distinguished lecturer
diversity scholar
Christina Chan-Park, a master’s student in information science, was named a 2012-13 Diversity Scholar by the Association of Research Libraries. She is one of 14 students in the nation, and one of two from Texas universities, selected to participate in the association’s Initiative to Recruit a Diverse Workforce. The initiative, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, was designed to create a diverse academic and research library community and workforce that will better meet the new challenges of global competition and changing demographics in the library field.
Gary Payne
nEw onlinE dEgrEEs UNT continues to be a leader in distance learning and making education more accessible to working professionals. UNT’s new accelerated online program offers the opportunity to earn master’s degrees or academic certificates fully online in eight-week sessions, and students can join or re-join the curriculum in any session. The programs are currently being offered to students pursuing master’s degrees in the College of Information and College of education. A pilot program for a master’s degree in learning technologies launched this fall. In January, UNT begins offering a master’s in educational leadership. More will be offered in the future. Visit lt.unt.edu/enroll and edmastersonline.unt.edu.
Tiny materials in medical implants, jet engine components and highway bridges help contribute to their surface degradation. Sergei Shipilov, a research professor of materials science and engineering, is working to develop ways to enhance the performance of such materials and to extend their lifetime. Shipilov’s contributions and achievements in the field of corrosion research, practice and education across Canada and the globe recently earned him the distinction of Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Distinguished Lecturer.
UNT Alumni Association Leah Hatfield (’77), above, has remained active on campus long after graduation. She is one of the UNT Alumni Association’s Alumni Ambassadors, a group formed so association board members can continue to be involved in the organization after their term expires — although membership is open to all Alumni Association members. Ambassadors attend activities such as the ring ceremony for graduating seniors and visit with new members at the Alumni Pavilion at UNT’s Apogee Stadium during football games. They also help at graduation receptions, welcoming new alumni. “I just love the kids,” Hatfield says. “That’s what really drives me. I hear some of the best life stories talking to them.” Diane Moore Grandey (’68), who founded the organization in 2009 and serves as the coordinator, says the group is enthusiastic about UNT and the Alumni Association. “Most members are involved in many ways on campus and love UNT,” she says. “We enjoy any opportunity to spread the word about the wonderful things going on here.” Hatfield, who frequently attends concerts, sporting events and other UNT activities, says alumni have a responsibility to support their alma mater. But she also has an extra incentive to attend events. “I just love to have fun at UNT,” she says. A new board has just been elected to the UNT Alumni Association. Learn more at northtexan.unt.edu/news. To join the association or learn more, visit untalumni.com, email alumni@unt.edu or call 940-565-2834.
Winter 2012
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