Julie Baker, Administrative Assistant for Jazz Studies, Dies at 61</h1> <article> <h1>Julie Baker, Administrative Assistant for Jazz Studies, Dies at 61</h1> <p>eburnett — Thu, 14 May 2026 14:54:35 +0000</p> <span>Julie Baker, Administrative Assistant for Jazz Studies, Dies at 61</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-14T10:54:35-04:00" title="Thursday, May 14, 2026 - 10:54">Thu, 05/14/2026 - 10:54</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Julie Baker, the Administrative Assistant for ��سԹ�’s Division of Jazz Studies and a key member of the conservatory’s Facilities Operations team, died May 12. She was 61.</p><p>Born in ��سԹ� and a longtime resident of nearby Lorain, Baker arrived at the conservatory in summer 2011 and quickly became a fixture in the newly opened Bertram and Judith Kohl Building, the long-awaited home of ��سԹ�’s historic jazz program.</p><p>A vital member of the conservatory’s administrative team, Baker played a key role in day-to-day operations as well as conservatory tours to New York City in 2013, 2019, and 2023, and its 150th anniversary tour to Chicago in 2016. In addition to her twin roles with Jazz Studies and conservatory operations, Baker was a member of the leadership team for ��سԹ� College Office and Professional Employees (OCOPE), a key union on campus.</p><p>“Julie Baker was a deeply beloved colleague and friend,” says Dean of the Conservatory <a href="/william-quillen" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="ae2f8811-f23e-458f-87e3-6d455d557536" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="William Quillen">Bill Quillen</a>. “We will forever remember her smile, her laughter, and her unbounded kindness. Most of all, we will remember her deep love for and devotion to the students, whom she regarded as family.”</p><p>Baker delighted in the company of her own large family, and she loved motorcycle riding with her husband of 39 years, Allen. </p><p>“It is difficult to fully capture the impact Julie has had on our community,” says <a href="/greta-williams" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="7705647f-079f-4baa-a74f-2189e1cf17d3" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Greta Williams">Greta Williams</a>, the conservatory’s Manager of Academic Operations and Assistant to the Dean, and a longtime friend of Baker. “For so long, Julie has been at the very core of the conservatory and the jazz department—steady, dependable, and deeply committed to the success of our students and faculty.</p><p>“Julie approached every responsibility with care, precision, and a quiet strength that inspired those around her. She was someone I could always rely on, no matter the circumstance, and her judgment and insight reflected a rare intelligence and thoughtfulness. Julie brought that same determination to every challenge she faced. Her absence will be felt in many ways and across many layers of our community.”</p><p>Baker is survived by her husband; son Johnathan (Phinney); daughters Christina (Phinney), Maria, and Angelina; five grandchildren; and countless other loved ones. </p><p>Calling hours will be held at 11 a.m. this Saturday, May 16, at the Church on the North Coast (4125 North Leavitt Road, Lorain), followed at noon by a funeral service. <a href="https://www.reidyfuneral.com/obituary/juliann-baker">Learn more in this memorial.</a></p><hr><p><em>Support is available for all members of our campus community. Students are encouraged to contact </em><a href="/counseling"><em>Counseling and Psychological Services</em></a><em> or drop by during walk-in hours (9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. weekdays). Faculty and staff are invited to connect with ��سԹ�’s</em><a href="https://oberlincollege.sharepoint.com/sites/HR/SitePages/Emp.aspx"><em> Employee Assistance Program</em></a><em>. For additional information, </em><a href="/campus-resources/support"><em>visit the Campus Support Resources page on ��سԹ�.edu.</em></a></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Dedicated employee was deeply beloved by students and colleagues across campus.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-14T12:00:00Z">Thu, 05/14/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2597">Faculty and Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2412">Obituaries</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones '97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Concerto Competition Celebrates Student Achievement and Campus Spirit</h1> <p>srasmuss — Wed, 06 May 2026 17:37:38 +0000</p> <span>Concerto Competition Celebrates Student Achievement and Campus Spirit</span> <span><span>srasmuss</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-06T13:37:38-04:00" title="Wednesday, May 6, 2026 - 13:37">Wed, 05/06/2026 - 13:37</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p class="intro-text">One of many ��سԹ� traditions observed in late spring is the Senior Concerto Competition performances, which celebrate outstanding Conservatory students in their final years of study.<br><br>In fall 2025, four musicians advanced through a preliminary round and a final round, the latter adjudicated by an external panel of respected names in the industry. Their prize: the opportunity to perform a solo work with one of ��سԹ�’s orchestral ensembles, conducted by Raphael Jiménez.<br><br>With the ��سԹ� Chamber Orchestra, clarinetist Keyvar Smith-Herold performed Claude Debussy’s Première <em>Rhapsodie</em> on April 2, and soprano Saige Hoffman performed Joaquin Turina’s <em>Poema en forma de canciones</em> on May 1. With the ��سԹ� Orchestra, violist William Mathangani performed Béla Bartók’s <em>Viola Concerto</em> on April 9, and pianist William Chen will perform Sergei Rachmaninoff’s <em>Piano Concerto No. 3</em> on May 8.<br><br>“This is a moment in the school year that is very special to me,” Jiménez says. During the concerto performances, “ you can feel how everybody is doing the best they can to accompany their friends with so much love. It represents the ethos of our institution so well.”