INSIDE: IJf MessagefromthePresident 2 NewTrustees 2 A CL OLSLEEGL E Service-Learning 3-6 Campus Update 7-12 PeopleatLasell 13 Campaign for Bragdon 14 Annual Fund 15 Alumni News & Events 16-21 Lasell Village 22 THE NEWSLETTER OF LASELL COLLEGE Sports News 23 Class Notes Inside FALL 2003 SPECIAL ISSUE: SERVICE-LEARNING A Q&A WITH THE ACADEMIC VICE PRESIDENT OF LASELL TOM CHAPIN TO PERFORM Service-Learning an Emphasis on Student Engagement W JlVECENTLY, VICE PRESIDENT OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS JIM OSTRO DISCUSSED the determined emphasis on service-learning at the College, explaining what it means to the institution as well as to the students who participate in the process. Q: From your academic perspective, how do that the activities involved in service-learning you define service-learning? always have to be constructed according to these A Billboard Magazine calls Tom Chapin "one A: I define service-learning as the engagement objectives. key principle in service learning is ofthose natural-born entertainers who, in community projects and related reflective activ- reciprocity: the development of a mutually bene- with nothing more than guitar in hand, can ity that enhances both academic learning and ficial relationship between academic institution totally captivate." He will perform with the social awareness. The projects are typically, but and community. NewPhilharmonia Orchestra atReunion not solely, course-based projects that emphasize Q: Why do you believe it is such an important Weekend, Saturday, May 15, 2004. disdpline-specific or cross-disciplinary discovery. part of the educational experience for students Q: Is it different from the concept of community at Lasell? service, which is what students called their com- A: Three primary reasons: munity activism a few years back? If so, how? First, service-learning is a key strategy with- — A: Service-learning is inclusive of, but goes in our philosophy of connected learning to ORG. MA 51347 beyond, community service in that it is designed POSTAGE PAID NO. around the primary objectives of academically- See SERVICE-LEARNING NON-PROFIT BOSTON, based exploration and discovery. This means continued on page 5 U.S. PERMIT r >! THE ONLY AMERICAN WOMAN TO HAVE EVER WON AN OLYMPIC MARATHON GOLD MEDAL Marathoner Joan Benoit Samuelson Commencement Addresses 148th c Us 'SING THE MARATHON AS METAPHOR, WORLD RENOWNED RUNNERJOAN Benoit Samuelson, whom Runner's World Magazine called "the greatest American marathoner in history," spoke of pursuing one's goals with heart, and the need to take advantage ofunforeseen opportunities "to make them work for you." She conveyed that 1 message to the 168 graduates of Lasell College, at the 148th commencement ceremony on u Sunday, May 18, at 11 a.m. on Taylor Field. 1 I" 'Ifs not in what place you finish, ifs that you have the heart to finish," Benoit z Samuelson said to the audience of some V J 1800 family members, friends, and Lasell UUJ College faculty and staff who congregated under a giant tent on Taylor Field, on a per- ADVAN AVENUE fect May day, to celebrate the accomplish- eL ments of the class of 2003. — IrJ> College INSTITUTIONAL 02466-2716 Ciu3ycj "12S0a,y0i0n0gmtihlaetsriunnmniyngcamraereart—hohnass been an Lu COMMONWEALTH J extension of my education," the Bowdoin MA b OF <\L.ei College graduate talked about how she had bi Lasell k OFFICE 1844 NEWTON, :e See COMMENCEMENT continued on page 8 JoanBenoitSamuelsonaddressesthegraduatingclass. MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Service-Learning: Redefining Lasell's Historic Commitment to Engaged Education 1 HE FOCUS OF THIS EDITION OF LEAVES IS ON SERVICE-LEARNING: HOW IT IMPACTS THE lives of our students and those they serve as well as the subtle changes it has begun to create in the culture on campus. Service-learning, which incorporates an academic between traditional liberal arts majors and our By giving freely of their time and talent, when learning component into the long tradition of commitment to experiential learning. Now, more many carry demanding academic course loads student volunteering to help the less fortunate in than 40 percent of our students are engaged in and have to work to pay for their education, they society, has a special place in the life of Lasell. service projects, supported in the curriculum also change the climate on campus from one of What became a trend in higher education in the by an increasing number of faculty who not self-indulgence to one which also focuses on sixties and seventies was for Lasell merely a redef- only share their time and talents but also gain sharing the good fortune which brought them inition of a historic commitment to a more great insight into the root causes of poverty and to Lasell. engaged form of education. As an institution deprivation. Whenever I talk about service-learn- For those of you who care about this extraordi- embracing a practically-oriented liberal arts educa- ing, I am reminded of the almost apocryphal nary college and its commitment to changing tion, Lasell and its students long ago embraced a story of an academic dean responding to an lives, thank you for enabling our students to reach sense of social responsibility. In modern times, we enthusiastic mother who wants the same oppor- beyond their limited personal horizons. You do integrated it into our unique connected learning tunity of volunteerism for her son, a high school make a difference! educational philosophy, adapting volunteerism junior, as her daughter, a sophomore in college especially for those fields which, unlike Fashion or engaged in volunteerism. The purpose, the dean Business, had no ready-made internship compo- reminds the sincere mother, is not to preserve Sincerely, nent. Service-learning at Lasell is interdisciplinary, poverty as a palliative for the well-to-do (to cutting across various academic departments. As a assuage guilt and instill a sense of compassion) ^&L^ result, students get to know one another, and but to introduce policies and practices which have a greater understanding and respect for each diminish its magnification. other's work and academic disciplines. That is what Lasell students do: they make a Service-learning provides the perfect nexus difference and want to effect permanent change. ThomasE. deWitt,Ph.D. J. New Two Trustees Elected Recognition Given to A.T THE JUNE 2003 BOARD OFTRUSTEES MEETING, TWO NEW TRUSTEES Long Term Faculty were elected to the Lasell College Board. and Staff Susan Hass is currently Professor of Manage- and banking, she also instructed in national staff ment at Simmons College School of Management training programs. In 1975, she was the Business There are many faculty and staff members (SOM) in Boston, MA. At Simmons College, Ms. Manager and Controller for the Massachusetts who have served Lasell with dedication and dis- Hass has served on the undergraduate Faculty Horticultural Society in Boston. tinction. On August 27, the College held its first Council, the Council of Graduate Faculties, the She earned her undergraduate degree, summa annual Employee Recognition Lunch, where 81 Honorary Degrees Commit- cum laude, from Boston University School of individuals received resounding applause. tee, the Compensation Management. She holds an M.BA. with a con- "Over the years Lasell has attracted and Committee, and the college- centration in Marketing