originator and coordinator for the institutes annual Artists and Scholars Symposium. He also conducts research on U.N. Security Council reform. Rachel Oys (BA 99, MPP 00, JD 05) of Golden, Colo., was appointed assistant manager of Eagle County, Colo., in November 2011. She also is director of health and human services for the county. Prior to joining Eagle County, Rachel led development at LiveWell Colorado and led the healthy living branch of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Tennille Williams (BA 99, MA 05) of Phoenix married Troy Blair on Oct. 22, 2011, in Paradise Valley, Ariz.
2000
Josh Ganet (BSBA 00) and Carli (Dyer) Ganet of Long Beach, Calif., welcomed a daughter, Lucy Elizabeth Ganet, on Dec. 22, 2011. Dayna Milne (MBA 00) of Littleton, Colo., was hired as the division vice president of revenue management at Sage Hospitality in Denver. Dayna has more than 20 years of leadership experience. She previously was the corporate director of revenue management for Vail Resorts Hospitality and RockResorts. She also was the Colorado market director of revenue management for Marriott International and the director of sales and marketing for Mexicos Camino Real Hotels. Timothy Vowles (PhD 00) of Thornton, Colo., is a lecturer in the geography program at the University of Northern Colorado.
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2001
Brenden McNeil (BS 01, MS 02) of Morgantown, W.Va., is an assistant professor of geography at West Virginia University. Keith Ratner (PhD 01) of Amesbury, Mass., is a professor in the geography department at Salem State University in Salem, Mass. He recently co-submitted a paper on transitoriented development in Denver for a special issue of the Cities journal. Keith also helped organize a rail transit field trip in Seattle for the Association of American Geographers annual meeting in April 2011.
& Tooley, where she focuses on mineral title and business transactions. She also has completed 11 marathons. Kyle Schlachter (BS 03) and his wife, Lisa Todd (BA 02, MA 05), of Littleton, Colo., welcomed their first child, son Benjamin Elias Schlachter-Todd, on April 25, 2011.
Keith hoffman (BFA 05) of New York received a masters degree in education from DePaul University and is a graduate student at the School of Visual Arts in New York. He exhibited his artwork at the schools gallery in December 2011. Katherine OConnor (MS 05) of Denver is an analyst for the Office of Economic Development at the city and county of Denver. Carol Samson (PhD 05) of Denver was awarded a Wurlitzer Foundation writing fellowship for fall 2011 at the foundations residency program in Taos, N.M. Shawn Smith (MA 05, PsyD 06) of Lakewood, Colo., recently released his second book, The Users Guide to the Human Mind: Why Our Brains Make Us Unhappy, Anxious, and Neurotic and What We Can Do About It (New Harbinger Publications, 2011).
2004
2002
Melanie Dunlap (JD 02) of Somerville, Tenn., is a partner with the law firm of Harris Shelton Hanover Walsh in Memphis, Tenn. Angela (Neese) Rathbun (BSBA 02) and Scott Rathbun (BSAC 04, MBA 04) of Denver celebrated the birth of their son, Beckett, on Dec. 31, 2011. Angela is an associate attorney with McGeady Sisneros, and Scott balances two careersone as chief analyst at T.A. Myers & Co. forensic accounting firm and the other as a musical theater actor. Jeremy Rosenthal (JD 02) of Denver recently was named one of the Top 40 Under 40 by the National Trial Lawyers Association. As a criminal defense attorney, Jeremy focuses on DUI and medical cannabis cases. Jeremy is a member of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association, Super Lawyers Rising Stars, Better Business Bureau, Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, National College of DUI Defense, American Association for Justice and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. Robert Boardman (MM 04) of Ann Arbor, Mich., was named semifinalist for the American Prize in Conducting for the world premiere performance of Lembit Beechers multimedia oratorio And Then I Remember. In fall 2011, Robert was named music director and conductor of the Rensselaer Symphony Orchestra in Troy, N.Y., and of the South Bend Youth Symphony Orchestras. Robert received a DMA in orchestral conducting at the University of Michigan in 2010.
2006
Ethan Grunstein (BSBA 06) of Venice, Calif., was hired in July 2010 to create the flagship retail location for Currie Technologies in Los Angeles. Currie Technologies is the largest solely electric bicycle company in the U.S. Ethan was drawn to the project because it allowed him to combine his passions for motorcycling and bicycling while creating a fuel-efficient way for people to commute. Andrea Santoro (MA 06) of Westford, Mass., is a geographic information system (GIS) specialist in Denvers Office of Community Development and Planning. She was part of the team that received the Special Achievement in GIS Award at the 2011 ESRI conference in San Diego.
