Please let your students know that spring 2025 scholarship applications are available now through the Campus Application Portal for Scholarships (CAPS). Students may apply for spring 2025 scholarships until Sunday, January 12, 2025.

Buffalo State's Learning, Engagement, and Development Services (LEADS) office is accepting donations for the U.S. Marine Corps' 2024 Toys for Tots campaign. Please bring new, unwrapped toys to the donation boxes located outside the LEADS office in Buckham Hall A100. We will collect toys now through Thursday, December 12. Donation boxes will be available from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The mission of the Toys for Tots program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November, and December each year and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted. The objectives of Toys for Tots are to help needy children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation's most valuable natural resources our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to better communities in the future.

LEADS is once again proud to support this worthy cause. Last year, we collected about 100 toys. Let's see if we can beat this mark! For more information, please contact LEADS senior contract manager Rob Skutnik, 878-6137; or administrative assistant Lenore McLaurin, 878-5607.

Thanks for your support!

The Chemistry Department will host a graduate student seminar, "Vitreous Humor Analysis for the Detection of Xenobiotics via Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry," presented by Grace Poleto, a graduate student in the M.S. forensic science program, on Thursday, November 14, during Bengal Pause (12:15-1:30 p.m.) in Science and Mathematics Complex 173. Coffee and donuts will be served.

Abstract
Vitreous humor, the gelatinous fluid that comprises 80 percent of the human eye, plays a crucial role in stabilizing the retina and maintaining biochemical homeostasis. This fluid has proved valuable as an alternative biological matrix for identifying xenobiotics, including illicit drugs, in forensic cases where other biological samples may not be available. Historically, quantifying xenobiotics in vitreous humor presented challenges because of limited analytical methods, but advances in liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) now allow for the detection of trace non-volatile drugs and their metabolites within complex matrices. In this seminar, Ms. Poleto will present two analyses: one involving benzodiazepines to establish a quantitative extraction method and another examining cocaine and its hydrolysates to compare concentrations with other biological fluids.

Please join the Biology Department and the Great Lakes Center for the seminar "New Dimensions of Cyanobacterial Genomics in the Era of Climate Change: Novel Ranges, Novel Metabolites, and the Need for Novel Solutions," presented by Katelyn Brown, biological sciences Ph.D. candidate at Bowling Green State University, today, November 18, at 3:00 p.m. in Science and Mathematics Complex 151. Attendees are welcome to enjoy coffee and cookies during the seminar.

Abstract
Climate change is driving expansion of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cHABs) through rising temperatures and increases in the frequency and intensity of storm events. These conditions are more favorable for cyanobacteria, allowing for longer bloom duration and growth over larger areas; however, warming temperatures have led to shifting distributions of cyanobacterial taxa that are typically regarded as "tropical" taxa. As these taxa become more prevalent at higher latitudes, we must be aware of the associated negative health impacts. Through genomic work, Ms. Brown and her colleagues have been able to detect the potential for previously undetected cyanotoxins in Kenya and have identified these same risks in samples from Ohio. Furthermore, they have found that several inland Ohio lakes harbor a variety of cyanobacteria and the genetic machinery to make several types of cyanotoxins. This work overall aims to understand cyanobacterial community processes and how genomics can be applied to characterizing emerging risks.

Please join the Biology Department and the Great Lakes Center for the seminar "New Dimensions of Cyanobacterial Genomics in the Era of Climate Change: Novel Ranges, Novel Metabolites, and the Need for Novel Solutions," presented by Katelyn Brown, biological sciences Ph.D. candidate at Bowling Green State University, on Monday, November 18, at 3:00 p.m. in Science and Mathematics Complex 151. Attendees are welcome to enjoy coffee and cookies during the seminar.

Abstract
Climate change is driving expansion of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cHABs) through rising temperatures and increases in the frequency and intensity of storm events. These conditions are more favorable for cyanobacteria, allowing for longer bloom duration and growth over larger areas; however, warming temperatures have led to shifting distributions of cyanobacterial taxa that are typically regarded as "tropical" taxa. As these taxa become more prevalent at higher latitudes, we must be aware of the associated negative health impacts. Through genomic work, Ms. Brown and her colleagues have been able to detect the potential for previously undetected cyanotoxins in Kenya and have identified these same risks in samples from Ohio. Furthermore, they have found that several inland Ohio lakes harbor a variety of cyanobacteria and the genetic machinery to make several types of cyanotoxins. This work overall aims to understand cyanobacterial community processes and how genomics can be applied to characterizing emerging risks.

Please tell students that the newly formed Poetry Club will meet on Thursday, November 14, at 12:30 p.m. in Ketchum Hall 302. The club is meant to be an inclusive group for anyone interested in poetry, as writers or readers. This week participants are asked to share a poem about hope or resistance. It can be something students have written themselves or something that is published. We will use these poems as inspiration to write something new. Details of the Poetry Club meeting can be found on Bengal Connect, and students can have their attendance reported to professors. Please contact Mary Beth Sullivan, lecturer in the College Writing Program, with questions. We hope to see you Thursday!

As we continue with this year's SEFA/United Way Campaign, we offer our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has generously contributed to our campaign in previous years and thus far for this year. With the campaign closing on December 6, we encourage you to get your donations in soon. Your support is truly appreciated and makes a significant impact in the communities we serve.

