Volume 1
Issue 8
For the Kean University Student Community
October 19, 2004
The
COUGAR’SByte A Student Life & Leadership Development Publication THE CANDIDATES PRESIDENT Erica Anderson Katy Batista Jamie Besante Tre Ferrell Irisa Grimes Mina Kousa Jamal T. Reid Daniel Snyder Shay-la "Platinum" Wilkins Lenora A. Williams Amor Young VICE PRESIDENT Jessica Alvarez Ali Chestman Cymone Coker Superia Ingalls Tiffany L. Ortega Radia Rahman Jhoanne Rama Nicole Tuesday Andre Turner TREASURER Lynda Babo Shakeeda Bowery Gloria Diaz Jennifer Martin Blanca Ortega Amanda A. Padilla Jean Paulino SECRETARY Ashley Boston Fabienne Gardet Christa Goliszeski Jackie A. Headlam Gabrielle Mahar Mariam Mirza Priscilla Vargas REPRESENTATIVES (Total of 9) Sarah Baratta Nikkita Blackwell Parsha S. Broadnax Kiona Burpee Aura Cabrera Andrew Carson Barbara Chaparro Chinonye Chukunta Shawn Cumberland John Cwynar Maria DeLeon Jennifer Dietrich Asia Fletcher Texas Pete Mary Hanna Jaclyn Hedgepeth Allison Jones Anna Khorowsheva Kristen Kunie Jon Legiadre Juan J. Martinez Christina Mercado Keith Mills Lisa Orefice' Estrela Pereira Jocelyn Price Megan Reese ThKeya Smith Krystal Soto Marina Stapleton Shannon Thompson Shakiera Treadwell Ken Varughese Danielle Villalta Erin Walsh Chris Ward Todd Wells Kamil Zaffa
CLASS OF 2008 ELECTIONS
Class President candidates from left to right are Mina Kousa, Daniel Snyder, Irisa Grimes, Jamal Reid, Erica Anderson and Tre Ferrell. Remaining Presidential candidates were not available for photo.
It’s that time again! Every upperclassman knows to avoid the University Center as 72 of Kean University’s full-time undergraduate freshmen vie for 13 freshman class officer positions. Working hard to win your vote, 72 candidates, almost 5 times the number of applicants from the year before, will bombard every student entering the University Center with their ideas for programs that benefit not only freshmen, but also the entire Kean University. However, only full-time undergraduates with less than 29 credits may vote on Thursday, October 21, 2004 in the Greek Lounge from 9am until 6pm. And once elected, the freshman officers will represent the Class of 2008, one of Student Organization’s 17 funded groups, on the many University committees, as well as Student Council.
Announcing election results Thursday night after the polls close, any freshmen not elected and still interested in representing the Class of 2008 can put their name on the waiting list starting Friday, October 22, 2004 at 9am in the Student Organization office located in the University Center, room 321. In addition, all are welcome to join the first council and class meeting Friday at 3pm in the University Center, room 228. For additional information on the Presidential candidates, check out the insert.
Making Strides
Spring Registration
Spring Registration A crowd of eager Kean students huddled near Wilkins Bulletins, containing Theater in the crisp and chilly morning air, waiting for detailed information buses to arrive to drive them into the heart of downtown for Spring 2005, are Newark where they would show their support by NOW available. Get participating in the Making Strides Against Breast your bulletin as soon Cancer walk. Three busloads of participants sporting as possible from Kean University logos on their sweatshirts, tote bags, either the Registrar’s and jackets joined huge crowds composed of other Office, the One Stop colleges, high schools, churches, and various Service Center or the organizations. While the DJ in the park played music Center for Academic and shouted words of encouragement, people of all Success. Spring different sizes, shapes, colors, and styles walked side registration begins by side for just about 5 miles. Cheerful and energized, October 26. our Cougar mascot got up on stage and a giant crowd of Kean students, faculty, staff, and friends celebrated by line dancing in the street as the walk came to a close. Kean University expressed appreciation and restored energy by providing participants with snacks and refreshments. The walk was fun for everyone and a great success. Together we raised over two thousand dollars! Students had only good things to say about their experience in Making Strides. Jennifer Murtha, a math major, said, “It was cool that everyone was cheering and showing so much support.” Psychology major Laura Pointon exclaimed, “I can’t believe how many people turned out! There are so many sororities, fraternities, and other schools all participating together.” “It was a lot of fun seeing other Greek organizations from other schools in the same walk,” agreed elementary ed/math major Rory Yelen.
