Caldwell University Conversations Podcast
Our CALDWELL UNIVERSITY CONVERSATIONS podcast features engaging guests who share news and information about Caldwell University students, faculty, staff and alumni.
What I did during my summer internship
Caldwell students Paige Silvia and Connor Woods join Colette Liddy to share their experiences in summer internships.
Woods interned with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) working in member supervision in the data specialist group. He learned how FINRA reviews and conducts detailed assessments in looking for risk at member firms. He shares how it was an incredible opportunity to work with Blotter Analytics and the Associated Person Specialist Team and build his analytical skills using Microsoft Excel, Sequel, Python, Microsoft Power BI and Data IQ.
Prior to the internship, Woods, a financial economics major and data analytics minor, earned a Bloomberg Financial Markets certification by training with his professors in Caldwell’s new state-of-the-art Bloomberg Finance Lab, featuring Bloomberg Terminals, the same software and technology used globally by leading business and financial professionals. The training proved helpful at FINRA when he used the Bloomberg Terminals and already knew their ins and outs. Woods also earned a certificate in Microsoft Power BI, which helped him land his internship since his group at FINRA was looking for candidates trained in the software.
Paige Silvia interned in the STEM Advance program on campus. She was mentored by Chemistry Professor Xiaolei Gao, Ph.D. A biology major with a chemistry major, Silvia worked one on one with Gao on C-H activation, a key concept in synthetic organic chemistry. Silvia shares how the experience was educational, challenging and rigorous. STEM Advance was made possible by a competitive grant Caldwell received from the U.S. Department of Education Hispanic-Serving Institutions STEM and Articulation Program to benefit Hispanic and low-income students planning careers in science, math and computer science.
Woods and Silvia expressed their gratitude for how Caldwell professors and their courses are equipping them for their careers with essential skills including learning to present to audiences and to communicate effectively.
The Way Forward: Engaging NJ Students and Future Educators
As students in K-12 and colleges return to more consistent in-person classes and activities we look at the ways university educators are moving forward to support students and future teachers. Our guests on “Caldwell University Conversations” talk about their work preparing future teachers to address any learning loss in K-12 classrooms and how they have adjusted to support university students to meet their educational needs.
Catherine Lundquist, Ph.D. from the Division of Education at Caldwell University, a former kindergarten teacher, stressed the importance of making sure that future teachers are skilled in addressing the social and emotional needs of students, particularly for the very youngest. Patricia Garruto, Ed.D., professor of Mathematics at Caldwell, talks about how the changes in K-12 learning have affected Math learning and assessments. She stresses the importance of professors making connections early on with university students.
Julian Meletta, Ph.D., director of Field Based Education at Caldwell, talks about meeting the needs of undergraduate students including giving extra supports at the beginning of a college career. Some of those might be: using the electronic reminders that they had in high school at first and understanding that some incoming students may not have been in an in person classroom for two years.
Meletta shared how the Division of Education has supported the student teachers through the pandemic and how that has benefited the outside school districts.She spoke about how Caldwell’s pre-service students were assets to the environments they were teaching in because some teachers were not as technologically skilled. Because Caldwell’s education classes are engaging, the student teachers were able to show their cooperating teachers more advanced technological teaching tools.
Garruto shared how the Mathematics Department challenges the high achieving students including through the new historic STEM grant which enables undergraduate students to enrich the learning experience of other students who benefit from this grant. All the students gain valuable knowledge and experience, and develop a sense of accomplishment. She said they encourage high achievers through engaging research opportunities and the Honors Program.
The guests talk about the ways some New Jersey teachers and districts are offering or before or after-hours programs to address learning gaps and support parents. Meletta said that this July Caldwell University will reopen its summer tutoring program for elementary school children. Current teachers and graduate students planning to become reading specialists will conduct the program.
In encouraging others to join the profession, they shared the rewards they have experienced in their teaching careers.