New This Year: Continuous Giving/Rollover Pledges!
We're happy to announce that last year's 26 payroll deduction pledges will automatically renew, making it easier than ever to continue supporting the agencies and initiatives that are most meaningful for you. Of course you may still adjust your pledge amount or your selected agencies through the e-pledge system. Every dollar pledged will directly contribute to those programs and individuals whose work relies on our collective support.

Special November Raffle Prize
To express our gratitude, we're thrilled to offer a special raffle prize this month! If you increase your donation by any amount from last year before Friday, November 22, you'll be entered to win two tickets to an upcoming performance at the Buffalo State Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall, generously donated by Andrew Binder, director of operations.

End-of-Campaign Grand Raffle Prizes
In addition to the November raffle, as always we're offering an exciting lineup of prizes at the end of the campaign on December 6, including the following:

• First prize: Sunday brunch for 10 people, donated by Interim President Durand
• Second prize: Reserved parking space, donated by Interim Vice President Krieger
• Third prize: Office pizza party for up to 12 people, donated by Interim Provost Wall
• Fourth prize: Bengal deck party with seasonal refreshments for 10 people at a fall 2025 football game, donated by Interim Vice President Brumfield
• Fifth prize: Two tickets to the annual Bengala Scholarship Gala, donated by Vice President Finnerty
• Sixth prize: Taco Tuesday lunch for up to 10 people, featuring a taco/nacho bar catered by Chartwells, donated by Vice President Bowen
• Seventh prize: $100 gift certificate to the Barnes & Noble at Buffalo State Bookstore, donated by bookstore manager Lynn Puma
• Eighth prize: Lunch for four at Campus House, donated by SEFA Campaign co-chairs Wendy Paterson and Maria Garrity

Every dollar makes a difference, and collectively, the Buffalo State campaign funds will be a tangible way for you to see how our contributions touch lives and strengthen our communities. Don't miss your chance to join us in this year's campaign. You can submit your pledge through the e-pledge system or by reaching out to your department's SEFA ambassador.

There are many ways for individuals to offer monetary support for many worthy causes, but by donating to 2024 SEFA/United Way Campaign, your personal dollars join millions of others to provide a consistent and reliable base of support for the work of the agencies served by United Way. Your contributions change lives.

Thank you from your SEFA co-chairs, Wendy Paterson and Maria Garrity.

The Buffalo State Health, Nutrition, and Dietetics Department and Social Work Department will host an interactive event, "The Dysfunction of Food: A Discussion with Kim Foster, Author of The Meth Lunches: Food and Longing in an American City," on Thursday, November 14, from noon to 2:00 p.m. in Newman Lecture Hall, Bulger Communication Center 215. This event is funded by Buffalo State's Grant Allocation Committee and the School of Professions and is free and open to the public.

Kim Foster is the James Beard Award-winning author of The Meth Lunches: Food and Longing in an American City. In her book, Ms. Foster analyzes the problem of hunger, delving into the intersectionality of systemic causes through a series of case studies interwoven with research. Ms. Foster will deliver an interactive lecture to Buffalo State and the wider community, challenging us to think differently about food and how to address the root causes of hunger.

Attendees can benefit from the presentation without reading Ms. Foster's book. Given that this lecture can be a good experiential learning opportunity to supplement your courses, we will provide reflection questions based on the event that you may use for class assignments or discussion posts. 

The next AI book club and work group meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 21, from 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. (Bengal Pause) in Bacon Hall 115 or via Microsoft Teams. Angela Thering, lecturer in the Higher Education Administration and Adult Education Department, will facilitate this special AI-focused session exploring The Worlds I See: Curiosity, Exploration, and Discovery at the Dawn of AI, by Fei-Fei Li. Join us to discuss the transformative potential of AI in education and share ideas for helping students engage with AI to enhance learning outcomes at Buffalo State.

This book takes readers on a journey through the transformative power of AI in fields like science, education, and creativity. Blending stories, research, and real-world examples, The Worlds I See explores AI's potential to deepen human exploration while raising ethical questions about its role in our lives. The book encourages educators and innovators to consider how AI might complement or challenge our humanity, inspiring thoughtful reflection on integrating AI meaningfully to expand our horizons in an AI-driven world.

Join your colleagues in person or virtually as we explore innovative ways to enhance teaching and learning at our institution through AI. Don't miss this opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and expand your professional tool kit.

Please contact Angela Thering with any questions or to request an Outlook invitation.

AI book club November 21 Teams meeting
Meeting ID: 235 401 112 544
Passcode: yta5jM

Sign up for payroll deduction for your Bengala 2025 tickets by Tuesday, December 31, and you could ride away on a Bengal Orange electric scooter!

To enter, please print and complete the form (PDF, 1.7 MB) and either deliver it or scan and email it to Bengala committee members Raquel Schmidt, associate dean of the School of Education, Bacon Hall 306; Carolyn Morris-Hunt, director of presidential events and protocol, Cleveland Hall 517; or Elizabeth Grady, director of development events, Cleveland Hall 312. The winner will be announced at Bengala 2025 (no need to be present to win).

Buffalo State Foundation Bengala 2025 is scheduled for Saturday, April 5, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. in E. H. Butler Library.

A portion of your ticket benefits Buffalo State student scholarships and financial aid. Join us for a campuswide celebration shining a light on all Buffalo State students. Enjoy a cocktail-style gala where you can share achievements with colleagues and connect with community and corporate partners. The highlight of the evening is the student showcase, where we hear directly from students and reaffirm our commitment to supporting their futures.

Don't miss this exciting opportunity to support Buffalo State students and have a chance to win a Bengal Orange electric scooter! Sign up for payroll deduction today.