<br><br>Winning the Competition is something that most of the participants had imagined for years. “It was something I had dreamed about since I first arrived on campus,” says Keyvar Smith-Herold, who studies with Professor of Clarinet Richard Hawkins. <br><br>Smith-Herold enjoyed not only the performance itself, but also the experience of rehearsing the music together with Jiménez and the ensemble. “It’s an experience I’ll always value.”<br><br>Violist William Mathangani found that his intentional preparation for the Competition paid dividends. “As much as I wanted to win, I also just wanted to become a better musician, no matter the outcome,” he says. Working with Professor of Viola Peter Slowik, “I raised my standards for myself, which also led to a lot of success this year outside the competition.” <br><br>A few months ago, Mathangani decided not to stay for a fifth year and earn a double degree, meaning that he will graduate in the spring. So “the meaning behind the concerto changed for me,” he says. “It was more a farewell to ��سԹ�, and I wanted to make it something special.”<br><br>On May 1, Saige Hoffman performed Turina’s <em>Poema en forma de canciones</em>, a song cycle with lyrics entirely in Spanish. “As a Nicaraguan-American, it brings me immense pride to be able to represent my family’s language on a bigger stage,” she says. “It is a rare privilege to perform a piece you love on a stage like this, and I plan to hold on to every moment.”<br><br>A student of Associate Professor of Voice Katherine Jolly, Hoffman adds that “it wasn't just a personal win, but a moment to acknowledge the incredible support and guidance I've received from my teachers.”<br><br>On May 8, William Chen will perform Rachmaninoff’s Third Piano Concerto with the ��سԹ� Orchestra, an experience he says will be “unforgettable.” He began practicing the piece years ago, inspired by the recordings of pianists like Vladimir Horowitz and Martha Argerich, before really digging into it with his teacher, Stanislav Ioudenitch. <br><br>The concerto “always gazes towards a part of the past, present, or future that we look for in some intuitive sense,” Chen says. “As I practice, I seek to imagine these lingering and fleeting feelings radiating down the rows of seats, walls, and ceilings of Finney.”<br><br>Jiménez has conducted many Concerto Competition performances over the years, and he appreciates getting to share these moments with students he has watched grow. Many “will go on to have wonderful careers,” he says. So these concerts are “a great opportunity for the community to see these people as they are taking the first step into a bright future.”</p><p> </p><p>—<br><em>Stephanie Manning ’23 completed her bassoon performance degree at ��سԹ� while finding her way into journalism as a classical music critic. She returned to Cleveland after finishing a graduate diploma in journalism at Concordia University in Montreal. A regular contributor to ClevelandClassical.com, she has also published articles with Signal Cleveland, The Montreal Gazette, and Carnegie Hall.</em><br> </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Four outstanding Conservatory students earned the opportunity to perform a solo work with one of ��سԹ�’s orchestras, conducted by Raphael Jiménez.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-06T12:00:00Z">Wed, 05/06/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">by Stephanie Manning ’23</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2356">Conservatory</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=36206">Viola</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=37266">Clarinet</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=29541">Piano</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=35596">Voice</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-faculty field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stanislav-ioudenitch" hreflang="und">Stanislav Ioudenitch</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/conservatory/divisions/strings" hreflang="und">Strings</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/conservatory/divisions/vocal-studies" hreflang="und">Vocal Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/conservatory/divisions/winds-brass-and-percussion" hreflang="und">Winds, Brass, and Percussion</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">��سԹ� Conservatory 2025-26 Concerto Competition winners (clockwise from top left): Keyvar Smith-Herold, clarinet, Saige Hoffman, voice, William Mathangani, violin, and William Chen, piano.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Saige Hoffman, Tanya Rosen-Jones, KKphotography.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Michel Debost, Legendary Flute Professor and Performer, Dies at 92</h1> <p>eburnett — Wed, 06 May 2026 13:59:02 +0000</p> <span>Michel Debost, Legendary Flute Professor and Performer, Dies at 92</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-06T09:59:02-04:00" title="Wednesday, May 6, 2026 - 09:59">Wed, 05/06/2026 - 09:59</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Michel Debost, an internationally celebrated flutist who taught at ��سԹ� from 1989 until his retirement in 2011, died May 2 in his native France. He was 92.</p><p>Debost leaves behind a legacy as an exemplary performer, teacher, and colleague. As a young musician, he studied at the Paris Conservatory, where he won first prize in flute, an honor followed by top honors in the international competitions of Prague, Munich, Moscow, Geneva, and Turin.</p><p>He was the longtime principal flutist of the Orchestre de Paris from its founding in 1967 until 1989, a legendary soloist, and a revered professor at the Paris Conservatory, where he succeeded fellow luminary Jean-Pierre Rampal. He recorded a wealth of flute repertoire for EMI and a variety of other labels.