University Communications » Internal Communications » TrailBlazer » TrailBlazer 11-27-2012

Deck the Mall lights up campus tonight

The official start of the campus holiday season begins at 6:30 p.m. today, Tuesday, Nov. 27, with the fourth annual Deck the Mall lighting ceremony on the Library mall.

Allan Saxe, associate professor of political science, will make a presentation before flipping the switch to illuminate 30,000 lights. The lights will continue to brighten the campus until the beginning of the new year.

Free cookies, hot chocolate, apple cider, and crafts to make and take home will be available at the event, which is sponsored by EXCEL Campus Activities.

Dr. Kathy Obear

Diversity lecture features social justice speaker

Kathy Obear, president of Alliance for Change, discusses "Creating an Inclusive, Socially Just Campus Community" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 28, in the Bluebonnet Ballroom at the E.H. Hereford University Center.

Dr. Obear is a founding faculty member of the Social Justice Institute, an intensive professional development program for social justice educators. She has received the American College Personnel Association Diamond Honoree award for significant contribution to higher education and student affairs work.

The event is part of the Diversity Lecture Series hosted by Multicultural Affairs and Student Affairs.

Participate in online feedback surveys

Invitations to fill out Student Feedback Surveys were sent to student MyMav email accounts, starting last week. Your voice is essential in UT Arlington's ongoing mission to bring the best possible academic experience to students.

Invitations were sent to students’ UT Arlington e-mail address. The sender is UT Arlington Student Feedback Survey (SFS), and the subject is UTA Values Your Input! You will receive separate emailed invitations for each enrolled course.

All surveys must be completed during the time frame specified in the invitation emails. Access to this semester's surveys will end at 11 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5.

Student input to the SFS process is anonymous. Faculty members will receive summary reports only after the semester has ended and final grades have been posted.

For more information, see Student Feedback Surveys.

Live, it's Seth Meyers Seth Meyers not only brought his Saturday Night Live comedy act to College Park Center last week, but he also invited students onto the stage during his performance, which drew the largest crowd of any Maverick Speakers Series event. Watch President James D. Spaniolo's "Weekend Update"-style introduction of Meyers and see more photos.

UT Arlington partners with EPA to reduce food waste

UT Arlington is among seven universities partnering with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to reduce food waste as part of the national Food Recovery Challenge.

The goals of this voluntary program are to limit the 34 million tons of food wasted nationwide annually by reducing unnecessary consumption and increasing composting and donations to charity. By joining the Food Recovery Challenge, participating schools pledge to reduce food waste by five percent in one year.

The Office of Campus Sustainability set up the partnership with the EPA. Read more at reducing food waste.

Toy drive includes Planetarium discount

The Planetarium is collecting toys for Cook Children’s Medical Center. Help make the holidays a little brighter by donating a new, unwrapped toy. Starting Thursday, Dec. 6, bring donations to the Planetarium ticket booth in the Chemistry and Physics Building.

In return, receive a $2 discount on any adult ticket through Sunday, Dec. 30.

Need ideas on what to donate? See the Cook Children’s wish list.

First Street closed

East First Street, from Mesquite Street to Center Street, will be closed for reconstruction through Saturday, Dec. 15.

Adopt an angel for the holiday season

Help a child or senior citizen have a special holiday season this year by giving to the annual Salvation Army Angel Tree, hosted by UTA Volunteers and the Leadership Center.

Angels are available for adoption through Monday, Dec. 3. To pick up an angel, stop by the Leadership Center, Suite B160, on the lower level of the E.H. Hereford University Center. Gifts must be returned to the Leadership Center by Wednesday, Dec. 5.

For more information, call 817-272-9220 or contact Loretta Pequeño-Griffin at lgriffin@uta.edu.

Use Maverick discounts to save money

Watch your budget this holiday season by taking advantage of the Maverick Discount Program.

Students, faculty, staff, and parents can utilize the discounts by simply showing their Maverick ID to local business participants or by using a unique UT Arlington discount code to shop online. Participating businesses provide a minimum 10 percent discount.

First-class district President James D. Spaniolo, right, celebrates the dedication of the College Park District with the Rev. Dennis Wiles, left, senior pastor of First Baptist Church-Arlington, and Arlington Mayor Robert Cluck at a ceremony last week. The festivities included a virtual ribbon cutting and virtual tour of the district. See more photos.

