Fitchburg State University students in Professor Kyle Moody’s social media campaign class spent the fall semester designing multimedia collateral for the Worcester County District Attorney’s public relations campaign to encourage safe driving for mobile phone users. The experience was life-changing for the students and, according to District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr., will also make an impact on members of the public who view their work.    “The work you did here is going to save lives,” Early told the students when he and members of his team recently visited the class to review their deliverables for the “Eyes Up Phones Down” campaign. “This is the best work we’ve had from a university for our campaign. It’s tremendous, and right to the point. I believe it will influence drivers, young and old, to think about using the Do Not Disturb function on their phones, preventing accidents, making our roads safer, and saving lives.” University President Donna Hodge said she was also impressed by the caliber of the students’ work. “I am amazed by the thoughtful and powerful collateral these students created in collaboration with Professor Moody and the clients from the District Attorney’s office,” Hodge said. “I am grateful to the District Attorney’s team for providing our students and faculty the opportunity to engage in such an important, hands-on experience.”  In addition to a traditional press release, the students created a variety of material for dissemination on social media, including short videos and graphics designed to demonstrate the dangers of phone use while driving, as well as illustrating fast ways to disable potentially distracting notifications when one should be focused on the road. The components vary in tone from chillingly serious to darkly humorous, but all convey a quickly digestible message about the dangers of distracted driving. The assets created by teams of students in Moody’s class complement campaign that launched in 2020 with community partners including the city of Worcester, the Worcester Police Department and Safe Roads Alliance. While the effort was stalled during the pandemic, it was relaunched earlier this year with additional partners, including the Registry of Motor Vehicles, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, American Automobile Association (AAA) Northeast and WalkBike Worcester. The campaign aims to further promote awareness of safe practices to manage road safety and decrease fatality due to distracted driving, according to the students. “I think having the knowledge that these elements could actually be put to use in a public-facing effort really pushed me to give 110% of my energy,” said Alexander McLean of Randolph, a sophomore majoring in communications media with dual concentrations in film and video and public relations, social media, and advertising production. “I had never worked on a public social media campaign like this before, so to be able to do this for a class was an opportunity I couldn't be more thankful for.”   “The most challenging aspect of creating this campaign was making sure it connected with all audiences while maintaining the seriousness of the issue but adding a touch of lightheartedness,” said Gabriella Cavallero of Leominster, a sophomore majoring in communications media with a concentration in public relations, social media and advertising. “We were always mindful of keeping it professional and addressing the gravity of the campaign. However, as we learned in this class, seriousness doesn't always resonate well with every audience. By incorporating a light-hearted approach, such as playful hashtags, we aimed to target a larger and more diverse group.” The students said it was a meaningful collaboration. “With the deliverables handed over, I am already looking back at this project with great pride,” said McLean. “The district attorney, the Eyes Up Phones Down clients, and President Hodge gave such amazing feedback and positive reactions that I don’t think I’d be able to find any negatives with our work if I tried. Not only that, but myself and another student have been in contact with them to potentially do another project with them next semester. That project would be another huge opportunity for me, and it's all because of this class and the work we all put in. From now and forever, I think I'll always look back at this project with great pride.” Cavallero was also proud of the teamwork that created the campaign. “I will always look back at this project as one of the most useful experiences that I have contributed to during my time at Fitchburg State,” she said. “I am proud of how the class and I navigated through challenges that may have arisen, but also how we were able to maintain creativity while addressing a serious matter. This project will always be something that I can say I am grateful for and proud to be a part of.”  Early told the students their campaign assets will be effective modes of communication as he seeks to prevent accidents related to distracted driving. “The whole reason I got into this job was to try to prevent crime,” Early said. “Life can and often does change in the blink of an eye.”  Professor Moody was proud of his students’ work.  “This class stood out to me because working with the District Attorney's office on this campaign allowed us to do some direct social good on an important issue within Worcester County,” he said. “The students saw the issue, stepped up to the challenge, and offered their best work while also keeping an eye on making the content fit to industry standards. Every professor dreams of a class like this, where everybody is firing on all cylinders and bringing their best to every meeting. I am very proud of every student, and have been lucky to see them grow so much over a short period of time.”

