By Susan Scott

Distinguished Research Professor Michael Herren
elected a Fellow in Royal Society of Canada

York University Distinguished Research Professor Michael Herren has another honour to celebrate as he joins the likes of Sir Sandford Fleming and Sir William Osler as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (RSC).

Fellowship in the RSC is considered Canada's senior academic accolade to which scholars and scientists aspire. "These distinguished individuals join the extraordinary resource of talent and experience that constitutes the society," said Jean-Pierre Wallot, President of the RSC. The main criteria to be a Fellow "...shall be persons who have achieved distinction by publishing learned works for original research in the arts and sciences." Herren becomes the 63rd York faculty member to have been accorded this honour.

"I'm extremely proud to have been elected. It's gratifying to be recognized for your work in your own country," said Herren, who has taught at York full time since 1967 and over that time has amassed a number of achievements. Herren will be inducted during a ceremony in November in Ottawa as part of the RSC's annual meeting.

Last year, he received a fellowship from the New York based John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation. Guggenheim fellowship grants are awarded to scholars focused on the arts, sciences, and fine arts. Although based in the US, the competition is open as well to Canadians.

In 1995, Herren received the prestigious Killam fellowship to focus on a study of Greco-Roman mythology in the Middle Ages. The Killam Fellowship supports research projects by Canadian scholars, primarily at universities, in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, and engineering. It is operated by the Canada Council for the Arts through a bequest from the late Dororthy J. Killam.

Currently, Herren teaches at Atkinson College. From 1982-85 he was Chair of the Department of Humanities at Atkinson. He is the founder and editor of The Journal of Medieval Latin, a respected international journal based at York. The first and only journal of its kind in English has attracted submissions from the best scholars in the world. He speaks several languages including German, French and Italian. In remarks made by colleagues when he was named Distinguished Research Professor in 1998, Herren was cited for his work in philology, a branch of language study that deals with the structure, historical development and relationships of a language.

Herren is internationally recognized in classical studies, as a linguist and a respected editor of texts. Not only is he an authority in the field of early Hiberno-Latin literature, he is one of the world's best-known Medieval Latinists.

By Cathy Carlyle

Alan Smith, manager of York Telecommunications, wishing Ulla Campbell a fond farewell. "Welcome to York University!" Ever wondered if the Voice of York is real when you dial into the University? And, if real, what the face behind the Voice of York looks like? Well, she's real...and who could resist taking a peek at her? e all have heard Ulla Campbell's bright and welcoming voice when we've called the University or if we've phoned in to our remote voicemail. We've heard it, too, if we've been kept on hold when calling the switchboard and during severe weather conditions if we've called the University emergency line. In fact, her voice has been York's since 1986 when, according to York Telecommunications Manager Alan Smith, she was chosen "because she had the best voice in the department. It was very positive and very bubbly."

Now, Campbell is leaving as Assistant Manager of Telecom York and moving to the United States with her husband. At a farewell reception in June, Smith quipped: "We may be losing Ulla, but we're keeping her voice," to which Campbell replied swiftly, "I'll take royalties." The truth is, her voice will remain until there are changes made to the phone system which necessitate new recordings.

Campbell worked at York for seven years prior to having children. She was asked to return part time in 1985, then full time in 1986, to help in the switch over from the Centrex System to ROLM PBX (now also outmoded). "When I was out for those years, I thought I'd never be able to return," said Campbell. "The technology had changed so much in that time. In the '70s the phones were analog. In the 80s they were digital. Everyone was using computers. There were automated voicemail systems....But the university trained me on everything. They were wonderful."

By the way, the person-behind-the-face-behind-the-voice at York is every bit as bright as she sounds. And, in case you were wondering, she does speak like everyone else when not delivering a recorded message on the phone system.

By Michal Nahman

Twenty five speakers and participants from the US and Canada gathered on June 18, 1999 for the workshop: "Regeneration and Medical History: The Implications of 'Fictionalized' Medicine for Teaching, Research and Scholarship." Inspired by Pat Barker's 1996 Regeneration trilogy and funded by the AMS-Hannah Institute (with additional support from the Departments of History and Anthropology, the Division of Humanities and the York University Centre for Health Studies), the workshop brought together representatives from the media arts and academic disciplines of history of medicine, anthropology and the medical humanities to explore the ways in which 'fictionalized' medical history impacts upon public awareness of medical history, how this affects research in the history of medicine and what implications this has for teaching undergraduate arts and medical students.

