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Social fraternities and sororities are recognized by the University's Office of Campus Life and make up approximately 8 percent of the student population. Fraternities and sororities include [[alpha Kappa Delta Phi]],[[Kappa Phi Lambda]], [[Iota Nu Delta]], [[Lambda Upsilon Lambda]], [[Nu Alpha Phi]], [[Alpha Sigma Phi]], [[Phi Iota Alpha]], [[Pi Lambda Phi]], [[Phi Kappa Psi]], [[Delta Chi]], [[Zeta Beta Tau]], [[Chi Phi]], [[Alpha Phi Delta]], [[Tau Alpha Upsilon]], [[Tau Epsilon Phi]], [[Tau Kappa Epsilon]], [[Alpha Chi Rho]], [[Alpha Epsilon Phi]], [[Alpha Xi Delta]], [[Alpha Phi]], [[Delta Phi Epsilon]], [[Sigma Beta Rho]], [[Sigma Delta Tau]] and [[Phi Sigma Sigma]].
Social fraternities and sororities are recognized by the University's Office of Campus Life and make up approximately 8 percent of the student population. Fraternities and sororities include [[alpha Kappa Delta Phi]],[[Kappa Phi Lambda]], [[Iota Nu Delta]], [[Lambda Upsilon Lambda]], [[Nu Alpha Phi]], [[Alpha Sigma Phi]], [[Phi Iota Alpha]], [[Pi Lambda Phi]], [[Phi Kappa Psi]], [[Delta Chi]], [[Zeta Beta Tau]], [[Chi Phi]], [[Alpha Phi Delta]], [[Tau Alpha Upsilon]], [[Tau Epsilon Phi]], [[Tau Kappa Epsilon]], [[Alpha Chi Rho]], [[Alpha Epsilon Phi]], [[Alpha Xi Delta]], [[Alpha Phi]], [[Delta Phi Epsilon]], [[Sigma Beta Rho]], [[Sigma Delta Tau]] and [[Phi Sigma Sigma]].


There are many prominent professional fraternities as well. Most recently the School of Management added , [[Alpha Kappa Psi]]. Others include [[Delta Sigma Pi]].
There are many prominent professional fraternities as well. Most recently the School of Management added[[Alpha Kappa Psi]]. Others include [[Delta Sigma Pi]].


== Economic Impact ==
== Economic Impact ==

Revision as of 21:46, 6 June 2007

Binghamton University
File:Binghamton Seal.gif
TypePublic
Established1946
Endowment$52 million (2005)
PresidentLois B. DeFleur
Academic staff
504
Undergraduates11,174
Postgraduates2,844
Location
Vestal
,
NY
,
USA
CampusSuburban, 887 acres (3.6 km²)
ColorsGreen and White
NicknameThe Bearcats
AffiliationsState University of New York
MascotBearcat
WebsiteBinghamton.edu
File:Campusoverlook.jpg
Overlooking center of campus.

Binghamton University, also known as the State University of New York at Binghamton, is a public university located in Vestal, New York. The school is the smallest of the four university centers in the SUNY system, with a total enrollment of more than 14,000 students. The Fiske Guide to Colleges has labeled Binghamton University, "The Premier Public University in the Northeast," a quote that has become prominent in the school's marketing. The school was founded in 1946 as Triple Cities College of Syracuse University, and became part of the State University of New York in 1950. Today, Binghamton has become the highest ranked public university in New York.[1] The university's mission focuses on the two areas of quality and accessibility (i.e. affordability), which is reflected in their consistently high marks in "value" rankings.

About Binghamton University

History

Binghamton University (BU) was established in 1946 as Triple Cities College to serve the needs of local veterans returning from World War II. Established in Endicott, New York, the college was a branch of Syracuse University. When the college was incorporated into the State University of New York (SUNY) in 1950, it was renamed Harpur College, in honor of Robert Harpur, a Colonial teacher and pioneer who settled in the Binghamton area. Of the four University Centers (Stony Brook, Albany, Buffalo and Binghamton), Binghamton was the first to join SUNY. In 1951, the college began an ambitious move to its current location in Vestal, New York. The 387-acre site was purchased from a local farmer, anticipating future growth for the school. Colonial Hall, the original building of the former campus, stands today as the Village of Endicott Visitor's Center. After Harpur was selected as one of the four university centers of SUNY in 1965, it was renamed State University of New York at Binghamton. As other schools were added, Harpur College retained its name as the liberal arts college core, and largest component, of the State University of New York at Binghamton. In 1992, the university adopted Binghamton University as its popular name; hence BU began replacing the commonly used nicknames of SUNY Binghamton and SUNY-B. Harpur College is still the largest of Binghamton University's constituent schools, with more than 60% undergraduate and graduate students.

