2013 Stories

Boston Globe Critic's Pick Lists Current Exhibition at the Davis

The Boston Globe Critic's Pick encourages fans of the visual arts to visit the Davis to see Eija-Liisa Ahtila: Olentoja (Creatures), which runs through January 5, 2014.

Twelve New Books Published by Wellesley Faculty and Staff

The 2013 titles from Wellesley writers reflect the breadth and scope of investigation and imagination found on campus.

Madeleine Albright Heads to Wellesley to Show 40 Young Women How to Change the World

The 2014 Albright Institute Wintersession Program runs January 6-24. Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright '59 and this year's Distinguished Visiting Professor, former EPA Administrator Carol Browner, will give a free, public lecture on Wednesday, January 22 at 4 p.m.

Meet Wellesley's First MasterCard Foundation Scholars

As their first semester of college comes to a close, Wellesley’s first Mastercard Foundation Scholars, Martha Aywa ’17 and Refilwe Kotane ’17, reflect on their Wellesley experience so far.

Professor James Noggle Wins $50,000 from NEH

A National Endowment for the Humanities grant will support work by Professor of English James Noggle as he researches the subject of nonconsciousness in 18th-century British literature.

Hour of Code Comes to Wellesley

Ten million new computer programmers is the goal of the ambitious Hour of Code campaign, and Wellesley computer science students and faculty are doing their part on campus December 11-13.

Wellesley Remembers and Honors Mandela's Legacy

The Wellesley community joins in spirit with people around the world in remembering Mandela today, and hosts a memorial celebration on campus on December 12, 2013.

Wellesley Professor Jonathan Imber "On Teaching Conservatism"

Jonathan Imber, Jean Glasscock Professor of Sociology, gave a keynote address last month, “On Teaching Conservatism.” Imber spoke about courses he teaches at Wellesley and the importance of respect for conservative ideals in the academic community.

Hillary Clinton '69 and Diane Sawyer '67 Reminisce about Time at Wellesley

Hillary Clinton '69 and Diane Sawyer '67 recalled their Wellesley days at the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation’s recent 25th-anniversary gala, reported the New York Post's Page Six.

Ukraine: Is this a Revolution?

Professor Serhii Plokhii, Director of Harvard’s Ukrainian Research Institute, and Mykhailo S. Hrushevs'kyi, Professor of Ukrainian History at Harvard, discuss the events unfolding in Ukraine. The lecture, which will take place on Wednesday, December 4 at 7:30 in the Library Lecture Room, is free and open to the public.

Wellesley Professor and Poet Wins Human Rights Award

Marjorie Agosín, Luella LaMer Slaner Professor in Latin American Studies and Professor of Spanish, has won the Dr. Fritz Redlich Global Mental Health and Human Rights Award, given by Harvard's Global Mental Health Trauma and Recovery Program.

Happy Thanksgiving from Wellesley

As students take a last break and a deep breath before December’s acceleration to the end of Fall semester, we pause to read the latest alumnae magazine, share our gratitude for Wellesley's vibrant community, and wish everyone a wonderful holiday.

Religion Professor's Panel Discussion Explores "The State of Racism in America"

On November 16, faith leaders and educators gathered at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Cathedral in Jackson, Mississippi, for “Fifty Years Later: The State of Racism in America.” Wellesley professor, The Rev. Dr. James Kodera, Professor of Religion, was among the conference presenters.

Wellesley Thought Leaders Weigh In on Anniversary of JFK Assassination

Fifty years after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, a fascination with the man remains, along with questions about what happened and what could have been. Wellesley voices add to reflections in the media.

Craig Murphy Explores Significance of Kathryn Davis Dissertation

M. Margaret Ball Professor of International Relations and Professor of Political Science Craig Murphy gives a talk on The Soviets at Geneva, the pioneering Ph.D. thesis of one of Wellesley’s most beloved alumnae.

Wellesley Team Investigates Altmetrics to Track Pedagogical Innovation

Measuring the influence of research in the fluid digital landscape calls for a break from traditional methods. A group of Wellesley faculty and staff are leading the way in developing alternative metrics within the field of pedagogical innovation.

Paarlberg on Harvest Public Media: GMO debate influences Africa

Harvest Public Media, a reporting collaboration focused on issues of food, fuel and field, spoke with Robert Paarlberg, Betty Freyhof Johnson ’44 Professor of Political Science and researcher on food and agricultural policy, about the ongoing debate over the use of genetically modified crops for human food and its impact in Africa.

Boston.com Explores Wellesley 2025

Boston.com spoke with Andrew Shennan, Dean and Provost of the College, about Wellesley 2025, a multiyear project to renew and reinvigorate Wellesley’s iconic and essential campus buildings, and the early stages of drafting the campus-wide development plan.

