Eric Leal Named VP for Finance and Administration at �鶹��Ƶ</h1> <article> <h1>Eric Leal Named VP for Finance and Administration at �鶹��Ƶ</h1> <p>eburnett — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 13:12:20 +0000</p> <span>Eric Leal Named VP for Finance and Administration at �鶹��Ƶ</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-04-09T09:12:20-04:00" title="Thursday, April 9, 2026 - 09:12">Thu, 04/09/2026 - 09:12</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Eric Leal, a finance professional with more than 20 years of experience in financial management and strategic leadership in higher education, health care, and government sectors, has been named Vice President for Finance and Administration at �鶹��Ƶ. His appointment concludes a comprehensive national search.</p><p>Leal will begin on May 18.</p><p>The VP for Finance and Administration is a pivotal role that oversees �鶹��Ƶ’s Finance and Investment offices, Facilities Operations and Planning, and the Center for Information Technology. The position is part of �鶹��Ƶ President Carmen Twillie Ambar’s Executive Leadership Team.</p><p>“Eric stood out for his strategic financial leadership and his ability to partner effectively across complex organizations, bringing people together to address challenges and advance institutional priorities,” says Ambar.</p><p>“He has a strong track record of aligning financial strategy with institutional goals, communicating complex issues clearly, and guiding organizations through periods of change with transparency and care. We’re very fortunate to have him at �鶹��Ƶ.”</p><p>From 2019 to 2024, Leal served as Associate Dean for Budget and Administration at American University, where he was the chief financial and operating officer for the College of Arts and Sciences, overseeing 19 departments and more than 500 employees. During his tenure, he developed a budget strategy to address a 35 percent reduction in the operating budget during COVID while preserving jobs. </p><p>Most recently, Leal was Vice President for Administration and Finance/Treasurer at Delaware County Community College in suburban Philadelphia, where he led all administrative and business operations. He previously held senior administration and finance roles at Howard University and the University of California, Berkeley.</p><p>Before transitioning to higher ed, Leal was an interim Chief Financial Officer with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Chief Operating Officer for the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, and he spent 14 years in a range of administrative positions with the U.S. Air Force.</p><p>“I am honored and excited that President Ambar asked me to join her team,” says Leal. “I was impressed by the deep sense of community and commitment to �鶹��Ƶ among everyone I’ve met when visiting campus. I look forward to partnering with the Executive Leadership Team and people across campus to advance �鶹��Ƶ’s mission in support of faculty, staff, and students.”</p><p>Leal is a member of the National Association of College and University Business Officers and the Eastern Association of College and University Business Officers. He earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Tennessee and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Arizona.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Veteran finance professional has excelled in settings across higher education, health care, and government.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-04-09T12:00:00Z">Thu, 04/09/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Office of Communications</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>�鶹��Ƶ's Marcel Mutsindashyaka to Address United Nations on International Day of Reflection</h1> <p>eburnett — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 13:55:00 +0000</p> <span>�鶹��Ƶ's Marcel Mutsindashyaka to Address United Nations on International Day of Reflection</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-04-06T09:55:00-04:00" title="Monday, April 6, 2026 - 09:55">Mon, 04/06/2026 - 09:55</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>More than three decades ago, Marcel Mutsindashyaka lost most of his family in the genocide that unfolded over 100 days in Rwanda. Today, he is sharing his story of grief, resilience, and remembrance with the world.</p><p>Mutsindashyaka, �鶹��Ƶ's Chief Information Officer, will address the United Nations as part of a commemorative ceremony marking the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda. The ceremony, taking place at U.N. headquarters in New York City on Tuesday, April 7, can be <a href="https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1e/k1eqtuet05">streamed live on U.N. Web TV beginning at 10 a.m.</a></p><p>The genocide began on April 7, 1994, and included the murder of more than one million people—most of them members of the Tutsi ethnic group, but also those of Hutu heritage and others who opposed the killing. “Entire families were brutally erased,” U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said in a message marking the 32nd anniversary of what he called “one of the darkest chapters in human history.”</p><p>In 2003, the U.N. established the International Day of Reflection, and each year on April 7, it holds memorial events in New York and at U.N. offices around the world. </p><p>The 10 a.m. ceremony, held in the General Assembly Hall, will be led by Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications Melissa Fleming, an �鶹��Ƶ alumna from the Class of 1986. The program will include remarks from senior U.N. officials and international leaders, as well as short films, survivor testimony, a candle-lighting ceremony, and a musical tribute.</p><p>Mutsindashyaka will speak in his dual capacity as a genocide survivor and president of <a href="https://ibukausa.org/">Ibuka USA</a>, an organization dedicated to honoring the memory of victims, supporting survivors, and advocating for a world free from genocide.</p><p>“When I was 5 years old, I lost 27 members of my family, including my father and three of my siblings,” Mutsindashyaka says. “That experience has shaped who I am today and continues to influence how I see the world and how I serve with purpose, resilience, and a deep commitment to others.</p><p>“At the United Nations, I will be speaking on behalf of more than one million Tutsi who were killed during the genocide, as well as the hundreds of thousands of survivors whose lives were forever impacted and who continue to carry its legacy."</p><p>The annual observance serves as a reminder that the atrocities that took place in Rwanda are, in the words of Secretary-General Guterres, "never forgotten—and never repeated. Anywhere."