Thomas J. Watson

Thomas J. Watson is an important figure in Binghamton's fabric. Having founded IBM in the greater Binghamton area, Watson viewed the region as an area of great potential. In the early 1940s he collaborated with a group of local leaders to initiate the creation of Triple Cities College (of Syracuse University), which would later become Harpur College, and finally Binghamton University. He donated land at and around the original IBM site in Endicott, NY, where the school called home for just a few years. The campus broke ground at its current location in Vestal, NY, in 1954. In 1967, the School of Advanced Technology was established -- the precursor to the Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science that was founded in 1983.

Today

The University
File:Academica.jpg
Academic A, School of Management

Binghamton University has grown to include roughly 120 buildings, some of which were recent additions from a $2.2 billion SUNY capital plan. New facilities include a housing complex, academic facilities, an indoor multipurpose Events Center to accommodate Bearcat athletic events and other activities, an addition to the student union and the partially completed Innovative Technologies Complex. In the works are the Binghamton University Downtown Center in downtown Binghamton scheduled to open for the fall 2007 semester, new outdoor athletic facilities, two new residential communities, renovations to the East Gym and the old University Union, an engineering building, a new science building (Science V), and a great deal of landscaping/campus upgrades.

Lois B. DeFleur is the fifth and current president of Binghamton University and has held the position since 1990.

The campus is spread over 887 acres (3.6 km²) just south of the Susquehanna River. It features a 190-acre (0.8 km²) Nature Preserve, a forest and wetland area that includes a six-acre (24,000 m²) pond that adjoins the campus.

There is also a $29 million University Downtown Center currently being constructed in downtown Binghamton. Once complete, the center will house the new school: the College of Community and Public Affairs.

The school's sports teams are called the Bearcats (formerly the Colonials). They participate in NCAA Division I athletics through the America East Conference.

Colleges and schools

Binghamton University is comprised of the following college and schools:

  • Harpur College of Arts and Sciences is the oldest and largest of Binghamton University’s schools. It is home to 7,433 undergraduates and 1,231 graduate students in 29 departments and 12 interdisciplinary degree programs in the humanities, natural and social sciences, and mathematics. Notable departments include the political science department, which was ranked 19th in the world by the journal Political Studies Review.[2], Anthropology, ranked 9th in the county, and also Historical Sociology, ranked 13th in the nation.
  • The College of Community and Public Affairs offers an undergraduate major in human development as well as graduate programs in social work and public administration. It was formed in July 2006 after a reorganization of its predecessor, the School of Education and Human Development. With 475 undergraduates and 301 graduate students, it is among Binghamton University’s smallest schools.[3]
  • The Decker School of Nursing was established in 1969. With 411 undergraduates and 74 graduate students, it is Binghamton University’s smallest school. Approximately 11 percent of Decker School students are male, compared to the national average of 8 percent.[4] The school offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees in nursing.
  • The School of Education was formed in July 2006 as part of the same reorganization that created the College of Community and Public Affairs. It offers master’s of science and doctoral degrees and is accredited by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (the only SUNY school to have this distinction).[5]
  • The School of Management is the most difficult undergraduate program to gain admission to at Binghamton University, and is touted as the most prestigious program on campus. Approximately two-thirds of SOM students come from the top 5 percent of their high school graduating class.[citation needed] The School of Management places graduates into top firms including all of the Big Four accounting firms (SOM is the #3 feeder to the Big Four [citation needed]). The SOM is also among the top ten business schools for pass rates on the CPA exam.[citation needed] Studying in the SOM is an interactive experience, with many internship opportunities off campus as well as the Zurack Trading Center (a New York Stock Exchange floor) on campus where students manage their own portfolios, and an entrepreneurship program that fosters ingenuity and creativity in students; it even funds the creation of real entrepreneurial endeavors.

SOM recently observed the addition of Alpha Kappa Psi, a professional business fraternity. AKPsi is the second business fraternity in the school, the first being Delta Sigma Pi.

  • Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science is one of the fastest growing schools on campus. Recent advancements include a move to the Innovative Technologies Complex by the Department of Bioengineering and Division of Research, newly renovated facilities and award-winning research programs such as for nano-packaging research. The new state budget includes funding for a $60 million science and engineering facility.[citation needed] New spaces in the library allow for engineering students to utilize their own high-tech lab space beginning in their Freshman year.

Residential communities

Residence halls at Binghamton University are grouped into seven communities patterned after the residential colleges of Oxford University. The apartment communities used to house graduate students, but now house undergraduates. Of the residential colleges, Dickinson Community and Newing College feature corridor-style double-occupancy rooms, while College-in-the-Woods mixes suites and double- and triple-occupancy rooms, Hinman College and Mountainview College (the newest of the colleges) are comprised exclusively of suites. Susquehanna Community and Hillside Community contain only apartments.

Community Themes
  • Dickinson: Named for Daniel Dickinson, an early settler of New York's Southern Tier. Buildings are named after prominent local figures, including founders of the university.
  • Hinman: Named for New York State Senator Harvey D. Hinman. Buildings are named after former New York State governors.
  • Newing: Buildings are named for Southern Tier towns and counties
  • College-In-The-Woods: Named for its location set into the university's nature preserve. Buildings are named after tribes of the Iroquois Confederacy.
  • Mountainview: Buildings are named after New York State mountains.
  • Susquehanna: Buildings are named for tributaries of the Susquehanna River, which flows through the city of Binghamton.
  • Hillside: Named for its location at the highest part of the BU campus. Halls are named for New York State parks.

Rankings and statistics

Rankings

  • 30th on US News and World Report's "Top 50 Public University" ranking[6]
  • 5th on Kiplinger's Personal Finance's "Top 100 Values" ranking
  • 1st on Kiplinger's Personal Finance's "Top 100 Values" ranking for out-of-state applicants
  • 74th on US News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges: National Universities: Top Schools" [7]
  • One of three recipients of the Senator Paul Simon Award for Internationalization along with Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.[8]
  • 19th in Chemistry[9]
  • 13th in Historical Sociology[10]
  • Business/Management is ranked in Business Week's top 40 business schools, in the top 10% percent of all business schools, Top 10 for CPA examination [11]
  • Top 5 Business Schools in New York State.[12]
  • 15th nationally in Political Science, 19th in the world[13]
  • 9th in Anthropology[14]

Admissions

  • Middle 50 percent SAT Score (Math + Verbal): 1190-1370, 1265 average [15]
  • Middle 50 percent of students' high school GPA: 91-95, 93 average. [citation needed]
  • Four-Year Graduation rate: 70 percent(Third highest among all public schools in New York according to the National Education Trust).[16]
  • Freshman Acceptance rate: 35%. As of Jan. 11th, Binghamton University was 23% ahead in applications compared to the same date in Jan. 2006. The Final admissions rate is anticipated to fall below 30%
  • Acceptance rate including transfers: 42% (see above)[17]
  • Selectivity rating is 93% (on a scale of 60-99).
  • Binghamton is the 5th most selective public university in the country. [citation needed]
  • For the Fall 2006 Semester, Binghamton University received over 22,000 applications for over 2,300 spots. [18]

Financing

  • Average Debt at Graduation: $14,734.[19]
  • Top 15 Lowest debt-load in the country[20]

Other Statistics

  • Retention Rate: 92%, tied for the highest in the SUNY system.[21]
  • Students who study abroad: 25 percent[22]
  • On average, Binghamton students score in the top 10% of all professional exams taken.[23]

Placement

  • After graduation: 40-50 percent of students will continue on to graduate school, while the remaining 50-60 percent go into the workforce.
  • Medical School Placement: 65-70 percent
  • School of Management ranked 21st in the nation for placement into MBA programs according to Business Week.
  • Law School Placement: 75-82 percent
  • Vet-School Placement: 100 percent
  • Optometry School Placement: 100 percent
  • Binghamton University is the number three feeder to the Big Four accounting firms, and number two to the largest of the four, PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Noteworthy research, programs and centers

Binghamton University is specifically designated an advanced research institution and has recently been declared a New York State Center of Excellence, which will help provide considerable funding for many of the University's research projects. The following are highlights of some of the research conducted at the University:

  • Philosophy, Interpretation, and Culture (PIC), founded in 1979 by philosophy professor Stephen David Ross, is a unique autonomous interdisciplinary program leading to MA and PhD degrees in philosophy. The program explicitly focuses on the issue of disciplinary boundaries and promotes discussion about intelligibility, legitimacy, and disciplinariness itself from a historical and institutional angle. Currently, 60-70 students are enrolled in PIC; 5-10 PhD degrees are granted each year. PIC is associated with the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies in Philosophy, Interpretation, and Culture (CPIC), which among other things encourages community involvement.
  • The Evolutionary Studies Program (EvoS) is one of the first programs in the country that explicitly seeks to apply evolutionary insights to all areas of inquiry, including the humanities.[citation needed] The program promotes traditional evolutionary studies in biology, but also has members who study such disciplines and topics as the arts, literature, laughter and education from evolutionary perspectives. The program is headed by biology and anthropology professor David Sloan Wilson.
  • Stirrings Still: The International Journal of Existential Literature was founded in 2003 by members of Binghamton University's English Department.

In addition, Binghamton faculty often develop cross-disciplinary connections that become permanent working relationships. As a result, many of these connections have been formalized through Binghamton University’s Center for Excellence, through organized research centers and institutes for advanced studies. These organizations offer equipment and expertise that may be accessed by faculty across the disciplines and by members of the community who need specialized services, and one of the University's most important links to the larger local, regional and global communities of which it is a vital part. The University's organized research centers include:

The University's institutes for advanced studies include:

Although not considered a research center, the Geographic Information System (GIS) Core Facility , located within the Department of Geography, is at the forefront of spatial analysis and social research.

More information about Binghamton University research can be found here.

Athletics

About BU Athletics

Binghamton University has been a member of the NCAA since near its inception to the SUNY system. Originally a Division III school, President Lois Defluer spear headed an aggressive campaign to become Division I. In 1999, Binghamton University completed that transition faster than any other school in history. Today, they are a member of the America East Conference. Alongside the transition to DI, the addition of the Events Center for basketball, track and tennis has bolstered the program. In 2007, a turf field for soccer and lacrosse, as well as a championship-capable baseball field, will be completed.

  • Binghamton's mascot is the Bearcat, formerly the Colonials prior to the transition to Division I.
  • The student section is organized into a group called the, BU ZOO. Binghamton's basketball team is known for consistently attracting the largest home crowds in the America East.
Rivalry

The Binghamton Bearcats' primary rival is the SUNY Albany Great Danes, who are sometimes called "The Big Purple Growl". This is largely because they are both members of the America East Confrence, as well as the SUNY system. Their geographic proximity has lead to the name, The I-88 Rivalry. Other rivals typically depend on the sport, but include: Cornell University, Boston University and University of Vermont

Recent Accomplishments
  • Rory Quiller won the 2007 Outdoor Track pole vault Championships with a new NCAA East Region and Binghamton University record (18' 1").
  • In Men's Crew, the Varsity Openweight Four place third place at the 2007 New York State Collegiate Championships. They finished close behind Dowling College, and Hobart College, and ahead of teams such as Vassar, Marist, and the Army crews.
  • Men's Lacrosse knocked off 6th ranked SUNY Albany at home on April 28, 2007. This was the schools largest upset and came on Senior Day.[24]
  • Advancing to the NCAA Tournament in both Men's and Women's Soccer, Tennis, Golf, Track, Wrestling, and more.
  • Rory Quiller posted a second place finish in the 2007 Indoor Track pole vault Championships (18' 1/2").
  • David Holmes became the first America East Conference Athlete to go to the NCAA swimming championships.
  • The Men's Soccer team advanced to the NCAA finals and posted the third highest average GPA in the country.
  • Binghamton University was the 2006 Runner-Up for the commissioner's cup, which measures the overall success of a school's program.
Binghamton Basketball

The Binghamton University Men's Basketball team has experienced many ups and downs throughout their Div. I history. Perhaps the program's biggest win was against ACC member, University of Miami in the winter of 2006. Incidentally the 2006-2007 season was the program's worst finish in the America East conference. Following a loss to Boston University in the first round of the 2007 America East Championships, head coach Al Walker (the only coach Binghamton has had in their Div. I history) was forced to step down. As of March 26th, Kevin Broadus, assistant coach for Georgetown University was announced to fill Walker's position.

