Vol. 24 No. 2 - August 26, 2019

Features

  • Sunderland Foundation Awards $1.1 Million Grant to Truman for Autism Center

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    Truman is one step closer to repurposing a historic community building into northeast Missouri’s first interprofessional autism center thanks to a significant grant from a philanthropic organization.
     
    The Sunderland Foundation of Kansas City recently notified Truman it would be supporting the Greenwood Center renovation project with a total donation of $1.1 million over two years. The University has already received $600,000, with the remaining amount scheduled to be awarded in 2020.
     
    “This center is a very ambitious project, and the investment by the Sunderland Foundation is helping us take a huge step forward in being able to assist individuals and families affected by autism,” Ernie Hughes, vice president for university advancement, said.
     
    Since 2015, Truman has been working to repurpose the former Greenwood Elementary School into an interprofessional center dedicated to serving those with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. In addition to licensed professionals on staff, the comprehensive center will provide a valuable opportunity for students to engage in hands-on, high-impact learning experiences.
     
    The Greenwood Center is an ideal project for the Sunderland Foundation. The Foundation seeks to foster “a stronger, safer, and more vibrant future for the community we serve,” and specializes in grants for planning, design, construction and renovation, particularly in the fields of higher education, youth servicing agencies and health care facilities.
     
    The Sunderland Foundation grant provides an invaluable external investment in the Greenwood Center as the University seeks state funds and other grants to complete construction.


    Watch the video to learn how the Greenwood Center will impact northeast Missouri and serve individuals with autism.

  • Truman Scores a Top 10 Ranking from Washington Monthly

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    Truman has again been recognized by Washington Monthly as one of the top master’s universities in the nation, coming in at No. 10 on the publication’s 2019 college rankings.

    This marks the seventh year in a row Truman has been included in the top 10. Truman is the lone Missouri school to be included on the entire Master’s University list, which ranks 200 institutions.

    On the “Best Bang for the Buck” list included in Washington Monthly’s college rankings, Truman is No. 26 overall in the Midwest region, and it was the highest-rated public university from the state.

    The Washington Monthly rankings are unique in that they place an importance on social mobility, research, and community and national service. Along with traditional benchmarks such as graduation rates and costs, schools are rewarded for criteria including the number of first-generation students enrolled and the percentage of students receiving Pell Grants or participating in ROTC.

    “Above all else, a college education should be empowering, and our inclusion in the Washington Monthly rankings underscores the real value of a degree from Truman,” University President Susan L. Thomas said. “A Truman education enables our students to reach their full potential and inspires them to enrich their communities and make a difference in the lives of others.”

    The college guide and rankings appear in the magazine’s September/October issue and can be found online.
  • Fraternity Member Dedicates Summer to Helping Those with Disabilities

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    This summer, Zachary Plunkett spent more than 10 weeks cycling across the nation to raise funds and awareness for those with disabilities.

    Plunkett is currently president of Pi Kappa Phi and traveled with the fraternity’s national philanthropy, The Ability Experience. Each summer, The Ability Experience organizes three events: Gear Up Florida, Build America and Journey of Hope. This year, teams of each event collectively visited 33 states, cycled 12,700 miles and worked on build sites at six summer camps. Participants represented more than 57 colleges and universities across the United States.

    Plunkett participated in the Journey of Hope TransAmerica route with a team consisting solely of Pi Kappa Phi members. Along the route, the team made frequent stops at local community sponsors for Friendship Visits. These visits consisted of cyclists connecting with those they are riding in support of as a way of breaking barriers and highlighting the abilities of all people, and often included activities such as dance offs, games and sports.

    The mission of The Ability Experience is to use shared experiences to support people with disabilities and develop men of Pi Kappa Phi into servant leaders. Combined with corporate sponsorships, the 2019 Ability Experience teams raised more than $827,000 for people with disabilities across the nation.

    More information about The Ability Experience and their summer events is available at abilityexperience.org.
  • Missouri Government Internship Informational Meeting Scheduled

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    An informational meeting for the Spring 2020 Missouri Government Internship Program will take place at 4:45 p.m. Sept. 11 in McClain 212.

    The Missouri Government Internship Program provides students with the opportunity to gain meaningful experience in the fast-paced world of state politics. Selected interns will work as full-time staff assistants with a legislator or state public official. By interning at the Missouri Capitol, students will expand their knowledge of state government, build a diversified professional network and establish a basis for future professional positions.

