Spring 2021 Scholars Forum Schedule
Scholars Forum Canceled
Monday, January 18
In observance of the Martin Luther King Junior Memorial
NCSU Libraries – Campus Conversations Project: Inauguration Day: Transitions of Power
Wednesday, January 20
7:00 – 8:00 PM
Trained student volunteers from the Campus Conversation Project will facilitate a discussion about the presidential inauguration and what it means to you. This session is for current NC State students. No prior preparation is required, but come prepared to respectfully listen and share. Space is limited, so please pre-register. Description of the topic: The 2021 Inauguration means different things to people. Some of the questions we’ll discuss include: what are you celebrating or concerned about regarding the inauguration? Despite partisan division, what core values do you think Americans fundamentally agree on? Do you have faith in our system of government to select leaders that will serve the people? If not, why? What can our leaders do to build that trust? Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Virtual Guided Tour of exhibitions at the Gregg Museum
Thursday, January 21
4:00 – 5:00 PM
“Walk through” current exhibitions at the Gregg Museum with a live guide from the museum staff, via Zoom. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Fermentology Mini-Seminars: The Story of Garum: Roman Fish Sauce in a Modern Context
Thursday, January 21
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Garum, an ancient Roman staple, was made by fermenting ungutted fish in the hot sun with salt. However, this notorious ingredient was transformed by Roman cooks and home-bakers with honey, herbs, and wines, and has many parallels with luxurious fish sauces used in 5-star restaurants today. In this presentation, Sally Grainger will talk through her experimentations with garum and differentiate ancient sauces (including rare Mediterranean survivals, namely colatura de alici and pissalat) from the modern forms in the east.Sally is a Roman food historian and experimental archaeologist. She has authored several books, including Cooking Apicus: Roman Recipes for Today and her latest The Story of Garum: Fermented Fish Sauce and Salted Fish in the Ancient World. Advance registration is required.You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
AV Geeks at the Hunt Library – Let’s Talk About Language
Friday January 22
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Facebook Live (visit A/V Geeks page at https://www.facebook.com/avgeeks prior to the event start time)
Join A/V Geeks founder and NC State alumnus Skip Elsheimer, and Mary Michaels Estrada, Lecturer in Foreign Languages and Literature at NC State, as they screen and discuss a selection of vintage educational films about speech, grammar, and the ways in which we learn to express ourselves. No registration is required.Utilize the Facebook Live link listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Volunteer Morning at the Well Fed Community Garden
Saturday, January 23
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
This is an in-person event and requires participants to adhere to NC State Covid guidelines.Join us for a refreshing morning of volunteer service at the nearby Well Fed Community Garden. If you enjoy being outside, working in the soil, and learning about growing food in an urban setting, we’d be happy to have you join us. Be sure to bring a water bottle, a small snack to sustain yourself, and dress for the weather including close-toe shoes. There are 6 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. In order to participate in this event, you must follow NC State Covid guidelines by wearing a mask at all times and maintaining social distance. Mikaelah Hill will manage attendance for this event.

photo courtesy ainissaramirez.com
Ainissa Ramirez, Ph.D. is an award-winning scientist and science communicator, who is passionate about getting the general public excited about science. A graduate of Brown University, she earned her doctorate in materials science and engineering from Stanford. Dr. Ramirez started her career as a scientist at Bell Laboratories in Murray Hill, New Jersey, and later worked as an associate professor of mechanical engineering at Yale. She authored the books The Alchemy of Us and Save Our Science, and co-authored Newton’s Football. She has written for Forbes, Time, The Atlantic, Scientific American, American Scientist, and Science and has explained science headlines on CBS, CNN, NPR, ESPN, and PBS. She also hosts a science podcast called Science Underground. (from www.anissaramirez.com). Advance registration is required. Attendance will be taken using a combination of in-event polling, and post-event reflection questions that will be sent directly to your ncsu.edu email address after you respond to the poll.
New Year, New Spaces — Hill Library Renovation
Monday, January 25
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Registration Link: Join NC State alumni and friends as we tour new spaces on campus! Get a first-time look at the spectacular new spaces at the Hill Library and then join us for a virtual discussion of how the major project came together. The program will feature Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost Warwick Arden, Senior Vice Provost and Director of Libraries Greg Raschke, and representatives from the Academic Success Center. The discussion will focus on the renovation project and how the spaces will support success for all NC State students. Advance registration is required.You will receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NC State LIVE presents a Digital Concert and Conversation with American Spiritual Ensemble
Wednesday, January 27
5:30 – 7:30 PM
Join the renowned choral singers of American Spiritual Ensemble as they combine powerful music with text from Eileen Guenther’s recently published book, In Their Own Words: Slave Life and the Power of Spirituals. This interactive presentation will include a concert and conversation with ASE Director Dr. Everett McCorvey. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Campus Conversations presents Trust
Wednesday, January 27
7:00 – 8:00 PM
The Campus Conversations are back and the first Conversation will be on the topic of Trust. Join us to get a glimpse at what trust looks like among your peers in a safe space for discussion. No advance registration is required. Follow this zoom link on the date and time listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Artist Virtual Interview Series: Andy Nasisse
Thursday, January 28
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Colorado ceramic artist and photographer Andy Nasisse talks about his work and process in conjunction with his current exhibition Animate Earth: Adventures in Mimetolithia. In the deserts of the Southwest, Nasisse photographs amazing landforms that resemble ghosts, ancient statues, or remnants of lost civilizations. In his studio, he makes ceramics that straddle the boundary between accidental and intentional, creating figures that seem to emerge from the clay on their own. All the while he engages with what is probably the most basic impulse of the human imagination: the tendency to “see things in things” through his heightened sense of pareidolia. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Fermentology Mini-Seminars: Novel Misos
Thursday, January 28
4:00 – 5:00 PM
How do microbial communities change as fermentation techniques move around the world? What happens when people mix far-flung traditions and local ingredients in new ways in new places for new flavours? Joshua Evans will talk about experiments with novel misos he has conducted among chefs and fermenters in some of Copenhagen’s leading kitchens. He will discuss the ideas behind the experiments, share some results, and explore what these culinary fermentation experiments tell us about microbial biogeography and domestication histories. He will also reflect on the social context of these experiments and what it means to share and remix cultures in today’s world.Josh is a PhD candidate in Geography and the Environment at the University of Oxford, and a visiting PhD student at the University of Copenhagen. Previously he was Lead Researcher at Nordic Food Lab, a non-profit institute in Copenhagen that conducted open-source gastronomic research for chefs, academics, and the public. Advance registration is required.You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Super Student Stories featuring Sabrina Hurtado
Thursday, January 28
6:00 – 7:00 PM
This series features short presentations from our students who are doing amazing things: study abroad, research, volunteer service, conference presentations, internships, and much more. Today, we’ll hear from Sabrina Hurtado about her experiences as a Scholar. Advance registration is required for this virtual event. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Coffee & Viz—Designing for Emotional Meaning-Making with Data
Friday, January 29
9:30 – 10:15 AM How might interactive data visualizations invite more social, emotional meaning making with data? How can sensor technologies allow space for human differences, uncertainty, and the irreducible complexity of human experiences? Howell will present her design research exploring different ways of knowing with biosensory data—data about people’s bodies, behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. Combining critical making, speculative design, and participatory experiences, her work challenges dominant techno-logics of data and explores alternatives. She makes with code, circuits, wood, e-textiles, and sound. Noura Howell is an assistant professor in the Department of Communication at NC State University. She completed her PhD at the University of California, Berkeley. Previously she worked at Intel Labs, The Echo Nest, and the MIT Media Lab. Advance registration is required.You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Rise and Climb at Carmichael Gym
Saturday, January 30
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
This is an in-person event and requires participants to adhere to NC State Covid guidelines.
