With the fall semester in full swing, the psychology department has unveiled a new major in the form of Behavioral Neuroscience.

The college’s newest major studies the functioning of the brain through investigating human behavior. By examining the physiology of the brain, students will achieve an in-depth understanding of neurons and the nervous system and their roles in cognition and behavior.

“Our hope is that the major will attract students who have an interest in understanding behavior from the focus of the brain and its supporting biochemical systems,” says Elizabeth Ossoff Ph.D., professor and chair of the psychology department. “The major provides career opportunities in laboratory research, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, physical therapy as well as other academic positions.”

Courses in the program include hands-on laboratory and directed research experiences for students to gain competency and skills within behavioral neuroscience, culminating in a senior capstone course. Course requirements include a wide array of psychology and biology courses as well as requirements in chemistry and mathematics.

“Neuroscience is only going to grow and continue to evolve,” explains psychology professor Adam Wenzel Ph.D., who specializes in sensation and the perception. “Neuroscience is really breaking down those walls and boundaries between the sciences of psychology and biology, and I believe students are can really benefit from this complete study of what makes us who we are.”

Junior Ashley Grillo ’20 has already declared her major as behavioral neuroscience. “The brain is such a complex machine that is responsible for how we perceive the world,” says Grillo. “Going into the new major, I hope to learn in-depth about various topics such as perception, neurological diseases, and what causes the mind to act the way it does.”

The college also offers a minor in neuroscience.

MANCHESTER, N.H. – Saint Anselm College announced the addition of men's and women's track & field as varsity sport offerings on Tuesday. Additionally, plans for an on-campus track & field complex were revealed, which will include an eight-lane track, synthetic turf field, lighting, spectator seating, and an amenities building with locker rooms. 

The brand-new Hawks track & field programs will participate in both the indoor and outdoor seasons, officially beginning competition within the Northeast-10 Conference effective in the 2023-24 academic year. 

Design and planning for the facility, which may be completed in phases, is already underway. The complex is also expected to be home to the Hawks men's and women's soccer teams, as well as a wide array of other College programming.

"Track & field will enhance the overall student-athlete experience and provide new opportunities for recruits to compete at the NCAA Division II level while immersed in a transformative educational experience," said Saint Anselm President Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D. "The addition of track & field at Saint Anselm is a key strategic initiative that will also drive ongoing athletics recruitment."

A national search will commence immediately for a Director of Track & Field/Head Coach, with the first track & field student-athletes enrolling at Saint Anselm in Fall 2023.

Saint Anselm will join many current NE10 institutions that sponsor track & field. Starting with the 2023-24 academic year, Saint Anselm will offer 23 NCAA Division II sports in total, an all-time high. 

"Athletic teams on the Hilltop have achieved unmatched levels of competitive success during recent years," remarked Director of Athletics Daron Montgomery. "We are confident that the College's track & field programs will strengthen our success in many ways and further elevate the brand and profile of Saint Anselm athletics."

NOTABLES

• Since 2018, Saint Anselm teams have reached the Elite Eight, Final Four, and played for two NCAA Division II national championships—earning a total of 23 NCAA post-season appearances.
• Based on current high school participation rates, track & field is the most popular sport for high-school aged girls while ranking second amongst boys.
• Prospective track & field student-athletes should email Daron Montgomery, Director of Athletics, or complete the following online recruiting questionnaires: WOMEN'S TRACK & FIELD, MEN'S TRACK AND FIELD
• Donor and naming opportunities are available for the track & field complex project. For more information regarding facility donor opportunities, contact Jim Flanagan, the Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer.

The Anselmian Abbey Players have presented a couple of performances already this semester and look forward to offering their One-Act Plays Nov. 19 and 20.