</p><p>"As a musician, he was, of course, extraordinary: a truly commanding flute player with a huge, resonant sound, exceptional control of the air, and a deep musical intelligence," says Professor of Clarinet <a href="/richard-hawkins" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="c3e1fd70-d852-412f-b8b9-41f42d375b11" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Richard Hawkins">Richard Hawkins</a>, a longtime colleague and friend of Debost.</p><p>At ��سԹ�, Debost developed Prima Vista, a woodwind quintet reading course that remains a central part of the first-year curriculum.</p><p>"Students consistently point to it as a transformative experience, and Michel had a remarkable gift for teaching the art of sight-reading with both rigor and encouragement," says Hawkins.</p><p>Among the generations of ��سԹ� flute students taught by Debost are Grammy Award-winners Claire Chase ’01, who went on to co-found the International Contemporary Ensemble, and Molly Barth ’97 of Eighth Blackbird.</p><p>“He taught with tremendous passion throughout his career, and his devoted students demonstrate success across a remarkably wide range of careers and playing styles,” says Professor of Flute <a href="/alexa-still" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="3e1a79cf-02ac-4e57-9622-e4380853f2f0" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Alexa Still">Alexa Still</a>, who succeeded Debost on the ��سԹ� faculty.</p><p>Hawkins reflected on Debost’s impact with colleagues on the morning after his passing. "Many of us found ourselves thinking about Michel, his larger-than-life personality, and his extraordinary capacity to work tirelessly with so many students," he says. "He was a wonderful colleague—gracious, elegant, and always impeccably dressed in suits and ties—and he was especially kind to me when I first arrived at ��سԹ�."</p><p>Debost is survived by his wife, renowned flutist and professor Kathleen Chastain, who also taught at ��سԹ� from 1993 until her retirement in 2013.</p><p>A memorial in honor of Debost will be planned at ��سԹ�, with details to follow in Campus Digest.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">French-born master launched a wealth of standout ��سԹ� musicians as a 22-year member of the faculty.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-06T12:00:00Z">Wed, 05/06/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2412">Obituaries</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2356">Conservatory</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=35911">Flute</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-faculty field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/richard-hawkins" hreflang="und">Richard Hawkins</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/alexa-still" hreflang="und">Alexa Still</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/conservatory/divisions/winds-brass-and-percussion" hreflang="und">Winds, Brass, and Percussion</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Scott Jasko Earns YB Award for Extraordinary Service</h1> <p>eburnett — Tue, 05 May 2026 13:39:43 +0000</p> <span>Scott Jasko Earns YB Award for Extraordinary Service</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-05T09:39:43-04:00" title="Tuesday, May 5, 2026 - 09:39">Tue, 05/05/2026 - 09:39</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Scott Jasko, a member of ��سԹ�’s Transportation Logistics team, is the recipient of the 2026 YB Staff Award for Extraordinary Service. The award was presented by ��سԹ� President Carmen Twillie Ambar at an employee appreciation celebration held May 5 at the Heisman Field House.</p><p>An ��سԹ� employee since 2002, Jasko has served in numerous roles: initially in food service maintenance and later as a custodian. For years, he was a key member of the third-shift custodial team at what was then the brand-new Science Center. Their group became affectionately known as the “Night Owls.”</p><p>Jasko was promoted to his current position in February 2012 and is a member of UAW Local 2192. He plays a vital role in bringing campus events to life and facilitates smooth daily operations with setups, moves, and logistics coordination.</p><p>Colleagues who nominated Jasko were effusive in their praise of his kindness, humor, and dedication, as well as his exemplary mentorship.</p><p>“Scott is a great teacher,” One nominator shared. “He trains by showing you how to do things safely and efficiently at all times. His dedication to the campus—through his work in the transportation department and with anyone who needs assistance—is unparalleled.”</p><p>Other praise included:</p><ul><li data-list-item-id="e40d63d6d5f8cb2f28230280083c89ef5">“Scott is an amazing human being and a friend to all. He’s funny, caring, determined, and a selfless, dedicated employee. He is the epitome of this award.”</li><li data-list-item-id="e435bd3c36860238af91c6e0585497547">“Scott continuously goes above and beyond for students, staff, and other team members in an ongoing effort to do his job to the best of his abilities. He is always courteous and willing to help everyone in need.”</li><li data-list-item-id="e27f9ec116b5299d6b6c5748c7112e160">“He goes out of his way to do his best every day and thoroughly enjoys engaging with our students!”</li><li data-list-item-id="e4e319782210d97cb932095d7a0e66a80">“Scott gives his time, at any time, to help people. He is always present, 24/7, and he gives 110 percent every shift.” </li><li data-list-item-id="e5840055968b6123884fd30e69ec60ba0">"There’s no spreadsheet to calculate the hours, the effort, or the accomplishments that Scott has given to his job.”</li></ul><hr><p>The YB Staff Award was established to honor the extraordinary service of the late Yeworkwha Belachew—“YB,” as she was affectionately known—who served ��سԹ� in numerous roles for more than 35 years, most notably as ombudsperson and founder of the ��سԹ� College Dialogue Center.</p><p>First presented—to Belachew—in 2016, the YB Award was established to recognize a non-faculty employee of the college or conservatory who demonstrates daily commitment and performance in advancing ��سԹ�’s strategic goals through exemplary service.