from the Harvard Uni- retained highly talented faculty and staff," said wide Strategic Planning versity Graduate School of Business. President Tom de Witt. "I believe it has been our Committee. She is presently Marisa L. Mascaro has 10 commitment to community, balanced with a chair of the School of years experience managing sense of entrepreneurship, that has made Lasell Management Curricu- complex energy projects in the a welcoming and energizing workplace." lum Committee. environmental, health and safety Deserving special recognition are four individ- Courses Ms. Hass fields. She is an environmental uals who have been with the College for more SOM has taught at the attorney and Director of Project than 30 years: Professor of Humanities Joseph include: Financial Development for SCS Energy, Aieta, Director of Support Services Jeanne Reporting and Analysis, LLC in Concord, MA, a position Johnsen '72, Postmaster John O'Connor, and SusanHass Managerial Accounting, she has held since 2000. At SCS, Buildings & Grounds member Paul White. »- Current Topics in she has responsibility for permit- Accounting, and Strategic Performance ting, acquisitions, compliance, Measures. She is currently conducting environmental policy develop- research in the area of enterprise-wide risk ment, and community relations. MarisaMascaro management and its relation to performance Prior to working at SCS, Ms. measurement. Her prior areas of research Mascaro was a Senior Associate and then manager relate to the quality of service in professional of Environmental Affairs for PG & E Generating service firms. Company in Boston, MA. Before joining the faculty at Simmons SOM, Ms. Mascaro received her B.A. degree from Ms. Hass was employed as an audit manager at Princeton University in 1989, and her J.D. in 1992 Coopers & Lybrand (Pricewaterhouse Coopers) in from Boston University School of Law. She is a Boston. While Ms. Hass's primary specializations resident of Wellesley, MA. ** SCoolmleegoefftohre1f5aocurlmtoyraendyesatrasffpmaeusmebefrorsawghroouhpavpehosteor.vedthe were in multinational and national manufacturing 2 LASELL LEAVES FALL 2003 SERVICE-LEARNING Lasell Bids an Appreciative Farewell to SERVICE-LEARNING AT LASELL Molly DeStafney, VISTA Volunteer "Through its service-learning compo- nent Lasell has greatly expanded its out- reach to the greater Boston community. Lasell has been extremely lucky to have macc americorps*vista Classes have done very interesting pro- jects, which in turn have both reinforced volunteer Molly DeStafneyworking on campus for the lasttwo years. In conjunctionwith and enhanced student learning of course the Center for Community-Based Learning, Mollyhas helped to expand and promote the material. For example, the Domestic Vio- lence class partnered with Th—e Second seivice-learning opportunities that are available to Lasell students. "The experience hasbeen Step on a variety of projects serving mutuallybeneficial," says Molly. "I havebeen incredibly energized by the students I've meals for families who have experienced worked with as I watch them grow to be leaders. They have taught me a lot about myself." domestic violence, cleaning out and refur- bishing a room for a family moving into Molly and Sharyn Lowenstein, director of the a transitional shelter, hosting a fundrais- Center for Community-Based Learning, began — ing event and in the process of partici- working at Lasell at the same time. "As we pating in these service ventures, the class worked together, a system seemed to emerge learned a great deal about this organiza- and evolved naturally," says Molly. "Sharyn tion, its clientele, and social justice issues. works with the faculty and develops service- "As a College, we pride ourselves on learning opportunities, and I concentrated on our connected learning mission, and student leadership and volunteerism. service-learning projects offer many "I spent a lot of my time getting to know the connected learning opportunities. I think student population. It didn't take me long to real- it is also the case that the faculty who ize that Lasell students are a very 'hands on' have utilized service-learning have been group. They want to get out there and do things, excited about the results they've been rather than just talk about it." MollyDeStafneyfeedsayoungfriendonthisMay's servicetriptoVirginia. able to achieve and the enthusiasm Molly's responsibilities included running the expressed by our students once they have America Reads program on campus (see story p. identify their service goals. been engaged." 6), a complex logistical effort that entailed arrang- "Being a resident of Case House involves a ing for and overseeing students who traveled to substantial amount of extra work and commit- — four different school sites: two in Newton, one in ment for the students. I have an immense admi- Sharyn Lowenstein Boston, and one in Waltham. ration for all of them." Director, She helmed the development of Case House Molly also interacted with community service Centerfor Community- as a residence hall exclusively reserved for stu- scholars, publicized service events, recruited ser- Based Learning dents committed to service. Residents agreed to vice leaders, and worked with Sharyn to expand do 50 hours of service per semester in addition the College's service program opportunities. to a common service project. Last spring, each of Given all her responsibilities, everyone on cam- the student residents took a one-credit service- pus was thrilled when Molly decided to apply to learning course that was designed to help them remain at Lasell for a second year. "I really wanted to see Case House get up and running," explains Molly. "I had spent March THRIVING SERVICE-LEARNING AT LASELL IS PART OF NATIONAL TREND and April getting the word out on campus and worked closely with the Admission Office and Campus Compact Survey Reveals Record Resident Life. We found 12 students who were excited and ready to take on this new experience Numbers of Students Involved in Service in the fall. By being able to stay, I was able to help the program take shape. A This fall, it will be Spence House that will be SURVEY RELEASEDJUNE 9TH BY CAMPUS COMPACT — THE NATIONAL the designated service-learning residence. "The program has grown to 18 students," says Sharyn. coalition of college and university presidents who are committed to fulfilling the civic "We have two men in the group, six returning — purposes of higher education found that students at American colleges and universities Case students, and some new sophomore and are engaging in community service in record numbers. Campus support of service efforts is junior faces. Molly deserves the credit for making the program such a growing success. As a VISTA also on the rise. Results show a steady increase in both campus-based service initiatives volunteer, she has helped enormously in develop- and the incorporation of service into the curriculum ("service-learning"). ing student leadership on campus." An average of 33% of students at the 504 "Campuses are increasingly providing the space Looking back on her two years at Lasell, responding schools were engaged in community and opportunity for students to act on their Molly is the first to admit that in spite of the service during 2002, compared with 28% in 2001. sense of social responsibility." exciting challenge she faces pursuing her master's