WSU Spokane Campus Bulletin
Issue 2006-12 (August 9, 2006)


IN THIS ISSUE

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Beginnings and Opportunities

A message from Chancellor Brian Pitcher

I am enthused to welcome you to the start of another academic year! Beginnings are times for optimism, and I see many reasons to be optimistic about WSU Spokane’s future.

For one, the opening of the Academic Center is a grand statement about the maturation of this campus and of the support in this  community for WSU Spokane. The center and expanded library are symbolic of our academic environment. I acknowledge and thank earlier WSU Spokane leadership for their vision and foresight.

Second, WSU colleges and departments, Spokane community leaders, and others are becoming quite comfortable with, and even embracing, the Pullman/Spokane co-location structure.

As President Rawlins recently noted, “WSU Spokane is increasingly recognized as a significant piece of the university whole.” We appreciate this complimentary statement about our faculty, programs, and community leadership.

Third, an aspirational and sustainable long-term vision for WSU Spokane academic priorities continues to crystallize. This vision focuses around interdisciplinary excellence in the health sciences, design, and education, with complementary targeted programs in business and entrepreneurship, social and policy sciences, science and technology, and the arts and culture. This vision adds significant value for WSU Pullman-based collaborations, responds to regional needs and opportunities, and complements local higher education institutions.

Fourth, WSU Spokane is becoming more fully integrated with a range of university-wide initiatives. A few examples:

  • Academic planning for the university is becoming less stove-piped, and more integrated across colleges and campuses.
  • The Office of Research and the WSU Research Foundation are giving significant focus to WSU Spokane opportunities and relationships.
  • We are working closely with University Relations and Marketing Communications activities in the university’s undergraduate and graduate recruitment, and key influencer initiatives. For example, WSU Spokane this year will be the first regional campus to host segments of the Innovator series; the university is partnering with our campus in sponsoring Spokane community-based programs and events; and Marketing Communications is assisting with the planning and development of our new suite of recruitment materials.
  • The Office of Equity and Diversity is heavily engaged in relationship development in our community with a commitment for WSU to be an effective partner in diversity. The reception they hosted here in April was very well received, and we appreciate their engagement.
  • The WSU Foundation, recognizing the strong future for WSU in Spokane, is committing new support for regional development.

The list could go on. I’ll just end by noting that the proposed WSU biennial state budget request (2007-2009) offers several opportunities for WSU Spokane programs to qualify for additional support in the health sciences, including medical education (WWAMI), high-demand programs, science and technology positions, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education, and enrollment growth.

I thank all of you excellent faculty, students, and staff for your dedicated service. Your commitment and entrepreneurialism are evident in the continued growth of this campus. Further WSU Spokane success will be based on our ability to recruit, develop, and retain world-class faculty, students, and key staff like you.

I look forward to honoring the recipients of this year’s Staff Excellence Awards at our campus kickoff next Thursday, August 17. I encourage you to attend to honor your colleagues and to tour the new Academic Center. Have a great year!

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AHEC Works to Fight Breast Cancer, Cardiovascular Disease in Lincoln County

The logo of the Eastern Washington Area Health Education Center (AHEC) includes the phrase “working with communities”, and indeed the talented team at WSU Spokane does just that. But with recent projects, particularly in Lincoln County, AHEC could be accurately described as “changing communities”—for the better.

Over the last three years, AHEC has had a major impact on the health and lifestyle of the citizens of Lincoln County, a rural area that is home to about 10,300 people. What began as assistance in updating health assessments became a request for a major grant, and now continues as a partnership focused on reducing dangerous diseases, namely breast cancer and cardiovascular disease.

It began in 2001, when the Lincoln County Health Coalition requested the help of the AHEC staff in updating their County Health Department Health Status Assessment. More than 10 years of data was analyzed, and some statistics caused great concern. The results of the assessment showed alarming rates of breast cancer, which seemed to be higher than in neighboring counties.

In particular breast cancer morbidity and mortality rates were the highest in the state,” said Charlotte Hardt, interim director of AHEC. “As we looked at this, it was also apparent that breast cancers were being diagnosed at a late stage, which made successful treatment much less likely.”

