Category Archives: Jerry’s Picks

JoAnn Huether’s Morningside Treasure Quest

almamater1-300x198

Alma Mater (1903), designed by Daniel Chester French, on the steps of Low Library

When the Museum Meetup: Art on Campus tour appeared on the Jerry’s Picks list for October 20, I immediately signed up. My curiosity about the outdoor sculptures on Columbia’s campus was first piqued when my grandson, Cole, and I chose Columbia’s campus as the subject for his second-grade class assignment, a report on a New York City historical site.  Cole wanted to visit the Empire State Building; I did not. So, I enticed him with a challenge – that he would not be able to find the owl hidden among the folds of Alma Mater’s robes. We spent the afternoon of August 19 on the Morningside Campus.

Of course, our first stop was Alma Mater, and three hours later we had photos of every sculpture of interest to Cole. Although I was able to guide him in his search for the owl, I could not answer most of his questions about the sculptures. And, now, the opportunity for me to learn had presented itself.

P1010254-1024x768

“Life Force” (1988-92) by David Bakalar, on Revson Plaza

Roberto C.Ferrari, curator of Art Properties at Columbia University, led our group of 30 to several sculptures, each with a unique story. More generally, Roberto explained that outdoor sculpture is intended to be in our way. It is there for our interaction. He also pointed out the challenges posed by the conservation of outdoor sculpture, which are both physical and financial: only three of Columbia’s outside sculptures—Alma Mater, Thomas Jefferson, and Life Force—have endowments for their permanent care.

pan columbia

“The Great God Pan” (1863-1938) by George Grey Barnard, on the Lewisohn Hall lawn. Photograph by Roberto C. Ferrari

We met at Alma Mater, the most popular public sculpture on Columbia’s campus. Roberto encouraged us to interact with the sculpture, to walk around her, and to find something we had not noticed previously. This exercise produced many different comments and questions, all of which Roberto addressed, often adding something we didn’t notice. In addition to Alma Mater, our tour included The Great God Pan, John Howard Van Amringe, The Thinker, and the many artworks in front of the Law School.

And, as we walked through the Morningside Campus on a beautiful fall day, Roberto enlightened us with, not only the history of these works and their artists, but stories of superstitions, intercollegiate pranks, student songs, and so much more.

the thinker

“The Thinker” (1880-82) by Auguste Rodin, outside Philosophy Hall

To learn more about Columbia’s public art and the artists, visit Roberto’s blog at https://blogs.cul.columbia.edu/outdoorsculpture. Also, check out Columbia Magazine’s feature story Treasure Quest.

Why You Should Think: Jerry’s Picks 15.30

Why you should think about fashion…and race and media…and the Euro…and economic inequality…and digital-era diplomacy…and going to at least SOME of Jerry’s Picks. Be sure to share your event stories!

REMINDERS
 
November 9: Steps to Mass Flourishing: Social Values and Individual Experience 
November 13: The Dark Matter of Ghost Galaxies
November 17: Global Citizenship

PICKS

November 11
6 p.m.
The Center for Study of Ethnicity and Race | Tow Center for Digital Journalism
Race and New Media
A conversation on identity and new digital publishing formats with Minh-Ha T. Pham, assistant professor in the graduate program in media studies at Pratt Institute; Susan E. McGregor, assistant director of the Tow Center for Digital Journalism; Lisa Lucas, publisher of Guernica Magazine; and Ayesha Siddiqi, editor-in-chief of The New Inquiry. Susan E. McGregor will moderate. RSVP here. Pulitzer Hall, World Room. (Just Societies, 21st Century Public Square)

6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Earth Institute
Why You Should Think about Fashion If You Care About Sustainability
Panelists will speak to the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry, strategies for more sustainable practices, and specific challenges companies face when they try to implement sustainability in apparel supply chains. Speakers include Patrick Duffy, vice president of sustainability, manufacturing and external affairs at Manufacture New York; Scott Miller, director of business development at the Sustainable Apparel Coalition; Teel Lidow, founder of the sustainable fashion startup Boerum Apparel; Leo Bonanni, founder and CEO of Sourcemap; Ruth Hsia Isenstadt, co-lead of the sustainable materials research and development team at Eileen Fisher. Registration is required here. Fayerweather Hall, Room 310. (Climate Change, Just Societies)

November 16
6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Columbia/Barnard Hillel
Judaism and Activism: The Columbia/Barnard Legacy
A discussion with Columbia and Barnard Rabbi activists, including Jill Jacobs ’97CC, executive director of T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights; Joanna Samuels ’92BC, founding executive director of the Manny Cantor Center, a space on the Lower East Side that is redefining the Jewish Community Center and the Settlement House for a new era; and Sharon Kleinbaum ’81BC, spiritual leader of Congregation Beit Simchat Torah, a synagogue that has been a haven for LGBTQ Jews and allies. Kraft Center, Hillel, Room 5A. (Just Societies)