Celebrating National Black Catholic History Month
On this episode of “Caldwell University Conversations,” we celebrate National Black Catholic History Month highlighting Black Catholic historymakers, several who are on the road to sainthood. Our guests, Theology and Philosophy Department professor Dr. Valerie Lewis-Mosley, History professor Dr. Marie Mullaney, Director of the Educational Opportunity Fund Program Andrei St. Felix, and Director of Campus Ministry Colleen O’Brien join host Colette Liddy to talk about the culture, experiences, suffering, courage and faith of men and women trailblazers including Servant of God Sister Dr. Thea Bowman, Daniel Rudd, Venerable Henriette Delille, St. Martin de Porres, Servant of God Mother Mary Lange, Venerable Pierre Toussaint, Billie Holiday and Dr. Thomas Turner.
CU Students Shine in Competitive Summer Internships
Inspired and forward-thinking! Our guests today certainly fall into that category! On this episode of Caldwell University Conversations, Colette Liddy and co-host Communication and Media Studies student Steph Lopez talk with Caldwell students Yaman Thapa and Akwasi Osei-Du about their unique summer internships and how CU coursework and faculty members prepared them for these opportunities. Thapa, a chemistry major with a neuroscience minor, was chosen for the Bernard S. and Sophie G. Gould MIT Summer Research Program in Biology, which is offered in collaboration with MIT’s Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences and is open to advanced sophomores and juniors who are not MIT students. Osei-Dui, who has a double major in financial economics and computer information systems with a concentration in business systems, interned at the global banking firm Credit Suisse. They talked about the importance of students doing field work and internships, the relationships they formed in networking and their hopes and dreams.
Caldwell University’s Resilient Class of 2021 Graduates
In this episode of “Caldwell University Conversations,” we talk with three outstanding 2021 graduates about their time at Caldwell University — how they have grown and how they have been encouraged to step out with fortitude in pursuing their dreams. Sophie Hicks, Madison Perry, and Keith Kyewalabye share their range of experiences which include academic honors and achievements, being selected as the commencement speaker, (Kyewalabye) volunteering in Belize serving those on the margins, speaking up for racial justice, teaching science virtually to students in Central America, competing as student-athletes, and engaging in the many university musical ensembles, cultural experiences and service opportunities
Keith Kyewalabye with President Matthew Whelan at graduation (Left). Sophie Hicks (Middle). Madison Perry (Right).
Nepalese Students Bring Innovation, Culture and Spirit to CU
In this episode of “Caldwell University Conversations,” Colette Liddy is joined by Stephanie Lopez, a senior and communications and media studies major, as they talk with an alumnus and students from Nepal. Among the University’s international students, the largest number come from Nepal and they contribute greatly to enhancing the fabric of Caldwell. Students Prasanni Shrestha and Prabuddha Raj Bastola, and alumnus Romas Man Tamrakar ‘15 share how Caldwell has helped them grow professionally and personally. Tamrakar, who earned a bachelor’s in accounting at Caldwell, talks about how the university prepared him for his work as an audit manager at the accounting firm Deloitte & Touche. In addition to his accounting work he has been involved in activities such as mentoring, recruiting, and community service. He described how he used the small university atmosphere as an advantage in helping him develop leadership skills. He recalled how when he was an undergraduate, the Nepalese students launched a campus fundraising campaign after an earthquake ravaged their country. Shrestha, a psychology major with minors in biology and chemistry, and Bastola, an accounting and computer information systems major, talk about the individualized attention they receive from faculty and staff, and the opportunities they have to learn through research, mentoring, and networking with faculty and alumni. They described the difficulties as students far from home during the pandemic, how they have used the opportunity to grow, and why after the pandemic is over, their homeland would be a wonderful place for listeners to visit.
Prabuddha Raj Bastola(Left), Romas Man Tamrakar ’15(Middle),Prasanni Shrestha (Right)
Campus Ministry Looks to the Signs of the Times to Help Students Encounter God
Caldwell, N.J., January 25, 2021 – Colleen O’Brien, director of campus ministry at Caldwell University, joins us to talk about the ways her office creates space for students to encounter God through service, prayer and social justice activities. All of the programming is structured around the Catholic Dominican pillars of prayer, study, community and service. Each year they take part in immersion trips to Belize and Philadelphia to serve the poor; during the pandemic they are focusing on local community service during “Service Saturdays.”