Joshua Dodds, M.Ed., Fitchburg State University’s first executive director of diversity, equity and belonging programs, seeks to foster an environment where all perspectives are heard and valued. “I have learned the campus experience is what you make it,” Dodds said. “If you can’t find that experience, you have to create it.” Dodds found his own voice as an advocate when he was an undergraduate student at another institution. Several fellow Black students had been in an encounter with police that was exacerbated by cultural misunderstanding, he recalled, and he was called upon to speak on their behalf. That began what has become a 15-year career in DEI work, and a calling Dodds sees as critical amid a national conversation around the topic that has created further misunderstandings. “Right now we’re in a period of re-education about DEI,” he said. “It’s about recognizing socioeconomic status and identity. We all embody diversity. Belonging means being at the table, and also feeling welcome at the table. It means we need everybody at the table in order for all of us to have the same vision. These perspectives coming together will help us have a better perspective on life.”  Dodds brings experience in corporate and educational settings to his expanded role at Fitchburg State. He holds a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. His national memberships include designation as a Leadership Fellows Diversity Mentor with the National Association of Campus Activities, the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, and the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education.   University President Donna Hodge, who joined the Fitchburg State community this summer as its 12th president, said she wanted the next leader of the campus’s longstanding Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness to embrace a more holistic vision of DEI and belonging work, serving the entire campus population rather than focusing on the student experience. “Fitchburg State will rise depending on our ability to create and foster a campus where all students feel they are welcomed to pursue their highest aspirations for themselves,” Hodge said. “I believe Josh will help drive the conversations among our students, faculty, librarians and staff members that will make that vision a reality.” Dodds said he was grateful for the opportunity. “I credit the university leadership for not being afraid to create a position of this caliber in this political climate,” he said. “My hope is that when people think of DEI work, they will look here as an example of how to do it right.”

When Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge and Rollstone Bank & Trust Chief Operating Officer Mary Beth Jokela met to discuss possible collaborations between their institutions, the conversation turned to the university’s growing international student population. Just this fall, Fitchburg State welcomed more than 70 new international students from 32 countries. Many of the students arrive on campus without some of the personal necessities that they will need as they embark on their experiences in the U.S. Jokela saw an opportunity for her community to welcome these international guests, and the “kindness kit” initiative was born. Rollstone Bank & Trust customers and employees donated items from personal care products to snack foods, and nearly 30 baskets were recently delivered to the university’s Office of international Education. “Rollstone Bank & Trust is committed to the community, including the students at Fitchburg State,” said Jokela. “When we learned about the obstacles that Fitchburg State’s international students have to go through, we decided we wanted to do something to make their transition a little easier. We’re grateful to our team and customers for supporting the program.” “The ‘Kindness Kit’ initiative was a natural fit for our Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) committee,” said Rollstone Senior VP of Human Resources and Chief Diversity Officer Amy Bonilla. “They spearheaded the collection efforts and helped assemble the baskets for the students.” “This donation was a wonderful way to mark International Education Week,” President Hodge said. “I am so grateful for the generosity of Rollstone Bank & Trust’s staff and customers, and the warm welcome their kindness will offer our students from around the world." View additional scenes from the delivery on the Burg Blog. 

The Fitchburg State University choirs will be joined by voices from local high schools when the campus presents its “Choral Kaleidoscope” concert in December. The performance will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10 in Weston Auditorium, 353 North St. Admission is free and open to the public.  “We call it the ‘choral kaleidoscope’ because it's a concert involving constantly shifting groups,” said Associate Professor Jonathan Harvey of the university’s Humanities Department, who leads the Fitchburg State choral ensembles. “Every ensemble presents a bite-sized set of music, and then to cap the evening, all 100-plus singers from all the groups will combine forces for some epic singing.” The Fitchburg State choirs will be led by Jonathan Harvey, Leominster High School Chorus led by Arthur Pierce, Fitchburg High School Concert Choir led by Talia Mercadante, Gardner High School Chorus led by Joanne Landry, and members of the Wachusett Regional High School Chorus and Chorale, led by Linnea Henningson. Fitchburg State this year launched two new undergraduate majors that open career pathways in the arts, providing students with strong interdisciplinary skills to respond to high-needs sectors of the statewide and regional creative economies.  The major in creative arts therapies is designed for students interested in learning how modalities of drama, music, and visual art are utilized in working with children and adults in a variety of care settings. The creative arts enterprise program equips individuals to be active and engaged artist entrepreneurs and practitioners across a variety of contexts.  Learn more about Fitchburg State’s choral and instrumental ensembles, including information about upcoming concerts, at fitchburgstate.edu/music.

