Honors Seminar Proposals Sought

From University Honors Program:

Honors Seminar Proposals

Faculty are invited to submit proposals to teach University Honors seminars in 2013-14. 

The University Honors Program (UHP) comprises the top 7% of UC undergraduate students, from across colleges and disciplines. Admission is very competitive, with entering students having an average ACT score of over 31.

University Honors is committed to helping students maximize their educational opportunities at UC while discovering and pursuing their passions in life and using their gifts and talents to make meaningful contributions to society. Students are provided with exceptional learning opportunities through which they can take full advantage of their college experience and develop academically, professionally and personally. Students are challenged through honors seminars and experiential learning projects focused on:

• Community engagement
• Global studies
• Leadership
• Research and creative arts

Honors seminars are the backbone of the UHP curriculum and are critical to each student's experience and success. Therefore, faculty from across UC's colleges are engaged in teaching honors seminars. Faculty from all disciplines are invited to submit proposals!

Semester Pedagogy and StructureHonors seminars challenge and broaden the intellectual horizons of University Honors students at all levels, regardless of the disciplines in which students are majoring. Honors seminars are expected to align with one or more of the thematic areas - community engagement, global studies, leadership, and research and creative arts. Honors seminars are also expected to engage students in experiential learning, challenging students with creative projects and experiences that take learning beyond the typical classroom. Honors seminars are also expected to fulfill general education Breadth of Knowledge (BoK) requirements. Learn more about honors seminar pedagogy, content and structure.

Click here for more information on the application process.

UC Honors Program Seeks Proposals for Honors Seminars - Due Nov 13th!

Via UC News:

Honors Seminar Proposals

Faculty are invited to submit proposals to teach University Honors seminars in 2013-14.

The University Honors Program (UHP) comprises the top 7% of UC undergraduate students, from across colleges and disciplines. Admission is very competitive, with entering students having an average ACT score of over 31.

University Honors is committed to helping students maximize their educational opportunities at UC while discovering and pursuing their passions in life and using their gifts and talents to make meaningful contributions to society. Students are provided with exceptional learning opportunities through which they can take full advantage of their college experience and develop academically, professionally and personally. Students are challenged through honors seminars and experiential learning projects focused on:

• Community engagement
• Global studies
• Leadership
• Research and creative arts

Honors seminars are the backbone of the UHP curriculum and are critical to each student's experience and success. Therefore, faculty from across UC's colleges are engaged in teaching honors seminars. Faculty from all disciplines are invited to submit proposals!

Semester Pedagogy and StructureHonors seminars challenge and broaden the intellectual horizons of University Honors students at all levels, regardless of the disciplines in which students are majoring. Honors seminars are expected to align with one or more of the thematic areas - community engagement, global studies, leadership, and research and creative arts. Honors seminars are also expected to engage students in experiential learning, challenging students with creative projects and experiences that take learning beyond the typical classroom. Honors seminars are also expected to fulfill general education Breadth of Knowledge (BoK) requirements. Learn more about honors seminar pedagogy, content and structure.

FOR MORE INFO, CONTINUE ON THE HONORS SEMINAR SITE.

Student-Created Newsletter Highlights Achievements of The University Honors Program

From UC News:

Student-Created Newsletter Highlights Achievements of The University Honors Program

The newsletter includes an interview with Raj Mehta, director of the University Honors Program and the new vice provost for International Affairs.

UC Selects Mehta to Head International Office

From UC News:

UC Selects Mehta To Head International Office

A distinguished marketing professor, currently director of UC’s honors program, has been selected to lead the office responsible for University of Cincinnati international programs, services and planning.

Date: 6/28/2012 12:00:00 AM
By: Greg Hand
Phone: (513) 556-1822

   Raj Mehta has been named Vice Provost for International Affairs at the University of Cincinnati.  Mehta, a member of UC’s marketing faculty since 1990, will continue his role and responsibilities as director of UC’s University Honors program. The appointment is effective July 16.