The day commenced with introductory remarks from organizers Georgina Feldberg (York, social science and director of the York University Centre for Health Studies) and Naomi Adelson (York, anthropology). The first panel, "Regeneration and Medical History: Fact, Fiction and Narrative" was moderated by Michael Lambek (University of Toronto, anthropology). Speakers Allan Young (McGill, social studies of medicine), and Katherine Nickerson (Columbia, clinical medicine) critiqued and applauded the 'fictionalization' of war psychiatrist and anthropologist W.H.R. Rivers in Pat Barker's trilogy. Further, it was a great honour to have a pre-recorded video interview with eminent Canadian anthropologist Richard Slobodin (McMaster, anthropology), who is the primary biographer of Rivers.

The second panel, moderated by Marlene Shore (York, history and acting graduate director of the Department of History), was titled: "Popularizing Medical History: Pedagogical Implications". This panel explored the use of popular films and novels in teaching undergraduate medical and arts students. Intriguing and instrumental papers were presented by James Moran (York, history), Terrie Romano (Queens, health sciences) and Katherine Lawton (York, history).

The final panel of the day explored the "Perils and Prospects" of fictionalizing medical history. Moderated by Feldberg, it included papers by Anne Hudson Jones (Texas, Institute for the Medical Humanities), Karen Keely (UCLA, English) and Marianne Brandis (independent author). Historian Susan Lederer, (Penn. State) was scheduled to speak but was unable due to scheduling conflicts. However, Lederer generously sent a copy of her paper to be circulated to participants.

Jones spoke from her considerable experience both as professor in the medical humanities and founding editor of the journal Literature and Medicine. Brandis gave an exciting account of the ways in which she as an author weaves together 'real' historical details with fiction. These were particularly relevant papers because they dealt with the practices of writing history into fiction and they blurred the theoretical boundaries between fact and fiction. As was stressed by Brandis, the process of writing historical fiction can be compared to that of writing history. The sources and research skills employed by the author are much like those of the historian. These and other implications for medical historians and authors of fiction alike were addressed by panelists and discussants.

The conference, organized by Feldberg, Adelson and Michal Nahman (graduate student, anthropology), was a success. Both the formal paper presentations as well as the exciting discussion that took place afterwards made it a thought-provoking and exciting day for all. Plans are underway to compile a volume of collected essays from the day's presentations. It is hoped that these essays, like the discussion during the workshop, will provide insights into the bounds between historical fact and historical fiction.

Michal Nahman is a graduate student in anthropology at York University.

By Andrew McRae

Seneca@York: The future of technical training

The dust has settled, the tar dried, the mortar laid. The less inquisitive among us may yet claim ignorance of what the grand building that grew from the ground on York's Pond Road almost overnight is. Seneca@York, the spaceship-like structure is, in a word, dazzling.

Seneca@York is a joint venture between York University and Seneca College to create an "advanced technology" campus that will be compatible with existing York structures and accessible to all students. This collaboration, which is between the two higher educational institutions and private industry, is the first of its kind in Ontario.

The 270,000 square foot building, designed by renowned architect Raymond Moriyama, features the latest advances in electronic communications and network technology. According to the principal of Seneca@York, Dr. Peter Kanitz, "The facility design will rely heavily on state-of-the-art education technology to significantly reduce the need for the traditional classroom environment."

Computer and library resources are fully integrated. The Learning Commons - housing hundreds of PCs and MACs - offers an intriguing view from the upper floor, where the seemingly endless maze of computer terminals dizzies the senses. Also equipped with general purpose microcomputer laboratories, project rooms, quiet study space, and audio-visual services, the Commons is an example of a research space with one eye to the future.

Classrooms include a collection of configurations that allow for various teaching modes, two lecture theatres, and a highly prized "kaleidoscope" room equipped for multimedia and video conferencing needs. The interior learning environment is designed to showcase the educational process through the use of glass partitions in all classrooms.

Academic programs offered
at Seneca@York are: Biological Sciences and Applied Chemistry, Communication Arts, Computer Studies, Professional Communications, and Seneca College/York University Advanced Technology Program. Laboratory space has been reserved for the development of joint Seneca/York high technology programs in conjunction with industry.

Co-funded by Seneca College and the Government of Ontario, the agreement to house the Seneca campus at York was signed by the two institutions on Thursday,
May 22, 1997 and ground was broken on July 4, 1997. Construction was completed in record time and the first classes commenced in May 1999.

Seneca@York serves as the flagship for the blending of the analytical strengths of a university with the technical skills and training of a college. This project is one with an eye to the future, and will benefit the technical and research skills of both institutions.