Meet us at the Carmichael Rock Wall at the start time listed above.Join us this morning for a chance to wake up with a challenge on the newly installed NC State climbing wall at Carmichael Gym. This is sure to get our neurons and muscles alive, awake, and activated. There are 7 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. In order to participate in this event, you must follow NC State Covid guidelines by wearing a mask at all times and maintaining social distance. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.

photo courtesy NC State University
Tammy S. Gordon is a professor in the History Department at North Carolina State University, where she teaches public history and modern U.S. history. Her research focuses on historical memory and the leisure economy in recent history, and she is the author of three books: Private History in Public: Exhibition and the Settings of Everyday Life (Alta Mira Press, 2010), The Spirit of 1976: Commerce, Community, and the Politics of Commemoration (University of Massachusetts Press, 2013), and The Mass Production of Memory: Leisure Travel and Personal Archiving in the Age of the Kodak (University of Massachusetts Press, 2020). She is the author of articles on public history, historical memory, and the leisure economy and is the creator and facilitator of the community-curated site NC HB2: A Citizens’ History. Her blog, Tammy’s Museum Walkabout, explores issues of curation, visitation, and museological thought. She is a founding member of Historians for a Better Future. (from https://history.ncsu.edu/people/faculty_staff/tsgordo2). Advance registration is required. Attendance will be taken using a combination of in-event polling, and post-event reflection questions that will be sent directly to your ncsu.edu email address after you respond to the poll.
Around Us Film Series: The Little Prince
Tuesday, February 2
6:00 – 8:30 PM
Join us for a screening and conversation of the acclaimed film, The Little Prince, based on the French literary classic by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. No advance registration is required. Follow this zoom link on the date and time listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
University Theatre presents Matthew Miller
Tuesday, February 2
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Matthew Miller – Co-creator and director of TV Land’s Teachers. Commercial director for Got Milk?, Crest, Eggo and Lowe’s campaigns. Theater directing credits include Steppenwolf, Second City and Lifeline Theatre. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NC State LIVE and the Dance Program present a House Masterclass with Ephrat Asherie
Tuesday, February 2
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join leading choreographer Ephrat “Bounce” Asherie for a House Masterclass. The interactive class taught via Zoom, will cover some of the fundamentals of house, including aspects of footwork, floorwork and the importance of a freestyle approach to the form. The cultural context in which this dance was created and where it continues to thrive will be discussed and underscored in the movement. There are five spaces for this event and advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Discussion Series: In the Headlines
Wednesday, February 3
1:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join the staff of the UHSP for conversation about the top news of the day related to the state of North Carolina and the UNC System. This is news that is close to home and impacts you daily. Be sure to check it out. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. Attendance will be managed by Cliff Parker.
UHSP Faculty Conversation Series featuring Liz Holt
Wednesday, February 3
4:00 PM
Virtual Event
NC State faculty conduct world-changing research, inspire students to innovate and ensure that NC State continues to thrive in the higher education landscape. This series invites you to hear directly from faculty about the exciting things they’re doing inside and outside of the classroom. This session will feature Liz Holt, Assistant Director, The Caldwell Fellows. You must register in advance for this event. Attendance will be managed by the Scholars Forum Assistants during the event. You will receive a zoom link after you register.
The Society for Politics, Economics & the Law presents Megan McArdle
Wednesday, February 3
4:30 – 5:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join SPEL for a talk led by Washington Post columnist and Author of The Up Side of Down, Megan McArdle. Her talk, Left Behind: America’s Economy after the Plague Year is sure to generate conversation. Advance registration is required by emailing Dr. Andrew Taylor at ataylor@ncsu.edu. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Data Privacy Month Keynote event: Stalkerware
Thursday, February 4
3:30 – 4:30 PM
Virtual Event
Dr. Thomas Ristenpart of Cornell University will present the NC State Data Privacy Month keynote address, “Mitigating Technology Abuse in Intimate Partner Violence,” on Thursday, Feb. 4 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. In his talk, Ristenpart will discuss how abusers exploit technology to control, harass, stalk, and otherwise harm their current or former partner. He will also discuss how his research group works with technology companies and lawmakers to affect positive changes and how they have implemented a new interventional approach, called clinical computer security. Their Clinic to End Tech Abuse works in partnership with the New York City Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence to help survivors navigate technology abuse and, ultimately, empower their use of technology. Ristenpart’s research spans a wide range of computer security topics, with a recent focus on digital privacy and safety in intimate partner violence, cloud computing security, improvements in authentication mechanisms, confidentiality and privacy in machine learning, and applied and theoretical cryptography. His work is routinely featured in the national media and has been recognized with a number of distinguished awards. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Thoughts from the Artist: Daniel Johnston, Part 1
Thursday, February 4
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Youtube launch and gallery walk-through of A Thousand Throws and interview with master ceramic artist Daniel Johnston. Johnston combines his interests in architecture, engineering, installation art, and various traditions of making pottery to create works that control space and environment. By altering light, position, and how his work exists in the spaces he creates, he evokes new emotions that offer viewers a chance to take a journey that might change the way they interact with the pots—and with themselves. No registration is required for this event. At the event start time, visit the Gregg’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcI7c7SDXu6Qpy-LckxT8Gg. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Leadership and Civic Engagement: Transformative Leadership
Thursday, February 4
4:30 – 6:30 PM
The world is complex, and our challenges are many. Now more than ever, leaders are needed who have the skills to confront and address those very real complexities with an eye for systemic change. Join in this introduction to transformative leadership and its requisite skills as we engage in conversation around equity, justice and answer the question, “Leadership for what?”. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
University Theatre presents Chris Chalk
Thursday, February 4
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Chalk’s credits include roles on television’s Gotham, Homeland, Justified, Law & Order, and HBO’s The Newsroom. Broadway credits include August Wilson’s Fences with film credits 12 Years a Slave (2013) and Red Sea Diving Resort (2019). Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
UHSP Campus Resource Conversation featuring the NC State Women’s Center
Thursday, February 4
7:00 PM
Virtual Event
The NC State Women’s Center serves as a resource and catalyst using evidence-based practices for transformative learning on both the individual and institutional level around issues of gender, equity and interpersonal violence. The center builds and creates a community of authentic and engaged allies and leaders to pursue gender equity and social justice, enhancing the campus climate through education, advocacy, support and leadership development. Join us for a conversation to hear about the exciting happenings and offerings of this tremendous campus resource. You must register in advance for this event. Attendance will be managed by the Scholars Forum Assistants during the event.
