300 The Fenway

Gloria Steinem visits Simmons College for Women's History Month

Amanda Voodre — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 10:19:57 PDT

Photo copyright Martha Rial/St Petersburg Times/ZUMA Press

Happy Women's History Month! Simmons College is celebrating big this year with a special visit from Gloria Steinem, one of the most significant and iconic figures of the women's rights movement. She will be on campus March 22 to discuss modern day feminism.

From the Simmons College Press Room:

Steinem, who last visited the Simmons campus 40 years ago in 1973 when she received the first doctorate for Human Justice awarded by the College, will address students, faculty, and staff in the talk, "The F Word: Feminism Today." Steinem's visit is part of SimmonsPalooza, a series of events and programs focused on the celebration of diversity, inclusion, and social activism at Simmons. The event is being organized by the Simmons Class of 2013 in collaboration with the Office of Student Leadership and Activities, the President's Office, and the Alumnae Association Executive Board.

The event is for the Simmons community and is not open to the public.

Women's History Month began in 1987 when the National Women's History Project petitioned Congress to officially recognize women's history, which at the time was largely missing from the general public consciousness.

In addition to Gloria Steinem's visit, Simmons is celebrating Women's History Month with several events scheduled throughout March that are open to the public. Highlights include:

LUNAFEST
Tuesday, March 5 at 6 p.m.
Kotzen Meeting Room, Main College Building
The Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change along with the Sexuality, Women, and Gender (SWAG) Center and the interdisciplinary minor in Cinema and Media Studies is hosting the 12th annual LUNAFEST, a touring film festival featuring award-winning "short films by, for, and about women." Donations will be accepted at the door and all proceeds will benefit the Breast Cancer Fund.

The 16th Annual International Women's Day Breakfast
Friday, March 8, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Linda K. Paresky Conference Center
Simmons College is once again hosting the annual International Women's Day celebration breakfast. This year's theme is "Women and Hunger: Putting Food on the Table." Suggested donation is $6. R.S.V.P. online.

Educate, Empower, Transform: The Role of Girls' Education in the Developing World
Tuesday, March 8 at 6:00 p.m.
Linda K. Paresky Conference Center
In partnership with Room to Read, 85 Broads Boston Chapter and the Simmons School of Management Center for Gender in Organizations, the Simmons Institute for Leadership and Change is hosting "Educate, Empower, Transform: The Role of Girls' Education in the Developing World." Panelists include Dr. Joyce Fletcher, Barbara Heffner, and Christina Sellini.

For a complete list of events, visit the Department of Women's and Gender Studies website.

For more info, news, events, and stories about Women's History Month, stay tuned to 300 The Fenway, the Simmons Facebook page, and on Twitter @SimmonsCollege #womenshistory.

Want to learn more about Simmons' women's history? Visit the Library Archives.

Simmons students talk about life at college

Amanda Voodre — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 06:03:10 PST

Going to college for the first time can be both an exciting, and intimidating experience. Add to that the decision to attend a women's college and live in a big city, and the questions only multiple.

But what is life really like as a Simmons student? We chatted with current undergraduate students to get the all details!

