VOL. 35, NO. 19 – JUNE 17, 2004

Photo illustration by Kurt Stepnitz Robert Pennock, an associate professor in MSU’s Lyman Briggs School of Science, is using a National Science Foundation grant to take a computer program that speeds up the process of evolution and turn it into a teaching tool. Pennock said this will not only teach students about evolution, but also improve their knowledge of the scientific process.

'U' receives grant to develop digital evolution teaching tool

Robert Pennock is going to use a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to give students what he calls an “ah ha!” moment. (Full story)

Location and familiarity keys to recruiting, retaining teachers

Teachers would rather work close to home and in schools like the ones they attended as students, a report commissioned by MSU’s Education Policy Center and released recently has found. (Full story)

WKAR to celebrate 50th with events, open house

WKAR-TV will continue celebrating its 50th anniversary season with a public open house from noon to 4 p.m., Saturday, June 19, at the station’s studios, located on the MSU campus. Caroll Spinney, the legendary puppeteer who created and still performs the characters of “Big Bird” and “Oscar the Grouch” on “Sesame Street,” will be the featured guest, appearing as himself and not in costume. (Full story)

School of Music's Web site fine-tuned

After a trial year of feedback and updates, the School of Music’s new Web site, first “pitched” in April 2003, is now fine-tuned. (Full story)

MSU loses pioneer in athletics, academics

Gwendolyn Norrell of East Lansing, who at one time was the highest-ranking woman in the history of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), left her mark nationally and on MSU’s academic and athletic programs. (Full story)

Spartans to take the field at 2004 Summer Olympics

MSU know-how is bringing a little myth-like magic to the summer games. (Full story)

Residential colleges' labs are numerous and varied

Most faculty members in MSU’s residential colleges don’t have laboratories in the traditional sense, but that doesn’t mean they do any less research than their colleagues in the so-called “hard” sciences. (Full story)

Center offers smooth sailing this summer

Memberships, classes available

The MSU Sailing Center is open for people to set sail with classes and memberships on Lake Lansing in Haslett this 2004 season. (Full story)