Raj Mehta

“After much deliberation and discussion regarding the search for a new Vice Provost for International Affairs, I am convinced that the best leader for this role was not in the candidate pool but rather served on the search committee,” said Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Santa J. Ono. “Raj Mehta was tapped to chair this search because of his deep knowledge of the global context, his broad interest in advancing international programming and partnerships and his longstanding commitment to engaging faculty, staff and alumni in strengthening UC’s global identity and impact. As much as these skills and attributes made him an excellent chair, they make him the best leader to move UC International to the next level.”

Mehta earned his Ph.D. from the University of Utah after earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology and a master’s in marketing from Gujarat University. He has directed the University Honors Program since 2006.

“I am a lifelong believer, and a living example, of the benefits of international experience,” Mehta said. “As director of the University Honors Program, I helped set a goal for graduating 75 percent of our students with a study abroad experience.” says Mehta. “A global outlook is an invaluable component of our students’ educations, and an essential priority for a world-class university like UC.”

As Vice Provost, Mehta will play a critical role in the University’s plan to enhance its national standing and strengthen its contributions to the surrounding region and to society at large, Ono said. He will be responsible for overall operation of the UC International office, including oversight of UC’s international programs, services and planning. In doing so, he will work with faculty to develop curricula with strong international components, assist with recruitment of international students, and enhance institutional support for incoming students in areas such as new student orientation, language training, and assimilation programming.

“My role is to champion the importance of UC’s engagement with global cultures and to integrate UC’s diverse activities as part of an overall strategy for the University’s international presence,” Mehta said.

Enroll Now for Fall Semester! Beyond IQ: Developing & Applying Emotional Intelligence Strategies

Service learning opportunity available for fall semester

Beyond IQ: Developing and Applying Emotional Intelligence Strategies

HNRS3040

3-4 credits (students can register for 4 hours if their schedule allows)

Tuesdays 8:30 – 10:50 am and Thursdays 9:30 – 10:50 am (we’ll leave campus at 9 on Thursdays to arrive at the elementary school by 9:30)

BoK: DC, SS

Instructors: Gail Kiley, Chris Lottman, and Jen Lile

Course description:

Research indicates that Emotional Intelligence can be measured, can be developed over our life spans, and can have a significant impact on both academic success and life success and happiness in general. In this course students will:

-Learn foundational knowledge about Emotional Intelligence (e.g., history, current trends, existing measures, controversies, comparisons to IQ)

-Assess their current levels of Emotional Intelligence and develop and implement specific plans for growth and progress during the semester and beyond

-Learn and actively use five key emotional literacy skills

-Develop leadership capabilities and the skills inherent in engaging with others

-Teach Emotional Intelligence skills and competencies to Cincinnati Public School students

*Important notes: Beginning the third week of the semester, this class will meet once each week at the elementary school. We will arrange transportation for everyone--a car is not required. Additionally, all students in the class will need to undergo a paper background check in order to volunteer at the public school. The instructors will provide more detail after registration.

Eligibility requirements: Students must have a minimum cumulative University GPA of 3.4. This class is open to all majors and all years.

To receive permission to register, please contact Jen Lile at jen.lile@uc.edu or 513-556-1003.

RAPP Community Connections

It's been a quiet week here on the RAPP blog, but not for lack of activity on campus.  Rather, RAPP and its staff/blog team have been a busy bunch.  As a chance to highlight some of the work we do, here's an overview of the community connections we've been involved in this week:

• Monday & Wednesday morning through early afternoon, RAPP partnered with the LGBTQ Center to provide campus diversity workshops to first year students in the Carl H. Lindner College of Business. Social Justice League member Bobby Filbin, LGBTQ Center graduate assistant B Carbonara, and Rebecca connected with almost 350 students in eight fifty-minute workshops.
• Monday evening, RAPP Public Ally Marjorie Bledsoe and RAPPORT Intern DeVorah YisraEL facilitated a RAPPORT workshop on multiple intelligences & planning inclusive learning experiences.  A dozen people came out to explore our ways of learning and sharing knowledge as well as how to include all learners in educational experiences.
• On Tuesday, Rebecca connected with one of the nearly one hundred First Year Experience Learning Communities for an outreach session.  Each year we work with at least a dozen first year learning communities, exploring campus diversity, self-awareness, and intercultural communication.
• Tuesday evening, we hosted one of our newer activities for RAPP XXVII Tuesday - between session conference calls.  The group asked to try phone check-ins between meetings, so we've set up multiple conference call sessions this quarter.
• In exploration of expanding our partnership with Emerging Ethnic Leaders, Rebecca worked with the advisor for EEL to begin sketching out a formal relationship between our programs for some exciting developments RAPP has in the works (stay tuned here for how to be involved in that!).
• International Education Week is a university-wide program spearheaded by UC International.  SALD participates annually in this great series of events that help our students build global citizenship.  RAPP staff and other SALD staff participated in the kick-off planning meeting for the fall 2012 program.
• As a Student Life staff member and UC alumna herself, Rebecca commits time to supporting some of our major undergraduate scholarships.  This week involved much work with the selection process for the Darwin T. Turner Scholars Program as well as preparing and presenting a Student Life session for competitors in the Cincinnatus Scholarship Program.  The latter program involved highlighting Student Life's countless connections with the University Honors Program.  RAPP XXV member Alyssa Roberts helped present about her leadership journey, including RAPP's contribution to it.
• Our campus community has experienced several racial incidents lately, some public and some not.  While RAPP no longer coordinates the Racial Incident Team (which we did in the late 1980s through mid-1990s), our staff do provide listening ears and responsive educational programming.  Work in this area has been underway this week, as well.

All of this came directly after Rebecca's return from the Social Justice Training Institute 2 & Celebration in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Marjorie's return from 2012 Tri-State Diversity Conference: Diverse Communities - Common Unity in the Cincinnati Airport Marriot.

Thanks to all the folks who keep RAPP hopping and deeply connected with our community in this way!

Social Justice League member Bobby Filbin helped present to nearly 350 College of Business students this week!

Mr. Bearcat Award Seeking Nominations - Deadline Feb 24th!

The Mr. Bearcat Award honors the outstanding graduating senior man who has achieved academic success, demonstrated leadership in diverse settings, and has made a significant contribution to the University of Cincinnati, all while displaying “Bearcat spirit”.

Candidates may be nominated by a student, university faculty or staff, or student organization. Nomination materials can be printed from: http://www.uc.edu/content/dam/uc/sald/docs/The%202012%20Mr.%20Bearcat%20Award.pdf

Application items must be submitted no later than Friday, Feb. 24, by 5 p.m..

Finalists and the award winner will be introduced at the 2012 All-University Recognition Ceremony which will take place at 4 p.m., Sunday, May 6, in the Great Hall of Tangeman University Center (TUC).

Submit all questions and items for consideration to Russell Best, russell.best@uc.edu 513-556-0910 (fax 513-556-6077), Student Activities & Leadership Development ML 0136, 455 Steger Student Life Center.

Nominations Sought for the Presidential Leadership Medal of Excellence

From Student Affairs & Services:

Presidential Leadership Medal of Excellence

About the Award

Established in 2002, the Presidential Leadership Medal of Excellence is a prestigious honor awarded by the University President to exceptional graduating students who best exemplify scholarship, leadership, character, service and the ideals of the University of Cincinnati. 


Selection Criteria

To be considered for this year's honor, students must meet the following criteria:

1. Graduation.   Eligibility for graduation from a baccalaureate degree program in August of the previous academic year, or December, March or June of the current academic year.
2. Academic Learning & Discovery.  The nominee has a cumulative University grade point average of 3.2 or better.  S/he also exhibits evidence of high academic excellence (e.g., participation in research and/or the creative arts) and achievement. 
   Examples of high academic achievement may include acceptance to prestigious graduate programs, presentations at professional association annual meetings, featured publications in publications that have a regional and/or inter/national circulation, or applications to inter/nationally competitive fellowships and scholarships such as the Goldwater.
3. Significant Leadership Contribution.  The nominee illustrates innovation, initiative, independence, a positive peer impact, and contributions to a group for sustainability and growth within their organizational involvement.
   Examples include significant leadership in UC co-curricular activities (e.g., advocacy, governance, honorary, service, social or athletic organizations) and is recognized for their organizational contributions at the regional, state, and/or inter/national organizational level.
4. Community Participation.   The nominee currently participates and gives back to the University and the community.
   Examples include significant participation in community activities, contribution to the community through the creation and/or enhancement of an organization/agency, or application to Teach For America, Americorps, the Truman Scholarship program, etc.
5. Diversity and Global Engagement.  The nominee demonstrates support for diversity and global engagement. 
   Examples could include an application to the Peace Corps, the Foreign Service, the Kiva Fellows Program, a Gilman International Scholarship, or the Fulbright Fellowship Program.
6. Potential for future success and achievement.   The nominee’s current success is externally validated through local, state, regional, and/or inter/national recognition. 
   This also includes application to the Rhodes, Marshall, Gates-Cambridge, and/or Mitchell Scholarships.

