Category: Uncategorized

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
– Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
– Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green  Room (across from G)
– Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

3. SHORT COURSES IN STATISTICS: ANALYZING REAL DATA
Tuesday, Apr 20, 5:00-7:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
This mini course focuses on analyzing real datasets submitted by the short course attendees. While working through specific examples, general themes and techniques of statistical analysis will be highlighted and discussed. It is anticipated that three datasets will be analyzed using statistical tools highlighted in the previous LISA Short Courses, though attending prior short courses is not required. Datasets will be selected based on appeal to a general audience and serving as good examples for common statistical techniques that the attendees can use on other datasets. If you think your data might be interesting, please email Dr. Vance. See the LISA website for instructions on how to register and to learn more. Refreshments will be provided at the end of this course!

4. DIALOGUE WITH THE DEAN
Tuesday, Apr 20, 12:00-1:15pm, Room B in the GLC
The Graduate Student Assembly will host the last “Dialogue with the Dean” this semester to let you ask the Dean of the Graduate School your most pressing questions. There will be free pizza and drinks too! Please register online. If you have further questions, please contact Jenna Rae Vercillo, GSA Events Chair, at Vercillo@vt.edu.

6. GLC FELLOWS HIKE
Saturday, Apr 24, meet at 10:30am in GLC Lobby
Join fellow graduate students for a springtime hike to the Cascades! Meet in the GLC lobby area and depart at approximately 10:45 a.m. The Cascades is a moderate hike that culminates in a beautiful setting with a roughly 70-foot tall waterfall. The total distance from the parking lot and back again is 4.0 miles. The Cascades is located just outside of Pembroke, VA and is only about 20 miles away from Blacksburg. There is a $3 parking pass at the trail entrance but there are no other costs associated with the trip. If you are interested in participating, complete this survey. Questions? Contact GLC Fellow Michael Sage.

7. ROCK CLIMBING WITH THE OUTDOORS CLUB
Sunday, Apr 25
Grad student and Outdoors Club member Ben Freedman invites fellow grad students to join a trip with Via-Ferrata in the Nelson Rock Preserve in WV for a group of about 20 people to do some rock climbing for an afternoon. This guided trip is great for beginners interested doing basic climbing as well as the more experienced climbers looking for a thrill. Harnesses, clips, helmets and gear are all supplied by Via Ferrata. After a few minutes of instruction and equipment rental, participants will be up on the cliff for about 3-4 hours. There are 8 spots left. Deadline is approaching ASAP. The cost of the trip is $53 per person, with a non-refundable $20 deposit due immediately to reserve a spot. Preference will be given to OCVT members. Please contact Ben Freedman (bfreed05@vt.edu) for more info or to reserve a spot.

8. VOLUNTEER USHERS SOUGHT FOR COMMENCEMENT
Volunteer ushers are sought for the Spring 2010 University Commencement ceremony on Friday, May 14 in Lane Stadium. Time commitment: 5:00–9:00pm. Ushers need to be at the stadium by 5:00pm to help families that start arriving two hours before the ceremony. Ushers greet guests in attendance (families and friends of the graduates); hand out commencement programs; direct visiting families where to sit, where to find restrooms, etc.; direct families as they arrive or leave the stadium. Special assignments may include working with impaired mobility guests, which requires more walk than other assignments. If you are interested in this assignment, please indicate this preference when you sign up. There will be several training sessions for ushers during the week of commencement. The training is about 45 minute long and will walk you through the stadium, explain the assignment and familiarize ushers with the stadium layout. Schedule: May 11, 12, and 13, 3:00-4:00pm. All volunteers must attend one of these sessions. To sign up, contact Christina McIntyre, cmcintyre@vt.edu.

9. PART-TME JOB OPPORTUNITY FOR RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER
The VT Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) is searching for a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) to serve as a part-time (20 hours/wk) Campus Peace Corps Recruiter. Successful candidate will serve as the main university and SW Virginia point of contact for students and others interested in joining the Peace Corps. Subject to the availability of funding, the position will begin fall semester 2010 and run through spring 2011. Interested persons should send a letter of application, a current resume, and names/addresses of three references to Alex Frane , 231-4266. Application deadline: Apr 30, 2010 or until filled. The successful candidate will be notified as soon as possible after selection. For further information, see the OIRED website.

10. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED NOW
Have you used your research to benefit society in any way? If so, consider applying for the Citizen Scholar award. Applications are due April 22, and program requirements can be found here. For more information, email Eric Hodges.

11. VETERANS SOUGHT FOR VT STUDY – 2nd posting
Military veterans are needed for a study relating to experiences and needs of military veterans at Virginia Tech. An interdisciplinary team of faculty, administrators, and graduate students will conduct this research. Graduate students who are military veterans are invited to participate in interviews no more than an hour long in order to gather information on veterans pursuing graduate education at Virginia Tech. Feel free to share this posting with friends who are military veterans and are pursuing graduate degrees at Virginia Tech. If you are interested in participating in this study or would like more information, please contact Carson Byrd.

12. NEED PARTICIPANTS FOR STROLLER SURVEY – 3rd posting
Data is needed from stroller users to apply to a new design as part of a VT research project. The estimated time to complete this survey is approximately ten minutes. There is no risk to survey participants. The survey is anonymous and the questions are created to simply gain stroller-user feedback. Participation in this research is completely voluntary. Complete the survey here.

13. PARTICIPANTS WANTED FOR FOOD CHOICE STUDY – 3rd posting
Parents and their children (ages 9 – 15) are sought to participate in hour-long interviews about their food choices. Families will be compensated $100. Contact ahamby@vt.edu or kdanilos@vt.edu for more information.

14. UPCOMING EVENTS:

INTERVIEWING BEYOND ACADEME SEMINAR
Monday, Apr 26, 3:00pm, Squires 341/345
Dr. Wendy Perry, Director of Graduate and Postdoctoral Professional Programs at the University of Virginia, will give a seminar on interviewing outside of academia. Dr. Perry will address some challenges PhDs face in interviews, typical interview questions, and how to get the most out of your interview. Please contact Meredith Katz with any questions.

CAMPUS SAFETY
Wednesday, Apr 28, 7:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Officer Allen from the VTPD will speak about different safety rules and tips to increase general awareness, which is a key factor in improving safety on campus. All members of the community are invited and encouraged to attend.

LUNCH WITH THE PRESIDENT – Sign up now
Friday, Apr 30, 12:00-1:30pm, The Inn at Virginia Tech
The Grad Rep to the BOV invites you to chat with President Steger, Provost McNamee, and Dean DePauw. Lunch will be provided. All graduate students are invited to attend. Sign up by April 23. Questions? Contact Rebecca French, Grad Rep to VT BOV.

GSA CASINO NIGHT
Friday, Apr 30, 7:00-10:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Celebrate the end of the semester in style at the GSA Casino Night. Come dressed in your formal attire and rack up the wins on a variety of Casino games (poker, craps, blackjack, roulette, etc.) hosted by professional dealers. Entry tickets can be purchased for $10 with just an additional $5 for games. Purchase online. Celebrate with amazing h’orderves, wine, beer, a DJ, dancing, and raffle tickets for prize drawings! Questions: Lindsay Moss.

GLSIZZLE (BBQ)
Sunday, May 2, 2:00pm, Duck Pond
You don’t have to live in the hizzle to attend this GLSizzle! Enjoy the sunshine, outdoor games, sweet music and a pot-luck style BBQ. All graduate students, family and friends are welcome. The GLC Fellows will
provide charcoal, all utensils and drinks, but organizers are relying on you to contribute a dish! Please help estimate attendance by filling out this survey. If you have questions, contact Lindsay Moss.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
– Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
– Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
– Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

2. SHORT COURSES IN STATISTICS: MULTIVARIATE METHODS
Monday, Apr 12, 5:00-7:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
This mini course focuses on common multivariate methods such as principal component analysis, factor analysis, Hotelling’s T2, etc. Each method will be introduced by identifying problems where it could be used, what kinds of assumptions are made, what kinds of interpretations they lead to, and some pros and cons of the method. A basic level of understanding of both statistics and matrix algebra will be very helpful to those in attendance. LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides this series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research.  The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data.  Register and learn more. Refreshments will be provided at the end of each short course! All courses are held in Fralin Auditorium from 5-7PM. Rest of Spring 2010 Schedule:

• April 20, Tuesday, Dr. Eric Vance – Analyzing Real Data

3. CONNECTIONS: A COMMUNITY ARTS PROJECT
Tuesday-Friday, Apr 13-16, GLC Multipurpose Room
The Connections project is an exciting opportunity for local creative professionals and VT students and professors to demonstrate their commitment to one another through art. As a cornerstone for Ut Prosim month, this forum will unveil and display numerous projects in the GLC Multipurpose Room. Additionally, many VT graduate students will be presenting their research interests and/or projects in an effort to promote their commitment to citizen scholar engagement in the community. For more information, contact project leader Deepu George.

4. GLOBAL DIALOGUE/CONNECTIONS ART PROJECT
Wednesday, Apr 14, 6:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Graduate Dean Karen DePauw hosts this reception and program for graduate students, featuring “Connections: A Community Art Project,” and an opportunity to meet and engage with international visitors through the Global Dialogue project. Visit this website for a complete listing of Global Dialogue programs. 

5. HOKIES HONORING HAITI
Thursday, Apr 15, various times and locations
Four months ago the Republic of Haiti was impacted by a 7.0 earthquake that caused widespread destruction and death. From the onset, the VT community came together to provide support and assistance to the Haitian people. All events are free (unless otherwise noted) and open to the public. Review the full listing of events and details.

6. A TRIBUTE TO HAITI & UT PROSIM
Thursday, Apr 15, 7:00pm, Burruss Hall
Hear an update from Haiti’s Ambassador to the US, Raymond Joseph, about Haiti’s earthquake recover and learn about ongoing VT service projects in Haiti. Celebrate Ut Prosim with string performances, signing, and a steel drum orchestra. This event is coordinated by the Center for Student Engagement and Community Partnerships and several graduate students. Contact Dr. Jim Dubinsky for more information.

REMEMBER: NO CLASSES ON FRIDAY, APR 16

7. HOKIE STONE
Friday, Apr 16, 11:00am–3:00pm, Squires Colonial Hall
The Day of Remembrance offers the first Hokie Stone: An Event of Student-Shared Knowledge, a showcase of presentations from VT students. Live streaming video of the event will bring together Hokies from all around the world in an effort to respectfully remember and honor those lost. Hokie Stone is based on TED and focuses on three central themes “Invent, Change, and Sustain.”   Presentations include education, entrepreneurship, a dance performance, poetry reading, sustainability in food production, and many others. More information.  Support the beginning of a new tradition by attending.

8. MOVIE NIGHT IN THE GLC: UP
Friday, Apr 16, 7:30-9:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
The GLC Fellows will be showing UP, a heartwarming animated movie. Join your fellow graduate students to watch this movie and relax at the end of a long week. If you are interested in attending, please fill out this survey to help organizers plan for popcorn and lemonade. If you have any questions, contact Josey Chacko.

9. BOB DUNCAN 5K RUN/WALK
Saturday, Apr 17, 11:00am, VT Cross Country Course
Registration: $20 before Apr 3. Join veterinary students and support the Vet School and the Diagnostic Pathology Scholarship.  Entry fee includes t-shirt, race support, finish-line food, music, and great door prizes.  Visit  the event site for more information or contact Ellen Binder  with questions

10. THE BIG EVENT
Saturday, Apr 17, 11:00am-3:00pm
Want to get together with your fellow graduate students and other Hokies to help out the Blacksburg community? The Big Event is back! If you are interested in being part of the Graduate Students Team, please register online. You can create an account and then click to volunteer with the GSA Team. Please contact Jenna Rae Vercillo, GSA Events Chair, for detailed directions about registration!

11. NEED INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR HONORS/AWARDS/SCHOLARSHIPS for 2009-10
Every year since 2004-05 the Graduate School has published Graduate Students of Distinction,  an online document listing awards, honors, fellowships and scholarships received by graduate students. Please let us know of any honors, awards, etc. that you have received since April 2009 by completing a quick, simple survey  by April 15.

12. PART-TME JOB OPPORTUNITY FOR RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER
The VT Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) is searching for a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) to serve as a part-time (20 hours/wk) Campus Peace Corps Recruiter. Successful candidate will serve as the main university and SW Virginia point of contact for students and others interested in joining the Peace Corps.  Subject to the availability of funding, the position will begin fall semester 2010 and run through spring 2011.  Interested persons should send a letter of application, a current resume, and names/addresses of three references to Alex Frane, phone 231-4266.  Application deadline: Apr 30, 2010 or until filled.  The successful candidate will be notified as soon as possible after selection.  For further information, see OIRED website.

13. SUMMER JOB OPPORTUNITY
University Studies is seeking orientation assistants to work with academic advisors Jul 7-23. Approximately 1500 new students and their families will participate in Summer Orientation in July. Orientation assistants help with check-in process at the Math Emporium, direct flow of traffic and answer parent questions, support advisors, help students w/ Hokie SPA and timetable, and other support as needed. Must be able to work 7:45am-12:00pm Tue-Fri and on other days and times for training, must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and be able to lift up to 15 lbs. Send resume and cover letter to Jennie Kelly by Apr 19, 117 Femoyer Hall.

14. PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE JOURNAL EDITORIAL BOARD CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
Are you looking for an opportunity to serve the graduate student community in a scholarly fashion and build experience working with a peer-reviewed scholarly journal? If yes, consider applying for a position on the Editorial Board of the interdisciplinary student journal Public Knowledge Journal (ISSN 1948-3511).  Contact the current Editor-in-Chief to learn more about the available positions, or read about each position on the editor recruitment page. The deadline for applications (statement of interest, CV, and contact information) is April 15, 2010.  Please contact Kim Carlson with questions or concerns.

15. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED NOW
Have you used your research to benefit society in any way?  If so, consider applying for the Citizen Scholar award. Applications are due April 22; review program requirements on the CSE website. For more information, email Eric Hodges.

16. CONVERSATION PARTNERS SOUGHT FOR HUMPHREY FELLOWS
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Long Term English Training Program is a signature initiative of the VT Language and Culture Institute (LCI). LCI is looking for 20 conversation partners who are asked to volunteer one hour per week to speak with one of the Humphrey fellows. All of the fellows are visiting international mid-career professionals.  The conversation times and locations would be arranged between individual partners and fellows, and the topics of conversation would be informal. This is an opportunity for friendship and sharing information about personal experience, interests, hobbies, and the local community. If interested in becoming a conversation partner, please contact Letitia Montgomery-Rodgers. Conversation partners will be paired by the third week of April and have a meet and greet event. The program runs from April through mid August. The Fellowship is a Fulbright exchange activity, administered by the Institute of International Education.  More information on the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is available here.

17. VETERANS SOUGHT FOR VT STUDY – 1st posting
Military veterans are needed for a study relating to experiences and needs of military veterans at Virginia Tech. An interdisciplinary team of faculty, administrators, and graduate students will conduct this research. Graduate students who are military veterans are invited to participate in interviews no more than an hour long in order to gather information on veterans pursuing graduate education at Virginia Tech.  Feel free to share this posting with friends who are military veterans and are pursuing graduate degrees at Virginia Tech.  If you are interested in participating in this study or would like more information, please contact Carson Byrd.

18. NEED PARTICIPANTS FOR STROLLER SURVEY – 2nd posting
Data is needed from stroller users to apply to a new design as part of a VT research project. The estimated time to complete this survey is approximately ten minutes. There is no risk to survey participants. The survey is anonymous and the questions are created to simply gain stroller-user feedback. Participation in this research is completely voluntary. Complete the survey.

19. PARTICIPANTS WANTED FOR FOOD CHOICE STUDY – 2nd posting
Parents and their children (ages 9 – 15) are sought to participate in hour-long interviews about their food choices.  Families will be compensated $100. Contact kdanilos@vt.edu for more information.

20. RESEARCH SUBJECTS NEEDED FOR BIOMECHANICS STUDY – 3rd posting
Research subjects are needed for a study to investigate various aspects of balance in the Kevin P. Granata Biomechanics Lab.  Subjects must be aged 18-28, and will be paid $10/hour for their participation. If you are interested, please email Sara Matrangola and include the following information in the body of the email: name, age, gender, height, weight.

21. GRADUATE STUDENT WAITLIST FOR 2010-11 HOUSING AVAILABLE NOW – 3rd posting
Graduate students interested in living on-campus in either the Graduate Life Center or in Main Campbell Hall will need to sign up on the waitlist online in order to be considered for housing. Room and board rates for next year are not yet available, but they will be posted as soon as possible.  Offers to eligible students will be sent every 2-3 weeks via email until all of the beds are filled.

22. CALL FOR PROPOSALS – 3rd posting
The VT Center for Peace Studies and Violence Prevention is accepting proposals for the first ACCIAC Student Research Symposium, Cultivating Peace: A Symposium for Violence Prevention, to take place on Nov 12–14, 2010, on campus in conjunction with VT’s International Summit on Transdisciplinary Approaches to Violence Prevention.  Proposals may include both individual and collaborative work from diverse fields and in a range of presentation formats, such as papers, oral or poster presentations, and multi-media projects.  Topics of particular interest include: campus violence prevention and university community partnerships, violence prevention in socioeconomic and cultural context, sustainable development and peace, social media and violence, and creatively fostering nonviolence: peace, the arts, and literature.  Individuals and teams should submit one-page proposals for review by April 30, 2010.  Please contact Dr. Marc Lucht with any questions.

23. UPCOMING EVENTS:

DIALOGUE WITH THE DEAN
Tuesday, Apr 20, 5:30-6:45pm, Room G in the GLC
The Graduate Student Assembly will host the last “Dialogue with the Dean” this semester to let you ask the Dean of the Graduate School your most pressing questions. There will be free pizza and drinks too! Please register online. If you have further questions, please contact GSA Events Chair Jenna Rae Vercillo.

“WHAT EDITORS REALLY WANT” WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Apr 21, 9:00am-4:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
This workshop is offered to faculty, researchers, postdocs, and graduate students to teach them how to select the right journal for their papers, how to manage citations, how to respond to reviewers’ comments, do’s and don’ts of manuscript submission, writing a cover letter and more. Register by April 16 by contacting Dr. Janet Webster, 231-9547.

GLC FELLOWS HIKE
Saturday, Apr 24, meet at 10:30am in GLC Lobby
Join fellow graduate students for a springtime hike to the Cascades! Meet in the GLC lobby area and depart at approximately 10:45 a.m. The Cascades is a moderate hike that culminates in a beautiful setting with a roughly 70-foot tall waterfall. The total distance from the parking lot and back again is 4.0 miles. The Cascades is located just outside of Pembroke, VA and is only about 20 miles away from Blacksburg. There is a $3 parking pass at the trail entrance but there are no other costs associated with the trip. If you are interested in participating, contact GLC Fellow Michael Sage.

LUNCH WITH THE PRESIDENT – Sign up now
Friday, Apr 30, 12:00-1:30pm, The Inn at Virginia Tech
The Grad Rep to the BOV invites you to chat with President Steger, Provost McNamee, and Dean DePauw. Lunch will be provided. All graduate students are invited to attend. Sign up by April 23.  Questions? Contact Rebecca French, Grad Rep to VT BOV.

GSA CASINO NIGHT
Friday, Apr 30, 7:00-10:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Celebrate the end of the semester in style at the GSA Casino Night.  Come dressed in your formal attire and rack up the wins on a variety of Casino games (poker, craps, blackjack, roulette, etc.) hosted by professional dealers.  Entry tickets can be purchased for $10 with just an additional $5 for games.  Purchase tickets online. Celebrate with amazing h’orderves, wine, beer, a DJ, dancing, and raffle tickets for prize drawings!  Questions: Lindsay Moss. 

DOG WALK
Saturday, May 1, 2:00pm, meet in GLC Lobby and Otey Street entrance
Grab your four-legged friend and join fellow grads and families to enjoy the spring weather on the Huckleberry Trail. Meet inside (if w/o dog) or outside at the Otey Street entrance to depart together for the trail.  Plastic bags and treats will be provided! Questions: Lindsay Moss.

GLSIZZLE (BBQ)
Sunday, May 2, 2:00pm, Duck Pond
You don’t have to live in the hizzle to attend this GLSizzle! Enjoy the sunshine, outdoor games, sweet music and a pot-luck style BBQ.  All graduate students, family and friends are welcome.  The GLC Fellows will provide charcoal, all utensils and drinks, but organizers are relying on you to contribute a dish! Please help estimate attendance by filling out this survey. Questions: Lindsay Moss.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
– Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
– Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
– Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

2. NEED INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR HONORS/AWARDS/SCHOLARSHIPS for 2009-10
Every year since 2004-05 the Graduate School has published Graduate Students of Distinction,  an online document listing awards, honors, fellowships and scholarships received by graduate students. Please let us know of any honors, awards, etc. that you have received since April 2009 by completing this quick, simple survey by April 15.

3. JEWISH STUDENT UNION EXEC BOARD INTEREST MEETINGS
Monday and Tuesday, Apr 5 and 6, 5:00pm, Multicultural Ctr, Squires
The Jewish Student Union (JSU) will hold two interest meetings regarding the upcoming JSU executive board elections. Both meetings will cover the same information – attend one of these sessions to find out more about JSU and leadership opportunities in its exec board. JSU serves as a unifying body for its constituent organizations and coordinates their efforts, including AEPi, CEI, Friends of Israel, Hillel, Kesher, Mazon, SAEPi, and Teva. Open positions include President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Contact Rachel Lamanna for more information.

4. SHORT COURSES IN STATISTICS: GENERAL LINEAR MODELS
Tuesday, Apr 6, 5:00-7:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
This mini course focuses on appropriate model building using generalized linear models, introducing attendees to linear models used for non-Normal data, with an emphasis on categorical response data such as binary or count. The most common way to analyze a binary response (Y/N or 0/1 outcomes) is the Logistic regression model; to analyze a count response (whole numbers) is the Poisson regression model. The course will explain these two models in detail, how to interpret the results, and work through examples of the application of each model using statistical package JMP. All produced output will also be explained. LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides this series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research.  The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data.  Refreshments will be provided at the end of each short course! All courses are held in Fralin Auditorium from 5-7PM. Rest of Spring 2010 Schedule:

• April 12, Monday, Nels Johnson and Matt Williams – Multivariate Regression
• April 20, Tuesday, Dr. Eric Vance – Analyzing Real Data

5. PEACE CORPS INFORMATION SESSION
Wednesday, Apr 7, 6:00-7:00pm, Squires Student Center, Room 342
Attend this special info session to learn more about Peace Corps service! A video presentation featuring the experiences and projects of a variety of volunteers in their host countries will be followed by a Q&A session. Presenters will review a variety of Peace Corps projects, including agriculture, English teaching, water & sanitation, NGO development, and business advising, and youth development. Don’t miss this chance to get an in depth review of the qualifications and process of becoming a volunteer. Contact Alex Frane for more info.

6. FREE FUNDRAISER YOGA CLASSES AT IN BALANCE YOGA STUDIO
Thursday, Apr 8, 4:00pm, In Balance Yoga Studio, downtown Blacksburg
Suggested donation $10/class (donations over $10 are entered into raffle). Money raised will be donated to Bike the US for MS as they collect funds to donate to a Multiple Sclerosis Clinic in Charlottesville, VA. Bike the US for MS organizes yearly cross-country bike trips during the summer to fundraise and volunteer to raise awareness and money for Multiple Sclerosis clinics and research. To sign up for the yoga classes, please call In Balance Yoga Studio, 961-1030. Find out more about Bike the US for MS. This message is posted on behalf of vet med student Carmen Ledesma.

7. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT
Thursday, Apr 8, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center Conference Room
Weekly drop-in evening child care program for kids: If you need a break, must catch up on work or want to attend a lecture, drop off your kids aged 2-12 at the Women’s Center for a couple of hours. Childcare provided by the women of Chi Delta Alpha sorority.  Additional April dates are 4/15, 4/22, and 4/29.  For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner.

8. FULBRING AFTERNOON TEA SERIES
Friday, Apr 9, 23 and 30, 3:00-4:30pm, Hillcrest Livingroom
If you are interested in traveling, exploring other cultures, and applying for a Fulbright Scholarship, attend some of the weekly Fulbright Fridays Afternoon Tea. Come when you can, leave when you need to. Remaining topics: Apr 9: Mary Marchant – Italy; Apr 23: Robin Panneton –Canada; Apr 30 – Matthew McMullen – Germany.

9. STEM CELL BONE MARROW DRIVE FOR RECENT GRAD STUDENT
Friday, Apr 9, 3:00-9:00pm, 124 War Memorial
A recent graduate students and TA in the biology department needs a bone marrow donor. He was recently diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer, multiple myeloma. He needs a transplant and neither of his sisters is a match. There will be another bone marrow drive through the Be A Match registry at the same time as Relay For Life to help him and others needing a match. An information booth will be in at the Relay event on the Drillfield, and the drive will be in War Memorial. Questions, contact Addie Sanders at 704-942- 6971 or Paul Stevens.

10. BIKE TO UGANDA ON APR 10 – FUNDRAISER
Saturday, Apr 10, 12:00-5:00pm, Weight Club in University Mall
A grad student-led organization, Poverty Awareness Coalition for Equality (PACE), and the Weight Club will host the second annual Bike to Uganda event for members of VT and the surrounding community to collectively bike the distance to Uganda, and for each mile raise money to build a school in Uganda. Sign up today for a vigorous spin class for a great cause (you do not need to be a weight club member to participate). Register here.  For registering and meeting your minimum fundraising goal ($25/ first hour, $10/each additional hour) you will get a free T-shirt, a raffle ticket for a chance to win great local prizes, and an after party with free food at the Weight Club. Prize for the top fund-raiser is a brand new Trek FX 7.3 bike from East Coasters!  Please contact randihl@vt.edu or jarnagin@vt.edu for more information, or visit onepace.org for details about PACE and events.

11. CROC TOURS AVAILABLE NOW – THIS IS NOT AN APRIL FOOL’S PRANK
Based on popular demand, CROC tours that were advertised in our April Fool’s edition are becoming a reality. CROC inmates are making their cell available for public viewing. If you are interested in visiting the Coolest Room On Campus (CROC) [as advertised on April 1, 2010] please register for a guided tour. Surely you have 20  minutes to spare this week to be dazzled by the CROC!
   
12. JOB OPENING IN SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AID (OSFA)
OSFA is looking for a Community Service Coordinator to work with the off-campus federal work-study program, including the Literacy Corp Program and direct supervision of the Literacy Corp Coordinator(s). Incumbent is responsible for supervision of two work-study Literacy Corp Coordinators; serves as main contact for students and employers for the Community Service Federal Work Study Program; processes all paperwork for this program; actively works with the Asst Director to increase the number of Community Service agencies that hire VT federal work-study students and other duties. The successful candidate must be enrolled in (or accepted into) a masters or doctoral program, have strong communication and organizational skills, be able to work well with the public and undergraduate students, be able to work independently, and have basic skills in Access, Excel and Word. Preference will be given to candidates who have experience in community service work and some supervision experience. Begins in Fall 2010 as a FWS hourly wage position, but has the potential to turn into a Graduate Assistantship as of Spring 2011. Pay rate: $15/hr, 20 hours a week, M-F. To apply, call for an appointment: Wendy Meehan, 231-1447. 

