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  FOCUS

  Bob Evancho (Editor)

  Great communities like Boise don't just happen - they are the result of hard work and dedication by many people pulling together for the common good. In this issue of FOCUS, we look at civic engagement at BSU.

  Fall 2004

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  FOCUS

  Bob Evancho (Editor)

  From research on preventing skin cancer to molecular level studies of Alzheimer’s disease, health-related research has emerged as a new area of excellence at Boise State University. Starting on Page 28, this issue of FOCUS looks at ideas being generated in Boise State labs with potential to impact human health. Professors and students are collaborating with regional medical centers, conducting joint projects with universities in Idaho and around the country, and winning multidisciplinary grants from top-tier funding agencies.

  Fall 2003

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  FOCUS

  Bob Evancho (Editor)

  Each day, undergraduate students at Boise State University head to campus laboratories, computer rooms or into the field to conduct cutting-edge research with professors in a wide range of subject areas. In the process, they're gaining invaluable experience and helping to reshape the university and its future. In this issue, we explore some of the reasons why undergraduate research is integral to the university and its mission, highlight a few of the many research collaborations, and feature an essay from a professor on what he gains from working with undergraduates. Cover by Bob McDiarmid.

  Spring 2003

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  FOCUS

  Bob Evancho (Editor)

  He’s been a politician, a university president and chair of Illinois’ Board of Higher Education. Bob Kustra (below) can now add Boise State president to the list. His appointment as the university’s sixth chief executive marks the start of a new era for Boise State. His experience will serve him well in facing the challenges of both a shrinking budget and an increase in demand for services. This issue looks at Kustra’s strengths as well as the legacy he inherits from outgoing President Charles Ruch. Cover photo by John Kelly.

  Summer 2003

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Boise state graduates ply their trades in virtually every sector of the Greater Boise work force. From the rank and file to the corporate higher-ups, alums play a vital role in keeping schools, businesses, health care, the arts and the community running smoothly. In this issue of FOCUS, we look at how their efforts help drive the local economy. Cover illustration by William Carman.

  Summer 2002

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Boise State observes its 70th anniversary this year, and to mark the occasion, the staff of FOCUS has selected 70 alumni of note to illustrate the depth and breadth of the achievements of those who have attended what began as Boise Junior College in 1932. From Nat Adams to Christian Zimmerman n (both of whom were decorated for heroism), our list contains physicians and filmmakers, educators and executives, athletes and authors, soldiers and scientists along with many others - all of them outstanding in their own way. Collage by Cris Shin.

  Spring 2002

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  In light of the 6oth anniversary of Pearl Harbor and the 9-11 terrorist attacks, Americans are reflecting on the role of patriotism and the military. For many in the Boise State community, military service was a duty and the horrors of war remained with them for the rest of their lives. In far-flung locations, some with exotic and unpronounceable names, they earned a new appreciation for the rights and freedoms we so often take for anted. In this issue of FOCUS, we look at a few of their stories.

  Winter 2002

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  FOCUS

  Bob Evancho (Editor)

  From prehistoric wonders to the latest research on violence-prone youth, Boise State authors are penning books, manuscripts and technical articles that not only influence research in their fields but also sway public opinion. In this issue of FOCUS, we take a look at the difficult writing process and how it can affect an author's perspective on life and his or her performance in the classroom. Cover illustration by William Carman.

  Fall 2002

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  The Treasure Valley is no longer the slow-paced, agriculture based society of years ago. As the area and its people settle into the 21st century, we are undergoing both subtle and dramatic changes that are working to redefine how we view ourselves and how we chart our futures. In this issue of FOCUS, we explore some of the ways that the Treasure Valley is changing, and look at how those changes are likely to affect life here in the century ahead. Cover graphic by John Kelly.

  Fall 2001

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Since Boise State's infancy, intercollegiate athletics has always been an integral part of the university. And many of the men and women who have guided the various sports programs are among the most revered in the school's history. But coaching college sports in the 21st century is a different game. How do today's coaches cope with the various pressures inherent in their jobs? In this issue of FOCUS we examine some of the issues facing today's coaches. Photo of Dan Hawkins by Katherine Jones/Idaho Statesman. Action shots and photos of Trisha Stevens and Rod Jensen by Chuck Scheer. Cover collage by Cris Shin.

  Winter 2001

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Nourished by its urban setting, Boise State University is branching out in new directions as one of a growing number of institutions dubbed "metropolitan universities." In this issue of FOCUS, we explore how Boise States ties to the capital city influence both campus and community life, what unique challenges and opportunities a metropolitan university such as ours confronts, and why a diverse population of students chooses to enroll here. Cover illustration by Bill Carman.

  Spring 2001

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  New sights. New smells. New people. New places. Travel involves all this and much more. In this issue of FOCUS, we explore the power of travel to change our perceptions of ourselves and the world, and look at some of the reasons why it is so important to leave home. We also introduce you to some Boise State travelers who have visited the world's far reaches, as well as international students who have brought their world to Boise. Cover collage by John Kelly.

  Summer 2001

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  There s little argument that new and daunting challenges confront today's kids as we enter the new millennium. Facing issues such as communicating with parents, school violence and cultural barriers, it's clear that kids at the start of the 21st century have plenty to think about. In this issue, FOCUS looks at some of those issues from the vantage point of teachers, parents, school administrators, law enforcement officials - and most important, the kids themselves. Chuck Sheer cover photo.