The Application Packet

Click here to download a copy of the 2012 application. A complete nominee application packet includes the following:

1. Applicant’s basic information page (available in the application packet)
2. A current resume
3. An essay of no more than four typed, double-spaced pages, explaining, in terms of the criteria, why you think you should be named a recipient of this award and reflecting on your involvement illustrating innovation, initiative, independence, a positive peer impact, and contributions to a group for sustainability and growth
4. A completed nomination form and corresponding letter of recommendation from a faculty, staff or administrative member of the University of Cincinnati
5. An additional nomination form and corresponding letter of recommendation from a faculty, staff or administrative member of the University of Cincinnati.  (If the first nomination is by a faculty member, the second letter should be from a member of the UC staff or administration and vice-versa.)

Additional letters of support are permitted but do not guarantee an applicant’s advancement for consideration.  Special binding is not necessary.  Applications will not be returned.

Applicants must submit a completed application by
12:00 PM on Friday, February 10, 2012
to
Student Affairs and Services
600 University Pavilion
or by e-mail to Mitchel.Livingston@uc.edu

All applicants must also be available for an interview with the selection committee in late March or early April 2012.  However, interviews will only be granted to award finalists.

Clarifying questions or concerns about the application process may be directed to Jessica King at Jessica.King@uc.edu or 513-556-6274.

Interdisciplinary Seminar in Tanzania - Spring Quarter 2012!

From UC International:

Humanitarianism: Design Thinking Across Disciplines – Spring quarter seminar with study tour to Tanzania

In this honors seminar, students from across colleges and disciplines will combine research into humanitarianism, social responsibility and the principles of design thinking into the development of a project that will benefit a non-profit organization doing work in impoverished communities in rural Tanzania.

In spring 2012, we will explore how the fields such as engineering, nursing, medicine, education, business, liberal arts, design and more are all critical in the development of effective and inspiring humanitarian design projects. Together, we will explore the social, cultural and technological issues inherent in the field of humanitarian design and work collaboratively to create and implement projects that will have a positive impact on communities in need. The course culminates in a required trip to Tanzania immediately following spring quarter 2012.

Application required. Deadline – January 9, 2012. Although this program is facilitated by University Honors, UC undergraduates who are not in the UHP are welcome and encouraged to apply, provided the student has a cumulative university GPA of 3.4 or above (graduate students and alumni not eligible).

For more information please visit: http://www.uc.edu/honors/academics/travel/InternationalAfrica.html

Japanese Language & Culture Experience - Fall Semester 2012

From UC International:

Japanese Language and Culture Experience

Fall semester 2012 study abroad in Japan, taking place two-weeks prior to the beginning of fall semester classes.

This honors seminar and study abroad experience is designed to give students basic Japanese language skills and introduce them to the cultural and professional environment of Japan.  In today’s global economy, it is essential for young professionals to understand the impact of cultural differences on business and industry.  The course will take place in over a two-week period.  It will consist of 36 hours of language instruction as well as daily site visits to companies and historical and cultural sites in Japan.

The University of Cincinnati has offered an International Co-op Program (ICP) in since the mid-1990’s.  Through this program students complete over 300 hours of Japanese instruction followed by a capstone six-month co-op experience in Japan.  The decision to participate in the ICP is a tremendous investment with a variety of “unknowns”.  This study tour program is designed to give co-op students a small taste of the Japanese language as well as ’s history and culture in a protected environment.  Students will also have the opportunity to visit ICP employers and meet with ICP students currently co-oping in Japan.

