�鶹��Ƶ Adds Sport Studies and Management Integrative Concentration</h1> <article> <h1>�鶹��Ƶ Adds Sport Studies and Management Integrative Concentration</h1> <p>azaleski — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:35:59 +0000</p> <span>�鶹��Ƶ Adds Sport Studies and Management Integrative Concentration</span> <span><span>azaleski</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-12-01T12:35:59-05:00" title="Monday, December 1, 2025 - 12:35">Mon, 12/01/2025 - 12:35</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Sport is many things: a vehicle for personal inspiration and identity formation, a catalyst for social change, an economic driver, and a contributor to health and well-being. Given all this, sport is also the perfect way to explore social, cultural, and political phenomena from an interdisciplinary perspective. </p><p>That’s the foundation of �鶹��Ƶ’s new integrative concentration in <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/sport-studies-and-management" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="3948cc9d-bbda-48c0-9ccd-0909b149538a" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Sport Studies and Management">sport studies and management</a>. Launching in fall 2026, the program examines sport at every level—from tee ball to the Olympics—through a multifaceted lens.</p><p>“With this integrative concentration, �鶹��Ƶ is putting a genuinely unique twist on the field of sport study,” says Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences David Kamitsuka. “By integrating classroom and experiential learning—and approaching sport via a combination of data analysis, critical thinking, and historical study—students will have a deeper understanding of this complex and potentially transformative global force.”<br><br>Students enrolled in the sport studies and management integrative concentration are required to take courses in statistics or <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/data-science">data science</a> and in <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/history">history</a> or <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/sociology">sociology</a>—and then choose electives in related fields like <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/journalism">journalism</a>, documentary filmmaking, business, <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/psychology">psychology</a>, <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/dance">dance</a>, and marketing. <br><br>In true �鶹��Ƶ liberal arts fashion, these classes place sport in context with other fields of study. For example, the course Moneyball (and Pucks): Sports Economics underscores how an economist acts as a social scientist when making decisions for individuals, teams, and communities. Sport, Power, and Society meanwhile, uses historical and current events to examine how we use individual and collective power to create communities in and beyond sports.</p><p>“This integrative concentration allows students to connect their personal experiences and interests in sport and physical activity to their academic interests,” says <a href="/jo-line">Jo Line ’11</a>, co-chair of the integrative concentration alongside William G. Smith Associate Professor of Sociology and Comparative American Studies <a href="/alicia-smith-tran">Alicia Smith-Tran ’10</a>. <br><br>“Students will have the opportunity to explore how academic expertise in a variety of disciplines can prepare them for professional opportunities in the sport industry. They’ll also be empowered to consider how seemingly ordinary activities are implicated in larger societal issues and questions.”</p><figure role="group" class="image_resized align-left"> <div class="media-embed-resized" style="width:350px;"> </div> <figcaption>Jo Line ’11 leads classroom discussion on Sport, Power, and Society. <em>Photo credit: Amanda Phillips </em></figcaption> </figure> <p>The integrative concentration also requires students to engage in hands-on experiences outside the classroom. For example, as part of the Introduction to Sport Studies and Management course, students will participate in a community-based learning project that will involve several of Northeast Ohio’s sport organizations. <br><br>“�鶹��Ƶ is lucky to be in a region with a rich community of sports nonprofit organizations and professional sports teams,” adds Line, who is program director of community-engaged research and learning and a lecturer of <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/comparative-american-studies">Comparative American Studies</a>. “This gives students the opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom, build community across the region, learn from community members about the meaning that sport has in their lives, and explore a wide range of careers.”</p><p>For Rachel Reiter ’28, who’s double-majoring in <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/business">business</a> and <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/jewish-studies">Jewish studies</a>, this integrative concentration “gives me an academic home for the sports-centered work I have already been doing across many departments at �鶹��Ƶ,” she says. “From broadcasting games to studying sports marketing and Jewish athletes in the NCAA, to examining the role of sport in historical contexts—sports are the lens through which I understand the world.” <br><br>Reiter, who also plays lacrosse and works in the <a href="https://goyeo.com/">Athletics</a> Communications office at �鶹��Ƶ, adds that the concentration will provide her with the structure and mentorship she needs as she prepares for a future career in sports law. “I am especially looking forward to learning how the sports industry operates from a variety of perspectives and building the foundation and connections I need to enter the field with confidence.”<br><br>�鶹��Ƶ’s <a href="/center-engaged-liberal-arts/integrative-concentrations">integrative concentrations</a> complement but do not replace majors and are open to students in both the conservatory and the college who are looking to pursue academic passions alongside their other coursework. </p><p>For more information about all of �鶹��Ƶ’s academic offerings, visit <a href="http://www.oberlin.edu/">oberlin.edu</a>.</p><hr><p><strong>ABOUT OBERLIN COLLEGE AND CONSERVATORY:</strong> Since its founding in 1833, �鶹��Ƶ has led the nation in its commitment to educational access and opportunity. �鶹��Ƶ was the first U.S. college to adopt a policy of admitting Black students and granting undergraduate degrees to women alongside men.</p><p>Located at the heart of a bucolic Northeast Ohio town, �鶹��Ƶ uniquely combines an outstanding pre-professional school of music with a leading undergraduate college of arts and sciences. �鶹��Ƶ students hail from nearly every U.S. state and more than 50 nations. Our alumni include 15 MacArthur “Genius Grant” Fellows, four Nobel Laureates, nine Pulitzer Prize recipients, and countless Grammy Award winners. In the last century, more graduates of �鶹��Ƶ have gone on to earn PhDs than any other liberal arts institution. </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Launching in fall 2026, the experiential program considers sport as a social institution and cultural phenomenon</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="2025-12-02T12:00:00Z">Tue, 12/02/2025 - 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=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">�鶹��Ƶ students tour Progressive Field, home of the Cleveland Guardians. Cleveland also boasts NFL and NBA teams, with a WNBA franchise set to launch in 2028.</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">Mike Crupi</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>The Power of Community</h1> <p>azaleski — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 16:50:37 +0000</p> <span>The Power of Community</span> <span><span>azaleski</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-08-18T12:50:37-04:00" title="Monday, August 18, 2025 - 12:50">Mon, 08/18/2025 - 12:50</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Growing up in �鶹��Ƶ a stone’s throw from the college athletic complex, Lauren Sands ’24 was familiar with the <a href="https://goyeo.com/sports/womens-volleyball">volleyball</a> program.</p><p>When she decided to attend �鶹��Ƶ, the close-knit community was exactly what she needed to thrive. </p><p>“I thought I wanted to leave my hometown for college. But I knew that playing for �鶹��Ƶ would be a good experience, and I knew it would feel like home.”