President Hodge sent the following message to the campus community on Friday, Nov. 22. Dear Fitchburg State Community, As we prepare for the upcoming Thanksgiving break, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the resilience, dedication, and compassion that defines our university community. This season of gratitude offers a chance to reflect on the year’s challenges and achievements, and more importantly, on the people who make our campus such a vibrant and supportive place to learn, teach, and grow. In the last two weeks alone, we have been reminded of the deep divisions and complex realities that many are navigating. The U.S. presidential election and the broader, often turbulent, times in which we live can bring a heightened sense of uncertainty and concern. Whether you find yourself feeling hopeful, apprehensive, or somewhere in between, please know that you are not alone. At Fitchburg State, we stand together and reaffirm our commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for every member of our campus. Our mission as a regional comprehensive university serving North Central Massachusetts and beyond is as important as ever. We are dedicated to supporting the diverse communities we serve, with a focus on fostering academic excellence, promoting social equity, and creating pathways to opportunity for all. Our work is grounded in the belief that education is a powerful force for positive change—and that each of us has a role in making a difference. In this spirit, I want to express my gratitude to each of you—students, faculty, librarians, staff, alumni, and community partners—for your daily acts of service and commitment. Whether you contribute through mentoring, teaching, listening, coaching, or supporting the myriad day-to-day operations of our campus, you are part of the ecosystem that holds us together and drives our shared mission forward. I am humbled by the compassion, kindness, and support that I have witnessed across our university in just my first semester as your president. As we move into this holiday season, I encourage each of you to be kind to yourself and those around you; take time for rest, reflection, time alone — or making a connection with family, friends, loved ones. And as we look ahead to the work that remains, let us continue to draw strength from our shared values and our dedication to the transformative power of education.  Thank you for being part of the Fitchburg State community, and thank you for all you do to make our campus a place of learning, belonging, and hope. Our mission to make Fitchburg, this region, state, country, and world a better place starts here and now. Wishing us all a peaceful and restorative Thanksgiving break. Onward falcons, Dr. Donna Hodge President

Registration opens Tuesday, Dec. 10 for Fitchburg State University’s Adult Learning in the Fitchburg Area (ALFA) Spring 2025 courses, with offerings that will include an an introduction and exploration of common artificial intelligence platforms, how the U.S. was governed through the Great Depression and World War II, and the basics of novel writing. There are also courses on the science of psychiatric medication, an exploration of nuclear power and radiation, and decluttering your house. From exercise to outdoor excursions and an introduction to modern art, ALFA offers courses for countless interests.  There are dozens of classes on the calendar, including a five-part interdisciplinary series on the diverse history, cultures and contributions of the African continent and another series on topics of world history. The full program is viewable online at fitchburgstate.edu/alfa. ALFA is a lifelong learning institute that serves adult learners in Fitchburg and the surrounding communities. ALFA is sponsored by the School of Graduate, Online, and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State in collaboration with volunteer members of the community. It offers non-credit daytime classes, trips, special events, and a free speaker series.  Most courses run for five weeks with 1.5 hour class sessions for $45 (longer/shorter course rates are prorated accordingly) and students aged 90 or over may register free of charge. The fall courses include fitness classes, nature hikes, and group trips. See the complete course listing and register online at marketplace.fitchburgstate.edu/alfa.  ALFA is always on the lookout for new instructors and new subject matter to share with its students. Anyone with a specialty that they think others would be interested in should contact the program directors at alfa@fitchburgstate.edu for details about becoming an ALFA instructor. Also, direct any questions to the ALFA office at 978-665-3706, or email at alfa@fitchburgstate.edu.

