Jonathan Smith
Staff Writer

Faculty members, University of La Verne employees and students gathered earlier this month at the Wilson Library to celebrate faculty’s recently published books, at an event sponsored by the Faculty Research Committee.

“I don’t know a better way of spending an afternoon than with faculty explaining what they are doing professionally,” said Robert Neher, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs.

The works covered a range of topics, from Professor of Religion Jonathan Reed’s “In Search of Paul,” to Associate Professor of English Jeffrey Kahan’s comic book inspired Caped Crusaders 101: Composition Through Comic Books.”

“The readings ... this year were outstanding,” said Al Clark, associate vice president of academic affairs, who oversaw the event. “There was a wonderful mix.”

Some books featured dealt more with history, while others seemed specifically written for the La Verne community. Harvey Good, professor of biology, presented his book “Snow Leopards: A La Verne College Family’s Experience in the Far North,” which he co-authored with his wife, Constance Good. The book illustrates, through journal entries, the Good family’s journey to Barrow, Ala., in the fall of 1975.

Some students said they found the program intriguing.

“I wasn’t aware of how many of our faculty members published books ... that are available worldwide,” said Megan Lomeli, a junior business major.
The program was well-received by attendees and gave ULV faculty a chance to commend each other.

“I thought it was a huge success,” said Linda Gordon, associate professor and associate librarian. “It brought together faculty from all colleges across the campus to celebrate their accomplishments.”

Jonathan Smith can be reached at jsmith11@ulv.edu.