Season Wrap-up A primary reason that the L3 amphitheater and outdoor classroom were created on the Fort Wayne campus was to involve the university community in civil discourse. In keeping with this theme, the L3 Forums were created. These forums encourage open dialogue among the entire university community. Indiana Tech offered three such forums this past semester. The forums begin with a single theme that encourages discussion on individual ideas and perceptions. Facilitators allow open discussion while remaining neutral, asking questions to help facilitate the dialogue. The first forum was a result of the Hurricane Katrina
situation, asking the question “What is our responsibility in times of domestic crisis?” The second forum, titled “War: What is it good for?” led by President Snyder, discussed the reasons that wars are started and their positive or negative impacts and outcomes. The third forum, held in the Andorfer Theater due to chilly winter weather, focused on prejudice and diversity. Elaine Pontillo, vice president for Academic Affairs, is the driving force behind the forums. “I believe that a university should provide opportunities for students to explore their thoughts and ideas with others. We are trying to create a more learning-centered atmosphere by holding forums that encourage open discussions outside of the classroom,” stated Pontillo.
In Memoriam
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The forums have received very positive feedback from students. Some faculty members require their class to attend the forums, but many students come voluntarily to join in discussions with fellow students, faculty and staff. New forum ideas and facilitators are already being planned for next year, including topics such as relationshipbased education (a follow-up to December’s campus wide symposium), a follow-up on the prejudice and diversity issue, and adoption. While faculty and staff are asked to develop new ideas for topics, students will also be encouraged to join in the planning process. “Anyone in the university community can come up with ideas,” added Pontillo.
We have learned of the deaths of the following alumni and friends:
Harold F. Wiblin Harlan, IN BSEE 1973
Maurice Carpenter Reedsport, OR BSDR 1957
Robert W. Niemeyer Germantown, WI BSME 1942
Roswell Samuelson Cedar Rapids, IA BSRE 1951
Dhu aine Davis Bruceville, IN BSEE 1955
John C. O’Donnell Fair Oaks, CA BSEE 1962
Marcel Cloutier Framingham, MA BSEE 1959
Ronald E. Dupuy Bullhead City, AZ BSME 1959
Russell E. Lutz Mohnton, PA BSCE 1949
William W. Warren Telford, PA BSRE 1951
Albert Wanzie Mount Carmel, PA BSCE 1948
Harry J. Okeson Fort Wayne, IN BSCE 1959
Robert Ickes Barto, PA BSEE 1949
Willard G. Bloss Brentwood, TN BSRE 1949
Trends | Winter 2006