If you didn’t watch the Golden Globes Awards show last night, you missed a couple of BC moments. Now, who woulda thought that?

First, Amy Poehler ’93, who performed the opening monologue with Tina Fey, gave a shoutout to alma mater when, referring to the Showtime series about research into sexual practices in the Fifties and Sixties, she said, “Masters of Sex . . . is the degree I got from Boston College.” She then exchanges a high five with Tina. (It is late in the monologue, appearing at about 9:20 of the clip.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NT3uNSZpK7c

Later, Amy was named winner of best actress in a comedy series for her role in Parks and Recreation. Announcing her award and presenting it was fellow Eagle Chris O’Donnell ’92. A two-fer!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lpcyy3p2BjU&feature=youtu.be

Interestingly, BC posted the Poehler-O’Donnell on Facebook, but did not mention the earlier reference. Hmmmm. :)

Robin Fleming, professor and chair of History at BC, has been named a MacArthur Fellow for 2013. She is the first member of the University faculty to receive this distinguished honor.

The awards, from the MacArthur Foundation, have been known popularly as “genius” awards. They are awarded on the basis of anonymous nominations from leaders in the various fields represented. Recipients receive $625,000 over five years to use as they see fit.

MacArthur Foundation profile of Prof. Flemming. There is a brief, nice video of Prof. Fleming included.

This is another academic honor to add to the list of those received by BC faculty members. Congratulations, Prof. Fleming!

A small band of San Diego Eagles joined other interested citizens at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas Saturday morning to clean up the beach and areas close-by.

Instead of treading along the shoreline, the BC group tackled adjacent Cottonwood Creek, where cleanup organizers said the level of possible pollution and debris was “hard core.” Among the items found and turned in were paperback books, cigarette butts, styrofoam containers and pieces, and much plastic.

Pictured, from left: Mike Burke ’11, Brittany Lonero ’07, Francis Wray, and Lissa Tsu ’00. Taking the picture was Bill McDonald ’68.

Throughout the year, there will be more opportunities for local alumni to provide aid to their communities and neighbors. Join us!