#certified intersection of art and science post

[mercuriallatina]

Hiiiiiiiii, friends.

I’ve gained a massive amount of new followers lately, so I figured I’d do another intro post!

Call me Lybera, I’ll be 25 in six days, and so clearly, I am a Cancerian. I have been a practicing witch and bruja for roughly seven years, and I became a certified meditation coach this year! I also identify as an intersectional feminist and a lesbian.

I’m deep in the closet, regarding my sexuality and my practices, and it probably will be that way for a long time or at least until I feel safe.

I work closely with Aphrodite and (as of recently) Circe!<3

Right now, I am studying at Raven Academy of Mystical Arts where I am in House Ocisano (herbal/healing house) and on the ordination track! 

I used to study political science (pre-law) and music (specifically opera performance) at my local university, but that was a different time when I still pretended to be straight. Lol. I mean, don’t get it twisted, I still got some pipes on me.

Thx for reading. <333

[itsnirmal888]

New Post has been published on https://pickstofit.com/top-15-coral-gables-fl-influencers-blogs-podcasts-youtubers-in-2020/

Top 15 Coral Gables (FL) Influencers, Blogs, Podcasts & Youtubers in 2020

1. Be Chic | Chic Parisien’s Bridal Blog

Coral Gables, Florida About Blog Chic Parisien’s Bridal blog features high end designer bridal and evening gowns. Also in Bridal Blogs Blog cpbride.com/blog Facebook fans 49.2K ⋅ Twitter followers 550 ⋅ Domain Authority 35ⓘ ⋅ View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

2. Elf | A digital creative agency News

About Blog News from Elf, a digital creative agency at the intersection of the arts and sciences. Frequency 2 posts / quarter Also in Business Blogs Blog elfproductions.com/news Facebook fans 42.1K ⋅ Twitter followers 7.8K ⋅ Instagram Followers 4.2K ⋅ Domain Authority 22ⓘ ⋅ View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

3. Siegfried Rivera | Florida Construction Lawyer Blog

About Blog At Siegfried Rivera, we have been practicing law with personalized professionalism since 1977. Florida Construction Lawyer Blog focuses on Construction Law, Construction Contracts, Construction Litigation, and Contractor Licensing, Construction lien, Firm News, and more. Frequency 2 posts / quarter Since May 2010 Also in Construction Law Blogs Blog floridaconstructionlawyerblo.. Domain Authority 17ⓘ ⋅ View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

4. Twin Love Concierge – Twin Pregnancy and Parenting guide

About Blog Twin Love Concierge is the no.1 twin pregnancy & parenting guide for multiples education, reviews, support, real life and more. For families of Twins eyes only! Frequency 1 post / week Also in Twin Pregnancy Blogs Blog twinloveconcierge.com/blog Facebook fans 10.4K ⋅ Twitter followers 1.4K ⋅ Instagram Followers 7.6K ⋅ Social Engagement 2ⓘ ⋅ Domain Authority 26ⓘ ⋅ Alexa Rank 2.6Mⓘ View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

5. Habify | Home Improvement, Kitchen Remodeling

About Blog At Habify our mission is to make high quality home improvement projects simple, enjoyable and affordable for homeowners everywhere. We simply want to be the #1 choice for residential remodeling services in every market that we serve. Also in Home Improvement Blogs Blog habify.com/blog Facebook fans 423 ⋅ Twitter followers 128 ⋅ Instagram Followers 486 ⋅ Social Engagement 2ⓘ ⋅ Domain Authority 17ⓘ ⋅ View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

6. Dr. Sarah Ravin | Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Psychotherapy

About Blog Dr. Sarah Ravin, the Florida Licensed Psychologist and trained scientist-practitioner. She shares the thoughts and opinions on Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Psychotherapy and also about psychological issues, with scientific research and clinical experience sprinkled in for good measure, so that it can help to bridge the gap between research and treatment. Frequency 1 post / month Also in Eating Disorder Blogs Blog blog.drsarahravin.com Domain Authority 29ⓘ ⋅ View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

7. Granny Nannies

About Blog Keep up-to-date on home care related topics with Granny Nannies blog. Check back weekly for new articles. Frequency 1 post / month Since Jan 2015 Also in Grandparent Blogs Blog blog.grannynannies.com Facebook fans 241 ⋅ Twitter followers 101 ⋅ Social Engagement 14 ⋅ Domain Authority 35 ⋅ Alexa Rank 1.8M View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

8. Aliette H. Carolan, PA.

About Blog Attorneys at the Law Offices of Aliette H. Carolan, PA. Focus on surrogacy, divorce & family law and mediation cases with offices in Miami Florida. With years of practice Aliette has focused on general family & matrimonial law including Reproductive Law Cases. She is also an active supporter of same sex equality and a certified family law mediator by Florida Supreme Court. Frequency 10 posts / year Also in Family Law Blogs Blog acarolanlaw.com/blog Twitter followers 128 ⋅ Domain Authority 26 ⋅ View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

9. The Catalyst – A PhRMA Blog

About Blog We are creating a place where we can share ideas, provide the perspective of America’s biopharmaceutical companies and, most importantly, listen to you. Frequency 10 posts / month Also in Pharma Blogs Blog catalyst.phrma.org Facebook fans 99.6K ⋅ Twitter followers 71.4K ⋅ Social Engagement 48 ⋅ Domain Authority 66 ⋅ Alexa Rank 234.1K View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

10. Coral Gables Love

About Blog The best things to do, eat, and shop in and around Coral Gables. Discover your city. Frequency 5 posts / month Also in Miami Blogs Blog coralgableslove.com Facebook fans 999 ⋅ Twitter followers 1.6K ⋅ Instagram Followers 20.3K ⋅ Domain Authority 23 ⋅ View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

11. LifeQuote

About Blog Insurance Tips and Financial Protection Stories. Tips on how to get affordable term life insurance from best life insurance companies and much more Frequency 1 post / week Since Aug 2017 Also in Life Insurance Blogs Blog lifequote.com/blog Facebook fans 4.9K ⋅ Twitter followers 2K ⋅ Social Engagement 2 ⋅ Domain Authority 30 ⋅ Alexa Rank 3.3M View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

12. The Campbell Law Group

About Blog The Campbell Law Group focuses on all aspects of business law for Miami and South Florida businesses. Frequency 4 posts / quarter Since Nov 2013 Also in Business Law Blogs Blog thecampbelllawgroup.com/blog Facebook fans 394 ⋅ Twitter followers 174 ⋅ Instagram Followers 2.6K ⋅ Domain Authority 23 ⋅ Alexa Rank 5.1M View Latest Posts ⋅Get Email Contact

Source link

[swissforextrading]