Discussions about how to change these statistics ensued and resulted in the joint application for a Rural Outreach Grant in 2002. AHEC and the health coalition were awarded $300,000 over three years to educate the public and medical community about the necessity of detecting breast cancers as early as possible.

“One of the most successful activities has been a community published calendar featuring local breast cancer survivors and their families—along with comments about how long it had been,” said Hardt. “The calendars have raised awareness of successful treatment when caught early and have lessened the feeling of isolation as those survivors have realized they are not alone.”

The treatment of breast cancer was also studied, comparing nationwide practices with those in Lincoln County, and the latest knowledge was brought to the attention of both the public and local physicians.

Three years after the project began, surgeon Deanna Huntwork, who does the majority of breast biopsies in the county, reports that there has not been a late-stage cancer case in the past year. Statistics from the Health Department also support her finding.

In 2004, grant funding was targeted toward reducing the incidence of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in Lincoln county, as well as in the United States as a whole. “Much of the project moved into prevention strategies. Weight loss and exercise programs were started in both Odessa and Davenport, as well as walking groups that have continued over the past two years,” said Hardt. As a result of these efforts, 77 people in Davenport lost a combined 629 pounds over a seven-month period.

The reduction in advanced breast cancer cases, change in public perception, and overall improvement of health programs are great achievements, and prove that AHEC can work with and change communities. According to Hardt, the relationship with rural areas will be ongoing, and more projects will likely occur in the future.
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Universities Present Plan to Expand Medical
and Dental Education in Spokane

Vice Provost for Research James Petersen and Chancellor Brian Pitcher with John Coombs, associate VP for Medical Affairs at UW's School of Medicine
 

The presidents of the University of Washington, Washington State University, and Eastern Washington University today announced their plan to expand Spokane’s medical and dental education programs to meet the need for physicians and dentists locally and in nearby rural towns.

If funded by the state legislature, this would be the first increase in several decades in the number of Washington state residents admitted to the UW medical school and dental school. A budget request for WWAMI and the Regional Initiatives in Dental Education (RIDE) expansion is a key element in the legislative priorities for 2007 adopted by WSU, UW, and the Spokane Regional Chamber of Commerce. Eastern’s board of trustees will consider their legislative agenda in their August meeting.

The plan includes the addition of up to 20 seats in medical education through the WWAMI program, and eight seats in dental education through the RIDE program. First-year students in both programs would take classes at the Riverpoint campus in Spokane.

Washington State University President V. Lane Rawlins noted that establishing a first-year medical/dental faculty in Spokane would have the added benefit of fostering biomedical research activities through collaborative projects with WSU Spokane life sciences faculty. “WSU is home to world-class faculty in the health and life sciences who will work closely with these new faculty members to expand our growing portfolio of competitively funded research while we also increase the number of medical students taught at WSU.” WSU’s Pullman campus was a founding partner in WWAMI.

WSU Announces Creation of New Division of Health Sciences

Washington State University President V. Lane Rawlins recently announced that the university is creating a new Division of Health Sciences. The change will realign various academic programs to encourage multidisciplinary work among faculty members working in health-related areas, especially those on the Pullman and Spokane campuses.

The new division builds on WSU’s record of accomplishment in health sciences. Faculty work in the life sciences made up 65 percent of WSU research expenditures in the 2005 fiscal year—totaling $120 million. Today, the leading agency funding WSU research is the National Institutes of Health.

“Health science research and education are becoming increasingly important, both to the Spokane area and to WSU. This realignment will help us build on our strengths and continue our momentum,” Rawlins said.

Rawlins appointed WSU Spokane Chancellor Brian Pitcher to the additional role of vice provost for health sciences for the university to oversee the effort statewide.

“Brian has an excellent overview of our biomedical research and education programs and is ideally suited to head this new division,” said WSU Provost and Executive Vice President Robert Bates. “As we move forward in health sciences research, this new division will encourage the collaboration between faculty members in different disciplines that is vital in these emerging areas.”