A/V Geeks at the Hunt Library – Let’s Talk About Work
Friday, February 5
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Facebook Live (visit A/V Geeks page at https://www.facebook.com/avgeeks prior to the event start time)
Join A/V Geeks founder and NC State alumnus Skip Elsheimer, and Dr. David Zonderman from the History Department as they screen and discuss vintage vocational films and films about workers rights. No registration is required.Utilize the Facebook Live link listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Volunteer at the Food Bank of CENC
Saturday, February 6
12:20 – 4:30 PM
If you need transportation, meet at the UHSP office of Clark Hall on the Quad side
Join us for an afternoon of volunteer service at the food bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina near downtown Raleigh. The work we do today will help feed families in need. There are 6 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. This is an in-person event and you will be required to wear a face mask and practice social distancing at all times. Once you receive the reporter confirmation that you are registered for this event, you will need to complete a waiver form and sign up process with the Food Bank. We will send you that information directly via email on the Wednesday before your shift. If you need transportation to the event, you will meet us at Clark Hall at 12:30 PM. If you are driving yourself, you will meet us at 1924 Capital Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27604 at 12:50 PM. This event lasts until 4:30 PM.
Scholars Forum Breakouts
Monday, February 8
3:00 PM – 4:50 PM
Join the staff of the UHSP for a variety of smaller group breakout events today. Full details and sign up coming soon. Advance registration is required. Attendance will be taken using a combination of in-event polling, and post-event reflection questions that will be sent directly to your ncsu.edu email address after you respond to the poll.
NCSU Libraries: Innovation Studio Launch
Monday, February 8
6:00 – 7:15 PM
You can tune in live at https://www.twitch.tv/ncsulibraries.
To receive an email reminder before the event, sign up here.
Join the Libraries (virtually) as we launch our newest learning space, the Innovation Studio! You’ll get a taste of our teaching program in a fun, interactive exercise in “futures thinking,” and hear about our exhibits featuring innovative work from across NC State. We’ll be joined by local design firm Relative Scale, who helped build a novel interactive projection system for the Studio, and by students and faculty whose work it features. Utilize the Twitch link listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Libraries: Modern Libraries Tour Series – Temple University Library
Wednesday, February 10
12:00 – 1:00 PM
The new Charles Library at Temple University has a good deal in common with our James B. Hunt Jr. Library: it was designed by Snøhetta, houses an automated storage and retrieval system, and was conceptualized with innovation at the forefront. That said, Charles Library has a unique and inspiring vision all its own. Join us as Sara Wilson, the Assistant Director for Outreach and Communications at Temple University Libraries, provides us with a virtual tour of Charles Library and shares what makes it such a special place. This event is a part of a series that will allow us to explore what is happening at cutting-edge libraries across North America. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after registration. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
HSV Campus Conversation Project: History and Society
Wednesday, February 10
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event
If you’ve never attended a Campus Conversation Project event, think of 5-7 sitting together on a (virtual) couch talking about pressing societal issues of the day. We will be discussing the topic of History and Society: How has our understanding of history influenced our past, present, and future? Come join us discuss the intersection of history and society and the way historical narratives shape and are shaped by society. There is no registration required. Follow this link on the date and time of the event to participate. This event is open to all students in the UHSP. Questions, contact Katie Winslow at kewinslo@ncsu.edu. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Gregg Museum – Virtual Studio Visit: Stephen Althouse
Thursday, February 11
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Artist-photographer Stephen Althouse joins the Gregg Museum from his studio in Pennsylvania to discuss his artistic process and local Amish influences. “Like so many artists across time, I feel compelled to portray aspects of the human race,” he states. He photographs old implements as metaphorical portraits rather than making literal portrayals of people. His huge photographs (some nearly ten feet wide) command a presence that is sculptural. And no wonder, because he spent years as a trained sculptor before ever taking up a camera. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after registration. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Libraries – Fermentology Mini-Seminars: Tasting the History of Wine and Cheese
Thursday, February 11
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Each cheese and wine has a history. So too each featured aroma and flavor in each cheese and wine. In this short seminar, Charles Ludington, a historian of both wine and cheese, teams up with a chemist and a neuroscientist to describe key aromas that distinguish notable wines and cheeses and the history of those aromas. In doing so, he will allow listeners to literally savor specific moments in history and, while doing so, understand the chemistry and neuroscience of just what they are experiencing. Ludington is the author of several books, including The Politics of Wine in Britain: A New Cultural History (2013, paperback 2016), and most recently, Food Fights: How the Past Matters in Contemporary Food Debates, edited with Matthew Booker (2019). He is currently writing a book about the role of Irish wine merchants in the transformation of Bordeaux into a luxury wine during the eighteenth century. Advance registration is required.You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Leadership and Civic Engagement – Leading with Love Languages
Thursday, February 11
4:30 – 6:30 PM
Did you know there are Five Love Languages to show appreciation? Speaking and knowing the language of those you lead, is a great way to inspire and motivate others. Join us for this special Valentine’s themed leadership workshop! Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
African American Cultural Center presents Reclaiming Religion and Spirituality in the Black Community
Thursday, February 11
5:30 – 7:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join the African American Cultural Center for a conversation with queer Black elders Candace Simpson, Holiday Simmons and Emmanuel Brown about the impacts and liberation of religion and faith in the Black queer community. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
University Theatre presents Ryan Moller
Thursday, February 11
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Award-winning Chicago based costume designer for such companies as The Metropolitan Opera, The Santa Fe Opera, Norwegian Cruise Line and many more. Moller’s Broadway dressing credits include Hamilton, Rock of Ages, Memphis, Head over Heels, Mean Girls, Miss Saigon, American Psycho, and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Improv Workshop with Amy-Sawyers Williams
Friday, February 12
3:00 – 4:15 PM
Virtual Event
In this 75 minute workshop, improv comedian, applied theatre artist, and Arts NC State outreach & engagement manager Amy Sawyers-Williams will lead students through an introduction to improvisation with an emphasis on how improv can improve your communication skills (leading to better job interviews, better small talk, and better “life-ing” in general). This workshop will take place over Zoom and will be interactive. This event has a max of 20 students. Advance Registration is required. You will receive the zoom link upon registration. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Volunteer at the Food Bank of CENC
Saturday, February 13
12:20 – 4:30 PM
If you need transportation, meet at the UHSP office of Clark Hall on the Quad side
Join us for an afternoon of volunteer service at the food bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina near downtown Raleigh. The work we do today will help feed families in need. There are 6 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. This is an in-person event and you will be required to wear a face mask and practice social distancing at all times. Once you receive the reporter confirmation that you are registered for this event, you will need to complete a waiver form and sign up process with the Food Bank. We will send you that information directly via email on the Wednesday before your shift. If you need transportation to the event, you will meet us at Clark Hall at 12:30 PM. If you are driving yourself, you will meet us at 1924 Capital Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27604 at 12:50 PM. This event lasts until 4:30 PM.