</p><p>For more information about the YB Award and a complete list of past honorees, please visit the Department of Human Resources’<a href="/node/72566"> Awards and Recognition</a> page.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Longtime employee celebrated for tireless dedication, good nature, and mentorship.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-05T12:00:00Z">Tue, 05/05/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2597">Faculty and Staff</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Katie Priscott to Deliver 2026 Student Commencement Address</h1> <p>eburnett — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:22:18 +0000</p> <span>Katie Priscott to Deliver 2026 Student Commencement Address</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-04-29T10:22:18-04:00" title="Wednesday, April 29, 2026 - 10:22">Wed, 04/29/2026 - 10:22</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Katie Priscott will represent the Class of 2026 as the student Commencement speaker at ��سԹ�'s May 25 ceremony on Tappan Square. </p><p>A native of Stamford, Connecticut, Katie will graduate with a bachelor of arts in <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/creative-writing" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="014a68a0-b89e-4246-bb1f-649f1b194b96" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Creative Writing">creative writing</a>, along with a minor in <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/dance" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="83364c35-4eff-44e3-888c-cff9cb4cba57" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Dance">dance</a> and a concentration in <a href="/musical-pathways/arts-administration-and-leadership-integrative-concentration" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="62e8de40-b1a4-465e-981f-f54816783c35" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Arts Administration and Leadership Integrative Concentration">arts administration and leadership</a>.</p><p>On campus, Katie has served as a Peer Advising Leader (PAL), ��سԹ� Central Ticket Service student manager, dance department teaching assistant, and ViBe Dance Company tap director and executive board member. She has written for <em>Wilder Voice</em> literary magazine, served as an assistant choreographer for <em>Haymarket: A New Folk Musical</em>, and was an assistant student publicity manager for ��سԹ� Theater and Dance. She was a finalist at the 50th Annual Concord Theatricals Off-Off Broadway Short Play Festival, and her short story "Ghost Stories and Walls" was published as part of the Long Story Short Award in 2024.</p><p>"From revising my capstone in the stacks of Mudd, to choreographing in the studios of Warner Center, to watching the Royal Shakespeare Company during my Winter Term in London, I am immensely grateful for my time at ��سԹ�,” she says. “I feel so lucky to be surrounded by professors who have challenged me to reach my potential and peers who have cheered me on every step of the way. I would not be the artist, academic, or human being that I am without their support."</p><p>Following graduation, Katie will begin work at the Virginia Theatre Festival at the University of Virginia. She aims to continue her work in arts administration while further pursuing her career as a writer.</p><p>��سԹ�'s Commencement ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 25. For live stream and more information, <a href="/events/oberlin-college-commencement">visit the Commencement page on the campus events calendar.</a></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Creative Writing major explored artistic opportunities throughout her time on campus.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-04-29T12:00:00Z">Wed, 04/29/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3152">Commencement</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Dan Wall, Longtime Professor of Jazz Piano, Dies at 72</h1> <p>eburnett — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:01:02 +0000</p> <span>Dan Wall, Longtime Professor of Jazz Piano, Dies at 72</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-04-14T13:01:02-04:00" title="Tuesday, April 14, 2026 - 13:01">Tue, 04/14/2026 - 13:01</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p id="docs-internal-guid-4acdc4e7-7fff-9c4e-621d-a476fd9c31ff">Dan Wall, an Associate Professor of Jazz Piano who taught at ��سԹ� from 2001 until his retirement in 2025, has died. He was 72.</p><p>"Dan Wall was a deeply beloved teacher, colleague, and friend," says Dean of the Conservatory <a href="/william-quillen" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="ae2f8811-f23e-458f-87e3-6d455d557536" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="William Quillen">Bill Quillen</a>. "He transformed countless lives through his quiet mentorship and very deep goodness. He will be deeply, deeply missed."</p><p>Wall proved to be a prodigious keyboard talent from a young age: While in high school, he led a jazz combo at the Carousel club in his hometown of Atlanta. At 17, he won a Hall of Fame Scholarship from <em>DownBeat</em> magazine and went on to study at the Berklee College of Music. For many years, he performed in venues throughout the world and collaborated with a long list of jazz greats including Eddie Gomez, Joe Lovano, Kenny Wheeler, and Billy Drummond. Beginning in 1991, Wall played Hammond organ for the John Abercrombie Trio, which earned critical acclaim for its first two recordings, <em>While We're Young</em> and <em>Speak of the Devil</em>. </p><p>He won <em>DownBeat</em>’s International Critics’ Poll an incredible 16 times. </p><p>At ��سԹ�, Wall was regarded as an extraordinary teacher who touched the lives of students and colleagues alike. He was a fixture at the keyboard for memorable faculty concerts in Finney Chapel and at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City, and a friendly presence around his Kohl Building base of operations. He earned ��سԹ�’s Excellence in Teaching Award for 2014-15.