More than half of the schools surveyed noted The significant expansion of service and degree at Bowling Green State University in Ohio an increase in student involvement in community service-learning on campus signals higher this fall, leaving the Lasell campus isn't easy. service; a fifth reported an increase of 10% education's commitment to educating active "Living in Plummer House, with its open door or more. and engaged citizens. policy, gave me a unique opportunity to get to "The fact that a third of college and university Out of 840 member colleges and universities know Lasell's students. We spent hours dis- students are engaged in community service that received the survey, 504 completed it: a cussing ideas and issues and I watched their zeal belies the common image of students as cynical response rate of 60%. More results, as well as and self-involved," said Elizabeth Hollander, results from past surveys, are available at See DESTAFNEY Executive Director of Campus Compact. http://www.compact.org. **- continued on page 5 FALL 2003 LASELL LEAVES SERVICE-LEARNING Second Annual Connected Learning Symposium Showcases Students' Work 1 WANT TO CONGRATULATE THE COMMUNITY, BUT ESPECIALLY STUDENTS and faculty, on a great week-long symposium of academic project presentations," said Vice President for Academic Affairs Jim Ostrow. "We had a wonderful variety of demonstra- tions, presentations, and thematic discussions, all of which represented the imagination and intelligence that inform Lasell students' connected learning work." TheWomenandWarexhibitswerewellthoughtout Daily, from April 22 through April 26, there hall, Case House, and presentations about indi- andinformative. was a rich assortment of events showcasing stu- vidual projects were made at a connected learn- dent presentations in every discipline, including ing session. stories was a profile of a student from Nigeria electronic portfolio demonstrations, internship "I guess you could call us guinea pigs," and a piece on election day in Guatemala. presentations, student fashion exhibits in laughed Aimee Wallace '05. "The experience defi- These two students and Jaclyn Wong '04 were Yamawaki, and two dazzling and much antici- nitely met my expectations. We all have a com- also in Assistant Professor Donatio's Understand- pated fashion shows that concluded the week. mon interest, are respectful of each other, and ing Mass Media class. Their final project was a One of the opening events was an assembly these bonds have tied us very closely to one PowerPoint presentation on bias. "Media affects entitled "The Need to Ban Antipersonnel Land- another." Aimee volunteered at a cat shelter, was how we think," said Jaclyn, "and it doesn't mines," which was co-sponsored by Professor an America Reads tutor, and participated in the always give both sides. It is interesting to read Tessa LeRoux's Introduction to Women's Studies Case House can drive that benefited Shelter Inc., articles and figure out what slant the editor is class and the Donahue Institute, and was part of a homeless shelter in Cambridge. taking." the class's bigger project, Women and War. Gina Mary D'Adamo '06, organized this year's Red Similarly, while taking Nature and Meaning of Coplon-Newfield, who has served as the Coordi- Cross Blood Drive as her service-learning project. History, Betsy Chominsky '03 discovered that his- nator of the U.S. Campaign to Ban Landmines "When I signed up for Case House my aim was torians have varied perspectives. While studying (USCBL), spoke about the organization's efforts to become engaged and more socially aware," she the English Reformation, it became apparent to to convince the U.S. government to join the 1997 said. "I've learned that I'm only one voice but I her that there were many different views on the Mine Ban Treaty. am able to make a difference." roles and stances of Elizabeth and Mary Queen of "Service has been my life," says len Scots. Boyd '06, "and Case House is why I Professor Steve Bloom's Media Literacy class came to Lasell." Last fall Jen attended visited the Girl Scouts and a third and fourth a conference in Holyoke, MA on how grade class to discover how the media and com- to organize and promote community mercials influence them. The young students were able to remember every ad they were service-related alternative breaks. "I learned a lot and being there made me shown and were happy to speak up and give much more aware of why people are their opinions. drawn to service." Building on every- The final events of the week were two glitzy thing she absorbed, Jen made all the fashion shows for which tickets were scarce. In a contacts for the College's May service palm tree filled de Witt Hall, the classes of '04, trip to Virginia (see story p. 6). '05 and '06 presented "Simply Hollywood" on As each of the Case House stu- Friday night. On Saturday, at "Putting on the dents reported on their projects, it Glitz," the Senior collections, representing a year was apparent that they cared deeply of the soon-to-be-graduates' hard work, were Mahaal-Shaoibi'04,aJournalismstudent,presentsherpaper,"LifeLines. about what they had done over the modeled. course of the year, and all were intent The thunderous applause the collections drew on expanding and promoting service- was well deserved and accolades go to every stu- Student presentations on Women and War fol- learning on campus. dent who participated in the week-long Connect- lowed, highlighting the many life-changing effects ed Learning Symposium. ** The tiered seats in Sargent of war and the different ways that women have were full when the Arts & been involved in or affected by war. De Witt Hall Sciences students made their was filled with materials and posters that the presentations. For Diane students had collected and made to illustrate Donatio's Journalism class, these sung and unsung heroines. the assignment was to design, "Many of the students conducted interviews write, and produce a 12-page with women whose lives had all been changed newspaper with a theme. by war, in one way or another," explains Profes- "Not only did the students sor LeRoux. 'Tor some, this was their first real have to do research and writ- confrontation with the realities and horrors of ing," explained Assistant Pro- war. They discovered dimensions of their grand- fessor Donatio, "they also had mothers or other relatives that they never knew. to learn layout and how to This may have been the first time that family balance the pages." i members had talked with them about their expe- $& riences. New ties were forged and the students heaMlathhaanadl-tSihtaloedibhie'r04pacpheorse c L."af&s had a new appreciation for the strength, determi- J0 "Life Lines," while the paper nation, and courage these women displayed." of Tamara Perceval '04 was SomeoftheCaseHousestudentswithposters:frontrowlefttoright:MaryD'Adamo stuFdoernttshelifviresdt itnimaecionmLmausenlilthyissteorrvyi,cethriessyiedaernc1e2 called "Culture." Among her T'0e6r,wTirlelsesgaerA'n0d5,oKna'y05li;nbaBociklreoauw'l0e6f,tCtoolrliegehtn:NLoeoenAannn'T0k5;acbzac'k05c,eMnateyrouAriamePeonWa'l0l4,acCeat'05. LASELL LEAVES FALL 2003 SERVICE-LEARNING ners in the educational and economic develop- Community-Based Learning places us among ment of the region. the leaders. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Q:In what ways would you say that service- Q:Why is it crucial for Lasell to maintain engage students in valuing their education as learning expands/enriches a student's education its service-learning component and how has more than what John Dewey calls something and outlook? Can you give examples? VISTA involvement impacted the College and "received and left behind." That is, by engaging A:Applying the skills and concepts learned in its programs? in projects that have lasting value, beyond just courses to projects that have positive community A:I see service-learning and its growth as earning a grade, students gain a sense of the impact deepens students' sense of the human essential to fulfilling our current strategic vision. value of subject matter extending beyond the value of education. Students learn about social The VISTA, especially as a stimulus for the devel- walls of the classroom. issues that have major significance in contempo- opment of student leadership, lies at the core of Second, Lasell College is committed to what I rary life, including poverty, health care, education our efforts. **- believe should be a core prin- and child-care, elderly ciple in higher education: that "Students, faculty, and staff work with assistance, and envi- of advancing habits of social ronmental manage- "Your world. responsibility and citizenship. community-based organizations in a ment. Students Service-learning is a natural discover possibilities Your chance to way of participating in such collaborative relationship defined by the for civic involvement advancement within the rooted to academic make better/' dual purpose of educational enrichment it context of our educational learning. Also, by philosophy. and community improvement." experiencing, first IfstheAmeriCorps*VISTArallyingcrythat Third, and this is tied in — hand, the College's hasluredthousandsofidealistic, committed with the second, obviously, JimOstrow commitment to com- youngpeople toanswerthecalltocommunity service-learning is an impor- VicePresidentStudentAffairs munity improvement, servicewiththepossibilityofreallymaking tant representation of the students' awareness of adifference. College's commitment to rendering higher educa- the importance of good citizenship in both one's tion relevant to local and global social problems. personal and professional life is enhanced. In1963,PresidentJohnF. Kennedyspokeofhis Service-learning is a means to create and sustain Q:How does Lasell rank among its competi- dreamtocreateadomesticvolunteerprogram lasting and meaningful bonds between our cam- tors in the service-learning arena? How is that modeled afterthenewlyestablishedPeace puses and surrounding communities. Students, ranking measured? And how important is it in Corps.AfterKennedy'sassassination,andasa faculty, and staff work with community-based terms of attracting students? fulfillmentofthatdream,PresidentLyndonB. organizations in a collaborative relationship A:I would say that our combination of high Johnson—signedtheEconomic OpportunityAct defined by the dual purpose of educational faculty involvement, a scholarship program a of1964 hisdeclarationofa"waronpoverty" enrichment and community improvement. In this service-house, and the existence of the Donahue inwhichVISTAwasformallycreated. way, the campus and community become part- Institute as a complement to the Center for as part of our connected learning philosophy," Lasell Students Run Health Awareness explains Vice President for Academic Affairs James Ostrow. "The majority of our service work Workshops at Newton's Brown Middle School supports the Newton community, and we were pleased to be able to contribute to the impressive program that the Brown Middle School put As SIXTH THROUGH EIGHTH-GRADERS POURED THROUGH THE DOORS OF together." the Brown Middle School in Newton on March 24th, there was more than the usual early There were smiles on both the Lasell and the Brown School students' faces, as the middle morning din. Teachers and students were looking forward to "Community Day" with its schoolers did jumping jacks, tried to estimate the full schedule of workshops and presentations concerning both physical and mental health. number of calories in a Snickers bar, and guessed As part of Lasell's commitment to community service and service-learning, 10 students which is the longest bone in the human body. At Brown School that day, it was apparent that from the College were participating by running sessions on nutrition, body image, fitness, service-learning is a two-way street. **• and anatomy. Carrying the skeleton, "Mr. Bones," a sit-and- reach box, bags full of healthy and not-so healthy DeSTAFNEY foods, and a 'Jeopardy" board with anatomy CONTINUED FROM PACE3 questions, the Lasell students headed to four classrooms on the second floor. Here they ran and commitment grow. Ifs clear that service- engaging and instructive interactive sessions learning is a connection that makes them with the middle schoolers during their morning happy at Lasell." class periods. Because of all Molly's efforts, a strong The 10 Lasell students were either members of groundwork has been laid for Elena Garcia, the Sports Medicine Club or were enrolled in the Lasell's new VISTA volunteer. We wish Molly ProfessorLisaHarrisandAssistantTrainerLisaDupuisare Allied Health Professional Interactions class. joinedbytheLasellstudentswhoranhealthsessionsatthe the best of luck in all her future endeavors "This is a seminar course with a connected learn- BrownMiddle School. and thank her for the many contributions she ing/service-learning component that develops has made to the College's service-learning professional communication skills and patient Training and Exercise Physiology majors and they program over the past two years. ** education," explains Lisa Harris, dean for the put together the four sessions." School of Allied Health and Sports Studies. "The "Lasell is dedicated to the successful incorpora- students who ran the workshops were Athletic tion of service to others in course-based projects FALL 2003 LASELL LEAVES SERVICE-LEARNING Students and Tutors in America Reads Make Lasting Connections Wh rHEN STUDENTS AT LASELL SIGNED UP FOR THE AMERICA READS Program this year, they had no idea how much the experience was going to affect their lives. "We knew that we were going to the schools to enhance the students' reading skills," says LeeAnn Tkacz '05, student coordinator at Newton's Mason Rice Elementary School, "but we didn't anticipate what close bonds would be forged with our tutees. By working with them each week, not only did we learn where they were coming from, but it also made us realize and recognize things about ourselves." America Reads is a well-loved Clinton literacy same skills. They work in the actu- LthienmdsaeLlyvoesnsduarnidnhgecrirtculteotriCmaes.sandraMaurissant'04areclearlyenjoying initiative. Colleges across the country run it as al classrooms of that grade, so that a federal work-study program and participating the teachers can see and keep in students are paid. Last year, Lasell had 45 stu- touch with the tutor," explains Jane. gram, the young students replied, "Making con- dent teachers and the program was run at four "We also want to have the parents get to know nections with what I read," "Just talking to my schools: Newton's Mason Rice Elementary and the Lasell students. When they come to pick up tutor," and "If I didn't notice when I got a word Williams