November 17
1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
European Institute | Maison Française | European Union
The Future of the Euro
On the occasion of the publication of his new book, Europe’s Orphan: The Future of the Euro and the Politics of Debt, Martin Sandbu, writer at The Financial Times, will discuss the origins of Europe’s monetary union, the impact of the financial crisis, and the way ahead for Europe to achieve an economic and political recovery. Sandbu will be joined in conversation by Mark Blyth, professor of political economy at Brown University, and Adam Tooze, director of the European Institute. Maison Française, Buell Hall, East Gallery. (Global)

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Business School
Income Inequality: Is This the End of the American Dream?
Peter Georgescu, chairman emeritus of Young & Rubicam, will speak about the true business cost of income inequality and what CEOs should be doing to help mitigate it. Moderated by Ray Horton, the Frank R. Lautenberg Professor of Ethics and Corporate Governance. Reception to follow. Register here. Uris Hall, Room 301. (Just Societies)

November 18
7 p.m.
Center for Jazz Studies
Louis Armstrong and the Jazz Trumpet Legacy
Jon Faddis, renowned jazz trumpet player, will be in conversation with Krin Gabbard, trumpet player and professor of comparative literature and English at Stony Brook. Followed by a performance by the Jon Faddis Quartet. To RSVP, e-mail [email protected]. Miller Theatre.

November 19
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
University Programs and Events | European Institute | SIPA
Diplomacy in the Digital Age
This World Leaders Forum features an address by the Honorable Matthew W. Barzun, U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Adam Tooze, director of the European Institute, and Alexis Wichowski, adjunct assistant professor of International and Public Affairs, will moderate. Followed by a Q&A with the audience and then a reception. Registration is required and will open here on Tuesday, November 10 at 10 a.m. Earl Hall, Auditorium. (Global, 21st Century Public Square)

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Graduate School of Journalism
NYT Foreign Correspondent Alissa J. Rubin in Conversation With Jill Abramson
Jill Abramson, former executive editor of The New York Times, and Alissa J. Rubin, recipient of the 2015 John Chancellor Award for Excellence in Journalism and the Paris bureau chief for The New York Times, will discuss the risks and rewards of a career in journalism, their experiences at the Times, the challenges of being a female war correspondent, and work-life balance. RSVP here. Pulitzer Hall, Lecture Hall. (21st Century Public Square)

November 20
7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
School of the Arts
Invisible Thread
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the School of the Arts, a new musical depicting a young man’s life-changing experience while volunteering in Africa. Followed by a conversation with the Tony Award-winning director, Diane Paulus ’97SOA, and associate director Shira Milikowsky ’07SOA. Purchase tickets here. Tony Kiser Theatre.

For RSVP, ticket availability, and other details, follow the links. We always appreciate hearing from you about future events!

Jerry’s Picks 15.29

From the PayPal founder to the Venice Biennale artist, the veteran experience to science education, the full Columbia sweep. And check out Brian C. (the colleague) on Brian G. (the theoretical physicist). If you prefer, view on the Jerry’s Picks Blog. And be sure to share your event stories.

REMINDERS

November 5: The Untold Story of Women in Iran
November 11: The Public Health Imagination: Groundbreaking Ideas in Population Health

PICKS

November 9 

9:15 a.m. – 6 p.m. 
Center on Capitalism and Society
Steps to Mass Flourishing: Social Values and Individual Experience 
This conference examines social values and their influence on economic dynamism and innovation. It will also explore the shift toward responsible investing and the idea that new forms of capitalism are needed to solve social problems such as climate change and inequality. Speakers include venture capitalist and entrepreneur Peter Thiel, founder of PayPal and Founders Fund; Peter Jungen, chairman of Peter Jungen Holding GmbH; and Edmund Phelps, director of the Center on Capitalism and Society and winner of the 2006 Nobel Prize in economics. A full schedule and list of speakers is available here. Lunch is available only to registered guests. RSVP here. Casa Italiana. (21st Century Public Square)

6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 
Teachers College
White House Technology Strategist on the Future of STEM Education
Seth Andrew, senior adviser to the chief technology officer of the United States, helps lead the Obama Administration’s efforts to promote, improve, and diversify STEM education. He has advocated for more access to critical technologies for poor and rural schools as a means to improve students’ academic performance. Andrews will give a talk on the future of STEM in our schools, followed by a Q&A. RSVP here. Teachers College, Milbank Chapel.