What is it like living with a roommate? One of the biggest anxieties for the majority of college students is living in a dorm and sharing a room. "I have found Simmons residence halls are a very relaxed, clean, safe, and a comfortable place to unwind after a busy day on the Academic Campus," says Kendall Bauer '16. The most important aspect of living at Simmons is that students feel they are part of a community. "The residence halls here have a homey feel, and Resident Advisors really work to foster a sense of community amongst their residents," says Molly Maidman '13. What do you do for fun? Since Simmons is located in the heart of Boston, students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities on and off campus. Some of their favorite things to do include going out for dinner with friends; exploring the city; shopping on Newbury Street; going to the movies (students get discounted tickets!); and attending different concerts and shows. "I love exploring new areas of Boston I've never been to," says Chelsea Keyes '14. "I also enjoy visiting friends at neighboring colleges since there are so many nearby."
What do you like about living in Boston? Although the greater Boston area is home to 4.5 million people, Boston is a "city of neighborhoods," and many students say it's easy to get around. "Everything here is very accessible, so I can get almost anywhere I need to either by walking or taking the T," says Molly '13. "I feel comfortable walking around the city, and I know I can always stop someone on the street if I need help with something." With all that Boston has to offer, it's no surprise that many students stick around to find jobs and internships. "I can see myself staying here after I graduate because the city has so much to offer," says Kendall '16. "The longer I am here, the more I want to stay!" How would you describe the Simmons community? As a Simmons student, you are a member of a tightly-knit community of current students, faculty, staff and alumnae who are there to support you throughout your career. "At the beginning of my college experience, I wasn't sure where I fit in the Simmons community," says Kendall '16. "But now I feel I belong here at Simmons because of the guidance of women leaders, faculty, and friends who all care about my personal well-being and success."
Is it easy to get involved on campus? At the beginning of each semester Simmons hosts the Connections Carnival, which gives students the opportunity to learn about and sign up for different organizations and groups on campus. "It is so easy to get involved," says Nerissa Chan '14. "With the right organization you can really find yourself having the time of your life in college." There are more than 70 organizations on campus and if students can't find exactly what they are looking for, they can create a new organization. "I think that getting involved was the best thing I could've done as a first-year," says Kendall '16. "People who are the most involved feel a connection to the Simmons community right away, which will lead to their success and overall happiness." Still have questions about what it's like to be a Simmons student? Check out the Woman on Campus video series, visit the Simmons Life blog, or tweet to @SimmonsCollege. Content for this post was contributed by: Kendall Bauer '16, Public Relations/Marketing Communications Nerissa Chan '14, Communications and Business Management Chelsea Keyes '14, Public Relations/Marketing Communications Molly Maidman '13, Psychology and Sociology

Seven ways to stay motivated during your final semester

Marissa Window — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 08:34:38 PST

As winter break approaches many students are excited for a month off to spend time with the family, work, or travel. For seniors, the spring semester will be their last at Simmons, a daunting yet exciting experience. How do you make it through the final semester without letting senioritis take over? Here are seven ways to stay motivated.

Take a class outside of your major.: Simmons has many different classes to chose from. If you are on a science track, enroll in a beginners art course or take a class in the communications department. Try cross registering within the Colleges of the Fenway. The five other colleges have a variety of courses that are different than the ones offered at Simmons. Challenging yourself or trying something new is a good way to keep your interest in school and you also might discover a new hobby!
Start the job search.: It may be distracting, but it will motivate you to do your best during your final year. Looking for jobs early will give you a long-term goal, and something to look forward to prior to graduation. Searching for jobs will also give you something practical to do when you happen to be procrastinating.
Join a club.: This is your last chance to connect with new people and get to know your classmates. Take the leap and do something you've always wanted to do at Simmons, but never did. This is also a great way to network.

Enroll in a fitness class.: Staying active is a good way to keep up a positive attitude, feel good about yourself and stay fit. Simmons started the Lifelong Exercise and Activities Program (LEAP) in 1988, which offers yoga, spinning, dance and swimming classes. Need a workout buddy? Join Fit at Simmons, a peer education group that encourages fitness as a part of overall health and wellness. If you prefer to do things on your own then take an hour out of your day to go to the gym or for a run.
Take a break.: Don't study for hours on end. Your brain needs a break, too. Go for a walk around the Fenway, grab a coffee at Starbucks or Meyers, catch up on a favorite TV show or do some pleasure reading. Getting fresh air and relaxing will help clear your head. For some people, studying for hours on end works, but for many it just makes them want to give up, don't let yourself give up. Give your brain a break!
Go to class.: This sounds easier said than done. Don't have the attitude that the class you are taking as an elective doesn't matter; all classes matter. The more classes you miss, the easier it will be to make that a routine. Many professors factor attendance and class participation into your grade, so don't let laziness get in the way of finishing up your final year strong.
Create a bucket list.: Not the kind Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman have, but a list of things to do around Boston before you graduate. If you have time on the weekends, venture out and allow yourself to check off one of those things on your list. Boston has so many opportunities and this may be your last chance to take advantage of them as a college student.

