News Headlines

MUM to Host Talent Show

Miami University Middletown will host its Second Annual Talent Show on Friday, May 23 at 7:30 pm in Dave Finkelman Auditorium.

Performances will showcase a variety of local talent from the Middletown community including MUM's Finest and the Dream Team Drill Team. FACES, a student organization, is sponsoring the show.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information on this event call (513) 727-3205. Miami Middletown is located at 4200 E. University Blvd.

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MUM Lists 2008 Student Awards

Miami University Middletown recently announced its 2007/08 departmental and leadership/service awards for students.

Departmental awards for academic achievement at Miami Middletown included:

Business - Breanne R. Eady (Trenton) and Michael A. Truman (Miamisburg).

Chemistry - Brandie Back (Middletown), James Burton (Middletown) and Tiffanie Salmon (Middletown).

Computer Information Technology - Jeremy S. Christman (Middletown), William A. Morrison (Middletown) and Josiah D. Tharp (Trenton).

Engineering Technology - Scott Tobias (Middletown).

Classics - Debra Garner (Middletown)

Communication - Alyssa Reed (Liberty Township)

History - Alex Duvelius (Loveland) and Craig Grassaway (Monroe)

Malcolm Sedam Award for Fiction & Poetry - Alissa Werner (West Chester)

Political Science - Felicia Berry (Monroe)

Sociology - Matthew Brashear (Trenton)

Family Studies & Social Work - MaryAnn Baker (Franklin)

Education - Katie Henry (Middletown) and Sarah Richmond (Middletown)

Anthropology - Michelle Christy (Middletown)

Nursing - Lindsey Jones Cooley (Miamisburg),Heather Kimbrough (Middletown), Sarah Kitenda (Cincinnati), Heather Martin (Hamilton)and Shawna Rawlins (Carlisle).

Leadership Service Awards were given to: Douglas Arnold (Middletown), Kelli Brewer (Germantown), Marianne Burgess (Franklin), Michelle Christy (Middletown), Alex Duvelius (Loveland), Bradley Fletcher (Franklin), Catharine Gustin (Trenton), Katie Henry (Middletown), Jeralyn Hidlebaugh (Middletown), Charles Hooten (Franklin), Adam Jackson (Middletown), Lauren Kirch (Mason), Michelle Lawrence (Centerville), Stephanie Miller (Camden), Shelby Pettus (Monroe), Craig Pitts Jr. (Middletown), Shayna Reed (Eaton), Gailon Revere (Middletown), Jeff Sams (Franklin), Scott Sears (Middletown), Allison Singhoffer (Somerville), Sean Taylor (Middletown), Jacki Toms (Middletown) and Meghan Woods (Monroe).

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Melbye, McDiffett Win MUM Teaching Award

Eric Melbye and Amy McDiffett are winners of the 2008 Excellence in Teaching Award at Miami University Middletown.

Melbye, recipient of the award for full-time faculty, joined MUM in 2001 and has taught composition and creative writing courses in the English Department. He has an approach to teaching that, in his words, "fosters skills in critical reflection, problem-solving, creative vision, and a comfort level with unfamiliarity that is necessary for innovation." In the literary journal called Segue that he established, Melbye instituted an Author Q&A section where he publishes e-mail dialogues between his students and authors to demonstrate that literature is "written by living people who do not live in ivory towers, who have day jobs, and who make the same kinds of mistakes and cope with the same insecurities as student writers do." Melbye regularly engages students in community-based learning and encourages his students to explore the connections between creative writing and the community. Melbye also serves as the Director of the Campus-Community Connection and has recently opened the Miami Middletown Downtown facility to provide space for workshops, lectures, seminars, meetings, and cultural events. As his role as an instructor, as advisor for The Illuminati, a student publication, and as a leader in community connections, Melbye demonstrates his dedication to his students. As a nominator said, "I can't think of a better instructor to learn from, emulate, and nominate for this award."

McDiffett, recipient of the award for part-time faculty, has taught in the Math Department at Miami Middletown for nearly fifteen years. Her classes have included a variety of math courses, mostly at the developmental and introductory level. One of her nominators said, "It is remarkable that Amy is able to reach such a wide range of different types of students, meeting them where they are at and consistently helping them make that very necessary step forward in math." McDiffett's caring and positive approach to teaching has benefited many students who might otherwise be at risk in higher education. As McDiffett put it herself, "I come with the perspective that I will meet the student where their knowledge is, not where I perceive or desire their knowledge to be" Her students also laud her with praise, saying, "Miss McDiffett truly cared whether we understood the subjects taught. She always answered our questions and made sure we truly understood before moving on."