13. SUMMER JOB OPPORTUNITY
University Studies is seeking orientation assistants to work with academic advisors Jul 7-23. Approximately 1500 new students and their families will participate in Summer Orientation in July. Orientation assistants help with check-in process at the Math Emporium, direct flow of traffic and answer parent questions, support advisors, help students w/ Hokie SPA and timetable, and other support as needed. Must be able to work 7:45am-12:00pm Tue-Fri and on other days and times for training, must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and be able to lift up to 15 lbs. Send resume and cover letter to Jennie Kelly by Apr 19, 117 Femoyer Hall.

14. PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE JOURNAL EDITORIAL BOARD CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
Are you looking for an opportunity to serve the graduate student community in a scholarly fashion and build experience working with a peer-reviewed scholarly journal? If yes, consider applying for a position on the Editorial Board of the interdisciplinary student journal Public Knowledge Journal (ISSN 1948-3511).  Contact the current Editor-in-Chief to learn more about the available positions, or read about each position on the editor recruitment page. The deadline for applications (statement of interest, CV, and contact information) is April 15, 2010.  Please contact Kim Carlson  with questions or concerns.

15. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED NOW
Have you used your research to benefit society in any way?  If so, consider applying for the Citizen Scholar award. Applications are due April 22, and program requirements can be found on the CSE website. For more information, email Eric Hodges at hodgeseb@vt.edu.

16. NEED PARTICIPANTS FOR STROLLER SURVEY – 1st posting
Data is needed from stroller users to apply to a new design as part of a VT research project. The estimated time to complete this survey is approximately ten minutes. There is no risk to survey participants. The survey is anonymous and the questions are created to simply gain stroller-user feedback. Participation in this research is completely voluntary. Complete the survey.

17. PARTICIPANTS WANTED FOR FOOD CHOICE STUDY – 1st posting
Parents and their children (ages 9 – 15) are sought to participate in hour-long interviews about their food choices.  Families will be compensated $100. Contact kdanilos@vt.edu for more information.

18. RESEARCH SUBJECTS NEEDED FOR BIOMECHANICS STUDY – 2nd posting
Research subjects are needed for a study to investigate various aspects of balance in the Kevin P. Granata Biomechanics Lab.  Subjects must be aged 18-28, and will be paid $10/hour for their participation. If you are interested, please email Sara Matrangola and include the following information in the body of the email: name, age, gender, height, weight.

19. iPHONE STUDY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 3rd posting
Participants sought for a study on mobile information in everyday human activity to explore how iPhone users look up and capture information with their device in their everyday activities. The study consists of three parts, including a short questionnaire, a diary study, and a follow-up interview. Two $25 gift cards will be raffled off among active participants in the diary study, those who participate in the follow-up interview get a $10 gift card. Must be at least 18 years old, own and use an iPhone for at least 6 months, and have an unlimited data plan from your wireless provider. Please contact Ricardo for more details.

20. STUDY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT TO EVALUATE LEARNING ASSESSMENT TOOL – 3rd posting
Doctoral student in the VT School of Education is looking for graduate students to evaluate a learning assessment tool developed as part of a dissertation research. The evaluation is one-on-one, conducted in the Educational Technology Lab in 220 War Memorial Hall. The entire process can be completed in about 1.5 hours. If you are interested or have questions, please email to Jianhua Liu.

21. GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT FOR LEADERSHIP PROGRAM – 3rd posting
The Department of Student Activities is seeking graduate students to serve as small group facilitators for an undergraduate leadership development program, Leadership Tech. Facilitators will work in teams of two or three to guide a group of 10-15 junior and/or senior students organized around one of the following issues: Environmental Sustainability, Community Vitality, Social Justice, Global Issues, Multiculturalism, and Health and Wellness. Positions open until filled. Submit your resume to Allison Dunn, adunn@vt.edu, and complete the application. An interview will be scheduled for those who meet minimum qualifications. Questions: contact Allison Dunn.

22. GRADUATE STUDENT WAITLIST FOR 2010-11 HOUSING AVAILABLE NOW – 2nd posting
Graduate students interested in living on-campus in either the Graduate Life Center or in Main Campbell Hall will need to sign up on the waitlist online in order to be considered for housing. Room and board rates for next year are not yet available, but they will be posted as soon as possible.  Offers to eligible students will be sent every 2-3 weeks via email until all of the beds are filled.

23. CALL FOR PROPOSALS – 2nd posting
The VT Center for Peace Studies and Violence Prevention is accepting proposals for the first ACCIAC Student Research Symposium, Cultivating Peace: A Symposium for Violence Prevention, to take place on Nov 12–14, 2010, on campus in conjunction with VT’s International Summit on Transdisciplinary Approaches to Violence Prevention.  Proposals may include both individual and collaborative work from diverse fields and in a range of presentation formats, such as papers, oral or poster presentations, and multi-media projects.  Topics of particular interest include: campus violence prevention and university community partnerships, violence prevention in socioeconomic and cultural context, sustainable development and peace, social media and violence, and creatively fostering nonviolence: peace, the arts, and literature.  Individuals and teams should submit one-page proposals for review by April 30, 2010.  Please contact Dr. Marc Lucht, with any questions.

24. UPCOMING EVENTS:

MOVIE NIGHT IN THE GLC: UP
Friday, Apr 16, 7:30-9:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
The GLC Fellows will be showing UP, a heartwarming animated movie. Join your fellow graduate students to watch this movie and relax at the end of a long week. If you are interested in attending, please fill out this survey to help organizers plan for popcorn and lemonade. If you have any questions, contact Josey Chacko.

BOB DUNCAN 5K RUN/WALK
Saturday, Apr 17, 11:00am, VT Cross Country Course
Registration: $20 before Apr 3. Join veterinary students and support the Vet School and the Diagnostic Pathology Scholarship.  Entry fee includes t-shirt, race support, finish-line food, music, and great door prizes.  Visit  the event site for more information or contact Ellen Binder  with questions

“WHAT EDITORS REALLY WANT” WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Apr 21, 9:00am-4:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
This workshop is offered to faculty, researchers, postdocs, and graduate students to teach them how to select the right journal for their papers, how to manage citations, how to respond to reviewers’ comments, do’s and don’ts of manuscript submission, writing a cover letter and more. Register by April 16 by contacting Dr. Janet Webster, 231-9547.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC

• Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
• Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
• Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

2. CALL FOR LISTSERV POSTING SUBMISSIONS FOR APR 1 SPECIAL EDITION
Here is your opportunity to get published in a peer-viewed online weekly non-journal! Submit your fake event description, faux call for research subjects, and other nonexistent opportunities for graduate students for the April 1 special edition of the GLC weekly listserv posting. Exercise your imagination and writing skills and earn extra points (in the form of chocolates and candy in 117 GLC) for creative event or research idea, succinct description, and completeness of details. Submission deadline: March 31, 5:00pm. Send to gibsonm@vt.edu, with subject line: You are a fool.

3. SHORT COURSES IN STATISTICS: REGRESSION
Monday, Mar 29, 5:00-7:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
During this session participants will learn about the use of regression analysis to study the relationship between a response variable and one or more explanatory variables, and will be introduced to simple linear regression and multiple linear regression. Regression models, assumptions and interpretation will also be covered. Graphical methods useful for understanding relationships and checking assumptions are described and illustrated using the SAS software package. LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research.  The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data.  Register and learn more. Refreshments will be provided at the end of each short course! All courses are held in Fralin Auditorium from 5-7PM. Rest of Spring 2010 Schedule:

• April 6, Tuesday, Mark Seiss – General Linear Models
• April 12, Monday, Nels Johnson and Matt Williams – Multivariate Regression
• April 20, Tuesday, Dr. Eric Vance – Analyzing Real Data

4. PANEL DISCUSSION ON SEXUALITY AND HUMAN RIGHTS IN VA
Tuesday, Mar 30, 12:30-1:45PM, GLC Multipurpose Room   
The Office for Diversity and Inclusion and the Provost’s Office co-sponsor this event with panelists including Virginia Senator John Edwards; Claire Guthrie Gastañaga, Former Chief Deputy Attorney General of Virginia and current General Counsel to Equality Virginia; and VT Professor Peter Wallenstein, Author of Tell the Court I Love My Wife: Race, Marriage, and Law-An American History.  Gerry Kearns, Virginia Tech Professor and Director of the School of Public and International Affairs, will moderate the panel and facilitate discussion. The university community is encouraged to attend; bring a brown-bag lunch. The LGBT Caucus will provide free pizza and other refreshments will be provided.

5. JEWISH AWARENESS MONTH LUNCH
Wednesday, Mar 31, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room F
Join the Graduate School’s Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives in the university-wide celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month.  Have lunch and meet and greet fellow Jewish graduate students and faculty as well as the Graduate School deans.  This is also an opportunity to share ideas and discuss issues related to the Jewish community at Virginia Tech.  Please register here.  Contact Jane Rorrer, 231-2494, with questions.

6. GA POSITION OPEN IN INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH & EFFECTIVENESS
VT’s IRE is looking for a Graduate Assistant for the 2010-11 academic year to assist with the conversion of some static web-site activity to dynamic, user-driven, SQL-Server apps. Required skills include SQL Server, with ideally at least an awareness of SQL Server Reporting Services. Additionally some experience with ASP.NET, using C or VB.NET would be great. Preferred skills include HTML, IIS, a fun personality, dependability, and good communication skills. Interested grad students can send their information to Dennis Catley by April 2, 2010. Summer 2011 hours may also be available.

7. GSA PROGRAM CHAIR POSITIONS – APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED
If you are looking to serve the graduate student community and gain valuable leadership experience, consider applying for a GSA Program Chair position! The GSA is currently accepting applications for the following positions: Website Director, Research Symposium Chair, Graduate and Professional School Day Chair, Graduate Research and Development Program Chair, Travel Fund Program Chair, GSA Events Chair, and GSA Historian.  Please view the GSA website at http://www.gsa.uusa.vt.edu for a full description of each position.  The deadline for application submission (letter of interest, resume/CV, and 2010-2011 goals) is Friday, Apr 2. Interviews will be conducted in early April.  Please direct any questions to Amanda Cronin Rumore.

8. GSA EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT 0.5 GA POSITION OPEN
Consider applying for a GSA Executive Assistant Position for the 2010-2011 academic year. The GSA Executive Assistant works with members of the executive board and program chairs to ensure the success of GSA programs and events.  The office assistant position is a 10-hour assistantship for the full academic year. The deadline for applications (resume and cover letter) is Monday, Mar 30. Please direct all questions and applications to Michelle McLeese.

9. RESEARCH SUBJECTS NEEDED FOR BIOMECHANICS STUDY – 1st posting
Research subjects are needed for a study to investigate various aspects of balance in the Kevin P. Granata Biomechanics Lab.  Subjects must be aged 18-28, and will be paid $10/hour for their participation. If you are interested, please email Sara Matrangola and include your name, age, gender, height, weight in the body of the email.

10. iPHONE STUDY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 2nd posting
Participants sought for a study on mobile information in everyday human activity to explore how iPhone users look up and capture information with their device in their everyday activities. The study consists of three parts, including a short questionnaire, a diary study, and a follow-up interview. Two $25 gift cards will be raffled off among active participants in the diary study, those who participate in the follow-up interview get a $10 gift card. Must be at least 18 years old, own and use an iPhone for at least 6 months, and have an unlimited data plan from your wireless provider. Please contact Ricardo for more details.

11. STUDY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT TO EVALUATE LEARNING ASSESSMENT TOOL – 2nd posting
Doctoral student in the VT School of Education is looking for graduate students to evaluate a learning assessment tool developed as part of a dissertation research. The evaluation is one-on-one, conducted in the Educational Technology Lab in 220 War Memorial Hall. The entire process can be completed in about 1.5 hours. If you are interested or have questions, please email to Jianhua Liu.

12. GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT FOR LEADERSHIP PROGRAM – 2nd posting
The Department of Student Activities is seeking graduate students to serve as small group facilitators for an undergraduate leadership development program, Leadership Tech. Facilitators will work in teams of two or three to guide a group of 10-15 junior and/or senior students organized around one of the following issues: Environmental Sustainability, Community Vitality, Social Justice, Global Issues, Multiculturalism, and Health and Wellness. Positions open until filled. Submit your resume to Allison Dunn, and complete the application. An interview will be scheduled for those who meet minimum qualifications.

13. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN HOKIE STONE EVENT – 2nd posting
April 16, 2010 will mark the first “Hokie Stone: An Event of Student-Shared Knowledge,” the beginning of a new university tradition to honor those lost three years ago.  This live event, held in Squires Colonial from 11:00am to 4:00pm, will also have streaming video to bring together Hokies from all around the world in our shared remembrance. Participants will be highlighting a core value that each individual held with utmost significance: the undeniable passion to learn and share knowledge to better the world. Your opportunity is now to show how you are committed to service and/ or learning at Virginia Tech. Organizers are now accepting proposals to find charismatic, dramatic and thought-provoking student presenters to give the talk of their lives. Submit a proposal or recommend a speaker by April 2, 2010.

14. HAITIAN AMBASSADOR’S ENGAGEMENT QUILT
Now until Mar 31, 2010
On Apr 15, the Haitian Ambassador, the Honorable Raymond Joseph, will be speaking at Virginia Tech. The Center for Student Engagement and Community Partnerships (CSECP) and Hokies United will present him with a gift, an engagement quilt. Students and student organizations are invited to help decorating the quilt squares. If you want to represent your organization by decorating a quilt square please email Carmen Byker.