</p><p>Together with her “focused and dedicated” teammates, she led �鶹��Ƶ’s volleyball team to their first-ever winning season during her senior year. “We were like, ‘It's now or never,’” she recalls. “‘This is our chance to do something, and we know we can do it.’”</p><p>Off the courts, Sands found ways to become a mentor herself. After watching friends in �鶹��Ƶ City Schools transform with the support of the <a href="/bcsl/programs/ninde-scholars">Ninde Scholars</a>, Sands applied to the same program as a paid employee. </p><p>"Being able to go back into schools where I used to be a student and support students there was an awesome experience," she said. She even spent a summer helping students “gain real-world skills” by cooking nostalgic favorites, like homemade Pop Tarts and Cheez-It crackers.</p><p>After graduation, Sands wanted to continue supporting her community and landed on voter engagement work as a pathway toward working in service and policy. She took on the role of Democracy Fellow at the Human Service Chamber (HSC) of Franklin County in Columbus, Ohio.</p><p>"It's shown me the other side of work that helps people," said Sands of her time at HSC. "I had always envisioned that work [as] providing services like tutoring, for example, or having that one-on-one interaction. This is showing me how policy impacts people, and how policy can be used to help or hurt certain communities.”</p><p>Sands is now a policy associate, which she explains requires “writing updates on policy developments that could affect nonprofits, creating advocacy tools, like sign-on letters to our members of Congress, and anything that we can do to spread awareness about what we hope to see in public policy developments.”</p><p>Sands credits her <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/sociology">sociology major</a> and <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/africana-studies">Africana Studies minor</a> for providing her “a really solid foundation for understanding the different social issues that are present in a big city” like Columbus.</p><p>“I'm working with nonprofits who are addressing so many different social issues,” she adds. “Understanding why these issues may have come to be has been really rewarding coming right out of college into this role.”</p><p>Most rewarding of all, perhaps, is the sense of community Sands has discovered in her work and in Columbus. Although she’s now living in a much bigger place, she’s thrilled to find the same closeness she grew up with in �鶹��Ƶ. </p><p>“I didn't know how I'd be able to find that community,” Sands says. "But I've definitely found it in the nonprofit sector in Columbus."</p><hr><p><em>Kristen Evans is a culture writer and critic who has written for</em> BuzzFeed, The Boston Globe, The Los Angeles Times, LA Weekly, NYLON, <em>and</em> The New Republic. <em>Learn more about studying </em><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/sociology" target="_blank"><em>sociology </em></a><em>at �鶹��Ƶ.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">For Lauren Sands ’24, volleyball and mentorship have paved the way for a career in public policy.</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="2025-08-18T12:00:00Z">Mon, 08/18/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Kristen Evans</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=2360">After �鶹��Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</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=25431">Sociology</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/sociology" hreflang="und">Sociology</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Sands credits her sociology major and Africana Studies minor for providing her “a really solid foundation for understanding the different social issues that are present in a big city” like Columbus, where she now lives.</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 Lauren Sands</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Teamwork For the Win</h1> <p>azaleski — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:51:59 +0000</p> <span>Teamwork For the Win</span> <span><span>azaleski</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-08-07T12:51:59-04:00" title="Thursday, August 7, 2025 - 12:51">Thu, 08/07/2025 - 12:51</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>As the end of regular minor league baseball season looms, Alexis Dill ’20 is buzzing about this year’s inductees into the Worcester Red Sox (WooSox) Hall of Fame, including renowned ballpark planner Janet Marie Smith. </p><p>It’s not the only thing on the Avon, Ohio, native’s plate: As director of public relations and community relations for the team, Dill is busy writing press releases, drafting in-game scripts, planning ballpark entertainment, coordinating earned media, and executing pre-game ceremonies.</p><p>Luckily, Dill, who is in her fourth season with the WooSox, the AAA affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, is a natural team player—a skill she developed in two distinctly different ways at �鶹��Ƶ: as a four-year member and two-time captain of the <a href="https://goyeo.com/sports/softball">�鶹��Ƶ softball team</a> and as an editor at<em> The �鶹��Ƶ Review</em>. </p><p>An aspiring journalist, Dill pursued a major in <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/english" target="_blank">English</a> and a minor in <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/writing-and-communication" target="_blank">rhetoric</a> and joined the student-led newspaper at the suggestion of her academic advisor, Emeritus Professor of English T.S. McMillin. She rose through the ranks at <em>The �鶹��Ƶ Review</em>, eventually working as both a sports and news editor, and also contributed columns. Early in her tenure, she wrote about the bond she forged with her father, Brad Dill ’86 (himself a former captain of the �鶹��Ƶ baseball team) due to their shared love of baseball. </p><p>“Writing for <em>The �鶹��Ƶ Review</em> was life-changing,” Dill says. Among other things, collaborating with a diverse group of peers who took pride in their words inspired her to dive further into the world of communications, earning internships with <em>The Chronicle-Telegram</em>, the Cape Cod Baseball League, and USA Baseball. </p><p>Being named one of three softball team captains during her third year proved equally game-changing. “I'm not sure I would have had the knowledge or confidence to lead a team in my professional life without that experience,” says Dill, who represented �鶹��Ƶ on a panel of eight NCAA Division III athletes at the 2019 College Sports Communicators Convention. </p><p>Speaking in front of 300 collegiate athletic directors was scary, but Dill embraced the challenge. “�鶹��Ƶ taught me that the best way to grow and to succeed is to step out of my comfort zone,” she says. </p><figure role="group" class="image_resized align-left"> <div class="media-embed-resized" style="width:471px;"> </div> <figcaption>Dill (right) at work alongside her role model, WooSox general manager and executive vice president Brooke Cooper.</figcaption> </figure> <p>Keen on maximizing her liberal arts degree, Dill also took courses in art history, religion, and neurology, all of which challenged her to become “more well-rounded,” think critically, and hold multiple perspectives at once. </p><p>Her overall experience at �鶹��Ƶ was just as rewarding. “Meeting people from across the country and around the world, with diverse perspectives and backgrounds, opened my mind to the opportunities surrounding me,” she says, noting she also felt more empowered to take on speaking engagements and public appearances she was offered. </p><p>Being open to opportunity also came in handy after Dill enrolled in Emerson College’s master of arts in public relations program after graduation. Her very first professor was Dr. Charles Steinberg, the president of the Worcester Red Sox. At his invitation, she accepted a job as public relations coordinator upon completing the master’s program.</p><p>Today, Dill leads a team of three full-time and five part-time employees in the WooSox front office. In July 2025, following a screening of <em>See Her, Be Her</em>, a feature-length documentary about the role women and girls play in shaping the future of baseball, Dill sat on an all-star panel, fielding questions about how to increase participation.