  • Binghamton was selected to host the 2007-2008 America East Men's Basketball Championships for the 3rd time in 4 years.
Club Sports

Binghamton University offers participation in a number of club sports for all students. Club sports are student organized and are sponsored and funded by the Student Association. However, they are administered through the Department of Campus Recreational Services, which reports to the Division of Student Affairs. The clubs can proudly boast about the participation of talented athletes and generate interest amongst the students, with most clubs having many notable achievements. The Binghamton University Roller Hockey Club, for instance, won the Collegiate Roller Hockey League Division II National Championship in 2003, as well as consecutive regional championships from 2001-2003.

Several club sports fill voids in the roster of varsity sports. The major clubs in this niche are the Binghamton University Rugby Football Club (men's and women's), Binghamton University Crew team, and Field Hockey teams. The Rugby team recently moved to the Division I level and placed second in the Big Apple Classic in 2007. They are also one of the more formidable teams within their Division playing other D1 schools such as Cornell, Syracuse, and SUNY Buffalo. The team has many alumni that continue to play Rugby at many levels, with a recent graduate Jon "Weasel" Grasso being selected to play 7's Rugby with the Atlantis 7's in Prague. The Binghamton University Field Hockey Club recently won the New York State Championships for the year 2006. The Binghamton Crew team, though a club sport, actually competes at the varsity level against division 1 varsity crews. Recently they have won events the NY Metropolitan Championship Regatta, The Braxton Regatta, The Frostbite Regatta, Head of the Genesee, Head of the Fish, and their home race, the Busfield Regatta.

Facilities

Binghamton University Libraries

File:Stacks.JPG
The Glenn G. Bartle Library stacks.

The campus takes pride in its modern library system that currently provides access to a wide variety of print and digital resources, including over 2.3 million volumes; 41,985 journal holdings and 2.1 million microform, map and multimedia items. The Glenn G. Bartle Library, named after the University’s first president, contains collections in the humanities, social sciences, government documents and collections in mathematical and computer sciences. Additionally, Bartle Library houses the Fine Arts Collection (focusing on works relating to art, music, theater and cinema) and Special Collections (containing the internationally recognized Max Reinhardt Collection, as well as the Edwin A. Link and Marion Clayton Link Archives). The Science Library contains materials in all science and engineering disciplines, as well as a map collection.

The Libraries offer a wide variety and range of services including research consultation and assistance in person and electronically, a laptop lending program, customized instruction sessions and Library news and updates through a number of Blogs (online weblogs). The online gateway to collections is through infoLINK, the library catalog, metaLINK, which offers the ability to search across multiple resources and Grokker, a new service which categorizes and visualizes information in a topical map format for easy retrieval. Together these services enable Binghamton University Libraries to provide patrons access to information resources such as catalogs, reference databases, citation databases, subject gateways, and e-journals.

Quiet study space, including group study areas, is available throughout the Bartle and Science libraries. During the fall and spring semesters, Bartle Library is open 24 hours a day, from noon Sundays through 12:00 midnight Fridays and noon until midnight on Saturdays. The Library Annex@Conklin is open to the public Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – noon.

File:Sciencelibraryinformationcommons.jpg
The Science Library Information Commons.

Binghamton University Information Commons, located both in Bartle and the Science Library, provide access to a powerful selection of print and online resources, a vast array of application software and tools, and expert assistance to help with their use. The Information Commons is a computer-enhanced research environment that invites and attracts users to work collaboratively, use the wide range of resources available in the library, and obtain expert assistance. The Information Commons is a collaborative initiative between the libraries and computing services.

File:Informationcommons.JPG
The Glenn G. Bartle Library Information Commons.

Special Collections, located on the second floor of Bartle Library, houses rare books, manuscript and archival collections, sound recordings and the University Archives and is the location of the Bernard F. Huppe Reading Room and the Link Conference Room. The rare and archival collections include North American editions published prior to 1850, British imprints prior to 1800 and European imprints prior to 1750. Collections of note include the Edwin A. Link and Marion Clayton Link Collections, the Frances R. Conole Archive of Recorded Sounds, the Max Reinhardt Archive and Library, the William J. Haggerty Collection of French Colonial History, the Yi-t’ung and An-chi Lou Wang Research Collection on Chinese Culture.