Jacques Lévy wins the 2018 Vautrin-Lud Prize

03.10.18 - Jacques Lévy has been awarded the 2018 Vautrin-Lud Prize, a geography award modeled on the Nobel Prize. Named Professor Emeritus at the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in 2017 after teaching at the school for 13 years, Lévy currently works for the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne and the Chôros association. He has just published a new book. The Vautrin-Lud Prize will be given to Jacques Lévy at a ceremony on Saturday, 6 October, as part of the International Geography Festival to be held in Saint-Dié-des-Vosges, France, on 5–7 October 2018. This prize, established in 1991, is known colloquially as the Nobel Prize for geography due to its strict selection criteria and its jury modeled after the Swedish awards. “I’m delighted to receive this prize. But along with me, it’s the dozens of other people I worked with over the years who are also being recognized. Our collaboration enabled me to carry out the most important work of my career,” says Lévy, whose main research areas include political spaces, cities, globalization, cartography and spatial justice. Born in Paris in 1952, Lévy contracted hepatitis at the age of 8 and was forced to spend long days in bed. He came across an atlas and, flipping through the pages, found himself transported to another world. Each map took him on an imaginary journey far from the boredom and confines of his bedroom. Looking back, he now believes that’s when the seeds of his calling as a geographer were planted. EspacesTemps magazine Lévy began studying at the Ecole Normale Supérieure in Cachan, France, in the early 1970s. He obtained a state-certified geography degree in 1974, and in 1975 founded a magazine called EspacesTemps (now EspacesTemps.net) with a group of classmates, including fellow geographer Christian Grataloup. “We wanted to break down the barriers between the social sciences, philosophy, geography and history,” says Lévy. He was also teaching geography at the time to high-school classes in the tough Paris suburb of Seine-Saint-Denis. This experience sparked an interest in teaching methods and the societal issues related to knowledge, and made him aware of the need in his field for a clear technical vocabulary. From 1984 to 1993, Lévy worked as a researcher at CNRS, where he completed his state-certified PhD. He served as a professor at the University of Reims from 1993 to 2004 and as a senior lecturer and then professor at France’s prestigious Sciences Po university from 1989 to 2007. He was appointed full professor of urban planning and geography at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in 2004, where he set up the Chôros Laboratory. EPFL awarded him the title of Professor Emeritus in 2017; that same year, he founded the Chôros association along with several colleagues, including some his former PhD students. Reading Kant for others Chôros is an independent research consortium of some 30 scientists mainly from Switzerland, France and Italy. It was set up as a “rhizome” – or an open, horizontal network – to promote civically minded science, as stated in its manifesto. The idea is to further the efforts of EPFL’s Chôros Laboratory, which was closed in 2017. “We want to bring a theoretical perspective to modern challenges like migration and justice. The goal is to give citizens and policymakers tools for framing their analyses so that they can feel freer in their decision-making. A city councilman doesn’t necessarily have time to read Kant, for example. But we do; we read Kant and other philosophers and can explain how their theories and ideas could be useful,” says Lévy. Today he teaches urban planning and political geography at the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne. While he was in Lausanne, Lévy managed the L’Espace en société book collection at Presses Polytechniques et Universitaires Romandes (PPUR). In 2017, he was nominated for the Grand Prix de l’Urbanisme, an urban planning award given by the French ministry of the environment. The many facets of Lévy’s work cannot be summarized easily. However, a look back at his most often-cited publications (published alone or with coauthors) points to a handful of key themes. His first few years of research were focused on developing a clear, common vocabulary for geography in French, which he then used to structure his future work. “French-speaking geographers had given up trying to develop concepts and to agree on a simple definition for what is a ‘place,’ for example. So I wanted to establish a clear definition for each term, like in mathematics,” says Lévy. His meticulous work led to the publication in 2003 of Dictionnaire de la geography et de l’espace des sociétés (Belin), written with fellow geographer Michel Lussault. A new, expanded version of the dictionary was released in 2013. Geography and societal issues Prior to that, Lévy published Le monde: espaces et systèmes (Les Presses de Sciences Po) in 1991, which has become a classic in his field. This book contains an initial discussion of globalization and what it means for our notions of space, linking geography to the social sciences. Another book, L'espace légitime. Sur la dimension géographique de la fonction politique (Les Presses de Sciences Po), came out in 1994 and stressed the importance of tying geography to broader societal issues, looking more specifically at cities and at maps of French electoral districts. With the publication of Le tournant géographique. Penser l'espace pour lire le monde (Belin) in 1999, he introduced a new conception of geography that calls on geographers to address factors such as cities, urban planning, political movements and the world we live in. In 2005, Lévy’s interests turned to how digital technology can be used to enhance geographical research. In A Cartographic Turn (EPFL Press), published in 2016, he encourages geographers to leverage the latest developments in computer science – especially data processing – and advocates a new kind of map: cartograms. Cartograms show the real weight of cities around the world and illustrate just how interconnected our globalized society really is. New software, new maps Lévy even developed an open-source software program for generating cartograms, called ScapeToad, in 2008, through a project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. “Globalization has made conventional 2D maps of our planet – where the space is dominated by the Earth’s vast oceans – irrelevant. Today, social networks and other virtual systems linking people together have defined new communities, much more so than countries’ borders. For instance, if Facebook generated a map of the world, it would depict our planet based solely on social relationships,” says Lévy. His most recent