    Many former interns have gone on to serve as legislative directors, chiefs of staff, judicial clerks, policy analysts, lobbyists and public officials as a direct result of what they learned and the connections they made as interns.

    The varying daily tasks throughout each office could include attending public hearings, completing legislative research, writing and editing published materials, constituent relations or assisting with basic office work.

    The Truman State University Foundation provides selected interns with a $2,500 stipend. Interested students should click here for more information and to view the internship application. Additional information will be presented at the Sept. 11 meeting. Questions can be directed to mogovinternship@truman.edu.
  • Sigma Delta Pi Named “Honor Chapter” for 26th Consecutive Year

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    Truman’s Rho Rho Chapter of Sigma Delta Pi, the National Collegiate Hispanic Honors Society, was named an “Honor Chapter” for its outstanding activities in 2018-19.

    This is the 26th consecutive year the chapter has received this prestigious distinction, marking the longest continuous “Honor Chapter” run in the 100-year history of Sigma Delta Pi. Truman also earned the Octavio Paz Award for maintaining “Honor Chapter” status each year during the 2016-19 triennium.

    Lucy F. Lee, Rho Rho chapter adviser for all 26 award years and national president of Sigma Delta Pi, has been instrumental in earning this national award that was bestowed on only 16 chapters nationwide in 2019. Due to her exemplary work for nearly three decades as chapter adviser at Truman, the national chapter adviser of the year award was officially renamed the Lucy F. Lee Award during Sigma Delta Pi’s national triennial convention.

    Each summer, the 625 chapters of Sigma Delta Pi nationwide are asked to submit an annual report detailing numerous activities and projects from the academic year. Based on these reports, the national executive committee choose approximately 10-15 “Honor Chapters” annually. This recognition is based upon the caliber of chapter projects that reflect the Sigma Delta Pi mission of honoring excellence in the study of the Spanish language, contributing to cultural understanding and upholding the goals of the society.
  • Dougherty to Serve as PR Intern

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    The Public Relations Office has named Mollie Dougherty, a senior communication major, as the fall 2019 intern.

    Dougherty is from St. Charles, Mo., and is a 2016 graduate of Duchesne High School. She is the daughter of Michael and Kathleen Dougherty.

    As the public relations intern, Dougherty will help write for the University newsletter, the Truman Today, as well as the University alumni magazine, the Truman Review. Additionally, she will assist in coordinating Family Day activities and the Kohlenberg Lyceum events.

    On campus, Dougherty is an active member in her social sorority and the communication honor fraternity Lambda Pi Eta. She also serves as a representative on the Panhellenic Council.

    Dougherty is eager to be serving the University in this role and expand upon her knowledge of public relations. She plans to pursue a career in public relations and anticipates applying the skills she will learn throughout this internship in her future career.
  • Thank You, Move-In Volunteers

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    The following organizations, students and University employees volunteered during Move-In Day, Aug. 14.

    Alpha Gamma Delta
    Alpha Gamma Rho
    Alpha Kappa Lambda
    Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
    Alpha Phi Omega
    Alpha Sigma Alpha
    Alpha Sigma Gamma
    American Medical Student Association
    Baptist Student Union
    Beta Alpha Psi
    Beta Theta Pi
    Blue Key Honor Society
    Campus Christian Fellowship
    Campus Outreach
    Cardinal Key
    Catholic Newman Center
    Delta Chi
    Delta Phi Epsilon
    Delta Sigma Pi
    Delta Zeta
    Iron Dogs
    Kappa Alpha Psi
    Lambda Chi Alpha
    Minority Ambassador’s Program
    Mock Trial
    Momentum Ministry
    National Education Association
    Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.
    Phi Kappa Tau
    Phi Sigma Kappa
    Pi Kappa Phi
    Residence Hall Association
    Sigma Alpha
    Sigma Alpha Iota
    Sigma Kappa
    Sigma Phi Epsilon
    Sigma Sigma Sigma
    Student Government
    Tau Kappa Epsilon
    Tau Lambda Sigma
    Tsunami Womens Ultimate
    The University Swingers

Announcements

  • Activities Fair

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  • Forensics to Host Student Interest Meeting Aug. 27

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    The Truman Forensic Union will host a meeting for all students interested in learning more about the school’s national award-winning speech and debate program. The Truman Forensic union is a co-curricular program in the Communication Department featuring intercollegiate competition in both speech and debate events. Students involved in Truman Forensics get to engage in competition with other students from around the nation and develop their critical thinking and communication skills. The team has a long history of success and most recently earned 14 state championships and third place in the nation in Lincoln-Douglas debate.
     