photo courtesy Cosmos Magazine
Dr Katherine (Katie) Mack is a theoretical astrophysicist who studies a range of questions in cosmology, the study of the universe from beginning to end. She currently holds the position of Assistant Professor of Physics at North Carolina State University, where she is also a member of the Leadership in Public Science Cluster. Throughout her career she has studied dark matter, the early universe, galaxy formation, black holes, cosmic strings, and the ultimate fate of the cosmos. Alongside her academic research, she is an active science communicator and has been published in a number of popular publications such as Scientific American, Slate, Sky & Telescope, Time.com, and Cosmos Magazine, where she is a columnist. You can find her on Twitter as @AstroKatie. (from astrokatie.com). Advance registration is required. Attendance will be taken using a combination of in-event polling, and post-event reflection questions that will be sent directly to your ncsu.edu email address after you respond to the poll.
Super Student Stories with Elijah Bouma-Sims
Monday, February 15
7:00 – 8:00 PM
Virtual Event
The talk will discuss the student’s paper presented at USENIX Security 2020 titled “Who’s Calling? Characterizing Robocalls through Audio and Metadata Analysis” (https://www.usenix.org/conference/usenixsecurity20/presentation/prasad) in which various findings were presented from a honeypot study on robocalls. The presentation will discuss the efficacy of various mitigation techniques and the general behaviour of robocallers which were observed. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Unraveling the Truth:
A look into Black Culture
Tuesday, February 16
4:30 PM
Virtual Event
Hosted by NC State Wilson College of Textiles and the D&I Committee.
Join us as we take a look into Black Culture with Harvard Professor Jonathan Square, Ph.D. His work focuses on how clothing served as a form of expression for enslaved people, and his most recent research is on the culture of headwraps.
During this session, Dr. Square will take us through the history and culture of headwraps, the significance of this textile garment and the various wraps that are worn within Black Culture.
Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Scholars Forum Film Series: Andromeda Strain
Tuesday, February 16
6:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join Ken Johnson for a screening of a critically acclaimed film followed by discussion questions and analysis. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Libraries: Modern Libraries Tour Series – Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library – Central DC Library
Wednesday, February 17
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Join us as Martha Saccocio and Maryann James-Daley from DC Public Library provide us with a virtual tour of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. Designed by pioneer of modernist architecture Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the library is standout for both its aesthetic and the innovative services provided inside its walls of steel and glass. We’ll discuss recent renovations and the initiatives that make the Martin Luther King Jr. Library such a valuable resource for its patrons. This event is a part of a series that will allow us to explore what is happening at cutting-edge libraries across North America.Martha Saccocio serves as the interim Director for Public Engagement for DC Public Library. Maryann James-Daley serves as the Director of Public Services for Central Library. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Virtual Scavenger Hunt
Thursday, February 18
7:00 – 8:00 PM
Virtual Event
The players will be given clues for everyday household items. They then must find the item in their home and be the first to bring it back to receive a point. A gift card will be awarded to the student who receives the most points! Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Data Privacy Month: Privacy Checkup Session
Wednesday, February 17
1:30 – 2:30 PM
Virtual Event
When was the last time you had a data privacy checkup for your mobile device? Just like it’s a good idea to have an annual health check at your doctor’s office, it’s important to make sure your device and data are protected as well. Join information security experts from the Office of Information Technology and the NC State Department of Computer Science to learn how to assess your data privacy status, the six mobile device security settings that everyone should know about, and campus resources available to help to protect your privacy. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
USP Discussion Series: In the Headlines – CRISPR, a glance at the future
Wednesday, February 17
1:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join the staff of the UHSP for broad readings and conversation about the top news related to the amazing world of CRISPR research. Be sure to check it out. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Scholars Forum Book Club: The Best of Me
Wednesday, February 17
7:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join Dr. Scott O’Leary for conversation about the fantastically funny book The Best of Me by David Sedaris. There are 15 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Once you’ve registered, stop by Clark Hall 219 to pick up your copy of the book. Read it and mark your calendars for the discussion. Attendance will be managed by Dr. Scott O’Leary.
The Crafts Center Byzantine Bracelet Workshop
Thursday, February 18
1:00 – 3:00 PM
In-person event
Join us at the NC State Crafts Center for a chance to learn to make your own metal chain link bracelet in a Byzantine style. This is an in-person event and individuals must adhere to NC State covid community standards. There are 4 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Attendance will be managed by April Sharp.
Flourish Tea Party!
Thursday, February 18
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join Prevention Services Flourish group for a virtual tea party. They will discuss the health benefits of various plants used in tea, featuring two horticulture specialist speakers. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Virtual Guided Tour of exhibitions at the Gregg Museum
Thursday, February 18
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Join a staff-guided virtual tour via Zoom, where attendees “walk through” exhibitions at the museum. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
The Khayrallah Center presents Turath
Thursday, February 18
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event
The Khayrallah Center is holding a series of monthly seminars this spring as part of a virtual historical exhibition, Turath, that celebrates early Arab American arts and culture. This webinar will feature visual artist Helen Zughaib. She will be speaking about the Arab Spring and the Syrian Refugee crisis and how they have influenced her art. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Universty Theatre presents the Fall 2004 cast of Follies
Friday, February 19
8:00 – 9:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join the cast and crew of the 2004, fall production of “FOLLIES” for a look back on some of their favorite moments from the production, hear from old friends, and reconnect with fellow company members. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.

Scholars Forum and Arts NC State present An Artist Talk with the Co-creators of SPEAK
Monday, February 22
3:00 PM – 4:50 PM
photo courtesy the artists.
