Campus Currents

February 7, 2022

Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer

What Can Indigenous Knowledge Teach Us about Climate Justice and Sustainability?

February 9, 2022, 4:30 p.m., Hybrid - McCarthy Center Forum and available virtually.
Register for Virtual Link Here

How can teachers and students integrate indigenous knowledge into our classrooms and communities as we journey towards climate justice? Join us to discuss this topic with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer, a mother, scientist, decorated professor, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.

Campus Sustainability Events and Opportunities

To join the campus sustainability email list for event reminders and Zoom links for the monthly meetings, visit: https://forms.office.com/r/fWeT8CVHdw

As always, please reach out to me at mmayer1@framinghma.edu if you have any ideas for collaboration, concerns, questions, etc.

Megan (Lehnerd) Mayer, PhD
Assistant Professor
Campus Sustainability Coordinator

Upcoming Events/Opportunities:

What Can Indigenous Knowledge Teach Us about Climate Justice and Sustainability? Arts & Ideas event with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer
February 9, 2022, 4:30 p.m.
Hybrid - McCarthy Center Forum and available virtually. Register for Virtual Link Here
*We have some sustainability-focused raffle prizes to give away to students who attend in person!

How can teachers and students integrate indigenous knowledge into our classrooms and communities as we journey towards climate justice? Join us to discuss this topic with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer, a mother, scientist, decorated professor, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.

• Campus Sustainability & Climate Justice Conversations
Last Monday of the month, Starting in February (2/28, 3/28, & 4/25), 1:30pm on Zoom.
All members of the FSU community are welcome to join! Sign up using the link in the first paragraph to be added to the dedicated campus sustainability email list and to receive the Zoom link for the meetings.

• Sustainability Inventory
It’s time again to update the inventory of sustainability work being done by our faculty and staff in their classes, scholarship, and community engagement. Please take a few minutes to fill out this brief survey by Friday, February 25th if you believe that your teaching, scholarship, and/or community engagement is linked in any way to social, economic, or environmental sustainability: https://framingham.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9T42RYTdEOeboZo

8 Billion Angels Film Screening and Filmmaker Talk, Hosted by the Green Initiative Club and the Framingham High School Environmental Club
Wednesday, March 23rd, 4:30pm, on campus at FSU, location TBD

Today, humanity’s demand for resources vastly exceeds nature’s ability to supply them…8 Billion Angels tells the truth about the conflict between the size of our global population and the sustainability of our planet. It dispels the misconception that technology can save us, that reducing consumption is the answer, and that the blame lies solely in the developing world.

• Global Teach-In on Climate Justice
March 30, 2022, in your classroom
12:30 – 1:30 pm Discussion for FSU Employees hosted on Zoom by Katelyn Christopher and Megan Mayer

Framingham State University is joining Bard College and hundreds of other colleges, universities, and community groups for the Worldwide Teach-in on Climate. We will focus our teach-in on Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer’s book Braiding Sweetgrass. Book themes include many different topics – indigenous ways of knowing, environmentalism, ethics, consumerism, and story-telling – and the text is a great complement to courses taught in all departments at FSU. We have free access to the book through the Whittemore Library.

The goal of the teach-in is to have as many faculty as possible focusing their class lessons on climate justice on March 30, 2022. If you don’t have class on March 30th, we encourage you to choose another day that week to discuss climate justice and indigenous perspectives in relationship to your course topic.

To get involved and prepare for the teach-in, we encourage you to engage in the following:
• Attend Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer’s event on Feb. 9th at 4:30pm (registration link above)
• Sign up here to join the Teach-In to receive more info, resources, and the link to our teach-in planning meeting on Monday, March 7th from 4:30 – 5:30pm on Zoom. It will be recorded if you are unable to attend.

Megan Mayer and Katelyn Christopher also will be hosting a Braiding Sweetgrass discussion group for FSU staff, librarians, and others not in classrooms on March 30, 2022 at 12:30 – 1:30pm. This will be an opportunity to engage with your colleagues to discuss the book, whether you were able to attend the previous semester’s discussion group or not. We will provide some book excerpts to review before the event to help you prepare for the discussion. FSU Employees can sign up for the discussion here.

• Earth Day Event
Thursday, April 22nd, more details to come!

A Celebration of the Life and Legacy of Danforth Founder Paul Marks

Framingham State University’s Danforth Art Museum is holding a special event on Saturday, Feb. 12 to celebrate the life and legacy of founder Paul Marks, who passed away on April 20, 2020.

A variety of speakers will highlight the indelible and lasting contributions Marks made to the arts and community life of MetroWest and to his friends and family, including most notably, through his founding 47 years ago of the Danforth Art Museum and School.