    Any students interested in learning more about the program can attend the information meeting at 6 p.m. Aug. 27 in Barnett Hall 1212. Those unable to attend but would still like to learn more can contact director of forensics Chris Outzen or assistant director of forensics Craig Hennigan for more information.
  • Call for Proposals for Grants-in-Aid of Scholarship and Research

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    The Office of Student Research is accepting Grants-in-Aid of Scholarship and Research (GIASR) applications for research and creative scholarship conducted in fall 2019. Grant applications may request up to $750 and can cover student stipends, supplies and travel to conduct research. Complete guidelines for the GIASR application can be found at the Office of Student Research website. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. Aug. 28. Any questions can be directed to osr@truman.edu.
  • Bike Sale to Benefit Co-op

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    Truman will conduct a bicycle sale at 8:30 a.m. Aug. 29 at the Military Storage Building on Florence Street (across from the tennis courts).  The bikes will be sold to faculty, staff and students. A Truman ID must be presented to register for a buyer number. Registration will begin at 8:15 a.m. at the Military Storage Building. Buyers will be limited to purchase one bike per person.

    There are approximately 28 bikes for sale. Bikes will be sold for $20 (includes tax). Payment must be made by cash or check at the sale site. Bikes will be sold “as is” with no guarantees, refunds or liability from Truman.

    Proceeds from the bike sale will benefit the Bike Co-op.


    Campus Guidelines for Cyclists
    Anyone operating a bicycle on campus must obey the same traffic control regulations that apply to cars and motorcycles, such as stopping for stop signs and riding in the right-hand portion of the roadway. Bicycles ridden after dark must be equipped with a headlight, large red reflector on the rear, and white or amber pedal and spoke reflectors.

    Bicycles parked on campus must:
    • not be attached to any trees or light poles;
    • not be left in buildings, entrances, ramps or any other hazardous location;
    • be left in campus bicycle racks.

    Bicycles which are illegally parked are subject to parking tickets and/or confiscation by the Department of Public Safety. Bicycles should be ridden on streets, not on sidewalks, lawns or parkways that are property of Truman. Students are strongly encouraged to register their bikes with Public Safety. Registration permits are issued free of charge. More information may be found at police.truman.edu/parking-services.
  • SAB Seeks Committee Member

    The Student Activities Board is looking for one student to serve as a student-at-large on a committee to select new members to SAB. Interested students must be available the afternoons/evenings of Sept. 2-3. Applications are available at sab.truman.edu/apply and are due by 11:59 p.m. Aug. 29. Contact amm1182@truman.edu with any questions.
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  • Applications for 2019 TEDx Conference Open Until Aug. 29

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    Speaker applications for the second annual TEDx Truman State University conference are due Aug. 29.

    TED is a non-profit organization that sponsors independent conferences all over the world. These conferences strive to spread new ideas through short, powerful talks that can cover a wide range of topics.

    TEDx Truman State University, sponsored by Student Government, will be Nov. 10. The conference will showcase several talks by Truman students, faculty members and alumni across a variety of disciplines. These talks will be broadcast on an internationally acclaimed platform.

    Applications can be found here. Further questions can be directed to Shania Montúfar.
  • Student Government Fall 2019 Elections

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    Petitions for student senate are now available and can be found in the Student Government Office located in Student Union Building 1107. Voting begins 8 a.m. Sept. 9 and closes 10 a.m. Sept. 12. Vote at vote.truman.edu.
  • Van Driving Classes Scheduled

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    This is a required class to drive Truman fleet full-size vans. Student drivers must also complete Waiver of Vehicle Usage Policy available at police.truman.edu.

    Aug. 27
    3 p.m.

    Aug. 28
    3 p.m.

    Classes will take place at the General Services Building located at the corner of Patterson and Franklin streets. Participants must sign up in advance to attend. Class size is limited. Call 660.785.4177 or email joycecook@truman.edu.
  • Labor Day Hours at the Rec

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  • McNair Program Applications Open Sept. 1-Oct. 1

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    The McNair Program supports and prepares underrepresented students for graduate studies. Paid summer research internships, funds for graduate school visits and conferences, and seminars and academic counseling are just a few of the benefits the program has to offer.