Faculty, staff and students submitted nominations for the Excellence in Teaching Award. The nominees were then asked to provide a statement about their teaching philosophies and practices. A committee of six faculty members who were all former winners of the award then selected the recipients.

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Miami Middletown to Host Blood Drive

Miami University Middletown will host a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 29 in the Campus and Community Center, Room 142. Donors must be at least 17 years old, 110 pounds, in good general health and must bring a photo I.D. with their full name.

Everyone who registers to donate will receive a "parrothead" T-shirt and be entered into a Community Blood Center raffle for one of four pairs of tickets to the sold out Jimmy Buffet concert in Cincinnati on July 17.

For information on donor eligibility, visit www.cbccts.org, call (800) 388-4483 or email canidonate@cbccts.org. Miami Middletown is located at 4200 E. University Blvd.

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Heart of the Art Opens Downtown May 15

Miami Middletown Downtown will host an exhibition from the new Heart of the Art Studio from May 15 until June 11. The public is invited to meet the show's artists at an opening reception from 4 - 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 15. More than 70 works of art ranging in price from $15 to $200 will be available for purchase.

The Heart of the Art Studio features artwork created by people who attend the MRDD adult centers in Hamilton, Middletown and Liberty Township. Art displayed at the Middletown show will include drawings, paintings, clay fish and painted ceiling tiles. Proceeds from the sale of art are split between the artist and the studio, which are then used to purchase supplies for the program.

"Heart of the Art is succeeding on many levels," said Program Coordinator Kim Braunig. "It promotes the personal and educational growth of our clients, while giving them a way to earn money."

Miami University Middletown has provided marketing, planning and artistic support to the Heart of the Art program. Miami Middletown student Allison Singhoffer was artist in residence and advisor to many of the featured artists.

"This art has real 'wow' appeal," said Miami Middletown Assistant Dean Cathy Bishop-Clark. "Everyone who sees it is impressed with the creativity and joy it expresses. We're thrilled to be bringing the show to Middletown."

Miami Middletown Downtown is located at 4 North Main Street.

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Howard Receives SEAS Research Award

Lizz Howard, associate professor in Computer and Information Technology at Miami University Middletown, has received the School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) Regional Campus Research Award. The award is given annually to an outstanding faculty member in a SEAS regional campus department to recognize outstanding accomplishments in research and scholarship.

Howard's scholarship has been focused on ethics, student learning, inclusion, learning styles, and related issues of collaboration and communication in computing. She has published in refereed journals and conference proceedings, given numerous professional presentations, and facilitated a number of workshops in these areas. Most recently, Professor Howard was invited to speak on Information Technology Ethics at the University of Oxford, U.K.

Howard began teaching at Miami University in 1995 and holds degrees in Computer Engineering and Systems Analysis. She teaches a range of courses in computing including computer architecture, Visual BASIC programming, and technology and ethics.

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Christman, Reed Named MUM Students of the Month

Jeremy Christman and Alyssa Reed have been named Miami University Middletown's Students of the Month for March and April.

Jeremy Christman, a junior computer science major from Middletown, was nominated for the award for his outstanding work tutoring five students in computer science and analysis. "He is responsible, reliable, kind and patient," says his nominator. "He assisted a visually disabled classmate to succeed in the class. I was surprised at how adept he was working with a student with a disability." Christman maintains a high GPA while helping others succeed academically.

Alyssa Reed, a freshman from Liberty Township majoring in family studies, was nominated for the award for her efforts as a campus volunteer. For the last two years, she volunteered to help with an admissions initiative. "Occasionally a real standout comes along and I not only get to know the student through their class work, but I get to know the student through their efforts to belong to the university community," says her nominator. Reed maintains a high GPA and has recently been inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society at Miami Middletown.

The Student of the Month award is given in recognition of students who make a significant contribution to the campus either in or out of the classroom.

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New Summertime Program to Improve Math Skills

In an all-out effort to improve the math skills of local residents who are interested in attending college, Middletown's Adult Education program and Miami University Middletown are joining together to provide free, individualized math instruction this summer in a class titled, 'Transitioning to College Math." From June 16 until mid-August, students may attend twice-weekly evening sessions that will be tailored to teach only the math skills needed by each individual. Anyone not currently enrolled in high school may participate including students preparing to take college math placement exams.