November 12
9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Columbia Journalism School
Journalism and Silicon Valley
Journalism is increasingly dependent on and influenced by the companies that dominate the social web. Companies like Facebook, Twitter, and Google are no longer “just platforms” and are now actively shaping how journalism is practiced and funded. Keynote conversation about the relationship between news organizations and social networks with Emily Bell, professor of professional practice and director of the Tow Center for Digital Journalist, and Mark Thompson, CEO of the New York Times. Reception to follow. Pulitzer Hall. (21st Century Public Square)

7 p.m.
School of the Arts
Joan Jonas with Jason Moran
A conversation with Joan Jonas ’65SOA, acclaimed performance and video artist, and Jason Moran, artistic director for jazz at the Kennedy Center, as they discuss Jonas’ installation They Come to Us Without a Word. RSVP here. Miller Theatre.

November 13
6:15 p.m.
Veteran Initiatives
Cry Havoc: One-Person Play
After battling post-traumatic stress disorder after six years in the army, Stephan Wolfert discovered Shakespeare. With those timeless words and Wolfert’s own personal stories, Cry Havoc is an interactive journey through Shakespeare and the difficulties that our veterans and their families face. Schapiro Center, Davis Auditorium.

November 17
6 p.m. – 7:15 p.m.
Columbia Global Reports | Committee on Global Thought
Global Citizenship
Atossa Araxia Abrahamian will debut her first book, The Cosmopolites: The Coming of the Global Citizen. Abrahamian will discuss global citizenship and statelessness with novelist Joseph O’Neill and professor Rosalind Morris (anthropology). Moderated by Nicholas Lemann, director of Columbia Global Reports and dean emeritus of the School of Journalism. Registration required here. Pulitzer Hall, World Room. (Global, 21st Century Public Square)
 
For RSVP, ticket availability, and other details, follow the links. We always appreciate hearing from you about future events!

Let’s Get Physic-al: Two Brians, the Expanding Universe, and Junior High Romance

I have a thing for physics.  A very complicated thing.

Physics can be thrilling, beautiful, and wondrous.  It makes me feel hopeful.  Physics can also be baffling, contradictory, and impossible.  It makes me feel stupid.

It is a perfect analogy for my first junior high school romance.

So it was with a 13-year-old’s sense of awe and dread that I went uptown to see Brian Greene speak about “Searching for the Deep Laws of Nature” at the Dean’s Distinguished Lecture Series.  Brian is professor of physics and mathematics and sometime NOVA host on PBS who has sold gazillions of books, including The Elegant Universe, a Pulitzer Prize finalist.

green2

Brian Greene by Lois Greenfield in the Spring 2006 Columbia Magazine

None of that mattered.  He had me at “Deep Laws of Nature.”

Brian Greene is a star (not in the cosmological sense) and draws a crowd, so the auditorium was packed with a few hundred people jamming both the main floor and the balcony.  The crowd was mostly medical students and faculty, and it looked like a scrubs-and-backpacks convention.

When Brian explained that his work is all about trying to understand beautiful concepts  that are beyond our ability to measure, a very serious young doctor behind me muttered “That is so weird, but so cool.”

When he explained Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity as
simply as if it was the way to open a combination lock (turn to the left, turn to the right, turn to the left: Gravity), the person next to me audibly gasped.

And when he explained that the past, present and future actually exist in the universe at the same time (Einstein called the distinction between them “a stubbornly persistent illusion”), I think I actually heard the sound of minds blowing.  But that may just have been mine.

It was another great example of the amazing (literally) things that are available to us within Columbia on any given day.

The Dean’s Distinguished Lecture Series is a set of annual talks by faculty in the Humanities, Basic Sciences and Clinical Sciences for CUMC audiences.  Past speakers include Sylvia Nasar, Simon Schama, Fred Friendly, and Eric Kandel.

There is a lot more about Brian Greene at www.briangreene.org.

Jerry’s Picks 15.28

Women’s rights in Iran, clarinets in Brazil, Panthers on film, self-monitoring bridges, and other events from Sir Michael Marmot to ghost galaxies… 

Be sure to check out our Featured Event Story by Jerry’s Picks own Carolina Castro and share your event stories.

REMINDERS

October 29: Sustainability and Climate Change in the 2016 Presidential Race
November 4: Scents and Sensibility: Representations of the Olfactory World in the Brain featuring Richard Axel and Billie Holiday: The Musician and the Myth

PICKS

November 5
6 p.m.

Barnard Center for Research on Women | Middle East Institute
The Untold Story of Women in Iran
Historian and human rights advocate Nina Ansary ’89BC will be joined in conversation with Richard Bulliet, professor of history and middle east studies to discuss on her new book on the women’s movement in Iran, Jewels of Allah. Barnard College, Diana Center, Oval Auditorium. (Just Societies)

November 6
6 p.m.

School of the Arts | Columbia Journalism School
The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution
Screening of the acclaimed documentary The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution, followed by a conversation with the director Stanley Nelson;  producer Laurens Grant, and professors June Cross (Journalism) andJamal Joseph (SOA). RSVP here. 3rd Floor, Lecture Hall, Pulitzer Hall. (Just Societies)

November 7
8 p.m.