Schools, Boston's Farragut School, and their children, they see them working together wrong, my tutor would tell me." The Lasell Waltham's McArthur School. and hopefully they will follow up at home." students said, "Being greeted when we arrived," Jane Taylor was the Mason Rice faculty coordi- At the end of the year, a farewell party was "How much I learned from the children," and nator for the program. "This was a pilot year with held at Mason Rice for all the America Reads "It feels good to help them with something that Lasell, so we were always changing and adding participants. Walking in together, arm and arm, they'll be using for the rest of their lives." things to the roadmap," Jane explains. "Our goal everyone gathered in a circle. The Lasell tutors Parents were appreciative too, saying, "It is to close the literacy gap and to change the lives gave each student a book that had been carefully enhanced my daughter's reading ability and she of these students by giving them the advantage of and individually selected, and the tutees present- had her homework done by the time she got reading. Without that skill they will not have the ed their tutors with banners that expressed home," and "My child was so engaged by the chance to proceed. their appreciation. program." All in all, everyone agreed with Jane "The Lasell tutors learn what the teachers are When Jane Taylor asked everyone present Taylor when she said, "My school thinks this program is the best thing since sliced bread!" **• working on, which enables them to reinforce the what had meant the most to them about the pro- May Nine Participate in Service Trip to Virginia R, .URAL RETREAT, VIRGINIA WAS THE DESTINATION FOR THIS YEAR'S MAY MACC alternative break service trip. Molly DeStafney, Lasell's 2003 AmeriCorps*VISTA volunteer, did considerable researchbeforehand, to make sure that the site that was selected for the trip would give the eight participating students a successful and meaningful experience. Her efforts did not go unrewarded. "When I phoned Jayne Hall, president of the to go llama trekking, and to visit a dairy farm. TheVirginiavolunteerstakeabreak.Lefttorightfront RfuoruanldRtehtereraitghHtisgtrooruipc,a"l SMoocliletyy,saIysk.n"eTwhitshaotrgIahnai-d a"rAelals,thseosltiufedeinntRsuwrealreReftrroematuwrabsanveorrysudibfufrebreannt rM'0oa3w,r:KyLaDits'eaAEYdlodanrmigod'g'0e066,';0D5bi,aaCcnaketrBToeowruwrlieblfetlaetugoe'rr0i3g',h0t5A:,lBeCxhriaosnotkPeeollWaDnyaclmoeay'n05, zation was founded in 1996 not for any historical from what they knew," says Molly. '05,andMollyDeStafney,VISTAvolunteer. purpose but as a means of bringing service vol- "This was my third May service trip," smiles unteers to the town. No one associated with the Diane. "People say that I'm always overly excited opening," recalls Diane. "It was quite something Society is paid and they all give an enormous about everything, but I've had three incredible to realize that grades one to 12 were housed in amount of time and heart to it." experiences. This year I was able to help two this small building and that everything the stu- On May 19th, the students and Molly climbed elderly women with their houses and gardens and dents had was second-hand. They read from dif- into two vans and drove 14 hours to Virginia. I find that you always get more than you give." ferent used textbooks and, if you were on the "We arrived really late," recalls Diane Bourbeau Before heading back to Massachusetts, the football team, you were lucky to have a mis- '03. 'Jayne met us and took us upstairs to our liv- group went up to Mountain Lake, VA. On their matched uniform. Sometimes players had to wear ing quarters. Rural Retreat volunteers cooked us way, they stopped in Wytheville, where they met two different sized cleats." three meals a day, and when it was time to go, it John Johnson, the executive director of the "Working with the Rural Retreat Historical was like leaving old friends." Wytheville Training Center and an expert in Society was a great partnership, and hopefully For four days, the Lasell group performed a African-American culture. He took the Lasell vol- Lasell will send another group there next year," variety of tasks in the area. Some cleaned elderly unteers through the town's school, the only one says Molly. "This year's group formed wonderful people's homes, others gardened, and some in the area for black children until the mid-1950's. connections with each other and with the people assisted in an elementary school for a day. When Throughout the tour, he described his experiences they met. To have the opportunity to travel to a not working, the volunteers had an opportunity of living through segregation. different part of the country to do service is an to try Appalachian tap dancing (called clogging), "Everything he said was amazing and eye- experience that is irreplaceable." »* LASELL LEAVES FALL 2003 CAMPUS vtfitt Second Annual College Town Meeting Held In what may be developing into a welcome lasell tradition, vice President for Academic Affairs Jim Ostrow presided over the second annual Lasell College Town Meeting on May 20th in de Witt Hall. Faculty and staff gathered to discuss the cur- rent strategic planning process and provide feedback on the goals and initiatives that have been formulated by the College's strategic planning committee. "The Town Meeting serves the dual purpose of The information gathered from these sheets is pulling all of us together as a real community, as currently being evaluated for incorporation into well as generating very important ideas for insti- the future plans of the College. tutional improvement," says Vice President "This spring's meeting produced pages of CounselingCenterDirectorJaniceFletcherandDirector oftheCenterforCommunity-BasedLearningSharyn Ostrow. ideas that will be very useful to those of us LowensteinwritedownsuggestionswhileJasonLively'04 Last year the town meeting was held as part of involved in the current strategic planning process, lookson. the self-accreditation process and it generated which is focused heavily around the concept of important suggestions. By coming together as a connected learning," says Vice President Ostrow. "We look forward to working through all unit, the entire community became involved in 'To give just one example, there were several of these ideas as we formulate strategies for thinking about the strengths and weaknesses of comments about ways linkages can be established enhancing the environment and reputation of the College and the future direction of Lasell. between academic affairs and student affairs in Lasell College." »* On the docket for this year were the College's the development of connected learning projects. five strategic "vision" goals. These goals are: 1) The external audience grasps what is meant by connected learning, and prospective students select to come to Lasell Faculty Go to Camp Lasell largely because of this philosophy. 