Nominate professors for doctoral student mentoring award

The Office of Graduate Studies is accepting nominations for this year's Graduate Dean's Award for Excellence in Doctoral Student Mentoring.

The award is for faculty members with a strong record of excellence in mentoring graduate students. Effective mentoring is a crucial determinant of the academic and professional success of a graduate student.

See the call for nominations and the nomination form. Deadline for nominations is Friday, Nov. 30. For details, contact Lisa Berry at lberry@uta.edu.

Influenza vaccine offered through Health Services

Flu shots are now available for $20 at Health Services. No appointment is needed. Leave your cash at home and charge to your MyMav account.

Advanced Manufacturing Symposium set for Dec. 3

Students are invited to attend the Advanced Manufacturing Symposium on Monday, Dec. 3, at the UT Arlington Research Institute. The program runs 1-5 p.m. and features talks on manufacturing in micro-nano scales, low- to medium-volume manufacturing, and other topics.

Students can participate in the poster session, which starts at 4 p.m.

Find more information on the Research Institute's website, including details of free transportation for students.

Enjoy UT Arlington Day at Christkindl

Do some holiday shopping at the second annual Arlington Christkindl Market on UT Arlington Day, Sunday, Dec. 2.

The market follows in the tradition of German markets during the holiday season with German cuisine, beverages, entertainment, arts, crafts, and gifts for sale. The market is open Nov. 29-Dec. 15 and is located at Road to Six Flags and Ballpark Way.

Pick up Christkindl (Kris-kin-dill) Cash, good for shopping and dining discounts, at the UT Arlington College Town booth.

The UT Arlington Jazz Ensemble performs 3-5 p.m. Sunday, and University emcees will appear on stage throughout the day.

Admission and parking are free.

MyEdu new aid for planning class schedule

MyEdu has partnered with UT Arlington to help you plan your schedule for the spring 2013 term. From the University College website, click on Plan My Schedule to get started.

Fall final exam schedule available

The final exam schedule for the fall term is available online. Finals are scheduled Thursday-Wednesday, Dec. 6-12.

Spring registration is open; see your adviser now

Make plans to register for winter intersession and spring 2013 terms. The schedule of classes and the registration timetable are available on the MyMav portal page.

Check your Student Center in MyMav to see if you need to meet with your academic adviser before registering. A list of advising offices is online. Call to schedule an appointment or check walk-in hours.

Tuesday, Nov. 27

Deck the Mall A celebration of the winter season as lights are illuminated. Food, activities, and more. Free. 6:30 p.m., Library mall. EXCEL Campus Activities.

Symphonic Band Concert Conducted by John Zastoupil, associate director of bands. Guest conductor is Jason Baker, graduate teaching assistant. Free. 7:30 p.m., Irons Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building. Music.

Thursday, Nov. 29

Lantern Festival Enjoy a lion and dragon dance as you explore a special Silk Road market featuring interactive booths and games. Part of Asian Heritage Month. Free. 4 p.m., Palo Duro Lounge, E.H. Hereford University Center. Multicultural Affairs.

UTA Choirs in Concert The A Cappella Choir and the University Singers present choral music. Tickets $3 with student ID. 7:30 p.m., Irons Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building. Music.

Friday, Nov. 30

Friday Night Movie: Elf Free popcorn; concessions available. Free. 8 p.m., Rosebud Theatre, E.H. Hereford University Center. EXCEL Campus Activities.

Movin' Mavs Basketball Tournament Wheelchair basketball community tournament, Maverick Activities Center and Physical Education Building. Free. Movin' Mavs vs. Dallas, 7:45 p.m., PEB. Also Saturday, Dec. 1, vs. San Antonio, 11:30 a.m., MAC; vs. Austin, 4:45 p.m., MAC; vs. Dallas, 8 p.m., PEB. Movin' Mavs.

Saturday, Dec. 1

Holiday Lights Parade Watch the holiday pageantry that ends with the lighting of the tree at City Hall. Look for the UT Arlington entries in the parade. Take a photo with Santa and enjoy caroling after the parade at the Levitt Pavilion in Founders Plaza, 100 W. Abram St. 6 p.m., Downtown Arlington. Arlington Holiday Lights Parade.