Stettner Political Science Library Dedicated

On November 12, Wellesley community members gathered to dedicate the Edward A. Stettner Political Science Library in Pendleton East. Named for the late Edward Stettner, the space honors a beloved professor emeritus and his 42-year career at Wellesley.

Meet the 2013-2014 Daniels Fellows

Seniors Nora Mishanec, Rosa Guzman,  Echo Yue, and Ava Bramson each have the opportunity to pursue a “dream project” this year, thanks to the Pamela Daniels ‘59 Fellowship.

Press Release: International Body Music Festival Artists Visit Wellesley

The International Body Music Festival celebrates contemporary and traditional body music and, for the first time, audiences in New England can experience this unique musical and dance experience when artists from the Festival visit Wellesley College November 16 -20.

Boston Globe Visits Book Release Party for Uzuri M. Wilkerson '05

The Boston Globe visits the book release party for Sour, the second book in the Boston-based vampire series by Uzuri M. Wilkerson '05.

New book by the late, great Nora Ephron '62 reviewed for NPR

Advice from the commencement address given by Nora Ephron '62 in 1996 is included in her new book, "The Most of Nora Ephron" (Knopf), which was published his year by her estate. Author Meg Wolitzer reviews the book for NPR.

NYC First Lady Chirlane McCray '76 Aims to Make City More Equitable

Poet, speechwriter, and activist Chirlane McCray ’76 becomes New York City’s next first lady with the election of her husband Bill de Blasio as mayor. The former English major credits Wellesley with developing her analytic thinking and leadership skills.

Acclaimed Dancers Bring New Work to Nontraditional Spaces at Wellesley

Last week, Rashaun Mitchell and Silas Riener with New York Times writer Claudia La Rocco brought a new work to Wellesley. Sponsored by the Newhouse Center, Way In was performed in Tishman Commons with a surprise preview in the Science Center.

Wellesley Fall Sports Wrap-Up

NEWMAC Champs Blue field hockey is ranked #13 in the nation; Wellesley crew rocked the Head of the Charles and won Seven Sisters Championships; cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, and volleyball round out the fall season with more achievements and milestones.

Wellesley's Dean of Admission and Financial Aid Talks with Boston Globe

Jennifer Desjarlais, dean of admission and financial aid, shared her thoughts with the Boston Globe on what makes a great personal essay on a college application. 

Tanner Conference Fills Campus on October 29

Tanner 2013 provides a forum for students and alumnae to reflect upon, analyze, and share their off-campus experiences with the College community.

Leadership Development a Priority at Wellesley

Throughout the academic year, members of Wellesley’s student body, faculty, and staff engage in personal development and leadership training, learning in diverse ways how to more effectively make a difference on campus, and in the world.

Recent Coverage of Wellesley and PKU Professor Xia Yeliang

Over 200 articles discussing Wellesley and covering the matter of PKU economics Professor Xia Yeliang have been published since September 11, 2013, when on an open letter was sent by Wellesley faculty to Peking University. These media highlights represent key news and editorial coverage.

Wellesley Celebrates International Education Week

IEW, a joint Department of State and Education initiative to promote readiness for a global environment, comes alive at Wellesley with language boot camps, study abroad advising sessions, events with international faculty and scholars, and much more.

Biological Anthropologist Adam Van Arsdale Explains Dmanisi 5 Skull Significance

Many news outlets tapped Assistant Professor of Archaeology Adam Van Arsdale's expertise recently to explain the importance of a fossil skull from the nation of Georgia, where his research is focused.

WCW Researchers Share Findings in Fall Series

On October 17, visiting scholar Beatrice Achieng Nas presents “Women and Africa: Where Is the Wasted Potential?” as part of the Wellesley Centers for Women’s semester-long program of lunchtime seminars and discussion of the latest research on gender, women, and children.

Critically Acclaimed Director Ang Lee Visits Wellesley College, October 26

Internationally renowned film director Ang Lee and his long-time collaborator screenwriter and CEO of Focus Features, James Schamus, will visit Wellesley College on October 26 for a free public talk.

Wellesley Celebrates the International Day of the Girl Child

Friday, October 11 marked the second annual International Day of the Girl. Rocio Ortega ’16, a national Youth Champion for the United Nations Foundation’s Girl Up campaign, is working to bring awareness of the campaign to campus this year.

Rafael Moneo Helps Davis Museum Celebrate 20 Years

Rafael Moneo, the architect of the extraordinary building that houses Wellesley’s art museum, visits the Davis on October 9 and will deliver a gallery talk in the museum at 12:30 p.m.

Professor's Dating Study in The Chicago Tribune

Who pays for dates? A study co-authored by Wellesley Professor Rosanna Hertz continues to make headlines. Hertz was interviewed for an article that recently appeared in the Chicago Tribune.