Campus Ministry has been innovative in bringing students together while being socially distant providing virtual faith sharing opportunities, holding a socially distant in-person retreat and launching a CU Faith Fridays video series. O’Brien talks about her work in planning trips with students to New York to reach out to those on the margins through the Midnight Run, overseeing the new chapel on campus and the liturgies (including livestreaming of Mass on Sunday nights), serving on the university Anti-Racism series lecture committee and coordinating the donations and distribution for the campus food pantry during the pandemic.
Making and Teaching Music During a Pandemic
Let’s make music! During a pandemic! That’s not easy but with innovation, ingenuity, and hard work, amazing things can happen. At Caldwell University, Music Department faculty members Laura Greenwald and Rebecca Vega along with student Amanda DeForne, music education major, talk about the ways they have been adjusting in playing music and teaching music during COVID-19. The chorale is singing outside with masks; the wind ensemble is playing with masks on; the professors are teaching more about the historical aspects of the music and socially distanced performances are being held in innovative ways. Also discussed are the ways music is a healing and unifying force in a time of isolation and how the arts are integral to social-emotional development. The guests share how they are growing and stretching including learning how to use the technology to enhance music education.
2020 Commencement Speakers Celebrate Their Caldwell Educations
Marisa Juliano and Lamar-Shea Chang share their experiences as the Class of 2020 Commencement speakers at graduation which took place Sept. 20 in three separate ceremonies after being postponed from May due to COVID-19. They talk about the ways Caldwell prepared them for their futures. Juliano, who received a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in art therapy, spoke to graduate and doctoral students. She shares how she served as an art therapist working with seniors during the lockdown and how she is now working with the visually impaired. Chang is a graduate student in the MBA program who received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and Biology with a minor in chemistry with plans to pursue a career in medicine. They highlight the foundation they received from Caldwell including the Catholic Dominican heritage, which Chang says means to act out of love. Caldwell also encouraged a culture of service and provided professors and staff members who help students find their passions and develop them to achieve their dreams. Juliano and Chang talk about what they have been learning about life during the pandemic and how they are adapting and moving forward using the mission and values they received at Caldwell to do what they can to make the world a better place.
Black Catholic Women of Faith: Courageously Facing a World Rocked by a Pandemic and Racial Inequalities
On this episode of the podcast “Caldwell University Conversations” our guests share their experiences as Black Catholic women of faith living during a time when the world is rocked with a pandemic, racism, economic challenges, and job losses. Andrei St. Felix, director of the Educational Opportunity Fund program, and Dr. Valerie Lewis-Mosley, an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Theology and Philosophy, talk about calling their beloved Catholic Church to live up to all it can and should be in the face of racial inequalities and about encouraging young people to pursue truth and contribute to a just society. They discuss their prayer lives during these challenging times, overcoming fear and how being Dominican Associates enriches their lives.
“When I wake up in the morning the first thing I do is I put my knees on the floor…” –Andrei St. Felix
“I love these kids. They are talented; they’re smart; they are very inquisitive. What I try to bring to them in this time of crisis is how much they are valued—to teach them to know who they are. “- Andrei St. Felix
“The most disappointing aspect of being a young person is finding out that the truth has not been given to you.” – Dr. Valerie Lewis-Mosley
“The Letter of St. James says faith without action is a dead faith. I would like to say that a church without action with its faith is a dead church.” – Dr. Valerie Lewis-Mosley
STUDENT TEACHING DURING THE PANDEMIC
When the coronavirus pandemic hit, K through 12 educators had to do gymnastics becoming ingenious in their teaching strategies to reach their students in a virtual world. For university students who were doing their field work as student teachers, the process became a great exercise in flexibility as they planned out their distance learning classroom experiences. In this episode of “Caldwell University Conversations” we look at student teaching remotely including what worked, what didn’t and what can be used in the future to promote excellence in education.
Our guests are Molly Heller, who recently completed her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and social studies at Caldwell University. She is pursuing her master’s in curriculum and instruction at Caldwell; Bryan Szabo, who recently completed his Post-Baccalaureate Teaching Certification Program and obtained a Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing for grades K through 6 and Dr. Catherine Lundquist who teaches in the School of Education at Caldwell University. Dr. Lundquist is an award-winning elementary school teacherand she supervises university student teachers.
