The Collegian
Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Sharon Tully


Students and panelists discuss the meaning of manhood and masculinity

What is the meaning of manhood and masculinity at the University of Richmond? That was the question posed to a group of panelists at this week's meeting held by UR Men for Change, a group dedicated to promoting discussion of race, class, gender dynamics and sexual orientation on campus. The panel consisted of prominent faculty and staff members, including Joseph Boehman, dean of Richmond College; Glyn Hughes, director of Common Ground; Mike London, head football coach; and Jean-Pierre Laurenceu-Medina and Eddie Gates from the office of multicultural affairs. Contrary to what some may think, UR Men for Change is not the male version of Women Involved in Living and Learning, or WILL. "The issues we talk about are from a male perspective," said Warin Henry, the group's president, "and at this point in time we are working on forming our own identity.

Speech director has her roots in the White House

Linda Hobgood has the kind of attitude about work that most people can only dream about. As the director of the Speech Center in the rhetoric and communication studies department at the University of Richmond, she wakes up every morning and can't wait to get to work and start her day. "I had the chance to do what I had been trained for," she said.

'I'm sure Smith and Darwin are dancing in heaven right now'

"I'm sure Smith and Darwin are dancing in heaven right now," said Elias Khalil, an organizer of the symposium about emotions, natural selection and rationality that took place last weekend at the University of Richmond's Jepson Alumni Center. Khalil, who is associate professor of economics at Monash University in Australia and a visiting lecturer in economics at Richmond, was referring to Adam Smith, author of "The Theory of Moral Sentiments" (1759), and Charles Darwin, author of the "Origin of Species" (1859). Smith and Darwin's ideas have received a resurgence of interest, thanks to recent discoveries and new techniques in experiments and neuroscience. Jonathan Wight, Richmond professor of economics and international studies, also helped plan and organize the event. "This symposium provides an outstanding opportunity to think across schools and departments," he said, "and to celebrate two great thinkers -- Smith and Darwin -- who provide us today with continued inspiration." The event also served as a kick off for a new major that will be offered to support the school's Strategic Initiative, which will focus on developing synergies among the various schools.

Shockoe Slip retailers offer discount incentive program

Local retailers in Shockoe Slip are trying to ward off the negative effects of a slow economy by offering various incentives to customers during the next couple of months. During February and March -- months that typically produce the lowest sales figures of the year -- shoppers who spend $100 will receive two free River District Canal Cruises and two $5 lunch vouchers at local restaurants.

Theatre and dance students produce two comedies

During the spring semester, the University of Richmond campus will have the opportunity to witness two distinctly different theatrical performances. The first brings dark comedy to life in Martin McDonagh's "The Pillowman." The play will be produced entirely by members of the Department of Theatre and Dance's Production Studies III class, in which students form a production company, choose a play to produce and are responsible for all elements of production, from casting actors to designing costumes and set. The play follows Katurian, an author who writes disturbing stories with graphic depictions of murdered children.

News Brief: Compact to help low-income students afford college

The Board of Trustees of the College Board has issued a call to action from college educators across the country to help make college education a reality for all students. President Edward Ayers took the first step in joining the initiative, known as the CollegeKeys Compact, by signing the commitment in order to become a charter member. The program's goal is to help students from low-income backgrounds prepare for and get into college by providing financial aid, academic and emotional support. The Compact also calls for a team of senior leaders to head up the initiative, which will be led by April Hill, chairwoman of the faculty committee on admission.

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