Bates said further details of the realignment will be announced as it progresses.

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WSU President V. Lane Rawlins to Retire Effective June 2007

Washington State University President V. Lane Rawlins, who has led his institution’s drive for educational and research excellence for more than six years, announced he will retire from the post effective June 2007.

The ninth president of WSU, Rawlins assumed the presidency in June 2000. He informed the university’s Board of Regents two weeks ago of his decision to retire.

“I am very grateful for the opportunity extended by the Board of Regents to have these years as president,” Rawlins said. “It has been my good fortune to work with splendid faculty, staff, students, alumni, and many supporters who are ensuring WSU’s stature as a top-tier research university and one of America’s leading land-grant universities.”

WSU Regents Board Chair Kenneth Alhadeff expressed regret over Rawlins’ decision.

“Lane has provided the highest caliber leadership during his presidency,” Alhadeff said. “We had hoped that he would agree to stay longer, but we understand his desire to turn to other interests at this stage of his life.”

Alhadeff said the regents are “very supportive of President Rawlins’s plan for the coming year and have the greatest confidence in his ability to continue to lead the university on the path he has established. He has set high goals for this year, and we look forward to continuing to work with him in achieving them.”

Rawlins listed three goals for the final year of his presidency, all related to the strategic plan he led the university community in developing soon after his arrival. Those goals are continued improvement in undergraduate and graduate education, further expansion of WSU’s world-class research and scholarship, and the enhancement of WSU’s role statewide.

He said he will be working closely with the University of Washington to achieve a strong budget package for the research universities during the upcoming legislative session, will focus on private fundraising efforts, and will continue to emphasize WSU’s statewide presence through continued personal interactions.

Rawlins has led a university growing in enrollment, research funding and facilities, and in national and international reputation.



WSU Pullman Offers Football Weekend Accommodations

If you are on your way to sing “fight, fight, fight for Washington State” at a Cougar football game this fall, you don’t want to worry about “fight, fight, fighting” for a place to stay once you get to Pullman. Look at these easy and comfortable accommodations and book before you go!

This year, the WSU Housing and Conference Services will have 155 double occupancy rooms available for home football game weekends and other special weekends, including Fall and Spring Commencement and Mom’s Weekend. Rooms are located in the Stephenson South residence hall and offer easy access to the WSU Campus, Martin Stadium, and downtown Pullman—all within walking distance. Complimentary breakfast is included.

  • Reservations can be made for a two-night minimum on Friday and Saturday nights, at a rate of $100 per room, including breakfast.
  • Reservations can be extended to include Thursday and/or Sunday night at an additional cost of $50 per room per night.
  • All reservations and payments for rooms will be processed online.

For more information, visit the Housing and Conference Services Web site or contact Debbie Ray at (509) 335-8156.Return to the Top of the Page

 

Who Does What in Information Technology Services

Information Technology Services (ITS) provides services and professional expertise in support of computing, networking and wireless technology, and voice and video communications at WSU Spokane. Many of these services are a crucial part of WSU Spokane’s research infrastructure. IT is responsible for all aspects of computing, data storage, retrieval, and communication on campus. This includes Academic Media Services (formerly WHETS), a distance learning delivery system designed to increase access to higher education for the citizens of Washington State. The system links university classrooms across the state through video and audio technology.

Here's an overview of who does what within Information Technology Services:

Larry Hoffman, Director of Information Technology Services
358-7969, hoffman@wsu.edu

Larry oversees the overall administration and operation of the Riverpoint Information Technology Services Department.

 

Bart Brazier, Computer Systems Administrator
358-7973, brazier@wsu.edu

Bart manages the campus Windows 2003 server farm and associated user accounts, the campus copy/print solution, the setup and support of more than 500 desktop computers, and the new wireless network.
 
Kenny Bisagno, Information Technology Specialist IV
358-7975, bisagno@wsu.edu

Kenny manages the campus network backbone, routers, and firewalls, as well as more than 1,200 data ports and 600 phones.