</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Chief Information Officer survived genocide in his native Rwanda, plays a leading role in honoring the memory of victims.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-04-06T12:00:00Z">Mon, 04/06/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones '97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Tony DeCocinis Named Associate Vice President for Finance</h1> <p>eburnett — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:33:12 +0000</p> <span>Tony DeCocinis Named Associate Vice President for Finance</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-03-24T16:33:12-04:00" title="Tuesday, March 24, 2026 - 16:33">Tue, 03/24/2026 - 16:33</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/tony-decocinis" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="5a0f6ca8-7805-47a4-8657-9ebcb7cb72b2" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Tony DeCocinis">Tony DeCocinis</a>, a veteran finance professional with extensive experience in higher education, has been named Associate Vice President for Finance at �鶹��Ƶ. His appointment concludes an extensive national search.</p><p>DeCocinis began his new role on March 18.</p><p>The AVP for Finance is a key leader within the <a href="/finance">Division of Finance and Administration</a>, which provides strategic direction, oversight, and partnership across all institutional finance functions. Within the division, the <a href="/finance-office">Finance Office</a> ensures compliance with generally accepted accounting principles, federal and state regulations, college policies, and business best practices.</p><p>Working collaboratively across the institution, the AVP plays a critical role in strengthening �鶹��Ƶ’s financial position through strategic planning, financial analysis, cost-effective and innovative approaches, high-quality budgeting and monitoring, debt management, accurate accounting and tax compliance, and meaningful reporting to support decision-making and benchmarking.</p><p>The AVP also ensures a strong system of internal controls through clear policies and procedures. In this role, DeCocinis will partner closely with the Vice President for Finance and Administration on long-term financial strategy and administration of institutional finances, including support for the Board of Trustees. The AVP also fosters cross-functional collaboration to advance financially sound policies, planning, and practices across the college.</p><p>DeCocinis is well-positioned to lead �鶹��Ƶ’s finance team and support the college’s long-term financial sustainability. He brings more than 12 years of experience in higher education administration and a deep understanding of the financial opportunities and challenges facing small liberal arts institutions. Most recently, he served as Vice President for Finance and Operations at York College of Pennsylvania, where he oversaw accounting and finance operations, investments, campus police, facilities and construction, human resources, and risk management.</p><p>During his tenure at York, DeCocinis led improvements to financial and administrative processes that increased operational efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced staff productivity. He redesigned the budget process to strengthen strategic alignment, advance mission fulfillment, and promote greater transparency. He also led the selection and implementation of a new human resources information system, budgeting software, and expense management system to modernize operations and strengthen institutional effectiveness.</p><p>Prior to York, DeCocinis served as Vice President for Finance and Administration at Dominican University of California and as Chief Financial Officer at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. He began his career in the private sector, holding positions of increasing leadership responsibility.</p><p>“I’m delighted to welcome Tony DeCocinis to �鶹��Ƶ,” says Julie Melvin, �鶹��Ƶ’s interim Vice President for Finance and Administration. “Tony’s wealth of experience and wide-ranging expertise will be pivotal assets in our strategic planning and stewardship of campus finances. I encourage everyone to extend a warm welcome as he begins this important work with us.”</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Key role provides strategic direction, oversight, and partnership across all areas of institutional finance. </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-03-24T12:00:00Z">Tue, 03/24/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones '97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Going Above and Beyond Diversity</h1> <p>anagy — Mon, 08 May 2023 19:15:27 +0000</p> <span>Going Above and Beyond Diversity</span> <span><span>anagy</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-05-08T15:15:27-04:00" title="Monday, May 8, 2023 - 15:15">Mon, 05/08/2023 - 15:15</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>In spring 2023, �鶹��Ƶ appointed <a href="/kristen-surla">Kristen Surla</a> as the institution’s first human resources director of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In this position, Surla plays a key role in promoting a culture of inclusive excellence and advancing strategic diversity hiring initiatives. </p> <p>Surla comes to �鶹��Ƶ from the University of Michigan, where she worked in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the School for Environment and Sustainability. At �鶹��Ƶ, she is primarily responsible for the recruitment and retention of faculty and staff from historically underrepresented backgrounds in higher education, supporting community building and retention efforts through affinity groups and mentoring programs, and offering professional development opportunities.</p> <p>Surla is no stranger to the �鶹��Ƶ community. From 2013-2016, she served as the Asian Pacific Islander Diaspora community coordinator in the Multicultural Resource Center (MRC), now known as the <a href="/mrc">Multicultural Resource Commons</a>. She went on to receive a master’s degree in education from Loyola University Chicago and is now working toward a PhD in higher, adult, and lifelong education from Michigan State University.</p> <p>In the following Q&A, Surla discusses her research interests, her approach to an inclusive work culture, and the factors that brought her back to �鶹��Ƶ.</p> <p><strong>First of all, welcome back to �鶹��Ƶ! Can you start by talking about your past role here and your career journey up to this point?