Sunday, Dec. 2

Faculty Percussion Recital Features Jim Yakas, percussion instructor. Free. 7:30 p.m., Irons Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building. Music.

Monday, Dec. 3

BFA Exhibition Recent work created by 60 graduating seniors of the Department of Art and Art History is showcased in a variety of media including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, glass, printmaking, film/video, photography, and visual communication. Through Saturday, Dec. 15. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, noon-5 p.m. Saturdays, The Gallery at UTA, Fine Arts Building. Art and Art History.

Spa Retreat Take a break from finals with free food, games, haircuts, and styles. Learn how to deal with stress and test anxiety in a relaxing spa setting. Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Palo Duro Lounge, E.H. Hereford University Center. Health Services.

Tuesday, Dec. 4

Guest Artist Violin Recital Features Juliana Athayde, associate professor of violin at the Eastman School of Music. Free. 7:30 p.m., Irons Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building. Music.

Women's Basketball 7 p.m. vs. UT Pan American. Also 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22 vs. Oklahoma State. Tickets $3 with student ID. College Park Center. Athletics.

Wednesday, Dec. 5

Evening with Authors Faculty members Myrtle Bell, Robert Bing, Marvin Dulaney, Cedrick May, and Jason Shelton provide brief narratives of books they have written. Books available for purchase. Refreshments served. Free. 5 p.m., University Club, Davis Hall. Center for African American Studies.

Coming up

Happy Holidays Gift Market Meet artisans and collectors while visiting DIY craft tables and shopping. Noon-7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 7; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8; Maverick Activities Center.

BFA Exhibit Opening Reception Artists' reception and awards ceremony for the graduating seniors exhibiting their work in the Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition. Free. 5-7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 7, The Gallery at UTA, Fine Arts Building. Art and Art History.

Men's Basketball 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, vs. Houston Baptist; 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 29, vs. New Mexico State; 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 31, vs. Denver. Tickets $3 with student ID. College Park Center. Athletics.

Commencement December and summer graduates. See schedule. Friday-Sunday, Dec. 14-16, College Park Center.

Ongoing

Gallery 76102: A Study of Water and What Once Was a Forest Loli Kantor's documentary photography and Hiroko Kubo's sculptural exploration are revealed in this exhibit. Free. Gallery hours 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays; 4-8 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays. Through Friday, Nov. 30. Gallery 76102, Fort Worth Center.

African Art Collection Includes works collected by Jonathan Campbell, professor and chair of the Department of Biology, and his wife, Tanya Dowdey. Free. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Room 2109, Visual Resources Commons, Fine Arts Building. Through Friday, Dec. 21. African Art Collection.

India Unveiled: The Photography of Robert Arnett A collection of images highlighting the diversity of India and its various regions. Free. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, through Jan. 5, 2013, sixth floor parlor, Central Library. Special Collections.

Pearls of the Antilles: Printed Maps of Caribbean Islands A look at maps and how they reflect and shaped the histories of Caribbean islands. Free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, sixth floor parlor, Central Library. Through Feb. 9, 2013. Special Collections.

Planetarium Spacepark 360 is an out-of-this-world entertainment experience. Get transported to surreal vistas and experience the most thrilling amusement park rides the solar system has to offer. 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Planetarium.

(For an expanded list of events, see the UT Arlington Calendar.)

