Murray Hill Institute Newsletter
Spring 2008
Vol 5 No 2

Dear Friends,

As we approach the conclusion of another season in the life of Murray Hill Institute, we are happy to say, in the words of a well-known song, “It was a very good year.”

We opened our lecture season with Prof. Robert George of Princeton University speaking on Embryo Ethics: Justice and Nascent Human Life.  His presentation and insights sparked a very lively conversation among the 80 some guests during the Q&A's and thereafter in the reception.  The spring lecturer for the Culture and Core Beliefs lecture series was Prof. Alice Ramos of St. John’s University and a member of our Board.  Speaking on Art, Truth, and Morality, Alice helped the audience discover how necessary the aesthetic experience is for true human development and well-being.  There was no scarcity of food for thought.

Our Women in Media series hosted two outstanding speakers.  Joining us in November was Alice Rhee, Producer, NBC News & MSNBC.  Addressing the topic of Media Ethics:  Managing the Essential Relationship between Reporters and Their Sources, Alice illustrated through real-life stories how personal and professional integrity have guided her in reporting the news.  Our spring guest, in April, was Melanie Kirkpatrick, Deputy Editor of the Editorial Page of the Wall Street Journal. Melanie’s topic was Opinion Journalism:  Editorials, Op-Eds & Online.  Melanie brought the subject to life, peppering her presentation with examples drawn from her extensive background in journalism and her 28 years of experience at the Wall Street Journal.  Both speakers have given our Women in Media series a very high standard.

The speakers for the Evenings of Conversation for Young Professional Women were equally impressive.  In December, Arisleyda Maldonado, Financial Advisor for Merrill Lynch, spoke on Women and Wealth: Empowerment Through Work.  And in February, Denise Menelly, Managing Director and Global Head of Client Delivery at Citigroup, shared her thoughts about Women Helping Women Through Networking with a very attentive audience.  Ron Colombo, Associate Professor of Law at Hofstra University School of Law will conclude our series of talks on May 14 with his presentation entitled Business Ethics as Applied Natural Law.

Yes, it was a very good year, and we thank all our friends and those who participate in our programs.  You not only provide the support needed for us to continue the work of Murray Hill Institute, but you spur us on to reach higher in providing you with quality programs to help you be women capable of transforming culture.

On behalf of everyone at Murray Hill Institute, I extend our warmest regards to all of you.

Sincerely,
Kathleen McGarry
President