The total Binghamton University Libraries collections include:

  • 2,313,597 volumes (including print volumes, government documents and electronic books)
  • 1,862,467 microfilms and microfiche
  • 41,985 journal holdings
  • 3,061 CD-ROMs
  • 119,980 maps
  • 2,866 videocassettes/DVDs
  • 118,510 sound recordings
  • 139 electronic databases

Anderson Center for the Performing Arts

This theater complex has three main stages: Watters Theater, seating 550; the Chamber Hall, seating 450; and the Osterhout Concert Theater, seating 1,200. The concert theater has the ability to become an open-air venue, with its movable, floor-to-ceiling glass windows that open up to a grassy hill. The Anderson Center has hosted world-class performers such as the Russian Symphony and Ballet, the Prague National Symphony and the Shakespearian Theater Company. In March 2006, an overflow house, filling all of the Anderson Center's theaters, was present to hear guest speaker Noam Chomsky.

University Art Museums

The University's art collection is housed more than one location, but all within the Fine Arts Building. The building's main-level gallery hosts various artifacts which belong to the Permanent Collection, though typically showcases student work on a rotating basis. The Permanent Collection in the basement level of the building showcases ancient art from Egypt, China and other locales. Lastly, the Elsie B. Rosefsky Gallery, just off the Grand Corridor, displays special exhibits and portfolios.

The Binghamton University Events Center

This new addition to campus is the area's largest venue for athletics, concerts fairs and more. Home court to the Binghamton Bearcat basketball teams, the facility seats about 7,000 people for games. For concerts, Commencement and other larger events, the Events Center can hold up to 10,000 people. Home site for the America East Conference Men's Basketball Championships in 2005 and 2006, the court hosted the women's championships for 2007. Major concerts already hosted at the Events Center have included Green Day, Bob Dylan, Incubus, Ludacris and Harry Connick Jr.,and The Grateful Dead.

Binghamton University Nature Preserve

Nature Preserve, Binghamton University, Vestal, NY

The university's Nature Preserve is a 190-acre plot of land on the southern end of campus. Students have actively worked to make sure the space remains untouched. The preserve features miles of maintained paths, a large lake, marsh areas, vernal pools, tall hills and even a hill-top meadow. A popular hang-out spot is the long wooden boardwalk constructed across one of the marshes, overlooking the lake.

- "The Squid and the Whale"- Prof. Bernard Berkman, played by Jeff Daniels, visits Binghamton University as a guest lecturer.

- "donttellryan.com" - This website featured a 24 hour a day live video feed of a student's dorm room (who was revealed to be a Binghamton University sophmore), set up as a prank. The website received literally millions of hits from countries all around the world.

- "The Daily Show" - In the November 27th 2006 episode, students Erica Fritz and Aaron Akaberi appeared in a satirical interview/short documentary addresses one student's unpopular, but well known quest to protest campus food provider, Sodexho, by going on hunger strike.

- "Pardon the Interruption" - In all episodes of PTI, a Binghamton University Bearcat can be seen on the side of the desk of co-host Tony Kornheiser, a Binghamton alum, and self proclaimed intramural sport master.

- Maus - The graphic novel contains a "Harpur College" banner in the ficitonal Art Spiegelman's bedroom. (Spiegelman is an alumnus of Harpur College).


Student Association

File:Salogobing.jpg
Student Association Logo

The Student Association, also known as the SA, bills itself as "an all encompassing organization that every single student is a member of as soon as they pay their tuition," [citation needed] and functions as Binghamton University's student government. Like the United States federal government, the Student Association is comprised of independent executive, legislative, and judicial branches, with members of the executive and legislative branches elected by popular vote of the student body. Members of the judiciary, known as the Judicial Board, are nominated by the Student Association president and confirmed by the Student Assembly, the legislative branch. Members of the Student Assembly, the legislative branch, are elected by the different communities, with off campus students falling into one off campus community. The association is funded by a mandatory activity fee which must be approved by regular student referendums.

The Student Association retains the sole right to charter and recognize groups on campus, other than social fraternities and sororities. Currently, the SA recognizes approximately 160 student organizations.[citation needed]

The executive branch for the 2007-2008 academic year is:

  • President: David Bass
  • Executive Vice President: Joe Danko
  • Vice President for Finance: Chris Powell
  • Vice President for Academic Affairs: Matt Landau
  • Vice President for Programming: Sandi Dube
  • Vice President for Multicultural Affairs: Rabeel Patoli
  • Director of Communications: David Belsky

Prominent Student Groups

Student groups provide a wide range of services, and many are entirely student-run with no faculty supervision or university funding.