Miller Theatre
Jazz: Anat Cohen Quartet
The Jazz Journalists Association’s Clarinetist of the Year for the past eight years,Anat Cohen will perform alongside Jason Lindner (piano), Tal Mashiach (bass), andDaniel Freedman (drums). Cohen specializes in the Afro-Western, improvisatory, instrumental music known as choro — an analogue of early jazz in the U.S. Purchase tickets here. Miller Theatre. (Global)

November 10
5:30 p.m.
Italian Academy | Columbia Engineering
Raimondo Betti: Monitoring the Health of Our Bridges
This lecture is the first in the Italian Academy’s series on the work of Italian scientists in the area of sustainability. Professor Raimondo Betti (civil engineering and engineering mechanics) will discuss aging U.S. infrastructure, spectacular failures, and urgent maintenance needs. Betti will share his vision of the future in which infrastructure will be able to monitor its own health, estimate its structural integrity, and launch corrective actions. Register here. The Italian Academy, 1161 Amsterdam Avenue. (Data and Society)

6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Columbia Journalism School
What Happens When Television and the Internet Collide
The explosion of screens and devices, the rise of new platforms, innovations in tools and technology, and the growth of digital audiences around the world have spurred new opportunities for creative storytelling and collaboration in news organizations.Meredith Artley, managing editor and vice president of CNN Digital, is this year’s Hearst Digital Media Professional-in-Residence. Artley will share some examples of successes and lessons learned at CNN and beyond. Pulitzer Hall, Lecture Hall.(The Public Square)

November 11
4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Mailman School of Public Health
The Public Health Imagination: Groundbreaking Ideas in Population Health
Join Linda P. Fried for a Dean’s Grand Rounds with Mark T. Bertolini, CEO of Aetna healthcare, and Sir Michael Marmot, chair of the Commission on Social Determinants of Health, who was knighted for his services to epidemiology and understanding health inequalities. Alumni Auditorium, 650 West, 168th Street.

November 13
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Astronomy Department
The Dark Matter of Ghost Galaxies
The smallest galaxies, known as dwarf galaxies, present a number of mysteries. Graduate student Jana Grcevich (astronomy) will talk about these mysteries and how astronomers attempt to solve them as part of the Stargazing and Lecture Series. The lecture includes a Q&A session, astrophotography slideshows, and an observatory tour followed by guided stargazing with telescopes (weather permitting). Pupin Hall.

For RSVP, ticket availability, and other details, follow the links. We always appreciate hearing from you about future events!

Jerry’s Picks 15.27

Brains, noses, rivers, and all that jazz! Be sure to share your event stories!

REMINDERS

October 19: The Negotiator: A Conversation with Senator George Mitchell
October 20: George Rupp: “The Power – and Limitations – of Individualism”

PICKS

October 27
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Maison Française
The Bishnois, Ecologists Since the 15th Century
Screening of a documentary by award-winning French photographer and environmental activist Franck Vogel on the lives of the Bishnoi community of Rajasthan in India, who have made wildlife conservation and environmental protection their life’s work. Followed by a Q&A with Vogel, joined in conversation by Ruth DeFries, Denning Family Professor of Sustainable Development. Maison Française, East Gallery, Buell Hall. (Global)

October 29
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Earth Institute | Maison Française
Transboundary Rivers
Another evening with photographer Franck Vogel. Vogel’s series has focused on global transboundary water tensions around seven key rivers: the Nile, the Brahmaputra, the Colorado, the Mekong, the Jordan, the Amazon, and the Ganges. Vogel will present his work-in-progress through photography. Also with Upmanu Lall, the Alan and Carol Silberstein Professor of Engineering and director of the Columbia Water Center. Maison Française, East Gallery, Buell Hall. (Global)

November 4
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Zuckerman Institute
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Brain Insight Lectures
Scents and Sensibility: Representations of the Olfactory World in the Brain featuring Dr. Richard Axel
How does the brain know what the nose is smelling? Richard Axel, Nobel laureate and co-director of the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, has the answers. RSVP here. Miller Theatre. (Zuckerman Institute and the Future of Neuroscience)

7 p.m.
Center for Jazz Studies
Billie Holiday: The Musician and the Myth
John Szwed, director of the Center for Jazz Studies, will discuss his book Billie Holiday: The Musician and the Myth. Introduction by Farah Jasmine Griffin, the William B. Ransford Professor of English and Comparative Literature and African-American Studies, with a performance by jazz vocalist Catherine Russell and her trio. Teatro, Casa Italiana, Morningside Campus.