Know Your Professor: Noah Wilson-Rich, urban beekeeper

Amanda Voodre — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 11:10:20 PST

Watch Noah Wilson-Rich: Every city needs honey bees

Meet Noah Wilson-Rich, one of Simmons College's newest faculty members in the Department of Biology. If there's one thing you need to know about Noah Wilson-Rich, it's that he's an expert on urban beekeeping. He recently gave an extremely popular TED Talk about the importance of honey bees in cities, and the key role they play in creating a sustainable ecosystem. In this edition of Know Your Professor, we chatted with Noah Wilson-Rich to find out more about his passion for bees, what he does when he's not teaching, and why he loves Simmons.

Any plans for a beehive at Simmons?: I am willing and ready to set up a (non-aggressive!) honey bee hive at Simmons anytime. I am a relentless proponent of urban beekeeping, urban agriculture, and sustainability as a whole. Anyone who eats food needs to understand that honey bees are of vital importance because of their role as pollinators.The Simmons Sustainability Club is working hard at getting a honey bee hive on campus. These Simmons honey bees would reflect the Simmons community in many ways.
How so?: Because bees are a female-dominated society that does extremely good work for the betterment of this world. The educational value of honey bees is endless. There are opportunities for hands-on agricultural and sustainability training; we can study systems to test theories relating to economics, sociology, biology, and chemistry; and the sale of honey and beeswax products can be a source of fundraising revenue for student groups. I strongly encourage everyone at Simmons to join the effort to bring honey bees to campus!
What's your favorite class to teach? Why?: Biology 342 - Topics in Behavioral Biology is my baby! I enjoy teaching this class for so many reasons. Animal behavior is so fascinating because we have been studying it our entire lives, whether consciously or not. Beyond studying the human animal, we take a lot of "virtual field trips" to become intimately familiar with all sorts of animals. So far this semester, we have learned interior decorating techniques from bowerbird nests in the dense forests of Papua New Guinea; dating and mate choice advice from seahorses; food selection techniques from platypuses and sharks; navigation techniques from sea turtles, sibling rivalry dynamics from African hyenas; and many, many more! Teaching this behavior course really is a dream come true for me.
What book are you currently reading?: Inferno by Max Hastings and Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins.

What's your favorite book?: The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath.
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?: This is the hardest question for me to answer! I never met two of my grandparents, so they come to mind. I would love to kick it with Oprah and convince her to help join the beekeeping movement. I also would love to sit down with Langstroth, the monk who created the current beehive structure that we still use today, and find out how he figured out the preferences of honey bees down to 1/8 of an inch!
What's your favorite website or social network?: www.facebook.com/bestbees
Fill in the blank: I love Simmons because__________: Everyone is incredibly friendly. Faculty say "hi" to one another in the parking lot, even if we've never met! I sincerely appreciate the lack of ego amongst the scholars here. If I do not know something and ask another, the answer always comes without judgment. This is such a wonderful place to learn for not only our enrolled students, but also for the entire Simmons community.
When I was in college, I__________: ... was nicknamed "The Mayor" because I was so outgoing. I would start up a conversation with pretty much anyone.
My hidden talent is:: Finding cheap airline tickets.
What is your favorite band/artist?
: Erykah Badu & Jill Scott (tie!)
What song is your personal anthem?: 4 Life by Nicki Minaj
Do you have a favorite TV show?: Real Housewives of Atlanta (It's on in the background right now!)
What's your favorite restaurant or hangout in Boston?: I have lived in the South End since 2005, so I frequent all the local South End restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. My favorite anytime place is Anchovies.
Describe Simmons in one word:: Remarkable
When I'm not teaching, I'm__________: Running my company, Best Bees. Find out more about Best Bees through our website and contact me for internship possibilities! We have three Simmons interns right now and they are fantastic!
I love my students because:: They are incredibly earnest. I have so much respect for my students at Simmons because they have worked so incredibly hard to get where they are today, and they come from such diverse backgrounds. I have one student who commutes by train from Lowell every day. I have another student whose husband lives in New York, whom she travels to see every weekend. I have three students who chose to intern at Best Bees, and they surprise me every day at how much they are able to accomplish. I am so honored to be a part of the Simmons community, and hope to stay for a long time!