book, Théorie de la justice spatiale (Odile Jacob), came out on 3 October of this year. Written in association with Jean-Nicolas Fauchille and Ana Póvoas – two of his former EPFL PhD students and today members of Chôros – the book opens up a new field of research at the crossroads of geography and justice. It aims to deconstruct preconceived notions about abandoned suburban areas, the redistribution of public wealth and the role of “bobos” – yuppie-hipsters – in societal diversity. With Théorie de la justice spatiale, Lévy once again brings geography into contemporary society, which he analyses through the prism of several disciplines with his primary field as the backdrop. Art and science His latest realm of experimentation sits at the intersection of art and science. In 2009 and 2010 he led a research project at EPFL titled “Cosmographies: Sources et ressources pour la cartographie contemporaine,” which entailed linking up historical maps with those created by modern artists over the past 20 years. He posted two films on the internet portraying his research at EPFL: the first, Urbanité/s, in 2013 (available on vimeo); and the second, Thinking Places, in 2015 (available on vimeo). Thinking Places is a series of nine videos in which nine different researchers from his lab explore a city from a fresh perspective. “Modern artists inspire us geographers. For over a decade these artists have been exploring the concept of personal space, especially in their own movements. I want to enhance their work with a scientific approach and apply problem-solving techniques to the new issues they are bringing up,” says Lévy. He already plans to work with a choreographer to examine the languages of modern dance. * Press kit Testimonials “Geography has established itself as the urban science by combining three approaches: first, a theory of social space that goes beyond the empirical definition that the discipline assigned long ago to its objects and instead undertakes a methodical study of spatial expression in social relationships; second, greater dialogue, not just with history, our old companion, but with all the other social sciences, from sociology and economics to political science and anthropology; and third, a commitment inscribed in cities’ policies and achieved through research on urban planning and urban development. Jacques Lévy was the pioneer behind this shift and one of the central figures of its realization.” Philippe Descola, Collège de France, Paris, France “I’ve known Jacques Lévy for a long time, both professionally and as an individual. His extensive knowledge of modern and classical culture and the many languages he speaks have allowed him to grasp the societal diversity in today’s world. His research on cities and globalization are well-known here in Italy, where he is viewed as one of the most innovative and visionary geographers. The mapping experiments he carried out at EPFL’s Chôros lab are revolutionizing the role of maps in understanding mobility and societal dynamics. He is also a sensitive, caring, intelligent person. He can read into someone and, in a joking, light-hearted way, play on that to create a deep sense of empathy. I think winning the Vautrin-Lud Prize is an appropriate, well-deserved reward for the researcher and the individual who has understood our world and those who live in it.” Emanuela Casti, Geography Professor, Università degli Studi di Bergamo, Italy “It is a pleasure to learn that the Vautrin-Lud Prize for this year has been awarded to Jacques Lévy. I have known of Jacques and his original research and writing in urban and political geography for many years. He is a worthy recipient of this honor not least because of his dazzlingly innovative cartographic work and his role in encouraging new ideas about place and the production of knowledge. I have enjoyed working with Jacques on a number of occasions, so I can also attest to his skeptical wisdom tempered by wit and humanity. I can think of few other contemporary geographers who have had the impact on my own work that I would attribute to Jacques.” John Agnew, Professor of Geography and Italian, University of California, Los Angeles, USA “‘The world doesn’t have enemies, it has problems.’ I can’t even remember how many talks and lectures I’ve ended with this quote from Jacques – while showing Martians on the screen. This aphorism reflects his views on the emergence of a global society as well as an ongoing dialogue with all social sciences. Back in the 1970s, we debated these trends with a youthful rage, running up against old epistemological tenets for geography as well as other disciplines. That’s what prompted us to create EspacesTemps. One regret I don’t have in my career is not having always continued learning by holding things up against Jacques’s thoughts – written, spoken and debated. Thanks, Jacques.” Christian Grataloup, Geographer, Professor Emeritus, Université Paris Diderot, France “What has Jacques done for the field of geography? Provided proof that space – on every level, from our bodies to our world as a whole – is political and is a factor in power relations. What has Jacques done for the social sciences? Provided proof that you cannot understand modern societies without taking into account their spatial aspects – unfortunately, a common misconception. And what has Jacques done for geographers? Provided proof that a theoretical, conceptual debate, even if it’s heated, is essential for rejuvenating knowledge and opening up closed mindsets.” Michel Lussault, Geographer, Professor of Urban Studies, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, France “Jacques Lévy has left an important mark on our school. He fundamentally reshaped the relationship between geography and the social sciences – and more specifically between geography and architecture – by continually rethinking the notion of space, which is an essential concept for both disciplines. The need to always refer to the concept of a place rather than a space provided fertile ground for discussions with architects, in terms of teaching as well as research. ‘Think Space’ was even the name of one of his PhD seminar series that I was lucky enough to attend; each time I discovered a completely novel topic. Jacques’s main takeaway can be summarized in what he wrote in his important book, Le tournant géographique: ‘The spirit of a place – what makes a given space both similar to and different from another one – is not a dream or a die-hard spirituality, it exists. So you should learn to see it, tame it and reflect on it.’” Luca Ortelli, Architect, Full Professor and Head of the Construction and Conservation Laboratory (LCC), EPFL, Switzerland Sandrine Perroud http://actu.epfl.ch/news/jacques-levy-wins-the-2018-vautrin-lud-prize (Source of the original content)