Katrina Marzetta (BA 04) of Denver welcomed her daughter, Avalyn Leona Marzetta, on July 21, 2011. Alex Muleh (MS 04) of Louisville, Colo., works at the Broomfield office of Environmental Systems Research Inc. Bryan Villano (BSBA 04) of Deerfield, Ill., married Janna Hoffman on Nov. 6, 2011, in Chicago.
2007
2003
Chelsey Russell (BSBA 03, JD 11) of Denver married her husband, Ben, in September 2008. The couple welcomed their first child, daughter Hayden Elaine, in July 2011, three days before Chelsey took and passed the Colorado bar exam. In fall 2011, Chelsey started as an associate attorney at Welborn Sullivan Meck
University of Denver Magazine Summer 2012
2005
Megan Gall (CERT 05, MS 07) of Buffalo, N.Y., recently completed her second year in the political science program at the University at Buffalo. Her dissertation is about the distribution of crime throughout the U.S. and Canada. Yaneev Golombek (MS 05) of Denver is lead geospatial project analyst at Merrick & Co.
Maria Caffrey (MA 07) of Denver in 2011 received a PhD in geography from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Maria recently returned to Denver to accept a position at the National Park Service and began teaching meteorology in DUs geography department this spring. Matthias Edrich (IMBA 07, JD 07) of Denver is a tax attorney at Peck, Shaffer & Williams. He recently was elected secretary of the Colorado chapter of the German American Chamber of Commerce. Matthias also is a governors appointee to the State of Colorado Private Activity Bond Allocations
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Committee. He previously worked with the general counsels office of BEA Systems in Munich and the U.S. Department of Justice Antitrust Division in Philadelphia. Erik Gano (MBA 07) of Denver became engaged to Lily Paez on Nov. 11, 2011. Chase iron Eyes (JD 07) of Bismarck, N.D., has practiced law at his firm, Iron Eyes Law Office, for the past two years. He previously worked for the Standing Rock Sioux nation as a legal specialist. In 2008, Chase helped organize a culture camp at Standing Rock to reconnect youth with their indigenous culture. He also started a website that features original writing, stories and other multimedia. Chase recently completed an Olympic distance triathlon. Kate (Paparo) King (BA 07) of Greenwood Village, Colo., started an art therapy business in Denver called Kate King Art Therapy & Psychotherapy. Kate helps teenagers and adults work through difficult emotions, situations and experiences using a combination of art, music, body-centered techniques and verbal counseling.
Shitij Mehta (MS 07) of Redlands, Calif., is a software developer for the geoprocessing team at ESRI in Redlands.
2008
Edward Dawkins (BS 08) of Waynesboro, Va., was accepted into the F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Md. Nicole (Combs) iacovoni (MSW 08) of Bloomsburg, Pa., is the founder and chief clinician at Willow Tree Wellness & Counseling. Nicole specializes in adolescent and young adult therapeutic interventions. She also integrates animal-assisted therapy into her practice. Nicole married her husband, Tom, on Aug. 20, 2010, in St. Lucia. The couple welcomed their daughter, Elan Olivia, into their family on Oct. 28, 2011. Leah Konrady (BA 08) of Washington, D.C., is director of the Great Lakes Washington Program at the Northeast-Midwest Institute. Leah previously was a legislative assistant to U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky and served as his point of contact on environmental and transportation policy.
Sarah Morley (BA 08) of Denver is the business communications manager for Louik Holdings. Sarah also volunteers as the vice president of membership for the Tri Delta Alumni Association of Denver. Her community projects include fundraising for the Childrens Tumor Foundation and directing the Cupids Undie Run race in its first year of national expansion. Jake Needell (BSBA 08) of Denver is the founder and CEO of Louik Holdings and JSN Property Management. heidi Rolander-Peterson (MA 08) of Berthoud, Colo., is an associate city planner in Denvers Office of Economic Development. Kristen (White) Sorensen (BA 08) of Aurora, Colo., recently joined the Leukemia & Lymphoma Societys Team in Training program to run a marathon in Estes Park, Colo., on June 17. Kristen made a commitment to raise $5,000 prior to the event to help fund cancer research.