Boston Globe Interviews Nora Hussey; Actors from the London Stage Present Othello

Wellesley asserts the influence of theater—in action (on stage) and philosophically (in print). Actors from the London Stage present Shakespeare's Othello at Wellesley and Nora Hussey talks to the Boston Globe about theater's role.

Wellesley Leads Small College Contributors to Teach for America Corps

This school year, 20 members of Wellesley’s Class of 2013 are standing in front of the classroom for the first time as teachers with the Teach for America (TFA) corps.

Chicago Federal Reserve Bank President Speaks at Wellesley

Charles Evans' Goldman Lecture, "A Perspective on Monetary Policy," will be given on October 2 at 8 p.m. at Tishman Commons.

Wellesley Engages in Diversity Dialogue—on Foot

Converge: an Intercultural Walk guides community members on a visit to key multifaith and multicultural sites on campus, letting them walk the walk while they talk the talk about diversity at Wellesley.

Wilson Lecture 2013: Save the Children CEO Carolyn Miles

Carolyn S. Miles, president and CEO of Save the Children, presents the 2013 Wilson Lecture, Our Best Bet: How Investing in Children Can Change the World, on Tuesday, October 8, 2013 at 8 p.m. The lecture is free and open to the public.

Wellesley Night Lights Unites Students, Town, Merchants

The second annual Wellesley Night Lights takes place September 26, with Wellesley Square merchants staying open late, offering specials (and refreshments) to students, and Wellesley singers and dancers performing outdoors.

Fall 2013 Distinguished Writers Series Opens

The Susan and Donald Newhouse Center for the Humanities Distinguished Writers Series kicks off on September 24 with a reading by poets Yusef Komunyakaa and Bill Tremblay.

Sukkot Celebration Open to All at Wellesley

This week, Wellesley’s Jewish community celebrates the holiday of Sukkot, and invites the entire College community to join in the spirit of thanksgiving, remembrance, and festivities that is the hallmark of this Jewish holiday.

Press Shares News of My inTuition, Wellesley's Quick College Cost Estimator

New York Times, Associated Press, and Chronicle of Higher Education covered the September 18 release of Wellesley's new college cost estimation tool that promises to revolutionize the "college-shopping" process for thousands of prospective students.

My inTuition: Wellesley’s Quick College Cost Estimator Gives Users a Quick and Realistic Estimate of Their College Cost

A new tool developed by Wellesley Economist Phillip B. Levine promises to be a game-changer in the higher education marketplace.

Wellesley Professor Honored for 44+ Years Service

Wellesley President H. Kim Bottomly led the College community in honoring Nellie Zuckerman Cohen and Anne Cohen Heller Professor of Health Sciences and Professor of Chemistry Nancy Harrison Kolodny '64 at a retirement party on September 12.

Clothing Design Firm Launched by Alums Wins Acclaim

For Moriah Carlson '96 and Alice Wu '96, the world of fashion has unexpectedly become their world as they create quirky, elegant, and sustainable clothing for forward-thinking women.

Wellesley Art Professor Publishes Historical Survey of Mexican Art

Senior Lecturer in Art James Oles has published Art and Architecture in Mexico, a new interpretive history of Mexican art from the Spanish Conquest to the 21st century, described as the most comprehensive introduction to the subject in 50 years.

Alumna Makes Rare Wildlife Sighting in Russia

This summer, biologist Mimi Kessler ’01 became one of the first women to see a snow leopard in the Altai Mountains of southern Siberia. There are believed to be only 30 or 40 snow leopards in the region and only 20 people have reported seeing one before, all of them men.

Professors Paul Wink and Jonathan Cheek Cited in Scientific American

The Maladaptive Covert Narcissism Scale, developed by Wellesley professors with student and alumnae researchers, was recently presented at the Association for Research in Personality conference, and cited in Scientific American.

2013-2014 Academic Year Begins at Wellesley College

A sunny day greeted the Wellesley community for the start of the academic year on September 3, 2013.  The first day of classes concludes, per Wellesley tradition, with Convocation in Diana Chapman Walsh Alumnae Hall.

Orgs Fair 2013: Newly Constituted Student Organization

The Orgs Fair is scheduled for September 11. This year, five organizations will be celebrating their new status as constituted student orgs: Chamber Music Society, Neuroscience Club, Phocus, The Globalist and WCTV.

College Government Gavel Turns 100

The 2013-2014 College Government President, Joy Das ‘14, is the 100th owner of the College Government gavel. The gavel was presented to the College Government Association in March 1914 following the burning of College Hall and has since been passed down from president to president.

Noted Chinese Academic Visits Wellesley

Described as a leading classical liberal economist in China, David Yeliang Xia met with professors Thomas Cushman, Susan Reverby, and others, holding a wide-ranging conversation on topics from his personal bio to his dissident actions to his broadest hopes for China.