---

If you're interested in learning more about biology lecturer Noah Wilson-Rich and his adventures in urban beekeeping, visit the Best Bees Company website, or check out the Best Bees Facebook page and YouTube channel. Simmons students, be sure to contact him for internship opportunities at noah@bestbees.com.

To learn more about the biology program, visit the Department of Biology website. Be sure to like Simmons College on Facebook, follow the College on Twitter @SimmonsCollege, and check out Simmons College on YouTube.

Then and Now: Simmons celebrates the school's history

Marissa Window — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 12:08:49 PST

Each year, Simmons College celebrates its history by holding a Founder's Day ceremony in memory of John Simmons. Much has changed since Simmons first opened its doors in 1899, but its mission to educate women for an independent livelihood remains the same. Take a look at Simmons then and now.

Learn more about the College's history by visiting the Simmons College Archives.

Registration now open for the 2013 Simmons Leadership Conference

Kellie Ryan — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 08:39:45 PDT

Watch: Highlights from the 2012 Simmons Leadership Conference: Innovation & Impact.

Ticket are now on sale for the 2013 Simmons Leadership Conference to be held at the Seaport World Trade Center in Boston on April 2, 2013. This year's theme is Women of Influence, and the day-long conference will feature program sessions focused on skill-building, networking, and knowledge exchange with inspiring women leaders.

Considered by many as the most powerful woman on wall street, keynote speaker Sallie Krawcheck will kick off the morning program. Other keynote speakers include, thought leader Charlene Li; playwright, performer, and educator Anna Deavere Smith; and award-winning actress Viola Davis.

The Simmons Leadership Conference is the premiere event for women. Attendees have the opportunity to be educated on new and emerging business trends, and to network with other powerful women. All proceeds from the conference support scholarships to students in graduate programs at Simmons College.

Watch the highlights above from the 2012 Simmons Leadership Conference. To register online, visit the Simmons Leadership Conference website. Follow the Simmons Leadership Conference on Twitter and Like the Facebook page for more info.

Simmons commits to social change by holding first student-led Gender, Justice, and Social Entrepreneurship Conference

Marissa Window — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 09:49:50 PDT

Simmons College recently hosted its inaugural student-led Gender, Justice, and Social Entrepreneurship Conference, sponsored by the Simmons School of Management and the College of Arts and Sciences. This year's conference was focused on discussing the intersection of gender and food justice and brought together more than 150 members of the Simmons community.

Considering Simmons' strong commitment to finding innovative solutions to social change, with a specific focus on developing women leaders, the conference was an ideal fit for the community. Adding to the uniqueness of the conference, it was a student-led initiative. There was an application process at the end of spring semester, and three full-time and three part-time students were selected by professors to work on all aspects of developing the conference from May until October.

Gender and food justice is a complex subject that is often overlooked. Statistics from the World Food Programme show that women make up a little over half of the world's population, but account for over 60 percent of the world's hungry. The statistics reveal that it isn't simply about choice, but rather something political.

"Every facet of food is gendered: production, access, preparation, consumption, etc. As we discussed [the topic] further, we grew more excited, and we believed that it would be a great platform for our first conference," says student organizer Carla Gomes '13.

Dean Renee White told conference attendees that social entrepreneurs are change agents of society and they help to advance sustainable solutions to improve the human condition. In regards to food justice, she said it's about ensuring people have access to adequate amounts of safe and nutritious food. Potential solutions were discussed at the conference that would help communities grow and decrease the likelihood of further hardships. For example, in the days leading up to the conference, student organizer Allison Whittier provided the Simmons community with access to nutritious and affordable food by hosting Marshalls Farm stand on the academic quad.

Student organizers say the conference was successful in initiating an ongoing conversation on how each member of the Simmons community can contribute to social change. Join in on the conversation and stay updated on next year's conference by liking the Gender, Social Justice, & Social Entrepreneurship page on Facebook.

Where are they now? Megan Johnson '07 is celebrity news journalist for the Boston Herald

Marissa Window — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 08:00:02 PDT

Welcome to 300 The Fenway's latest installment of "Where are they now?", a feature that chronicles the amazing things Simmons College women are accomplishing after graduation.