[acascmarket-blog]

About HBNU

 Hebei North University is a government administrated multi-faculty university,  which offers Bachelor  Degree programs and Master  Degree programs.  The University was founded in September 2003 after approval from the Ministry  of Education. It is made up of three former provincially-administrated  institutions of higher learning in Zhangjiakou: Zhangjiakou Medical College (ZJKMC),  Zhangjiakou Teachers鈥?College (ZJKTC), Zhangjiakou Advanced Postsecondary Agronomy  School (ZJKAPAS). It's the only multi-faculty university in the north of Hebei Province.The former Zhangjiakou Medical College (ZJKMC) was upgraded to an undergraduate college  in 1982 and then successfully certified to award undergraduate degrees by the Ministry  of Education. The former Zhangjiakou Teachers College was founded in 1923, and the   former Zhangjiakou Advanced Postsecondary Agronomy School (ZJKAPAS) was founded in 1954.  All the three colleges have a long history and contribute greatly to talent discovery,  education, and social development.The main courses of the university focus on full-time undergraduate education together  with postgraduate, postsecondary and adult education. At present, there are 22,267  registered students.Up until now, the university has educated more than 100,000 students for the nation and more than 1500 overseas students from 70 countries.The university boasts of 12 colleges: Biomedical College, college of medicine, the first College of Clinical Medicine, the Second College of Clinical Medicine, College of Literature, College of Science, College of Agronomy and Horticulture, College of Veterinary Medicine, College of Foreign Languages and Adult Education. There also three teaching departments, two scientific research centers as well as eight affiliated teaching facilities of the University.The University possesses a strong teaching force with 1366 on staff. Its equipment for teaching and scientific research is valued at $13 million, 1.40 million volumes of books in the library, as well as two affiliated hospitals and five nonaffiliated hospitals with 3000 patient beds. The first affiliated hospital, situated at the intersection of Hebei Province, Shanxi Province, Beijing and Inner Mongolia, is a first-class hospital with an excellent environment and advanced infrastructure and equipment.The existing academic areas of the university cover ten academic classifications, which are medicine, agronomy, literature, pedagogy, law, management science, history, economics, science, and engineering, belonging to 76 academic areas of undergraduate and postsecondary specialized schooling. Clinical medicine is a traditional and specialized academic area. Laboratory medicine, medical information management, and information system were first set up among other universities in Hebei province, so also was forensic medicine among the first in universities of Hebei province.Graduates of the University are appreciated by their employers all the time, and the schools quality has been approved of by the society. Now, the employment rate for medical graduates of Hebei North is highly ranked compared to other universities, while the employment rate of laboratory medicine undergraduates is now 100% and the supply of all agronomy graduates falls short on demand.After many years of development, we possess numerous superior academic areas, such as pathology and pathophysiology, human anatomy, histology and embryology, pharmacology, clinical laboratory test diagnostics, mathematics, computer application, Chinese literature and linguistics, animal and plant reproduction, and veterinary science. These courses have a strong influence in Hebei province, and even in the whole country. The papers published in ''Science Citation Index'' have been increasing year by year and the ability to blaze new trails has been raised in the university. Pathology, pathophysiology, human anatomy, histology and embryology, pharmacology, etiology, crop cultivation and plowing, internal medicine, preventive veterinary, ancient Chinese literature and basic mathematics are key academic areas in the university. Among those, we also offer Master's degrees in pathophysiology, human anatomy, histology and embryology, pharmacology, microbiology, and immunology.Pathophysiology and Experimental diagnostics are two provincial elite courses. Pathophysiological department of the university takes the lead in the country conducting lymphatic microcirculation investigation in vivo, of which physiological and pathological investigation in lymphatic microcirculation is characteristic in Hebei province, with its research achievements being internationally recognized and receiving provincial awards several times.The staff of the University actively investigates and examines new teaching methods to improving students鈥?ability, and has been applying them and receiving better results. According to the philosophy of education that is to Broadening Knowledge, Enforcing Basic Knowledge, Improving Ability and Raising Quality of life, the syllabi have been revised; the ratio of compulsory courses to elective courses has been adjusted and the content of quality education has been increased. In the University, the designated elite courses and provincial renowned courses have been constructed. After the necessary investments and implementation of this policy, not only were twenty-five courses selected as the university's elite courses, but also the quality of teaching staff has improved with Experimental Diagnostics and Pathophysiology being the two provincial elite courses.At present, the university possesses eleven research institutions, which are Pharmaceuticals, Lymph Microcirculation, Immunology, Psychiatry and Psychology, Medical Imaging, Food-science, Animal Husbandry, Economics, Culture Resource and Property, Applied Chemistry, Art Studies and Design research institutions. All these institutions play important roles in social development.The university attaches great importance to its textbook editing. In the recent years, lots of professors held the post of chief editor for many textbooks, such as Pharmacology, Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, which was organized by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health. Many of our textbooks, i.e. our Pharmacology textbook, have received national prizes.The university possesses a strong teaching force, with 223 professors and 327 associate professors, while engaging more than 80 distinguished scholars from home and abroad as well as honorable professors or part-time professors. Among our teachers are 30 provincial-managed excellent experts, government sponsored experts and middle-aged or young experts with prominent achievements. Professor Zhangjing, the only winner of the First National University and College Excellent Teaching Prize, was elected outstanding contributing expert in Zhangjiakou, and Niu Chunyu and Zhang Danshen were selected provincial excellent talents.In recent years, the university has been increasing its investments in teaching and research infrastructure. The campus Internet, Medical Testing Center, DNA Testing Center, Multi-media classrooms, frequency modulation and foreign language broadcasting station have been set up. In the library, there are 2922 kinds of journals, electronic reading rooms, documents disk checking system and more than ten kinds of databases, including PQDD, Spinger, and Link.The university owns more than 236 practical bases with excellent condition for teaching practice. Among them, the First Affiliated Hospital the largest and most comprehensive department in Hebei, Shanxi and Mongolia Interchange, with advanced equipment, high-level clinics, medical treatment, teaching, research, prevention, and rehabilitation.At present, three campuses have been constructed and put into use. The east campus covers 1.14 million square meters of teaching and office complexes with 4000 students. In 2007 the west campus had 300 million RMB worth of investment put into it.The University has reinforced its cooperation with foreign higher learning institutions. Up to date, many scholars from institutions in America, Canada, Australia, Japan and other countries have been invited as guest professors in the university from time to time, while schooling cooperation agreements between the university and some Universities in Germany, Australia, Mongolia and other countries have been reached. Lots of teachers have been sent overseas to study and gain experience, so the overall knowledge standard of the teaching staff has been rising, and our university has benefited greatly.The Journals of Hebei North University i.e. Hebei North University Journal, Neurology and Pharmacology Academic Journal and Hebei North University Newspaper are in publication and distribution nationwide.In this modern era, the teaching and management system have been reformed and strengthened. At the same time, all amenities and infrastructures have been improved. By a strategic plan placed on graduate education, there is an actively developing postgraduate education that adapts to social needs, serving the local economy, reinforcing science construction and improving teaching quality. The leadership and staff are doing their best to build the university into a modern and open multi-faculty university and a symbol that represents hard work and determination. We believe that our vigorous multi-faculty university will one day be the best of its kind in the north of China.China has become one of the most popular destinations for international students who want to study abroad because of its long history and exciting culture. In 2012, more than 320,000 students from over 180 countries came to China to study for either degree or non-degree programs. Studying in China is an excellent opportunity to experience China's unique blend of ancient and modern civilization, as well as its scenic beauty and bustling nightlife. Considering the size of China's territory, there are a tremendous variety of climates, cultures, and landscapes. At the northeast of the country is Harbin, a city where you can enjoy the ice festival and ski on the mountains. If that鈥檚 too cold for you, then head south to the tropical beach paradise of Hainan Island and kick back in the sunshine.Following rapid economic development over the last 30 years, Chinese cities now boast of eye-catching works of modern architecture - from the towering skyscrapers of Shanghai to Beijing's Olympic Bird's Nest - in addition to impressive ancient structures like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. China's 5000 years of history has promoted the endless amount of tourist attractions, while natural wonders of breathtaking beauty are also scattered about the country. It is convenient and inexpensive to get around in China, all cities have buses and taxis, and larger cities have modern subway systems. Airplane or train can reach every city. China's high-speed railway reaches a maximum speed of over 300 km/h and provides beds as well as dining services.Studying and living in China is cheaper than studying and living in European countries, the U.S., Japan, South Korea and many other countries. Food and other commodities in China are as affordable as it gets. A good pair of jeans sells for 10-20 U.S. dollars; the bus fare only 15 cents, and a subway ticket in Beijing only 30 cents, everything is more than affordable in China.Even in other parts of Asia studying is not cheap. Japan boasts high living expenses soaring up to 1800 dollars a month, while South Korea is one of the world's five most expensive countries for foreign residents.China has been the world's fastest growing country for the past 30 years even during the financial crisis; China's economic growth has maintained a level of 8%, a pace unthinkable in other countries. China's GDP recently surpassed Japan's, the world's top 500 companies are doing business in China, with many choosing to base their Asia-Pacific headquarters in the bustling Chinese cities like Shanghai and Beijing.The current rise of China has made it very clear that people who can speak Chinese and have firsthand experience of living in China have the upper hand. China serves as a huge market for multinational corporations, and employers are well aware that a real understanding of China, Chinese culture, and Chinese people.China is striving to build more world-class universities, and investing heavily in higher education. Aside from China's unique Chinese language, calligraphy, martial arts and other cultural subjects, Chinese degree programs in majors such as engineering, science, medicine, economics and trade, MBA as well as finance are highly revered. As for those who don't know any Chinese, many universities offer degree programs taught in English, so you can earn your degree while learning the most widely spoken language in the world.Most developed countries recognize the academic qualifications awarded by Chinese universities. The Chinese government has signed an agreement on mutual recognition of academic qualifications with some countries including the United States, Britain, France, Japan and 65 other countries and regions.You'll run into unique cultures as you travel to different parts of China, but everyday life, believe it or not, will be just as new and fulfilling. Living and interacting with local Chinese and immersing yourself in Chinese society will provide you with a new way of visualizing the world and giving you the kind of insight that just doesn't come from textbooks.