Meet Wellesley’s Class of 2017

The 597 members of Wellesley's newest class—from 43 states plus D.C. and from 23 different countries—will begin to get to know one another this week as they move into residence halls, participate in Orientation activities, and prepare for their first day of classes on September 3.

Class of 2013 Brings Its Talents to the World

As we prepare to welcome all members of Wellesley’s Class of 2017 to campus next week, we check in with some recent graduates of the last “green class” and find out what they are up to now.

Wellesley Students and Faculty Pursue Research in Siberia

Students from Lake Baikal: The Soul of Siberia, a joint Environmental Studies/Russian Area Studies course, traveled to Bol'shie Koty with Professor of Russian Thomas Hodge to join Professor of Biological Sciences Marianne Moore at her Biostation to collect and analyze data.

Wellesley Senior Attempts English Channel Swim

On the weekend of August 17-18, 2013, weather and tides determining the exact time, Wellesley Blue swimmer Gabriela "Ika" Kovacikova '14 will take on the 21-mile swim from England to France.

Study by Wellesley's Rosanna Hertz Reveals New Thinking on Social Conventions

The date is over and the check arrives; who pays? A new study co-authored by Rosanna Hertz examines men's and women's approaches to convention, theory, and practice in dating finances.

Wellesley Rower Attends Selective National Team Development Camp

Becca Kimball '14 talked to Boston.com—and us—about the experience of being invited to and attending USRowing's month-long "pre-elite" camp that culminated August 11 at the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta in Ontario.

Wellesley CIO Talks MOOCs on NECN

In English now: Chief Information Officer and Associate Dean of WellesleyX Ravi Ravishanker appeared on New England Cable News' CEO Corner, along with the CEO of EdX, to speak of the goals and potential of massively open online courses.

Wellesley Launches Interactive Online Viewbook

The Wellesley College Admission Office is excited to debut the digital version of The Wellesley 100—an online "viewbook" showcasing 100 marvelous things about Wellesley in a responsive multiplatform setting.

Wellesley Celebrates Summer Research in the Sciences

An afternoon poster session on August 1 highlighted the efforts and findings of more than 100 students who participated in Wellesley's Science Center Summer Research program this year.

Wellesley-in-Washington Internship Program Going Strong at 70

As the U.S. Congress heads to summer recess, Wellesley students wrap up their intensive 10-week program working in Washington, D.C. and join a long-running history of Wellesley women learning “on the job” in the nation’s capitol.

Boston Globe Recounts Wellesley’s Leadership in Shaping Modern Art

On July 28, The Boston Sunday Globe published an extensive article chronicling a 1920s Wellesley art history course taught by Alfred H. Barr that transformed modern art and, by extension, American culture.

Wellesley Senior Leads Bilingual Tour of Historic Boston Neighborhood in Pioneering Program

As part of her Grace Slack McNeil Program for Studies in American Art-funded internship with Boston Preservation Alliance, Christina Rieth ’14 leads a bilingual tour of Boston’s Egleston Square on July 27, to encourage citizen participation in urban development.

Wellesley Alum Wins Prestigious Acumen Global Fellowship

Kathleen Berroth ’02 has won a prestigious Acumen Global Fellowship, a year-long leadership training program in microfinance and impact investment. She competed with more than a thousand applicants seeking one of 10 fellowships.

Composers Conference & Chamber Music Workshops at Wellesley Begin July 21

The annual Composers Conference and Chamber Music Workshops returns to Wellesley. The program brings together emerging composers and professional and amateur musicians for a two-week conference guided by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Mario Davidovsky.

Wellesley Orientation Common Reading Selection: Being Wrong

Kathryn Schulz's Being Wrong: Adventures in the Margin of Error has been sent to new students, student leaders, and faculty teaching first-year courses; all are encouraged to read and discuss the book over the summer and into the fall.

Wellesley Junior Represents U.S. at Japan-America Student Conference

Katherine Jordan ’15 served on the executive committee of the Japan-America Student Conference this year and will represent the United States at the 2013 Conference in Kyoto this summer.

Wellesley Listed Among Best College Campuses for a Good Run

Even in the heat and humidity of July, Wellesley is a great place to run—and to learn, research, work, and explore. Prospective students and others, we invite you to visit!

Wellesley Students Charter First All-Women’s College Chapter of Prestigious Legal Honors Society

Brittany Lamon-Paredes '15 and Adeline Lee '16, as part of an nine-member executive board, have founded a Phi Delta Phi Pre-Law Hall at Wellesley.

Two Wellesley German Professors Headline eNotated Classics Site

Thomas Hansen leads eNotated Classic's new publication list with the release of his enotated translation of Death in Venice; Jens Kruse is featured prominently in a WZLY interview about his e-notated works by Kafka.