Harpur's Ferry Volunteer Ambulance

Binghamton University students run the all-volunteer Harpur's Ferry Student Volunteer Ambulance Service, which was named New York State EMS Agency of the Year in 2005.[25] It was also named agency of the year at the 2005-2006 National Collegiate EMS Conference.[26] Harpur's Ferry is currently run by Chief Paul Meddaugh and Asst. Chiefs Jessica Martinez and Richard Blackley.

Binghamton Debate Team

One of the few student-run Speech and Debate teams on the east coast. Recently won the United States Military Academy's tournament at West Point and other tournaments at Columbia University. King's College, and Cornell University. They finished this 2007 season ranked number 2 in the country.

WHRW

WHRW, an FM radio station staffed by students and community members, is one of the few remaining free-format college and community FM radio stations left in the United States.[citation needed]

BTV

Students also operate BTV, a cable television station available on campus and open to any student interested. Shows typically cary from year to year, and include the Brook Snyder Show, BU Confessions, and other religious and cultural programming.

Publications

Binghamton University students also publish several journals, newspapers, chapbook series, and other periodicals, including Pipe Dream, the Binghamton Review, The Element, the Binghamton Prospect Magazine, The Spark, Asian Outlook, Han Perspective, The Arc of a Cry, and The Cartographer Electric!.

OCC Transport

Bus transportation on campus and in local neighborhoods with a high density of students is provided by the completely student managed and driven OCC Transport, one of the few student-run bus services in the country.[citation needed]

A Cappella

Binghamton University is also home to several student a cappella musical groups, including The Binghamton Crosbys, who won the international championships in 2003, [27] and hold a record for the greatest number of appearances at the international championships. Their most recent appearance was the Spring of 2007. The Crosbys are also the oldest a cappella group at Binghamton University. Other groups include The Harpur Harpeggios ("The Pegs"--all female), The Binghamtonics ("The Tonics"--the first co-ed group), The Vibrations ("The Vibes"--oldies co-ed), Rhythm Method (1980s co-ed), Kaskeset (Jewish co-ed), Koinonia (Christian co-ed) and the newest addition, The TrebleMakers (alt-rock co-ed.)

Pappy Parker Players

The University is also the home of the non-chartered sketch and improvisational comedy group, The Pappy Parker Players, founded in 1992.

Greek Life

Social fraternities and sororities are recognized by the University's Office of Campus Life and make up approximately 8 percent of the student population. Fraternities and sororities include alpha Kappa Delta Phi,Kappa Phi Lambda, Iota Nu Delta, Lambda Upsilon Lambda, Nu Alpha Phi, Alpha Sigma Phi, Phi Iota Alpha, Pi Lambda Phi, Phi Kappa Psi, Delta Chi, Zeta Beta Tau, Chi Phi, Alpha Phi Delta, Tau Alpha Upsilon, Tau Epsilon Phi, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Alpha Chi Rho, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Alpha Xi Delta, Alpha Phi, Delta Phi Epsilon, Sigma Beta Rho, Sigma Delta Tau and Phi Sigma Sigma.

There are many prominent professional fraternities as well. Most recently the School of Management addedAlpha Kappa Psi. Others include Delta Sigma Pi.

Economic Impact

According to a 2006 report from the University’s Office of Institutional Research and Planning, Binghamton University faculty, staff, students and visitors spent more than $400 million in the 2004-05 fiscal year, creating an economic impact of about $700 million in Broome County and $894.5 million in New York State alone.

The University’s Office of Institutional Research and Planning, also found that:

  • For every dollar the state invests in the University, about $8 is returned to Greater Binghamton and New York State.
  • The presence of the University supports 11,900 full-time jobs in New York State, nearly 10,000 of which are in Broome County. The University employs about 1 in 10 residents in the Greater Binghamton area.
  • The University spent $44.3 million on construction projects in 2004-05, resulting in an economic impact of nearly $100 million for the state. Major construction projects are expected to continue.
  • Volunteer services provided by students are appraised at millions of dollars annually.

From the year 2000, the University's economic impact has increased by about 12 percent and is expected to continue growing substantially. It is also estimated that Binghamton alumni pay over $80 million in New York state income tax and over $40 million in sales tax.

Alma Mater

The university's alma mater, "In the Rolling Hills of Binghamton," was composed by David Engel '86, and is performed at the University's Commencement each May. The lyrics are:

"In the rolling hills of Binghamton, ’Neath everchanging skies, Where two gently flowing rivers meet, We form our cherished ties.