</p><p>"By every metric, Dan Wall was exceptional," says Professor of Jazz Guitar <a href="/bobby-ferrazza" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="e8d3cfb3-0b1a-4500-a3b1-1f464d221f60" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Bobby Ferrazza">Bobby Ferrazza</a>, a close friend of Wall. "He was a humble, generous, warm person. He was a musician so special that he inspired almost everyone who heard him play. </p><p>"All of these attributes changed lives for the better for so many of us who had the privilege to know him—students and colleagues alike. We called each other “brother,” and I feel a great loss. All we can do is try to carry forward all the beautiful life and music lessons that he taught all of us."</p><p>A memorial honoring Wall will be planned for a later date; details will follow in the Campus Digest.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Gifted keyboardist and teacher influenced the lives and careers of countless ��سԹ� students.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-04-14T12:00:00Z">Tue, 04/14/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Office of Communications</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Dan Wall, in his Kohl Building studio in 2016.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Jennifer Manna</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Meet & Greet: Jacob Dunwiddie</h1> <p>eburnett — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:26:01 +0000</p> <span>Meet & Greet: Jacob Dunwiddie</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-03-18T11:26:01-04:00" title="Wednesday, March 18, 2026 - 11:26">Wed, 03/18/2026 - 11:26</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/jacob-dunwiddie" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="5af6a34b-bba0-4b02-a25e-7724e70f8032" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Jacob Dunwiddie">Jacob Dunwiddie</a> is the Senior Director of Student Success in the <a href="/center-student-success" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="e8cf52e5-f480-4c74-9e5e-cee937d75b62" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Center for Student Success">Center for Student Success</a>, located in Stevenson Hall. He also chairs ��سԹ�’s LEAD program: Learning Enhancement Across the Disciplines, through which students build vital academic and life skills to support their long-term success. We caught up with Jacob to learn more about his work.</p><p><strong>Please describe your primary responsibilities or what a typical day might look like.</strong></p><p>I coach all Obies to help them reach their full potential! That looks like serving as chair for LEAD, meeting one on one with students for success coaching, and supporting events and services targeted toward sophomore students. In a typical day, I meet with students and colleagues across campus, teach LEAD classes, and collaborate with others to find ways to best support all students during their time at ��سԹ� and beyond.</p><p><strong>What's something people might be surprised to learn about your work or your office?</strong></p><p>I think people would be surprised to learn that we have full-time CSS staff dedicated to working one on one with students to offer personalized success coaching—similar to life coaching but with a special focus on the college experience. Our team and I are constantly thinking about how we can improve our coaching, increase access to coaching or our materials, and encourage students to use success coaching throughout their time at ��سԹ�.</p><p><strong>If your office had a theme song, what would it be?</strong></p><p>“Happy” by Pharrell Williams</p><p><strong>What makes ��سԹ� special to you?</strong></p><p>The students, full stop. I am constantly impressed by every interaction I have with an ��سԹ� student because of their deep level of care and engagement toward their education, their community, and the world.</p><p><strong>What's your favorite ��سԹ� space and why?</strong></p><p>Peters Hall is my favorite building overall, but there’s a particular classroom on the second floor—right where the spire begins and rises open all the way to the top—that stands out to me. It was the first classroom I taught in at ��سԹ�, and to this day, I still hope my courses are assigned to that room.</p><p><strong>What's something you've learned that you wish all students could know?</strong></p><p>Faculty and staff are here to support you. I often hear students say they’re navigating challenges on their own, without realizing how much help is available to them. Please know that we are here for you. If you’re trying to figure something out and aren’t sure where to start, ask for help. Stop by CSS—even if we don’t have the exact answer, we’ll connect you with the right person and help you understand what to expect in the next steps or meetings.</p><p><strong>What do you enjoy doing away from work?</strong></p><p>I love trying new hobbies. Right now, I enjoy gardening, baking sourdough, and crocheting. Most of my job is meeting with people—either students or campus members—which I love, so I try more physical or tactile experiences outside of work to create some balance in my day.</p><p><strong>Please share a fun fact about you!</strong></p><p>During elementary, middle, and high school, I was an avid choir student who appeared in frequent show choirs, chambers, and musical theater performances!</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">What's the best thing about working in the Center for Student Success? The student successes, of course!</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-03-18T12:00:00Z">Wed, 03/18/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4377">Staff Profiles</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Through teaching LEAD courses, Jacob Dunwiddie has come to love a very particular corner of campus. Read on to find out where it is.