For many students, this study tour will be their first exposure to a foreign country.  After this first exposure, some may decide to pursue a longer study abroad or co-op in , or another location, later in their studies. 

Application required. Deadline – January 2, 2012.  Although this program is facilitated by University Honors, UC undergraduates who are not in the UHP are welcome and encouraged to apply, provided the student has a cumulative university GPA of 3.4 or above (graduate students and alumni not eligible).

Learn more at http://www.uc.edu/honors/academics/travel/japan.html. 

RAPPers at LeaderShape This Week!

The blog will be a little quiet this week not only because of the quieter campus on winter break, but because Rebecca will be joining 55 University Honors Program students at LeaderShape.  Included in these students are two RAPP XXVII members:  Angelo C & Adam V!


LeaderShape's mission is "to transform the world by increasing the number of people who lead with integrity^TM and a healthy disregard for the impossible."  This annual campus-based institute will challenge participants to develop a vision based in their values and identify how to use that to achieve lasting, positive change.


The UC group will be at Higher Ground Conference & Retreat Center this Saturday through Thursday for the institute.  Please wish us well in the six long, intense days of the institute!

LeaderShape Open to Non-Honors Students with 3.4 GPA

From the University Honors Program:

Attention UC students (that aren’t in the University Honors Program and have a GPA of 3.4 or higher). Consider applying for LeaderShape Institute.

The UC LeaderShapeInstitute

Are you ready to create a personal vision and learn to lead with integrity?

At the LeaderShape Institute, you’ll spend six days creating a comprehensive and powerful vision for the future that defines a bold change for your community, group, cause, or organization. As you work through this vision, you’ll have an opportunity to engage in reflection, planning, one-on-one interactions, small group feedback, and large group learning.

The LeaderShape Institute environment resembles a laboratory more than a formal classroom. You’re encouraged to practice new skills, give and receive feedback from peers and faculty, and risk new behaviors in a safe, supportive atmosphere. You’ll leave with a healthy disregard for the impossible and the ability to produce extraordinary results within your community!

The University Honors Program is pleased to present this amazing opportunity for up to 60 students December 10-15, 2011, at Higher Ground Conference andRetreat Center in West Harrison, IN.

Registration Information
The cost to participate is $200, which covers food, transportation, lodging and supplies.  Payment is not required with your online registration. 

http://www.uc.edu/honors/activities/leadershape.html

Many Welcomes - A List of Campus Welcome Events

It's Welcome Week time at UC!  The campus is already abuzz with dozens of welcome events each day, which only pick up as we head toward the first day of classes (Wednesday, September 21st).


You can check out the full Welcome Week schedule on-line.  


In the meantime, here's a "short" list of recommended campus welcome activities:


New Student Convocation - Sunday, September 18th, 2:00PM
Fifth Third Arena, Shoemaker Center (Doors open at 12:30 p.m. for parents and guests)
OFFICIAL INDUCTION CEREMONY FOR ALL NEW STUDENTS
President Gregory H. Williams will welcome family and friends to this official new student induction ceremony.


Fall Community Service Fair - Monday, September 19th, 10:30AM-1PM
Tangeman University Center, Great Hall & Lobby, Level 4 & Atrium, Level 3
Are you interested in getting involved in your community? What about learning the ways non profits could mobilize your talents and skills? Do you have required service hours for a scholarship or want to get your floor, fraternity, or student group involved with service projects? This is the place to be! The Fall Community Service Fair is part of the Cincinnatus Welcome and Kick-off and will be held in the TUC Atrium, Great Hall and Lobby areas. Student service groups and non-profit representatives will be present to engage you and plug you into ways to serve! This is an open event for any UC community member. For questions, contact the Center for Community Engagement at community.engagement@uc.edu or 513-556-1559.
Sponsored by Center for Community Engagement


RAPP Info Table - Monday, September 19th, 12PM-2PM
TUC Plaza
Stop by and help promote RAPP to the campus!  We'll be giving out applications and pens.