New Study Examines How Team Dynamics Influence Leadership, Volunteer Commitment

A new study co-authored by Wellesley's Hahrie Han looked at what organizational factors make for the most committed leaders. Among other findings, the study revealed that leaders whose success is intimately linked to efforts of other members contribute more time.

CCTV Speaks with President Bottomly about Women and Leadership in Beijing

Wellesley President H. Kim Bottomly was interviewed on the China Central Television (CCTV) program Dialogue for the launch of the Wellesley-Peking partnership. 

Wellesley Alumnae Receive Honorary Degrees

Vivian Pinn '62 received an honorary degree from Bates College this year; she was among Wellesley community members including Madeleine Albright '59, Diana Chapman Walsh '66, Alecia DeCoudreaux '76, and others, recognized for leadership in their respective fields by colleges and universities across the continent.

Wellesley-Peking Partnership Featured in Caixin Media's Century Weekly

The Wellesley-Peking Partnership is the subject of the June 26, 2013 issue of Century Weekly from Caixin Media, which is based in Beijing.

First Women World Partners Collaborative Concludes in Beijing

Women World Partners' inaugural program, a partnership between Wellesley and Peking University, culminated in Women’s Leadership: Making a Difference in the World, a day-long summit convening hundreds of women leaders from around the globe.

Wellesley Campus Busy Through Summer

Wellesley's Summer Session, summer research, museums, and gardens are in full swing as summer officially begins. The College also welcomes participants from other learning programs on campus in the coming months—from middle-school explorers to seasoned composers.

Wellesley Summer Theater's 'Dancing at Lughnasa' a Boston Globe Pick

In the harvest season of 1936 anything seems possible for five sisters in County Donegal, even love. But is the world they know about to change forever? This production runs through June 23 at Wellesley.

Alumna Named to Obama's Economic Council

Betsey Stevenson '93 was appointed last week by President Obama to his Council of Economic Advisers. The Council is responsible for advising the president on issues related to economic policy and for proposing potential solutions.

Wellesley and Peking University Host Global Leadership Conference

Wellesley's innovative partnership with Peking University presents a first-of-its-kind conference in Beijing, Women's Leadership: Making a Difference in the World, on June 15, 2013.

Wellesley Alumna Elected to National Academy of Sciences

Katherine Haines Freeman '84 has received one of the highest honors awarded to American scientists. The Penn State geosciences professor's specialty—fossil molecules, or biomarkers, from ancient flora—shows roots in her geology-classical civilization double major at Wellesley.

Albright at Wellesley's Inaugural Women World Partners Event

Madeleine Korbel Albright '59 visited the inaugural Women World Partners institute in Beijing to discuss the importance of pursuing an interdisciplinary approach to women’s global leadership through international collaboration, particularly between the U.S. and China.

Women World Partners Announced in New York City's Time Square

Women World Partners was featured on an electronic billboard in New York City's Time Square, with a display of Wellesley's infographic on the importance of investing in the leadership potential of women.

Academic Program of the Wellesley College-Peking University Partnership Begins Today in Beijing

The Wellesley College-Peking University Partnership for Women’s Leadership in a Global Era academic program begins today at Peking University in Beijing, China.

China's Oldest Active Chinese Language Newspaper Announces World Women Partners

Ta Kung Pao, the oldest active Chinese language newspaper in China, covers a range of political, economic and cultural topics. The paper recently covered World Women Partners. This article is in Chinese.

Wellesley College Announces Global Initiative to Create Next Generation of Women Leaders

Wellesley College, the premier liberal arts institution known for cultivating some of the world’s most influential women leaders has announced a major global initiative with a critical mission: to educate the next generation of women leaders around the world.

Wilton Virgo Demystifies Quantum Mechanics

Assistant Professor of Chemistry Wilton L. Virgo illuminates the chemistry of climate change and the quantum mechanics of everyday life in two innovative publications.

New York Times: Asian Universities Offer Programs for Female Business Leaders

A New York Times special report on education examined a relatively new practice in Asian universities: offering short courses specifically for women leaders in business and politics. The article mentioned Wellesley's new initiative, Women World Partners, kicking off next week in Beijing, China.

Alice Choe '13 Wins Prestigious Watson Fellowship

Graduating senior Alice Choe will use her Thomas J. Watson Fellowship to travel to four countries and study the complexities of domestic violence. She joins 56 Wellesley women to have won Watsons since 1980.

Wellesley’s Leadership Development Program Reports First Results

Wellesley President Kim Bottomly congratulated the first "batch" of staff to complete the College’s Leadership Development Program, launched in 2012 to prepare individuals for future leadership, and build the College’s capacity for collaboration and creative problem solving.

Wellesley Architecture Students Win Boston Design Competition

SiteSeeing, an entry by Wellesley architecture students Marguerite Sulmont ’13 and Anna Lake-Smith ’13, was one of three winners of a contest sponsored by the City of Boston Transportation Department and the National Parks Service.

