Author: Brynn Boyer

Jason James, associate professor of anthropology, will discuss the cultural struggles that persist in post-Nazi Germany during an interview scheduled to air on the “With Good Reason” public radio program. The show, “After the Berlin Wall Came Down,” will air beginning Saturday, Dec. 1.

The program will focus on James’ argument that “there are still divisions within German culture – between the ‘good’ former West Germans and the ‘bad’ former East Germans – and that both sides struggle with a problematic past that includes Nazi and Fascist associations.”

“With Good Reason” airs weekly in Fredericksburg on Sundays from 1-2 p.m. on Radio IQ 88.3 Digital. To listen from outside of the Fredericksburg area, a complete list of air times and links to corresponding radio stations can be found at http://withgoodreasonradio.org/when-to-listen/.

On Nov. 17, the University of Mary Washington Board of Visitors passed a resolution of appreciation commending the students and staff who were instrumental in the response to the Mason Hall fire. In the resolution, the BOV expresses appreciation to student staff members of the Office of Residence Life (resident assistants and office assistants), to the professional staff members of Residence Life, UMW Police, Emergency Management and Safety, Facilities and Housekeeping, University Events, University Relations and Communications; and to the senior level administrators for their service during the incident.

Congratulations to Rose Wagner, recruitment coordinator in the Office of Career Services, who has been selected as the Excellent Eagle Employee for the month of December. A parking spot of her choosing has been reserved for her until the end of the month.

Here is what one of her co-workers said about her:

”Rose has been an integral teammate for the office of Career Services. Her determination and attention to detail allows for even the largest of events to go smoothly. Her quality customer service and friendly disposition greet students, faculty, staff, and current employers day in and day out. Rose has taken the time to fill in when needed on a variety of tasks for both Academic Services and Career Services. She accepts new responsibilities without question and provides results that exceed expectations. Most recently, Rose was willing to assist in the planning and day of logistics of a major event in the Office of Academic Services. She was quick to prepare materials needed, able to help greet guests, and dedicated the man hours it took to make it a success. Rose is modest and hardworking. Her eagerness to learn and ability to juggle multiple priorities is the key to her success within our office. We are grateful to have her on our team!”

To nominate someone who you believe is an Excellent Eagle Employee, send an email to Priscilla Sullivan (psulliva@umw.edu) with Excellent Eagle Employee in the subject line.  In your email, be sure to list the person’s name, department, work location (with the most convenient parking lot), and of course, the reason why you believe they should be recognized.  Please spread the word to other employees about this wonderful opportunity to recognize a co-worker(s).

Elizabeth F. Larus, professor of political science and international affairs, presented a paper, “The Challenges of Economic and Social Development Faced by the CCP’s Fifth Generation Leaders,” at the International Conference on the Chinese Communist Party’s 18^th National Congress – Transition of Power and Policy Outlook [中共『十八大之權 力 傳 承 與 政 策 動 向」國  際 會 議 ], in Taipei, Taiwan, Nov. 12-13. Larus was the sole female participant at the two-day conference, and the only participant from a liberal arts university. Professor Larus participated in the conference at the invitation of Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Institute for National Policy Research. During the conference’s round table discussion, Larus was able to offer to the diplomatic community in attendance comments on recent developments in China. Elizabeth Freund Larus is author of Politics and Society in Contemporary China.

The Multicultural Fair is one of the largest, most anticipated events hosted at the University of Mary Washington. The Multicultural Fair features amazing performances, multicultural vendors, ethnic food, and kid-friendly activities. The 23rd Annual Multicultural Fair will be held on Saturday, April 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

If you are interested in serving as a volunteer for the Multicultural Fair, please contact the James Farmer Multicultural Center at 540-654-1044, or email at umwjfmc@gmail.com.  If you are interested in selling crafts, art, or other items at the Multicultural Fair, complete the attached application form by Friday, March 29. For additional information, contact Greta Franklin at 540-654-1044.