Contact us
Tell us about your career and personal accomplishments, awards, births, life events or whatever else is keeping you busy. Do you support a cause? Do you have any hobbies? Did you just return from a vacation? Let us know! Dont forget to send a photo. (Include a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope if you would like your photo returned.)
Question of the hour: Where was your favorite place to study at DU, and why? Post your class note online at www.alumni.du.edu, email du-magazine@du.edu or mail your note to: Class Notes, University of Denver Magazine, 2199 S. University Blvd., Denver, CO 80208-4816. Name (include maiden name) DU degree(s) and graduation year(s) Address City State Phone Email Employer Occupation ZIP code Country
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2009
Elizabeth Boulos (MS 09) of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, is a marketing specialist for Hannaford Supermarkets, which is owned by Delhaize Group in Brussels, Belgium. Elizabeth recently was promoted into the Delhaize Group International Program. Taryn Burnett (MPS 09) of Houston married Glenn Burnett on May 28, 2011. Brad Kopitz (BSBA 09) of Grosse Pointe, Mich., was named Internet marketing manager at Summit Sports Inc. Previously, Brad was a marketing analyst at eBags.com. Michelle Kwan (BA 09) of Artesia, Calif., was inducted into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame during the national championships Jan. 2229 in San Jose, Calif. Michelle won 43 championships during her ice-skating career, including eight consecutive U.S. titles, five world crowns, a silver Olympic medal and a bronze Olympic medal.
2010
Tilottama Ghosh (PhD 10) of Tacoma, Wash., was married in December 2010. Wedding ceremonies were held in Kolkata, India, and Varanasi, India. Julie Markham (BSBA 10, MBA 10, MS 10) of Littleton, Colo., was one of 246 people awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for youth at a June 23, 2011, ceremony on Capitol Hill. The award is the highest civilian honor awarded by the U.S. Congress to individuals who perform outstanding deeds or services. Julie received the honor for her various services to the international community, including volunteering with Tibetan refugees in India, researching microfinance in Cambodia and Bangladesh, analyzing slum upgrading in Kenya, and comparing real estate development in the Middle East. Rosalyn Oshmyansky (BA 10) recently joined ABC News in Washington, D.C., as a broadcast journalist.
Sean Tierney (PhD 10) of Southlake, Texas, is an assistant professor in the geography department at the University of North Texas. Ashleigh Wiggins (JD 10) of Trinidad, Colo., was hired as a temporary part-time deputy district attorney in Huerfano County, Colo., where she will cover traffic and misdemeanor matters.
Post your class note online at www.du.edu/alumni, email du-magazine@du.edu or mail in the form on page 55.
Quotable notes
Thank you to everyone who responded to the winter issues question of the hour: What student organizations or activities were you involved with on campus? Alpha Gamma Delta. Leslee (Carlson) Breene (BA 63) Englewood, Colo. Delta Delta Delta, Project Albania and Kayak Club. Sarah Morley (BA 08) Denver Dukes Independent Organization and all intramural sports. John Kirby (BSBA 65) Woodland Hills, Calif. I ran cross country while in undergrad, and in law school I was a contributor for the Race to the Bottom Blog. Chelsey Russell (BSBA 03, JD 11) Denver
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Deaths
1920s 1940s
helen Rouce (attd. 29), Houston, 8-18-10 Beverly Agnew (BA 42), Solana Beach, Calif., 10-11-11 Frances Melrose (BA 43), Denver, 11-26-11 Ruth Gilbert (BS 45, MA 66), Coeur dAlene, Idaho, 11-17-09 Virginia Putnam (BFA 45), Lakewood, Colo., 2-6-12 Jay Groom (BS 49), Stockton, Calif., 2-9-12 Mary Lou (Damascio) Keating (BSBA 49), Pueblo, Colo., 11-26-11 Richard Nelson (BA 49), Kalispell, Mont., 2-16-12
1950s
