Faculty and Staff Achievements, March 28, 2008

Publication

Bernie Possidente, professor of biology and director of the Neuroscience Program, is the author of a recent letter to the editor of Science magazine describing a fortuitous intersection of science and popular culture involving the acclaimed HBO series The Sopranos. Wrote Possidente, "Future critics of popular culture who look back on The Sopranos years from now may especially appreciate its relatively sophisticated treatment of genetic themes." Citing 20 episodes containing conversations that specifically mention genetics, Possidente wrote, "The Sopranos, therefore, may have already shaped the genetic literacy of millions of viewers." He closed by suggesting, "As The Sopranos takes its place in the history of American popular culture, its use of genetic dialogs may, in the long run, be recognized as one of its most revealing insights." The letter appeared in Science, Vol. 317, Aug. 3, 2007.

In the News

Bob Shorb, associate dean and director, Student Aid and Family Finance, was a source for a story titled "2 upstate banks leave student loan program" published March 21 in The Daily Gazette, describing the effect of the current credit crunch on the federal student loan program.

News of faculty and staff activities, achievements, performances, publications, and exhibitions is published regularly in Scope Online. Please send news items to awise@skidmore.edu for inclusion in the next edition.