Flipping the script on forms generally dominated by men, Indian Kathak artists Rina Mehta and Rachna Nivas together with tap dance legends Michelle Dorrance and Dormeshia have co-created a triumph of cross-cultural collaboration called SPEAK. SPEAK combines Indian classical music, jazz, tap, and Kathak to find commonalities between cultures and art forms, while highlighting (and celebrating) our differences. Hear how these artists layer their personal histories within larger global contexts to collaborate across traditional dance and music forms. Advance registration is required. Attendance will be taken using a combination of in-event polling, and post-event reflection questions that will be sent directly to your ncsu.edu email address after you respond to the poll.
Campus History Series – When MLK and the KKK met in Raleigh
Tuesday, February 23
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
On July 31, 1966, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke at Reynolds Coliseum in Raleigh to an integrated audience of about 5,000. Meanwhile, a counter-protest was held at Memorial Auditorium, followed by a march by members from two factions of the Ku Klux Klan. W. Jason Miller, professor of English at NC State University and author of Origins of the Dream, will discuss his research into this little-known historical convergence. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Data Privacy Month: Privacy Checkup Session
Tuesday, February 23
1:30 – 2:30 PM
Virtual Event
When was the last time you had a data privacy checkup for your mobile device? Just like it’s a good idea to have an annual health check at your doctor’s office, it’s important to make sure your device and data are protected as well. Join information security experts from the Office of Information Technology and the NC State Department of Computer Science to learn how to assess your data privacy status, the six mobile device security settings that everyone should know about, and campus resources available to help to protect your privacy. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
SPEL: The State of Free Inquiry and Speech on College Campuses
Tuesday, February 23
4:30 – 5:30 PM
Virtual Event
Dr. Sam Abrams is Professor of Politics and Social Science at Sarah Lawrence College, visiting scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, and faculty fellow at NYU’s Center for Advanced Social Science Research. In order to register for this event, email Dr. Andrew Taylor at ataylor@ncsu.edu to receive a zoom link. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Improv Workshop with Amy-Sawyers Williams
Tuesday, February 23
5:30 – 6:45 PM
Virtual Event
In this 75 minute workshop, improv comedian, applied theatre artist, and Arts NC State outreach & engagement manager Amy Sawyers-Williams will lead students through an introduction to improvisation with an emphasis on how improv can improve your communication skills (leading to better job interviews, better small talk, and better “life-ing” in general). Space is limited to 18 participants and advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Scholars Forum Film Series: Outbreak
Tuesday, February 23
6:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join Ken Johnson for a screening of a critically acclaimed film followed by discussion questions and analysis. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Viral* Blackness Exhibit Opening Featuring Scholar-Activist Yaba Blay
Tuesday, February 23
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join the Women’s Center and the African American Cultural Center for the Viral* Blackness Exhibit and Zine opening. This opening is dedicated to all participants and those interested in what it means to be Black and experience Blackness in this new decade. Yaba Blay, scholar-activist, content creator, cultural consultant and the creative mind behind #PrettyPeriod and #ProfessionalBlackGirl will join us. She will talk about “Black Joy as Resistance” and how we can use her example and create Black joy wherever we are and whenever we need it. We will also take a look at the submissions and hear discussions and readings from participants. For more information on Blay, please visit her website. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Around Us Film Series: Song of the Sea
Tuesday, February 23
6:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event
In the next installment of the Around Us Film Series, we will be showing the Irish folktale film Song of the Sea, which follows two children as they come face to face with figures in Celtic mythology as they search for the fabled selkie. A trailer for this film can be found here! Around Us is our monthly movie discussion, so come prepared to speak your mind. Advance registration is not required. Simply follow this link at the date and time listed above to join the film screening. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NC Museum of Natural Sciences: Coloring the Conservation Conversation
Wednesday, February 24
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event – join at https://youtu.be/C_SOYiuio6g
Dr. Drew Lanham, Alumni Distinguished Professor of Wildlife Ecology, Master Teacher and Certified Wildlife Biologist, Clemson University Lanham will discuss what it means to embrace the full breadth of his African-American heritage and his deep kinship to nature and adoration of birds. The convergence of ornithologist, college professor, poet, author and conservation activist blend to bring our awareness of the natural world and our moral responsibility for it forward in new ways. Candid by nature — and because of it — Lanham will examine how conservation must be a rigorous science and evocative art, inviting diversity and race to play active roles in celebrating our natural world. Advance registration is not required. In order to attend the event visit https://youtu.be/C_SOYiuio6g at the date and time listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Red, White & Black Virtual Tour
Wednesday, February 24
5:30 – 7:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join fellow NC State alumni and friends for an evening with Toni Harris Thorpe, former program director at the African American Cultural Center. Thorpe previously led the Red, White & Black Walking Tour, which is featured in the upcoming issue of the award-winning NC State magazine. This virtual tour will revisit campus locations that helped give voice to the Black experience at NC State. Thorpe will also discuss the tour’s beginnings, meaningful places and the importance of looking to the past to help us move forward. A Q&A with Thorpe will be held after the virtual tour. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Living Abroad with the Global Ambassadors
Wednesday, February 24
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join members of the Global Ambassadors as they share their personal experiences with living abroad. During a time in which international travel is limited, come and learn about how they immersed themselves in different cultures and adapted to their new environment. Questions are encouraged. Advance registration is not required. Simply go to https://ncsu.zoom.us/j/96247079388 at the date and time listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
Campus Conversations Project: Technology and Relationships
Wednesday, February 24
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event
The Honors and Scholars Village is holding our next Campus Conversation on Wednesday, February 24th at 7 PM. We will be discussing the topic of Technology and Relationships: How is technology affecting your relationships? Do you ever “unplug”? Is technology our friend, the life saving tool of the 21st Century or a manipulator of our minds and master of our time? Who is in charge? Come join us discuss the way technology affects interpersonal relationship in contemporary society. This event is open to all students in the UHSP. Questions, contact Katie Winslow at kewinslo@ncsu.edu. Advance registration is not required. Simply click here at the date and time listed above to join the conversation. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Black Beach/White Beach Film Viewing
Thursday, February 25
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
The Multicultural Student Affairs will host a viewing of the documentary Black Beach/White Beach: A Tale of Two Beaches. The film focuses on two national bike festivals held on back-to-back weekends in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina — one primarily white, one predominantly black — that cause racial tensions to reach a boiling point every spring in this seaside community. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place. **You may also be interested to join a follow-up discussion with the film’s director today at 5:00 PM, however, it will not count for Scholars Forum credit.
Fermentology Mini-Seminars: Ukrainian Fermentation: Traditional Practices and Modern Uses with Olia Hercules!
Thursday, February 25
4:00 – 5:30 PM
Virtual Event
Renowned author, Olia Hercules will talk about traditional fermentation practices that take place in special traditional kitchen spaces, called ‘summer kitchens’. She will talk through a number of regional pickles from fermented tomato sauce to apples pickled in pumpkin puree and whole watermelons fermented in wooden barrels. She will discuss the pickles’ traditional uses in cooking as well as modern interpretations.