SNEAK PEEK
November 12, 7 p.m.
Fishing for Neutrinos at the South Pole
Act now: these programs tend to fill up quickly! Nevis Labs, Columbia’s science facility in the Westchester river town of Irvington, has begun to welcome the public through a Science-on-Hudson lecture series. This one features Professor Michael Shaevitz describing the IceCube project and the particle detector designed to observe the cosmos from deep within the South Pole ice. RSVP here. Science Center at Nevis Laboratories, 136 South Broadway. Irvington, New York.

For RSVP, ticket availability, and other details, follow the links. We always appreciate hearing from you about future events!

Jerry’s Picks 15.26

From climate change in the presidential race to difficult international negotiations, presenting sitar traditions to building inclusive communities, Columbia invites the world in. 

Remember, this Thursday two great faculty members, psychologist Valerie Purdie-Vaughns ’93CC and biology and chemistry professor Brent Stockwell, give the University Lecture on “Teaching and Learning in a University, Version 2.0.” 

And be sure to share your event stories!

October 13
5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Diversity and Inclusion
Being the Change, Leading the Charge: Diversity in Higher Education
Panelists include Anne L. Taylor, vice dean of academic affairs at the College of Physicians and Surgeons; Katherine W. Phillips, Paul Calello Professor of Leadership and Ethics at Columbia Business School; Marcel Agüeros, assistant professor of astronomy; Gilda A. Barabino, dean of City College of New York’s Grove School of Engineering; and Aaron Dworkin, dean of the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre, and Dance. Provost John Coatsworth will moderate. This event is complemented by a series of diversity-related activities the week of October 12. Low Library Rotunda. (Just Societies) (Reminder)

October 19
6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Advanced Consortium on Cooperation, Conflict, and Complexity
The Negotiator: A Conversation with Senator George Mitchell
Former U.S. Senator George Mitchell will discuss his memoir, The Negotiator, reflect on his experiences with conflict resolution in Northern Ireland, the Middle East, and elsewhere, and comment on the nuclear agreement with Iran. Mitchell will be joined by Aldo Civico, associate research scholar director of the International Institute for Peace at Rutgers University. Register here. Teachers College, Horace Mann Hall, Room 147, Cowin Auditorium. (Global)

October 20
4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
The Institute for Religion, Culture, and Public Life
George Rupp: “The Power – and Limitations – of Individualism”
Distinguished visiting scholar and Columbia University President Emeritus George Rupp advocates for new solutions to global challenges, income inequality, climate change, and mass migration in his newest book, Beyond Individualism: The Challenge of Inclusive Communities. Rupp will speak about the challenge of inclusive communities and discuss issues raised by a panel of special guests. Reception to follow. Rupp will be on hand to sign copies of his book (which will be available for purchase). Register here. Earl Hall, 2nd floor, Auditorium. (Global, Just Societies, Climate Change)

October 26
5 p.m. – 6:15 p.m. 
Center on Global Energy Policy
Lighting the World: A Conversation with Jim Rogers, Former Chairman and CEO, Duke Energy
Rogers will discuss his new book Lighting the World: Transforming our Energy Future by Bringing Electricity to Everyone and the kind of innovative thinking, international cooperation, and political will required to provide sustainable energy access to all. Moderated by David Sandalow, CGEP Inaugural Fellow. Registration is required here. Faculty House, 3rd floor, Presidential Room. (Global, Just Societies)

October 29
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
The Earth Institute
Sustainability and Climate Change in the 2016 Presidential Race
How have environmental issues come to be as politically salient as they are today? Steve Cohen, executive director of the Earth Institute; William Eimicke, director of the Picker Center for Executive Education; and Emily Lloyd, commissioner of New York City’s Department of Environmental Protection, will look at which environmental issues will play a role in the upcoming presidential election. Moderated by Chuck Todd, from NBC’s Meet the Press. Register here. International Affairs Building, Kellogg Center, Room 1501. (Climate, 21st Century Public Square)

October 30
8 p.m. – 10 p.m.   
South Asia Institute | Miller Theatre
Ustad Shahid Parvez Khan and Amit Kavthekar in Concert
Master sitarist Khan descends from six generations of sitarists. The concert will also feature Amit Kavthekar on tabla. Purchase tickets here. Miller Theatre.

November 4
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Columbia Law School | The Earth Institute
Who Is Responsible for Climate Change?
The question of responsibility for climate change lies at the heart of debate over actions to address it. This conference explores the scientific, legal, ethical, and policy bases for assigning climate responsibility to countries and to other entities—individuals, emitting industries, and fossil fuel companies. Speakers include Peter Frumhoff, director of Science and Policy Union of Concerned Scientists; Michael Gerrard, director of the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law; Karenna Gore, director of the Center for Earth Ethics; Sivan Kartha, senior scientist at the Stockholm Environment Institute; Naomi Oreskes, professor of the History of Science at Harvard; and Michael Vandenbergh, David Daniels Allen Distinguished Chair of Law at Vanderbilt. Register here. Jerome Greene Hall, Room 104. (Climate Change)

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Columbia University Libraries
Twain and Stanley Enter Paradise
Posthumous release of a work by the late Pulitzer Prize-winning author Oscar Hijuelos, with a reading by Lori Carlson-Hijuelos, lecturer in English at Duke; Frances Negron-Muntaner, associate professor of English and comparative literature; and authors Siri Hustvedt and Paul Auster ’69CC. Pulitzer Hall, World Room.