By Andrew McRae and Cathy Carlyle

Globalization is with us and we as Canadians experience it through the North American Free Trade Agreement. Much of the world's developed economies are free trade and knowledge based. Trade liberalization has created regional integration and special problems previously unseen. With the idea of examining Canada's evolving role in this transformation, York held the first Canadian Studies Summer Institute for Scholars and Canadianists.

Hosted in July by the University's Robarts Centre for Canadian Studies in collaboration with the International Council of Canadian Studies, and supported by the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs, the Summer Institute provided scholars with a unique opportunity to acquire an introduction to Canada in a thematic way. In light of the dismantling of trade barriers and the acceleration of regional integration, the general theme chosen for the Institute was "Hemispheric Integration: Hard Choices for Canada". Sessions focused largely on analyzing the dynamics of political cohesion and social exclusion in the Americas, and Canada's place in the integration process as well as its role in the trade agenda of the Americas. The impact of hemispheric integration on Canada was also explored.

"The Institute was designed to broaden the knowledge base about Canada for experts who were mainly from Latin America, but also from parts of Europe," said Daniel Drache, director of the Robarts Centre and organizer of the event. "Throughout the hemisphere, all governments need to deal with issues of cohesion, social exclusion - such as marginalization and increases in poverty and homelessness - and integration. For instance, delegates learned about the contradictory effects of NAFTA and, as well, developed a broader awareness of cultural policy and the dramatic changes to Canada's social policies of the last decade."

Drache said that the Institute was "remarkably successful" because many of the scholars from Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Spain and Italy had never had an opportunity to work with leading Canadian experts on such topics as the after-effects of the removal of trade barriers, gender issues and pay equity, the future of Canada's national health system, maintaining Canada's hybrid society, this country's high unemployment, and our social market policies.

"Nor did they have a deep understanding, before, of the impact of economic integration pressures on Canadian society," he added. "We were fortunate in having several of York's top public policy experts present many of the sessions."

The session opened with Edgar Dosman of York's Centre for International and Security Studies speaking of Canada's evolving relationship with Latin America. John Hutcheson of York's social sciences division outlined the basic structures and policies of the Canadian economy, and Daniel Drache, Robarts Centre director, examined globalization and foreign perceptions of Canada.

In addressing the foreign delegation of scholars and economists from Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Brazil and Italy, Dosman spoke about trade liberalization and the aftermath of the 1989 Free Trade Agreement. "The research that we've done in Canada on the trade liberalizations so far [shows] there is a correlation between trade liberalization and worsening of income distribution."

Drache offered some interesting questions about Canada as perceived by foreign investors: "How would one characterize Canada?...Are Canadians basically American people but with their own peculiarities? Or, are Canada and the US fundamentally different societies sharing a common standard of living?"

The approximately 40 people attending the Institute were particularly interested in an extended seminar on "Canada and Quebec: On the Edge - Contrasting Strategies of Ottawa and Quebec", presented by Ken McRoberts, principal of Glendon College, and Daniel Latouche of the INRS (Institut Nationale de Recherche Scientifique), chaired by Roberto Perin of York's Department of History.

Among other presenters from the University were Joyce Zemans from the Faculty of Fine Arts and Fred Lazar of the Schulich School of Business. Those from outside the University included John McCallum, vice-president and chief economist of the Royal Bank of Canada, Michael Mendelson of the Caledon Institute of Social Policy and Ken Traynor, of the Canadian Environmental Law Association.

"This first Summer Institute achieved more than anyone could have predicted and has put York University on the map," said Drache. "We anticipate more people coming from other countries for future Institutes."

By Andrew McRae

York Professor Emeritus Lee Lorch

Civil rights activist and York University Professor Emeritus Lee Lorch has received an honorary degree from Spelman College - America's leading college for black women - for his contributions not only to mathematics, but his lifelong struggle for equal opportunities in education for black Americans.

Lorch, 84, who received the degree on May 16, 1999, gave high praise to the Atlanta, Georgia college, which serves as a flagship for opportunities in higher education for black women. In 1997, history was made when Audrey Forbes Manley became the institution's first president as a Spelman graduate.

However, Lorch is disillusioned by the racial repression that still exists in American universities today: "It [Spelman College] only provides a good example of the ongoing systemic racism [in the US]," he says.

He compares the college's funding and number of faculty members to its typical "white" counterpart. Wellesley College in Massachusetts, based heavily on the Euro-American tradition, is a good example, as its enrolment is comparable to that of Spelman. Yet, it has twice the faculty complement of Spelman.

"You can't point to any deliberate act of racism that created the discrepancy, but that's what's inherent in the system. There simply isn't the money for black institutions to have in order to function, and Spelman is one of the more fortunately situated," Lorch says, adding, "They aren't able to tap the same resources that white institutions can."