 
Sicco Rood, Web Master
358-7976, rood@wsu.edu

Sicco supports the campus Web and videostream servers and Listservs. In addition, he administers and supports the Enterprise Blackboard Learning Management System and acts as the myWSU portal coordinator for the Spokane campus.
 
Rit Kunthapisal, Database Administrator
368-6761, ritk@wsu.edu

Rit provides support, administration, maintenance, and development for the Enterprise Blackboard Learning Management System. He also provides consultation and installation support for database design, development, and administration.
 
Brady Ratsch, Media Technician Lead
358-7972, ratschb@wsu.edu

Brady supports academic classroom audio visual technologies and IP Videoconferencing, and handles enhanced classroom coordination with Student Affairs. He also specializes in PDA and mobile device support.
 
Bryan Valley, Media Technician Lead
368-6769, valley@wsu.edu

Like Brady, Bryan is responsible for supporting academic classroom audio visual technologies and IP Videoconferencing. He also handles the the support of videostream technology. Bryan specializes in classroom electronic and audio technology.
 
Lonny Waddle, Media Technician Lead
358-7971, waddlel@wsu.edu

In addition to supporting academic classroom audio visual technologies and IP Videoconferencing, Lonny is responsible for the campus technology inventory control. He specializes in Apple Computer technology and support and in multimedia video production.
 
Mike Bergam, Media Technician Supervisor
358-7898, bergam@wsu.edu

Mike manages the daily activities of the Academic Media Services (AMS) operation in a control room environment and supports general classroom audio visual technologies and IP Videoconferencing. He is the designated campus site coordinator for distance education.
 
Mike Eisensmith, Media Technician Lead
358-7898, eisensmith@wsu.edu

Mike supports the daily activities of the Academic Media Services (AMS) operation. He also supports general classroom audiovisual technologies and IP Videoconferencing.
 

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Connections: IT Update

We will run a periodic update on information technology services to keep you informed of new staff, services, and other developments. If you have an IT question we can address here, send it to Larry Hoffman, hoffman@wsu.edu.

Here's what's new in Information Technology Services at WSU Spokane:

The ITS Help Desk (coming soon) is responsible for streamlining the ITS support function through a comprehensive IT help desk/customer service application. The Help Desk coordinates trouble calls so customers get accurate, immediate information regarding technician availability. They may be reached at 358-7748

A full-time computer lab will be opening on August 15 in room 120 of the new Academic Center. The lab will provide dedicated access to more than 30 new Dell workstations.

The Riverpoint wireless network is finally here. It has been constructed with the user’s security in mind. Through network-ID authentication, digital certification, and tunneled encryption, the use of this network should prove smooth and safe. Access will continue to grow, but right now you can find it in our auditoriums, larger classrooms, the library, and the full-time computer lab.

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Community Connections

  • Kevin Danaher, co-founder of Global Exchange, will give a talk on sustainability and the green economy on Friday, August 11, at 5 p.m. at the Community Building on 35 W. Main Street, Spokane. This is an incredible opportunity to listen to a dynamic speaker who has contributed significantly toward the experience of justice on a global scale. Visit www.globalexchange.org to learn more about the work of Danaher and his organization.
  • Hosted by the Spokane Regional Task Force on Human Relations, the 9th Annual Community Congress on Human Relations event promises to continue a diverse dialogue, bringing understanding and ideas for solutions to the critical issues in our region. The day's program is set to enhance human relations through learning about personal leadership and intercultural competence. The Community Congress will be held on September 8, 2006, at the Spokane Community College Lair, 1810 North Greene Street, Spokane, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. For more information, visit their Web site.