Events are now tagged where appropriate with University-wide Big Ideas: Precision Medicine, Global, Climate Change, Data and Society, Just Societies, 21st Century Public Square, and the Zuckerman Institute and the Future of Neuroscience. Through Big Ideas, faculty and students from multiple schools and campuses collaborate for transformative impact, addressing major issues of our time.
 
For RSVP, ticket availability, and other details, follow the links. We always appreciate hearing from you about future events!

Jerry’s Picks 15.25

Campus diversity, universal health care, human rights in the U.S., Joseph Mitchell in New York, medical education, or Columbia’s art treasures: pick your Pick! 

And be sure to share your event stories.

October 7
6:30 p.m.
University Seminars | Lehman Center for American History | Columbia Journalism School
Joseph Mitchell and the City
Thomas Kunkel, president of St. Norbert College and author of Man in Profile: Joseph Mitchell of The New Yorker, will be in discussion with Gay Talese, author and former reporter at The New York Times. Moderated by Dean Steve Coll. Reception to follow. Faculty House, 2nd floor.

October 13
5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Diversity and Inclusion
Being the Change, Leading the Charge: Diversity in Higher Education
Provost John Coatsworth will moderate a discussion with diversity thought leaders and change agents. Panelists include Anne L. Taylor,  vice dean of academic affairs at the College of Physicians and Surgeons; Katherine W. Phillips, Paul Calello Professor of Leadership and Ethics at Columbia Business School; Marcel Agüeros, assistant professor of astronomy; Gilda A. Barabino, dean of City College of New York’s Grove School of Engineering; and Aaron Dworkin, dean of the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre, and Dance. Followed by a Q&A with the audience and a reception. This event is complemented by a series of diversity-related activities the week of October 12. Low Library, Rotunda. (Just Societies)

October 15
4 p.m. 
College of Physicians and Surgeons
Universal Health Care: An Idea Whose Time has Come?
Donna E. Shalala, president of the Clinton Foundation and former U.S. Secretary for Health and Human Services, will speak as part of the Andrew David Hyman Memorial Lectures. Reception to follow. Please contact Christina Hansen at [email protected] for more information. Alumni Auditorium, 650 West 168th Street, 1st floor. (Reminder)

6 p.m. – 7:15 p.m.
University Lecture
Teaching and Learning in a University, Version 2.0
Hosted by President Lee C. Bollinger and Provost John H. Coatsworth. Professors Valerie Purdie-Vaughns (psychology) and Brent R. Stockwell (biology) discuss challenges and innovations in teaching, and how a new paradigm can transform the educational experience for students. Followed by a Q&A with the audience and a reception. Online registration is required and will open on Tuesday, October 6 at 10:00 am here. Low Library, Rotunda.

October 20
2 p.m.
University Arts Initiative | Art Properties
Museum Meetup: Art on Campus
Hamilton and Jefferson, Pegasus and Pan, Alma Mater and the Thinker are all outdoor sculptures we see on the Morningside campus. Roberto C. Ferrari, curator of Art Properties at Columbia University, will lead a highlights tour of this collection of public art and discuss the artists and history of these works, their materiality and fabrication, and ongoing efforts to conserve them for future generations. RSVP required here. The tour will meet on the Low Library plaza steps by Alma Mater. For more on “Columbia’s bounty of hidden art,” check out Columbia Magazine’s related article here.

4 p.m. – 6 p.m.  
Columbia Medical Center | Office of University Life
Special Guest Lecture: President Bollinger
President Bollinger  will speak about diversity in higher education. Open to current Columbia faculty, students, and staff. RSVP required here. Alumni Auditorium, 650 West 168th St., 1st floor.

October 21
8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
College of Physicians and Surgeons
CUMC Seventh Annual Steve Miller Medical Education Day
An annual event promoting medical education and humanism in medicine, in paying tribute to the legacy contributions of the late Steve Miller ’80CC, ’84P&S, former director of pediatric emergency medicine and director of pediatric medical student education. Featuring a grand rounds talk by Abraham Verghese, author of the New York Times best-seller Cutting for Stone and vice chair for the theory and practice of medicine at Stanford University. For more information, please contact Ashley Elich at [email protected]. CUMC Alumni Auditorium, 650 West 168th Street, 1st floor.