</strong></p> <p>Thank you! I’ve felt a warm welcome back to the community by former and present colleagues. It feels like a homecoming to be back at both �鶹��Ƶ and the town at large. My position in the MRC was my first job following graduation from Loyola University with a bachelor’s in sociology and English. Beginning my career at �鶹��Ƶ was a formative start to understanding the ecology of liberal arts institutions of higher education. I learned a lot about how faculty and staff can create collaborative learning cultures with students in order to pursue research and teaching. </p> <p>I loved working at the MRC because of its intersectional approach to programming and working with our campus community. Programs such as “My Name is My Own”—a series that featured leaders talking about intersectional identities and the impact of their lived and professional identities on their fields—was really instructive in forming my approach to DEI work. The collaborative programs I hosted with the other community coordinators in the MRC helped me better serve a diverse student population whose identities weren’t siloed to individual groups. For example, although my title was the Asian Pacific Islander Diaspora (APID) coordinator, I was also working with LGBTQIA+, Africana, and Latinx populations around shared priorities, programming, and student support. Many of our students span multiple communities, so this kind of advising model made sense for that reason.</p> <p>After �鶹��Ƶ, I went to graduate school for my master’s and PhD. My research focuses on academic socialization, faculty culture, and curriculum development in environmental education. Specifically, my dissertation examines practices of decolonizing curriculum within environmental education and how these movements push to prioritize Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) voices, place-based learning, and policies that recognize the history of how colonialism and the Global North has dominated discourse and research in this field. I hope my contributions can continue to diversify the methods we use to teach environmental education and support more BIPOC students who are pursuing environmental studies.</p> <p><strong>Explain your role as director of diversity, equity, and inclusion.</strong></p> <p>I’d summarize the work I do as recruitment and retention of faculty and staff from historically underrepresented backgrounds in higher education, supporting community building and retention efforts through affinity groups and mentoring programs, and providing professional development opportunities. Some of the professional development I’d like to focus on includes inclusive hiring practices, shifting academic culture toward a more justice-oriented lens, and supporting the overall well-being of our faculty and staff. To do this work, I think we have to intentionally analyze, reflect, and propose creative approaches to expectations of work culture, processes, and procedures to support employees’ overall well-being. I’d like for us to admit the ways we could do better in supporting faculty and staff and to create solutions together. </p> <p><strong>How does this position fill a need at �鶹��Ƶ, and where will we see the impact?</strong></p> <p>I think �鶹��Ƶ has done a good job at starting to increase its compositional diversity, but we need to be thinking more about how we create inclusive environments where faculty and staff feel supported in the requirements and workloads they have for research, teaching, and service. A quote that stays with me about doing DEI work is that “admission does not mean acceptance, and acceptance does not mean welcome. To be truly welcoming, we have to commit to creating environments where people are empowered and supported to share their diverse experiences, perspectives, and identities." Essentially, what I interpret from this quote is that we have to go beyond compositional diversity and recruitment to create infrastructures of community building and honest conversations where we can talk about what is really needed for faculty and staff to feel supported in their full selves. Creating longevity and decreasing turnover among faculty and staff are important indicators of how well we’re doing as an institution at DEI work. </p> <p><strong>What are some of your goals and objectives?</strong></p> <p>As the inaugural HR director of DEI, I’m still developing a list of priorities through listening and collaborating with faculty and staff around campus. I always think that the most important thing to do first in a job is to listen to the people who have already been doing or want to propose DEI work that they’ve been waiting to see on campus.</p> <p>Some of my initial priorities focus on increasing recruitment and retention programs for faculty and staff from historically underrepresented backgrounds. In the upcoming academic year, I hope to collaborate with the college and conservatory in creating training programs for hiring managers and search committees to better recruit faculty and staff, and additional training on creating inclusive departmental cultures that incorporate DEI throughout processes. </p> <p><strong>What drew you back to �鶹��Ƶ?</strong></p> <p>After working at a lot of different institutional types—including mid-size, research, religiously affiliated—I found that liberal arts colleges such as �鶹��Ƶ best fit my personality and work style. I enjoy the brilliance and collaboration that occurs at �鶹��Ƶ between faculty, staff, and students on events and scholarship. I love being on a campus where there’s a large LGBTQIA+ community—that makes me feel at home. Also, I am impressed by the leadership of President Ambar in her <a href="/about-oberlin/presidential-initiative-racial-equity-and-diversity">Initiative for Racial Equity and Diversity</a>. Many of the components of the plan outline strategies forward that I think cut across academics, workplace retention and satisfaction, and overall improving student, faculty, and staff experiences from a DEI lens. This would not be possible if it wasn’t for President Ambar’s investment in these issues and my position in human resources. In collaboration with offices across campus, and in particular the MRC, I think we can get a lot done together. </p> <p><strong>What do you like to do in your free time?</strong></p> <p>I love gardening and building relationships with others through community garden work. I also enjoy exploring the Metroparks, hiking, kayaking, traveling, and writing poetry.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Recruitment, retention, and community building are priorities for �鶹��Ƶ's new director of diversity, equity, and inclusion.