TO: The UMBC Campus Community

FROM: Diane Lee, Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Education, and Greg Simmons, Vice President for Institutional Advancement

RE: Naming Academic IV for Generous Supporters of UMBC

We are delighted to announce that the USM Board of Regents have approved UMBC’s request to officially name Academic IV after George and Betsy Sherman, in honor of their generous support of the University. Over nearly 20 years, the Shermans have committed more than $10 million to help strengthen our efforts increase the number of well-prepared, highly qualified teachers committed to teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in high-needs school throughout the Greater Baltimore region.

In 2007, the Shermans partnered with UMBC to start the Sherman STEM Teacher Scholars Program, which is dedicated to growing the number of highly-qualified STEM teachers working in urban school districts by providing scholarships, intensive advising, and robust peer support and mentorship. Dozens of Sherman Scholar alumni are now working in Baltimore City Public Schools.

The Shermans’ most recent gift commitment, a $1-million pledge, will enable UMBC and the Sherman STEM Teacher Scholars Program to deepen its connection to city schools through a multi-year partnership with Lakeland Elementary and Middle School in southwest Baltimore. Sherman Scholars, along with Shriver Center Peaceworkers and Choice Program caseworkers, will work with school leadership to develop school- and family-centered strategies that address student and community needs.

In appreciation of the Shermans’ generosity, and in recognition of our shared commitment to the power of education to transform lives, Academic IV will be renamed “Sherman Hall.” In the tradition of the Robert and Jane Meyerhoff Chemistry Building and Janet and Walter Sondheim Hall, signage throughout the building will be changed and donor plaques will be introduced. Work will begin over the summer, with the building officially assuming its new name at the beginning of fall 2013.

A formal dedication ceremony will be planned for the fall, and we will share that information in a follow up communication in the coming weeks.

10 full-time graduate students needed for a year of service with Ameri Corps. The students will work in high- need schools tutoring students in a 1:3 relationship.  Fellows will be paid a stipend of $20,000 a year with medical and dental benefits, along with the possibility of earning an education award.

For more information, go to Baltimore County Public Schools Website, click on our system, jobs opportunity, and support positions.

To apply, by August 9, 2013,  send resume and cover letter to bcpsfellows@gmail.com

The Department of Bicultural-Bilingual Studies in the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Texas at San Antonio seeks an assistant professor in the area of applied linguistics/TESL to begin Fall 2014, pending budgetary approval. We seek a scholar with expertise in one or more of the following areas: computer-assisted language learning, second language literacy, second language learning, language teacher education, sociolinguistics, language assessment, or other related areas.

The department offers a Ph.D. in Culture, Literacy, and Language, a MA in Teaching English as a Second Language, a MA in Bicultural-Bilingual Studies with concentrations in bilingual education and bicultural studies, a graduate certificate in TESL, and a BA in Mexican American Studies. It also provides undergraduate and graduate programs for teacher certification as well as support courses for other programs in the University.

Responsibilities include: Teach graduate and undergraduate courses, advise masters and doctoral degree students, pursue an active research agenda, and contribute to the university and community through service activities.

Required Qualifications: Doctorate in Applied Linguistics, Educational Linguistics, Language & Literacy, Education or an appropriate discipline. University-level teaching experience. Evidence of research agenda in one or more of the areas listed above. ESL/EFL teaching experience.

Preferred Qualifications: Demonstrated excellence in teaching at the undergraduate and/or graduate level, experience advising graduate students, proficiency in a language other than English, evidence of publications in one or more of the areas outlined above.

Appointment to begin Fall 2014, pending budgetary approval. Salary is competitive.

Applicants must submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, three publications or writing samples, a teaching philosophy statement, and names and contact information of three referees addressed to Dr. Wayne E. Wright, Chair, Applied Linguistics/TESL Search Committee. Applications may be submitted via the following e-mail address: Sylvia.Hernandez2@utsa.edu. A review of applications will begin October 1, 2013, and will continue until position is filled. Applicants who are selected for interviews must be able to show proof that they will be eligible and qualified to work in the United States by time of hire. UTSA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Starting up a blog is a fairly simple process these days. But what’s not so simple is figuring out what to write about and keeping the content pipeline full.

In this Quick Tip, author C.C. Chapman shares his advice on how blogging can add value to your business or personal brand and what to consider writing about.

The post Blogging for Freelancers and Businesses – Treehouse Quick Tip appeared first on Treehouse Blog.

Can an armband that controls gestures by measuring muscle activity make it as a mainstream gadget?

When it comes to gesture-control systems like Microsoft’s Kinect, some applications—like gaming—are obvious. Others—like controlling your window blinds—are less so.