Often, black institutions can only remain financially solvent by receiving generous donations. Recently, American comedian Bill Cosby donated 20 million dollars to Spelman College.

The Lorch family's civil rights activism led to increased difficulty in obtaining employment in the US in the late 1950s. As a result, they moved to Canada as political refugees, and in 1959 Dr. Lorch joined the mathematics Faculty of the University of Alberta, where he taught until his arrival at York in 1968.

Lorch, who has held positions at seven international universities and several other institutions in the US, has waged a continuing struggle for equal education opportunities for minority groups.

In the early 1940s, he was fired from City College of New York for his attempts to end racial segregation in a housing development in that city. He was subsequently fired from Pennsylvania State University for subletting his apartment to a black family.

The sackings continued as Lorch tried to force the Mathematical Association of America to admit his black colleagues in the mathematics department to a banquet at the regional meeting in Nashville, and after attempts to enroll his daughter in a black neighbourhood school bordering Fisk University.

Although the US Supreme Court had ruled against school segregation earlier in 1954, he was summoned before the ludicrous House Committee on Un-American Activities, and quickly dismissed from the Faculty by the predominantly white board of trustees at Fisk University, over the opposition of his mathematics colleagues and the leading black trustees.

In 1955, Lorch moved on to Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas, as Chair of its mathematics department. Two years later, the Arkansas National Guard, acting on direct orders from the governor, surrounded Little Rock High School in an attempt to keep the nine enrolled black students off the premises; this, in the face of the US federal court ruling for school desegregation. One of the black students, a 15 year-old girl, was menaced by a mob during the standoff. Grace Lorch (late wife of Lee Lorch), saved her from the mob, and subsequently took her home. Grace, together with her husband, were united in their attempts to battle discrimination.

Lorch has not only made advancements in mathematics, particularly in the field of classical analysis and special functions, but has offered hope and inspiration for many black students with restricted opportunities.

Although he has retired from teaching, he continues to write for mathematics publications - a practice he has enjoyed for years. While most of his US Army colleagues were fast asleep, Lorch was writing for mathematics journals in his barracks while serving in India during the Second World War.

With deepest sorrow we tell of the passing on July 12, 1999 of Jocelyn Patricia Morton. "Jocie" worked for 12 years as the senior sculpture studio technician in the Faculty of Fine Arts at York, following her graduation with a BFA in the early 1970s. In that time she made many friends among staff, students and faculty and is remembered for her warmth, good humour, love of life and love of people. No sun will shine as greatly in our world again.

A wonderful mother to her son Daniel and strong, supportive partner to her son's father David Kosub; beloved daughter of Mickey and Doug, former Chair of York's Visual Arts Department; always there for siblings Mair, Dene, Cindy, Taron and Doug; devoted and loving sister-in-law to Bevin, Peter, Karin and Steven; special friend and adoring aunt to Mara, Georgia, Chelsea, Brendan, Molly, Rachel, Nathan, Kalana and Miranda. Thanks to the special friends who helped her through this long and arduous journey with their hope, laughter and songs: her dear Tom, Cathy, Cynthia, Ron, Dr. "Flash" Gordon and Garth.

By Nishat Karim

Tatham Hall Residence:

You can be an athlete - if you set your mind to it. You can be the author of several books - if you set your mind to it. You can even be a concert pianist - but only if you set your mind to it. Still not inspired to reach for your dreams? Just look at Professor George Tatham, the man who set his mind to accomplishing all of that - and did. McLaughlin College Residence, is thus justly proud to be named Tatham Hall.

With a wide interest in public affairs, Tatham graduated from Liverpool University and received his PhD from Clark University. The first Master of McLaughlin College, wrote three books on geography and lectured at universities across Canada and United States. Tatham, a founding faculty member at York and professor emeritus of geography, had talents that extend far beyond academic boundaries. He distinguished himself not only as a talented professor, but also as a well-known concert pianist and athlete. The McLaughlin College residence building was built in 1968 and named after George Tatham in 1988.

By Susan Scott

Theresa Hyun, symposium organizer and professor of humanities at York who teaches Korean studies courses.

Albert Moritz's curiosity about literature, particularly poetry in different languages, inspired his career path as a translator.

Moritz was one of several translators who participated in a panel discussion during a one-day symposium on "Translating in the Age of Globalization: Korean Literature in North America" held at York on May 7, 1999.

He said there is little awareness about the language skills of people who speak two or more languages. There is only a small group of people using their skills for translation and he believes more bilingual and multilingual speakers should be encouraged to use their skills in translation.

Increasing the number of translators, said Moritz, is an issue stemming from the lack of interest socially in literature in both English and non-English communities whose literature is translated.