</p><p>“Women in leadership positions must pay it forward by modeling for those who follow in their footsteps that rising to the executive level in sports, and having a family if they so choose, is possible,” says Dill, pointing to her own role model, WooSox general manager/executive vice president Brooke Cooper, the first woman to lead a Red Sox franchise.</p><p>The fun of reporting to work in a ballpark aside, Dill says her proudest accomplishment remains graduating from �鶹��Ƶ. “�鶹��Ƶ’s small size allowed me to seize opportunities—from building close relationships with professors to becoming sports editor of the collegiate newspaper—that exposed me to incredible people and opened the world to me.”</p><hr><p><em>Hannah Van Sickle is a former educator turned storyteller who has written for</em> Parents, Business Insider, SheKnows, Refinery29, and Modern Loss. </p><p><em>Learn more about �鶹��Ƶ's </em><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/writing-and-communication"><em>Communication Studies</em></a><em> major, which helps students develop the written, oral, and digital storytelling and communication skills to engage with all kinds of audiences effectively. </em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Alexis Dill ’20 grew up a Cleveland Guardians fan. Now she’s using her communication skills to promote the Worcester Red Sox.</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="2025-08-08T12:00:00Z">Fri, 08/08/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Hannah Van Sickle</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=2360">After �鶹��Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4263">Communication Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Alexis Dill '20 is in her fourth season with the Worcester Red Sox, the AAA affiliate of the Boston Red Sox.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pull-images field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yes</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-cte-images field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yes (Individual Images)</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 Alexis Dill '20</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>Knocking It Out Of The Park</h1> <p>dfrezza — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:40:11 +0000</p> <span>Knocking It Out Of The Park</span> <span><span>dfrezza</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-04-24T11:40:11-04:00" title="Thursday, April 24, 2025 - 11:40">Thu, 04/24/2025 - 11:40</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Last fall, Max Anastasio ’23 set himself a goal to find a new job in 2025. That ambition became a reality in February when he was hired by the Cincinnati Reds.</p> <p>“I just had my whole life picked up and rustled around,” he says. "I got the job offer and I packed all my stuff up, moved back home, and caught a flight out to Arizona for spring training.”</p> <p>Max has recently begun his first season as a performance affiliate coach for the Reds, working in tandem with the organization’s player development and sports science departments.</p> <p>“In my performance coach role, I do athlete monitoring,” he explains. “I’ll be in the weight room doing strength testing on players; we do a lot of grip strength and jump testing. I work with them to get those measurements and do reports to make sure that our athletes are not only staying healthy but also progressing. I’m also able to be on the field in full uniform and do the coaching aspect.” </p> <p>Max played first base for �鶹��Ƶ College’s varsity baseball team and continued his college sports career as he earned his MBA at Baldwin Wallace University. He’s delighted to be working in professional baseball now, calling the opportunity “a gift.”</p> <p>“I’m so lucky to have even been given this offer,” he says. “The coaching side of the job requires a lot of rapport that you need to build up with players, so working on that will make for a fun season of learning. I’ve been learning from the other coaches who have so much experience and have done this a million times before me, so I’ve been trying to soak up information from them.”</p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Max Anastasio, in his Cincinnati Reds uniform,<br> works for the organization both on and off the field.</figcaption> </figure> <p>Max’s position also requires him to play an analytical role, which he enjoys. </p> <p>“I pull the data of all the strength training we’ve ever collected on players and cross-reference that across similar position groups,” he says. “I can look at a player’s history and see how they’ve progressed during their time in the organization. So my main concern has been data-oriented: Are our players getting better at the rate we want them to get better?”</p> <p>Max got an introduction to this skill set during his time at �鶹��Ƶ. As an <a href="/node/3386">economics</a> and <a href="/node/3196">environmental studies</a> double major, he got his first taste of coding languages and data analysis in associate professor <a href="/node/43971">Paul Brehm</a>’s classroom.</p> <p>“Professor Brehm was such an awesome professor to have,” he says. “What I really enjoy about econ is the data analysis. I took his environmental economics and energy economics courses and those were what I enjoyed the most.” </p> <p>In true Obie fashion, Max is dedicated to growth and improvement, and believes camaraderie brings joint success.</p> <p>“I want to build up that rapport, résumé, and wealth of knowledge in my own head so I can be of use to the athletes I work with,” he says. “I want to keep developing myself and promoting my professional development for the foreseeable future.”</p> <p>Max also imparts some advice he learned from a grad school mentor, who discouraged him from accepting any career that felt like settling or compromising. </p> <p>“You could be making a sacrifice that you don’t necessarily want to make,” he says. “Do exactly what you want to do and don’t concede an inch on that.”</p> <hr> <p><em>If you’re excited about everything the future has in store, check out <a href="/node/4521">Career Exploration and Development</a> to learn how �鶹��Ƶ can help you turn your passions into a fulfilling career.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">From studying economics to MLB coaching, Max Anastasio '23 is paving his way with perseverance.</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="2025-04-28T12:00:00Z">Mon, 04/28/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Danielle Frezza</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=2360">After �鶹��Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4095">Environmental Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4299">Baseball</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4300">MBA</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4301">Grad School</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/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/environmental-studies" hreflang="und">Environmental Studies and Science</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">Steve Schooner</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Homecoming and Reunion 2023: The Weekend in Pictures</h1> <p>jstrauss — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 19:27:20 +0000</p> <span>Homecoming and Reunion 2023: The Weekend in Pictures</span> <span><span>jstrauss</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-10-16T15:27:20-04:00" title="Monday, October 16, 2023 - 15:27">Mon, 10/16/2023 - 15:27</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Obie alums spanning generations returned for Homecoming and Reunion at the tail end of September. The gorgeous autumn weekend provided a fitting backdrop for festive celebrations all over campus: performances by conservatory musicians and others, catching up with old friends, dropping in on favorite spots, taking part in classes and reunion cluster activities, mixing with current students, cheering on our athletic teams, and basking in the glow of Illumination and fireworks.</p> <p>Following are a few highlights from the weekend’s festivities. Find many more on our official <a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAXa4C">Flickr page</a>.</p> <p>See yourself or Obie friends? Tell us about it at <a href="mailto:alum.mag@oberlin.edu?subject=Memories%20of%20Homecoming%202023...">alum.mag@oberlin.edu</a>!