    Freshmen, sophomores and juniors are welcome to come for pizza and information about what the McNair Program can do for them.

    McNair Information Session
    Aug. 27
    4:30-5:30 p.m.
    Student Union Building Georgian Room A

    McNair Information and Application Work Sessions in Adair House
    Sept. 6
    4:30-5:30 p.m.

    Sept. 10
    4-5 p.m.

    Sept. 19
    4:30-5:30 p.m.

    Sept. 23
    4:30-5:30 p.m.

    For more information visit mcnair.truman.edu.
  • Downtown New Student Welcome

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    All new Truman students are invited downtown for a Kirksville welcome, 5-7 p.m. Sept. 8. Businesses, churches and organizations will have tables set up on the courthouse lawn offering coupons, product samples and more. There will be free food for students presenting a Truman ID. For more information, call 660.665.3766.
  • SAB Hosts Student Talent Show

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    SAB will host TruTalent, a talent show for Truman students, Sept. 11. TruTalent gives students the opportunity to showcase their unique talents. Come and watch your friends perform on the quad starting at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be provided. Anyone interested in performing can sign up here.
  • Student Loans Available Through University Foundation

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    Students with financial needs that may interfere with their ability to continue their education can seek assistance through the Truman State University Foundation Loan Program.

    Foundation loans can come in the form of short-term loans, long-term loans, access loans and cultural loans specifically for study abroad trips. Applications go through the Financial Aid Office and are repaid directly to the University. Banks and outside lenders are not involved in the process.

    To be eligible for a Foundation loan students must be enrolled on a full-time basis and be in good academic standing. Students also need to demonstrate an ability to repay the loan in a timely manner. Deferments of up to five years are available for cultural and long-term loans, provided the student is enrolled on a full-time basis.

    In addition to scholarship assistance, the loan program is an example of the immediate impact of donations to the Truman State University Foundation. Gifts from alumni and friends allow Truman to provide assistance directly to students as they pursue their education.

    For more information on the Foundation loan program, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@truman.edu, at 660.785.4130 or in person at McClain Hall 103.
  • Student Affairs and Career Center Relocated

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    Student Affairs and the Career Center have been relocated. The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and the Office of Citizenship and Community Standards are now located in Student Union Building 3100. The Career Center is now located in Student Union Building 1110. Telephone numbers for each area will remain the same.
  • Retirement Reception for Cindy Woods

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  • Annual Fund Internship Available for Spring Semester


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    The Office of Advancement is accepting applications for the spring 2020 annual fund internship.

    The intern will gain experience working on the fundraising side of a non-profit organization within Truman, specifically the Truman Foundation. Responsibilities will be divided between three main focus areas: Tel-Alumni coordinator, Office of Advancement projects and office hours with a focus on development projects such as the Student Giving Campaign and the Student Alumni Association.

    Qualified applicants will be a business or communication major with a minimum of 2.75 GPA. The intern will work 15 hours a week for approximately 11 weeks and receive class credit commensurate with their time in the office. A supplementary stipend is also included.

    For a complete job description, visit TruPositions or click here. Deadline for applications is Dec. 6. Contact Michael Burbee with further questions.
  • DPS Hours

    Aug. 26-30
    7:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

    Aug. 31-Sept. 1
    Closed

    Sept. 2
    4-10 p.m.

    In case of an emergency, call 9-1-1. To have an officer dispatched for a non-emergency, call 660.665.5621.
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  • Next Issue

    The next issue of the Truman Today will be available Sept. 3.

Notables

  • Notables

    Michael Goggin, professor of physics, and collaborators from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and the Naval Research Laboratory had their paper “Direct Excitation of a Single Quantum Dot with Cavity-SPDC Photons” published in Optics Express. This paper is a result of work done while Goggin was on sabbatical at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign during spring 2016.

    Truman students Abby Held, Molly Huebner and Jake Collins gave research poster presentations at the 2019 MERCURY Conference on Computational Chemistry at Furman University in Greenville, S.C. July 17-19. Chemistry majors Held and Huebner presented on the design and discovery of inhibitors for the enzyme aromatase, which is implicated in breast cancer and endometriosis. Collins, a sophomore biochemistry and molecular biology major, presented his research on the catalytic mechanism of DNA polymerase I in a thermophile. These students will be continuing their research projects during the academic year in the Miller Research Lab.

    millerchemstudents19.jpg Abby Held, Jake Collins, Molly Huebner and Bill Miller III