The Newcomb College Institute is moving toward its first anniversary with Rebecca Mark, interim executive director, leading the way.

New and old, history and change. Rebecca Mark is balancing these issues in her role as interim executive director of the Newcomb College Institute, which is thriving in its first year and "constantly programming" on behalf of all women undergraduates at Tulane University.

"We are at a moment in the history of Tulane University when there has been great change. We are at a moment in the history of Tulane University when there has been some sadness associated with that change. There is also great potential here," Mark told members of the Tulane University Women's Association at a lecture on March 27.

"There has always been change. Part of Newcomb is that we weather change."

July 1 will mark the first anniversary of the institute. Newcomb College evolved into the institute as part of the university's Renewal Plan after Hurricane Katrina.

Speaking from the parlor of the institute's offices in the former Newcomb dean's house on campus, Mark outlined the dynamic and diverse programs underway to fulfill the institute's mission, which she defined as "not only to engage and help undergraduate women, but to carry on proudly the legacy of Newcomb College."

As audience members asked questions about the transition from college to institute and expressed concerns, Mark drew a broader picture of the changes that are occurring.

"My feeling about it is, we need to save New Orleans. We need to save Tulane University. As New Orleans goes, Tulane goes, and so does Newcomb," she said. "And it goes the other way -- there is not a Tulane University without Newcomb. I have a very strong feeling about the interconnectedness of everything."

Members of the Tulane University Women's Association and guests listen intently to a lecture on the mission and accomplishments of the Newcomb College Institute. (Photos by Paula Burch-Celentano)

With their work underwritten by funds endowed to Newcomb, Mark and her staff successfully presented an inaugural summit in February on "Educating Women for a World in Crisis" and initiated a popular PowerHouse Women speakers series. They also began weekly programs for students on topics ranging from careers to faculty research.

The institute also provides grants and fellowships for interdisciplinary faculty/student research projects and travel, as well as mentoring programs.

Plans also are firming up for a special celebration during commencement activities. The institute is sponsoring a Newcomb Under the Oaks Ceremony on May 18 that will continue the Newcomb daisy chain tradition and honor 50-year graduates returning to campus. In addition, the institute is starting a new program to honor "Newcomb Scholars," members of the 2007 class who have done exemplary work in their college careers and who will wear special stoles at University Commencement on May 19.

"Remember one thing," Mark said. "We are helping Tulane students who are coming in today. We are the advocates for women on campus."