</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Alums from near and far returned for three days of all things Obie.</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="2023-10-16T12:00:00Z">Mon, 10/16/2023 - 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=3346">Advancement</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3902">Homecoming</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2394">Commencement/Reunion Weekend</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2368">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2356">Conservatory</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">There were smiles for miles at Homecoming and Reunion Weekend.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-cte-images field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yes (Gallery Style)</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">Marti Hwang</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-flex-content field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden vertical-spacing--basic field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <div id="obj-33584" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-cont-img-section paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images photoswipe-gallery"> <div class="o-flex--basic-copy basic-copy"> <div class="image-grid image-grid--single-caption pull"> <div id="obj-31742" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-image-row paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <div class="image-row"> <div class="image-row__images" data-cols="3"> <div id="obj-29945" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/homecoming_reunion_compressed-05.jpg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="1024" data-pswp-height="681"> </a> </figure> </div> <div id="obj-29946" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/homecoming_reunion_compressed-04_0.jpg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="1024" data-pswp-height="681"> </a> </figure> </div> <div id="obj-29947" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/homecoming_reunion_compressed-02_0.jpg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="1024" data-pswp-height="681"> </a> </figure> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="obj-31743" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-image-row paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <div class="image-row"> <div class="image-row__images" data-cols="3"> <div id="obj-29948" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/homecoming_reunion_compressed-06_0.jpg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="1024" data-pswp-height="681"> </a> </figure> </div> <div id="obj-29949" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/oberlin_orchestra_homecoming_reunion_weekend-143.jpg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="5000" data-pswp-height="3333"> </a> </figure> </div> <div id="obj-29950" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/homecoming_reunion_compressed-01_1.jpg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="1024" data-pswp-height="681"> </a> </figure> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="obj-31744" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-image-row paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <div class="image-row"> <div class="image-row__images" data-cols="3"> <div id="obj-29951" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/homecoming_reunion_compressed-09_1.jpg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="1024" data-pswp-height="681"> </a> </figure> </div> <div id="obj-29952" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/homecoming_reunion_compressed-08_0.jpg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="1024" data-pswp-height="681"> </a> </figure> </div> <div id="obj-29953" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/20230930_illumination_abefrato_3_large.jpeg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="1280" data-pswp-height="854"> </a> </figure> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="obj-31745" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-image-row paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <div class="image-row"> <div class="image-row__images" data-cols="3"> <div id="obj-29956" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/img_6721.jpg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="5184" data-pswp-height="3456"> </a> </figure> </div> <div id="obj-29955" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/23-09-30_contact_and_first_half_of_banquet_photos_alumni_weekend_jonathan_clark_028.jpeg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="6048" data-pswp-height="4024"> </a> </figure> </div> <div id="obj-29957" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--photoswipe-images"> <figure> <a href="/sites/default/files/content/figure/5th_cluster_at_slow_train-18.jpg" class="photoswipe" data-pswp-width="5000" data-pswp-height="3333"> </a> </figure> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="figcaption"> <div class="figure__caption"> <p>Scenes from �鶹��Ƶ’s Homecoming Reunion Weekend: September 29-October 1, 2023.</p> </div> <div class="figure__credit"> Photo credit: Marti Hwang, Jonathan Clark, Cady Hurlbert, Yevhen Gulenko </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Change Agent</h1> <p>tapplega — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 15:27:08 +0000</p> <span>Change Agent</span> <span><span>tapplega</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-09-19T11:27:08-04:00" title="Tuesday, September 19, 2023 - 11:27">Tue, 09/19/2023 - 11:27</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Jesse Kohler ’16 set foot in �鶹��Ƶ with a dream of baseball stardom. But like the unpredictable curveballs he threw from the mound, life directed him toward a path of public service, and the baseball enthusiast evolved into a beacon for community and national advocacy that took shape through his major in <a href="/node/3396">law and society</a>.</p> <p>Kohler hails from the outskirts of Philadelphia, where he was intimately exposed to the challenges many families face in raising children and making ends meet. Witnessing these difficulties up close fueled his desire to make a tangible impact and ultimately led him to pursue a career informed by trauma-informed care, a medical framework through which providers aim to connect with people who face negative consequences from past experiences. </p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-left"> <figcaption>Jesse Kohler pitched for three seasons on the �鶹��Ƶ baseball team.</figcaption> </figure> <p>�鶹��Ƶ’s culture of advocacy left an indelible mark on Kohler. “I came with cleats and gloves, thinking the field was where I’d shine,” he says. But the fertile sociopolitical climate on campus began to shape his aspirations. “Transitioning from my introductory <a href="/node/3366">psychology</a> classes to the depth of the law and society major broadened my horizons.”</p> <p>We caught up with Kohler to learn how his work at �鶹��Ƶ led to a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that employs scientific research to improve overall well-being among challenged populations.</p> <p><strong>What are you doing these days?</strong></p> <p>I’m the founder and president of The Change Campaign, a nonprofit birthed from my senior project at �鶹��Ƶ. The campaign also works with government agencies and other organizations that have similar goals. Because of my work with The Change Campaign, I was selected as the executive director for the <a href="https://www.ctipp.org/">Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice</a> (CTIPP), a nationwide organization trying to create a resilient society by addressing the injustices that cause poor health and supporting the integration of resilience-building and healing activities.</p> <p>Apart from this, I’m on the board of the National Prevention Science Coalition to Improve Lives (NPSC) and an advisor for the Compassionate School Leadership Academy (CSLA) at Yale. My main aim is fostering a sustainable planet and a hopeful future. Early in my career, I’ve emphasized leadership that’s community-led, trauma-informed, and resilience-focused.</p> <p><strong>What led you down this career path?