GRADUATES SAY CALDWELL ENCOURAGED THEM IN LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE
Students in the Class of 2020 will certainly have a story to tell future generations about their last semester and how they were resilient in making it to the finish line amidst the coronavirus pandemic. But COVID-19 will certainly not be the only aspect defining their university experiences. Our guests in this episode of “Caldwell University Conversations” certainly know that. Graduates Brooke McPherson, Christopher Lepore, and Pedro Liriano talk about what they have received from their Caldwell University educations, their advice for incoming students, and what they are learning through the pandemic. They share how they have grown in their leadership skills through all that Caldwell offered them, how they shared their gifts with others and how they are looking forward to using those gifts to make a difference in the world.
McPherson ‘20 received a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems and marketing with a minor in communication and media studies, Lepore ‘20 earned a bachelor’s in communication and media studies with minors in philosophy and business administration and Liriano, a December 2019 graduate, earned a bachelor’s in music education.
Doctoral program helps students explore best leadership practices
Great leaders help students succeed. That is why it is important that leaders in K through 12 schools and in higher education institutions are equipped with up to date theory and practice so they can help students achieve their fullest potential. Our guests talk about the doctoral program in Educational Leadership at Caldwell University and how students are prepared to strategically plan, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate circumstances with informed models of decision-making.
Dr. Joanne Jasmine, professor of education and co-coordinator of the doctoral program in educational leadership, Dr. Matthew Block, an alum of the doctoral program and superintendent of the Livingston Public Schools, and Susan Hayes, director of the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment at Caldwell and a student in the doctoral program, are the guests. They also discuss how students explore the most current research with a blend of best leadership practices from across the United States, the tracks of study that are available, how the program accommodates those who may be working full-time as current school leaders and have families, and ways in which their particular dissertation projects have benefitted their professional work.
Caldwell Students Launch Hurricane Relief Drive for the Bahamas
On this edition of Caldwell University Conversations, we talk with three students who have launched a campus hurricane relief drive in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas. Paiton Knowles from the Bahamas, Lamar-Shea Chang from Jamaica and Anamika Sharma Paudel from Nepal talk about their desire to galvanize the campus community to support the Abaco Assistance Fund, which will benefit education and help families restore their lives. They described how they know firsthand what it is like to live through natural disasters and how important it is to keep reaching out to those in need even after the media stops covering the story. They explain how they are holding fundraisers and collecting items and have seen overwhelming support from various aspects of the campus community including the Athletics Department, Paiton’s cross country team, the Residence Life community and the faculty and staff. The university’s Dominican pillar of service has inspired them to want to take that spirit with them when they graduate and pursue careers in business, medicine or health care.
Young musicians learn from Broadway and internationally recognized drummers at summer camp
In this episode of “Caldwell University Conversations,” we talk about the Caldwell University Summer Intensive Percussion Camp, which gives students ages 13 and up a weeklong experience of the percussion world. Joining us are: Alexander Bocchino, director of the percussion camp and a faculty member in the Department of Music at Caldwell University; Dena Tauriello, a musician, Broadway and pop/rock drummer and educator; Nick Bergamini, a high school student who participates in the camp and is training to be a camp counselor and Ashley Zafarino, a Caldwell University music education major who did her summer internship while working on the camp. The guests talk about the various experiences of the camp, which provides ensembles, clinics, masterclasses, a trip to New York City to take in a performance by professional percussionists and a student concert at the end of the week for friends and family.
Career planning and development for students and experienced alumni
With graduation ceremonies approaching, many are looking for their first opportunity to work in a field that is interesting and fulfilling. Our guests Christine Szeluga, assistant director of career planning and development at Caldwell University, and Linda Luciano, career coach, higher education professional and Caldwell University alumna, provide professional advice and insights. They discuss how to make the most of your career planning and development whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced alum. They provide advice on networking and keeping contacts, preparing the resume, using LinkedIn, writing the thank-you note and much more.
