Campus Forum: Focus on Mission

The Campus Forum series runs again this semester, starting next Tuesday. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Eduardo Ochoa and Senate Chair Scott Miller present an overview and discussion of the Sonoma State University mission. The Forum takes place on Tues., Oct. 21 from noon-1 p.m. in Schulz 3001. Everyone is welcome.

This is an opportunity for all members of the campus community to comment on the "Notes on SSU's Mission" document that was developed by the Joint Committee on Academic Planning. That document can be found at: http://www.sonoma.edu/aa/portfolio/EE_Review/Notes_on_SSU%27s_Mission.pdf. Copies will also be provided at the forum.

This effort is in response to the WASC recommendation that the campus community "reach consensus on a clear definition of the University's complex mission..." Your participation in support of this effort is especially important. We hope to see you at the Forum.

The next forum is near the end of November and will be on the topic of the University Strategic Plan. Watch NewsBytes for further information.

“Garden Allies” Workshop Raising Awareness of Beneficial Insects

Lecturer and Sustainable Landscape Director Frederique Lavoipierre (left) joins instructor and horticulturist Kate Frey to lead “Garden Allies: Beneficial Insects and Other Helpful Garden Denizens” on Sat., Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Darwin 103. This workshop includes presentations, tours of the campus gardens and biological sciences museum, and a hands-on lab exploring the world of garden allies. An insect lab consisting of more than 30 stations of insects and microscopes will also be featured.

The cost of the workshop is $35, which benefits the SSU Entomology Education and Outreach Program, to secure equipment and supplies necessary for establishing a versatile community outreach program. The Entomology Education and Outreach program provides presentations for grade school students and public and professional groups, and also provides training for SSU biology students interested in entomology and environmental education.

Seating is limited. For reservations and more information, contact Frederique Lavoipierre at (707) 829-0751 or email lavoipie@sonoma.edu.

Seawolf Card prizes for faculty, staff and students

The Seawolf Card is bringing concert tickets, massages, gift cards, and many other exciting prizes to students, faculty and staff who use their WolfBucks at locations called Hot Spots. These Hot Spots are designated every week and include Charlie Brown's, vending machines, and the Rec Center. Future locations of Hot Spots can be found online at www.sonoma.edu/seawolfcard/promotions.

The Seawolf Card is excited to announce that Carrie Underwood tickets will be the next prize up for grabs. Students, faculty and staff who go online from Oct. 20-26 and place at least $100 in WolfBucks on their Seawolf Card will receive a 10 percent bonus and all deposits will be entered in a drawing. The winner will receive two Carrie Underwood tickets for her upcoming show at the Oracle Arena on Nov. 15.

WolfBucks can be placed on any Seawolf Card at any time, by simply going online and logging into PeopleSoft, clicking on the Seawolf OPS button, and following the necessary steps. "It's now easier than ever to upload cash right to your card," says Ryan Ernst, Director of Marketing and Card Systems. Funds can also be added by visiting Customer Services or calling 4-2308.

 A full list of locations where WolfBucks are accepted, along with further information, can be found at www.sonoma.edu/seawolfcard. Questions can be directed to Ryan Ernst at 4-2533 or by email to seawolfcard@sonoma.edu.

Nichols Founders Society Luncheon

The annual Nichols Founders Society luncheon was held Sept. 12. Students greeted donors, who were then welcomed and thanked by President Armiñana.

A highlight was hearing from guest speaker David McCuan (right), associate professor of political science, who shared his insights and answered spirited questions on the subject of the upcoming election. Wrapping up the event was a trio of student musicians.

SSU friend and donor Eloise Oretsky shared, “I thoroughly enjoyed the event and speaker.”  Ben and Eloise Oretsky (left) are long-time Sonoma County residents and regulars on campus. Ben’s scroll saw clocks are on display in the University Library, third floor north. 

Edward Rudloff, SSU emeritus faculty, and his wife Loralynn (right), came from Newport Beach to visit. The SSU pool located in the gymnasium is named for the Rudloffs, and Edward is an Athletics Hall of Famer. "To have the opportunity to visit with Dr. Rudloff at the Nichols Society Luncheon was a great opportunity and honor. As one of the founding faculty members of SSU, his work from almost 40 years ago still impacts our intercollegiate athletic program every day," said Bill Fusco, Athletics Director.

The Ambrose and Barbara Nichols Founders Society was established in 1989 to honor the founding president of SSU and his wife. Members of this society are recognized for their university support through planned gifts made through their estates.

To learn more about the Founders Society contact Robin Draper in University Development at robin.draper@sonoma.edu.