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Meet & Greet: Maria O’Connor</h1> <p>eburnett — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:24:01 +0000</p> <span>Meet & Greet: Maria O’Connor</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-03-16T10:24:01-04:00" title="Monday, March 16, 2026 - 10:24">Mon, 03/16/2026 - 10:24</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/maria-oconnor" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="ba46fb62-39f5-445d-b22b-c9e17197152c" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Maria O’Connor">Maria O’Connor</a> is ��سԹ�’s Associate Vice President and Chief Data Analytics Officer in the <a href="/institutional-effectiveness" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="2e46a41a-c287-4c57-ac6d-4e86dfd30c21" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Institutional Effectiveness & Planning">Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning</a>. She arrived at ��سԹ� in summer 2025 after previously working at John Carroll University, Hiram College, and Emerson College. Maria’s office—in the Cox Administration Building—coordinates campus surveys and a whole lot more. We asked her to fill us in.</p><p><strong>Tell us about your role and the work of IEP.</strong></p><p>I oversee a team that collects, analyzes, and reports institutional data to inform decision-making, planning, and assessment efforts across the college. Our work supports strategic initiatives and promotes the effective use of data at the institution.</p><p><strong>What do you like most about your role here?</strong></p><p>One of my favorite aspects of working at ��سԹ� is the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues across the college who are doing such interesting and meaningful work. I also enjoy the variety of projects we take on—it keeps the work engaging and fresh.</p><p><strong>What's something people might be surprised to learn about your work or your office?</strong></p><p>We tend to operate behind the scenes, so not everyone is aware of our office. However, we collaborate with nearly every department on campus, supporting initiatives that span the entire institution. In the time since I arrived, our team has worked with the President’s Office, General Counsel, Financial Aid, the Registrar’s Office, Career Exploration and Development, and Athletics, to name just a few.</p><p><strong>What's your favorite ��سԹ� space and why?</strong></p><p>Tappan Square is my favorite space on campus. I love being able to step outside my office and immediately be in the middle of a green space. It’s a great place to reset during the day.</p><p><strong>Please share a fun fact about you or something you're good at.</strong></p><p>In 2022, I successfully defended my dissertation and later that same day went to the hospital to deliver my first daughter!</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">��سԹ�'s head of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning supports strategic, informed campus decision-making.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-03-16T12:00:00Z">Mon, 03/16/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4377">Staff Profiles</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Though some may be unfamiliar with the work of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning, Maria O'Connor's office routinely collaborates with other offices all over campus.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Meet & Greet: Kayla Hebebrand</h1> <p>eburnett — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:48:20 +0000</p> <span>Meet & Greet: Kayla Hebebrand</span> <span><span>eburnett</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-02-27T09:48:20-05:00" title="Friday, February 27, 2026 - 09:48">Fri, 02/27/2026 - 09:48</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><div role="listitem"><div jsname="ibnC6b" jscontroller="rDGJeb" jsaction="sPvj8e:e4JwSe,Dlbleb;O22p3e:e4JwSe,F0zejc;" data-item-id="1955442063"><div><div><div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.1955442063">Student Success Coach <a href="/kayla-hebebrand" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="9463fcb5-cbdb-4afa-b9bb-1eb2d2c24fac" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Kayla Hebebrand"><strong>Kayla Hebebrand</strong></a> joined ��سԹ� in January 2025, after previously serving as a licensed professional counselor in a Northeast Ohio private practice. As part of the <a href="/dean-of-students/center-student-success" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="53fa58fe-0765-49f3-bf3a-cb69a73578da" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Center for Student Success">Center for Student Success</a>—which you can find in Stevenson Hall—she revels in the wide-ranging ways she in her colleagues are able to support the journey of <em>very busy</em> Obies. We caught up with Kayla to learn more about her work and her perspective.</div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.1955442063"> </div></div></div></div></div></div><div role="listitem"><div jsname="ibnC6b" jscontroller="rDGJeb" jsaction="sPvj8e:e4JwSe,Dlbleb;O22p3e:e4JwSe,F0zejc;" data-item-id="24281846"><div><div><div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.24281846"><strong>Tell us about your primary responsibilities with CSS.</strong></div></div></div></div><div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="Please describe your primary responsibilities or what a typical day might look like." aria-disabled="true" role="textbox">Most of my day consists of meeting with students one on one to discuss how they want to manage their time. Many of them are involved in multiple student organizations, athletics, have loaded course schedules, and have jobs on campus. </div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="Please describe your primary responsibilities or what a typical day might look like." aria-disabled="true" role="textbox"> </div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="Please describe your primary responsibilities or what a typical day might look like." aria-disabled="true" role="textbox">We discuss practical ways of balancing their priorities while also practicing self-care. Success coaching can also include <a href="/center-student-success/learning-and-development/cliftonstrengths">Clifton Strengths assessment</a> follow-ups for students to process their results and learn more about how they can apply their strengths in practical ways. </div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="Please describe your primary responsibilities or what a typical day might look like." aria-disabled="true" role="textbox"> </div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="Please describe your primary responsibilities or what a typical day might look like." aria-disabled="true" role="textbox">Our office helps Obies understand themselves, create connections, and build practical skills. Part of creating connections is identifying what types of social circles they want to invest their time in and what they value in connections. In order to understand ourselves, we need to identify what we value and how those values show up in our actions as we navigate our communities and individual journeys.