Constitutional questions surrounding whether someone’s speech encouraging another person to take their own life is grounds for manslaughter will be among the issues debated by students in the American Moot Court Association’s Eastern Regional tournament, taking place Nov. 22 and 23 on the Fitchburg State University campus. The hypothetical case, inspired by actual cases that drew national attention, will be argued by 46 teams of students from 17 colleges and universities at the regional tournament. Winners will advance to the national tournament in January. Beyond the free speech issues of the case, the tournament will also have students arguing whether accessing an electronic device using its owner’s “face ID” without consent constitutes compelled self-incrimination, a 5th Amendment violation. Professor Paul I. Weizer of the university’s Economics, History and Political Science Department has coached the university’s Moot Court program since its inception. The program has a strong history of sending teams to advanced rounds of the national tournament, including high scores for students drafting legal briefs on the case before them. "Fitchburg State is honored to host the AMCA Eastern regional once again,” Professor Weizer said. “As we head towards our 25th year of moot court at Fitchburg State, it is always exciting to see how our students stack up against some of the best schools in the country.  We've had great success in this event. While the competition gets tougher every year, I'm confident our students will give a good account of themselves.” Alexia Perez-Lucas, majoring in political science with a concentration in international politics, was recruited to join Fitchburg State’s moot court team by Professor Weizer. “Based on my interests, he recommended that I get involved in Moot Court as a way to develop important skills and gain valuable experience in legal reasoning and public speaking,” she said. “Preparing for the Moot Court tournament was both challenging and rewarding. Preparation has involved extensive research, analyzing complex legal issues, and crafting persuasive arguments. The Fitchburg State team has spent hours reviewing cases, developing our strategies, and practicing oral presentations. Throughout this process, I gained a deeper understanding of legal processes and improved my ability to think critically on my feet.” Perez-Lucas, who is considering law school after graduating to further her passion for public service, said she is looking forward to representing Fitchburg State at the competition. “Knowing that we’ll be competing against some amazing teams from universities across the country is both inspiring and motivating,” she said. “I am eager to put everything I’ve learned into practice and showcase the hard work my team and I have put into preparing. At the same time, it’s a bit nerve-wracking, but I am confident that the experience will not only challenge me but also help me grow as a public speaker and critical thinker. I hope we make the university proud.”  Learn more about the tournament, and view the full text of this year’s case problem, at https://www.amcamootcourt.org/about.

Professor Erin Rehrig, chair of Fitchburg State University’s Biology and Chemistry Department, has been selected for inclusion in the American Association of State College and Universities (AASCU) Department Chair Leadership Institute to be held in January and August in Washington, D.C. The new program is designed for current department chairs who serve at state colleges and universities and aspire to be dynamic, strategic, and empathetic leaders. Institute participants will gain a national perspective on the importance of the department chair in serving the institutional mission, leading with an equity mindset, delivering value and ensuring student success.  Rehrig joined the Fitchburg State faculty in 2011 and has been a full professor since 2023. Fitchburg State President Donna Hodge recommended Rehrig for consideration in the competitive program, citing her collaborative spirit, creativity, and commitment to academic excellence. “I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to participate in this unique professional development opportunity,” Rehrig said. “I’m encouraged by Dr. Hodge’s optimism about higher education, her supportive leadership style, and ‘let’s get to work mentality. My colleagues in the Department of Biology and Chemistry are caring, seasoned educators and I am looking forward to learning strategies that can best support them and the evolving needs of our students.” “Dr. Rehrig’s leadership has already proven to be a tremendous asset to the School of Health and Natural Sciences,” President Hodge said. “She has fostered an environment of open dialogue and teamwork within her department, prioritizing inclusive collaboration that aligns with our institutional mission to serve a diverse student body. Her dedication to bringing out the best in her colleagues is matched by her focus on student success, both in and out of the classroom.” President Hodge cited the care and intentionality Rehrig brings to her role as an educator.   “She approaches each interaction with her students with empathy, ensuring that they are not only challenged academically but also supported holistically,” Hodge said. “This approach is especially vital in the fields of biology and chemistry, where student success is driven by the kind of thoughtful mentorship that Dr. Rehrig exemplifies.”

The Kendricken Memorial Lecture Series at Fitchburg State University will welcome artist Georgie Friedman for “Light, Video and Experiential Art” at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 20 in room G19 of Hammond Hall. The talk is free and open to the public. A reception will follow the talk. Georgie Friedman's work combines science and research with the metaphoric and emotional. She bases her projects on a range of powerful atmospheric, oceanic, and geologic conditions including: hurricanes, space weather, sea level rise, glacier retreat, and volcanic activity. She travels and films on location, then digitally reframes the natural elements utilizing site-specific video installation, single and multi-channel videos, sound, photographic series, and sculptural elements, all to construct new experiences for viewers. In this talk, Friedman will present the evolution, research, and process behind creating a selection of her works from the last 14 years. The Kendricken Memorial Lecture Series is hosted by the university’s Communications Media Department. This lecture is funded by generous support from the Kendricken family and is named for the 2013 alumnus who died in 2014. Kendricken is remembered as an extraordinary individual, whose prodigious energy fueled a boundless curiosity. Foremost among his many passions were film, music, and literature. The lecture series brings in artists whose work and spirit resonate with Kendricken’s legacy to the Fitchburg State community.