[mrmarknewman]

From Manager to Leader: How to Transform the Way You Coordinate Volunteers

Guest post by Clay Boggess

We’ve all had those jobs where bosses are managers, rather than leaders. The difference in our effectiveness and happiness on the job is remarkable. Leadership inspires continued effort and growth, maximizing the potential of each employee, while management breeds stagnation and complacency, or worse.

This same dichotomy is present in volunteer management as well. Volunteer managers may find themselves frustrated by attrition, disengagement or even a lack of opportunities to get volunteers involved. Volunteer leaders, however, keep their finger on the pulse of their teams and convert frustration into energy. Leaders motivate teams through tough times while keeping their organization’s mission front-and-center.

Managers and leaders will invariably encounter the same situations, but the differences in mindset and behaviors are what distinguish them from each other. Learn how you can strive to be a volunteer leader (even if your title says something else!).

Volunteer Leaders are Inspired

When resources are low and costs are high, it is the energy inspired by leadership that elevates a volunteer project to something that makes a cultural and financial difference in a community.

Professional fundraiser Simone Joyaux, Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE), outlines a number of important leadership qualities in her book, ”Strategic Fund Development”. One of the “top functions” of a leader is to motivate others. Joyaux urges leaders in any setting to “Encourage commitment, not just compliance, by engaging the collective beliefs of people in your organization and its mission.”

As the adage goes, you can’t give what you don’t have. Whether you’re a grassroots volunteer organizer or a seasoned professional volunteer manager, your peers will look to you to set the tone, manage expectations, and provide the inspiration for days, weeks, or months of hard work. That means your personal engagement with your organization’s mission is a priceless component in engaging your volunteers.

The Association of Fundraising Professionals, whose scope of work often intersects with volunteer leadership, offers six value propositions for fundraising leaders — many of which translate seamlessly into the volunteer context. Two of these — being the “conscience of mission” and “catalyst of impact” — are key to providing the inspiration your team needs to thrive.

Simply put, you not only need to be aware of the mission, vision, values, and goals of your volunteer program and organization, but you also must use that sense of purpose to ignite a team of other volunteers by casting a vision of what will happen if you successfully meet your goals.

Seek out inspiration for yourself so that you can readily share with and empower others. Make it a goal to meet with key community stakeholders regularly to assess what volunteer-related needs they encounter. Ask them what they want their neighborhood to look like in five years. Then, share these visions with your team and other volunteers. When the going gets tough, your peers will look to the vision you cast and the stories of impact you consistently share to keep them going.

Volunteer Leaders Stay Connected to Community

Which brings me to my next point. Volunteer organizations often serve large geographies, and as a result, have to recruit and engage volunteers from dramatically different communities in order to meet the demands of their organization or project.

Volunteer managers will approach their job by using only the resources provided to them. Volunteer leaders will paint a picture of connectivity between volunteers, their networks, and the community at large. Effective leaders will transform by example, leveraging their own network that extends beyond the neighborhood or organization. If you’re invested in the mission and committed to being an inspired leader, utilizing your personal connections will naturally follow as you pave the way as an ambassador of your volunteer efforts.

Much as development professionals use their personal networks in cultivating committed donors through fundraising, volunteer leaders can use their networks to help build lists for volunteer projects and recruitment. These can include personal connections at work, church, or other community groups, as well as local businesses and restaurants of which you’re a patron. Even your social media followers can be valuable connections to catapult your volunteerism efforts to the next level of success.

Good volunteers leaders know that connections beyond those directly resulting in volunteers, donations. or service opportunities can be valuable assets in their own right. Make it a practice to consider all connections and how someone’s network might be able to indirectly support your project or organization’s goals. The best volunteer practices involve creatively using resources — such as in-kind donations — as incentives to create and enhance engagement in the form of recognition and demonstrations of gratitude for exceedingly impressive commitment.

Volunteer Leaders Communicate

The model of communication in western society hasn’t changed very much over the past century. The fundamentals of the communication process are virtually immutable, and hold true in nearly all environments, from medicine to business to — you guessed it — volunteer leadership.

Leaders across the for-profit and nonprofit world are probably familiar with the “Shannon and Weaver Model of Communication” that emerged in the 1940s. The best leaders, especially those working with volunteers, should keep this model top of mind and pay close attention to one key piece: noise.

Noise comes in the form of homework, meals, work, caregiving, and wrangling busy schedules. It can also come in the form of unexpected personal stress, health issues, and even unexpected car trouble. From the day-to-day to the unexpected, you and your team will face distractions (or noise) from every direction, making it easy to lose sight of the mission and goals of your volunteer engagement campaign.

Nevertheless, as a leader, and even as a support volunteer, the responsibility rests with you to contend with the noise and continuously provide clear, focused, and meaningful communication to your team. Volunteer programs need leaders who are committed to communicating to overcome these obstacles so that the good work they do is executed in a timely, effective, and organized fashion.

Katie Douthwaite Wolf is an author for top business and professional development hubs like Forbes, BusinessWeek, and The Muse. Her management career helped her develop a keen understanding of what intentional communication that generates results looks like. Her tips on communicating confidently, clearly, and with execution and expectations are key components of getting your message across in a quick meeting or through an email.

If you want to go from managing a volunteer group to leading them, consider these tips that will help your communication slice through the noise and stick with your team:

Have a mission moment: give your team the inspiration they need with a thirty-second anecdote about a problem your organization’s volunteer efforts has solved in the past or will solve this year.

Give praise: inspiration isn’t just about vision; it’s about lauding your team in the present. Call out best practices and provide validation as a leader.

Communicate milestones: let your team know when you’ve reached 25%, 50%, and, especially, 100% completion on a project. Updates like these help volunteers gauge effectiveness and urgency.

Give clear directives: don’t leave them questioning what to do next. Like Wolf said, people look to their leader for answers, not more questions. If more neighborhoods need canvassing or brochures need distributing, ask for volunteers to step up.

Keep a timeline: Working in a time-bound situation will help your team maintain energy if they know a deadline is approaching. As the project manager, your job is to keep the tasks on track and prioritize what work needs to get done.

Communication for effective leadership can be just as much a science as an art. Don’t be afraid to draw out a message map to ensure you cover all key points. If you’re utilizing written communication, use the tips above as headers to help organize information. Keep it short, but say what needs to be said.

And while all these tips about the information you put out are valuable, the most important aspect of being a communicative and effective leader is your willingness to receive feedback. Take another look at that communication model; the messages your team sends back are key to continued and open dialogue. Listening helps you solve problems in a way that strengthens your team and allows you to get more done for your community. If someone has a question or concern, hear them out, and make sure they feel heard.

It goes without saying that volunteer leaders aren’t made in a day; it takes intentional practice and commitment to develop these habits and implement them on your team. The results, however, are worth the work and investment. Take time to find ways to elevate your management to leadership, and you and your community will reap great rewards.

  Author Bio: Clay Boggess has been designing fundraising programs for elementary, middle, and high school groups throughout the U.S. since 1999. He works with administrators, teachers, as well as outside support entities such as Parent Teacher Associations (PTA’s). Clay is a Senior Consultant at Big Fundraising Ideas.

from Engaging Volunteers http://ift.tt/2r3clq6

[hottytoddynews]

Northwest Mississippi Community College’s Division of Continuing Education will offer some new and exciting classes during the spring semester to get your creative juices flowing. All classes will meet on the Senatobia campus unless otherwise noted.

Quilting with T-Shirts: Have you ever wanted to make a quilt from some of your (or your child’s) favorite t-shirts but don’t even know how to begin? Have you seen someone else’s quilts and wished you knew how to do that?

Come participate in this class and learn step by step as we go, to make a wonderful keepsake t-shirt quilt. All you need to be able to do is sew a straight stitch and you’re set to go.

And if you don’t have a sewing machine, no worries, you can rent one for the class. We have removed all of the obstacles for you so that at the end of this four-week class you will have learned everything necessary to complete your beautiful heirloom.

The fee listed for this class covers all class instruction and fabric to complete the quilt top. Fabric for the binding and backing may be purchased separately. Sewing machine rental is on a first-come basis and rents for $20 for the class.

The class will be taught on Thursdays from 5-7 p.m., Feb. 2 -23. The deadline to register is Jan. 26. The fee for the class is $120. Classes will be taught at Cotton Treasures in downtown Senatobia.

Welding 101: Do you want to learn a new skill that will have both practical uses and allow you to make beautiful works of art? If so, Welding 101 would be the perfect class for you.

In this class students will learn the basics of welding so that they can have enough experience to fix anything metal around the house that has been broken. Students will learn how to weld with a MIG welder and how to use an oxyacetylene torch to cut and mold metal.

The class will be making a table base and a flower that students can take home with them or give as a gift to someone special. The class promises to be full of fun, and students will acquire a lifelong skill that no one can take away.

The class will meet on Saturdays, Feb. 11- April 8, from 8-11 a.m. The deadline to register is Feb. 2. The fee for the class is $135. The class will meet in the Mechanical Technology Building.

Welding 201: Stick welding could be the challenge you’re looking for. In this class students will learn how to use a shielded metal arc welding machine, how to weld with oxy-fuel, and make beautiful works of art.

