As I was walking Twinkles and Ernest this morning—at 7:30 a.m., not 5:30 a.m.—I thought about gratitude. I’m thankful for the opportunity to teach this semester; grateful to our staff who organized a wonderful Homecoming—the first in three years where the number of alumni nearly equaled our student population; thanks to all the donors who made the Sunday drag brunch so successful, and thank you to all of our students and faculty who are the heart of our community. I was also appreciative of the SING! students who had me winning the lightsaber fight and for their participation and enthusiasm.
As our semester winds down and classwork stress grows, students remember the importance of keeping regular hours of sleep and maintaining a healthy diet. Speaking of food, hats off to our student food committee that meets weekly with Aramark—the first choice of our students for our food vendor last year—and, fingers crossed, to the new furniture for the Commons we anticipate arriving during the winter break. I look forward to meeting, greeting, and eating with students as I continue dining in the Commons.
Regarding wellness, as I get my miles in walking across campus, I like to listen to podcasts, Jill Lepore, a Harvard American historian and journalist, is a favorite, and to music. Currently at the top of my playlist are Hans Zimmer’s “Cornfield Chase” and “Time,” Björk’s “It’s Oh So Quiet,” and (throwback!) Gordon Lightfoot’s “If you could read my mind.”
Around the immediate bend!
Not to be missed, the theater department’s production of The Witch, billed as a dark comedy, opens this Friday.
There is also an upcoming overnight rock-climbing trip Friday–Saturday, November 18–19 to Reimers Ranch, one of the most beautiful spots in Central Texas. Space is limited, and the deadline to register is November 15.
Pickleball anyone? Well, now you have your opportunity. Southwestern’s inaugural intramural pickleball contest begins November 28, be sure to register by November 21 on IMLeagues.com. Men’s, Women’s, and CoRec divisions are available.
Faculty shout out!
Assistant Professor of Biology Jennie DeMarco has received a 1-year, $40,000 grant from the Colorado Bureau of Land Management. She has also received preliminary notification of a 3-year, $503,000 National Science Foundation grant in support of her ongoing research. This research will increase participation from underrepresented groups in biology and provide opportunities for enhancing undergraduate participation in research experiences through three pathways: direct participation in research through summer undergraduate research experience, course-based undergraduate research experience, and research training as a paid research assistant.
Future shout-out!
Seniors, circle February 15 as that will be our first Mardi Gras: Krewe du Piracy ’23 extravaganza organized by a committee with lots of student advisors.
Enjoy the rest of the week!