University Honors Open House - Monday, September 19th, 1PM-4PM
705 Swift Hall
Welcome back to a new school year! Drop by the honors suite at any time between 1-4 p.m. to mix and mingle with staff and students. Cookies and drinks will be available.


College Day - Tuesday, September 20th, all day
Various locations
These events are mandatory for incoming new students.  RAPP will have an info table at the McMicken Welcome Day Festival!


Career Development Center (CDC) says Welcome Week to UC! - Wednesday, September 21st, 10AM-1PM
Tangeman University Center Plaza
Free Calendar!
CDC Welcomes incoming Freshmen and  graduationg Seniors with back to school treats and tips. Meet the CDC Career Coach that is assigned to your college/major out on the TUC Plaza from 10am - 1pm and get a FREE CDC calendar!.
Sponsored by Career Development Center (CDC)



RAPP Info Table - Tuesday, September 21th, 12PM-2PM
TUC Plaza
Stop by and help promote RAPP to the campus!  We'll be giving out applications and pens.



Bienvenidos Hispanic Student Welcome - Thursday, September 22nd, 5PM-7PM
Tangeman University Center, Mick and Macks Cafe
Refreshments!Hispanic Student Welcome is a Welcome Week program dedicated to informing incoming and current Latino students about the services and student organizations dedicated to Latino culture.
Sponsored by Ethnic Programs and Services (EPS)


Asian Student Welcome - Friday, September 23rd, 5PM-7PM
Tangeman University Center, Great HallAsian Student Welcome is a Welcome Week program dedicated to introducing incoming and current undergraduates to the student organizations and services dedicated to celebrating Asian culture.
Sponsored by Ethnic Programs and Services (EPS)


Bearcats Live! - Friday, September 23rd, 7PM
Campus Green and Sigma Sigma Commons
The annual Bearcats Live! Fall concert features headliner Guster and several local opening acts!
Sponsored by Bearcats Live!


AKWAABA: Black Student Welcome - Sunday, September 25th, 4PM-7PM
Tangeman University Center, Great HallEvery year the Office of Ethnic Rpograms and Services and the African American Cultural & Resource Center welcomes new incoming Black students to the University. The program is designed to be informative, cultural & fun for all who attend. Akwaaba will introduce first-year and returning students to campus services, student organizations, and other resources. The ultimate goal is to keep students connected throughout the academic year to the AACRC and EPS. This is a must-attend event of Welcome Week!
Sponsored by African American Cultural and Resource Center (AACRC)


RAPP T-Shirt Day - Monday, September 26th, all day!
Wherever you are!
Show your RAPP pride by wearing your RAPP shirt, polo, button or other gear!


Health & Wellness and Student Activities Fair - Wednesday, October 5th, 11AM-2PM
McMicken Commons
Connect with a wide variety of local health & wellness resources as well as with dozens of actives student groups!
Sponsored by Student Wellness Center and Student Activities Board


UC LGBTQ Meet and Greet - Wednesday, October 5th, 4PM-6PM
6th Floor of Steger Student Life Center
This is an opportunity for new students to meet other LGBTQ students,
faculty, staff and allies on campus.
Your attendance is important in helping us increase visibility through support and advocacy,and create a safer, more just learning and social environment for all.
The program will start at approximately 4:30 pm; light appetizers will be
provided.
Please RSVP by Friday September 30, 2011 to B. Carbonara
at UC.LGBTQ.Center@gmail.com or (513) 556– 4329.
Sponsored by the UC LGBTQ Center


Camp BearCats - October 8-9
YMCA Camp KernWe are looking for rising leaders to participate in Camp Bearcat, a Leadership Institute for first year students. This leadership opportunity focuses on four pillars: Connections, Academics, Traditions, and Service and serves to assist first-year students with acclimating to campus, understanding the importance of co-curricular involvment and instilling UC pride and tradition. At the Institute you will: Connect with Upperclassmen, Network with Fellow First year Students and Upperclassmen, Listen to Dynamic Speakers, and Participate in Enriching Leadership Development Activities. To register online visit www.uc.edu/sald/leadership.
Sponsored by Student Activities and Leadership Development & Omicron Delta Kappa

Honors Welcome Retreat Panel

The University Honors Program annual Welcome Retreat for new first-year Honors students was Thursday-Friday, September 15-16, at Higher Ground Conference and Retreat Center.