Theresa Moritz, who, with her husband Albert, translates Chilean poetry, echoed those comments by saying, "people who speak more than one language have a lot to offer society whether it be in business opportunities, or being able to speak to people about their experiences. Language often divides communities, but translation is a way to bring communities together and allow people to see beyond or behind the language barrier."

Bruce Fulton, an award-winning translator of modern Korean literature, said many people are not even aware that Korea has its own literature. The role of a translator is to take that unknown authorship and bring it to the attention of readers in the English-speaking world. He suggested this can be done through organized public readings by authors during which translators can act as a "go-between" with the audience.

Another problem with translating a lesser known language, said Fulton, is competition with other international literature in translation which is better known.

Beatrice Zeller, former president of the Literary Translators' Association of Canada, stated that attitudes toward foreign literature in Canada are "racist and xenophobic". And translation as a professional category doesn't exist. Translators are not considered writers, and until the 1970s, title pages of books or journals did not recognize or include a translator's name.

Vivian Felson translates primarily Yiddish literature. She said translation of this language is crucial because she feels it is "dying". She estimates there are fewer than 30,000 Jewish people in Canada and less than two million Jewish people worldwide who speak Yiddish. Translating Yiddish is more difficult because of the nature of the language - words are multi-layered and cultural nuances are lost in translation. As well, there are no current English/Yiddish dictionaries so Felson substitutes Hebrew, Russian and German dictionaries to translate Yiddish into English.

The panel discussion was part of the symposium organized by York's Division of Humanities Professor Theresa Hyun, who is the only full-time teacher of Korean studies courses at the University.

Hyun said the symposium was particularly useful for ethnic Korean students and second-generation Koreans to "keep in touch with their roots" and learn more about their culture.

These communities need to be a part of organizing events like this, she added.

"It's also important to put Korea in a broader, multicultural context," she explained. "This symposium was a multicultural event" due to the range of speakers from different countries.

This latest symposium was the second in a series resulting from a grant from the Max Bell Foundation to establish a Community Outreach Lecture Series. The mandate of the grant was to organize conferences and events for the community. The first of these at York was in 1997.

Korean studies, which is part of the East Asian Studies Program within the Division of Humanities, started in 1992 and is financially supported by the Korea Foundation, based in Seoul, South Korea, and the Max Bell Foundation in Toronto, explains Hyun. The program offers three Korea-related courses including Introduction to Korean Culture. There are approximately 300 students enrolled. Hyun emphasizes that the courses are open to all York students.

By Susan Scott

Professor Ko Un, left, meets York President Lorna Marsden, (as Theresa Hyun looks on).

He is a former Buddhist monk, imprisoned for his outspoken views on the government of South Korea. But two constants have remained throughout his life: his poetry and the ways his life experiences have shaped the nature of his work.

Ko Un is a poet and university professor of Korean literature at Kyung Gi University in Seoul, South Korea. He was a keynote speaker at a one-day symposium held at York last month on the theme, "Translating in the Age of Globalization: Korean Literature in North America." The event gathered together translators, authors, faculty, students and members of the community to discuss the challenges faced by translators as they bring minority languages to North American, particularly Canadian, audiences.

Political and social hardship in Korea inspired Ko's poetry throughout most of his life.

During the 1930s, the Japanese colonized Korea and Ko lived his childhood in war. He recalled the beauty of South Korea being taken away as the Japanese prohibited the use of the Korean language, including Korean names. After the Japanese occupation, Korea underwent civil war resulting in the division of the country.

Ko described his poetry as sprouting from the "ruins" of his country and his heart. Later, he studied Buddhism to try and cure his "wounded spirit".

During the Vietnam War of the late 1960s and early 1970s, Ko's depression about the state of Korea, as he saw it, influenced his life and poetry. Death surrounded him. Ko was openly critical of the South Korean government during the 1970s and 1980s. He was imprisoned for trying to start a national rebellion, then released in the mid-1980s. Social upheaval marked the times, and Ko's work reflected this sentiment, particularly when he was imprisoned.

His post-prison experience, including his marriage, again influenced his poetry, this time in a more positive way. His new work has focused on people's existence and coexistence with all living things. In his words, "I am not one, but many."

Kim Jay-Hong, professor of Korean literature at Kyung Hee University in Seoul, who spoke next, explained that for him, literature development in Korea is characterized by two major events - Japanese colonization and Korean independence. After the country divided into north and south, which Jay-Hong describes as "left and right" respectively, the literature of the country also changed. More "resistance" literature was written such as that by Ko Un who wrote about the democracy movement and despotic leadership. National literature focused on issues like social and environmental problems, labour unrest, and national separation and reunification.

