Transformers toys provide key character lessons, researcher says
Lab Manager – Dec. 23
Parents looking for holiday gifts that instill character should check out the Transformer toys and DVDs, a University of Alabama researcher says. In a study to be printed in the spring of 2016, Dr. Peter Harms, assistant professor of management in the Culverhouse College of Commerce, says the Transformers franchise provides key lessons about leadership, teams, and the characteristics necessary to get ahead. “We were trying to have a little a fun in what is a traditionally very serious discipline,” Harms said. “Leaders are important individuals in organizations. Their decisions and the way they treat those around them can make or break the firms and teams they lead.
UA economist says there will be positive growth in jobs in 2016
Fox 6 (Birmingham) — Dec. 22
A University of Alabama economist says there will be positive growth when it comes to jobs in 2016. Ahmad Ijaz says 25,000 to 30,000 jobs will be added in Alabama in 2016. He came up with those numbers by looking at past economic trends in Alabama, as well as in other states. He believes most of these new jobs will be in service-related fields like hotel, fast-food, leisure and social assistance programs. He also foresees more manufacturing jobs coming to Alabama as well.
PNC Foundation awards University of Alabama grants
Tuscaloosa News – Dec. 23
The PNC Foundation has awarded $45,000 in grants to the University of Alabama to support early childhood education in the state and scholarships for UA students. UA will use PNC’s funding to support UA’s Child Development Resources programs and for scholarships awarded to students in UA’s Culverhouse College of Commerce and the College of Human Environmental Sciences. The foundation is part of the philanthropic and community outreach efforts of PNC Bank. “The PNC Foundation’s ongoing support of the University of Alabama with a giving emphasis on early childhood education makes PNC a wonderful corporate partner with the University,” said Bob Pierce, UA vice president for advancement. Students receiving the PNC Business Honors Scholarship are Chris Fort of Birmingham, Nick Schmitt of Fairhope and Tyler Hohbach of Ozark. The recipient of the PNC Early Childhood Scholarship is Maggie Chavez of Birmingham. The gift to Child Development Resources will fund training for early childhood educators and community events focused on early childhood education. CDR will expand a previous PNC workshop for child care providers in Tuscaloosa and three nearby counties.