2) Students, staff, and faculty understand When and operate in terms of the distinctive school is over and summer arrives, it's time for camp, as for characteristics of a connected learning philosophy. many others, this is true for Lasell's faculty, who gathered in Wolfe Hall during the week of 3) Students, with their academic advisors June 9 for the third annual Teaching with Technology Summer Camp (TTSC). Some 23 fac- and faculty, experience and conceptual- ulty members attended sessions as their schedules permitted. As faculty sat down in front ize their Lasell education from the begin- of their computers, prepared to begin, Director of Academic Computing Linda Bruenjes ning as a coherent whole. — 4) Students are immersed in an engaging joked, "It is not necessary to turn off your cell phones, and you are allowed to eat" and stimulating hving/learning College turning the usual professorial warning to underclassmen on its head. community environment. "Every year of TTSC has been different," says 5) The Lasell education fully integrates Linda. "The first year was experimental, as we preparation for both professional excel- weren't sure what the faculty wanted or needed, lence and good citizenship. but by the second year, we knew where to After a period of discussion, faculty and staff focus. This year, we are concentrating on the were asked to move through four Winslow class- new course management Web pages that the rooms to add comments to specific questions that Information Technology (IT) Department has were posted by the strategic area subcommittees. created to replace the previous integrated administrative and academic management system called Jenzabar." Chief of Information Technology Deborah Gelch and Professors Tim O'Brien and Richard CHEM 201 GOES NATIONAL Dodds worked long and hard to get a template in DirectorofAcademicComputingLindaBruenjeshelps facultymembersdesigntheircourseWebpages. place for the new course Web pages that will tie TheentireCHEM201 classparticipatedin together faculty, staff, and students through the als and ifs important to keep thinking of innova- anationallyadministered, semester-long, College's Intranet. Web pages have been devel- tive ways to engage students in the learning multi-partsurveydesignedtotesttheefficacyof oped for each course offered at Lasell and are process." onlinefeedbacktoolsused incollege accessible to anyone with a browser connected to Once Course Web Pages 101 had been com- courses.Thesurveyincludedan assessmentand the Internet both on- and off-campus. pleted, the faculty were ready to roll up their feedback oneachstudent'slearning "The Web pages contain general information sleeves and start individualizing their own course styleaswellasmidtermandfinal evaluations about each course that is culled from the Regis- pages. Soon they were adding hyperlinks, chang- regardingtheuse ofonlinehomew—ork.We trar's system," explains Linda. "Also included is a ing background colors, and inserting photos. arecurrentlyusingWEBASSIGN anonline Course Materials Folder, where faculty will store In an afternoon breakout session, courses relat- homeworksystemwhichisused aroundthe information such as syllabi, homework assign- ed to digital photography, presentation software, country.Thesurveyisbeingadministeredby ments, and readings. smart classrooms, and other new technologies IOTA Solutionsand ispartofagrantthatwas "We want the faculty to get excited about were available. "This was a great opportunity awarded tothemfromtheU.S.Department using technology in the classroom," continues to engage in dialogue, prepare for next semester, ofEducation. Linda. "Today's students are technologically liter- and have fun with fellow faculty members," ate and we can use the Web to help students take said Linda. **- responsibility for their education. They like visu- 7 FALL2003 LASELL LEAVES CAMPUS Counseling Center Responds Needs to Growing of Student Population When the doortothe counseling centeropens, a friendly sleigh bell jingles, welcoming students to an environment of caring and calm. "We want every member of the student body to feel that we are accessible to them and to know that we are here," explains Counseling Director Janice Fletcher. "The college years are exciting and challenging, but sometimes the experience can be accompanied by feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, and a sense of failed goals. It is often helpful for the students to sort things out by talking with a professional counselor. ClinicalCounselorMaraGreen(left)andCounselingDirectorJanice FletcherworktogetherattheCounselingCentertomeettheneedsofthe Collegecommunity. "I've been at Lasell for 10 years, watched the dialogue about alcohol awareness College change, and seen the Center's needs alive on campus." increase. As our student population exploded, I This past year, the Center's outreach efforts seen, and the reasons for the visits. was fortunate that President de Witt and Dean of touched on other topics, such as eating disor- "wWheo're constantly trying to get a better sense SatpupdreonvteAtfhfeaihrisriDniganofeaAussetcionndhapdertmhaenfeonrtesicgohutn-to Hdeerasl,thdiyveRresliattyi,oansnhdipasbuMsoe.ntAhprbilywthaesCdeenctlearr,eadnd o"fThey cthhaengsetusdoenmtuscahre,e"veJranyiyceeacr.onWtienukesn.ow that sGerleoernanads,taifnf2m0e0m1,beIrw.a"s able to make Mara tthieoinrsinwcalsasasefsulalncdaleevnednatrs,, ianncdluednidnignpgarwtiitchiptah-e b'a9ne0xc'isa,eutsmyeaanorfyetnmhoeorwmeeadbsiltceuadtteionotanststwetinhtdahtccodlealpmergeees.osuPitaorniennattnshdeof Lasell's Counseling Center team works excep- exam period "stress-free zone." these students are much more sophisticated and wbtlioeornfakolrliystwhoaentlelaostpnoegcoetnt,eh,eMraa.rnTadhewdhobieulslekmJaoafnniytcheoefisCterhneetsepro'nssi- ttihael"mItsfhesilnvagesws,athyaenyodfstrhheoaumtliidnndbcilenugddeossitnurgdeeltanoxtasttaiokofen,tc"haereesosfen- wspitrloulvdiecdnaetll.suAwsisttwhoimftiohnrdoetohcuetormwcphollaeltxegwdeeicaogcunanonsseoelrsicnaagrnecneconottmer-s, outreach programs, particularly the Alcohol explains Mara. Awareness and Healthy Relationships programs, ing to college, creating increased need for ser- Sixty percent of the students who use the vices. Also, there are many more students who as well as supporting Janice with the counseling. Center, no matter what their class year, are there work, adding enormously to their stress level." "The Counseling Center organized and ran more than 35 outreach programs last year, both in the because of stress and anxiety, relationship issues, Because of its small size, Lasell tries to wrap depression or family issues, according to Janice. itself around the whole student. The Center's staff classroom and the residence halls, which involved With the help of Information Technology Assis- works hard to provide valuable resources for 489 students or more. This couldn't have hap- tant Professor Richard Dodds, a database for the making student experiences positive. ** pened if it was just me," says Janice. Center is being created to enhance the Center's "We work to make students aware of the Cen- ability to track the number of visitors, the per- ter as soon as possible, but interestingly, most of centage of the entire campus population being the students find us on their own, or come at the recommendation of their friends. Our first job is to find out why the student is really at the Center. COMMENCEMENT We need to distinguish what the student needs CONTINUED FROM PAGE and what is right for them. I've had freshmen 1 come to me who were homesick and others who learned the most not from the races she won, but gold medal during the first women's Olympic said they thought they were homesick but who from the ones she lost. "The lesson is persever- marathon in the 1984 Games has, in her long were actually suffering from clinical anxiety." ance and