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2023-05-08T12:00:00Z">Mon, 05/08/2023 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Amanda Nagy</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2359">Administration</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3490">Presidential Initiative</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Kristen Surla, �鶹��Ƶ's inaugural director of diversity, equity, and inclusion.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones '97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>30 Years of Learning Through Service</h1> <p>anagy — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 18:56:54 +0000</p> <span>30 Years of Learning Through Service</span> <span><span>anagy</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-04-18T14:56:54-04:00" title="Tuesday, April 18, 2023 - 14:56">Tue, 04/18/2023 - 14:56</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>This spring, �鶹��Ƶ celebrates the 30th anniversary of the milestone program with a series of events for Bonner Scholars past and present, as well as a public exhibition on the program’s history and impact, on display on the main level of Mudd Center during <a href="/events/series/commencement-celebrations-calendar">Commencement weekend</a>. </p> <p>With 75 member schools nationwide, the Bonner Program stands apart from other national scholarships because it doesn’t stop at rewarding students' past service—it challenges and supports students to continue that service throughout college. Today, it is the largest privately funded, service-based college scholarship program in the country, providing access to high-need and underrepresented students. Each year, �鶹��Ƶ’s program welcomes 15 new scholars—about 60 current students at any given time. </p> <p>Brittnei Sherrod ’11, director of �鶹��Ƶ’s Bonner Scholars program and a Bonner alum—is guided by the foundation’s motto: “<a href="http://www.bonner.org/servicebased-scholarship-model">access to education, opportunity to serve</a>.”</p> <p>“Often when prospective students consider applying to the program, they question if their past experiences with service is enough,” Sherrod says. “I truly believe the program is for everyone. Anyone can have a strong commitment to service and connect with a community if they are given the time, resources, support, and knowledge. Even if a prospective student has not engaged in service, through the Bonner Program they will." </p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-left"> <figcaption>Bonner first-years at Cuyahoga Valley National Park.</figcaption> </figure> <p>Bonner Scholars is the flagship program of the Bonner Center, which emphasizes community-engagement opportunities for all students. Bonner’s Community Engagement Institute (formerly Day of Service), held annually during new-student orientation, connects first-year students with nonprofit and public-sector organizations in �鶹��Ƶ and the surrounding region.</p> <p>In recent years, the Bonner Center’s impact has grown through partnerships with organizations throughout Lorain County, community-based learning and research initiatives, and education programs in the Bonner Center. </p> <p><a href="/donna-russell">Donna Russell</a>, past director of �鶹��Ƶ’s Bonner Scholars from 2004 to 2010, has seen the program expand in scope and reach throughout the years, although its core principles remain unchanged.</p> <p>“The six Bonner Common Commitments—civic engagement, social justice, diversity, international perspective, spiritual exploration, and community building—have been the foundation of the Bonner Life 101 class for first-year scholars, as well as reflection activities and meetings,” says Russell, who is now an assistant dean for student support. </p> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>Bonner first-years participating in service-learning at Medwish in Cleveland.</figcaption> </figure> <p>Sherrod’s time as a Bonner Scholar helped shape her approach to balancing professional and personal life. She spent her four years working for the <a href="https://www.oberlinheritagecenter.org/">�鶹��Ƶ Heritage Center</a>, beginning as a docent, then as a researcher, and finally designing docent programming for teenagers. </p> <p>“The opportunity to work in the community fostered an appreciation for nonprofits and a belief in taking an active role in the community I live in. Since becoming a Bonner Scholar in 2007, I have served as board member of <a href="https://www.oberlinlibrary-thebridge.org/">The Bridge</a>, �鶹��Ƶ Heritage Center, and the <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/billlongfoundationorg/home?authuser=0">Bill Long Foundation</a>.</p> <p>“My favorite memories as a scholar and director are from bonding with fellow Bonners,” Sherrod says. “Whether on campus during an All-Bonner meeting to reflect on our experiences, sitting around a table at Cuyahoga Valley National Park to enjoy a meal cooked by fellow Bonners, or on another campus with Bonner Scholars from other schools, Bonner love builds strong bonds based on passion, hard work, and honesty. I feel fortunate to have experienced it both as a student and professional.”</p> <p>In recognition of Bonner’s milestone anniversary, some campus events in April and May are geared toward current scholars and community partners. Bonner alumni and the public are welcome to attend an open house during <a href="/events/series/commencement-celebrations-calendar">Commencement weekend</a>. </p> <p>Now in her second year as Bonner Scholars director, Sherrod says she is honored to recognize the program’s 30th anniversary at �鶹��Ƶ. </p> <p>“�鶹��Ƶ’s commitment to learning and labor is not just a historic mantra or confined to the circle around our logo. It is alive. It is practiced every day by the scholars enrolled and the 400 Bonners who have graduated from our program.” </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">�鶹��Ƶ’s Bonner Scholars Program honors a milestone anniversary with events recognizing community partners and the work of current scholars.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2023-04-18T12:00:00Z">Tue, 04/18/2023 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Amanda Nagy</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>�鶹��Ƶ’s <a href="/bcsl">Bonner Center for Community-Engaged Learning, Teaching, and Research</a> was founded in 1998 under the umbrella of the national <a href="http://www.bonner.org/">Bonner Foundation</a>. It followed the creation, five years earlier, of the Bonner Scholars Program, which guides the experiential learning of participating students through community-service scholarships.