15. GRADUATE STUDENT WAITLIST FOR 2010-11 HOUSING AVAILABLE NOW
Graduate students interested in living on-campus in either the Graduate Life Center or in Main Campbell Hall will need to sign up on the waitlist online in order to be considered for housing. Room and board rates for next year are not yet available, but they will be posted as soon as possible.  Offers to eligible students will be sent every 2-3 weeks via email until all of the beds are filled.

16. CALL FOR PROPOSALS
The VT Center for Peace Studies and Violence Prevention is accepting proposals for the first ACCIAC Student Research Symposium, Cultivating Peace: A Symposium for Violence Prevention, to take place on Nov 12–14, 2010, on campus in conjunction with VT’s International Summit on Transdisciplinary Approaches to Violence Prevention.  Proposals may include both individual and collaborative work from diverse fields and in a range of presentation formats, such as papers, oral or poster presentations, and multi-media projects.  Topics of particular interest include: campus violence prevention and university community partnerships, violence prevention in socioeconomic and cultural context, sustainable development and peace, social media and violence, and creatively fostering nonviolence: peace, the arts, and literature.  Individuals and teams should submit one-page proposals for review by April 30, 2010.  Please contact Dr. Marc Lucht with any questions.

17. UPCOMING EVENTS:

BIKE TO UGANDA ON APR 10 – FUNDRAISER
Saturday, Apr 10, 12:00-5:00pm, Weight Club in University Mall
A grad student-led organization, Poverty Awareness Coalition for Equality (PACE), and the Weight Club will host the second annual Bike to Uganda event for members of VT and the surrounding community to collectively bike the distance to Uganda, and for each mile raise money to build a school in Uganda. Sign up today for a vigorous spin class for a great cause (you do not need to be a weight club member to participate). Register here.  For registering and meeting your minimum fundraising goal ($25/ first hour, $10/each additional hour) you will get a free T-shirt, a raffle ticket for a chance to win great local prizes, and an after party with free food at the Weight Club. Prize for the top fund-raiser is a brand new Trek FX 7.3 bike from East Coasters!  Please email  for more information, or visit onepace.org for details about PACE and events.

BOB DUNCAN 5K RUN/WALK
Saturday, Apr 17, 11:00am, VT Cross Country Course
Registration: $20 before Apr 3. Join veterinary students and support the Vet School and the Diagnostic Pathology Scholarship.  Entry fee includes t-shirt, race support, finish-line food, music, and great door prizes.  Visit the website for more information or contact Ellen Binder with questions.

1. GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK: MARCH 19-26!

• Participate in events: visit the GEW website for full list and details
• Play the GEW Challenge
• Register for Grad Olympics
• Vote on the photo & art contest entries in the GLC (voting sheets at the Info Desk)

2. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC

• Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
• Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
• Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

3. TEACHING AND LEARNING WITH TECHNOLOGIES
Monday, Mar 22, 9:00-10:00am, Room B in the GLC
Test drive some state-of-the-art technology tools that can enhance both teaching and learning.

4. HOW TO GET THINGS DONE WITH TECHNOLOGY
Monday, Mar 22, 10:15-11:00am, Room B in the GLC
Learn a few simple methods to help manage information flow and boost your productivity.

5. SOCIAL NETWORKING
Monday, Mar 22, 5:30pm, Multipurpose Room in the GLC   
Through this interactive event learn why networking is important, how to do it the right way, and how to integrate social media in your networking. Brought to you by the GLC Resident Fellows.

6. ZUMBA
Tuesday, Mar 23, 12:00-1:00pm, Multipurpose Room in the GLC
Burn some calories and relax your mind with this combination of fast- and slow-rhythm fusion of Latin and international music and aerobic/fitness interval training.

7. LOUNGE AT THE LIBRARY
Tuesday, Mar 23, 1:00pm, Graduate Study Lounge, 416 Newman
Enjoy free refreshments and take in the view while chatting with fellow grads and subject expert librarians. Brought to you by University Libraries, proud co-sponsor of Graduate Education Week.

8. SHORT COURSES IN STATISTICS: INTRO TO STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
Tuesday, Mar 23, 5:00-7:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
During this session participants will: review how statistics can be used to solve research problems and answer scientific questions; learn key aspects of experimental design necessary to ensure that data can be statistically analyzed to answer research questions; learn about some common statistical techniques such as t-tests, ANOVA, regression; and plots to analyze and visualize data. LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research.  The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data.  Visit LISA’s website for instructions on how to REGISTER and to learn more.  Refreshments will be provided at the end of each short course! All courses are held in Fralin Auditorium from 5-7PM. Rest of Spring 2010 Schedule:

• March 29, Monday, Dr. Eric Smith – Regression
• April 6, Tuesday, Mark Seiss – General Linear Models
• April 12, Monday, Nels Johnson and Matt Williams – Multivariate Regression
• April 20, Tuesday, Dr. Eric Vance – Analyzing Real Data

9. AEL INDUCTION AND SPEAKER
Tuesday, Mar 23, 5:30pm, Room F in the GLC
Listen to Dr. Jim Dubinsky’s presentation on "A Leader’s Legacy," and cheer for the new inductees of Alpha Epsilon Lambda, graduate honor society.

10. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM AND EXPO
Wednesday, Mar 24, 9:00-5:00pm, All rooms in the GLC + GLC Plaza
Review the latest in graduate and advanced undergraduate research and academic pursuits.

11. GSA SYMPOSIUM KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Wednesday, Mar 24, 7:00-8:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Nobel Laureate Dr. Andrew Weaver, lead author in the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, will offer the keynote address.

12. REMOVING THE MYSTERY OF THE ETD REVIEW
Wednesday, Mar 24, 7:00-8:00pm, Room F in the GLC
Learn what happens to your ETD after you submit it to the Graduate School: timeline, corrections, and final approval.

13. GRAD MOVIE NIGHT AT THE LYRIC: Shutter Island
Thursday, Mar 25, 7:00 and 9:00pm, The Lyric
Enjoy a night at the movies, compliments of the Graduate School and The Lyric. Get your free ticket (while supplies last) at the GLC Information Desk or in Grad Student Services.

14. GRADUATE OLYMPICS 2010 – REGISTER NOW!
Friday, Mar 26, 3:00-4:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Put your wit, physical skills and team spirit to the test in a light-hearted competition among graduate student teams.  Up to ten teams of 4-6 members may compete for great prizes ($50+ gift certificates to local restaurants) on March 26 before the Big Cook Out. No prior experience necessary, but resourcefulness and knowledge of the GLC are a plus. All materials are provided. Teams will receive extra points for a creative team name, flag design and team cheer. All teams must pre-register. You will be notified when your registration is accepted. Registration:

15. BIG COOK OUT
Friday, Mar 26, 4:30-6:30pm, GLC and GLC Lawn
Enjoy free food, music, good company, a caricaturist, and indoor/outdoor games in this family-friendly closing event of Grad Ed Week. The theme is black and white!

16. CELEBRATE INDIAN SPRING FESTIVAL, HOLI
Friday, Mar 26, 6:30pm, Cranwell International Center
The Indian Student Association, a graduate student organization, invites you to a viewing of the mother-of-all Bollywood movies, Sholay. Released in 1975, this movie is the highest grossing film of all time in Indian cinema and ran for a record 286 weeks. The story of a small town terrorized by the baddest of all villains, Gabbar Singh, who meets his match in two criminals-turned-heroes, Jai and Veeru. Screened as a part of the celebrations for the festival of colors, Holi. Popcorn and drinks provided.

17. SPLASH SOME COLOR AT HOLI
Saturday, Mar 27, 11:00am, Amphitheater near Duckpond
The Indian Student Association (ISA) invites you to an outdoor party like no other: splash some red, green, blue and yellow while dancing to Indian grooves, and join ISA in celebrating Holi, the festival of colors! Event is free and open to all. Finger-licking snacks will be provided at nominal costs.

18. BECOME A FAN OF THE GRADUATE SCHOOL ON FACEBOOK
Our Facebook fan page is new, in honor of our tenth annual Graduate Education Week. Look for “Virginia Tech Graduate School.”

19. GA POSITION OPEN IN INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH & EFFECTIVENESS
VT’s IRE is looking for a Graduate Assistant for the 2010-11 academic year to assist with the conversion of some static web-site activity to dynamic, user-driven, SQL-Server apps. Required skills include SQL Server, with ideally at least an awareness of SQL Server Reporting Services. Additionally some experience with ASP.NET, using C or VB.NET would be great. Preferred skills include HTML, IIS, a fun personality, dependability, and good communication skills. Interested grad students can send their information to Dennis Catley, by April 2, 2010. Summer 2011 hours may also be available.

20. CALL FOR GSA PROGRAM CHAIR APPLICATIONS
Are you looking to serve the graduate student community and gain valuable leadership experience? If yes, then consider applying for a GSA Program Chair position! Applications are accepted for the following positions: Website Director, Research Symposium Chair, Graduate and Professional School Day Chair, Graduate Research and Development Program Chair, Travel Fund Program Chair, GSA Events Chair, and GSA Historian.  Please view the GSA website for a full description of each position.  The deadline for applications (letter of interest, resume/CV, and 2010-2011 goals) is Friday, Mar 26. Interviews will be conducted in early April.  Please direct any questions to Amanda Cronin Rumore.

21. GSA EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT 0.5 GA POSITION OPEN
Consider applying for a GSA Executive Assistant Position for the 2010-2011 academic year. The GSA Executive Assistant works with members of the executive board and program chairs to ensure the success of GSA programs and events.  The office assistant position is a 10-hour assistantship for the full academic year. The deadline for applications (resume and cover letter) is Monday, Mar 30. Please direct all questions and applications to Michelle McLeese.

22. iPHONE STUDY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 1st posting
Participants sought for a study on mobile information in everyday human activity to explore how iPhone users look up and capture information with their device in their everyday activities. The study consists of three parts, including a short questionnaire, a diary study, and a follow-up interview. Two $25 gift cards will be raffled off among active participants in the diary study, those who participate in the follow-up interview get a $10 gift card. Must be at least 18 years old, own and use an iPhone for at least 6 months, and have an unlimited data plan from your wireless provider. Please contact Ricardo for more details.

23. STUDY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT TO EVALUATE LEARNING ASSESSMENT TOOL – 1st posting
Doctoral student in the VT School of Education is looking for graduate students to evaluate a learning assessment tool developed as part of a dissertation research. The evaluation is one-on-one, conducted in the Educational Technology Lab in 220 War Memorial Hall. The entire process can be completed in about 1.5 hours. If you are interested or have questions, please email to Jianhua Liu.

24. GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT FOR LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
The Department of Student Activities is seeking graduate students to serve as small group facilitators for an undergraduate leadership development program, Leadership Tech. Facilitators will work in teams of two or three to guide a group of 10-15 junior and/or senior students organized around one of the following issues: Environmental Sustainability, Community Vitality, Social Justice, Global Issues, Multiculturalism, and Health and Wellness. Positions open until filled. Submit your resume to Allison Dunn, and complete the application. An interview will be scheduled for those who meet minimum qualifications. Questions: contact Allison Dunn.

25. PHI BETA DELTA ANNUAL ESSAY CONTEST
The Gamma Omega chapter of the Phi Beta Delta International Honor Society invites members of the Virginia Tech community to participate in our annual essay contest. All Virginia Tech faculty, staff, and student members are eligible to enter the contest based on the topic: ‘What does it mean to be a Global Hokie?’ $200, $100, $50 cash prizes will be awarded to winners first through third, respectively. 500 word limit. Please submit hardcopy to Betty Watts by 5:00pm Monday, March 29.

26. NUTRITION COUNSELING AVAILABLE NOW
Want to work on some nutrition and health goals this spring?  Senior nutrition students in the VT Department of Human Nutrition, Foods and Exercise are here to help.  Sign up for a one-on-one session to assess your current nutrition habits and help you set goals for improvement. All information will be kept confidential. This service is available both Spring and Fall (except during breaks) and is free.  For more information and to locate the online registration, visit HNFE and click on Nutrition Counseling.

27. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN HOKIE STONE EVENT
April 16, 2010 will mark the first “Hokie Stone: An Event of Student-Shared Knowledge,” the beginning of a new university tradition to honor those lost three years ago.  This live event, held in Squires Colonial from 11:00am to 4:00pm, will also have streaming video to bring together Hokies from all around the world in our shared remembrance. Participants will be highlighting a core value that each individual held with utmost significance: the undeniable passion to learn and share knowledge to better the world. Your opportunity is now to show how you are committed to service and/ or learning at Virginia Tech. Organizers are now accepting proposals to find charismatic, dramatic and thought-provoking student presenters to give the talk of their lives. Submit a proposal or recommend a speaker here. Proposal submissions are due by April 2, 2010.

28. UPCOMING EVENTS:

JEWISH AWARENESS MONTH LUNCH
Wednesday, Mar 31, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room F
Join the Graduate School’s Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives in the university-wide celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month.  Have lunch and meet and greet fellow Jewish graduate students and faculty as well as the Graduate School deans.  This is also an opportunity to share ideas and discuss issues related to the Jewish community at Virginia Tech.  Please register here. Questions?  Contact Jane Rorrer, Coordinator of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives, 231-2494.

CPR TRAINING
Friday, Apr 9, 1:00-5:00pm, GLC Room G
According to the American Heart Association, about 80% of cardiac arrests occur in private residential settings, so being trained to perform CPR can mean the difference between life and death for a loved one. Knowing CPR is an invaluable skill and the GLC Resident Fellows bring a CPR class to the GLC. Training is limited to the first ten registrants. To register for the CPR training, please complete this survey. If you have any questions, contact GLC Fellow Josey Chacko.

0. GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK COMING MARCH 19-26!
Review the week’s events on the official GEW 2010 website, win great prizes by participating in the GEW Challenge and the Grad Olympics, and receive a Grad Ed Week t-shirt by attending qualifying programs.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
– Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
– Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
– Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

2. FINANCIAL FORTITUDE
Monday, Mar 15, 6:30-8:00pm, GLC Room C
Meet with a Wachovia financial advisor and learn about making smart personal finance decisions. Brought to you by  the BAC of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. as part of Delta Week 2010.

3. STRESS MANAGEMENT COUNSELING GROUP
Tuesdays, Mar 16 through Apr 27, 5:00-6:30pm, GLC Room D
Stress management is a common problem for all college students, especially for graduate students. This small group will help you explore sources of personal stress and practice simple stress management techniques you can perform to prevent counter-productive stress. If you are interested in attending the stress management group or if you have any questions, please contact Jodie Kern-Bowen, 231-1719.

4. GROOVE TO BOLLYWOOD MOVES
Tuesday, Mar 16, 5:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
In the spirit of Women’s Month, the Dance Series will continue with Bollywood!  Burn a few calories in grace, style, and rhythm in this free dance session and spice up your personal dancing style by learning some classic Bollywood dance moves. Bring water and wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Add your personal twist: dance barefoot and/or style up by wearing flowing skirts!  Contact Ranjana Mehta with questions. 

5. TECHNO TIPS: USING ELECTRONIC TOOLS IN YOUR JOB SEARCH
Tuesday, Mar 16, 5:30pm in GLC Room F
Tap into the robust electronic job search resources to which Career Services purchases subscriptions.  Attend this session to learn what they are and how to effectively use these programs in your job search.

6. GET FIT FOR SPRING: GROUP FITNESS CLASS
Tuesday, Mar 16, 6:30-8:00pm in GLC Room F
Please bring water and a towel. *The Fitness Class will be from 7:00-8:00pm. Come between 6:30-7:00 PM to get your blood pressure checked. Brought to you by  the BAC of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. as part of Delta Week 2010.

7. 2010 CENSUS: BE COUNTED!
Wednesday, Mar 17, 10:00am-4:00pm, GLC Lobby
Come find out about the 10 easy questions that can make a huge difference in Blacksburg! Brought to you by  the BAC of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. as part of Delta Week 2010.

8. EVENING WITH THE INDUSTRIES
Wednesday, Mar 17, 6:30pm, Old Dominion Ballroom in Squires
Sponsored by the Society of Women Engineers, Evening with the Industries can help you meet potential employers from all backgrounds of engineering. This is a sit down dinner prior to CAMEO’s Careerfest in March. Cost: $10. Pre-registration and payment are required. Contact Coco McBride to register.

9. EVENING OF POETRY AND SPOKEN WORD
Thursday, Mar 18, time and location TBA
March 15-19 is Delta Week!  During this week the Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc will hold several events in the Blacksburg community, among them a special evening of poetry and spoken word on Thursday, Mar 18. If you are a graduate student or professional who would like to share some of your work with a crowd of your peers, please contact doctoral student Alicia Feagins.

10. FREE FUNDRAISER YOGA CLASSES
Thursdays, Mar 18, 25, 4:00pm, In Balance Yoga Studio, downtown Blacksburg Suggested donation $10/class (donations over $10 will be entered to win raffles!) Money raised will be donated to Bike the US for MS as they collect funds to donate to a Multiple Sclerosis Clinic in Charlottesville, VA. Bike the US for MS organizes yearly cross-country bike trips during the summer to fundraise and volunteer to raise awareness and money for Multiple Sclerosis clinics and research. To sign up for the yoga classes, please call or visit  In Balance Yoga Studio, 961-1030. This message is posted on behalf of vet med student Carmen Ledesma.

11. BALANCING MOTHERHOOD AND ACADEME
Friday, Mar 19, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room F
Are you considering a career in academe but aren’t sure how this might fit with plans to have children? Join us to learn more about how female graduate students and junior faculty at Virginia Tech are managing responsibilities at both work and home.  Lunch will be provided.  Register here.

12. INTERNATIONAL FOLK DANCE
Friday, Mar 19, 5:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Join your fellow classmates, staff, faculty and community members through traditional Romanian and Hungarian dances to celebrate Women’s Month. Joc De Leagane is a women’s dance that is hundreds of years old and Somogyi Karikazo is a group circle dance that begins with graceful movements and builds into a joyous celebration.  Neither dances are difficult to learn.  Questions: contact Ellen Pilonen.  

13. GSA WINE SOCIAL
Friday, Mar 19, 5:30pm, University Club
The Graduate Student Assembly is hosting a special 10th Annual Graduate Education Week “Black & White” themed Wine Social. Tickets are $10 for regular admission and can be purchased online, or paid at the door. GSA delegates and cabinet members can get in for just $5.00 at the door. If you would like to volunteer or have any questions, please contact Lindsay Moss, VP of Programs.
   
14. GRAD CONFERENCE & PUBLIC TALK ON CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER MAGGIE WALKER
Friday-Saturday, Mar 19-20, Skelton Center at The Inn at Virginia Tech
The History Graduate Student Association and the VT Department of History invite you to the 13th Annual Brian Bertoti Innovative Perspectives in History Graduate Conference. Events will include a keynote address by Dr. Heather Huyck of William & Mary in Alumni Assembly Hall on Friday, Mar 19 at 6:00pm on “Doing History in Public: Preserving Maggie Walker’s St. Luke’s Church." For more information, please visit  the conference website or contact Jillian Ketron.

15. GRADUATE OLYMPICS 2010 – REGISTER NOW!
Put your wit, physical skills and team spirit to the test in a light-hearted competition among graduate student teams.  Up to ten teams of 4-6 members may compete for great prizes ($50+ gift certificates to local restaurants) on March 26 before the Big Cook Out. No prior experience necessary, but resourcefulness and knowledge of the GLC are a plus. All materials are provided. Teams will receive extra points for a creative team name, flag design and team cheer. All teams must pre-register by filling out this survey. You will be notified if your registration is accepted.

16. LISA SHORT COURSES IN STATISTICS
LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research.  The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data.  See instructions on how to register and to learn more.  Refreshments will be provided at the end of each short course! All courses will be held in Fralin Auditorium from 5-7PM. Spring 2010 Schedule:
March 23, Tuesday, Dr. Eric Vance – An Introduction to Statistical Analysis
March 29, Monday, Dr. Eric Smith – Regression
April 6, Tuesday, Mark Seiss – General Linear Models
April 12, Monday, Nels Johnson and Matt Williams – Multivariate Regression
April 20, Tuesday, Dr. Eric Vance – Analyzing Real Data
LISA also provides free statistical collaboration and consulting by appointment and free daily walk-in Consulting Service from 12-2pm in 401 Hutcheson Hall. 

17. CALL FOR GSA PROGRAM CHAIR APPLICATIONS
Are you looking to serve the graduate student community and gain valuable leadership experience? If yes, then consider applying for a GSA Program Chair position! Applications are accepted for the following positions: Website Director, Research Symposium Chair, Graduate and Professional School Day Chair, Graduate Research and Development Program Chair, Travel Fund Program Chair, GSA Events Chair, and GSA Historian.  Please view the GSA website for a full description of each position.  The deadline for applications (letter of interest, resume/CV, and 2010-2011 goals) is Friday, March 26, 2010. Interviews will be conducted in early April.  Please direct any questions to Amanda Cronin Rumore.

18. GSA EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT 0.5 GA POSITION OPEN
Consider applying for a GSA Executive Assistant Position for the 2010-2011 academic year. The GSA Executive Assistant works with members of the executive board and program chairs to ensure the success of GSA programs and events.  The office assistant position is a 10-hour assistantship for the full academic year. The deadline for applications (resume and cover letter) is Monday, March 30, 2010. Please direct all questions and applications to Michelle McLeese.

19. NEED INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR HONORS/AWARDS/SCHOLARSHIPS for 2009-10
Every year the Graduate School publishes Graduate Students of Distinction, an online document listing awards, honors, fellowships and scholarships received by graduate students. Please let us know of any honors, awards, etc. that you have received since April 2009 by completing a quick, simple survey  by April 15.

20. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN ArtsFusion 2010
VT’s School of Performing Arts and Cinema is facilitating ArtsFusion 2010, April 17-25, and they would love to have graduate students be part of it. Dor Cosby Atkinson, graduate student in Theatre Arts, invites you to join if you’ve planned or will plan an arts event (including music, dance, visual arts, theater arts, film and much more) for that week. By partnering with ArtsFusion, your organization will be paired with an established event. Your event would be included in the ArtsFusion marketing campaign at no cost to you. Contact them as soon as possible if you are interested. Contact 231-5200 or e-mail susansanders@vt.edu if you are interested in participating.

21. GRAD RESEARCH ASST POSITION IN OIRED FOR 2010-11
The Office of Int’l Research, Education and Development is seeking a 12-m GRA to conduct research on gendered knowledge, beliefs and perceptions supporting conservation agriculture production systems (CAPS). Strong writing and analytic skills and experience in database management and/or statistical analysis, report and journal article development, and searching library databases required. Cross-disciplinary experience in agricultural technology studies, human geography, sociology (or related discipline), and outreach and communication with a special interest in international development issues expected. Demonstrated interest in gender studies. French, Spanish (or other) language capability desired. Experience with Scholar and teaching a plus. Send cover letter describing your interests and experience, resume, two examples of your disciplinary writing, and a copy of academic transcript (photocopy/ PDF is OK) to Betty Watts; use “SANREM Gender GRA” in the subject heading of your email. SANREM CRSP

22. GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT FOR LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
The Department of Student Activities is seeking graduate students to serve as small group facilitators for an undergraduate leadership development program, Leadership Tech. Facilitators will work in teams of two or three to guide a group of 10-15 junior and/or senior students organized around one of the following issues: Environmental Sustainability, Community Vitality, Social Justice, Global Issues, Multiculturalism, and Health and Wellness. Positions open until filled. Submit your resume to Allison Dunn and complete the application. An interview will be scheduled for those who meet minimum qualifications. Questions: contact Allison Dunn.

23. UPCOMING EVENTS:

10TH ANNUAL GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK: Mar 19-26
This week-long celebration offers opportunities to all members of the university community to be involved with graduate education:  dance zumba, play with state-of-the-art technology tools, learn about leadership, visit the GSA’s research showcase, go to The Lyric, compete in teams in Grad Olympics, eat at the Big Cook Out and more! See the GEW 2010 website for details.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
Please note that there will not be career services walk-in advising, and writing support in the GLC during spring break. All weekly services will resume next week.

2. GRADUATE STUDENT PHOTO & ART CONTEST 2010 – enter by March 10
The Graduate School seeks submissions of photographs and artwork by graduate students for display in the Graduate Life Center. All selected entries will be displayed in the GLC on a temporary, rotating basis. Enter by March 10. This year’s theme: The NRV through Graduate Students’ Eyes. The new set of photos and artwork will be unveiled during Graduate Education Week, March 22-26; winners will receive a prize! More information.

3. SPRING AFTERNOON BREAK
Wednesday, Mar 10, 2:00-3:00pm, GLC Lobby
If you can’t take spring break, take an afternoon break! Instead of feeling sorry for yourself in your lab, office or at home, commiserate with fellow graduate students over some home-made baked goods, coffee and other refreshments.  Please help us estimate the amount of food needed by letting us know if you are planning to come. Remember that you can enter the GLC with your valid Hokie Passport any time.

4. JOIN OUR ETHICAL PURSUITS IN ACADEME FAN PAGE
Join the Graduate School’s Facebook fan page for ethics, where we post articles, stories, and media on ethics in scholarship, teaching, service, and life. oin, you do have to get back to work.

5. NEED INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR HONORS/AWARDS/SCHOLARSHIPS for 2009-10
Every year the Graduate School publishes Graduate Students of Distinction, an online document listing awards, honors, fellowships and scholarships received by graduate students. Please let us know of any honors, awards, etc. that you have received since April 2009 by completing a quick, simple survey by April 15.

6. GLOBAL HOKIE ESSAY CONTEST
The Gamma Omega chapter of the PBD International Honor Society invites you to participate in their annual essay contest: submit your essay by Monday, Mar 22, 5:00pm. All VT faculty, staff, and students are eligible to enter. Topic: ‘What does it mean to be a Global Hokie?’ Word limit: 500. Cash prizes of $200, $100, $50 will be awarded. Winners will be announced at Phi Beta Delta’s Spring Induction Ceremony on Tuesday, Apr 13. For more information contact Betty Watts, 1-6452. Please submit hardcopy to: Betty Watts, International Affairs Office, 526 Prices Fork Road (MRC 0378), Blacksburg, VA 24060.

7. MOVIE MANIA – SURVEY OF INTEREST – 2nd posting
The GLC Fellows are working on bringing a series of movies to the GLC that would interest graduate students. The Fellows would appreciate your assistance in selecting the kind of movies you would like to see. Please complete this survey. If you have any questions, contact Josey Chacko.

8. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN ArtsFusion 2010
VT’s School of Performing Arts and Cinema is facilitating ArtsFusion 2010, April 17-25, and they would love to have graduate students be part of it. Dor Cosby Atkinson, graduate student in Theatre Arts, invites you to join if you’ve planned or will plan an arts event (including music, dance, visual arts, theater arts, film and much more) for that week. By partnering with ArtsFusion, your organization will be paired with an established event. Your event would be included in the ArtsFusion marketing campaign at no cost to you. Contact them as soon as possible if you are interested. Contact 231-5200 or e-mail  if you are interested in participating.