</div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="Please describe your primary responsibilities or what a typical day might look like." aria-disabled="true" role="textbox"> </div></div></div></div><div role="listitem"><div jsname="ibnC6b" jscontroller="rDGJeb" jsaction="sPvj8e:e4JwSe,Dlbleb;O22p3e:e4JwSe,F0zejc;" data-item-id="911487234"><div><div><div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.911487234"><strong>What's something people might be surprised to learn about the Center for Student Success?</strong></div></div></div></div><div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="What's something people might be surprised to learn about your work or your office?" aria-disabled="true" role="textbox">Typically, what students first come to CSS for isn't the core issue. We go deeper as we build rapport. Also, on a fun side note: If a student sees a lot of yellow and sunflowers—<em>bingo! </em>They made it to my office!</div></div></div></div><div role="listitem"><div jsname="ibnC6b" jscontroller="rDGJeb" jsaction="sPvj8e:e4JwSe,Dlbleb;O22p3e:e4JwSe,F0zejc;" data-item-id="1105411646"><div><div><div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.1105411646"> </div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.1105411646"><strong>If your office had a theme song, what would it be?</strong></div></div></div></div><div><div aria-describedby="c256" tabindex="0" aria-label="If your office had a theme song, what would it be?" aria-disabled="true" role="textbox">"Golden" by Jill Scott.</div></div></div></div><div role="listitem"><div jsname="ibnC6b" jscontroller="rDGJeb" jsaction="sPvj8e:e4JwSe,Dlbleb;O22p3e:e4JwSe,F0zejc;" data-item-id="25574467"><div><div><div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.25574467"> </div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.25574467"><strong>What makes ��سԹ� special to you?</strong></div></div></div></div><div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="What makes ��سԹ� special to you?" aria-disabled="true" role="textbox">��سԹ� is so special to me because of all the trail blazers that came before me. All of the rich history that is part of ��سԹ� makes me grateful and honored to be part of this compassionate community.</div></div></div></div><div role="listitem"><div jsname="ibnC6b" jscontroller="rDGJeb" jsaction="sPvj8e:e4JwSe,Dlbleb;O22p3e:e4JwSe,F0zejc;" data-item-id="2047492441"><div><div><div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.2047492441"> </div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.2047492441"><strong>What's your favorite ��سԹ� space and why?</strong></div></div></div></div><div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="What's your favorite ��سԹ� space and why?" aria-disabled="true" role="textbox">The Science Center, because it is so bright and full of natural light!</div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="What's your favorite ��سԹ� space and why?" aria-disabled="true" role="textbox"> </div></div></div></div><div role="listitem"><div jsname="ibnC6b" jscontroller="rDGJeb" jsaction="sPvj8e:e4JwSe,Dlbleb;O22p3e:e4JwSe,F0zejc;" data-item-id="1947883555"><div><div><div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.1947883555"><strong>What's something you've learned that you wish all students could know?</strong></div></div></div></div><div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="What's something you've learned that you wish all students could know?" aria-disabled="true" role="textbox">You don't have to have it all figured out! Leave room in the margins and some amazing surprises will come your way.</div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="What's something you've learned that you wish all students could know?" aria-disabled="true" role="textbox"> </div></div></div></div><div role="listitem"><div jsname="ibnC6b" jscontroller="rDGJeb" jsaction="sPvj8e:e4JwSe,Dlbleb;O22p3e:e4JwSe,F0zejc;" data-item-id="293091796"><div><div><div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.293091796"><strong>What do you enjoy doing away from work?</strong></div></div></div></div><div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="What do you enjoy doing away from work?" aria-disabled="true" role="textbox">I love spending time with my wild orange cat Pua, volunteering at my church, writing poetry, and staying active!</div></div></div></div><div role="listitem"><div jsname="ibnC6b" jscontroller="rDGJeb" jsaction="sPvj8e:e4JwSe,Dlbleb;O22p3e:e4JwSe,F0zejc;" data-item-id="488339019"><div><div><div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.488339019"> </div><div role="heading" aria-describedby="i.desc.488339019"><strong>Please share a fun fact about you or something you're good at!</strong></div></div></div></div><div><div tabindex="0" aria-label="Please share a fun fact about you or something you're good at!" aria-disabled="true" role="textbox">I love traveling, especially internationally. This summer I will be traveling to the Dominican Republic.</div></div></div></div></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Get to know the Success Coach from ��سԹ�'s Center for Student Success.