Caldwell University Discovers the Art and History of Vienna during Spring Break
A group of Caldwell University students discovered Austrian art and history during their study abroad program in Vienna, Austria. Our guests, Caldwell University students, Liam Kearney and Aida Osmeni, and the professors who led the course and spring break trip, Dr. Jennifer Noonan, professor of art history, and Benjamin Lammers, professor of history, share the richness of their experience. They explored the wonders of Austria including the Albertina Museum, the Schonbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Chapel. Dr. Noonan and Dr. Lammers describe the structure of the interdisciplinary course that covered Austrian art and history from the 15th to 20th centuries with major themes being the rise of the Habsburg Empire and the Austrian Baroque. Kearney particularly appreciated the side trip to Salzburg where they saw the beauty of the Alps and some of the sites from the classic movie, The Sound of Music. Osmeni shares how the experience gave her a deeper appreciation for art. The students discuss the benefits of the course beyond the academics including learning how to navigate and travel in a different country.
Caldwell Nursing Students Educating the Campus Community about Healthy Choices with “Generation Public Health”
In this segment of Caldwell University Conversations, we talk with three senior nursing students who are planning programming on campus for “Generation Public Health,” an initiative of the American Public Health Association. Akiel Morris, Maritza Pellegrini and Sarah Rossettini explain that through their clinical work they are educating the campus about social and economic factors that are determinants for health and why they have joined this initiative to help create the healthiest nation in one generation. They discuss why they want to empower and educate students, faculty and staff about their abilities to make healthy choices. The students share their experiences in Caldwell’s Nursing program as they have prepared for their professional lives. The events they will host are: “De-stress with Mindful Art Making” on March 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Student Center Gym and “Take the Pledge for Generation Health” from noon until 1 p.m. on April 3 in the Hall of Flags in the Student Center.
Business professor’s memories of son inspire her to improve education for children in India
Professor Monika Sywak, of the School of Business and CIS at Caldwell University, founded Pawel’s Children in memory of her son, Pawel. The non-profit organization provides support and makes education affordable for children at the Abhaneri School in Rajasthan, India. Sywak describes how the organization came into being after she and friends traveled to the impoverished area of India and happened to fall upon the school. Immediately Sywak felt a connection to the children and she was inspired to help improve education for the village so that the students could achieve their dreams. To date, she and the other volunteers have helped increase the number of bathrooms, classrooms, and buses. Other accomplishments have included establishing a high school, increasing the number of teachers and receiving accreditation. Sywak explains how this helps with the local economy and can have a ripple effect because students who become successful can come back to their village and give back. She shares how grateful she is to the other volunteers and what she believes can happen with the “power of one” person stepping out which then creates a team of volunteers.
Women and heart disease: prevention, risk factors, and symptoms
In the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women. February is American Heart Health Month. In this episode of “Caldwell University Conversations,” our guest is Dr. Kathleen Kelley, associate professor and assistant director of Caldwell University’s School of Nursing and Public Health. She shares information about women and heart health, preventing heart disease, risk factors and signs and symptoms.
Dr. Naturale discusses prevention, symptoms and treatment for diabetes
On this segment of Caldwell University Conversations, we focus on National Diabetes Awareness month. Dr. Donna Naturale, assistant professor, in Caldwell University’s School of Nursing and Public Health, is an adult nurse practitioner and a certified diabetes educator. She talks about prevention, signs and symptoms, the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, screening, prevalence in the United States and New Jersey and managing and living with diabetes. She also discusses how she is training the next generation of nurses to help patients who live with the condition.
Healthy screen time for children and teens
With the explosion of the development of digital devices, screen time for children has become a concern for many parents who want to decide how much, if any, time their children should spend with media and digital devices. Dr. Stephanie Sitnick, assistant professor in the School of Counseling and Psychology at Caldwell University, joins us to provide her advice and insight on healthy digital and media usage for children and teens. She reacts to the recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics “Children and Media – Tips for Parents.” Dr. Sitnick talks about age appropriate usage, the importance of watching with children, how parents model with their usage of devices, and the importance of play for a child’s development.
Tracing the steps of Saint Dominic de Guzman in France
Caldwell University is a Catholic Dominican institution founded by the Sisters of Saint Dominic of Caldwell and its roots date back to the time of St. Dominic de Guzman in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. Caldwell University President Nancy Blattner describes her experiences on a pilgrimage to France with presidents of other Dominican universities and colleges to trace Saints Dominic’s footsteps through historic places such as Fanjeaux and Prouille. She discusses St. Dominic’s life and what students and the campus community can learn from him today including how he respected the dignity of each and every person. Dr. Blattner shares her joy in studying the history, seeing the beauty and experiencing the Dominican charism with others from the Dominican family.