9. GRAD RESEARCH ASST POSITION IN OIRED FOR 2010-11
The Office of Int’l Research, Education and Development is seeking a 12-m GRA to conduct research on gendered knowledge, beliefs and perceptions supporting conservation agriculture production systems (CAPS). Strong writing and analytic skills and experience in database management and/or statistical analysis, report and journal article development, and searching library databases required. Cross-disciplinary experience in agricultural technology studies, human geography, sociology (or related discipline), and outreach and communication with a special interest in international development issues expected. Demonstrated interest in gender studies. French, Spanish (or other) language capability desired. Experience with Scholar and teaching a plus. Send cover letter describing your interests and experience, resume, two examples of your disciplinary writing, and a copy of academic transcript (photocopy/ PDF is OK) to Betty Watts, bettyw@vt.edu; use “SANREM Gender GRA” in the subject heading of your email. SANREM CRSP.

10. HELP BRING GOOGLE FTTH PROJECT TO BLACKSBURG
Blacksburg and Virginia Tech have teamed up to submit a joint application for Google’s project to build ultra-high speed fiber networks in a number of locations across the country. If selected, Blacksburg would be the recipient of Internet speeds 100 times faster than what most Americans have access to today. The local project team is calling on the community for their help. There are two steps to completing the Google Request for Information (RFI): (1) the government response, and (2) the community response, due by Mar 26, 2010. Residents are asked to fill out a short online form and clicking on “Nominate Your Community.” The form requires a name, city and state, and a paragraph or more explaining why you would like to have Google locate in Blacksburg. Reasons could include the need for increased broadband access for business, education, arts, entertainment, etc. Google is particularly interested in creative thinking and next generation ideas. See a sample template response. For additional information please contact Brenda van Gelder.

11. UPCOMING EVENTS:

EVENING WITH THE INDUSTRIES
Wednesday, Mar 17, 6:30pm, Old Dominion Ballroom in Squires
Sponsored by the Society of Women Engineers, Evening with the Industries can help you meet potential employers from all backgrounds of engineering. This is a sit down dinner prior to CAMEO’s Careerfest in March. Cost: $10. Pre-registration and payment are required. Contact Coco McBride to register.

EVENING OF POETRY AND SPOKEN WORD
Thursday, Mar 18, time and location TBA
March 15-19 is Delta Week!  During this week the Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc will hold several events in the Blacksburg community, among them a special evening of poetry and spoken word on Thursday, Mar 18. If you are a graduate student or professional who would like to share some of your work with a crowd of your peers, please contact doctoral student Alicia Feagins.

FREE FUNDRAISER YOGA CLASSES AT IN BALANCE YOGA STUDIO
Thursdays, Mar 18, 25, 4:00pm, In Balance Yoga Studio, downtown Blacksburg Suggested donation $10/class (donations over $10 will be entered to win raffles!) Money raised will be donated to Bike the US for MS as they collect funds to donate to a Multiple Sclerosis Clinic in Charlottesville, VA. Bike the US for MS organizes yearly cross-country bike trips during the summer to fundraise and volunteer to raise awareness and money for Multiple Sclerosis clinics and research. To sign up for the yoga classes, please call In Balance Yoga Studio, 961-1030. Find out more about Bike the US for MS. This message is posted on behalf of vet med student Carmen Ledesma.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC

• Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
• Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
• Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

2. GRADUATE STUDENT PHOTO & ART CONTEST 2010 – enter by March 10
Help us decorate the GLC and win an award during Grad Ed Week! The Graduate School seeks submissions of photographs and artwork by graduate students for display in the Graduate Life Center. All selected entries will be displayed in the GLC on a temporary, rotating basis. Enter by March 10. This year’s theme: The NRV through Graduate Students’ Eyes. The new set of photos and artwork will be unveiled during Graduate Education Week, March 22-26. More information.

3. ETHICS BOWL 2010
Tuesday, Mar 2, 3:00-4:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
It’s still not too late to register for the Ethics Bowl to test your sense of ethics, communication and critical thinking skills. Consider, discuss and resolve case-study based ethical dilemmas with fellow students and faculty. You may sign up as a team of 3-4, or as an individual and be assigned to a team by the organizers. Teams may include current VT students, faculty or staff, but team leaders must be graduate students. Register here.

4. CLOGGING – WOMEN’S MONTH DANCE SERIES
Tuesday, Mar 2, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Join a few Hoorah Cloggers in an easy clogging lesson and learn to do a few traditional clogging steps yourself.  Learn a bit about local Appalachian history, music and dance and impress all your friends next time you go dancing!  Please wear shoes that have slippery soles (leather, hard plastic, etc. (Tennis shoes are hard to dance in). Questions?  Contact Lindsay Moss.

5. STRESS MANAGEMENT COUNSELING GROUP
Tuesdays, Mar 16 through Apr 27, 5:00-6:30pm, GLC Room D
Stress management is a common problem for all college students, especially graduate students. This small group will help you explore sources of personal stress and practice simple stress management techniques you can perform to prevent counter-productive stress. If you are interested in attending the stress management group or if you have any questions, please contact Jodie Kern-Bowen,  540-231-1719.

6. NETWORKING: THE BACKBONE OF YOUR JOB SEARCH
Tuesday, Mar 2, 5:30pm, GLC Room F
Networking: You’ve heard the word and possibly even know what it means – but are you using this essential job search skill appropriately–or at all?  Too many job searches shy away from networking because they say they don’t know anyone or feel like they’re using people-or any number of other excuses.  Attend this session to demystify networking and learn the basics of how to get started.

7. HOOP DANCE – WOMEN’S MONTH DANCE SERIES
Tuesday, Mar 2, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
In this one-hour workshop, Becca of Wild Earth Hoops will instruct participants on the basics of hoop dance including hooping on the waist, hips and hands. More advanced instruction will be available at the end of the workshop for those familiar with hoop dance.  Grab your favorite Sister Friend and come see what the hoopla is all about!  Hoops will be available for the duration of the workshop. Questions?  Contact Lindsay Moss.

8. SPEAKERS ON LEADERSHIP & SKILLS IN AN HOUR (SPLASH): GENDER & LEADERSHIP
Tuesday, Mar 2, 5:30pm, Brush Mountain A
This event is part of Women’s Month 2010: How does society look at the relationship between gender and leadership? Do we have different expectations for male vs. female leaders? If so why? What biases do we have regarding gender and leadership? Join Ana LoMascolo and Kathy Lokale from the Women’s Center to discuss more about gender differences and leadership. For further information contact Ana Barrenechea.

9. TEACHER RESPONSES TO EXPRESSIONS OF VIOLENCE
Tuesday, Mar 2, 7:00-8:30pm, Torgersen Museum Room (1100)
The Women’s and Gender Studies (WGS) program sponsors this forum that consists of a panel, followed by general discussion, to explore ways to limit and respond to threats and expressions of violence in the classroom. Panelists include Ann Kilkelly (Theater Arts and WGS), Neal King (WGS and Sociology), Bob Leonard (Theater Arts), Lucinda Roy (English) and Barbara Ellen Smith (WGS and Sociology). The forum is open to all, but is designed particularly for instructors of any rank (including GTAs) or department who wish to discuss these issues. Contact: Barbara Ellen Smith or Neal King.

10. AMATEUR READIO TEST SESSION
Tuesday, Mar 2, 8:15pm in Dogwood Room in Squires
The VT Amateur Radio Association will hold an amateur radio test session. The test fee is $14, payable by cash (preferably) or check (made out to VT Amateur Radio Association). Photo ID required (Hokie Passport or a driver’s license is sufficient). Please plan on arriving five to ten minutes early. All three license classes will be offered (Technician, General, and Extra).  If you pass the first test, you may take the next test (all the way up to Extra).  You may bring a calculator, but you may not store any data in it that was not programmed at the factory. Contact ECE grad student Mike Benonis mjb8h@vt.edu for more information, or visit  VTARA Website.

11. CLIMATE CHANGE DOCUMENTARY
Wednesday, Mar 3; 7:00pm, GLC Student TV Lounge
Come out and hear from a fellow graduate student who attended COP15 to watch the documentary “Home” about mother earth and our life.  Scientists tell us that we have 10 years to change the way we live, avert the depletion of natural resources and the catastrophic evolution of the Earth’s climate.  Participate in a lively discussion before and after the film.  Questions? Contact Xiaochen Zhang.

12. MONTHLY BOOK CLUB
Thursday Mar 4, 6:00-8:00pm, Easy Chair Coffee Shop
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc will hold its monthly Book Club with special guest discussion leader Dr. Gena Chandler, asst professor of English. Each month the club reads a different book and then meets to discuss it.  The book for March is Victoire: My Mother’s Mother by Maryse Conde (participants secure their own copies). If you are a graduate student who enjoys extra-curricular reading and lively discussion, please join. All are welcome.  For more information please contact Alicia Feagins:  afeagins@vt.edu

13. WOMEN’S MONTH CELEBRATION
Thursday, Mar 4, 6:00-9:00pm, University Club
Co-sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly and the Iranian Society at Virginia Tech, this event promises to offer a joyful night of music, wine, art and dance. Purchase ticket at the door. If you have any questions please contact Mana.

14. WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH 2010 LUNCHEON
Friday, Mar 5, 12:00-1:30pm, Torgersen Museum
Celebrate Women’s Month 2010 with the Graduate School’s office of recruitment and diversity initiatives during a lunch and an informal discussion with women in graduate studies, faculty, and the Graduate School deans. Women’s Month recognizes, affirms, and showcases the achievements, concerns, and diversity of women. Please RSVP by March 3. For further information contact Jane Rorrer, jrorrer@vt.edu. 

15. NEED INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR HONORS/AWARDS/SCHOLARSHIPS for 2009-10
Every year the Graduate School publishes Graduate Students of Distinction,  an online document listing awards, honors, fellowships and scholarships received by graduate students. Please let us know of any honors, awards, etc. that you have received since April 2009 by completing a quick, simple survey by April 15.

16. GLOBAL HOKIE ESSAY CONTEST
The Gamma Omega chapter of the PBD International Honor Society invites you to participate in their annual essay contest: submit your essay by Monday, Mar 22,  5:00pm. All VT faculty, staff, and students are eligible to enter. Topic: ‘What does it mean to be a Global Hokie?’ Word limit: 500. Cash prizes of $200, $100, $50 will be awarded. Winners will be announced at Phi Beta Delta’s Spring Induction Ceremony on Tuesday, Apr 13. For more information contact Betty Watts, 1-6452. Please submit hardcopy to: Betty Watts, International Affairs Office, 526 Prices Fork Road (MRC 0378), Blacksburg, VA 24060.

17. WALK-IN STATISTICAL CONSULTING
A statistical consultant is available Mon-Fri 12:00-2:00pm through May 6 to answer your quick questions or to help with research projects requiring less than 30 minutes of assistance. The LISA Walk-in Consulting Service is located in 401 Hutcheson Hall near the elevator by the east side stairwell. Knock loudly. For more in-depth questions or longer projects, complete the LISA Request Form and a team of statistical collaborators will be assigned to work with you. Note: LISA does not assist with class projects or homework. Closed: Spring Break (March 6-14) and on the Day of Remembrance (April 16).  To learn more about the Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA), visit www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/.

18. MOVIE MANIA – SURVEY OF INTEREST
The GLC Fellows are working on bringing a series of movies to the GLC that would interest graduate students. The Fellows would appreciate your assistance in selecting the kind of movies you would like to see. Please complete the survey at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1265248650396. If you have any questions, contact Josey Chacko.

19. JOB FAIR IN NORTHERN VA GRAD CENTER (FALLS CHURCH, VA)
Attend the 19th Annual National Capital Region Job Fair sponsored by the Virginia Tech Alumni Association. More than 65+ professional and high tech companies from Virginia, Maryland, and DC will be recruiting for all levels and disciplines. No cost to attend and all job seekers are welcome. Parking is limited, so please take the Orange Line Metro to the West Falls Church – VT/UVA Metro Station. Register online and submit your resume by March 5. Even if you can’t attend, you may submit your resume for inclusion in the resume book provided to all recruiters. More information and a complete list of participating companies.

20. GSA TRAVEL FUND APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED NOW
The GSA Travel Fund Program (TFP) offers awards to support the cost of presenting at a conference.  Master’s students may receive up to $350 and doctoral students up to $500.  The application period for travel between January 1 and June 30 will be open from February 1 to March 5.  Visit http://www.gsa.uusa.vt.edu/programs/travel_fund for instructions on how to apply.  Please contact Lora Cavuoto with any questions.

21. UPCOMING EVENTS:

EVENING WITH THE INDUSTRIES
Wednesday, Mar 17, 6:30pm, Old Dominion Ballroom in Squires
Sponsored by the Society of Women Engineers, Evening with the Industries can help you meet potential employers from all backgrounds of engineering. This is a sit down dinner prior to CAMEO’s Careerfest in March. Cost: $10. Pre-registration and payment are required. Contact Coco McBride to register.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC

• Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
• Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
• Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

2. ETHICS BOWL 2010-sign up now
Register by Friday, Feb 26, to test your sense of ethics and communication and critical thinking skills during the 3rd annual Ethics Bowl organized by the Graduate School. Consider, discuss and resolve case-study based ethical dilemmas with fellow students and faculty on Tuesday, March 2, 3:00-4:30pm in the GLC Multipurpose Room. You may sign up as a team of 3-4, or as an individual and be assigned to a team by the organizers. Teams may include current VT students, faculty or staff, but team leaders must be graduate students. Judges include VT faculty and a guest from Lockheed Martin.

3. EATING ISSUES AND BODY IMAGE AWARENESS WEEK
A series of activities and events will mark the eating issues and awareness week of Feb 22-26. The keynote address will be on Tuesday, Feb 23, 7:00pm in the GLC Auditorium.