Meet Megan Johnson from the Class of 2007. Megan graduated from Simmons with B.A. in English and minors in East Asian studies and history, and is now a writer for the Boston Herald's Insider Track. Since working at the Boston Herald, Megan has made her mark covering the Boston celebrity scene, and was featured in Stuff Magazine's "30 under 30 and Overachieving" list. We had the chance to chat with Megan and get a glimpse into her fast-paced career.

What is a typical day like at your job?

There really is no typical day at my job. I work for a column called the Inside Track, which follows celebrities, politicians, athletes, etc. Each day we have to come up with a column for the next day's newspaper. So every morning, we start with almost nothing.

Usually, I wake up and read my emails and all the sites where I get my news, I check Twitter for tips, and keep my eyes open for interesting stories. I'm in the office around noon, at which point I'm continuing to stalk Twitter and the internet for stories; interviewing subjects; fielding calls; doing random administrative stuff; and attempting to plan what our section is going to have in the paper the next day.

What was the job application process like for you?

My job application process was not traditional. I was unemployed for awhile before I started at the Boston Herald. I worked freelance and taught English as a Second Language, but I didn't have full time work for a long time. When I met the girl who had my job before me, I instantly thought, "That would be the perfect job for me!" We became friendly, and ultimately, when she was ready to leave, she got me an interview along with three other candidates.

I had been on so many job interviews since I graduated, but I remember the night before I came in for the interview, I was watching "Wall Street" where Charlie Sheen says, "Your life comes down to just a few moments. This is one of them." I just remember thinking that line as I walked into the Herald, where I previously had two other horrible job interviews (for other gigs). I was so focused; just so adamant that this job was mine. I presented my binder of all my published clips to my bosses, and just tried to act like myself. The day before I found out whether or not I got the job, I was so wrought with anxiety. When my boss called and said, "Are you sure you're willing to work this job for next to nothing?!" I said "yes, yes yes!"

What is your favorite part of your job?

I have so many favorite parts. I love to write, of course, so getting paid to do that is wonderful. But, being able to meet and interview notable people I look up to is a great experience. I love that every day is an adventure. Sometimes I think I'm going to have a slow day, and I end up chasing the Bruins around town as they carry the Stanley Cup in a baby carriage.

How did you know the organization was a good fit for you?

I didn't know if the Boston Herald was a good fit when I applied. I still think that to a certain extent, I'm a square peg in a round hole at the Herald. It was absolutely a bit of a culture shock for me when I came to work here. But, the topic of entertainment and celebrities was something I knew like the back of my hand. I don't think you really can know if a place is a good fit until you give it a shot.

What was your favorite class you took at Simmons? Why?

The short-term course I took in Japan with my fellow East Asian studies minors was a highlight. I also loved any of my literature classes, like "Critical Interpretation, the English novel through Austen," and even "Shakespeare", which I was terrified for.

If you could come back and take one class at Simmons what would it be?

I'd definitely love to take another English class, possibly one that I missed because it wasn't offered that semester. I just loved my English professors.

How has it been transitioning into a young professional?

My transition from college student to young professional could only be described as... a train wreck! I thought I was so ready to take on the world, and in reality, I just fell apart completely after graduation. I didn't have a job I loved and I think I was just so hurt and disappointed that my post-grad life didn't result in what I expected.

Of course, now, I'm grateful for those years. I can truly appreciate being happy. Now at age 27, I find life as a young professional very enjoyable. I'm still very close with my Simmons friends, and we really do our best to stay in touch. However, I wouldn't exactly say I've figured out how to manage the work/social life idea. I work a lot and sometimes I couldn't care less about going out on the weekends if it means I can take the chance to go to sleep early.

How did Simmons help prepare you for your career?

Academically, I was incredibly prepared because I utilized my time in school so well. I tried really hard to learn as much as possible at Simmons. The English department was so wonderful. Ultimately, they taught me how to write, which is what I do all day long at work. But, they also taught me to think critically, and how to analyze information and express myself eloquently. To this day, when I see an interesting episode of a TV show, I start to formulate a thesis statement in my head that would be fitting for an English paper.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Oh my gosh. Honestly, I don't know where I am going to be next year, let alone in 10 years. I made a vow to myself to live 100% in the present instead of dwelling on the past or solely focusing on the future. And I think that does me well.

