Renowned Author Speaks at UB

UB has a capstone course which all seniors must take to obtain a bachelor’s degree. The nature of the capstone class is different from any other classes one might take at UB. Like the final stone in an arch, it is meant to give stability and finality to the educational journey of the undergraduate. The capstone course is designed to provide students an opportunity to demonstrate interdisciplinary agility and mastery. There are several capstone courses taught each semester simultaneously, each with its own syllabus. This semester, the one book in common to every capstone class, was an award-winning, first novel by Nicole Mones entitled, Lost in Translation, not to be confused with the Bill Murray film of the same title. This book was chosen because it has been recognized as a work of multiple successes. It delivers effectively as a love story, a mystery, a cultural commentary, a revelation of history, and a literary work of art. It was the great fortune of students and faculty to have the author, Nicole Mones, come to UB for several workshops and a plenary engagement at the ABC, on November 10. Panelists included representatives from each class, who presented thematic analyses of the book. Ms. Mones fielded questions from panelist and the audience. She spoke with humility and confidence, about her history, the creative process, and the nature of cultural differences. Her enthusiasm for education and writing were contagious. Plenary MC, Professor Jeffrey Johnson invited her to come again to Bridgeport for presentations and workshops. She agreed.