Photo Spotlights

RIT alumna and scholar N. Katherine Hayles, professor of literature and media art at University of California, visited RIT May 4 to meet with faculty and to present her talk, "Literature as a Computational Practice." She is considered a central figure in establishing connections among literature, media and science, and is the author of several books. Hayles earned her B.S. in chemistry from RIT. She holds advanced degrees in chemistry from California Institute of Technology and literature from Michigan State University.

Sen. Hillary Clinton presented $4 million for RIT's alternative fuels research during a ceremony on May 5. Along with Sen. Chuck Schumer, Clinton sponsored the funding as part of last year's Surface Transportation Reauthorization Act. During her visit, the senator also announced that $8 million has been appropriated for next fiscal year to support RIT's military modernization program. Both the alternative fuels and military initiatives are based in RIT's Center for Integrated Manufacturing Studies.

Jessica Schaller of St. John Fisher College presents her study, Female Athletes in the Media: Under Representation and Inadequacy, at RIT’s third annual Conference for Undergraduate Research in Communication, hosted April 19, by the RIT Department of Communication. Nearly 45 students from 10 colleges across New York gathered in the Student Alumni Union to share research papers, posters and other works with peers and the public.

The RIT community enjoyed a Taste of RIT on April 28 with a sampling of appetizers, entrées, desserts and beverages. This delicious annual event was sponsored by RIT Food Service as part of the United Way campaign.

Roland Fryer Jr., assistant professor of economics at Harvard University, discussed race and inequality during RIT's Presidential Colloquium on May 1. The lecture, "Towards a Unified Theory of Black America: The Racial Achievement Gap and What to do About It," described economic reasoning to dispel misconceptions in the affirmative action debate. Fryer's appearance coincided with RIT's annual Expression of Diversity Conference.

Rebecca Stade, 9, examines and identifies archaeological artifacts during RIT's Take Your Daughter or Son to Work Day on April 27. Rebecca is the daughter of Mary Beth Russo-Stade, who works with Hub Print/Postal Services. About 130 children took part in the day's activities, which included campus tours, lessons in film and animiation and toy design, and swimming.

The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina is just one of the major news events covered by photojournalist Chris Usher. His photographs appear regularly in international and domestic publications including People and Time. His exhibit of behind-the-scenes moments at the White House — Behind the Velvet Rope — has been on display throughout the United States. Usher will speak at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 10, in Building 6, room A205. This photograph depicts a victim of Hurricane Katrina.

RIT/NTID student Michelle Koplitz has been teaching 7-year-old Ryan Wagner how to swim for the last three quarters. He says she has helped him overcome his fear of water and now really enjoys swimming. Read the full story in News & Events.

On Aylia’s Wings, created by RIT faculty member and professional artist Allen Douglas, is one of the submissions for this year’s Golisano College Digital Arts Competition and Exhibition. The event aims to promote expression through digital media. Entries in various categories including conceptual art, wall-hung pieces, installations and monitor-based work will be on display May 12-14 throughout the entire Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences building.

Alyssa Bennett, third-year nutrition management major, left, and Andrea Lo, second-year hospitality and service management major, prepare truffles for the 21st annual Puttin’ on the RITz dinner-dance, hosted by RIT School of Hospitality and Service Management students, April 1 at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. The gala benefited the hospitality education fund for student awards, educational travel, equipment and scholarships.

Edward Tunstel, a senior robotics engineer with NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, in Pasadena, Calif., discussed "Robotically Roving the Red Planet for Two (Earth) Years...and Counting" on April 14 at RIT.

Young hunters track down their prey as the RIT Leadership Institute played host to an Easter egg hunt on April 15. More than 1,000 candy-filled eggs were hidden across the Eastman Kodak Quad and available for the taking. About 125 youngsters—all children of RIT faculty, staff and students—enjoyed the festivities.