Speakers will include: Dr. F. Javier Cevallos, President, Framingham State University, Jessica Roscio, Director and Curator, Danforth Museum of Art, his daughters Robbin and Tracey Marks, his grandson, Sam Zabronsky, his cousin, Jerry Hirschberg, and his friend, Peter Mitchell.

The Danforth Art Museum and School was established in 1975, bringing to fruition the dream of Paul Marks, a Framingham businessman, to establish an art museum in MetroWest, which had few such assets at that time. Marks brought together and drove the efforts of a committed group of community members to establish art exhibitions, museum programs, and studio art classes. Essential to the Danforth’s founding was a unique collaboration with Framingham State College, led by Justin McCarthy, President of Framingham State College. This partnership continued over the years, culminating in 2018 with a merger with Framingham State University to become the Danforth Art Museum at Framingham State University and the Danforth Art School at Framingham State University.

Though Marks created a lasting legacy with the creation of the museum, he also had many other accomplishments as a successful businessman, Chancellor of Higher Education for the state of Massachusetts, as a published scholar and lecturer on the artist James McNeal Whistler, and as president of Montserrat College of Art. He was also a member of Framingham’s town meeting and served as a trustee and President of the University of Massachusetts Foundation. He received honorary doctorates from Framingham State University and the University of Massachusetts for his contributions to higher education and community life in Framingham and in the state. Despite his notable accomplishments, he was always devoted to his family and known for being humble and witty.

The event will be held at the Danforth Museum of Art, 14 Vernon Street, Framingham, MA on February 12, 2022 from 5-7 p.m. Reporters are welcome; vaccination cards will be checked at the door to protect the health of attendees.

Community Stargazing and Webb Update

Monday, February 7, 2022
Stop by any time between 5:30PM - 7:30PM
Outside in O’Connor Lot by Maynard Road
Cloud Date: Tuesday, February 8 from 5:30PM - 7:30PM

Participants of all ages are invited to join us for stargazing and a James Webb Space Telescope update!

Outside in the O’Connor Parking Lot, use telescopes to observe the Moon and Jupiter while McAuliffe Center staff are available to answer your questions about telescopes and our Universe. Warm up inside the Center and get updated on James Webb Space Telescope’s journey through space following its successful launch and deployment!

The 1619 Project Book Discussion

Please join Kathleen Barnard, our new Student Engagement Coordinator, and the Whittemore Library for a series of discussions on The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story, created by Nikole Hannah-Jones and The New York Times Magazine. This groundbreaking work brings together 19 essays and 36 poems and short fiction pieces to help readers reframe and re-examine American history and what it means to be a Black American.

The Library has four print copies of the book and an ebook. You can check out the books here at the library, check out the book at your public library, or purchase the book separately. You do not have to read the book to participate in the discussions; there is plenty of additional content available at the library’s 1619 research guide.

Format of the Discussions and Zoom links

Three discussion sessions are scheduled on Monday and Wednesday afternoons (1:30-2:30) in February:

• Monday February 14 Zoom Meeting - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82830380673
• Wednesday February 23 Zoom Meeting - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82074831066
• Monday February 28 Zoom meeting - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87342470279

Each of the three discussion sessions will focus on a particular idea of the book, as opposed to specific essays or works. This allows for more people to participate in the discussion, regardless of whether or not they have read the whole book.

Annual Juried Student Exhibition

Annual Juried Student Exhibition Opening Reception

January 31 - February 23, 2022

Reception: POSTPONED TO February 15th, 4:30-6:30pm

Each year Mazmanian Gallery presents a juried exhibition of artwork made by students from across the Framingham State University campus. Kickoff the Spring Semester by checking out the great work of our art students!

Drinks at the Danforth: Glass Houses

Friday, Feb. 18, 6 to 8 p.m.

The Danforth invites you to spend a creative evening with us meeting new friends while enjoying a unique cocktail (or mocktail). Sally Brecher’s Glass Houses, currently on view at the Danforth, provides the inspiration for this pairing of fun art making and cool, refreshing beverages. Using a prepared cyanotype print, you will add creative details to construct your own interpretation of a ‘Glass House’, leaving with a unique and finished piece of artwork. No experience necessary, all materials are provided. Complimentary assortment of cheese, crackers, meat and fruit will be served, generously provided by Wegmans. Cash bar available to those over 21.

Attendees at the Member level are invited to join artist Sally Brecher at 5:15pm to learn about her inspiration and her process for creating her series Glass Houses!

Admission is $25 for non-members, $15 for members. Proof of vaccination is required and masks must be worn when not eating or drinking.