He raised the possibility of a new area for literary expression that may come from the experiences of those people living in the so-called demilitarized zone (separating North and South Korea), about which has not yet been written.

Another speaker, Bruce Fulton, an award-winning translator of Korean literature, suggested that there is a wealth of Korean literature out there ready to be read, but it's been obscured by the country's history and economic development. He also said North Americans tend to prefer novels whereas Korean literature is rooted in poetry and short stories.

Moreover, Fulton bemoaned the lack of translation from Korean to English. He said there's less demand for Korean literature since there's an abundance of "good quality reading" available in English, and in translation from other languages.
However, he emphasized that the benefit of globalization and literature is that through sharing our themes and situations across borders, we can hopefully increase readership around the world.

The symposium was organized by Theresa Hyun, a professor of humanities at York, who teaches Korean studies courses. It was sponsored by the Korean Consulate General of Toronto, the Korea Foundation (based in Seoul), the Max Bell Foundation, and the Korean-Canadian Writers Association, the latter assisted with mobilizing members of the community to attend the symposium.

By Cathy Carlyle

Laurie McNelles is coordinator of Project ADVANCE.

Most of us are familiar with a child - our own, a neighbour's, a relative's - who seems to be of average or above average intelligence but has always had difficulties in learning throughout school. What happens when that same child wants to attend university, especially one which is away from home where the usual supports are not in place?

Project ADVANCE, a six-week summer pilot program at York is aiming to help just such a child. It is for students with learning disabilities who are in transition from high school to university. Offered through the University's Learning Disabilities Programme, it is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Education and Training, Learning Opportunities Task Force. This year 16 students are participating in the project.

"The task force indicated that they wanted to try innovative ways to help high-school students with learning disabilities further their education," said Laurie McNelles, coordinator of the project at York. "The idea is to help students with recognized learning disabilities find ways to manage themselves and achieve their goals in higher education."

Marc Wilchesky, Director of York's Learning Disabilities Programme (LDP), and Cora Dusk, Assistant Vice-President (Student Affairs), launched Project ADVANCE at the University by submitting a successful grant proposal to the government. As a result, York received funding to operate Project ADVANCE as well as other transitional pilot projects for students with learning disabilities during the next four years. "We know that there is a significant period of adjustment for any student moving from secondary to postsecondary education," said Wilchesky, "and that this adjustment could be even more daunting for students with learning disabilities. Since the inception of the LDP in 1985, we've realized that many students with learning disabilities could be better prepared for university studies, but the grant provides us with our first opportunity to address these concerns with a summer transitional program."

McNelles said that most problems arise during the first term in the first year of study. "These students have overcome numerous challenges throughout school, but usually with the tireless support of parents, teachers, coaches and so on. However, often when the students go to university the people who have given support are not in the same city, and that makes it extremely difficult for the students.

"Another change for them is in expectations." she said. "For example, in a high-school setting students spend more time in the class than doing homework on their own. At university this reverses; they are expected to work much more independently. There's a jump in academic expectations, too. And so many don't live at home, where they could get one-on-one help."

Those attending Project ADVANCE will be taught some basic, practical skills which will be useful to them in the university setting. Many learning disabilities centre around trouble with reading and, at university, students have a huge volume of reading material. The project helps them become familiar with computer-assisted reading programs and strategies. Strategies might be as simple as questioning what they've read after every few paragraphs and training themselves to become aware of key words and themes. They also learn ways to sharpen their memories, improve study habits ("never when tired" is one suggestion), and prepare for tests.

Composing essays and doing critical analyses are other trials for some to overcome. The project has software programs available to students who need help in those areas. "And we offer advice on such things as how to write a scholarly argument in a clear, organized way," said McNelles. As well, students are given tips on developing such skills as listening, note-taking and time management. "Often, parents have been the managers of this side of a learning-disabled student's life, and now that person is on his or her own. They can become overwhelmed. In Project ADVANCE we have a holistic idea of time management. We believe there should be times set aside for study, review, relaxation and rejuvenation."

Non-academic themes are touched upon in the program as well. "We help increase students' campus awareness by letting them know what's available to them in support services - counselling, bursaries, and so on," said McNelles. "What we're trying to do is ease their fears. There are large classes and unfamiliar instructors at university. That can be daunting. We want students with learning disabilities to have the skills they need to be successful in their studies, and to know that their time at university can be exciting."

Project ADVANCE is available to students who are Ontario residents, regardless of where they plan to attend university. To qualify for entry into the program, they must have a documented learning disability, an average of 65% or higher in six OAC credits, a letter of recommendation from an educator at their high school, and a personal statement of why they want to be part of the project.

