1. A prayer for the victims, families and congregation of the Sikh Temple

Dear colleagues, students and friends of Marquette University,

Like so many of you, I was deeply saddened when I learned about the profound suffering and tragic events that unfolded in Oak Creek, Wis., yesterday at the congregation of the Sikh Temple. It is at our most challenging and tragic hours that we must turn towards our God and to each other as a community to gain strength and comfort.

Late yesterday evening, we sadly learned that this senseless tragedy hit extremely close to home. Mr. Satwant Kaleka, the president of the Sikh Temple, died from gunshot wounds he suffered when the gunman opened fire. He is the father of two Marquette alumni. I encourage all of you to please pray for the Kaleka family, along with all of the victims, families and congregation of the Sikh Temple. We have opened our Chapel of the Holy Family for quiet prayer all day until 4:30 p.m. I also encourage you to pray with us as a community by reading our special prayer for the Sikh Temple victims online.

As our prayer reads, "May our spirit of respect, tolerance, civility and unity be strengthened as we come together this day." It is of paramount importance that we live this civility each day in a spirit of respect and understanding with all of our sisters and brothers. Thank you for your continued support.

God Bless,

Father Pilarz

Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J.
President

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2. University's assessment website receives national recognition

The National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment has chosen the Assessment at Marquette website to be featured on the NILOA website as an example of innovative and transparent online communication of student learning outcomes assessment. The university's reaffirmation of accreditation process is ongoing, with a site visit by Marquette's accrediting agency, the Higher Learning Commission, expected in the fall 2013 or spring 2014 semester.

The Assessment at Marquette website was recognized by NILOA for the amount of assessment information accessible to both internal and external audiences. The Student Learning Assessment Policy outlines assessment principles, responsibilities, supporting offices, learning outcomes, assessment plans, assessment highlights, and assessment reports for every major and each academic and co-curricular unit.

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3. Aug. 8 "On the Issues" will discuss new Law School Poll results

The results of the latest Law School Poll will be discussed at "On the Issues with Mike Gousha," Wednesday, Aug. 8, from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. in Eckstein Hall. The poll is being released one week before the Republican primary in the race for Wisconsin's open U.S. Senate seat, and will also feature the latest numbers in the Wisconsin presidential contest.

Running throughout the year, the Marquette University Law School Poll provides a comprehensive, independent survey of voter attitudes in Wisconsin. It is the largest independent polling project in state history. Monthly polls measure voter attitudes toward the 2012 presidential and U.S. Senate elections; citizen reaction to current state policy debates and recall elections; and a wide range of opinions among Wisconsin voters.

Register online.

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4. Register for New Colleagues' Convocation, Aug. 20

Employees hired since Aug. 22, 2011, should register for New Colleagues' Convocation, sponsored by the Office of Mission and Ministry, the Office of the Provost and the Office of the Executive Vice President. Formerly called New Folks' Convocation, the event will be held Monday, Aug. 20.

This annual, university-wide orientation seeks to introduce new employees to a clearer understanding of the Catholic and Jesuit tradition that characterizes and animates Marquette. New employees received invitations via campus mail in June, and should register via University Special Events.

The event will begin in the AMU, Monaghan Ballroom, at 8:15 a.m. with registration and a continental breakfast, and will conclude with a wine and cheese reception at the Jesuit Residence at 3 p.m. For additional information, contact the Office of Mission and Ministry at 8-1794.

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5. Celebration for Father Naus will be held Tuesday, Aug. 28

A birthday and retirement celebration will be held for Rev. John Naus, S.J., Tuesday, Aug. 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event's location on campus is still being determined. Watch News Briefs for additional information. Guests should RSVP to Annette Conrad, associate director of the AMU.

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6. CTL hosting Summer Institute in advance of 2012-13 academic year

The Center for Teaching and Learning will host a two-day Summer Institute to support faculty as they prepare for the upcoming academic year. The faculty development workshop will take place Wednesday, Aug. 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Thursday, Aug. 16, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Raynor Memorial Libraries, Beaumier Suites B and C.

The workshop will offer a broad range of sessions designed to raise awareness of subjects that are particularly useful at the beginning of the semester. The event will also include a poster and information session presented by twenty different campus representatives focusing on the experience, background and challenges faced by Marquette students.

The workshop is presented in cooperation with the Office of Academic Affairs and the Division of Student Affairs. Register online for this free event.

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7. AMUW Fall Book Club will be held Aug. 23

The Association of Marquette University Women will host its annual Fall Book Club Thursday, Aug. 23, at 7 p.m. in Raynor Memorial Libraries, Beaumier Suites. All faculty and staff are invited to join AMUW for an evening of conversation with Darin Strauss, author of Half a Life, the book selected for this year's First Year Reading Program.

Register online. Contact Libby Gard, Advancement associate, at 8-8440 or email AMUW for additional information. This event is free and open to the public.

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8. Rec Center closed next week for annual maintenance

The Helfaer Recreation Center will be closed for annual maintenance and cleaning from Saturday, Aug. 11 to Sunday, Aug. 19. The Rec Plex will be open and available to Rec Center patrons. Rec Plex hours can be found online.

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