What advice would you give to the current Simmons undergrads?

There are two things I've learned through my professional career that I think are incredibly important and often forgotten in the workplace:

Be a kind, friendly individual. I cannot tell you how much this matters in the workplace. The connections you make are what will lead you to the next level and bring new opportunities to you. One of the greatest thing a leader can have is good people skills.

Secondly, hard work conquers all. I believe hard work is more important than talent. I like to think I am where I am because of a little bit of luck, and a lot a bit of the blood, sweat and tears that I put into my chosen field.

Are you a recent Simmons alumna that is making strides as a young professional? Send us a message at @SimmonsCollege or facebook.com/SimmonsCollege

Fenway neighborhood opens its doors to Boston community

Marissa Window — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 12:08:12 PDT

Simmons is fortunate to be located in what some consider "Boston's secret little neighborhood", an area that offers a mix of museums, historic landmarks, and music venues. The Fenway neighborhood is often associated with the city's beloved Red Sox, but did you know it's also home to numerous cultural, medical, and academic institutions?

Opening our Doors, an annual event organized by The Fenway Alliance, aims to highlight the neighborhood's vibrancy. The festival is held each year on Columbus Day and is considered the largest single day cultural experience in Boston. And it's free! Opening our Doors drew a crowd last year of more than 14,000 people and it's expected to attract even more attendees for this year's October 8 celebration.

The day will kick off with an opening ceremony at the Christian Science Plaza with an appearance by Mayor Menino. Numerous free events will continue around the neighborhood throughout the day, ranging from music and dance performances to historical tours and lectures. Some of the day's most anticipated events include; glass blowing demonstrations; free admission to the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum; and chalk art with Sidewalk Sam and ArtStreet.

For a full listing of events check out The Fenway Alliance's Opening our Doors program book or tweet questions to @FenwayCulture. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by Simmons and say hello!

Talk to students, meet professors during Simmons College's Fall Open House

Amanda Voodre — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 10:57:23 PDT

Simmons College is getting ready to host two major undergraduate open houses this fall, along with a slew of other admission information sessions, and Woman on Campus Sarah Galvez '15 has the scoop on what visitors can expect when they attend. Watch!

Register now to attend an open house and you'll have the opportunity to talk with current students and professors, and learn more about the application and financial aid process:

More info on why you should come visit Simmons this fall:

Get to know us better! Connect with the Simmons community by liking Simmons College on Facebook and following us on Twitter @SimmonsCollege. Don't be afraid to ask us any questions!

Psst: We're also on Tumblr!

Take a photo tour of the Simmons College campus

Marissa Window — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 14:00:43 PDT

Interested in taking a tour of Simmons College, but haven't been able to make it to Boston, yet? Or maybe you want to reminisce about your time here, or see how much the campus has changed. 300 The Fenway has compiled some of our favorite photos of the academic and residential campuses to give you a special look at Simmons!

Want to see Simmons for yourself? Attend one of our Fall Open Houses or info sessions!

Half the Sky Movement turns oppression into opportunity for women

Marissa Window — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:06:54 PDT

[Watch the trailer for "Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide"]

Alarming statistics from the United Nations capture a global issue of gender inequality, but what can be done to fix it?

The Half the Sky Movement, inspired by Pulitzer Prize journalists Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn, is a new campaign that aims to shed light on women's issues, and provide concrete steps on how to help fight women's oppression. By using new technologies and social media to bring together videos; websites; games; and blogs, Half the Sky hopes to raise global awareness and inspire change.

Its chief documentary, Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide, was filmed in ten countries and exposes the hardships committed against women around the world. Some of the topics include, gender-based violence; economic empowerment; education; forced prostitution; maternal mortality; and sex trafficking.

Simmons College shares Half the Sky's mission by empowering women with education and classes specifically designed to tackle global issues of gender inequality. Professor Shelley White teaches International Health, an undergraduate sociology course that focuses on how global gender inequalities adversely affect health outcomes for women. Students learn topics ranging from the commercial sex trade, to the censorship and manipulation of family planning information; to the inequitable burden of domestic work that often prevents women for gaining economic independence.