October 22
12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Columbia Law School
Advancing U.S. Social Justice Through Human Rights
To mark the 15th anniversary of the Bringing Human Rights Home Lawyers’ Network, the Human Rights Institute is hosting a series of events exploring the history, impact, and future of the effort to bring human rights home. This event includes a keynote address by Caroline Bettinger-Lopez ’03LAW, White House advisor on violence against women. Followed by a panel of human rights practitioners moderated by Cindy Soohoo, director for CUNY’s International Women’s Human Rights Clinic. Closing remarks by Cathy Albisa serving on New York City’s Commission on Human Rights. Lunch will be provided. Reception to follow. Jerome Greene Hall, Room 102A. (Just Societies)

Events are now tagged where appropriate with University-wide Big Ideas: Precision Medicine, Global, Climate Change, Data and Society, Just Societies, 21st Century Public Square, and the Zuckerman Institute and the Future of Neuroscience. Through Big Ideas, faculty and students from multiple schools and campuses collaborate for transformative impact, addressing major issues of our time.
 
For RSVP, ticket availability, and other details, follow the links. We always appreciate hearing from you about future events!

Jerry’s Picks 15.24

This week, heads of state from around the world—Bangladesh to Croatia to Mozambique—will speak at the World Leaders Forum. List of speakers and RSVP information here. If you have difficulties registering for a World Leaders Forum event and you want to invite a special guest, please contact Anna Barranca-Burke at [email protected]And be sure to share your event stories!
 
October 7
4:30 p.m.
Columbia University Medical Center
Dean’s Distinguished Lecture Series
Searching for the Deep Laws of Nature with Brian Greene, professor of physics and mathematics and director of the Columbia Center for Theoretical Physics. Greene is widely recognized for a number of groundbreaking discoveries in string theory, for his books on physics written for a general audience, and for his role as co-founder of the World Science Festival. CUMC Alumni Auditorium, 650 West 168th Street, 1st floor.

October 10
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Wallach Family Day
Guided tours at the Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Art Gallery, currently exhibiting Rembrandt’s Changing Impressions, and hands-on printmaking session in the Neiman Center for Print Studies. Registration required here. Schermerhorn Hall, 8th floor.

October 15
6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Mailman School of Public Health | Barnard Forum on Migration
The Surge: Politics, Violence, and Children in Central America and Mexico
This conference aims to understand the origins of the recent migration of large numbers of unaccompanied children to the US from Central America and Mexico and explore the social and political climate of the countries from which they are emigrating. Opening remarks by Jose Moya, director of the Institute of Latin American Studies. Panelist include José Alberto Idiáquez Guevara, rector from the Universidad Centro Americana in Nicaragua; Dennis Stinchcomb  and Eric Hershberg from the Center for Latin American and Latino Studies at American University; Mark Canavera, associate director of the CPC (Care and Protection of Children) Learning Network Secretariat at Mailman; and Nara Milanich, associate professor of history at Barnard. Register here. Altschul Hall, Lehman Auditorium, 3009 Broadway. (Global)
 
5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
SIPA
The Importance of Cheap Labor: Can Professional Fulfillment, Child-Rearing, and Equality Ever Be Combined?
Dean Merit E. Janow and Baroness Wolf, British economist and director of the International Centre for University Policy Research at King’s College London, will explore societies struggle with the clash between work and family demands. Introduction by Yasmine Ergas, director of the gender and public policy specialization. Register here. International Affairs Building, Room 1501. (Just Societies)

4 p.m.
College of Physicians and Surgeons
Universal Health Care: An Idea Whose Time has Come?
Donna E. Shalala, president of the Clinton Foundation and former U.S. Secretary for Health and Human Services, will speak as part of the Andrew David Hyman Memorial Lectures. Reception to follow. Please contact Christina Hansen at [email protected] for more information. Alumni Auditorium, 650 West 168th Street, 1st floor.
 
October 17
12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Columbia College Alumni Association | Columbia Engineering Alumni Association
Homecoming 2015
The first homecoming game led by Al Bagnoli. A day of interactive activities including face-painting, games, and fencing with the 2015 NCAA Championship fencing team. Followed by the Lions game against the Penn Quakers. Purchase game tickets here and carnival tickets here. Baker Athletics Complex, 533 West, 218th Street.

Events are now tagged where appropriate with University-wide Big Ideas: Precision Medicine, Global, Climate Change, Data and Society, Just Societies, 21st Century Public Square, and the Zuckerman Institute and the Future of Neuroscience. Through Big Ideas, faculty and students from multiple schools and campuses collaborate for transformative impact, addressing major issues of our time.

For RSVP, ticket availability, and other details, follow the links. We always appreciate hearing from you about future events!