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-02-27T12:00:00Z">Fri, 02/27/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4377">Staff Profiles</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">"Our office helps Obies understand themselves, create connections, and build practical skills," says Success Coach Kayla Hebebrand. She encourages all students to leave room in their packed schedules for "amazing surprises."</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Memorial Minute: Samuel Goldberg, 1925-2023</h1> <p>azaleski — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 21:34:11 +0000</p> <span>Memorial Minute: Samuel Goldberg, 1925-2023</span> <span><span>azaleski</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-02-25T16:34:11-05:00" title="Wednesday, February 25, 2026 - 16:34">Wed, 02/25/2026 - 16:34</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Emeritus Professor of Mathematics Samuel Goldberg died July 21, 2023, at the age of 98.</p><p>Born in March 1925, he lived at home in the Bronx until graduating from City College in 1944. After being drafted into the U.S. Army, he became a T/4, a punch card operator in the Army's Special Engineering Detachment at Los Alamos. The future Nobel Prize winner Richard Feynman was also in this unit and played poker with Sam.</p><p>Sam later earned a doctorate at Cornell University. After teaching three years at Lehigh, he came to ��سԹ� in 1953, shortly after marrying Marcia Chinitz. Marcia earned a master's in art history at ��سԹ�, and researched and wrote papers in the field. Their son, David, was born in 1955.</p><p>Sam taught at ��سԹ� from 1953 until 1985, becoming a full professor in 1960. He spent time away from ��سԹ� at MIT, Harvard, the University of Michigan, the London School of Economics, the University of Western Australia, and Mombasa, Kenya.</p><p>His pioneering textbook, Introduction to Difference Equations with Illustrative Examples from Economics, Psychology, and Sociology, appeared in 1960. Translated into Spanish, German, and Japanese, it remains in print. It was pioneering in two ways. Difference equations are still the mathematics underlying today’s ubiquitous computer modeling. Sam also controversially applied these equations to the social sciences. Integrating technology and quantitative ideas into the liberal arts curriculum became a major theme of Sam's research and teaching. He published three additional books and numerous papers.</p><p>Sam was also active in civic affairs. He helped establish the ��سԹ� Improvement and Development Corporation and the ��سԹ� Cable Co-op and served on the board of the Allen Memorial Hospital. A long-time supporter of the ACLU, he chaired the ��سԹ� chapter in 1962. He also contributed extensively to various professional organizations. </p><p>When Sam spoke, people listened. He dominated the many faculty committees on which he served. He led the group that in 1964 persuaded the college to purchase its first computer. The late Professor of Mathematics Eddie Wong stated, "If you had a question, you went to see Sam. When you came out of his office, you knew, without his telling you, what you should do."</p><p>As a teacher, Sam was attentive to individual students and an effective mentor, inspiring many students to pursue graduate studies. Additionally, he walked Imelda Yeung Powers ’81 down the aisle at her wedding when her family was unable to travel to the U.S. for the ceremony. </p><p>Above all, Sam was a commanding presence in the classroom. His lectures were elegant, carefully organized, and logically presented. An outstanding feature was his board work: Sam started each class at the top left corner, with the goal of ending at the lower right corner exactly 50 minutes later. He often succeeded.</p><p>Still, Sam could be intimidating. Jerry Butters ’68, retired from the Federal Trade Commission, writes, "Mr. Goldberg started his Probability course at 8 a.m. sharp, even on Saturday morning. Before class, he had filled up much of the board with equations in his impeccable handwriting. I usually got up at 7:45 and was often late. Trying to sneak in once, Mr. Goldberg spotted me, pointed to the board, and cried out, ‘Butters! Why is this true?’ I answered as best I could but was too winded to be convincing.” </p><p>Robert Bosch ’85, now the James F. Clark Professor of Mathematics at ��سԹ�, remembers that Sam on occasion might lock the classroom door, forcing late-comers to knock. Additionally, Robert remembers that Sam had a deep hatred of paper clips, considering them the very worst of human inventions. Points might be deducted for work handed in clipped rather than stapled.</p><p>Glen Satten ’79, a statistician at Emory University School of Medicine who retired from the CDC, writes that Sam “was furious with me for taking calculus-free statistics as a senior. But his class did me no harm! He was an excellent teacher. I wish I'd told him I became a statistician. I have his book on difference equations here somewhere."</p><p>In 1985, Sam retired from ��سԹ� to work for the Sloan Foundation in New York, where he assisted in distributing millions of dollars to liberal arts colleges. He returned to ��سԹ� in 1990 while remaining affiliated with the organization. In 2004, he and Marcia moved into Kendal at ��سԹ�. </p><p>Samuel Goldberg was an academic pioneer, an outstanding writer and teacher, a distinguished citizen, a remarkable individual, and a master expositor of mathematics.</p><p><em>Memorial Minute written and read at a general faculty meeting by Emeritus Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science Michael Henle. </em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">The Emeritus Professor of Mathematics died July 21, 2023, at the age of 98.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-02-25T12:00:00Z">Wed, 02/25/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Michael Henle</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Courtesy of ��سԹ� College Archives</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> </main></body></html>