</strong></p> <p>My initial dream was to be a professional baseball player. My academic leanings were toward <a href="/node/3411">neuroscience</a>, <a href="/node/3366">psychology</a>, and <a href="/node/3391">political science</a>. However, my grades in Psych 100 challenged this path. Consequently, the law and society program at �鶹��Ƶ caught my attention, offering a blend of multiple disciplines and the chance of law school. My interest in the school-to-prison pipeline [the higher likelihood of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds being incarcerated] began here, and it led me to my work at an educational nonprofit. This, in turn, resulted in a master’s in educational leadership from Arcadia University and an influential internship with the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General.</p> <p><strong>What facets of your work are you most proud of?</strong></p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Kohler speaking at the Council for Tribal Employment Rights conference.</figcaption> </figure> <p>Supporting the development of CTIPP’s programs that have enabled some of those policy wins are some of the most rewarding experiences of my career thus far. I learned so much working alongside trauma-informed leaders throughout the United States to create programs that fill unmet needs in the field. I have been fortunate to have played a significant role in the development of CTIPP’s Community Advocacy Network (CTIPP CAN) to organize trauma-informed advocates across the country; PressOn envisions an infrastructure to connect and mobilize federal to state to local collaborations to propel the community-led, trauma-informed, prevention-oriented, resilience-focused, and healing-centered movement forward; and Ideas Lab, which promotes tools and resources to build the movement.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">How a senior project at �鶹��Ƶ became a life calling for Jesse Kohler.</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="2023-09-19T12:00:00Z">Tue, 09/19/2023 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tyler Applegate</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=2360">After �鶹��Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2368">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2382">Community Service</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3897">Internship</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=25286">Psychology</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25396">Law and Society</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25416">Politics</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/psychology" hreflang="und">Psychology</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/law-and-society" hreflang="und">Law and Society</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/politics" hreflang="und">Politics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pull-images field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yes</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-cte-images field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yes (Gallery Style)</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 Jesse Kohler</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-flex-content field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden vertical-spacing--basic field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <div id="obj-32103" class="paragraph paragraph--type--pb-el-bq paragraph--view-mode--default"> <blockquote class="blockquote--quotemark" data-text-color-red data-text-size-giant> <p>�鶹��Ƶ nurtured my curiosity, helping me understand the root causes of world problems. The interdisciplinary learning there became the foundation of my knowledge.”</p> </blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="field__item"> <div id="obj-27789" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-copy paragraph--view-mode--default o-flex--basic-copy basic-copy"> <p><strong>How did �鶹��Ƶ equip you for your current roles?</strong></p> <p>The Change Campaign—my senior project—was a significant one. I had been working with [local nonprofit] <a href="https://www.oberlincommunityservices.org/">�鶹��Ƶ Community Services</a> for a year and a half before the <a href="/winter-term">Winter Term</a> of my senior year. I was serving as a public health advocate when we wrote a grant to the Ohio Commission on Minority Health for $20,000 to fund a Text for Wellness program, making crisis counselors available for the state through text messages. I played a very minor role in that project but learned a ton. As I marinated on the experience, I realized that if �鶹��Ƶ students donated an average of $20, we could raise $60,000 of flexible funding for community services.</p> <p>�鶹��Ƶ nurtured my curiosity, helping me understand the root causes of world problems. The interdisciplinary learning there became the foundation of my knowledge. Moreover, the deep introspection fostered at �鶹��Ƶ about my position and privilege has been invaluable in my professional journey.</p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Kohler's first professional experience after college was with 12+, empowering underprivileged students to succeed after 12th grade.</figcaption> </figure> <p><strong>How did you secure your first post-college position?</strong></p> <p>I met Rob Reed, the executive deputy attorney general for the Pennsylvania Office of Public Engagement, during my fellowship with 12+ [a nonprofit aiming to bring educational equity to K-12 students in Philadelphia]. Rob asked if I wanted to meet with him, and I came prepared to talk all about The Change Campaign. I told him all about the project and what we hoped to accomplish, and when I was done, he told me about the project he was working on—the Pennsylvania Trauma-Informed Care Network—and asked if I wanted to help him with its development. This was my introduction to trauma-informed care, and it changed my entire life. In that position, I met leaders of CTIPP when it was first coming together, and this led to me becoming CTIPP’s first official intern. </p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-left"> <figcaption>Kohler was a member of the 2015 team that won the NCAC Championship. </figcaption> </figure> <p><strong>What’s your fondest memory of �鶹��Ƶ? </strong></p> <p>The 2015 �鶹��Ƶ baseball team won the North Coast Athletic Conference. We were underdogs and went on an incredible run at the end of the season. I didn’t play a lot that season. I got a concussion earlier in the year when an errant throw hit me in the head, but I found a role serving as a bullpen catcher and tried to be the best teammate I could. This humbling experience taught me more than my successes did. The night after we won the conference championship, we drove back from Chillicothe and stayed up the entire night celebrating until the sun came up!</p> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article> <h1>�鶹��Ƶ Homecoming Set for Sep. 29-Oct. 1</h1> <p>eburnett — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 01:11:59 +0000</p> <span>�鶹��Ƶ Homecoming Set for Sep. 29-Oct. 1</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-09-05T21:11:59-04:00" title="Tuesday, September 5, 2023 - 21:11">Tue, 09/05/2023 - 21:11</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/homecoming-weekend">Homecoming 2023 at �鶹��Ƶ</a> will feature the weekend’s favorite traditions—plus a host of new experiences that highlight our bustling campus in autumn: tours, talks, music, celebrations of all kinds, and more.</p> <p>The festivities begin Friday, September 29, and continue through Sunday, October 1.</p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Illumination, a springtime tradition at �鶹��Ƶ, returns to campus for Homecoming beginning in 2023. (photo by Mike Crupi)</figcaption> </figure> <p>New to Homecoming this year is Illumination, a special autumn edition of �鶹��Ƶ’s springtime tradition, in which campus and community converge to enjoy music, food, and fun under the glow of hundreds of colorful lanterns strung throughout Tappan Square. Typically held after all but graduating seniors have left campus in May, Illumination at Homecoming unites all of campus with returning alumni and the community like never before.