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2381">Bonner Center</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2390">Events</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2353">College Access</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">The Class of 2026 Bonner Scholars visit University Circle in Cleveland as part of their Bonner First-Year Trip.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Courtesy of the Bonner Center</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>�鶹��Ƶ Appoints Ted Evans as Director of Entrepreneurship and Instructor in Business</h1> <p>anagy — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 15:06:39 +0000</p> <span>�鶹��Ƶ Appoints Ted Evans as Director of Entrepreneurship and Instructor in Business</span> <span><span>anagy</span></span> <span><time datetime="2022-03-18T11:06:39-04:00" title="Friday, March 18, 2022 - 11:06">Fri, 03/18/2022 - 11:06</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>�鶹��Ƶ has selected Ted Evans as the new director of Entrepreneurship and Instructor in Business.</p> <p>Evans’ career reflects success in corporate, non-profit, academia, entrepreneurship, and management consulting with two top-tier global consulting firms. He has worked throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, and South America. He is an experienced industry professional, higher education practitioner, and management consultant who has 25 years of industry, education, and consulting experience as an executive with firms such as A.T. Kearney, Accenture, Aon Hewitt, and Grainger. He has consulted with and impacted several companies, including American Red Cross, Intel, General Electric, Siemens, Corning, Pfizer, Chevron, and Sara Lee. Through his work, Evans has interacted with and served various industries including distribution, finance, technology, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, and oil and gas.</p> <p>Prior to �鶹��Ƶ, he was a senior director of several key areas—admissions, recruitment, corporate relations, placement, fellowships, internships—at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. Immediately before CWRU, he served as an executive for a global technology commercialization management consulting firm where innovation, problem solving, and positive societal impact were basic to the role.</p> <p>Most notably, Evans is the namesake of the highly valuable and popular <a href="https://weatherhead.case.edu/events/ted-listens">TedListens</a> events and one-on-one sessions conducted at various educational institutions and corporations. TedListens brings a breadth of intellectual resources to individual students and professionals seeking business consultation, personal growth, connections/relationships, and interview/employment opportunities at firms around the country. These events often draw more than 100 participants to each session.</p> <p>Evans is very familiar with the values, teachings, and quality of students at �鶹��Ƶ College and the liberal arts curriculum. Not only has he worked closely with the Ohio 5 (<a href="https://ohio5.org/">Five Colleges of Ohio</a>) and met individually to assist those students, he led the signing of the 4+1 agreement between �鶹��Ƶ and Case Western Reserve University, enabling early graduate school admission and scholarships for �鶹��Ƶ students. </p> <p>Evans serves on the board of directors of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and the Great Lakes Science Center, whose organizations work to build sustainability, conservation, innovation, STEM, creativity, and social awareness. Prior to that he was on the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and Rainbows for All Children (serving children who have suffered traumatic loss in their life) board of directors.</p> <p>Evans has an MBA from Case Western Reserve University. He enjoys spending time with his family and staying physically and mentally active. As an undergraduate, he played football at the University of Kansas. </p> <p>Evans’ office is located in Wilder Hall 205, and he can be reached at 440-775-8962.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">An experienced industry professional, higher education practitioner, and management consultant, Evans is the namesake of the popular TedListens events.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2022-03-18T12:00:00Z">Fri, 03/18/2022 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2359">Administration</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2395">Entrepreneurship</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2363">Academics & Research</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Ted Evans is the new director of Entrepreneurship and Instructor in Business.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones '97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Staff and Alumni Use 3D Printing to Help Fight the Spread of COVID-19</h1> <p>hhempste — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 19:33:20 +0000</p> <span>Staff and Alumni Use 3D Printing to Help Fight the Spread of COVID-19</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2020-04-17T15:33:20-04:00" title="Friday, April 17, 2020 - 15:33">Fri, 04/17/2020 - 15:33</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Computer System Administrator Chris Mohler is no stranger to the world of 3D printing. During Winter Term 2019, Mohler even led <a href="/news/3d-printing-101-if-you-need-it-make-it">3D-Printing 101</a> with Cooper International Learning Center staff member <a href="/cilc/staff">Abe Reshad</a>. </p> <p>But suffice it to say, it’s not likely that Mohler foresaw running a 3D printing operation out of his home to produce components for much-needed personal protective equipment (PPE) for medical professionals. </p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Chris Mohler stands among the 3D printers in his basement. Photo courtesy of Chris Mohler</figcaption> </figure> <p>“There have been a lot of challenges involved in this project, and it's really pushed me—and these printers—to the limit,” says Mohler, who is running a fleet of eight printers from his basement to churn out approximately 30 headbands, daily. One printer is Mohler’s own, and the others are on loan through Reshad in the <a href="/cilc">Cooper International Language Lab</a>.</p> <p>Through efforts led by Lorain County Community College (LCCC) and its <a href="https://www.lorainccc.edu/campana/fab-lab/">Fab Lab</a> <span aria-hidden="true" class="fa fa-external-link"></span>, staff at �鶹��Ƶ have partnered to print the headband component of the face shields used by healthcare workers and others on the frontlines of the pandemic. The headbands are then delivered to the Lorain County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security for distribution.