Science Students Intern with Professional Scientists
In this segment of Caldwell University Conversations, students Shreyoshi Hossain and Foujan Moghimi and Associate Professor in the Department of Natural Sciences, Dr. Agnes Berki talked about the value of summer internships with professional scientists. Hossain shared how she interned in the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Summer Undergraduate Research Program where she did research investigating the absorption of a compound that could be a cure for blindness, skin disorders, and seizures for newborns and people of different ages. Foujan Moghimi talked about her internship at the world-renowned teaching and biomedical hospital Johns Hopkins in Baltimore as part of the JH Bloomberg School of Public Health Diversity Summer Internship Program. She worked on a project titled “Evaluating Cytokines in an Acute Hepatitis E Infection”. They discussed how Caldwell prepared them for their internships and presentations and the plans in their department for the upcoming year.
Caldwell University Marching Band looks forward to 2018-19
Caldwell University’s new marching band had its inaugural year in 2017-18. The band performs at the home sprint football games, open houses, and other school events. Professor Rebecca Vega, director of the band, and student band members Adamarie Santiago, Ashley Zafarino, and Keith Kyewalabye reflect on their experiences including how the band brought school spirit to events, the friendships that were formed, and the commitments of being a member. Professor Vega describes the process of putting a band together and that Marching band is a one-credit course. They talk about their hopes for next year including how they are looking forward to drill expansion and a variety of music selections.
Senior convocation honorees reflect on their journeys at Caldwell
Caldwell University senior students who received awards at Honors Convocation reflect on their experiences during their college careers. Olivia Barnes, Dennis Brady, Michelle Eng, Stephen Han, Katlyn Houtz and Averi Zarbetski share their journeys at Caldwell including how they gained leadership skills, went on mission trips, learned about research and hard work, and discovered more about themselves and their gifts and talents.
Studying the Foundations of the Dominican Tradition in Rome
The Caldwell University spring break study abroad course, “Studying the Foundations of the Dominican Tradition in Rome,” is the topic of this edition of “Caldwell University Conversations.” Students Grace Santangelo and Enis Asani and Caldwell University President Nancy Blattner join us to talk about their experiences visiting Dominican and other ancient sites to probe the riches of the Catholic faith and the Dominican tradition. The students shared how they grew academically and spiritually taking in the religious and ancient art of the eternal city and how they forged bonds of friendship with their fellow travelers. Dr. Blattner shares her joy from working on the course with Sister Kathleen Tuite, O.P., vice president for student life, as they traveled and studied with the students exploring the lives of Saints Dominic, Catherine, Peter, Paul and others.
CU Sport Management and Business Study Abroad Trip to Italy
Students in Caldwell University’s School of Business and Computer Information Systems had the opportunity to travel to Italy to explore the field of sport management for a short-term study abroad excursion in January 2018. The students, along with their associate dean, join us on “Caldwell University Conversations” to talk about the trip that took them to Rome, Milan and Bologna. They share what they gained from hearing from professionals and visiting companies such as Nike, Ferrari Marketing, San Siro Stadium and Inter Milan. They also visited sites in Rome such as the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica. They talk about the benefits of learning how to navigate on their own, enjoying the culture and food, and forming friendships.
President Nancy Blattner on Catholic Higher Education in the Future
December 2017 – President Nancy Blattner joins us on Caldwell University Conversations to discuss the state of Catholic higher education today and the forum she attended with other Catholic college and university presidents hosted by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and Boston College Oct. 17-18.
Dr. Blattner explains how the meeting, “Bishops and Presidents in Dialogue: Sustaining Catholic Higher Education in the Future,” included discussion of topics such as collaborations between Catholic colleges and universities, the value and importance of bishops’ leadership, the state of K-12 Catholic education and its connection to Catholic higher education, and the foundation a student receives from attending a Catholic college or university.