Jerry’s Picks 15.23

Nine not-so-picky picks below as fall’s abundance throws all editorial discipline to the wind! Be sure to share your event stories!

A special campus opportunity from SIPA and the Italian Academy, now through October 15: Nick Danziger’s compelling exhibit of black and white photographs of women and children around the world, answering the question: Did the UN Millennium Development Goals succeed in giving families a better life? More information here.

September 19 – 26 
School of the Arts
Morningside Lights: New York Nocturne
A week of free community arts workshops culminates in a procession of handmade lanterns inspired by New York City after dark. See the schedule of daily lantern-building workshops here. Illuminated procession on September 26 at 8 p.m. Morningside Park, 116th Street and Morningside Avenue. (Reminder)

September 25
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Columbia Business School
Imagine and Inspire: The Future of Social Enterprise
The field of social enterprise emerged as activists, business people, and organizations used their skills to solve the last century’s most pressing problems. In celebration of Columbia Business School’s Centennial, this conference will explore what the next 100 years of social enterprise will entail. List of speakers and schedule here. Purchase tickets ($150) here. The New York Historical Society Museum. (Just Societies)

September 30
6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Institute for Research in African-American Studies
Reconstruction: In Pursuit of Family History from 40 Acres and a Mule to Black Lives Matter
A conversation with Keith Boykin, assistant adjunct professor at the Institute for Research in African-American Studies and a New York Times best-selling author and TV commentator.
School of Journalism, 3rd floor. (Just Societies)

September 29
6 p.m. – 9 p.m. 
Columbia Entrepreneurship
Sports, the Digital Bellwether
The first live televised sporting event in the U.S. took place on May 17, 1939 at Baker Field. Since then, innovations in TV delivery continue to change the viewer experience and social media is fostering new relationships among athletes, leagues, and fans. Big League digital innovators of the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB will be in conversation with NBA Commissioner Emeritus David J. Stern ’66LAW. Purchase tickets here. If alumni relations and development officers would like to use this event as an engagement opportunity, please contact Christopher McGarry at [email protected] to request complimentary tickets. 125 W. 18th Street, Metropolitan Pavilion. (21st Century Public Square) (Reminder)

October 2
4 – 5:30 p.m.
East Asian Languages and Cultures
The Importance of Early China and the Indispensable Role of Western Institutions
An inaugural ceremony for the Tang Center for Early China. Opening remarks by Provost John Coatsworth and keynote lecture by Li Feng, professor of early Chinese history and archaeology. Please contact Maryellen Rogusky at [email protected] to RSVP. Low Library, Faculty Room. (Global)

6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.  
School of the Arts
Preview Screening of The 33
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the School of the Arts, an exclusive screening of The 33, a film that tells the story of the 2010 Chilean mining disaster where 33 miners were trapped underground for 69 days. A Q&A will follow with the director Patricia Riggen ’03SOA. Miller Theatre.

October 2 – 3
The Brown Institute for Media Innovation
Computation and Journalism Symposium
This forum brings together a broad range of thinkers, doers, journalists, and storytellers to discuss the ways journalism is and should be adapting in the face of new technologies. Opening keynote by Lada Adamic, data scientist at Facebook and closing reception by Chris Wiggins, associate professor of applied mathematics and chief data scientist at the New York Times. Register here. Brown Institute for Media Innovation, Pulitzer Hall, 2950 Broadway. (Data and Society, 21st Century Public Square)

October 6
6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Columbia University Libraries
Alice’s Adventures at Columbia
In 1932, Alice Pleasance Hargreaves was awarded an honorary degree by Columbia University for the centenary of Lewis Carroll’s birth and for inspiring the tale Alice in Wonderland. A lecture by Dayna Huhn, founder of the Lewis Carroll Society of Canada, followed by a viewing of the accompanying exhibition at Columbia’s Rare Book and Manuscript Library. Butler Library, 6th floor, East.

October 7
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
College of Physicians and Surgeons | School of Continuing Education
Narrative Medicine Rounds: Akhil Sharma, Author
Narrative Medicine Rounds are lectures or readings presented by scholars, clinicians, or writers engaged in work at the intersection of narrative and health care. Akhil Sharma, assistant professor of creative writing at Rutgers University, is the author of An Obedient Father, winner of the PEN/Hemingway Award, and a New York Times Notable Book of the Year. CUMC Faculty Club, Physicians and Surgeons Building, 4th floor.

Events are now tagged where appropriate with University-wide Big Ideas: Precision Medicine, Global, Climate Change, Data and Society, Just Societies, 21st Century Public Square, and the Zuckerman Institute and the Future of Neuroscience. Through Big Ideas, faculty and students from multiple schools and campuses collaborate for transformative impact, addressing major issues of our time.

For RSVP, ticket availability, and other details, follow the links. We always appreciate hearing from you about future events!