From the Provost

Spring 2006

I am pleased to introduce another fine issue of Hofstra Horizons. Hofstra University continues its upward momentum by attracting the very best students. As the cover of this current issue of Horizons proudly claims, it is excellence in research and scholarship that promotes excellence in teaching. Hofstra's faculty members are distinguished contributors to their fields. The diversity of research undertaken by our faculty, and its timeliness, are two key contributors to Hofstra's fine reputation. And, in turn, it is this reputation that continues to attract an academically accomplished body of students to the University.

For example, I encourage you to read a compassionate and informative article by Corinne Kyriacou. Corinne's article on the far-reaching benefits of a volunteer program for seniors could not be timelier. The information she presents underscores the newly released results of a University of Chicago research project indicating that volunteer programs may improve the heart health of seniors.

Still, in another fascinating and time-relevant article, Julie Heath introduces us to the world of bird parental behavior. In this article you will learn the ways humans may be interfering with birds' natural parental drives, as well intervention methods that lead to conservation.

Inside this issue, you will also find an insightful article by Miguel-Angel Zapata on the work of renowned Chilean poet Nicanor Parra. A poet himself, Miguel-Angel analyzes the effectiveness and power of Parra's poetry, and why it is relevant across nationalities.

Ahmet Karagozolgu contributes a business-savvy article on financial derivatives in emerging markets in Korea and Turkey, where you will read how financial derivatives have evolved and how they are used as a tool to manage the impact of price increases and decreases in a fluctuating market.

And last, in keeping with Ahmet's article on trade markets, this issue highlights the University’s Financial Technology Center, a new simulated trading floor with 34 Bloomberg terminals, where students have access to cutting-edge technology.

As the articles in this issue clearly demonstrate, Hofstra faculty bring enthusiasm to their teaching as well as their scholarly pursuits. Congratulations to all contributors for their fine work, and continued success.

Sincerely,
Herman A. Berliner, Ph.D.
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs