Albright College students, in collaboration with the World Affairs Council of Berks County (WAC), the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) and the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) were exposed to the complexity of world politics and peacemaking at a Conflict Resolution Simulation in March.

Nine Albright students were trained by USIP, an independent federal agency, to serve as mediators, while 40 high school students from Reading, Boyertown, Exeter, Gov. Mifflin, Kutztown, Muhlenberg, Twin Valley and Wyomissing played the contenders. Presented with a fictitious scenario, the students worked together to fight for the interests of the rebels, refugees, mediators and governments they represented. Groups were given time to resolve the disagreement and reported their results for evaluation at a luncheon.

No matter what the solution, Jeff Helsing, a trainer with USIP, said the simulation was “a way of getting underneath the headlines of international politics.”

He explained to the students, “Successful negotiating is an exercise in questioning and listening, and distinguishing between people’s position and their real interests.”

The 30-member Albright Gospel Choir rocked the house during the finale of the Barry Manilow concert at Reading’s Sovereign Center in February.

As the Gospel Choir walked onto the stage and sang back-up to “Let Freedom Ring” and “Dancing in the Street,” a giant American flag was unveiled and served as the backdrop for the uplifting and energetic songs.

Ginette Sano ’04 said, “The excitement and joy of being part of such a large and successful event made me proud to be a member of the Albright Gospel Ensemble, as well as a member of the College community.”

Choir Director Brenda Ingram-Wallace, Ph.D., was equally excited. “We were very surprised yet elated to receive the invitation. The students worked diligently and pulled off a spectacular performance with only one week of rehearsals. Barry’s choir director was impressed with their ability to quickly pick up the harmonies.” She added, “It was a proud moment for both myself and Rev. Wallace as we watched the students confidently perform with Barry as if they were a regular part of the tour.”