"My hope is that students leave my class with a deep and nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of girl's and women's human rights with the realization of global health advancement," says Professor Shelley White.

"Half the Sky" will be shown as a two-part special presentation on PBS on Oct. 1 & 2 at 9:00 p.m..

Interested in joining the movement? Become a Half the Sky campus ambassador and help hold a screening and discussion of the documentary on campus. Be sure to check out more information on Half the Sky Movement and follow @half on Twitter and Facebook.

The premier Horn Book at Simmons Colloquium celebrates best in children's literature

Amanda Voodre — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 08:13:33 PDT

Look out! The Simmons Center for the Study of Children's Literature is once again partnering with The Horn Book to host the 2012 Boston Globe-Horn Book Awards and the Horn Book at Simmons Colloquium, a premier event celebrating the best in children's and young adult literature.

The theme of this year's colloquium is Look Out! and participants will join the award-winning authors, illustrators and publishers to talk about their books through various perspectives. The program states:

All of us involved in children's literature are on the lookout. Writers and illustrators look out at their worlds through the lens of story and art. Publishers, reviewers, and critics look for compelling new visions in the pages of children's books. Teachers, librarians, and booksellers look to make meaningful connections between books and readers.

Associate Professor Amy Pattee from the Simmons Graduate School of Library and information Science will lead a panel discussion about 'looking out" through an academic lens.

The Boston Globe-Horn Book Awards ceremony and the Horn Book at Simmons Colloquium is Sept. 28 & 29 at Simmons College. For more information, visit the Horn Book at Simmons Colloquium program schedule and follow @HornBook on Twitter.

[image courtesy of The Horn Book]

Boston Mayor Thomas Menino encourages college students to get out and explore the city

Amanda Voodre — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 08:39:19 PDT

In a recent video released by the City of Boston, Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino does his part to welcome new college students by urging them to "break the bubble" and get out and explore Boston.

He lists numerous advantages to living in Boston, including direct access to world-class museums, parks, and internship and job opportunities. He also encourages students to volunteer and get involved with local politics.

There are several ways Simmons students can stay connected with the city to make their time in Boston both safe, and rewarding. You can start by following the Mayor's "Break the Bubble" student initiative on Twitter @brkthebubble, and by visiting the student section on the City of Boston website. To report any issues or problems, you can call the city's 24-hour hotline at 617-635-4500 or download the Citizen's Connect smartphone app.

We love that we're located right in the heart of Boston, and we hope our students do, too! Check out our list of the top six things to do in Boston (while the weather is still nice!), and watch Sarah Galvez '15, Woman on Campus, as she shows you her favorite places in Boston. To learn more about our Boston-area volunteer opportunities, visit the Scott/Ross Center for Community Service website.

What are you favorite things about Boston? Let us know on the Simmons College Facebook page or by tweeting to @SimmonsCollege.

Communications student designs flag for New England Patriots

Marissa Window — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 06:50:24 PDT

It's September, which means back to school, pumpkin spice lattes, and for sports fans, the return of football season! Earlier this summer, Simmons College media arts communications student Amelia Cordischi '15 won a contest sponsored by the NFL to design a flag for her home team, the New England Patriots.

The inaugural NFL Fan Flag Challenge asked participants to design a flag for their region's team to help celebrate the 93rd season of the league. Entrants were also asked to write essays describing the vision and what inspired their design.

In her essay, Amelia captures what being a Patriots fan means to her, and how football builds a sense of community:

"I remember from a very early age hearing many a roar from our family room as family and friends were crowded around the television set as Drew Bledsoe and then Tom Brady would throw that great pass and ...TOUCHDOWN...we would all share together in the pride of a team that many throughout New England consider family," says Amelia.

From tens of thousands of entries, Amelia 's flag design was chosen to represent the Patriots, New England, and the NFL at this year's 2012 Kickoff game between the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. She says being a Simmons student was key to her win:

"Even though [designing a flag] was something I had not tackled before, Simmons instilled in me that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to," says Amelia.

Congratulations, Amelia!

To learn more about about Amelia's major, check out the Department of Communications Media Arts Track website.