</p> <p>Homecoming 2023 includes special programming for the 5th, 20th, 40th, and 55th cluster reunions as well as many events open to all returning Obies. Following is a partial list of highlights:</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">• Opportunities to drop in on fall classes</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">• Alumni socials with student organizations</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">• Special alumni meals and receptions</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">• Cluster reunion events at the Cat in the Cream and the ’Sco</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">• �鶹��Ƶ Orchestra in Finney Chapel and a faculty recital in Warner Concert Hall</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">• Tailgate party at the Knowlton Athletics Complex</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">• Men’s football and soccer games</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">• Varsity letter celebration for pre-Title IX athletes</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;">• Tours dedicated to campus sustainability, Allen Memorial Art Museum, the Frank Lloyd Wright House, and more</p> <p>For additional information and complete activity schedules, please visit the 2023 Homecoming and Reunion Weekend and Reunion FAQ pages.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Festivities include fall Illumination, reunion socials, varsity athletics, music, classroom drop-ins, and rekindled memories all over campus.</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="2023-09-05T12:00:00Z">Tue, 09/05/2023 - 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=3902">Homecoming</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3901">Reunion</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2368">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Homecoming 2023 includes three days of activities for returning alumni, including special programming for �鶹��Ƶ's 5th, 20th, 40th, and 55th reunion clusters.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pull-images field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">No</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-cte-images field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yes (Individual Images)</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">Mike Crupi</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>All About Balance</h1> <p>tapplega — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 14:49:37 +0000</p> <span>All About Balance</span> <span><span>tapplega</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-07-20T10:49:37-04:00" title="Thursday, July 20, 2023 - 10:49">Thu, 07/20/2023 - 10:49</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Christopher Ayoub got his first taste of research in the <a href="/node/3346">biology</a> labs of �鶹��Ƶ. By the summer after his sophomore year, he had secured an internship researching circadian rhythms at the University of Texas Health Science Center. The following summer, he was investigating bone formation at Washington University in St. Louis. </p> <p>Each time, he returned to �鶹��Ƶ to push his research further under the guidance of biology professor <a href="/node/5196">Maureen Peters</a>. Their work together led directly to Ayoub’s first job after graduation: as a research technician at Baylor College of Medicine. </p> <p>Today the 2015 grad from Houston, who completed �鶹��Ƶ majors in <a href="/node/3436">anthropology</a> and biology, is pursuing two more degrees that span both disciplines: a PhD and MD at Ohio State University. </p> <p>We caught up with Ayoub to learn more about his journey since �鶹��Ƶ.</p> <p><strong>You pursued two majors at �鶹��Ƶ and were a varsity athlete on the swimming and diving team. What was it like balancing all of that?</strong></p> <p>Balance is the key word. Each one of those gave me a break from the others, such that doing all of those things helped me not to get burned out. I was also in the <a href="/node/70541">College Choir</a>, which added a little music to the mix too! </p> <p>I actually came to �鶹��Ƶ with no clue what major I wanted to pursue. I created a giant spreadsheet every time class registration came around because I wanted to make sure I kept my options open. Over the course of several semesters, I realized I loved biology—thank you, [Emeritus Professor] Yolanda Cruz—and I wanted to balance the natural science with a social science. I had narrowed it down to English and anthropology, but Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology with Professor <a href="/node/5006">Erika Hoffmann-Dilloway</a> really drew me in—not to mention Human Origins with Professor <a href="/node/5011">Amy Margaris</a>, which merged the two subjects! Then there was swimming, which gave me an escape from academics, alternative goals to focus on, exercise for endorphins, and a team that was my family away from home. The <a href="https://goyeo.com/sports/mens-swimming-and-diving">swim team</a> was a vital support system for me to maintain my sanity and to find joy at �鶹��Ƶ.</p> <p><strong>What inspired you to pursue a career in medical research?</strong></p> <p>As I was figuring out what to do with a biology major or an anthropology major, I knew a lot of peers who had research positions. Molecular biology was particularly captivating to me because many of its techniques, like PCR [polymerase chain reaction] and Western blotting, elegantly take advantage of naturally occurring biological mechanisms. While I was at UT Health, my first research mentor, Dr. Seung-Hee Yoo, was also the first to suggest the double-major pathway to me. </p> <p>As this simmered at the back of my mind, I began to think of it as a way to continue both of my majors. There were 13 programs around the country that would allow me to continue anthropology as a PhD and biology as an MD. However, I was doing more biology research at �鶹��Ƶ with Professor Peters and more the next summer at Washington University, and I realized that I love biology research, which would not be continued through a PhD in anthropology. I also realized that the MD could just as easily be the extension of my anthropology major, as I would be working with patients and other medical professionals from all walks of life. </p> <p>With that perspective in mind, I started to see how the two degrees would work together—where medicine informs the gaps in understanding and care that need to be addressed through research, and where research inspires changes that advance the standard of care. Pursuing medicine and research together constantly keeps the other in perspective. For me, it’s very motivating to know that my research has the potential to have a real impact on people’s lives by improving health outcomes. Good health is fundamental to so much of our lives.</p> <p><strong>What sort of research did you do at �鶹��Ƶ?</strong></p> <p>In Maureen Peters’ lab, I studied the defecation motor program in C <em>elegans</em> [a type of roundworm], a tightly controlled, repetitive behavior that occurs roughly every 50 seconds. More specifically, I was part of investigating the permissive conditions that allow the expulsion contraction to take place at the end of every 50 seconds. The independence and freedom Professor Peters gave me to follow my observations really allowed me to develop my scientific curiosity. The technical skills she taught me in handling worms also helped me snag my first job after �鶹��Ƶ, where I was a research technician in a C <em>elegans</em> microbiome lab at Baylor College of Medicine.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Christopher Ayoub finds the sweet spot between his love of medicine and research.