guts," she maintained. "When it comes running career, demonstrated that she has both Confidentiality is key to the Center. "This is a to talent versus heart, heart always trumps tal- talent and heart. For her unique contribution to small campus and we are extremely mindful of ent," she assured her audience. the sport of running, the Board of Trustees of the need to maintain student confidentiality," 'Think back four short years ago. You were Lasell College awarded her an honorary doctor- says Mara, "and we uphold that pledge stringent- part of the freshman class. Or, as a marathon run- ate of humane letters. Lasell President Thomas ly. Although some students are very open about ner, lining up on the starting line in E. J. de Witt read the citation: — seeing us, others want no one to know. Clearly, Hopkinton, graduation or the "When it comes to talent 'Yours is the story—of which ifs their decision and we follow their lead. finish line on Hereford Street in legends are made a story of "Outreach makes students familiar with us and Boston—probably seemed like an versus heart, heart always grace, courage, determination, willing to come to the Center. I am able to intro- eternity away," Benoit Samuelson trumps talent." spirit, and pure athletic talent. duce myself to the small groups that comprise said. "You were excited and ner- — Internationally renowned as a the First Year Seminars, where there are usually vous and maybe a little apprehen- JoanBenoitSamuelson runner with Mercury-like speed, 15 to 17 students who have a comfortable rela- sive, wondering if you could really your accomplishments are as tionship with each other. I also see students in go the distance. Suddenly you were on your own. remarkable as they are historic. Your superb skill their residence halls when the Resident Advisors You had to make your own decisions and choic- as a runner, your discipline, your determination, or faculty members invite me to speak." es. Perhaps you overdid it and ran much faster athletic zeal, and generosity of spirit have In the fall and spring, as part of the National than you had originally intended. Perhaps you inspired new generations of athletes to follow in College Alcohol Awareness Program, the Center ran too slowly and found many other distractions your footsteps. For all you have brought to the cstounddeuncttsabvooultunftiavreymailncuotheosl tsocrceoemnipnlgest.e"tIhtetaqkueess-a tRheagtarsdeleemsesd—moyroeu ahtatdractthievecotuhraangaectaodesmtaircts....and, sepxoarmtpolferyuonunisnegt,,awnedstahleutceonysoius.teTnhtleyBgooaordd of tionnaire," Mara explains, "and ifs an opportuni- in my opinion, that is the spark that distinguishes Trustees of Lasell College therefore proudly con- ty for me to begin a conversation about the what real character is about." fers upon you the degree of Doctor of Humane hazards of drinking. Ifs one more way of pulling Joan Benoit Samuelson, who won the Boston Letters, honoris causa, with all the rights and the students in, and ifs important to keep a Marathon twice (1979, 1983) and captured the privileges pertaining thereto." *+ 8 LASELL LEAVES FALL 2003 CAMPUS Laura Miller '03 Collection Exhibited at Show Bridal Fashion >PRLNG IS A BUSY TIME OF YEAR FOR ALL COLLEGE SENIORS, BUT LAURA Miller seemed to be juggling more than most. She had her senior collection shown at the Lasell spring fashion show, "Putting on the Glitz," which included nine of her wedding dresses and two flower girl dresses; she got married at the end of May (she's now Laura Miller Schneider); and on Sunday, June 29, she held her own personal bridal wear fashion LauraMiller'03holdsoneoftheweddingdressesthatwas modeledatherMarinaBayshow. show at Summer House at Marina Bay, Quincy, MA. "I've been pretty exhausted," Laura sighed. "It worked with her over the summers and I bought photographer and Lasell faculty member) help was hard to focus on Marina Bay. The Lasell all the materials for my senior collection from and back me. He organized the venue, the mod- fashion show was a huge project. Not only had fabric stores that I'm familiar with in Philadel- els, the hair styling, the accessories, and the invi- all of us been working on our senior collections phia. Seeing what my mother does has made me tation. There was live music by the Ricky "King" for a year, but the show itself lasted for more hope to open my own small bridal boutique Russell Band, hot and cold hors d'oeuvres, and a than three hours. There were 14 of us, and we some day." cash bar." each had at least 10 dresses, so the runway was Talent runs strong in the Miller family and the Twenty-five of Laura's pieces were modeled. very busy and the house was packed." Marina Bay show displayed Laura's skill and cre- "It went wonderfully," smiles Laura. "Some After graduation, Laura was able to concen- ativity as well as her ability to work under pres- prospective brides were in the audience and trate on her wedding. "I made my own gown sure. Just a few days beforehand, she was still several came up to me after the show to discuss and also the six dresses for my bridesmaids. completing two of her designs as well as working the possibility of my making gowns for them. People couldn't believe that I had time for this, in Lasell's Student Financial Planning Office, but Since my dream is to do custom work, I was but I find sewing relaxing. I really looked for- she seemed unfazed. very pleased." ward to the work, but I told my fiance that I'd The weather cooperated for Laura's show. It Lasell College and the Lasell Institute for Fash- be needing plenty of R & R on our honeymoon." was sunny and not too warm as the audience ion Technology wish Laura every success in her Laura started sewing at an early age, inspired gathered under the tent at the Summer House. future career. **< by her mother, who makes bridal wear. "I've "I was so lucky to have Elie Honein (fashion Seniors Honored at Academic Recognition Banquet .Tor seniors, their families, and the faculty, the Saturday nightbefore graduation holds special significance. It is the BOOK AWARD 2003 RECIPIENTS night when Lasell College acknowledges individuals for their DemiseCivetti KatieGerrior DouglasNewton academic achievements, and the proud faces and loud applause Michael Conner KatrinaHester MichaelNorton signaled the recognition of the immense effort that these students have expended over the past four years. CatherineCorreia JillKillam RebekahOlson LaurenDuFresne FrantzcesLys DavidRichard This year's event included both book award winners in various programs JaymeFleischer Lori-BethMabie MatthewStaley as well as recognition of Lasell College's first Honors Program graduates. The Class of 2003 is the first to include Honors Program students, and eleven AmandaFrenette LindseyMilheirao NicoleSweeten men and women now have the words "Honors Program Graduate" on their Lasell transcript. The program was opened to students to raise the level of academic discourse and to challenge them HONORS PROGRAM 2003 to achieve excellence both inside and out- JaymeFleischer ElisaMcKernan JenniferStanley side of the classroom. AmandaFrenette CarlaMercurio NicoleSweeten "Ifs not the grades that got you here this evening; ifs the work, the commit- Lori-BethMabie MichaelNorton CaitlynZmayefski ment, the attitude, the motivation, and the MauraMcCarthy MelissaPante initiative," said Steven Bloom, dean of the School of Arts & Sciences and director