By Andrew McRae

The late Otumfuo Nana Opoku Ware II

Much of Ghana is in upheaval. The sudden death of Otumfuo Nana Opoku Ware II, King of the Ashantis, has led to a scramble to name a successor and organize funeral arrangements. Joseph Adubofuor, York graduate student and nephew of the late Ashanti monarch, has been filming the various stages and rituals of the complex funeral process. This documentary is the first of its kind at York, and will serve as a useful research tool for scholars.

"It is my intention to both enable those Ashantis living outside of Ghana who were unable to return home for the funeral of their king to be able to mark his passing and to feel more connected to the events surrounding the burial of the king," said Adubofuor. The documentary is an important historical and cultural account of the Ashanti people.

The Ashanti tribe or "nation" is large, making it a significant cultural force within Ghana. The death of its king is therefore an event that affects many Ghanaians, both living in and out of the "Gold Coast" country.

One relatively new aspect of the royal funeral Adubofuor highlights is the clash of Ashanti tradition with modernity. In previous eras, the death (or awaited death) of a monarch was a secretive affair, with the news only circulated within close family and political circles. The state was informed only after funeral arrangements were complete. In contrast, news of Opoku Ware II's death was announced not by the Ashanti Queen Mother, but by the BBC and the Internet.

Adubofuor's film also focuses on the culturally important matter of reaffirming ties to one's tribe. At the passing of the tribe leader, "most Ashantis converge at the Manhyia Palace as a sign of solidarity and to console one another. At the same time, they are expected to perform their duty, for example, if you are a drummer, you join the drumming group," Adubofuor explained. When called, Ashantis temporarily leave their occupations in order to perform their duty for the king.

The Ashanti nation dates back to 1695 when Komfo Anokye, a priest, commanded the "Golden Stool" (comparable to the royal throne in western monarchist tradition) from the heavens to unite five Ashanti clans, subsequently appointing the nation's first king. The Ashantis have since payed homage to sixteen kings.

The late Ashanti monarch's life was primarily a civilian one prior to his accession to the throne. Born into the Ashanti Royal Family in 1919 in Kumasi, Ghana, Opoku Ware II (born as Matthew Poku, but more affectionately Nana Poku) was raised a Christian and attended Anglican school at Adisadel College, Cape Coast, Ghana.

Poku worked as a surveyor until 1951, when he left to study law at the University of Exeter, UK. When called to the bar at the Middle Temple in 1962, he returned to his homeland to practice law in the Chambers of Messrs Effa and Tortoe. He later founded a private law practice in Kumasi.

In 1986, Poku served as Commissioner for Transport and Communications under the National Liberation Council (NLC) where he opened a new automatic long-distance dialling exchange and led bilateral trade delegations to Europe and the United States.

He soon stepped down after being appointed ambassador-designate to Italy when Otumfuo Nana Agyeman Prempeh II died in 1970 and Poku succeeded him as next to the throne. Nana Poku was installed Otumfuo Opoku Ware II and swore his oath of office to the Kumasi state on June 6, 1970. Opoku Ware II reigned for 29 years before his death on February 25, 1999.

The late monarch's health was unsteady since 1996, following the death of his wife. The loss was difficult to bear, and those close to him saw a steady decline in his health.

Adubofuor speaks highly of his late uncle: "There was no greater man of peace or influential ambassador at large than Otumfuo Opoku Ware II. He was Ghana's ambassador of goodwill par excellence."

Adubofuor is proud to document the culture of his people, and is keen to offer his work as an indepth scholarly study of Ashantis for later scholars. However, enthusiasm alone cannot produce such a documentary; Adubofuor still awaits much needed funding for his study.

By Andrew McRae

Future development of York's southeast and southwest precincts is to be closely scrutinized for the benefit of creating strong community/University relationships and to realize both financial and community resources which will strengthen the campus.

Commissioned by the York University Development Corporation (YUDC), the project places strong emphasis on gathering ideas and opinions regarding the course of future development by all facets of the University community.

Throughout the summer months, development consultants have been gathering background information and identifying key issues and requirements of the site. This research will culminate in a "kick-off" event in September where all York community groups will have the opportunity to offer their thoughts on the course of future campus development in terms of concept alternatives.

"We want to make sure that everyone has an opportunity to participate in this," said YUDC President Ron Hunt.

Providing lifestyle opportunities and choices for faculty, staff, students and the broader marketplace that serve to create a 24-hour working and living environment on the York University campus is one of the main development principles that will guide the shape of the Community Concept Plan.