</p> <p>Mohler emphasizes that this is a joint effort that relies on a number of �鶹��Ƶ staff, including Fabrication Lab supervisor <a href="/rachel-smith">Rachel Smith</a>, who is also 3D printing headbands at her house, <a href="/jackie-fortino">Jackie Fortino</a>, who has sourced the PLA plastic filament used in printing and also does assembly, and <a href="/angela-szunyogh">Angela Szunyogh</a>, who delivers the headbands to LCCC.</p> <p>“It really is a team effort even though we are socially distancing and working from physically different areas, says Mohler. “It’s been fun dropping off the finished headbands at the college and then coming back a few days later to pick up the tote and find it’s filled with more 3D printing supplies.”</p> <p>Mohler says that he hopes this small effort can make a difference and inspire others to help. “I'm hoping that this effort ultimately saves lives by keeping doctors and nurses safe so they can help those who are sick with COVID-19. I also hope this project inspires others to try and help—even small efforts can make a big difference.” </p> <p><strong>Alumni Find New Use for 3D Printer</strong></p> <p>Lenore Braford ‘07, founder of <a href="http://piedmontrefuge.org/">Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge</a> <span aria-hidden="true" class="fa fa-external-link"></span> in Pittsboro, North Carolina, and husband Paul Drake ‘07, are using a 3D printer typically used to prototype prosthetics for rescued animals to instead create PPE for medical workers. </p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Staff and volunteers at Piedmont Farm Animal Rescue build PPE. <br> Photo credit: Courtesy of Lenore Bradford ‘07</figcaption> </figure> <p>“It’s easy to feel helpless against such an invisible threat as a virus,” says Bradford. “Having a goal of producing face shields helps us feel that we are contributing.”</p> <p>Bradford, Drake, and a group of farm volunteers are printing headbands for face shields and also creating face shields made with clear binding covers and a hole puncher. The components are sanitized and boxed up for use at Duke Regional Hospital, Duke VA Hospital, Laurels Senior Care Center, and other nearby locations including a funeral home, an emergency dentist, and an emergency veterinary clinic.</p> <p>“Our time at �鶹��Ƶ instilled the idea that every single person can make a positive difference in our world by the actions they take each day,” says Bradford. “That goes for how we treat our animal friends as well as how we will get through this pandemic. We are remaining positive and we know that together we will make it through this.”</p> <p><strong>Artist Alum Turned Face Shield Assembler </strong></p> <p>Artist Damon Hamm ‘95 typically works to create metal sculpture in the shared makerspace <a href="http://www.fatcatfablab.org/">Fat Cat Fab Lab</a> <span aria-hidden="true" class="fa fa-external-link"></span> in New York City’s West Village. Now he’s helping to create personal protective equipment for local hospitals.</p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Volunteers at Fat Cat Fab Lab assemble face shields. <br> Photo credit: Courtesy of Damon Hamm</figcaption> </figure> <p>“When I arrived at the makerspace on March 20, I saw two other members in the middle of what looked like a huge project. They heard about the lack of PPE in the hospitals and decided to do whatever they could. It was for such a good cause, I couldn't resist helping.”</p> <p>The group of makers Hamm works with is creating two versions of the face shields: one that is 3D printed, and another that is hand assembled. The group has also repurposed an industrial roll of food-grade biodegradable plastic that was originally used for thermoforming take out food containers and transformed it into face shields. </p> <p>Since beginning the efforts, they’ve teamed up with several other makerspaces in the area and formed a coalition called <a href="https://nycmakesppe.com/">nycmakesppe.com</a> <span aria-hidden="true" class="fa fa-external-link"></span> to share information and resources. They have also used donations to replenish their supply of raw materials and increase production capacity.</p> <p>As of April 16, 2020, the coalition has delivered nearly <a href="https://nycmakesppe.com/stats">17,000 items of PPE</a> <span aria-hidden="true" class="fa fa-external-link"></span> in the New York City area.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-04-17T12:00:00Z">Fri, 04/17/2020 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Hillary Hempstead</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>College staff and alumni are part of a growing number of individuals and entities using 3D printers to make personal protective equipment (PPE) for health care workers and others on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2368">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2385">Community</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2581">Cooper International Learning Center (CILC)</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25321">Computer Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25436">Studio Art</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/computer-science" hreflang="und">Computer Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/art" hreflang="und">Studio Art</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Computer System Administrator Chris Mohler is running a fleet of printers to produce headbands used in PPE. The first headband, shown here, was made on April 4, 2020.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Chris Mohler</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>New Hires in Center for Student Success View Their Roles Through Social Justice Lens</h1> <p>hhempste — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 15:36:57 +0000</p> <span>New Hires in Center for Student Success View Their Roles Through Social Justice Lens</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2017-11-13T10:36:57-05:00" title="Monday, November 13, 2017 - 10:36">Mon, 11/13/2017 - 10:36</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The concept of social justice is based on advocacy for human rights and equality for all. Both Eddie Gisemba, the new director of health promotion for students, and Brook Escobedo, the newest assistant dean of students, view their roles as key in helping realize that concept at �鶹��Ƶ.</p> <p>“Conversations about social justice often concentrate on equity in education and resources,” says Gisemba. “But health should also be part of the conversation. Lack of resources, such as quality food and health care, lead to poor health. If you’re not healthy enough, you can’t pursue opportunities.”