This talk is run in partnership with Quail Ridge Bookstore and attendees have the opportunity to purchase Olia’s book, “Summer Kitchens” before and after her talk! Please register to attend the virtual talks by filling in this form. Even if you were registered before – please re-register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NC Museum of Natural Science: Science? Art? Or Both?
Thursday, February 25
7:00 – 8:00 PM
Virtual Event – join at https://youtu.be/yKOHAqpmg8M
Often science and art are cast as two separate things. One is creative, intuitive, subjective. The other analytical, technical, and objective. But Art can be analytical, and Science can be rather creative. We’ll chat about how these fields are two sides of the same coin, and when brought together, they can be a force for real transformation. Learn more about the event at https://naturalsciences.org/calendar/event/science-tonight-science-art-both/. Advance registration is not required. In order to attend the event visit https://youtu.be/yKOHAqpmg8M at the date and time listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Coffee & Viz—Data Showing: Communicating Visually with your Reader in Mind
Friday, February 26
9:30 – 10:15 AM
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED
Visualization researchers have evaluated the effectiveness of different data presentation strategies and call for more studies of the tools and techniques for data exploration and analytic needs. This work primarily focuses on supporting the expert data user. Data visualization for the purpose of analysis is not the same as data visualization for communication. Visualizations created for non-technical experts or to communicate to everyday lay-readers require different presentation models than those used in the scientific realms. Building on her work as co-PI for an IEI-supported project on mapping local NC community “Data Stories,” Dr. Deborah Littlejohn, Associate Professor of Graphic Design in the College of Design, will present a reader-centric approach to data presentation that uses principles from user experience and graphic design with the goal of helping data readers craft narrative understandings of the information. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
UHSP Alumni Stories
Friday, February 26
1:00 – 2:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join us as we hear from UHSP Alum Chris Tomso (’14) as he talks about his career as a system engineer at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics, where he supports flight operations for the United Arab Emirates Hope Mars Mission. Learn more about his work here. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
The Crafts Center Fused Glass Workshop
Friday, February 26
2:00 – 4:00 PM
In-person event
Join us at the NC State Crafts Center to learn the basics of fused glass craft work and make a piece to call your own. This is an in-person event and individuals must adhere to NC State covid community standards. There are 4 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Attendance will be managed by Morgan Budzynski.
Data Privacy Month: Are You Being Stalked in Cyberspace?
Friday, February 26
2:00 – 3:30 PM
Virtual Event
Are you concerned about how much of your information is in cyberspace, who is tracking your data and how they are collecting it? A panel of NC State and industry partners will discuss the data tracking ecosystem and the growing concerns with privacy in cyberspace. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Carolina Ballet presents Macbeth
Friday, February 26
7:30 PM
Virtual Event
With so many sets, costume pieces, production crew, musicians and guest artists onstage and backstage for Macbeth, we have made the decision to go into the vault and present UNC-TV’s televised version with our original cast, including principal dancers Lara O’Brien, Marcelo Martinez and Pablo Javier Perez. There are 15 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Rise and Climb at Carmichael Gym
Saturday, February 27
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
This is an in-person event and requires participants to adhere to NC State Covid guidelines.
Meet us at the Carmichael Rock Wall at the start time listed above.Join us this morning for a chance to wake up with a challenge on the newly installed NC State climbing wall at Carmichael Gym. This is sure to get our neurons and muscles alive, awake, and activated. There are 7 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. In order to participate in this event, you must follow NC State Covid guidelines by wearing a mask at all times and maintaining social distance. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place. This event will be managed by Erin Kohn.
Scholars Forum Breakouts
Monday, March 1
3:00 PM – 4:50 PM
Virtual Event – register here
Join the staff of the UHSP for a variety of smaller group breakout events today. Full details and sign up coming soon. Advance registration is required. Attendance will be taken using a combination of in-event polling, and post-event reflection questions that will be sent directly to your ncsu.edu email address after you respond to the poll.
The UN Sustainable Development Goals: What Are They? Why Are They Important? How Can You Get Involved?
Monday, March 1
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Virtual Event
The Sustainable Development Goals are a collection of 17 interlinked global goals designed to be a “blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.” The United Nations General Assembly set those goals in 2015, and the assembly intends for them to be achieved by 2030. During an interactive virtual roundtable discussion, we will talk about the 17 goals, why the goals are important and how students can get involved with them on campus. Leading this roundtable discussion will be: Heidi Hobbs, an associate professor of political science in the School of Public and International Affairs and director of faculty engagement for Global Learning for All. Seth Murray, director of the international studies program and director of Undergraduate Programs in the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies. This event is part of Sustainable Development Goals Action and Awareness Week at NC State (March 1-5). Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
Discussion Series: In the Headlines
Tuesday, March 2
1:00 – 2:00 PM
Virtual Event – register here
Join us for a small group conversation of current events drawn from the day’s headlines in the news. There are 15 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Cliff Parker will manage attendance.
A Conversation and Workshop with Descalza Creator and Founder – Lisbeth Carolina Arias
Tuesday, March 2
3:00 – 5:00 PM
Virtual Event
Born in El Salvador and raised in North Carolina,Lisbeth Carolina Arias has woven her story as an immigrant of the United States into a clothing brand that is cherished by those who are proud of their heritage. As a young girl growing up in rural NC, fashion design served as the first outlet that didn’t have a language barrier. It was one she and her mother, a highly-skilled seamstress, could finally cross together. Arias studied Fashion and Textile Design at North Carolina State University, interned in community-focused brands in Guatemala, Brazil, Mexico, and Italy, and worked for several fashion studios, including Vera Wang, in New York City all before starting Descalza. Her love for people, especially those who humbled her, have inspired her to create a fashion label where hidden talent wouldn’t go unnoticed and her community would be heard. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Campus Resource Talk: Crafts Center
Tuesday, March 2
5:00 – 6:00 PM
Virtual Event – register here
Carol Fountain Nix is the Director of the Crafts Center and C:LAB. Carol will lead Tuesday night’s presentation with a virtual walk-through of the Center and share details about the many classes, workshops and events. The Crafts Center is the “creativity hub” on campus with programs in clay, jewelry, wood, mixed media, fibers, photography, calligraphy, and glass as well as digital media, engraving, and professional development. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
University Theatre presents Shauna Johannesen
Tuesday, March 2
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Shauna Johannesen — Vancouver-based award-winning writer, actor and filmmaker whose plays have been produced across Western Canada. Her short film Bedbugs: A Musical Love Story garnered numerous accolades on the festival circuit including Leo awards for screenwriting and best female actor. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Gregg Museum of Art and Design: In-person Walkthrough
Wednesday, March 3
2:45 PM – 4:15 PM
In-person event: Meet at the UHSP office on the Quad side of Clark Hall, 2nd Floor
Join us for an in-person walkthrough of the Gregg Museum of Art and Design. We will meet at the UHSP offices in Clark Hall (2nd floor, enter from the Quad) and walk to the museum from there. Since this is an in-person event, participants must adhere to NC State community safety guidelines including wearing a mask at all times and maintaining social distancing. There are 9 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Sydney Gyurek will manage attendance using the Scholars Forum attendance cards.