4. LaTeX WORKSHOP II
Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb 23 and 24, 5:30-7:30pm, GLC Room F (same presentation both nights)
This workshop is designed to address intermediate level concerns of LaTeX users. It will cover more extensive preamble options (e.g. creating and renewing commands, page layout, title/author information, internal/external referencing), environments (e.g. equations, tables, figures and floats in general), creating a final LaTeX file from multiple LaTeX files, and a brief introduction to citation management (BibTeX) and presentations (via the beamer package). The presentation will leave some time for a Q&A session. Questions: Contact  Jonathan Duggins.

5. BLACK HISTORY MONTH LUNCH
Wednesday, February 24th, 11:30-1:30, GLC Room F
Join the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives for lunch on Wednesday, February 24, 2010, in celebration of Black History Month.  Meet and greet fellow African American graduate students and faculty as well as the Graduate School deans.  This is also an opportunity to share ideas and discuss issues related to the African American community at Virginia Tech.  If you are interested in attending, please sign up for the lunch.  For more information, please contact Jane Rorrer by e-mail or by phone (540) 231-2494.

6. SPEAKERS ON LEADERSHIP & SKILLS IN AN HOUR (SPLASH): FINANCIAL HEALTH
Wednesday, Feb 24, 1:30pm, Brush Mountain A
Financial consciousness is a leadership attribute; train yourself for financial independence and understanding through exercises designed to get participants thinking. This is a two part series: Part 1 on Monday at 5:30pm, Part 2 on Wednesday at 1:30pm. For further information contact Marcela Uribe, doctoral student in education, at .

7. BONE-MARROW REGISTRY DRIVE TO HELP RECENT GRAD
Thursday, Feb 25, 7:30am-5:30pm in 219 Squires
The Biology Graduate Student Association is sponsoring a Bone-Marrow Registry Drive: the process involves filling out some health history forms and a simple cheek swab to determine your genetic information.  A recent graduate was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma recently and he’s in need of a bone marrow donor.  In addition to the cheek swabs to join the registry, the group is helping raise funds for "Be the Match," the bone marrow registry, by hosting a bake sale outside Squires 219.

8. CINEMATECH SCREENING SERIES
Thursday, Feb 25, 7:00pm in 1045 Pamplin
This month, the CinemaTech screening series presents Akira Kurosawa’s "Throne of Blood" with an introduction by Kurosawa specialist Dr. Stephen Prince of the School of Performing Arts & Cinema at Virginia Tech. Please contact doctoral student Anja Haelg Bieri for more information about this series.
Last Thursdays every month:
Mar 25: Karl Precoda presents " Hell’s Hinges"
Apr 29: Ashley Maynor presents "Playtime".

9. GRADUATE NETWORK FOR COMMUNITY-ENGAGED SCHOLARSHIP
Friday, Feb 26, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room G
All graduate students interested in becoming involved with graduate student engagement in service and community are invited to attend. Have a slice of pizza, learn about opportunities for community service or support for community-engaged scholarship in your research, and network with other graduate students and groups. Keynote Speaker: Andy Morikawa, Executive Director of the Community Foundation of the NRV. Spring semester meetings will be held on the last Friday in February and March, culminating with a poster session highlighting graduate student community-engaged scholarship in April. Sponsored by:  CSECP- Center for Student Engagement & Community Partnerships. To learn more, check out the website.

10. FROM VINTAGE TO VELOUR: PARTYING THROUGH THE DECADES – NEW DATE!!!
Friday, Feb 26, 7-9pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The party is back on! Break out your poodle skirts, go-go boots, leg warmers, and skinny jeans for this welcome back party sponsored by the GLC Fellows. Dress up in fashion from your favorite decade, listen to a variety of music from old-school until now, and enjoy snacks and refreshments. Bring a picture of yourself from the past to share! It will be a totally cool and rad event. Be there or be square!

11. LET’S TALK ABOUT TEXT CONFERENCE //POLY-PERFORMANCE READING EVENT
Saturday, Feb 27, 9:00am-4:30pm//8:00-10:00pm Shanks Hall//Gillie’s
The VT English Graduate Student Organization invites you to its annual conference. Graduate students from VT and elsewhere will present papers; Keynote by Geoffrey Sirc, Professor at the U of Minnesota on "Mixtape as Composition." Pre-registration is available. EGSO also invites you to the conference-affiliated PolyPerformance event at Gillie’s that evening from 8:00-10:00 (no registration necessary, admission free); creative writers and performers may present material that evening. More information: visit the event site or contact conference co-chairs Melissa Smith or Katherine Sullivan.

12. LUNCH WITH THE PRESIDENT
Monday, Mar 1, 12:00-1:30pm, The Inn at Virginia Tech
Chat with President Steger, Provost McNamee, and Dean DePauw! Lunch will be provided. All graduate students are invited to attend. Sign up by Feb 22: Questions? Contact Rebecca French, Grad Rep to VT BOV.

13. GRADUATE STUDENT PHOTO & ART CONTEST 2010 – enter by March 10
Help us decorate the GLC and win an award during Grad Ed Week! The Graduate School seeks submissions of photographs and artwork by graduate students for display in the Graduate Life Center. All selected entries will be displayed in the GLC on a temporary, rotating basis. Enter by March 10. This year’s theme: The NRV through Graduate Students’ Eyes. The new set of photos and artwork will be unveiled during Graduate Education Week, March 22-26. Download the submission form or read more about the contest on our website.

14. WALK-IN STATISTICAL CONSULTING
A statistical consultant is available Mon-Fri 12:00-2:00pm through May 6 to answer your quick questions or to help with research projects requiring less than 30 minutes of assistance. The LISA Walk-in Consulting Service is located in 401 Hutcheson Hall near the elevator by the east side stairwell. Knock loudly. For more in-depth questions or longer projects, complete the LISA Request Form and a team of statistical collaborators will be assigned to work with you. Note: LISA does not assist with class projects or homework. Closed: Spring Break (March 6-14) and on the Day of Remembrance (April 16).  To learn more, visit the Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA).

15. MOVIE MANIA – SURVEY OF INTEREST
The GLC Fellows are working on bringing a series of movies to the GLC that would interest graduate students. The Fellows would appreciate your assistance in selecting the kind of movies you would like to see. Please complete the survey. If you have any questions, contact Josey Chacko.

16. GLC RESIDENT FELLOW POSITIONS OPEN FOR 2010-2011
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students to live in the GLC and take on Residence Life and programming duties. An ideal candidate would have previous Residence Life experience. Compensation includes a free room in the GLC, a monthly stipend and a partial tuition waiver. Application materials must be turned in to the Graduate Student Services office (110 GLC – Lauren Keister) by noon on Friday, Feb 26. For more information contact Katie Greenleaf, 231-5691 or Lauren Keister, 231-9561.  Download applications.

17. GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP POSITION AVAILABLE 2010-11
Assessment coordinator graduate assistantship position available for the next academic year in the Division of Student Affairs’ Communications & Marketing Department in New Hall West. The position reports to the Associate Director of Administration for Communications and to the Chief of Staff. Duties include developing and implementing assessment strategies that lead to continuous improvement of programs and services that support the division’s mission.  Must have master’s degree; experience working with assessment of student affairs programs; understanding of accreditation criteria and standards; collaborative attitude; data collection, management and analysis skills; ability to write and present clear and concise reports.  The position would likely pay at step 13. Contact Kimberle Badinelli, 1-5258 to apply or for further information.  Apply by March 1.

18. JOB FAIR IN NORTHERN VA GRAD CENTER (FALLS CHURCH, VA)
Attend the 19th Annual National Capital Region Job Fair sponsored by the Virginia Tech Alumni Association. More than 65+ professional and high tech companies from Virginia, Maryland, and DC will be recruiting for all levels and disciplines. No cost to attend and all job seekers are welcome. Parking is limited, so please take the Orange Line Metro to the West Falls Church – VT/UVA Metro Station. Register online and submit your resume by March 5. Even if you can’t attend, you may submit your resume for inclusion in the resume book provided to all recruiters.

19. EVENING WITH THE INDUSTRIES
Wednesday, Mar 17, 6:30pm, Old Dominion Ballroom in Squires
Sponsored by the Society of Women Engineers, Evening with the Industries can help you meet potential employers from all backgrounds of engineering. This is a sit down dinner prior to CAMEO’s Careerfest in March. Cost: $10. Pre-registration and payment are required. Contact Coco McBride  to register.

20. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – final posting
Abstract submission deadline Feb 26. The 26th Annual GSA Research Symposium will be held on Mar 24 in the Graduate Life Center, and the GLC Plaza. The symposium includes poster and oral presentations and video and performance categories. Students from the National Capital Region will participate through video-Conferencing. $9500 in prizes will be awarded! The keynote speaker is 2007 Nobel Laureate Dr. Andrew Weaver, a lead author of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. If you have questions, please contact the GSA Research Symposium Chair, Ganesh Balasubramanian.

21. SUSTAINABILITY SPEAKER SERIES – 2nd posting
The GLC Speaker Series is looking for volunteers wishing to present their work in an inter-disciplinary environment pertaining to sustainability. Sustainability, in this context, is broadly defined and submissions are welcome from all disciplines. If you wish to relate issues of sustainability to the earthquake in Haiti, this is a welcoming forum to do so. If interested, please submit a brief statement of your research/talk to Meredith Katz. Speaker series will run throughout the Spring 2010 semester.

22. GSA TRAVEL FUND APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED NOW
The GSA Travel Fund Program (TFP) offers awards to support the cost of presenting at a conference.  Master’s students may receive up to $350 and doctoral students up to $500.  The application period for travel between January 1 and June 30 will be open from February 1 to March 5.  Visit http://www.gsa.uusa.vt.edu/programs/travel_fund for instructions on how to apply.  Please contact Lora Cavuoto at lcavuoto@vt.edu with any questions.

23. GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FUNDS AVAILABLE
Cycle II of the Gradate Research Development Program (GRDP) is now open through Feb 26, 2010. GRDP is a competitive research funding program administered by the GSA to support qualified research and innovative ideas proposed by VT graduate students. Applications go through a rigorous review process by a panel of graduate students and faculty. Visit http://www.gsa.uusa.vt.edu/programs/research_program to learn more about this opportunity. All questions should be directed to the program chair, Mr. Amine Chigani, achigani@vt.edu.

24. AEL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY SEEKING NEW MEMBERS – 3rd posting
Application are accepted for the AEL Grad Honor Society: Alpha Epsilon Lambda (AEL) is the academic excellence and leadership honor society of graduate and professional school students. Graduate students may become members based on their academic achievements and leadership experiences. Apply by Feb 26 at http://www.graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/honors_awards/ael/application.html. The induction ceremony for new members will take place during Graduate Education Week, Mar 22-26.

25. GSA STUDENT FEES COMMITTEE NEEDS YOUR FEEDBACK
The GSA Student Fees Committee was established a couple of years ago to address the issues and concerns regarding graduate student fees at VT. The comprehensive fees have increased in recent years while assistantship stipends have not. This committee is committed to helping explore possible solutions to this growing problem but they need your help. Please fill out a brief survey to give feedback about your concerns and needs on this topic. If you have any questions please contact the GSA Fees Committee Chair, Sonal Mazumder.

26. GET INVOLVED WITH CITIZEN SCHOLARS
Does your research benefit the local or global community?  Would you like to
help out Haiti but aren’t sure how? Learn more about how to get involved with the Citizen Scholar Experience project. Email Eric Hodges at hodgeseb@vt.edu any questions or concerns.

27. HOKIES HELPING HAITI & PARTNERS IN HEALTH
The graduate student community raised $1000 in the collection jars in the GLC. You contributed $500 and the deans matched it! Special thanks to all of you who have contributed, and to the students in Computer Science and Drs. DePauw, Rankin, Blieszner and Pérez-Quiñones.

28. UPCOMING EVENTS:

CLOGGING – WOMEN’S MONTH DANCE SERIES
Tuesday, Mar 2, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Join a few Hoorah Cloggers in an easy clogging lesson and learn to do a few traditional clogging steps yourself.  Learn a bit about local Appalachian history, music and dance and impress all your friends next time you go dancing!  Please wear shoes that have slippery soles (leather, hard plastic, etc. (Tennis shoes are hard to dance in). Questions?  Lindsay Moss at lcmoss@vt.edu

HOOP DANCE – WOMEN’S MONTH DANCE SERIES
Tuesday, Mar 2, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
In this one-hour workshop, Becca of Wild Earth Hoops will instruct participants on the basics of hoop dance including hooping on the waist, hips and hands. More advanced instruction will be available at the end of the workshop for those familiar with hoop dance.  Grab your favorite Sister Friend and come see what the hoopla is all about!  Hoops will be available for the duration of the workshop. Questions?  Lindsay Moss at lcmoss@vt.edu

AMATEUR READIO TEST SESSION
Tuesday, Mar 2, 8:15pm in Dogwood Room in Squires
The VT Amateur Radio Association will hold an amateur radio test session. The test fee is $14, payable by cash (preferably) or check (made out to VT Amateur Radio Association). Photo ID required (Hokie Passport or a driver’s license is sufficient). Please plan on arriving five to ten minutes early. All three license classes will be offered (Technician, General, and Extra).  If you pass the first test, you may take the next test (all the way up to Extra).  You may bring a calculator, but you may not store any data in it that was not programmed at the factory. Contact ECE grad student Mike Benonis mjb8h@vt.edu for more information. VTARA Website: <http://www.vtara.org.vt.edu>

CLIMATE CHANGE DOCUMENTARY
Wed. March 3; 7:00pm, GLC Student TV Lounge
Come out and hear from a fellow graduate student who attended COP15 to watch the documentary “Home” about mother earth and our life.  Scientists tell us that we have 10 years to change the way we live, avert the depletion of natural resources and the catastrophic evolution of the Earth’s climate.  Participate in a lively discussion before and after the film.  Questions? Xiaochen Zhang at zxc@vt.edu.