Together we spend these years, United in our aim. Through our bold pursuit of excellence, We proudly bear your name.

Refrain: Oh Binghamton, we carry thee With us for all our time And through us individually Forever may you shine. "

Alumni Association

The Binghamton University Alumni Association is nearly as old as the University itself. The Harpur College Alumni Association elected its first officers in 1951, following the first Commencement. As Harpur College grew and became a part of the State University of New York, the Alumni Association has grown and today serves as the umbrella organization for a growing number of alumni groups and activities.

The Association represents more than 90,000 alumni. It is a non-dues paying association and all alumni automatically become members upon graduation.[28]

Mission Statement

The Binghamton University Alumni Association exists to promote and coordinate alumni support with the purpose of strengthening the high-quality academic, research, and public service programs of the University.

Through its programming, the Association seeks to further the personal and professional development and growth of its members. As representatives of their alma mater, alumni are a concerned constituency who act as observers and trustees of the heritage and achievement of the University.

The Association serves the University by facilitating interaction between alumni and the students, faculty, staff, and administration. The Association, working as a partner with the University, encourages financial support for distinguished teaching programs, student scholarships, and general advancement of the University. The Association encourages all alumni to give their time and resources for the betterment of the University, to be proud advocates for the University, and to preserve the present value of their degrees. (Adopted by Long-Range Planning Committee 3/30/85; Amended 6/6/93)[29]

Notable alumni

References

  1. ^ "The Fiske Guides: One Hour College Finder", FiskeGuide.com, accessed August 8, 2006
  2. ^ "A Global Ranking of Political Science Departments", Political Studies Review, 2004 Vol 2 pp. 293-313
  3. ^ "College of Community and Public Affairs: Facts and Figures", ccpa.binghamton.edu, accessed October 30, 2006
  4. ^ "Decker’s male enrollment tops national average", Inside BU, February 10, 2005
  5. ^ "Teacher Education Accreditation Council: Members by Carnegie Classification", www.teac.org’’, accessed October 30, 2006
  6. ^ http://www.binghamton.edu/home/about/facts.html
  7. ^ http://www.usnews.com/usnews/edu/college/rankings/brief/t1natudoc_brief.php
  8. ^ http://www.binghamton.edu/home/about/facts.html
  9. ^ http://gradschool.binghamton.edu/ps/highlights.asp
  10. ^ http://gradschool.binghamton.edu/ps/highlights.asp
  11. ^ http://gradschool.binghamton.edu/ps/highlights.asp
  12. ^ http://gradschool.binghamton.edu/ps/highlights.asp
  13. ^ http://gradschool.binghamton.edu/ps/highlights.asp
  14. ^ http://gradschool.binghamton.edu/ps/highlights.asp
  15. ^ http://admissions.binghamton.edu/SUNYBinghamton.pdf
  16. ^ http://www.kiplinger.com/tools/colleges/pubcollege.php?sortby=INRANK04&orderby=flip&states%5B%5D=NY&myschool%5B%5D=none&outputby=table
  17. ^ http://www.kiplinger.com/tools/colleges/pubcollege.php?sortby=INRANK04&orderby=flip&states%5B%5D=NY&myschool%5B%5D=none&outputby=table
  18. ^ http://www.binghamton.edu/home/about/facts.html
  19. ^ http://www.kiplinger.com/tools/colleges/pubcollege.php?sortby=INRANK04&orderby=flip&states%5B%5D=NY&myschool%5B%5D=none&outputby=table
  20. ^ http://www.kiplinger.com/tools/colleges/pubcollege.php?sortby=INRANK04&orderby=flip&states%5B%5D=NY&myschool%5B%5D=none&outputby=table
  21. ^ http://apps.collegeboard.com/search/CollegeDetail.jsp?collegeId=3504&profileId=1
  22. ^ http://www.binghamton.edu/home/about/facts.html
  23. ^ http://www.binghamton.edu/home/about/facts.html
  24. ^ http://www.bubearcats.com/sports/mlacr/albany07.html
  25. ^ "Harpur's Ferry wins statewide honor", Inside BU, October 20, 2005.
  26. ^ "Harpur’s Ferry receives national recognition", Inside BU, March 2, 2006.
  27. ^ "International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella: 2003 Results", VarsityVocals.com, accessed August 9, 2006
  28. ^ http://alumni.binghamton.edu/aboutassn.html
  29. ^ http://alumni.binghamton.edu/aboutassn.html
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