Dr. RaJade M. Berry-James was the invited keynote speaker at The Educational Opportunity Fund Professional Association of New Jersey, 38th Annual Spring Conference, Commission on Higher Education Student Leadership Conference and Graduate Awardee Luncheon. This year’s event was held in Atlantic City, New Jersey on March 17, 2008. Dr. Berry-James’ comments were centered around her professional mantra, “S/he Who Learns, Teaches“.
Dr. Rajade M. Berry-James and Ph.D. students Nichole Bunner, Juanita Elton, and Rosa Githiora presented their paper titled “Our Journey Toward Cultural Competence — Color Blind vs. Color Conscience” at the Annual National Conference on Diversity, Race and Learning, held May 6, 2008 at Ohio State University.
Dr. Ralph P. Hummel bid faculty and students farewell in May as he embarked on the next chapter in his life. Author of three books and numerous book chapters and journal articles, Dr. Hummel retired after 10 years at The University of Akron in the Department of Public Administration and Urban Studies. Dr. Hummel’s storied career began in the newspaper business with stints at The Detroit Times, The Pontiac Press, The Washington Post, and The New York Times. His first academic job was as an assistant professor at Fordham University. He came to Akron from the University of Oklahoma, where he had been since 1986. Dr. Hummel’s will be missed around the department by faculty, staff, and students alike. Best wishes in retirement, Dr. Hummel.
Nichole Bunner, a Ph.D. student, was one of twenty Founders’ Forum Fellow recipients at this year’s American Society of Public Administration meeting in Dallas, Texas. With recognition came financial support to attend the conference, admittance to a 2-day “student summit,” invitations to luncheons and awards ceremonies, and a special reception. Congratulations Nichole!