By Cathy Carlyle

More than 400 people took advantage of the beautiful weather to turn out for the annual Schulich School of Business barbecue.

York's Schulich School of Business barbecue is hot stuff. It doesn't seem to matter if the weather is warm or chilly; it draws the crowds. The cool weather last year didn't stop hungry hordes from showing up, and the unrelenting heat for this year's sixth annual event drew a ravenous crowd of more than 400 people.

People turned out at lunchtime on June 22 to enjoy hamburgers, sausages, beverages, and everything else that goes with summer meals in the outdoors. It wasn't just the hearty food that attracted them. They wanted to assist the business school in raising money for charity. This annual event was organized by Schulich Social Committee members Mary Amati, Debbie Farrell, Helen Hundert, Paula Ironi and Filomena Ticzon. "Each year we choose a different, small charity," said Amati. "This time it is Harmony Place Support Services."

Harmony Place provides work training and skill development in a variety of programs designed for adults with developmental and physical disabilities. It was established by a group of parents in 1993 and now serves over 30 people, helping them gain more independence and become integrated into the community. Until this year the organization received no government funding and now, even with the one-time grant it received, needs funding to continue operating.

The school already raised $450 through a bake sale last November. With that the organization bought a special control for operating kitchen devices to aid people who have difficulty in using their hands. Proceeds from the barbecue amounted to $1,600.

Sponsors for the event were Schulich's Division of Executive Development, the Financial Poste coffee shop, the Graduate Student Lounge, and the following external businesses: The Body Shop, Cadbury Chocolate Canada, Molson's Canada, Pepsi Cola Canada, Polar Ice, and Warner Lambert. Artist David Whitley was on hand sketching caricatures and donating proceeds to the charity. There was a draw for a sweater, and the winner was York student Rob Van Mill. Organizers of the event were grateful to Schulich's staff and faculty for volunteering their time to make the fund-raising barbecue successful and to York's caretaking, grounds and ITC staff for their exceptional assistance.

If you have recently published or co-edited a book, and would like it featured in the Gazette's bi-weekly book column, "Shelf Esteem", please forward reviews, press clippings, jacket copy or publishers' press releases to Shelf Esteem, York University Gazette, Suite 280, York Lanes. Publishers' complimentary copies are also welcome and can be used for illustration.

Robert Fothergill, professor of theatre history has garnered another award in his distinguished theatre career, recently winning second place in the 1999 Herman Voaden National Playwriting Competition from the Department of Drama, Queen's University. Fothergill's play Borderline will be professionally workshopped this October, and Toronto's Theatre Passe Muraille has expressed an interest in producing it. Fothergill received a Chalmers Award and several Dora nominations for his play Detaining Mr. Trotsky in 1987 and a Chalmer's nomination for his 1993 Tarragon Theatre production of Public Lies. He has just completed a five-year term as Chair of York's Department of Theatre.

David M. Regan, professor of psychology and biology, was recently appointed to the Spinoza Chair for 1999 by the Faculty of Medicine, University of Amsterdam. This October Regan will give five public lectures in Amsterdam on topics ranging from the human brain to highway accidents, aviation safety and vision in sport. To acknowledge Regan's outstanding academic work, he was also elected a foreign member of the Science Division of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences on April 26 1999. At present there are only 120 members in the Netherlands and a limited number of foreign members.

Regan is a York University Distinguished Research Professor, Fellow and Dawson Medallist of the Royal Society of Canada, an I.W. Killam Fellow and a recipient of the Prentice Medal. His research interests include normal visual and auditory perception as well as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and glaucoma.

Orienteering is not a sport for everyone, but every Fall, orientation at York is something special. And if you are a first year student it's something you need to find your way around campus and college, classroom and library.

As any avid Internet viewer knows, the best place to start is the Web. The Student Orientation Web site at http://www.yorku.ca/admin/orient/ is the place to go. It's even easier to find if you happen to be browsing the York University Home Page www.yorku.ca/ . Just click on "Orientation '99 News" and you're there.

This is a site packed with information about orientation: what it is and why you should be there. There is a breakdown of academic and social activities, access to information from the OSA (that's Office of Student Affairs) and links to activities at each of the York colleges - even information on getting to and getting around York.

Still interested? Then click on the OSA site and then into an electronic version of You Are Here!: A Guide for First Year Students giving you everything you wanted to know about York and links to other useful and fun sites including:

• Important Academic Information
• Getting Involved
• Celebrating Diversity
• Safe, Healthy & Fit
• Did You Say Culture?
• Places to Go & People to Know!
• Reference Materials
• Important Contact Numbers