</p> <p>Gisemba, who started in this role in October, sees himself as the first line of defense in addressing student wellness and health, beginning with prevention. And while he foresees collaboration with Student Health and the Counseling Center, he states that his approach to health and wellness is different. “With prevention being my focus, my goal is to keep students from getting sick. If I’m effective, it will reduce the need to utilize Student Health and the Counseling Center,” says Gisemba. </p> <p>A Cleveland native, Gisemba spent six years at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, where he spearheaded health promotion efforts before returning to his home state.</p> <p>“There’s a concept called ‘health equity,’ which proposes to eliminate some of those barriers to good health that exist in some subpopulations. As director of health promotion for students, I’ll be working to increase knowledge, access, and to break down myths—all in order to promote student health.”</p> <p>Gisemba notes that he will be taking time to acquaint himself with the campus, his colleagues, and students to better understand existing needs. However, he is clear that his focus will be on reducing irresponsible alcohol and drug use, preventing STIs and unplanned pregnancies, and smoking cessation. “Considering the unique stage in adulthood and the nuances of the college life, substance abuse and sexual health are health issues on most college campuses.” Mental health will also be a key area of focus.</p> <p>“College students, who are focused on classwork and other elements of the college experience, can put their health last,” says Gisemba. “That can mean a lot of stress, depression, and sleep deprivation.”</p> <p>Gisemba believes his charge extends beyond a student’s time at �鶹��Ƶ. “We’re here not only to address health for when they are in college, but also to address health for lifelong success.”</p> <p>Gisemba is most looking forward to meeting and interacting with students at �鶹��Ƶ, and he plans to seek student involvement as much as possible. “I want to bring students into the fold to come up with solutions together.”</p> <h5>Supporting Students’ Journeys Through College</h5> <p>As the daughter of a first-generation college student, Brook Escobedo understands the value of what it means for these students to be successful.</p> <p>“My dad was first generation. I know that without what he endured I wouldn’t be where I am now. My mom was from a rural area, so she also navigated college without a lot of help,” says Escobedo. “College is hard. I care about students and their success, and my work is all about serving students.”</p> <p>Previously on the admissions team at Middlebury College and the Middlebury Language Schools, Escobedo is well acquainted with a liberal arts environment. Prior to Middlebury, Escobedo worked for a nonprofit organization in Austin, Texas, where she supported first-generation, college-bound students on their path to college. At �鶹��Ƶ, Escobedo will continue that work, supporting first-generation students in her role as assistant dean of students.</p> <p>As part of the Student Academic Success Programs team, Escobedo will focus on retention efforts in the college. She will work closely with the <a href="https://new.oberlin.edu/office/student-academic-services/peer-mentors">Peer Mentors</a> program to build community and expand programming for first-generation and low-income students. Escobedo will also facilitate “success advising,” previously called “special advising” in the Center for Student Success. In addition, she serves as a SHARE dean, meeting with students as needed to support them through their �鶹��Ƶ experience. She will also be involved with medical leave process, ensuring students receive assistance and encouragement on departure and return.</p> <p>Escobedo notes that her work isn’t just about academics. It is also about anticipating the types of support students will need. To that end, she intends to help students navigate the college environment by raising awareness of the available resources to encourage students’ success at �鶹��Ƶ and beyond.</p> <p>“I’m excited to be working with students over a long period of time,” says Escobedo. “When I was working in admissions, it was harder to build long-term relationships with students. Now, I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to help students navigate their college years all the way to graduation. Building those relationships is part of what a liberal arts college is all about.”</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2017-11-13T12:00:00Z">Mon, 11/13/2017 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Hillary Hempstead</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Two new hires joined the ranks of the new Center for Student Success: Eddie Gisemba, director of health promotion for students, and Brook Escobedo, assistant dean of students in Student Academic Success Programs.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2401">Resources for Students</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Eddie Gisemba and Brook Escobedo are the newest staff members in the Center for Student Success. </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Jennifer Manna</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Q&A with Bara Watts</h1> <p>hhempste — Thu, 12 Oct 2017 13:15:33 +0000</p> <span>Q&A with Bara Watts</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2017-10-12T09:15:33-04:00" title="Thursday, October 12, 2017 - 09:15">Thu, 10/12/2017 - 09:15</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Bara Watts, director of entrepreneurship, joined the office of Creativity and Leadership in April 2017. Watts oversees academic courses, experiential learning opportunities, and initiatives such as <a href="/node/120226">LaunchU</a>, �鶹��Ƶ’s annual startup accelerator, boot camp, and pitch competition.</p> <p>Get to know more about Watts in this Q&A.</p> <p><strong>Describe your role in six words</strong><br> Impacting the world by training entrepreneurs.</p> <p><strong>What's your passion?</strong><br> My passion is driving opportunities that have a positive impact on individuals, community, and our environment. As a citizen of this planet and a member of humanity, I am energized when I feel I am providing some small positive contribution every day.</p> <p><strong>What’s the best advice someone gave you?</strong><br> The best advice I've received is "Don't give up before the miracle." Two aspects of my life have presented me significant challenges. I love trying to tackle what seems to be impossible, and I have faced some personal tragedies. There have been times when I wanted to give up. But remembering this advice, I was able to forge ahead and receive amazing miracles.