of General Education and the Honors Pro- faculty feel about their recipients. "Lindsey is an outstanding student who gram. "You have chosen to be achievers." understands the value of a good education. She gives 110 percent to all she All departments presented their acade- attempts to do. She is professional, unpretentious and truly represents a mic book awards for excellence, and the Lasell College graduate. I will miss her." respect that faculty members have for In summation of the evening, Vice President for Academic Affairs Jim their students was apparent. The remarks Ostrow said, "In showcasing these students' academic achievements, we also that Ellen LaBelle, chair of the Hospitality celebrate what we stand for as an institution. This year's book award recipi- Management Program, made regarding Proud ProfessorEllenLaBellepresents Lindsey Milheirao '03, the book award ents and Honors Program graduates are all wonderful examples of academic LindseyMilheirao'03herbookaward. drive, leadership, and accomplishment within Lasell College's connected winner in her department, reflect what all learning environment. **• FALL 2003 9 LASELL LEAVES CAMPUS 5?®a 20th Century Fashion Students Let Their Imaginations Run Wild IhE STUDENTS IN PROFESSORJILL CAREY'S 20TH CENTURY FASHION class were able to be creative and let their imaginations run wild this spring with both their mid-term and their final project. The end result was two incredible exhibits: "50 Years of Women's Suits" and "Mod Squad." For both shows, Professor Carey was able to from soft to more masculine as the women's draw upon the Goodwill Costume collection for movement arrived. Today, most everyone Forthe"Mod Squad" exhibit,studentsworkedintheabstractand representational pieces for her students. As has that "little black suit" in her wardrobe. wereverycreative. Rachel Fleischner '04 and Krystle Rowe '04 "After we had dated the suit that Profes- explain, "The exhibit shows how much fashion is sor Carey gave us, we researched the world Once again the class was divided into teams a reflection of the times and the social and eco- events that were then occurring and created a and supplied with garments. After researching nomic pressures within each decade." person who might have worn the garment at that and pinpointing the period of the pieces (all from For "50 Years of Women's Suits," the students time. Making up this character and writing the the 1960's and '70's), the students created shoes and hairstyles to go along with them. The man- worked in teams. They accessorized the garments stories that described their lives was great fun," and wrote fictional biographies of the women says Mary Smyth '04. Titles of the students' nequins were wearing boots, shoes with flowery who may have possibly worn this type of cloth- essays ranged from "Zoot Suit Suitor" to bows, net stockings, and hair bands. "Working in ing. The suits covered a time span of 50 years, "Pretty in Pink." the abstract with materials like spray paint, gauze from the transitional suits of the 1930's to the The "Mod Squad" exhibit was the final project nanedwEelxmpeerr'isengcleu,e" msaaydseMiatrgyreSamtyftuhn.and was a power suits of the late 1970's, and on into the for the 20th Century class. "Because of an intern- early '80's. Some of the designers represented ship I did this semester at the American Textile Wandering through the Wedeman Gallery were Elizabeth Arden, Jeanne Lanvin, and Museum in Lowell, MA, I was inspired to display over Commencement Weekend when both Georgio Armani. more of the collection. It was time to move it out stihmoew.sThweervearuipetywaosf gliakremternatvselwiangsbbaoctkhtfhasrcoiungath- to tOhveeurtiltihteyyseuairtss,osfuWitsWweIIn,tafnrdoomnfltooratlheprminotrs,e othfisstboercaaguesaenmdypusttuidteonntsvitehiws.yIewaraswearbelestooedxocep- ing and fun, along with the stories, accessories, and hairstyles that accompanied them. **- feminine and romantic designs that followed the tional," explains Professor Carey. war. Hemlines rose and fell and styles varied 266 Incoming Students Attend June Orientation Sessions • UrIENTATION A TIME FOR QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS. CERTAINLY A TIME IS IT'S of excitement for the incoming class and offers them a glimpse of what's to come, both acade- mically and socially. On hand to help are the Student Affairs staff, 12 orientation leaders, and :T professors and advisors. "We have a lot of ground to cover," says encounter on campus, and what resources are Director of Student Activities Anne-Marie available. Topics such as diversity, alcohol aware- Kenney. "The students must physically learn ness, and campus safety are covered in separate Newstudentsandtheirorientationleadersgettoknow their way around campus, meet their peers, get sessions. Coaches are available to discuss athletic eachotherduringcommunity-buildingactivities. ready for their academic life with math, comput- programs and social events, and games are held er, and English testing, and, on the second day, in the evening. Troy Wall '05 concurs. "I love Lasell and I sit down with first year advisors and plan out "Orientation is a way of connecting the new want to show others everything about this col- their schedules." students to Lasell," says Anne-Marie. "By getting lege. I know I can make a difference. There was a "By the end of orientation, most of the First together in small groups of 20 with an orientation girl sitting by herself in the cafeteria and I joined Year Seminars (FYS) were filled," says Director of leader, they have a chance to get to know each her. She was a little stand-offish, but a few days First Year Programs Lisa Harris. "We have made other in a way thafs not so overwhelming. We later I received an email from her saying that it a few changes. This year more advisors will be hope all new students will use this experience to made her realize that meeting new people doesn't teaching their own students in their FYS section further connect themselves with the institution, have to be scary and that when the time came, so that closer ties will be formed, and there will making the journey to Lasell in the fall one they she didn't want to leave." be more sections doing electronic portfolios. look forward to traveling." From the comments received by Student "We have also developed a new program for The student orientation leaders are a dedicated Affairs, it is clear that this year's orientation met undeclared majors which clusters writing, FYS, group. "This is the third time I've done it," all expectations. Said one new student, "At first I and a computer course together. By forming this exclaims Alyssa Hein '04. "My only regret is that was hesitant about staying the night and the long learning community, the students will learn what I'll be graduating and won't be able to do it again day, but in the end it was worth it and a great their individual styles and interests are and this next year. I so enjoy easing the nerves of the experience. I feel more confident and comfortable should help them to choose their major." incoming students. I had a great experience dur- with the atmosphere. The staff was very friendly Besides academics, through "Life at Lasell" ing my Lasell orientation and I want others to and they made me feel at home. Thank you!" >* skits, the new students discover what they will have the same." 10 LASELL LEAVES FALL 2003