Richard Gilbert (BS 51), Centennial, Colo., 4-26-11 Dale Leifheit (BSBA 51), Woodland, Calif., 11-12-11 Al Perry (BS 51), Denver, 2-8-12 Don Snapp (BS 51), Danville, Calif., 11-19-11 Richard Washburn (BS 51), St. Joseph, Mich., 2-11-10 Ethel Boettcher (MA 53), East Grand Forks, Minn., 12-12-11 Patricia (Willimont) Walthers (BA 53), Broomfield, Colo., 2-24-11 John Biviano (BA 54), Toledo, Ohio, 11-17-11 Terry Eakin (BA 54), Mesa, Ariz., 1-9-12 Edith Siegrist (MA 54), Vermillion, S.D., 7-31-11 Carlton Jones (MA 55), Ellabell, Ga., 4-26-11 Ronald Pulliam (attd. 195355), York, Maine, 12-12-11 Margaret Udesen (MA 56), Talent, Ore., 12-27-11 John hoerning (BS 57), Crystal, Minn., 6-2-09 John Jack Keables (MA 57), Denver, 10-5-11 John Murray Jr. (BSBA 57), Indian Head Park, Ill., 1-23-12 Gerald Kopel (LLB 58), Denver, 1-21-12 David Yeakley (BFA 58, MA 61), Denver, 1-29-12
1960s
George higginson (BS 62), Oakland Park, Fla., 2-7-12 ida Fasel (PhD 63), Denver, 1-13-12 Morton herbst (BS 64), Danbury, Conn., 9-16-10 Susan Rosenkoetter (MA 66), Groton, N.Y., 9-12-10 Theodore Ted Bauch (MSW 68), Sturgeon Bay, Wis., 12-11-11 Jane Muschamp (BSBA 68), New Canaan, Conn., 1-7-12
2000s
1970s
Jim Steele (MA 70), Kingsland, Ga., 11-27-11 Virginia Ginny Fraser (MA 71), Highlands Ranch, Colo., 11-18-11 Robert Wick (MA 71), Denver, 1-30-12 Cynthia (Johnson) Pelham-Webb (BSBA 72), Short Hills, N.J., 12-21-11
1980s
Charles Kenney (BA 81), Kenwood, Calif., 12-7-11 Barbara (Bumgarner) Villiotti (MA 85), Bernalillo, N.M., 10-16-11
Craig Bach, assistant director of alumni information technology, Denver, 2-24-12 Glenn Davis (BS 38), retired physical plant professional director in the Department of Facilities Management, Aurora, Colo., 12-6-11 Roger Salters, associate professor of electrical engineering, Bailey, Colo., 1-13-12 Rosemary Schell, retired professor in the School of Librarianship and Information Management, Greenwood Village, Colo., 11-21-11 Gordon Von Stroh, professor in the Department of Management at the Daniels College of Business, Denver, 3-14-12 Wilma Young, amica universitata, Student Health Services, Arvada, Colo., 11-5-11
University of Denver Magazine Connections
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Pioneer pics
Andy Pratt (BA 00) of St. Paul, Minn., took a break from exploring the Great Wall of China to pose for a photo while wearing his DU T-shirt. Pratt and his wife visited Beijing in April 2011 to adopt their second son, Joseph Wu Pratt. As you pioneer lands far and wide, be sure to pack your DU gear and strike a pose in front of a national monument, the fourth wonder of the world or your hometown hot spot. If we print your submission, youll receive some new DU paraphernalia to take along on your travels. Send your print or high-resolution digital image and a description of the location to: Pioneer Pics, University of Denver Magazine, 2199 S. University Blvd., Denver, CO 80208-4816, or email du-magazine@du.edu. Be sure to include your full name, address, degree(s) and year(s) of graduation.
Which alum founded a company that registers internet domain names? The answer can be found somewhere on pages 4558 of this issue. Send your answer to du-magazine@ du.edu or University of Denver Magazine, 2199 S. University Blvd., Denver, CO 80208-4816. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. Well select a winner from the correct entries; the winning entry will win a prize. Congratulations to Charlie Lieb (MA 75) for winning the spring issues pop quiz.
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ViEWS
Looking up
Photo by Wayne Armstrong
veryone in Denver knows the Ritchie Centers gold-topped Williams Tower, which is 215 feet tall and visible from more than a mile away. Heres an inside look at the tower, which was named for Honorary Life Trustee Carl Williams and which features trompe loeil murals by artists Ken Miller and Linda Paulsen.
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MiSCELLANEA
Hood ornament
Inspired by DUs Chamberlin Observatory, Denver cartoonist Kenny Be created this illustration as part of a series of fictional Denver Neighborhood Seed Co. packets he made for the inaugural Denver County Fair in 2011. Other neighborhoods featured in the series include Capitol Hill, Congress Park and Baker. Co-created by alumna Dana Cain (BA 81), the Denver County Fair returns Aug. 1012 at the National Western Complex. The event puts a hipster spin on the traditional county fair, mixing such staples as animal exhibitions and pie-baking contests with a bicycle rodeo and a drag-queen competition. >>www.denvercountyfair.org
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