The primary goal of this pilot program is to increase the student's math competency and reduce or eliminate the need for them to take remedial math courses when they enter college. The secondary goal is to educate students about the college environment.

It will be staffed by Adult Basic and Literary Education (ABLE) program math teachers with college prep presentations provided by MUM's Student Affairs staff. The program will be located in the math lab (Johnston Hall Room 9) at Miami Middletown.

"A basic proficiency in math up to the algebra level is needed in every academic discipline and in every job in today's workplace," said Middletown City School District Adult Education Principal Rose Marie Stiehl. "If you've been out of school for several years or just feel like you missed something along the way, this is a great opportunity to catch up and move forward to college. Plus it's free and you can't top that."

A pre-test will determine what type of self-directed and teacher supported mathematics study the student will need during the summer program. A post-test will be given at the conclusion of the program which will prompt a discussion with the student about their current skills level, need for additional study and suggestions regarding college admission and academic programs.

"Some individuals have trouble with just one area of math," said Stiehl. "They may just have difficulty with fractions, for example. With this program, the instruction would cover just that area, so students won't have to spend time covering materials they have already mastered."

According to Miami Universities Assistant Director of Student Services Tonia Hyllengren, "Students will become more aware of the college campus, learning assistance resources, academic major programs, admission, financial aid, registration and our new Summer Time Enrichment Program. They will have had the opportunity to become more aware and comfortable with the realities of college, so their transition into higher education should be less stressful."

This program is being made possible by a State and Federal Adult Basic and Literacy Education Grant administered by the Middletown School District. For more information, contact Rose Marie Stiehl (513-420-4520, rmstiehl@middletowncityschools.com)or Tonia Hyllengren (513-727-3440, hyllentl@muohio.edu).

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May Downtown Events Announced

Miami Middletown Downtown enters its third month with a slate of events that includes music, film, a book club, career help, chess club and a writing group. All events are free and open to the public. Miami Middletown Downtown is located at 4 North Main Street, former home of the Masonic Temple, in Middletown.

On Thursday, May 1 at 7 p.m., Dr. Babacar Camara will lead the viewing and discussion of the film Binta & The Great Idea . A little girl from Senegal, Binta tells us about everyday life in her village, the importance of education for the girls and about her father's great idea to make the world a better place. This short film was nominated for an Oscar in 2007.

On Thursday, May 8, the Chess Club will meet at 7 p.m.

On Tuesday, May 13, Gregg Clark will be featured during a music hour at 7 p.m. Clark has been playing guitar in the Tri-State area and beyond for over forty years. Clark will play a smooth set including blues, jazz, and rock.

On Thursday, May 15, the Heart of the Art Studio Show will hold its opening reception. The public is invited to meet the artists and enjoy light refreshments from 4 - 6 p.m.

On Saturday, May 17, the Illuminati Writing Group will meet at 2 p.m. This casual writing and work-shopping group is for all levels and genres of writing. Peer critique and writing exercises will help those attending polish their craft while having fun with other local writers.

On Tuesday, May 20, the Booking It! Non-Fiction Book Conversations group will meet at 7 p.m. to discuss Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell, author of The Tipping Point. This book is about the first two seconds of looking--the decisive glance that knows in an instant.

On Wednesday, May 21, Miami Middletown Downtown will opens its doors for Community Appreciation Day, featuring ice cream floats and give away items from 5 - 7 p.m. Drop in for a visit during the season's first Broad Street Bash.

On Thursday, May 22, a "career changers" session will be held on effective resume writing and interviewing techniques. This program begins at 7 p.m.

On Friday, May 23, a Community Blood Drive will be held from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Donors must be at least 17 years old and 110 pounds, be in good general health and must bring a photo I.D. with their full name.

On Tuesday, May 27, the music hour will feature Just The Two of Us: Woody Woodrey and Jerry Robinson at 7 p.m. Woody Woodrey plays the keyboards and has had extensive performance experience including an eight-year stint as a traveling musician with such notable performers as Dizzy Gillespie, Al Morgan, Cal Collins, Ray Luckey, The Diamonds, and The Sammy Kaye Orchestra. Jerry Robinson plays the Alto and Tenor Sax/Clarinet. He has 45+ years experience on his instruments and has played with all sized groups ranging from a duo to the traditional big band. Their repertoire includes music from many styles and eras.

