CLAS holds Sabbatical Showcase

Nearly 40 faculty members from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences showcased their research and creative projects during a Sabbatical Showcase April 1 in the Kirkhof Center.

The event allows engagement and conversation about exciting new work by colleagues from the many diverse areas within the college. Among the presenters were William Levitan, of Classics, who explored ancient Greek musical practice; Peimin Ni, of Philosophy, whose new translation of Confucius’ Analects provides extensive indexes and annotations; and Vandana Pednekar-Magal, partnering with Keith Oppenheim, both of the School of Communications, whose documentary film explores media consumption and usage in transnational/diasporic communities.

Three faculty members were honored with 2014 CLAS Service Awards. Mark Staves, professor of cell and molecular biology, received the Annual Faculty Service Award; Gary Stark, professor of history and associate dean of CLAS faculty, received the Lifetime Faculty Service Award; and Jo Ann Litton, senior academic advisor, received the Administrative and Professional Service Award.

Dean Frederick Antczak’s formal remarks at the event focused on a theme of gratitude, noting the 10th anniversary of the college and his position as dean, and how fortunate they all are to be working at Grand Valley.

“I have always wanted Grand Valley to be the kind of place where every person could soar just as high as their interests and abilities allow,” said Antczak. “Each one of you has contributed to advancing something larger than yourself, your department, your students and your discipline.”