</p> <p><strong>What’s the last book you read?</strong><br> The most recent book was <em>A Man Called Ove</em>, by Fredrik Backman. After traveling to Stockholm this past March, I've been focused on reading Swedish or Nordic authors. This was a charming story with a witty bit of black humor—which I love. There were times I laughed out loud, and I must admit I cried at the end. Totally worth the read.</p> <p><strong>Have you had a brush with anyone famous?</strong><br> When I was in college at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., I had a "Forrest Gump" experience. I had a roommate who was working for Midge Costanza, top aide to President Jimmy Carter. I would occasionally meet my roommate for lunch at the White House. One time, while eating my peanut butter and jelly sandwich, I witnessed President Carter and Egypt’s president, Anwar Sadat, walking and talking on the White House grounds. Of course, it was around the time that Presidents Carter and Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin developed the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty.</p> <p><strong>What's one thing most people don't know about you?</strong><br> My undergraduate degree is in dance. Following college, I went to New York where I founded a dance school and small dance company and choreographed for organizations like the Japanese broadcasting company. I also had a night club singing act with my partner Rene Greyer. We sang swing music in tight harmony and were called Watts-Greyer.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2017-10-12T12:00:00Z">Thu, 10/12/2017 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>“Q&A with…” is a series dedicated to introducing staff members to the �鶹��Ƶ community. We are highlighting one staff member each week. Have someone you'd like to nominate for a Q&A? Please <a href="mailto:oncampus@oberlin.edu?subject=Staff%20Q%26A%20Request">get in touch</a>.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2354">Campus Life</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2395">Entrepreneurship</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Bara Watts, director of entrepreneurship.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones '97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>TIMARA Honors Longtime Engineer with Concerts and More Mar. 2-4</h1> <p>eburnett — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 18:44:43 +0000</p> <span>TIMARA Honors Longtime Engineer with Concerts and More Mar. 2-4</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2017-04-28T14:44:43-04:00" title="Friday, April 28, 2017 - 14:44">Fri, 04/28/2017 - 14:44</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>John Talbert was asked recently to serve up a résumé highlighting his career. It didn't happen.</p> <p>The last résumé Talbert needed was created on a typewriter in the 1970s. If he were to have one today, he’s not even sure what it would say.</p> <p>“I’m not a faculty person who goes around and does concerts and performs pieces and gets awards,” he says in his typically understated manner. “I’m sort of the wizard behind the curtain.”</p> <p>Now 40 years into his wizardry, Talbert is set to retire this spring from the only job he ever craved: electronic music engineer in �鶹��Ƶ’s <a href="http://www.timara.oberlin.edu/">TIMARA</a> department. In that capacity, he has been a pioneer in marrying analog and digital technologies, he has created a multitude of unique electronic instruments, fixed what was broken, updated what was outdated, and taught generations of students who came through the program. And he learned from them as well. Through it all, he has maintained a voracious appetite for new technology.</p> <p>“That’s what was so cool about the job,” he says through a grin: “Every year it was a <i>new</i> job. Every year things changed.</p> <p>“There were some years where you would maybe say, ‘Let’s hold off on the new technology. Let me catch my breath.’ But then you would have students who come in and say, ‘Check this out! We’ve gotta get this!'”</p> <p>This week, TIMARA will host a series of concerts and a reception in honor of Talbert, with numerous former students and faculty—including longtime TIMARA professor Gary Lee Nelson—returning to campus. Though Talbert is unmistakably honored by the outpouring, it's exactly the sort of fuss that the unassuming engineer never would have invited.</p> <p>He pauses when asked about it all, then musters only this in response: "It'll be fun to see all the folks."</p> <p><b>The schedule of events is as follows (all are free and open to the public):</b></p> <p><b>Thursday, March 2</b><br> <a href="https://calendar.oberlin.edu/event/timara_guest_recital_bevin_kelley_and_travis_johns#.WLBV2xDii-c">8 p.m. concert by Travis Johns ’04 and TIMARA faculty in Clonick Hall.</a></p> <p><b>Friday, March 3</b><br> <a href="https://calendar.oberlin.edu/event/john_talbert_retirement_presentation#.WLBWUxDii-c">4 p.m. reception for Talbert in Clonick Hall.</a></p> <p><a href="https://calendar.oberlin.edu/event/timara_studios_open_house#.WLBWihDii-c">8 p.m. open house in the TIMARA studios, featuring installations and instruments from returning alumni.</a></p> <p><b>Saturday, March 4</b><br> <a href="https://calendar.oberlin.edu/event/timara_concert#.WLBW9BDii-c">1:30 p.m. concert in Stull Hall featuring performances by Associate Professor of Integrated Media Julia Christensen, Kyle Hartzell from the �鶹��Ƶ Center for Technologically Enhanced Teaching, Patrick Richardson '04, and others.</a></p> <p><a href="https://calendar.oberlin.edu/event/timara_concert_6947#.WLBXPhDii-c">3 p.m. concert in Stull Hall featuring music by Aaron Dilloway, Paulina Velázquez Solis, and current and former TIMARA faculty JooWon Park and Gary Lee Nelson.</a></p> <p><a href="https://calendar.oberlin.edu/event/timara_concert_2094#.WLBX-hDii-c">8 p.m. concert in Fairchild Chapel featuring performances by Hunter Brown '17, Peter Blasser '02, Travis Johns '04, and Sarah Snider.</a></p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2017-02-24T12:00:00Z">Fri, 02/24/2017 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Erich Burnett</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2356">Conservatory</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=33031">TIMARA</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/conservatory/divisions/contemporary-music" hreflang="und">Contemporary Music</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Erich Burnett</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> </main></body></html>