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Personnel & Staffing Changes

Comings:

  • Juliet Knievel, Custodian 1, Facilities Operations, effective 8/7/06
  • Dawn Wright, Administrative Assistant A, Education, effective 8/8/06
  • Amy Bender, Polysomnographic Research Assistant (Research Aide I), Sleep & Performance Research Center, effective 8/16/06
  • Amber Smith, Biomathematical Modeling Research Assistant, Sleep & Performance Research Center, effective 9/23/06

Goings:

  • Tanya Conklin, Assistant Director of Development, Equity & Diversity, effective 7/28/06
  • Cathy Dorman, Library & Archives Paraprofessional 2, Riverpoint Campus Library, effective 7/31/06
  • Sara Hornor-Strange, Research Technologist I, Health Research & Education Center, effective 8/18/06
  • Aaron Theisen, Research Assistant, Health Research & Education Center, effective 8/31/06
  • Mike Hendryx, Associate Professor, WIMIRT, effective 8/31/06
  • Karen Hay, Program Assistant, Upward Bound, effective 9/19/06

Recruitments:

  • Library & Archives Paraprofessional 2, Riverpoint Campus Library, apply by 8/14/06 at www.hrs.wsu.edu Return to the Top of the Page


A Warm Welcome to...

Liz Blodgett, in the AHEC office. Liz will assist AHEC with healthcare recruitment, retention, and continuing education. She will also serve as staff for the Washington Rural Health Association. Liz has a BA in psychology from Reed College.

Some of you may have already met Brenda Dickson in Student Affairs. Brenda is currently attending Whitworth College, working on a degree in organizational management. Her main duties will be transcripts, ID photos, and tuition payments. Return to the Top of the Page
 

Way to Go!

"The Eastern Washington Area Health Education Center would like to thank Lonny Waddle for being “our photographer” as we updated AHEC staff pictures. We’d also like to thank Kenny Bisagno for being the “BBQ chef” for our Project HOPE student and parent gathering last week. These two fellows are just super and we consider them “Honorary AHECers!” (From Charlotte Hardt)

"WSU Extension (Vickie Parker-Clark, Kay Kelsey Gray, Linda Loos, Mary Enquist, and Brigitta Jozefowski) would like to thank both the Facilities and IT Departments for all their assistance in moving our offices from the South Campus Facilities Building to the Academic Building. Because of the tireless efforts of the individuals in these two departments, this was a very smooth and efficient move, and we were up and running in record time!"

"Kudos to all of the folks who have made the move to Academic Center such a smooth one. Vivian and Bob were so cheerful and calm and got us moved right on schedule! The IT crew had us up and running right away and have come back to tweak things with nary a grumble! I know they have miles to go before this is over, but they are off to a great start. Thanks from Student Affairs!"

"Thanks to the IT team who made our move to the Academic Center so painless. Bart, Kenny, Lonny and Brady not only had our critical needs taken care of within a couple hours of the move, but they had the majority of our departmental computers, phones, printers, and various other equipment, operational within a day. They worked as a flawless team with a great attitude handling all the little equipment issues that popped up. Kudos for all the pre-planning and detailed execution to make our lives easier! Thanks!" (from Winsor, De and Jilliene in HPA)

"Bart, Kenny, and not-so-new-guy Brady of the Information Technology Services team have been outstanding with their work on the departmental moves on campus this summer. The process is far from over and their focus, determination, and talent have never been more valuable. I am proud and privileged to work with such a great team, and this campus is lucky to have them." (from Lonny Waddle)

Here's where you make someone's day a little brighter by extending your thanks for a job well done. Send your “Way to Go!” comments to Laura Scholtens, scholtens@wsu.edu, and watch for your thanks to be published in an upcoming issue of the Campus Bulletin!

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The Bulletin is a monthly publication that is usually published on the second Wednesday of each month. The exact publication date may shift due to holidays. If you have an item that you'd like us to include, send it to us by Friday in the week before publication.
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The Bulletin covers news of interest to the faculty, staff, and friends of Washington State University Spokane, and associates on other WSU campuses and on the Riverpoint Campus.

Regular columns cover professional accomplishments, opportunities for involvement in the campus community and the Spokane community, notices of new developments on campus, upcoming events, personnel changes, and other news.

The Bulletin also serves as a source of information for external communications directed to alumni, future and current students, and friends of Washington State University Spokane. You'll read it here first!

Subscribers welcome! Send an e-mail to Judith Van Dongen, jcvd@wsu.edu, to request the WSU Spokane Campus Bulletin.

Editorial staff

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