</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="2023-07-31T12:00:00Z">Mon, 07/31/2023 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tyler Applegate</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=2360">After �鶹��Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3830">Pre-Medicine</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2358">Undergraduate Research</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</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=24656">Anthropology</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25251">Biology</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-faculty field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/maureen-peters" hreflang="und">Maureen Peters</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/amy-margaris" hreflang="und">Amy Margaris ’96</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/anthropology" hreflang="und">Anthropology</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/biology" hreflang="und">Biology</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/pre-medicine-and-health-careers" hreflang="und">Pre-Medicine and Health Careers</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/global-health" hreflang="und">Global Health</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">courtesy of Christopher Ayoub</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-flex-content field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden vertical-spacing--basic field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <div id="obj-32099" class="paragraph paragraph--type--pb-el-bq paragraph--view-mode--default"> <blockquote class="blockquote--quotemark" data-text-color-red data-text-size-large> <p>The hallmark of an �鶹��Ƶ education is an open-ended, lifelong curiosity and passion for learning that will be fundamental to my success as a physician-scientist.”</p> </blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="field__item"> <div id="obj-27760" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-copy paragraph--view-mode--default o-flex--basic-copy basic-copy"> <p><strong>Did others at �鶹��Ƶ help shape your career goals? </strong></p> <p>I had so many wonderful mentors at �鶹��Ƶ. Maureen Peters was my research advisor, but she has been so much more than that to me. She also taught me genetics—one of the most elegant and inspiring fields of research, which certainly primed me for a PhD project in bioinformatics. She wrote letters of recommendation that helped me get into my dual-degree program. Professor Peters also advised our chapter of Colleges Against Cancer, for which I was treasurer, helping us brainstorm and plan engaging programs that would reach as many students as possible. Above all, Maureen Peters has been a role model for the relationships I want to build with future trainees and for the work-life balance I want to achieve, where I prioritize my family as well as my work.</p> <p>I also had several other mentors in biology, anthropology, and on the swimming and diving coaching staff whom I owe many thanks. </p> <p><strong>What sort of work are you doing at Ohio State?</strong></p> <p>I’m a student in the <a href="https://medicine.osu.edu/education/dual-degree/mstp">Medical Scientist Training Program</a>. I recently completed my PhD work in [biochemistry], studying gene expression in the context of Alzheimer's disease tauopathy [neurodegenerative disorder], and now I am returning to the clinical years of medical school.</p> <p><strong>How might your research affect our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease?</strong></p> <p>I think the main contribution of my first author paper is that it provides a new approach for dissecting gene expression according to the differential vulnerability of different brain regions to tauopathy. In doing so, we see that some aspects of the brain’s response to Alzheimer’s are shared between regions, and other aspects are unique to each brain region. This provides insight into what biological processes promote vulnerability and what processes promote resistance to Alzheimer’s tauopathy and degeneration. These are all potential targets for future study and development of disease-modifying therapies, which remain elusive for Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative tauopathies.</p> <p><strong>What comes next after your PhD and MD?</strong></p> <p>Next up will be medical residency! As I return to medical school, I am keeping an open mind as to what specialty to pursue; however, as I begin to look into residency programs, I am certainly interested in those that incorporate time for research. My end goal for all of this training is to become a physician-scientist, balancing research and clinical practice. I like to think that this path has all been an extension of my double major at �鶹��Ƶ, where the PhD research has been a continuation of my biology major, and medicine will be a continuation of my anthropology major as I engage patients and other medical professionals from all walks of life. The hallmark of an �鶹��Ƶ education is an open-ended, lifelong curiosity and passion for learning that will be fundamental to success as a physician-scientist.</p> </div> </div> </div> </article> <article> <h1>A Voice for the Voiceless</h1> <p>anagy — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 19:19:26 +0000</p> <span>A Voice for the Voiceless</span> <span><span>anagy</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-04-07T15:19:26-04:00" title="Friday, April 7, 2023 - 15:19">Fri, 04/07/2023 - 15:19</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Sydney Allen graduated from �鶹��Ƶ in 2019 with a major in English and minors in rhetoric and history. She worked at the <em>�鶹��Ƶ Review</em> for four years, serving as editor-in-chief her senior year. A student-athlete, Allen was a member of the varsity women’s lacrosse team. She was also a <a href="/arts-and-sciences/resources-and-support/pal">Peer Advising Leader</a> (PAL), Peer Listener in the Peer Support Center, <a href="/arts-and-sciences/resources-and-support/soar">Sophomore Opportunities and Resources Program</a> Facilitator, and worked with the <a href="/arts-and-sciences/resources-and-support/wap">Writing Associates Program</a>. </p> <p>A native of Indianapolis, Allen has held internships with <em>Indianapolis Monthly</em>, the <em>Chronicle-Telegram</em> in Northeast Ohio, and her hometown congressional representative in Washington, D.C. In 2019, she was selected as a two-year <a href="https://www.shansi.org">�鶹��Ƶ Shansi Fellow</a>, which took her to Yogyakarta, Indonesia, to teach writing and introductory journalism courses at Universitas Gadjah Mada. In June 2021, she began a position as an associate editor and Green Voices coordinator at Global Voices Online. </p> <p>We caught up with Allen to learn more about her path in journalism.</p> <p><strong>What was it like traveling across the world after graduation and immersing yourself in Indonesian culture as a Shansi Fellow?</strong></p> <p>Shansi does a great job at preparing the fellows, letting people know what to expect, and sharing tips on how to get acclimated. It was definitely a challenge, but I clearly loved it because I’m still in Asia now. When I first moved to Indonesia, I studied Bahasa (a language in Indonesia) for two months, which was excellent. That really gave me the foundation I needed to continue learning Bahasa. </p> <p><strong>How did working in leadership and mentorship roles at �鶹��Ƶ prepare you for teaching students at an Indonesian university?</strong></p> <p>The Writing Associates Program helped me communicate more effectively and give feedback in ways that are kind and compassionate. There’s a pretty clear trajectory between my roles at �鶹��Ƶ and how my career has progressed so far. I see a very direct link between the skills I learned as a writing associate and the work I’ve done. Also, PAL was helpful in establishing connections with students who are interested in different subject areas, as well as learning how to mentor younger students. The Writing Associate program and PAL gives students a different side of �鶹��Ƶ and provides a lot of value. </p> <p><strong>Tell us about how you found work as an associate editor and Green Voices coordinator at Global Voices Online in Indonesia.</strong></p> <p>Shansi Executive Director <a href="https://www.shansi.org/executive-director">Gavin Tritt</a> informed me of this remote position that matched my interest in advocacy-related journalism. It’s turned out to be incredibly fulfilling and an endless supply of perspectives. Green Voices is a collective of journalists and researchers who mainly write about the Global South—a region that’s been overlooked by mainstream media. Most writers are volunteers, citizen journalists, and people who have been overlooked by larger outlets. We have 40 languages that we translate to bridge linguistic silos, so many people have accessible information. </p> <p><strong>What kinds of stories have you worked on at Global Voices Online?</strong> </p> <p>I’m editing and writing news stories about Indonesia, Hong Kong, Southeast Asia, the Pacific, and Central Asia. I’m also coordinating Green Voices, which is a group of environmental journalists around the world. This is a support mechanism to meet once a month and discuss the heavy topic of environmental issues while also forging connections. Mutual understanding and support between journalists can be really uplifting.