Wellesley Announces First edX Classes

The first WellesleyX courses span STEM, history, sociology, and Shakespeare, representing Wellesley’s interdisciplinary power. Anthropology 207x: Introduction to Human Evolution is the College's first edX offering, with three more courses announced for 2014.

Dana Im '10 Earns Prestigious Soros Fellowship

This young alum's creativity, originality, initiative, and sustained accomplishment was rewarded and will be supported by the Soros Foundation's grant for her medical and public policy education.

Claire Fontijn Publishes New Multimedia Book on Medieval Mystic

Claire Fontijn, associate professor of music, has a new book about Hildegard von Bingen, a 12th Century mystic, visionary, philosopher, and composer whose “Visions of the Angelic Hierarchy” is shown here.

Finals Week at Wellesley College

Finals week advice: Take a second to smell the roses (or grape hyacinths)—or at least to mentally register the beauty around you. You can find it in nature, in people, and in the many unique spots on campus perfect for paper-writing and exam-preparing. Good luck, students!

Wellesley Junior Competes on Jeopardy!

Russian major Laura Rigge ’14 (shown here with host Alex Trebek) competes in the Jeopardy! episode airing May 10 on the long-running national quiz show’s “College Championship.”

Wellesley Professor in The Atlantic: "Forget Plan B"

An article in The Atlantic by Wellesley's Phillip B. Levine and co-author Melissa Kearney explains why economic opportunity trumps access to contraception in deterring teen pregnancy; "giving girls a reason not to get pregnant in the first place could go a long way towards solving it."

Professor Frank Bidart Interviewed By Poets & Writers Magazine

A recent issue of Poets & Writers Magazine features an interview with Frank Bidart, the Andrew W. Mellon Professor in the Humanities and Professor of English.

Wellesley College Programming Team Wins Regional Competition

The Wellesley College team of Emily Erdman ‘13, Michelle Ferreirae ‘13, and Erin Davis ‘14, placed first in the Consortium for Computing Sciences in Colleges Northeastern Region programming competition—the first all-women team to win the competition.

Earth Month: Wellesley Celebrates Sustainability

A recent mention in The Princeton Review’s Guide to 322 Green Colleges and the work of a group of students who aim to make Wellesley a pioneer in the effort to reduce waste are just two of the things Wellesley has celebrated this Earth Month.

Dan Sichel: Lady Gaga as part of Gross Domestic Product

Professor Dan Sichel spoke with NPR's David Kestenbaum about what is and isn't included in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and how "Lady Gaga Writing A New Song Is Like A Factory Investing In A New Machine"

Culture, Collecting, Conservation at the Davis

On April 26, an afternoon symposium brings together a team of experts in the Davis Museum to celebrate Wellesley College's 2011 acquisition of an 18th century portrait of a young woman in Lima, Peru, not previously exhibited.

Panel Discussion: Chechnya, Russia, and the Marathon Bombing

Russian Area Studies hosts a panel discussion exploring the complex political, historical and religious context of the native region of the alleged Marathon bombers. The talk will take place tonight, Thursday, April 25, at 8 PM in Knapp Atrium.

Student's Project, Art Installation finds new home in Wellesley Center

Inspired by her studies of waste streams, Elli Blaine '13 worked with contemporary artist Willie Cole on an installation using 1,000 discarded waterbottles. The work, on display at the College through February, is now displayed in a storefront in the town of Wellesley, reports Boston.com.

Wellesley Stands with Boston

The Wellesley novice crew team stands with Boston. As do we all. On April 22, at 2:50 p.m., the Wellesley community is invited to join in a moment of silence for the victims of last week's events.

Students Launch Initiative to Bring TEDx to Wellesley College

TEDx, the subsidiary of TED, a hugely popular and successful conference platform, is set to come to Wellesley College in February 2014; speaker nominations open now till May 10.

Valerie Jarrett Named Wellesley’s 2013 Commencement Speaker

Valerie B. Jarrett, senior advisor to President Barack Obama and chair of the White House Council on Women and Girls, will address graduates and an international audience of their family and friends at Commencement on May 31.

Two of 11 Google App Engine Education Awards Go to Wellesley Faculty

Norma Wilentz Hess Fellow in Computer Science Eni Mustafaraj and Clare Booth Luce Assistant Professor of Computer Science Orit Shaer have been individually recognized by Google for innovative projects built on Google's infrastructure.

Wellesley Senior Wins $10,000 Davis Project for Peace Grant

Michelle Kang ’13 has been awarded a 2013 Davis Project for Peace fellowship to promote peace and address the root causes of conflict. She'll use the funds to lead photography and multimedia projects with South African youth.

Panels Open the Dialogue on Human Rights in North Korea

Student group Advocates for North Korean Human Rights, or ANKHR, has organized a series of panels designed to open the dialogue and create a deeper understanding of the North Korean human rights crisis.

Washington Post: Could Google Tilt a Close Election?

A recent Washington Post opinion piece cited work by Wellesley researchers Takis Metaxas and Eni Mustafaraj. The paper cited, "Social Media and the Elections," was published by the Journal Science in November 2012.

Tech Efficiencies Becoming a Wellesley Hallmark

Back to the future? Nope, just an April Fool's Day visit to the college homepage of 1998, to celebrate a year on the open-source website platform—just one of the resource-saving technology projects that bring new efficiencies and new looks (and perhaps some nostalgia) to the College's operations.

Hayley Goydan ’14 Caps Wellesley Diving Season with Strong NCAA Performance

The junior's All-America honors round out a fantastic season for Wellesley Swimming & Diving, and is accompanied by solid performance in all the Blue varsity winter sports.

Walter Mosley and China Miéville Speak at Wellesley March 26

The Distinguished Writers Series at the Susan and Donald Newhouse Center for the Humanities presents authors in dialogue with the audience. Mosley and Miéville both work in a multitude of genres.

Julie Norem: The Power of Negative Thinking

Is this glass as half-full or half-empty? If you want better outcomes, maybe you should consider it half empty. Julie K. Norem, Margaret Hamm Professor of Psychology, recently spoke with the Boston Globe and Canada's Globe and Mail about the power of negative thinking.

Wellesley Senior Presents at Middle Eastern Studies Conference in Qatar

Mary Kenefake ’13 is in Doha this week, presenting her paper, “The Socioeconomic Transformation of Iran: Reform and Revolution 1973–1985.”

Wellesley's Jim Wice on The Boston Brakers Power Soccer Club

Jim Wice, Director of Disability Services for Wellesley College, is a member of the Boston Breakers, a recently formed power soccer club. He spoke with Boston.com about the sport and what the team needs to take the game to the next level.

Wellesley Professor of Religion Sharon Elkins on Pope Francis

Last week, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina was chosen as the new leader of the Catholic Church, becoming Pope Francis. Wellesley's Sharon Elkins reflects on issues he might address as pope.

Wellesley Student Wins Prestigious MIT Music Award

Audrey Wozniak ’14 has won the MIT Concerto Competition as a solo violinist. She will perform Mozart's Adagio and Rondo for Violin and Orchestra, and serve as concertmaster for Stravinsky's Rite of Spring in a March 15 concert.

Closing of Piracy Website Increased Legal Movie Sales, Study Shows

A study coauthored by Wellesley economist Brett Danaher, is the first to examine the impact of shutting down a major piracy website. Danaher’s findings have gained international media attention, from the Wall Street Journal to El Mundo.

Fulbright Scholar, Singer, Mary McPartlan Visits Wellesley College

The renowned Irish performer will present an illustrated lecture on March 11 about Ireland's influential female singers from the 1950s and beyond; McPartlan will perform selected songs.

Wellesley Alum’s Book Wins AAAS Award

The American Association for the Advancement of Science named Ocean Sunlight, by Molly Bang ’65, the Best Children’s Science Picture Book of 2012.

Science Fiction Conference Explores International Themes

Wellesley College hosts a Global Science Fiction Conference March 8-9. Friday opens with keynote speaker Andrea Hairston and musician Pan Morigan and a screening of the film Cloud Atlas. Panels on Saturday discuss the genre across various national and cultural traditions.

David Ferry talks to PBS on Writing Verse, Reading Poems, Winning Awards at 88

David Ferry, the Sophie Chantal Hart Professor Emeritus of English and recent recipient of the prestigious National Book Award for Poetry for his collection Bewilderment, spoke to PBS about his award, his poetry and his own "deep connections to the past."

24-Hour Shakespeare Returns to Wellesley

The Wellesley College Shakespeare Society, joined by the community, will read (continuously) the complete works of William Shakespeare from Friday, March 1, at noon to Saturday at noon. Come to the Shakespeare Society House (near the Davis Museum) and read an entire play or two lines of a sonnet to help out. Free and open to the public.

Wellesley College Hosts Global Science Fiction Conference

The Susan and Donald Newhouse Center for the Humanities at Wellesley College will host a Global Science Fiction Conference on March 8 and 9 designed to bring the community and scholars together to explore the genre of science fiction as it is presented in various national and cultural traditions.

Margaret Keane Delivers the 2013 Distinguished Faculty Lecture

In this Wellesley Wednesday event, Professor of Psychology Margaret Keane explores findings from research on how memory shapes behavior and enables us to envision the future. Free and open to the public.