Dr. Bennett shares new book “Practices of Love, Spiritual Disciplines for the Life of the World”
Dr. Kyle Bennett, assistant professor of philosophy at Caldwell University, has recently published a book “Practices of Love: Spiritual Disciplines for the Life of the World” by Brazos Press. Bennett shares how these spiritual disciplines — that were derived from ancient monks — probed him to look more closely at how our everyday activities like eating, resting, talking and loving affect others. He examines how spiritual disciplines should not only deepen our “vertical” relationship with God, but should also affect our “horizontal” relationships with our family, friends, neighbors and all of creation. He challenges readers to look at how their actions within their ordinary circumstances affect the common good. Dr. Bennett is also program director of The Spirituality and Leadership Institute, a summer program for high school students at Caldwell University, which is made possible by a Lilly grant.
Study abroad “The History of Catholicism in Spain”
This past June a group of Caldwell students had the opportunity to study abroad in Spain for a course on “The History of Catholicism in Spain”. The students lived with host families, immersed themselves in the culture and language, and studied the interaction of Catholics with Muslims and Jews. The tour and course was led by Dr. Rosa Sanchez, assistant professor of Spanish, language, literature and culture, at Caldwell University. Dr. Sanchez joins us on the podcast along with students Daniela Sirio and Timothy Barr to talk about their experiences on this trip.
Biology students selected for Premedical Urban Leaders Program
Caldwell University biology students Shanice Edwards and Roksana Korbi join us on “Caldwell University Conversations” to discuss their experiences at the Premedical Urban Leaders Summer Enrichment Program at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University. They explain how the experience focused on urban health and provided academic, clinical, research and service learning opportunities. Korbi and Edwards discuss how PULSE has helped them with the steps they need to take to apply to and plan for medical school.
In this edition of Caldwell University Conversations, we look at the research opportunities Caldwell provides for students in the Natural Sciences Department. The guests are Dr. Agnes Berki, an associate professor in the Science Department, Jessica Binkiewicz, a post-baccalaureate student and alumna who has been a New Jersey Governor’s Stem scholar, and Stephen Han, a biology student. They discuss the recent Research and Creative Arts day at Caldwell highlighting student, faculty and staff projects. Binkiewicz shares her experiences as a STEM scholar including leading high school students in research and visiting the New Jersey Statehouse. Hann discusses his research on microorganisms on smart phones and his experiences presenting at symposiums.
Science Students Engaging in Research
2017 Undergraduate Ceremony Commencement Speaker Shyam Sharma
Graduating senior Shyam Sharma is our guest on Caldwell University Conversations. He has been selected as the commencement speaker for the 2017 undergraduate ceremony. He talks about his experiences in the Business Division and the doors that have been opened for him including having the opportunity to intern at Tilcon NY. Sharma talks about how his professors and courses prepared him for the work world, his experiences as president of the student government association and how to get involved as a commuter.
Graduate ceremony commencement speaker — Matthew Block
Matthew J. Block, director of human resources for Summit Public Schools, has been selected to give the graduate ceremony commencement speech at Caldwell University’s 75th annual commencement on May 21st. Block will receive his doctorate in educational leadership. He joins us to talk about his experiences in Caldwell’s educational leadership doctoral program and his dissertation focusing on teacher mentoring.
Mainstream applications of applied behavior analysis: teaching car seat installation and safety skills
Caldwell University is a leader in training in applied behavior analysis, a highly effective scientific approach to teaching children on the autism spectrum. Associate Professor of Applied Behavior Analysis Jason Vladescu, Ph.D. and ABA doctoral student Antonia Giannakakos join us on Caldwell University Conversations. They discuss mainstream applications of applied behavior analysis such as how it can be used to train people in installing child car seats and in teaching kids safety skills.
Community service mission trip to Belize
Students Marisa Juliano and Sean Puzzo and Director of Advisement Henrietta Genfi are guests on Caldwell University Conversations to share their experience serving on a mission trip to an impoverished area of Belize during winter break. They talked about their practical work in repainting a school, how they forged friendships and came away from the experience with important life lessons including a greater realization that happiness lies in human connections not in material things.
College Planning Advice for Families
On this episode of Caldwell University Conversations, our guests explain the college planning process including the search, financial aid, loans, deadlines and visits to campus. Planning for college is an exciting time–that is why knowing the right steps to take makes the process that much smoother for parents and prospective students. Joseph Posillico, vice president for enrollment and communications at Caldwell, and Stephen Quinn, assistant vice president for admissions, provide information on how to navigate through the process and the resources the Caldwell University staff provides to help families during this important period.