MONTHLY BOOK CLUB
Thursday Mar 4, 6:00-8:00pm, Easy Chair Coffee Shop
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc will hold its monthly Book Club with special guest discussion leader Dr. Gena Chandler, asst professor of English. Each month the club reads a different book and then meets to discuss it.  The book for March is Victoire: My Mother’s Mother by Maryse Conde (participants secure their own copies). If you are a graduate student who enjoys extra-curricular reading and lively discussion, please join. All are welcome.  For more information please contact Alicia Feagins:  afeagins@vt.edu

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
– Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
– Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
– Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

2. SNOWDEAN CHALLENGE 2010
What would the dean of the Graduate School look like if she were a snow(wo)man? Build your image of the dean into a snowman on the GLC lawn. Some props may be available through the Graduate School. Challenge stands until all the snow melts or Monika retires, whichever comes first. Best snowdean entries will be photographed with the real dean (she doesn’t know it yet; we’ll see if she reads the Monday postings…) and the photos displayed on the Grad School website. The creator of the best entry will receive a box of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream in the flavor of his/her own choosing.

3. HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAINING SESSION
Tuesday, Feb 16, 5:30pm in GLC Room C
The Graduate Honor System (GHS), charged with enforcing the Graduate Honor Code and improving and upholding academic integrity at Virginia Tech, is seeking new student and faculty panelists to work with the Honor System in this academic year and beyond. To become a panelist, attend one of the hour-long training sessions. To learn more about the GHS and its role in the University community, please visit the GHS site or send questions to ghs@vt.edu.

4. GRAD FAIR
Wednesday, Feb 17, 11:30am–7:30pm, Holtzman Alumni Center
Get all your graduation needs in one location: cap and gown, graduation announcements, commencement information, diploma frames, class rings and more. 
Free pizza and drinks! Plus iTunes and University Bookstore Gift Card Drawings.

5. FREE FITNESS ASSESSMENT
Wednesday, Feb 17, 4:00-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Free to all graduate students who want to learn about their fitness levels and the programs that can help them reach their fitness goals. Seven health-related components will be measured by trained staff members from Rec Sports to establish your fitness level: cardio-respiratory endurance; body composition; muscular strength; muscular endurance; flexibility; resting heart rate; and blood pressure. Stop by the GLC anytime between 4pm and 7pm.

6. ETD SERIES: COPYRIGHT
Thursday, Feb 18, 7:00-8:30pm, GLC Room F
Presenter Gail McMillan of University Libraries will help you with copyright matters as you prepare to write your thesis or dissertation.
 
7. GALILEO SKETCH COMEDY SHOW
Friday, Feb 19, 8:00pm in GLC Auditorium
Come out for a great laugh by the renowned sketch comedy group- Galileo Players. "I laughed so hard I cried. I especially liked the intellectual content of the show. Whoever said science isn’t funny obviously has never seen the Galileo Players," said a 2007 VT grad student. Get your tickets early online , stop by the GSA office or purchase them at the door for just $5.00. Get them early before they sell out! Questions?Contact Lindsay Moss. 
 
8. SUPPORT/COUNSELING GROUP FOR GRADS
Tuesdays, Feb 8-Apr 19, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room D
Do you have a loss of drive or passion for things personally and professionally? Do you have many doubts? Are you finding it hard to make decisions? Are you having a tough time balancing career, family, and friends? If you are 21-29 of age and ask these or similar questions of yourself, this group may be just for you. If you are interested in attending the support/counseling group or have any questions, please contact Jodie Kern-Bowen by email or 540-231-1719 on VT campus.

9. SIGN UP FOR GRADUATE SCHOLARS SOCIETY SPRING 2010
It’s not too late to join one of the GSS discussion groups if you are interested in exploring important issues outside of your discipline. This semester’s topics include Haiti, Islam, Free Speech and Political Correctness, and the Changing Nature of Higher Education in the 21st Century. Sign up online  or email Eric Hodges.

10. GRADUATE STUDENT PHOTO & ART CONTEST 2010 – enter by March 10
Help us decorate the GLC and win an award during Grad Ed Week! The Graduate School seeks submissions of photographs and artwork by graduate students for display in the Graduate Life Center. All selected entries will be displayed in the GLC on a temporary, rotating basis. Enter by March 10. This year’s theme: The NRV through Graduate Students’ Eyes. The new set of photos and artwork will be unveiled during Graduate Education Week, March 22-26. More information>>

11. ETHICS BOWL 2010-sign up now
Test your sense of ethics, communication and critical thinking skills during the 3rd annual Ethics Bowl organized by the Graduate School. Consider, discuss and resolve case-study based ethical dilemmas with fellow students and faculty on Tuesday, March 2, 3:00-4:30pm in the GLC Multipurpose Room. You may sign up as a team of 3-4, or as an individual and be assigned to a team by the organizers. Teams may include current VT students, faculty or staff, but team leaders must be graduate students. Register by Friday, Feb 26, 12:00 noon.

12. GLC RESIDENT FELLOW POSITIONS OPEN FOR 2010-2011
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students to live in the GLC and take on Residence Life and programming duties. An ideal candidate would have previous Residence Life experience. Compensation includes a free room in the GLC, a monthly stipend and a partial tuition waiver. Application materials must be turned in to the Graduate Student Services office (110 GLC – Lauren Keister) by noon on Friday, Feb 26. For more information contact Katie Greenleaf, 231-5691 or Lauren Keister, 231-9561.  Download application here.

13. GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP POSITION AVAILABLE 2010-11
Assessment coordinator graduate assistantship position available for the next academic year in the Division of Student Affairs’ Communications & Marketing Department in New Hall West. The position reports to the Associate Director of Administration for Communications and to the Chief of Staff. Duties include developing and implementing assessment strategies that lead to continuous improvement of programs and services that support the division’s mission.  Must have master’s degree; experience working with assessment of student affairs programs; understanding of accreditation criteria and standards; collaborative attitude; data collection, management and analysis skills; ability to write and present clear and concise reports.  The position would likely pay at step 13. Contact Kimberle Badinelli, badinell@vt.edu or 1-5258 to apply or for further information.  Apply by March 1.

14. SUSTAINABILITY SPEAKER SERIES
The GLC Speaker Series is looking for volunteers wishing to present their work in an inter-disciplinary environment pertaining to sustainability. Sustainability, in this context, is broadly defined and submissions are welcome from all disciplines. If you wish to relate issues of sustainability to the earthquake in Haiti, this is a welcoming forum to do so. If interested, please submit a brief statement of your research/talk to Meredith Katz at mekatz@vt.edu. Speaker series will run throughout the Spring 2010 semester.

15. GSA TRAVEL FUND APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED NOW
The GSA Travel Fund Program (TFP) offers awards to support the cost of presenting at a conference.  Master’s students may receive up to $350 and doctoral students up to $500.  The application period for travel between January 1 and June 30 will be open from February 1 to March 5.  Visit the GSA website for instructions on how to apply.  Please contact Lora Cavuoto at lcavuoto@vt.edu with any questions.

16. GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FUNDS AVAILABLE
Cycle II of the Gradate Research Development Program (GRDP) is now open through Feb 26, 2010. GRDP is a competitive research funding program administered by the GSA to support qualified research and innovative ideas proposed by VT graduate students. Applications go through a rigorous review process by a panel of graduate students and faculty. Visit the GSA website to learn more about this opportunity. All questions should be directed to the program chair, Mr. Amine Chigani, achigani@vt.edu.

17. AEL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY SEEKING NEW MEMBERS – 2nd posting
Application are accepted for the AEL Grad Honor Society: Alpha Epsilon Lambda (AEL) is the academic excellence and leadership honor society of graduate and professional school students. Graduate students may become members based on their academic achievements and leadership experiences. Apply online by Feb 26. The induction ceremony for new members will take place during Graduate Education Week, Mar 22-26.

18. LEADERSHIP HONOR SOCIETY SEEKS MEMBERS
Omicron Delta Kappa is a national leadership honor society that recognizes the highest achieving individuals in different leadership areas at our university.  The Alpha Omicron Circle at VT began in 1933. Every VT president has been a member of Omicron Delta Kappa, along with other highly regarded students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Join this long standing tradition and apply for membership by Feb 17. Applications: http://odk.org/audience/prospective_members/membership_application_form. Send  questions to odkmembership@vt.edu or visit www.odk.org.vt.edu for more information.

19. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Abstract submission deadline Feb 26. The 26th Annual GSA Research Symposium will be held on Mar 24 in the Graduate Life Center, and the GLC Plaza. The symposium includes poster and oral presentations and video and performance categories. Students from the National Capital Region will participate through video-Conferencing. $9500 in prizes will be awarded! The keynote speaker is 2007 Nobel Laureate Dr. Andrew Weaver, a lead author of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Please visit www.gsasymposium2010.uusa.vt.edu for more information. If you have questions, please contact the GSA Research Symposium Chair, Ganesh Balasubramanian, at bganesh@vt.edu.

20. GSA STUDENT FEES COMMITTEE NEEDS YOUR FEEDBACK
The GSA Student Fees Committee was established a couple of years ago to address the issues and concerns regarding graduate student fees at VT. The comprehensive fees have increased in recent years while assistantship stipends have not. This committee is committed to helping explore possible solutions to this growing problem but they need your help. Please fill out a brief survey to give feedback about your concerns and needs on this topic. If you have any questions please contact the GSA Fees Committee Chair, Sonal Mazumder at sonalm08@vt.edu.

21. GET INVOLVED WITH CITIZEN SCHOLARS
Does your research benefit the local or global community?  Would you like to
help out Haiti but aren’t sure how? Learn more about how to get involved with the Citizen Scholar Experience project. Email Eric Hodges at hodgeseb@vt.edu any questions or concerns.

22. REGISTER FOR CONFERENCE ON HIGHER EDUCATION PEDAGOGY
Register now for this free conference on Feb 18-19 at The Inn at Virginia Tech. This annual conference is focused on teaching excellence and the scholarship of teaching and learning in higher education, featuring two invited keynote speakers (Lisa Lattuca and Mary Taylor Huber), 42 research- and practice-based sessions, and over 40 posters. Registration is open to faculty, administrators, and graduate students. Conference attendance is free and includes lunch both days as well as a printed copy of the conference proceedings to be distributed following the conference. For more information and registration, visit http://www.cider.vt.edu/conference/.

23. APPLICATIONS SOUGHT FOR GOVERNER’S FELLOWS PROGRAM
Applications are sought for the 2010 Virginia Governor’s Fellows Program. Applicants must be graduating seniors or enrolled as degree candidates in a graduate or professional program. Application and selection procedures are available at: www.governor.virginia.gov/ServingVirginia/Fellows.cfm. Selection is based on merit without regard to race, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, or political affiliation. Fellows will be required to work full-time in the Virginia state government from Jun 7 through Jul 30, 2010. Virginia Tech provides a stipend to support selected fellows. Online applications and submission by mail of two recommendations and an official transcript must be received in the governor’s office by Friday, Mar 5, 2010. For additional information please call (540) 231-6272.

24. UPCOMING EVENTS:

EATING ISSUES AND BODY IMAGE AWARENESS WEEK
A series of activities and events will mark the eating issues and awareness week of Feb 22-26. For a full listing of programs, visit www.healthcenter.vt.edu/he/eventcalendar/eibiaw.htm. The keynote address will be on Tuesday, Feb 23, 7:00pm in the GLC Auditorium.

LaTeX WORKSHOP II
Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb 23 and 24, 5:30-7:30pm, GLC Room F
This workshop is designed to address intermediate level concerns of LaTeX users. It will cover more extensive preamble options (e.g. creating and renewing commands, page layout, title/author information, internal/external referencing), environments (e.g. equations, tables, figures and floats in general), creating a final LaTeX file from multiple LaTeX files, and a brief introduction to citation management (BibTeX) and presentations (via the beamer package). The presentation will leave some time for a Q&A session. Questions: Jonathan Duggins at dugginsj@vt.edu.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH LUNCH
Wednesday, February 24th, 11:30-1:30, GLC Room F
Join the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives for lunch on Wednesday, February 24, 2010, in celebration of Black History Month.  Meet and greet fellow African American graduate students and faculty as well as the Graduate School deans.  This is also an opportunity to share ideas and discuss issues related to the African American community at Virginia Tech.  If you are interested in attending, please sign up for the lunch at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1265741099573.  For more information, please contact Jane Rorrer by e-mail jrorrer@vt.edu or by phone (540) 231-2494.

FROM VINTAGE TO VELOUR: PARTYING THROUGH THE DECADES – NEW DATE!!!
Friday, Feb 26, 7-9pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The party is back on! Break out your poodle skirts, go-go boots, leg warmers, and skinny jeans for this welcome back party sponsored by the GLC Fellows. Dress up in fashion from your favorite decade, listen to a variety of music from old-school until now, and enjoy snacks and refreshments. Bring a picture of yourself from the past to share! It will be a totally cool and rad event. Be there or be square!

LUNCH WITH THE PRESIDENT
Monday, Mar 1, 12:00-1:30pm, The Inn at Virginia Tech
Chat with President Steger, Provost McNamee, and Dean DePauw! Lunch will be provided. All graduate students are invited to attend. Sign up by Feb 22 at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1265902593844 Questions? Contact Rebecca French, Grad Rep to VT BOV at rafbovgradrep@vt.edu.