Scott Gunther Sheds Light on Same-Sex Marriage Protests in France

Associate Professor of French Scott Gunther writes in the Huffington Post about differences between the way opponents of same-sex marriage in the United States and France articulate opposition.

Festival of Dance Showcases Wellesley’s Dance Prowess

Wellesley’s first Festival of Dance takes places February 23, 2013, with workshops and a collaborative night of performance by a dozen Wellesley dance organizations and several Wellesley musical orgs.

Barbara Beatty on Universal Preschool Education

Barbara Beatty, professor of education, spoke with WBUR's Radio Boston yesterday about calls by President Barack Obama and Governor Deval Patrick for universal preschool education.

"Prepared Box for John Cage" on View at the Davis

The Davis Museum at Wellesley College is home to the multimedia exhibition honoring 20th century avant-garde composer and innovator John Cage until June 9, 2013.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

In keeping with the day, we invited friends on the Wellesley College Facebook and Twitter pages to share what they loved most about Wellesley. Students and alums love "everything" down to "Platform 9¾," but most especially they appreciate one another.

Wellesley Economist Phillip Levine Featured in New York Times

A study by Phillip B. Levine, Courtney Coile, and Robin McKnight examined effects of job loss on older workers. Last week, New York Times featured Levine answering reader questions about job loss and life expectancy among older workers.

Harleston Parker Medal Honors Wellesley Alum and Alumnae Valley

The award honoring the "single most beautiful building or other structure” built in the metropolitan Boston area in the past 10 years went to a team including Andrea Leers '64 for the MIT Media Lab; Wellesley's Alumnae Valley was named runner-up.

Jerome A. Schiff Fellows Pursue a Wide Range of Research

The Jerome A. Schiff Charitable Trust funds the independent research projects of 10 to 15 Wellesley College students during each academic year. Meet five of this year's Schiff Fellows.

Wintersession in Morocco Program Inspires Students

Fifteen Wellesley students started Spring semester this week fresh off an illuminating Wintersession program in Morocco.

New History Books Look at Social Changes in Different Eras, Geographies

New books by history faculty members Guy Rogers, Lidwien Kapteijns, and Quinn Slobodian provide new perspectives on social changes in diverse periods and geographical areas with topics ranging from cults in antiquity to European social protests to Somalian genocide.

Phil Levine Talks with The Atlantic About the Impact of Roe v. Wade

In the years following Roe v. Wade, the U.S. saw fewer births, less crime, and fewer children living in poverty, but economists have yet to crack some big questions about the decision's impact, Professor Phil Levine explains to The Atlantic.

Wellesley Alumnae Are Leaders in Philanthropy

The New York Times says Lulu Chow Wang '66 and her husband, Anthony Wang, established themselves in the vanguard of a new wave of Asian-American philanthropy when they donated $25 million to Wellesley College in 2000.

CWS Sponsors Wintersession Service Trip

During the last week of Wintersession, a group of 17 Wellesley students and three staff members traveled to New Orleans for the Center for Work and Service’s seventh annual Habitat for Humanity service trip.

First Freedom Project Wintersession Institute Underway at Wellesley

In the first annual Freedom Project Wintersession Institute, 15 selected students participate in an intensive, five-day seminar with leaders in the field of libertarian and classical liberal thought.

Michael Jeffries on the Cultural Significance of President Obama

Paint the White House Black: Barack Obama and the Meaning of Race in America by Knafel Assistant Professor of Social Sciences and Assistant Professor of American Studies Michael Jeffries explores themes like biracialism, the notion of "post-racial society," and portrayals of Michelle Obama.

Wellesley Alumna Named First Woman President of Lafayette College

Alison R. Byerly ’83 has been named the 17th president of Lafayette College, a residential liberal arts college in Easton, Pa., that was founded in 1826. Byerly will take office on July 1, 2013.

Melinda Lopez Selected for Theatre Residency

Wellesley’s Melinda Lopez, lecturer in theatre studies, is one of 14 playwrights around the country to receive a three-year residency funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the Boston Globe reports. Her residency at Boston's Huntington Theater begins July 1.

Wellesley Summer Theatre Presents 'Holiday'

A nationally acclaimed performing arts group that provides students the chance to work with professional actors, Wellesley Summer Theatre presents a 1920s classic comedy by Philip Barry
, opening January 10 and running through February 3, 2013

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Wellesley Welcomes First Engineering Faculty Member

Visiting Lecturer Amy Banzaert joins Wellesley in Spring 2013 as the College’s first engineering faculty member; she is also a member of the 2013 Madeleine K. Albright Institute for Global Affairs Wintersession faculty.

Wellesley's Greenhouses Welcome Visitors Year-Round

Winter's chill in your bones? Need a breath of tropical (or desert) air? Visit the Margaret C. Ferguson Greenhouses at Wellesley College, the most diverse collection of plants under glass in the greater Boston area.