New media and technology engaging prospective and current students.
On this episode of Caldwell University Conversations our guests discuss how Caldwell is using innovative media tools and technology for student engagement and recruitment. Joseph Posillico, vice president for enrollment and communications, Anthony Yang, executive director of IT operations and digital communications, and Steve Quinn, assistant vice president for admissions talk about the role new digital media is playing in increasing enrollment, in marketing, in enhancing campus life and introducing students around the globe to Caldwell University.
The International Student Experience at CU
In this episode of Caldwell University Conversations our guests discuss the international student experience at Caldwell University. Maulin Joshi, director of international student services, Jan Marco Jiras, director of undergraduate admissions and an international recruiter and Katherine Llangari, a Caldwell University student from Ecuador talk about the ways international students enrich Caldwell University’s campus life. They describe the supports and processes that are in place to help prospective and current international students, the different cultural celebrations held on campus and student-initiated humanitarian relief efforts to help those affected by earthquakes in Ecuador and Nepal.
CALDWELL OFFERS A NEW BACHELOR OF ARTS IN APPLIED LANGUAGE
Caldwell University is offering a new Bachelor of Arts in Applied Language. Professor Domenic Maffei, chair of the Modern Languages Department and the History and Political Science Department, joins us on Caldwell University Conversations to explain the Applied Language program and how it will prepare students for work in a number of areas including government, education, information and library services, nonprofits, business, public relations, international business, travel and tourism, communications, advocacy, and social services.
The Impact of Catholic Sisters on the History of the United States
Dr. Marie Mullaney, historian and professor of history at Caldwell University, shares her research on the numerous contributions religious sisters have made to the growth of the United States. She discusses how Catholic sisters were pioneers even before the founding of the U.S. living out the mission of service to help the sick and those most in need. She shares the work they have done in starting hospitals, women’s colleges, and schools and the need to document that history. Mullaney talks about the national oral history project SisterStory, which Caldwell University students took part in this past year with the Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell.
Caldwell University Science Students Engage in Research
Caldwell University biology student Eva Suchar and Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Agnes Berki discuss the benefits of research for science students. Suchar explains how she worked with Dr. Berki, her advisor, on research on the “Optimization of Fluoridation using Streptococcus sanguinis and Streptococcus salivarius for Better Oral Hygiene”. A highlight was being able to present the project at the Independent College Fund of New Jersey’s Undergraduate Research Symposium at the Liberty Science Center in the spring. Dr. Berki talks about the department’s plans for research for students in 2016-17.
Graduate and undergraduate commencement speakers reflect on their Caldwell experiences
The student commencement speakers for 2016, Sarah Schiffelbein and Anabela Santos, share their experiences in academics and activities at Caldwell, the support they have received from their professors, their career plans, and why they would advise prospective students to choose Caldwell.
Science Students Benefit from Partnership with Johns Hopkins University
During the summer of 2015 Science student Deborah Balthazar had the opportunity to intern at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She joins us to talk about her experience in the JH Bloomberg School of Public
Health Diversity Summer internship program. Also joining us is Pamela Marte, a science student, who has been accepted into the program for summer 2016. They discussed how the program gives students the chance to learn different aspects of public health and medicine and meet other students from around the country. Deborah shares how she was assigned to the Johns Hopkins Center for Livable Future where she researched food recovery and food waste. She talks about having the wonderful opportunity to meet with alumna Dr. Barbara Detrick, a professor of pathology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, who set up the partnership between Caldwell and Johns Hopkins.
April 2016
SisterStory Oral History Project
The stories of Catholic sisters are an integral part of the history of the United States. Caldwell University is taking part in the national SisterStory campaign aimed at raising awareness about Catholic sisters. Caldwell was founded by the Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell.
Dr. Nancy Becker, assistant to the president for special projects, is leading Caldwell’s SisterStory Oral history project. Sophomore Averi Zarbetski has been taking part in the SisterStory project for her academic studies. Dr. Becker and Zarbetski talk about the benefits of the project for students and sisters and the importance of the endeavor especially during a year when the worldwide Order of Preachers is celebrating its 800th anniversary.
March 2016