</p> <p><strong>Can you provide some advice for �鶹��Ƶ students interested in journalism after graduation?</strong></p> <p>Get involved in as many things as you possibly can. It’s worth it to take advantage of many opportunities and go outside your comfort zone. See what appeals to you and push yourself to try new things. Getting into college is only a quarter of the battle. Finding out what’s important to you is a major part of your career journey. Find out what you like, and learn how to talk about it. I got this job through Shansi because I have always been vocal about what I’m interested in. Getting people to know about your interests and being able to talk about what you want in a way that is clear, concise, and confident is important.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Advocacy journalist Sydney Allen shines a spotlight on underrepresented regions.</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="2023-04-07T12:00:00Z">Fri, 04/07/2023 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Ava Miller '25</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Since graduating, Sydney Allen has worked remotely for a global news outlet while traveling around Southeast Asia. Read more about Allen in this After �鶹��Ƶ Q&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=2363">Academics & Research</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2397">Shansi</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2377">Arts & Humanities</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3887">SOAR</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2418">Student-Athlete</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=25451">Writing and Communication</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25381">History</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/english" hreflang="und">English</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Sydney Allen '19 is an associate editor and Green Voices coordinator at Global Voices Online.</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 Sydney Allen</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>How Biostatistical Analysts Are Born</h1> <p>tapplega — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 18:11:40 +0000</p> <span>How Biostatistical Analysts Are Born</span> <span><span>tapplega</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-03-01T13:11:40-05:00" title="Wednesday, March 1, 2023 - 13:11">Wed, 03/01/2023 - 13:11</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Ian Dinsmore ’19 studied <a href="/node/25401">mathematics</a> and <a href="/node/25411">physics</a> at �鶹��Ƶ while earning all-conference honors as a pitcher on the baseball team. By his senior year, he developed a passion for analytics that inspired him to pursue a master’s degree in business analytics from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management in Cleveland. A Pennsylvania native, Dinsmore later returned home to the borough of Danville, where he works as a biostatistical analyst for Geisinger Health Systems—the same company where he completed a pivotal internship as a rising fourth-year student at �鶹��Ƶ.</p> <p>We caught up with Dinsmore recently after he spoke about his career path with current students in a program cooradinated by �鶹��Ƶ’s <a href="/center-engaged-liberal-arts">Center for Engaged Liberal Arts</a>…</p> <p><strong>What does a biostatistical analyst do?</strong></p> <p>My work is varied, but primarily I work with genetic data and electronic health record information to generate phenotypes, which are tested for associations with each other. This can include variants in a specific gene, or generally gene expression tied to changes in health. I also create novel data-analysis pipelines that are aimed at making available health information more effective in preventing disease—whether that’s through machine learning, data organization, or other forms of data management.</p> <p><strong>What do you love most about your work?</strong></p> <p>The most enjoyable part of my job is the creativity and freedom I have in finding solutions to questions from my lab. Working in research, we’re exploring ideas that have not been published and accepted by the scientific community at large, so being nimble in my work to adapt to the problem at hand is exciting. This can include writing code to automate a previously mundane, manual task, to developing a novel technique that can be published as a method for the broader community to use.</p> <p><strong>How did you know graduate school was the right step after �鶹��Ƶ?</strong></p> <p>I knew going into my senior year I wanted to [work] in data analytics, and grad school was an option I knew I would be readily prepared for thanks to �鶹��Ƶ. After my internship, I also knew that I had a lot more to learn in the field of analytics. This led me to looking into graduate programs, and Case Western was a great fit for me with the scholarship I received from the <a href="https://case.edu/weatherhead/academics/graduate/ohio-5-business-collaborative">Ohio 5 Business Collaborative</a> program. Case ended up being a great match, as it allowed me to take the STEM skills and knowledge I had received at �鶹��Ƶ and apply them to the analytics field.</p> <p><strong>You were a double major and a varsity athlete during your time here. What was it like balancing everything? </strong></p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Photo credit: Michael Durkin</figcaption> </figure> <p>It was definitely busy! There were times, in my junior and senior years especially, where I had to focus on school and finish homework or projects and miss some social events with my friends. But it rarely was completely overwhelming, and it really prepared me for my current position and work I will pursue in the future. It greatly developed my time-management skills, and looking back, I don't think I would have changed my path at all. I loved my time in both the mathematics and physics departments, and also found great joy representing �鶹��Ƶ athletics.</p> <p><strong>What role did your �鶹��Ƶ mentors play in shaping your career path?</strong></p> <p>My professors at �鶹��Ƶ were critical in shaping my career path. The professors in the physics and math departments—really everywhere at �鶹��Ƶ—were incredibly helpful, encouraging, and challenging. My senior year, I had quite a few discussions with my advisor, [physics professor] <a href="/node/6186">Jason Stalnaker</a>, about my career path, and he was great at providing me with answers and insight to any questions I had. Without the education that my professors provided me, I would not have been nearly as successful at Case or in my current position.</p> <p><strong>What’s your fondest �鶹��Ƶ memory?</strong></p> <p>My fondest memory is the time I spent together with my classmates and friends, whether that was doing homework or socializing together. I met so many great people at �鶹��Ƶ that are still my best friends—it truly is a special place. We spent countless hours working together in the Science Center, or working in the libraries around campus. Just having those people I could depend on, by my side through it all, is what I miss most about being at �鶹��Ƶ.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Ian Dinsmore studied physics and math. Then an internship shed light on a new path.</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="2023-03-01T12:00:00Z">Wed, 03/01/2023 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tyler Applegate</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=2360">After �鶹��Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</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=25411">Physics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25401">Mathematics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-faculty field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/jason-stalnaker" hreflang="und">Jason Stalnaker</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/physics-and-astronomy" hreflang="und">Physics and Astronomy</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/mathematics" hreflang="und">Mathematics</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">courtesy of Ian Dinsmore</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> </main></body></html>