REGISTER AT WWW.COUGARSBYTE.COM TO GET THE LATEST NEWS SENT DI There’s More To Teaching Art Than Meets The Eye! All my life I had planned to be an illustrator. In pursuit of this dream, I attended Kean University and four years later I graduated summa cum laude with a BFA in Illustration. Just after graduation, it occurred to me that illustration would not be a secure means of income, so I decided to continue my education and pursue a Master of Arts degree in Fine Arts Education at Kean University. To me, this was the best of both worlds - I could have a secure income and still be involved with art! Everyone knows that Kean University is ‘THE’ school for education. But did you know that its Art Department is also very prestigious? Well it is, and Kean is becoming increasingly renowned for its Art Education Program. The program is evolving to become a cutting-edge, psychology-based intensive study, which requires students to take a deeply intellectual approach to art education. Dr. Amorino, an incredible art professor here at Kean and the coordinator of this program, said that this innovative approach would not only be more intellectually stimulating, but it would also
allow students to take an in-depth look at the psychological implications of artistic learning. Many people think that teaching art is easy. They think you hand a student some colored pencils and say, “Go draw.” Or you put a pre-existing work of art in front of a student and say, “Copy this.” Although those may be teaching methods employed by some art teachers in the field, here at Kean the Art Education Program is designed to steer future teachers away from that way of thinking, and to guide them towards creating detailed lesson plans and teaching techniques that stimulate the students’ creativity and imagination. Now, after only being in the program for a month, I love it. Dr. Amorino has put a new spin on teaching by demonstrating that students can make their own art teaching so much more meaningful than what we typically see in classrooms. Dr. Amorino’s course, “Foundations of Graduate Study in Art Education I” thoroughly inspired me and made me feel confident that I have made the best possible choice for my career, and my future.
3:30-5:00pm
SEX AND EXCESS: Helping Students Survive the Party Wednesday, October 27, 2004 University Center Little Theatre We welcome all members of the college community to come hear the highly entertaining and dynamic speaker Elaine Pasqua. A survivor of sex, drugs and rock and roll, Elaine shares how high-risk behaviors can interfere more with a successful college life than one thought. Sharing stories of those whose lives were changed by what they believed to be inconsequential decisions, and through role-playing and interactive exercises, Elaine discusses the effects of alcohol on college performance as well as DUI’s, increased violence, physical injuries and sex under the influence. In addition, she will present the effects of illegal drugs on college performance, date rape, date rape drugs, and the risks of unprotected sex, including sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS. We look forward to seeing you. Be prepared for a fun and extremely entertaining afternoon. For further information please contact Kim Arnold at (908) 737-4858.
Candlelight Vigil The Office of Community and Disability Services, in partnership with the YWCA of Eastern Union County, is attempting to raise awareness on the issue of domestic violence by hosting a candlelight vigil in honor of October as Domestic Violence Month. You are welcome to join us on Wednesday, October 20, 2004, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm in the University Center, room 228. Participating in the vigil could be a unique educational opportunity for you and your students to connect their academic understanding to the real life experiences of survivors. For more information, contact the Office of Community and Disability Services at (908) 737-5150 or stop their office located in the University Center, room 315.
This class, which lays the theoretical foundation for the entire program, stresses the importance of teaching in such a way as to help the students express their art from within and not just regurgitate and imitate. Dr. Amorino said that like all healthy programs, this one is constantly evolving. This program, formed by looking at contemporary research in art education, suggests that developmental psychology is a critical area of understanding for art teachers. “We understand art-making as an intellectual behavior. Our students also come to apprehend the effects of materials on idea formation. And ultimately we want to cultivate teachers who can translate these conceptual understandings into classroom practice,” Dr. Amorino explained. “Our program recognizes art as a form of global intelligence involving sensory, kinesthetic, emotional, and cognitive interactions.” For any student who loves art and enjoys intellectual stimulation, Kean University’s Art Education Program is an excellent way to get on the path to a rewarding and stimulating career.
The Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) Society Scholarship The Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) Society awards $1000 scholarships for students in business or law. The CPCU Society promotes continuing education, professionalism, research, high ethical standards, and community service by property-casualty insurance professionals. The NJ Chapter offers $1000 scholarship annually to students whose curriculum represents the disciplines from which the industry draws employees. Deadline to apply is March 15, 2005. For more information visit their website at http://www.njcpcu.org/njchapter.htm
IRECTLY TO YOUR EMAIL. Extreme Makeover The Cougar’s Den! When returning students walked into the Cougar’s Den on September 1, they thought they made a wrong turn in the University Center. The only thing that has not changed about the Cougar’s Den is its location. Our new food vendor, Gourmet Dining Services, has completely renovated it. The Cougar’s Den was old, inadequate, dim, and boring, so when Gourmet Dining Services took over operations, one of the first things on their list was to make the Cougar’s Den a more appealing place for Kean Students. A fifties theme was chosen for the snack bar and a coffeehouse theme was chosen for the pub. Starting with replacing the ceiling and repainting the walls, what we once knew as the Cougar’s Den has now been transformed into a fifties diner. Within the Cougar’s Den, you can find the new Boars Head brand Deli offering a variety of sub sandwiches and meal combinations. With retro artwork and chrome counters, tables and chairs, the new Cougar’s Den is a more appealing place to eat and relax. The Cougar’s Den Snack Bar is now open Monday thru Thursday 11am until 11pm, Fridays 11am until 9pm, Saturdays 8am until 9pm and Sundays 11am until 10pm. The Boars Head Deli is open the same hours, except on Saturday it opens at 11am. In addition, the newly refurbished coffeehouse features new sofas, couches, a coffee bar, tables and chairs and truly makes the old pub feel more like an actual coffeehouse. Authentic Starbucks coffee, also new to the Cougar’s Den, allows student the option to order a wide variety of coffees and lattés. And, with Waitress service, students can avoid the hassle of waiting on line, relax with their friends, and sit back and enjoy entrees delivered right to their table. The coffeehouse is open Monday thru Friday 11am until 3pm and reopens Monday thru Thursday 5pm to 10pm. Coffee service is available daily beginning at 7am. For more information about the Cougar’s Den coffeehouse or snack bar, please feel free to contact Gourmet Dining Services by calling (908) 737-5160 or visit them on the Internet at http://www.g-d-s.com/kean.htm.
Get PAID To Write! Would you like to write about fascinating topics and interesting people all while getting paid for your efforts? If so, this is your opportunity to actively engage in your college experience. Writing for The Cougar’s Byte is a great way to get involved, earn some extra income and build your resume. We're looking for dedicated students who can write well, enjoy meeting new people and commit some of their time to a riveting weekly newsletter. If you love Kean and love writing, then by all means, let us know! Contact Toni Cerbo, Student Media Managing Editor, at (908) 737-5180, stop by The Cougar’s Byte office in the University Center, room 215, or email tcerbo@kean.edu with a little bio of yourself and include writing samples.
Cougar’s Den Coffee House & Café Join us in the newly renovated Cougar’s Den Starbuck’s Coffee House for breakfast, including freshly brewed Starbuck’s coffee and your favorite pastry, from 7:00 – 11:00 am. Not only do we offer a sensational breakfast, but you can also enjoy lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm and dinner from 5:00 – 10:00 pm.
Cougar’s Den Snack Bar Did you know that the Snack Bar is open on Saturday mornings from 8:00 to 10:30 am for all your breakfast favorites? Well it is, and it features eggs to order, omelets, French toast, and pancakes. And if that isn’t enough, you can also order your choice of hot ad cold breakfast cereals, donuts, bagels and pastry. In addition to the fabulous breakfast options, the Snack Bar also offers a wide selection of healthy meals on a daily basis. Offering your favorite salads – Chicken Caesar, Buffalo Chicken and Garden salads, made to order. Grilled chicken sandwiches, turkey burgers, veggie burgers, pasta of the day and Boar’s Head deli selections are also available for your dining pleasure.
I CARAMBA “I Caramba”, hosted by Lambda Theta Alpha, introduced Kean Students, especially Latinos, to the U.S. Military. During the event held from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm in the University Center Atrium on September 28, 2004, students received a free “Join the Army” t-shirt when they signed up to receive additional information about the military. As an extra treat, an airbrush artist was available to paint designs on the back of their t-shirts.
For more information regarding daily menu features please visit the Ken website and click on the link for Food Service.
International Student Association The International Student Association invites you to join them on Wednesday, October 20, at 3:30 pm, in the University Center, room 226B, for some snacks and refreshments and a chance to meet members of the association. Come learn about the participation and interaction between international students, and students of the Kean University community. New members are always welcome. For more information, please call them at (908) 737-5199, email them at ISA_Kean@yahoo.com or visit their office in the University Center room 312.