Tuesday, Nov. 27	Major Exploration Information and resources to help you select a major. Free. Noon-1 p.m., Room 303, Ransom Hall. University College, Success Series. Financial Literacy Program Representatives from Fannie Mae and Operation HOPE discuss credit and investing. Free. 1-3 p.m., Bluebonnet Ballroom, E.H. Hereford University Center. Student Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management.
Wednesday, Nov. 28	Coping with Depression Learn about the effects of depression and ways to cope with it. Register. Free. Noon-1 p.m., Room 303, Ransom Hall. University College, Counseling Services. Diversity Lecture Series Kathy Obear, president of Alliance for Change, discusses "Creating an Inclusive, Socially Just Campus Community." Free. 7 p.m., Bluebonnet Ballroom, E.H. Hereford University Center. Multicultural Affairs.
Thursday, Nov. 29	World AIDS Day Educational information and snacks. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Palo Duro Lounge, E.H. Hereford University Center. Health Services. Introduction to Adobe Photoshop Bring an image into Photoshop and be amazed at how you turned a dull photo into a masterpiece. Free. 2-4 p.m., Digital Media Studio, Room B29, Central Library. Digital Media Studio. Biology Colloquium Series Lynda Delph, right, professor of biology at Indiana University, discusses "Sexual Selection and Sexual Dimorphism in a Dioecious Plant: An Ecological and Quantitative Genetic Perspective." Free. 4 p.m., Room 119, Life Science Building. Biology. Mike Moses K-16 Leadership Speaker Series Thomas Bellamy, professor of education and founding director at the Goodlad Institute for Educational Renewal, discusses "Bottom-Up Innovation or Policy-Driven Reform: Changing." Free. 5:30 p.m., sixth floor atrium, Central Library. Education and Health Professions.
Friday, Nov. 30	Marketing Brown Bag Series Narayan Janakiraman, assistant professor of marketing, is guest speaker. Free. 12:30-2 p.m., Room 609, Business Building. Business. CPR/Automatic External Defibrillator Covers first-aid basics, medical emergencies, injury emergencies, environmental emergencies, adult CPR, and AED use. Participants who successfully complete the class will receive an American Heart Association certification card valid for two years. Register at Maverick Activities Center service and information desk. $40. 1-5 p.m., Room 102B, Maverick Activities Center. Campus Recreation. Managing Your Research Data Learn specific phases for working with data. Discover the best practices necessary to maintain data integrity so that your results are useful to the expansion of your field. Lunch provided. Register. Free. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Room 303, Chemistry and Physics Building. Graduate Studies.
Wednesday, Dec. 5	Food for Thought: Healthy Lifestyle Goals Merge the seven goals developed by the American Heart Association into your lifestyle. Free. Noon-1 p.m., Room 213, Maverick Activities Center. Human Resources training classes.
(For an expanded list of events, see the UT Arlington Calendar.)

Community involvement: Co-captain Jorge Sanchez leads the Movin' Mavs in a community division tournament this weekend. Games will be played in the Physical Education Building and Maverick Activities Center. Admission is free.

Movin' Mavs host tournament

The Movin’ Mavs wheelchair basketball team hosts a community division tournament Friday-Sunday, Nov. 30-Dec. 2, with games at the Physical Education Building and Maverick Activities Center.

The schedule has the Movin’ Mavs playing Dallas at 7:45 p.m. Friday in the PEB. On Saturday, coach Doug Garner’s squad faces San Antonio at 11:30 a.m. and Austin at 4:45 p.m. in the MAC, and Dallas at 8 p.m. in the PEB. The tournament concludes with games at 9 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday in both venues.

After winning five straight in the collegiate tournament at Wisconsin-Whitewater earlier this month, the Movin’ Mavs are 9-0.

Mav men at North Texas, UT Austin this week

After notching its second win of the season last week, the men’s basketball team visits North Texas at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 28, and UT Austin at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1.

The Mavericks are 2-1 following a 65-58 win at Samford on Saturday. Kevin Butler led the Mavs with 15 points while Jordan Reves had 14 points and 12 rebounds.

Women start road trip tonight at Houston Baptist

Looking for its first win of the season, the women’s basketball team travels to Houston Baptist for a 7 p.m. game today, Tuesday, Nov. 27, before going to Nebraska-Omaha on Friday, Nov. 30, and Fresno State on Sunday, Dec. 2.

The Mavericks dropped to 0-4 with an 89-76 loss to Memphis last Wednesday despite 28 points from Malaika Green.

Gross earns All-WAC volleyball honor

Sophomore outside hitter Taylor Gross was named to the All-Western Athletic Conference second team.

The volleyball team lost to Utah State in the first round of the WAC tournament and finished the season with a record of 5-13 in the conference and 9-22 overall. There were no seniors on the squad. The Mavericks make the transition to the Sun Belt Conference next season.

(For more sports news, go to utamavs.com, uta.edu/movinmavs, or uta.edu/campusrec.)