  Winter 2000

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  The "real world" means different things to different people. To many in the Boise State community, it refers to the "real education" students receive because of the university's location in the state capital as well as its proximity to corporate headquarters, high-tech businesses, cultural centers, major hospitals and a vast expanse of wilderness. But not everyone agrees that the university's "Real Education for the Real World" slogan is an apt depiction. In this issue, FOCUS looks at the slogan's message and highlights some programs that do provide real-world experiences. Cover illustration by Bill Carman.

  Spring 2000

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  There s no exact formula for creativity. We funnel together inspiration, perseverance, experience, emotions and serendipity -and sometimes we manage to distill the unwieldy mix into something new and wonderful. In this issue of FOCUS, we explore the creative spirit and how it manifests itself in our increasingly complex and busy world, where technology links us more closely than ever and time is often the most precious commodity of all. Bill Carmnn cover illustration.

  Summer 2000

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  In a country dominated by a two-party political system, Idaho's overwhelming Republican majority is just one more example of the state's rogue image. But residents – politicians and common folk alike - refuse to be defined by political affiliation alone. Examples of individual thought prevail in both parties. This issue of FOCUS examines how we got the way we are and how the state's political stance affects policy issues. Cover illustration by 2000 graduate Andy Stauffer.

  Fall 2000

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Leaders serve a variety of functions, from the governor who carries out his duties under the media glare to library board members who serve in anonymity. Despite the various levels at which they serve, they all share one trait- they are individuals who provide guidance for the rest of us. In this issue of FOCUS, we examine the concept of leadership and profile several leaders who are charting new paths in education, government or business.

  Fall 1999

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  The danger, the excitement, the sheer rebellion of it all. In this issue, FOCUS examines the outdoor adventure sports revolution that is booming in Boise and across the nation. As the Treasure Valley becomes more urbanized, it may become more important to find ways to escape. Our fast-paced, technology-driven lifestyles also may push us to seek recreation that is highly stimulating. And some pursuits may appear less intimidating as they become more popular; encouraging even more of us to give them a try. On the cover; rock climber Tracy Goff scales a cliff overlooking the Boise River near Diversion Dam. Cover photo by Glenn Oakley.

  Summer 1999

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Boise State celebrates 25 years as a university at a time it is undergoing rapid and significant change. In this issue, we take a look back at the battle to gain university status for Boise State, explore how the university's image is changing as we approach a new millennium, and offer some perspective on the top events that shaped the past quarter century. Cover design by Lisa Cheney-Jorgensen.

  Winter 1999

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  As in the story of the lion and the mouse, acts of charity and kindness often have a lifelong impact on both the recipient and the giver. In this issue of FOCUS, we look at volunteerism at Boise State and highlight the generosity and compassion of some members of the Boise State community- including stories about two groups of Boise State students who traveled to Latin America, providing assistance to a Mexican orphanage and an El Salvador hospital. Cover illustration by Boise State art professor William Carman.

  Spring 1999

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Many people dream about owning their own business. Some eventually will, such as BSU graduate Paul Wegner who, with his wife, Mary Jean, own Cucina di Paolo, a takeout gourmet lasagna shop in Boise. The market, say small business owners, is ripe for entrepreneurs who have a business plan in place. This issue of FOCUS introduces you to those who have taken the plunge into the world of self-employment with the help of the Idaho Small Business Development Center and BSU. Cover photo by Chuck Scheer.

  Summer 1998

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Gone is the simple one-room schoolhouse where the teacher cut the wood, built the fire and taught the students- all of whom likely came from similar backgrounds. Today's classrooms are filled with children from varied cultures and with different learning abilities. Schools are guiding students in skills once reserved strictly for parents. This issue of FOCUS illuminates the challenges facing educators and the progress they are making to meet these increasing demands. Chuck Scheer cover photo.

  Winter 1998

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Idaho politics reflect both tradition and change as the state hurtles toward a new century and new challenges. In this issue of FOCUS, we explore some of the issues that are shaping state government, from term limits and reapportionment to the growing influence of women lawmakers and the impact of the religious right. We also profile four politicos who have made their voices heard in the state and look at voter turnout and other state trends. Cover courtesy Hummel Architects.

  Fall 1998

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Most of us do not like to talk about death. There is nothing pleasing about the topic. But tucked away in our conscience is the knowledge that we will die - all of us. In this issue of FOCUS, we share the inspirational stories of some who have watched death take a young loved one. Their stories help us understand and cope with death's effect on us. Chuck Scheer cover photo.

  Spring 1998

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  FOCUS

  Larry Burke (Editor)

  Most of us have vivid memories of our childhood neighborhoods- the old lady next door with the robust flower garden, a favorite tree house, the corner market or the proverbial haunted house. Neighborhoods leave lasting impressions and affect us in ways we may not realize until we're adults and start putting down our own roots. Why are we drawn to certain neighborhoods? In this issue of FOCUS we explore the importance of these mini communities in our lives and how neighborhoods have changed over the years. Karen Woods cover illustration.

  Winter 1997