Campus History Series: The History of Basketball at NC State
Wednesday, March 3
5:30 – 6:30 PM
Virtual Event
Tim Peeler of NC State’s Communications Department and Roger Winstead, photographer, will recount the traditions and innovations that have shaped Wolfpack basketball as well as the history and customs of college basketball itself. This program is presented in partnership with the Alumni Association. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
The Crafts Center Handbuilding Clay Workshop
Thursday, March 4
1:00 – 3:00 PM
In-person event
Join us at the NC State Crafts Center to learn the basics of handbuilding with clay and make a piece to carry home with you. This is an in-person event and individuals must adhere to NC State covid community standards. There are 5 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Attendance will be managed by Sydney Gyurek.
NC Museum of Natural Sciences: How to Grow a Tyrannasaur
Thursday, March 4
7:00 – 8:00 PM
Virtual Event – join at https://youtu.be/-hQ3-GEbRdI
Dinosaurs are known for their massive sizes that are the result of some of the most remarkable growth strategies in the animal kingdom. T. rex in particular is iconic for being one of the largest land predators to have ever existed in addition to being one of the fastest-growing land predators. But we don’t know where and when in time tyrannosaurs dramatically evolved to become gigantic. Evan’s research focuses on reconstructing the life history of Tarbosaurus, a close relative of T. rex, by examining the growth history hidden inside the limb bones of several individuals at different ages. By understanding how Tarbosaurus grew, he hopes to not only understand the evolution of gigantism in tyrannosaurs but also lay the foundation for a more refined look at tyrannosaur development on a species basis. Learn more about tonight’s guest speaker here. Advance registration is not required. In order to attend the event visit https://youtu.be/-hQ3-GEbRdI at the date and time listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
A/V Geeks at the Hunt Library – Let’s Talk About Animals
Friday, March 5
3:00 – 4:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join A/V Geeks founder and NC State alumnus Skip Elsheimer, and Nicole Welk-Joerger from NC State’s Department of history as they screen and discuss vintage and educational films about all things equine, canine, and bovine. Advance registration is not required. Simply visit https://www.facebook.com/avgeeks at the date and time listed above to participate. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Gregg Museum of Art and Design: In-person Walkthrough
Friday, March 5
3:45 PM – 5:15 PM
In-person event: Meet at the UHSP office on the Quad side of Clark Hall, 2nd Floor
Join us for an in-person walkthrough of the Gregg Museum of Art and Design. We will meet at the UHSP offices in Clark Hall (2nd floor, enter from the Quad) and walk to the museum from there. Since this is an in-person event, participants must adhere to NC State community safety guidelines including wearing a mask at all times and maintaining social distancing. There are 9 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Alisa Andrews will manage attendance using the Scholars Forum attendance cards.
NC Museum of Art: Weinberg Lecture of Egyptology “Learning from Egyptian Mummies”
Sunday, March 7
2:00 – 3:30 PM
Virtual Event
The evolution of diseases and their role in human history can be discovered through archaeological evidence provided by the study of mummies. This is done using traditional autopsy procedures and sophisticated CT and MRI analyses. Michael R. Zimmerman, MD, PhD of Villanova University discusses historical and theoretical issues and his own experience studying and learning from Egyptian mummies. This virtual lecture is part of Golden Mummies of Egypt exhibition educational programming. If you do not receive a confirmation email or for additional questions on the content of this program, email Maria Lopez at maria.lopez@ncdcr.gov. The museum is working to make online content accessible. If you need live captions or an ASL interpreter or have another request, email Felicia Ingram at Felicia.Ingram@ncdcr.gov. Advance registration is required. You will receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Honors and Scholars Village Symposium: Moral Leadership in Nontraditional Spaces
Monday, March 8
3:00 – 4:50 PM
The political and social tumult of 2020 has drawn increased attention to nontraditional spaces as people have had to confront new challenges, ideas, and realities. The following discussion panel brings together three guests who exemplify different phases or aspects of leadership: ideation, expression, and articulation, to discuss how they define moral leadership, see their roles as moral leaders in nontraditional spaces. and what this means for the future of leadership. Advance registration is required.
University Theatre presents Heather J. Strickland
Tuesday, March 9
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Heather J. Strickland – Theatre and non-profit executive, as well as a ‘sometimes’ artist with experience in fight and intimacy choreography, acting, directing, and teaching. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Modern Libraries Tour Series – Calgary Public Library
Wednesday, March 10
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
In Canada, there’s a place you can go to get information on entrepreneurship, seek wisdom from an Elders’ Guidance Circle, take in some art, and learn from a Historian in Residence all in the same afternoon before leaving with an armful of books. It’s the Calgary Public Library’s award-winning Central library. Join us as Sarah Meilleur, the Director for Service Delivery, takes us on a virtual tour that highlights what makes their spaces and services one of a kind. This event is part of a series that will allow us to explore what is happening at cutting-edge libraries across North America. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NC Museum of Art Lunchtime Lecture: Change the Face: Finding Power in Identity
Thursday, March 11
12:00 – 1:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join us this Women’s History Month as we consider the intersections of power and identity via the NCMA’s contemporary art collection. Hear from Mellon Foundation Assistant Curator Maya Brooks as she compares various representations of Black women’s strength and examines how these pieces compel us to “change the face of power.” If you do not receive a confirmation email or for additional questions on the content of this program, email Maria Lopez at maria.lopez@ncdcr.gov. The museum is working to make online content accessible. If you need live captions or an ASL interpreter or have another request, email Felicia Ingram at Felicia.Ingram@ncdcr.gov. Advance registration is required. You will receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
UHSP Faculty Conversations Series featuring Dr. Mickey Fearn
Thursday, March 11
4:30 – 5:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join us for a conversation and questions with Dr. Mickey Fearn from the College of Natural Resources. Learn more about Dr. Fearn’s incredible research at and work at https://rrs.cnr.ncsu.edu/5429-2/. Today’s talk is entitled “The Guide to Living Powerfully in America”. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Study Abroad Office presents #TravelingWhileBlack
Thursday, March 11
6:00 – 7:00 PM
Virtual Event – register here
The Study Abroad Office and International Programs in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences will be hosting #TravelingWhileBlack. Come listen to the global experiences of fellow NC State students, alumni, faculty, and/ or staff who identify as Black or African American. We are looking forward to engaging and enriching conversation. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
State of Sound Stories: Ruby Ibarra
Thursday, March 11
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Virtual Event – Join the conversation here at the date and time listed above.