Welding 201 will go into more detailed welding; students will have the option to choose which of the three skills above they want to focus more on.

This should be a very fun course where students have the ability to choose what they want to learn.

The class will meet on Saturdays, Feb. 11- April 8, from noon – 3 p.m. The deadline to register is Feb. 2. The fee for the class is $135. The class will meet in the Mechanical Technology Building.

Natural Responses in Mixed Media: Join mixed media artist Dana Finimore for creative fun as you explore your response to time spent in the outdoors.

This exciting course addresses creative ways of depicting nature by utilizing a more expressive approach. Students will begin making art based on their individual responses to the natural environment. The first class session will include time spent outdoors, so students should wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

Working from a variety of materials and techniques such as studio demonstrations, discussions, and an on-site exploration, students will learn to become more responsive in their own process by learning to listen to their creative intuition.

This class looks at nature and landscape from a more responsive point of view, versus laboring over an ultra-realistic rendering of the subject. Various approaches you may take include unique combinations of collage, drawing, painting, and mixed media. There will also be discussion on structuring of composition, how color can affect meaning, and abstract expressionism.

Open to all skill levels. All materials and supplies are provided. Students may wish to bring extra paper, brushes, or their own favorite art supplies.

The class will be held on two Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Feb. 18 and 25. The fee for the class is $140, and the deadline to register is Feb. 9. The class will be held in the Art Building.

Knitting in the Round: Have you learned to knit in the past but want a refresher? Do you know the basics but want to take your knitting to the next level? Then, this is the class for you. We will learn basic increases and decreases while learning to knit in the round to make a simple hat.

Students will need one skein of worsted weight yarn (200 yards or more) and a set of size US 7 double pointed needles.

The class will be held on Tuesdays from 5 -7 p.m., Feb. 21 – March 7 in the basement of the Administration Building. The fee for the class is $50, and the deadline to register is Feb. 14.

Upholstery: Re-upholstering furniture might be the answer for a fresh look in your home. Learn the basics of upholstery – the skills, materials, tools, and tricks of the trade. The first class will consist of discussing fabrics, tools and supplies needed for your project.

Students will be required to bring a small piece of furniture to work on. They will learn how to cut fabric, how to attach it to the furniture, and how to attach trim.

Note: Students will be required to bring and take home their piece of furniture each class.

The class will be held on Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., Feb. 23- March 30 in the A.P. Fatherree Building. The fee for the class is $135, and the deadline to register is Feb. 16.

Pistol Course (two sessions available) : This is a course designed to provide basic handgun training to students. It will focus on the knowledge, skills, and attitude required for basic handgun competency. Specific topics will include gun safety, handling the gun, cleaning, storage, ammunition, marksmanship, responsibilities, carry options, and the laws concerning handguns.

This course includes “live” shooting at a local range. Students may bring their own firearm and ammunition. However, if needed, a firearm will be available upon request.

Students will receive all course materials and a Mississippi Certified Firearms Training Program certificate upon completion of the class.

*There are two sessions available. The class will meet on Saturday, Feb. 25 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Feb. 16 registration deadline) or Saturday, April 29, from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. (April 20 registration deadline). The fee for the class is $100. The class will meet in the Math and Science Building, Room 108.

Try SCUBA (two sessions available): How about spending an hour or two of your time seeing what it feels like to be a scuba diver? We will begin with a short classroom orientation on scuba skills, underwater sign language, equalizing and breathing techniques. Then we will head to the pool for some hands-on experience as a scuba diver. Each participant will be able to don the scuba equipment and swim and play underwater under the supervision of PADI OWSI Saralynn Turner, and PADI OWSI Pat Nelson.

In order to participate in scuba diving you must complete a medical health statement, and in some cases you may be required to seek permission from your personal physician in order to participate. It is also important for you to have a reasonable degree of comfort in water too deep to stand up in. Candidates should have the ability to swim in water over their head and tread water. Healthy lungs are essential; we request that our students be non-smokers. Class is open to anyone 8 years of age or older.

For more information, contact Pat Nelson at pnelson@northwestms.edu or 662-292-1124 or visit http://ift.tt/2jwuAzw.

The class will be held at WellWorX, located inside of JW Fitness at 6161 Shelby Oaks Drive, Memphis, one block from the intersection of I-40 and Sycamore View.

*There are two sessions available. The class will meet on Saturday, Feb. 25 from 9 a.m.- noon (Feb. 20 registration deadline) or Saturday, March 25, from 9 a.m.- noon. (March 20 registration deadline). The fee for the class is $45.

Warm Glass for Cool People: In this four-week class students will learn to design and make unique fused glass creations, from the basics of scoring and stacking to slumping glass into bowls, dishes, dichroic jewelry, Christmas ornaments and much more.

This year we will also work with crushed glass to create a frit painting as well as use some great new jewelry molds to make matching earring and pendant sets.

Whether you are new to glass fusing or have attended a class before, join us for a great opportunity to make creative gifts for the holidays.

The class will be held on Thursdays from 6 -8 p.m., March 2-30 in the Art Building. The fee for the class is $100, and the deadline to register is Feb. 23.

Courtesy of Northwest Mississippi Community College.

For questions or comments, email hottytoddynews@gmail.com.

The post Welding and Scuba Diving Among Non-Credit Classes Offered This Spring at Northwest appeared first on HottyToddy.com.