On Thursday, May 29, the Cult Film Group will meet at 7 p.m. to watch and discuss Over the Edge (1979), featuring Matt Dillon in his film debut and directed by Jonathan Kaplan. A 14-year-old rebel without a cause wreaks havoc in a suburban, planned community in this cult classic.

Miami Middletown Downtown is a multipurpose activity center designed to bring the campus and community together by providing flexible space for workshops, lectures, seminars, meetings, cultural events and more. For more information on any of these events or other upcoming events at Miami Middletown Downtown call (513) 727-3200 or log onto www.mid.muohio.edu/community.

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Kids in College Schedule Announced

Miami University Middletown is offering summer enrichment programs for children who will be entering grades 1-8 in the fall. These interactive, creative programs highlight science, math, reading, computers and more! Students may mix and match programs for a full morning of activities.

Classes will be held the weeks of June 23 and July 7, with unique programs offered during each session. Costs range from $45-$125, with most classes costing $45. Times are from 9-10:20 a.m. or 10:40 a.m.-12 p.m., Monday - Thursday.

Classes for the week of June 23 include: Dr. Seuss on the Loose, Fantastic Fairy Tales, Get Down & Get Messy!, How to Make an Apple Pie & See the World, Literature + Science = Fun and More Get Down and Get Messy! for grades 1 and 2; Artful Animals, Don't "Bug" Me, Edible Math, Interactive, Hands-on, Experimental Science, LEGO® Vehicles, Readers' Theater, Spanish for Fun!, SportsClassroom: Math/Science and SportsClassroom: Reading/Writing for grades 3, 4 and 5; Cartoon Animation, CSI Miami U. Middletown, History through the Movies and Medieval Madness for grades 6, 7 and 8.

Classes for the week of July 7 include: Get Down & Get Messy!, How to Make an Apple Pie & See the World, Junie B. Jones, Magic Tree House and More Get Down and Get Messy! for grades 1 and 2; Cartoon Animation, Don't "Bug" Me, Edible Math, Interactive, Hands-on, Experimental Science, LEGO® Vehicles, SportsClassroom: Math/Science and SportsClassroom: Reading/Writing for grades 3, 4 and 5; Anime Cartooning, History through the Movies and Medieval Madness for grades 6, 7 and 8.

For more information, to request a brochure, or to register log onto http://miamiuhamilton.augusoft.net/ or call the Corporate and Community Institute at 513-727-3300. The 2008 Kids in College program is sponsored by KDM Signs, Inc., Middletown Eyecare/Settlers Walk Eyecare and United Performance Metals.

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Michelle Lawrence Receives Miami President's Award

Michelle Lawrence, a senior creative writing major from Centerville, was the recipient of the Miami University President's Distinguished Service Award, presented in Oxford earlier this month. Only 21 students from all of Miami's campuses received this award this year.

"She is dedicated to her work because she takes it personally, not as a job to be done, but an opportunity for the good of all," said Miami Middletown Associate Professor of English Dr. Eric Melbye, who nominated her. "Her accomplishments as Editor-in-Chief of The Illuminati, Miami University Middletown's creative writing student organization, have been truly exceptional, having a tremendous impact on the life of the campus and community. She is the perfect embodiment of the old adage, 'Serve by leading; lead by serving.' "

Lawrence has also written for KAOS, the student newspaper, and has been a member of the campus' Communications Board. She has been involved in organizing open-mic poetry readings at Miami Middletown and the Franklin Public Library.

She received the Malcolm Sedam Writing Award for fiction and again for nonfiction, received a Service Leadership Award and was the recipient of the Dillman Scholarship and the Malcolm Sedam Writing Scholarship.

She was the student representative on the 2006 search committee to find a new Campus Dean at Miami Middletown and received praise for the enthusiasm and organization that she brought to the task.

Also in 2006, she took the lead in organizing the Pink Ribbon "Hafla" (Arabic for party or celebration) at Miami Middletown. All proceeds from this afternoon of Middle Eastern-inspired dance and music went to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for Breast Cancer Research.

She was co-editor of the Under Our Skin literary anthology of fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction that explored the multifaceted experience of breast cancer. Proceeds from the sale of this book also went to the Komen Foundation.

In 2006, she received the W. Lynn Darbyshire Award, Miami Middletown's highest award for students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in a student organization, student advisory council, student employment, community service or campus committee assignment.

The granddaughter of one of Miami Middletown's founders, Herman Lawrence, she is the proud mother of Ally.

Michelle Lawrence (center) is congratulated by nominator Eric Melbye (left) and Miami President David Hodge.

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