Family Day Set for October 23 Family Day will take place on Saturday, October 23. Students, families and friends, as well as faculty, administrators and staff, are invited to join in the University-wide festivities.
Estabrook Garden Dedication
Admission is free. For more information or a schedule of events, please call the Office of University Relations at (908) 737-NEWS (6397).
President Dawood Farahi cordially invites the Kean community to join Anne Evans Estabrook and her family at the dedication of The Estabrook Garden on Friday, October 22, at 5 p.m. in front of Kean Hall. In memory of the late Kenneth L. Estabrook, Esq., who served on the Kean University Board of Trustees from 1995 to 2003, attendees are encouraged to wear colorful bowties.
Kids Are In Good Hands At Kean!
Kean Star Search
Registration in Wilkins Theater and lunch on the Downs Hall Patio will commence the day’s events at 11:30 a.m., immediately followed by a welcome address by President Dawood Farahi at 12:30 p.m. The day will continue with a series of fun-filled activities including a scavenger hunt, seminars and workshops, campus tours, sporting events, entertainment and a barbecue dinner. Attendees will also have an opportunity to meet some of Kean’s deans, faculty, administrators and staff, while learning firsthand all that the University has to offer. Visitors may choose to attend a cabaret-style performance featuring the University’s most talented singers, dancers and actors, or watch a stand-up comedy hour. They may also cheer on Kean’s women’s soccer team as it takes on Rutgers University – Newark at 2 p.m. in Alumni Stadium. The evening will conclude with a tailgate barbecue at 5 p.m., immediately followed by the Kean University vs. Rowan University football game at 7 p.m. at Alumni Stadium.
The Child Care Center at Kean University is a wonderful place, with great facilities and a caring, nurturing staff. There are many fun things for children to play with out in the yard, as well as indoors. “Each child is an individual, and we try to build their day around what interests them,” said the Center’s director, Ann MacVicar. In addition to the many games and activities that the children enjoy, there is an incredibly cute dwarf rabbit, Hopper, whom the children treasure playing with, petting, and feeding. “We reflect and demonstrate the best practices in early childhood education,” Ann declared. “We work pretty closely with the early childhood education department in addition to encouraging independence and confidence in the children. We provide opportunities for the development of literacy skills, mathematical manipulation, learning about the environment (particularly that of our Kean community), and physical play in the yard.” Ann further explained that learning about the Kean community involves taking walks with the children around campus to see what they are interested in and curious about. The Center then develops classroom projects based on what the children seem to be most interested in. “For example,” Ann explained, “while the New Academic Building II has been under construction, children have been visiting the site, sketching what they see, meeting with the architect, and representing construction in their play.” Not only is the Center a fun and educational place, it also offers a safe, enriching environment where Kean parents can be sure that their children are in good hands. “People who work with children need to care about them, respect them, and be willing to help them in their growth,” said Ann. That is precisely why the Center employs certified teachers, graduate assistants taking classes in early childhood education, and students, many of whom are intending to major in early childhood education or studying education of some kind. Ann added that the Center also serves as a learning site for Kean students who need to interact with children, whether their majors are music, psychology, theater, etc. The Child Care Center serves the students and staff of Kean by providing care for children between the ages of 2 1/2 and 5 during the day and school-age children under 12 in the evening. For anyone interested in receiving care for their children, the application process is easy! Simply submit the initial enrollment form, the semester before you wish to enroll your child. Next, a visit is scheduled, for parent and child, in order to complete an application, including a developmental history and physical examination. It’s that easy! Or, if you are interested in providing care, or require more information, please contact Ann MacVicar at (908) 737-5302.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to showcase your talent. Sign up b e f o r e November 3, 2004 to perform in the following categories: Female Vocalist, Male Vocalist, Individual Dance, Group Dance, Group Vocal, Instrumental, Variety. Live performances are limited to 5 minutes. Please submit a short video or summary so that judges can determine the appropriate category. There will be one winner from each category. Winners will receive a $100 gift certificate.
Pumpkin Party Bring your families and friends to the Pumpkin Party at the Kean University Child Care Center (KUCC) on Thursday, October 28, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. A donation of $6 will entitle you to enjoy refreshments and carve a pumpkin to take home -- just in time for Halloween. Hosted by Kean University Child Care Center and its parent-teacher organization, Child Care Families at Kean (CCFK), all proceeds will go to providing field trips and other extra-curricular activities to the children at the Center. For more information or to RSVP, contact KUCC at (908) 737-5300.
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