On the second day of the retreat, the staff put together an Honors Panel which iss an opportunity for first-year students to interact with Honors faculty, friends of the University Honors Program, and upper-class Honors students.

Rebecca got to represent RAPP and Student Activities and Leadership Development on an Honors Panel this year!

RAPP is recognized as an experiential learning program through Honors.  Rebecca is an Honors alumna and was grateful to serve on the faculty of the UC LeaderShape Institute through Honors.

Panelists posed for a group picture before heading off to meet the students!

Study in Ghana - December 2011

From UC International:

Study in Ghana – Course offered 11A; visit Ghana in December!

Women, Population and Development - fall 2011 honors seminar with study tour to Ghana.
15AFST300H, 11A, Wednesdays, 3:00-5:20pm; Instructor – Dr. Carolette Norwood

This seminar will meet weekly during fall quarter and culminate in a required study tour to Ghana in December. The seminar will raise critical questions about western assumptions of the perils of population expansion in developing societies. In doing so, we will explore the political and economic underpinnings of population policies and their consequences for women in poor countries. It will largely focus on women and developing societies with particular emphasis on Africa. It will provide a historical overview of theories that link population to development and/or poverty. We will begin the course with theories of development and/or underdevelopment and conclude with discussions of current theoretical applications that explicitly integrate women, population and development into a single dialogue.

The seminar will also expose students to the practice of development by giving them a real life perspective on development issues facing women in developing countries. In doing so, we will engage in a study tour to Accra, Ghana in December 2011 to visit with and learn about the work and research of NGOs in this field. While in Ghana, the group will likely work with the Ark Foundation. Participation in the study tour is required.

Students who are not in the University Honors Program are welcome to participate! Students must have a cumulative university GPA of 3.4 or above and submit a successful application. All participants will be provided with a $1000 grant to offset costs.

Application required. Learn more about the course, costs, and access the application at http://www.uc.edu/honors/academics/travel/ghana.html.

RAPP Connections with LeaderShape

The University Honors Program annually hosts the prestigious LeaderShape leadership training institute.  LeaderShape's mission is "to transform the world by increasing the number of people who lead with integrity^TM and a healthy disregard for the impossible."

This year's institute is being held December 11th through 16th at Higher Ground (also home to annual Honors Retreats, Camp Bearcats, and at least one RAPP retreat in the past).

Many RAPPers throughout the years have participated in LeaderShape at UC. 

While I was a UC student in the late 1990s I participated in LeaderShape.  There I met RAPP XIV member Moksha Southall while she was a student leader at the institute and a RAPPmate of hers participated in
LeaderShape as well that year.  I'm sure many others went through during those years as well!

Last year, RAPP XXV member Tyler T participated. 

This year, RAPP XXVI members Allison F, Matt M, Sara K are participating.  I have the honor of working with group as a cluster facilitator.

LeaderShape is a very intensive institute - please send positive thoughts the group's way!

An Honorable Connection

When I came to UC I participated in the University Honors Program (though it had a different name then). The program gave me not only a challenging courseload, but great opportunities for leadership development and community service.


Several Honors students have been strong members of RAPP in the years I've been with it. I recently connected with the Honors Program staff and we now have an exciting partnership!


Students in the Honors Program can now receive recognition for their participation in RAPP as one of the six honors experiences they have to complete to be a recognized graduate of the progam. Honors is a program where all of their activities are committed to demonstrating community engagement, global studies, leadership, research and creative arts - looking at those, to me, demonstrates why our connection makes sense.


Connections like these are, I think, a great reflection on the new curriculum of RAPP and will help us down the long path to having a credit-bearing option. If you are involved in or know of other academic programs we could collaborate with, please don't hesitate to contact me!

(pic - Erin A, an Honors student who was in RAPP XXIV)
-Rebecca