Advance registration is required: danforth.framingham.edu

Graduate Assistantship Opportunity

Attention FSU students seeking a master’s degree, graduate assistantship positions are now posted for the academic year 2022-2023. Please check the Graduate Studies website for more information.
https://www.framingham.edu/academics/graduate-studies/graduate-assistanship-program/graduate-assistantships

Spanish Language Table

An informal meeting with Spanish faculty, majors, and minors to practice Spanish and make connections. Special guests on assigned dates. Meetings at the Dining Commons, 5:30-630pm.
Contact Professor Everton Vargas da Costa for more information: evargasdacosta@framingham.edu
See schedule below:

February 8
February 22 (with Prof Patricia Sanchez-Connally - Sociology)
March 8
March 22 (with Prof Mirari Elcoro - Psychology)
April 12
April 26 (Special Guest TBD)

Weekly Meditation

Spring 2022

Weekly on Mondays (whenever classes are in session)
12:30 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Remotely via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEvfuyorD0tH9x-3V3ENZo-igRslrAKC6gH

Questions or Comments?
Email Katelyn Christopher: kchristopher@framingham.edu

Students, Staff, & Faculty: All are welcome

Career Services Events

Wednesday Employer Showcases

Employers showcase their organizations, in person, most Wednesdays in the McCarthy Center lobby. Their goal is to network with and recruit students for full-time jobs or internships. Students can stop by their table to learn more.

There are two time slots: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and 12 Noon to 1:30 p.m., featuring up to four different employers:

2/8 (Tuesday) Noon - 1:30 PM Middlesex Savings Bank
2/ 9 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Teach Western Mass
2/9 Noon – 1:30 PM Dave & Busters
2/15 (Tuesday) Noon -1:30 PM Emerson Hospital
2/23 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Granite Telecommunications
2/23 Noon - 1:30 PM Talbots
3/9 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Uncommon Schools
3/9 Noon - 1:30 PM Barton Associates
3/23 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Brandon Residential Treatment Center
3/23 Noon - 1:30 PM ScribeAmerica

Suitable Solutions Career Professionalism Program
Ongoing—Spring 2022 Semester
The Suitable Solutions Career Professionalism Program is a multi-part professional career development series designed to prepare students for the internship & job search and the interview process. Students are educated about career professionalism, soft skills, social awareness, professional dress, and networking techniques to enhance their career opportunities. Upon completion of the series students will be awarded a Macy’s Gift card to purchase a professional outfit ($100 limit). This initiative will benefit ALL students for all majors. Learn the professional skills that employers want.

The Washington Center Information Session
Wed., February 9, 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. MC Alumni Room & 4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., MC 1839 Room
Can you imagine yourself spending a semester in Washington D.C.? Jumpstart your transition from the classroom to the workplace. There are internships for all majors. Come to this Information Session and learn more.

Spring Job and Internship Fair
Thursday, March 31, 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., MC Forum
Come to this great in-person networking event! Full-time and Internship positions available. Over 30 employers from the business, retail, insurance, non-profits, human services, banking, finance, STEM, health & wellness fields will be featured. Bring your resume. Dress professionally. Log into your HANDSHAKE account to view full list of organizations.

Suitable Solutions Career Advice Professionalism Panel Event
Tuesday, April 12, 12 noon– 1:30 p.m., MC Forum
OPEN TO ALL STUDENTS -As part of the Spring 2022 Suitable Solutions
Program, all students are invited to come to this event to help prepare for the world of professional work. Learn about the soft skills that employers say are imperative for emerging professionals. The goal of the Career Advice Professionalism Panel is to give the students a current and accurate picture of local labor market and hiring considerations across multiple industries.

Enterprise On-Campus Interview Day
Tuesday, April 12, 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., MC 412
Pre-Registration is required for all interviews through HANDSHAKE for:
Enterprise Rent-A-Car Management Trainee - Cape Cod area

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Management Trainee - Greater Worcester area

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Management Trainee - Greater Boston Area

For more information, call the CSER Office at 508-626-4625.


MERC Education Fair
Thursday, April 21, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at Boston University
Come to the largest education fair in New England. Over 120 school
systems and agencies attend! This annual recruiting event brings together teaching candidates and school systems from across the country for networking and job opportunities in public/private schools. The 2022 MERC Education Career Fair is FREE and open to candidates in education and related fields (teaching, administration, school counseling/psychology, occupational therapy, social work, speech-language, etc). Licensure is not required to participate.

Must register at: www.merccareerfair.com.

Upcoming events

Women's Lacrosse vs Fitchburg State

Saturday, March 30, 2024

12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Maple Street Field

Organized by: Athletics

Baseball vs Albertus Magnus

Monday, April 1, 2024

3:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Bowditch Field Athletic & Cultural Complex

Organized by: Athletics

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