State of Sound: Stories presented by NC State University Libraries invites individuals and groups to share personal sound stories of how their own creative paths connected them to sound in an effort to highlight unique ways forward for those interested in making sound a bigger part of their lives or careers.
Join us on Thursday, March 11th at 4:00PM for a conversation with Filipino-American rapper, spoken word artist, director, producer, scientist and activist Ruby Ibarra. Ruby’s music tells the story of immigrants, empowerment, and cultural pride by rapping in Tagalog, Waray, and English. Aside from her art, Ruby is also a scientist at a Bay Area biotech company working on Covid-19 test kits and vaccines.
In this conversation we will be asking Ruby about her story, her art, her directorial debut: Nothing on US: Pinays Rising, and how she finds the balance between her craft and her professional career. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Sharing Our Streams
Friday, March 12
12:00 – 2:00 PM
Virtual Event
After spending the bulk of 2020 in front of Zoom, many of us have been thinking about how the virtual platforms we choose for communication influence the way we interact. Students from Dr. Nicholas Taylor’s Ludic Networks course are taking the online communication experiment a step further by stepping into the spotlight on Twitch, where they’ll get meta about what it’s like to livestream while guest hosting on the Libraries’ Twitch account. Join us as they share a bit about their research and some of their insights on what it’s like on the other side of the camera lens. Advance registration is not required. Simply visit the Libraries’ Twitch stream on the date and time listed above to participate. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Department of History – Complicated Legacies: Race, Space, and White Supremacy in NC State History
Friday, March 12
2:00 – 3:30 PM
Holladay Hall
Across NC State’s history, many Pack members—including powerful decision makers, students, professors, and staff—upheld White Supremacy within and outside the school, while an increasing number of campus community members confronted and disrupted racist hierarchies. This tension remains part of the school’s buildings, from the land on which the structures stand to the names assigned them. Discover the history of that tension on this campus tour. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Department of History – Complicated Legacies: Race, Space, and White Supremacy in NC State History
Saturday, March 13
10:00 – 11:30 AM
Holladay Hall
Across NC State’s history, many Pack members—including powerful decision makers, students, professors, and staff—upheld White Supremacy within and outside the school, while an increasing number of campus community members confronted and disrupted racist hierarchies. This tension remains part of the school’s buildings, from the land on which the structures stand to the names assigned them. Discover the history of that tension on this campus tour. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Black Feminist Theoretic Poetic Musings with Shana Tucker, Jaki Shelton Green, and Nicole Mitchell
Saturday, March 13
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event – register here
Join NC State LIVE for a multi-disciplinary performance centered in the narrative of 3 artists (cellist Shana Tucker, poet Jaki Shelton Green, and flutist Nicole Mitchell) who will share poetic and musical perspectives of their lived experience navigating this country and world as Black women. The event will be streamed live from the Kennedy-McIlwee Studio Theatre. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.

photo courtesy indy week
The daughter of Georgia natives, Rissi was born near Pittsburgh and spent her adolescent years in Missouri. Raised in a musical family that loved both country and R&B, she sang in a singing and dancing troupe sponsored by a local television station at 16. She was offered her first publishing and label deals at 19, and in 2007 released the album Rissi Palmer, charting with the singles, “Country Girl,” “Hold On To Me,” and “No Air.” She followed with a Christmas single, an independently released children’s album, Best Day Ever, and an EP called The Back Porch Sessions.
Rissi Palmer’s gift lies in reaching across boundaries. One of our most compelling singers, she is at home in R&B but made her mark in country, bringing the entire spectrum of popular music to bear on music she calls “Southern Soul.”
Her new album, Revival, is her most powerful work to date. The product of a mature artistic vision, laser-focused social consciousness, and a voice with the power and grace only experience can bring, it is also her most important work. Revival finds Rissi dealing with some of the most pressing issues of the times, as well as with the personal realms of love, loss, and identity. (from rissiplamermusic.com). Advance registration is required. Attendance will be taken using a combination of in-event polling, and post-event reflection questions that will be sent directly to your ncsu.edu email address after you respond to the poll.
Student Government presents Making Wellness Accessible
Monday, March 15 This event has been rescheduled for March 22.
5:00 – 6:00 PM
Virtual Event – join the call here
Join Student Government, the GLBT Center and The Wellness Department for a workshop on ow to make wellness accessible. No advance registration is needed. Simply follow this link at the date and time listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Department of History – Complicated Legacies: Race, Space, and White Supremacy in NC State History
Monday, March 15
5:30 – 7:00 PM
Holladay Hall
Across NC State’s history, many Pack members—including powerful decision makers, students, professors, and staff—upheld White Supremacy within and outside the school, while an increasing number of campus community members confronted and disrupted racist hierarchies. This tension remains part of the school’s buildings, from the land on which the structures stand to the names assigned them. Discover the history of that tension on this campus tour. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
UHSP Campus Resource Conversation featuring NC State University Libraries
Tuesday, March 16
5:00 – 6:00 PM
Virtual event – Zoom link
The NC State University Libraries is the gateway to knowledge for the university community and partners. We define the leading edge of information services and collections to support the university’s mission and to further knowledge in the world. Join us for a conversation with Lara Fountaine and Kristy Borda to hear about the exciting happenings and offerings of this tremendous campus resource. Attendance will be managed by the Scholars Forum Assistants during the event.
NCSU Honors and Scholars Village – Around Us Film Series: Princess Kaguya
Tuesday, March 16
6:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual event – Zoom link
In this installment of the ongoing film series, we will show an insightful and thought-provoking film that fits into the semester’s theme animated films that represent culture and story-telling. Through showing this via Princess Kaguya, the topic of folktale and mythology in storytelling will shed light on how students watch animated films, which hopefully captures attention and interest for the remaining films in the series. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Scholars Forum Film Series: Contagion
Tuesday, March 16
6:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join Ken Johnson for a screening of a critically acclaimed film followed by discussion questions and analysis. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
University Theatre presents Joel Veenstra
Tuesday, March 16
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Joel Veenstra — Professional Actors’ Equity Association stage manager, production manager, producer and improviser. Currently, he is the associate chair of production and co-head of the stage management program for the University of California’s Claire Trevor School of the Arts. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Carolina Ballet presents Vivaldi’s Four Seasons
Wednesday, March 17
7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Featuring Four Miniatures by Founding Artistic Director Robert Weiss, these new works will consist of two solos and two pas de deux, danced by our company members and by guest artists from New York City Ballet. The evening will also include Weiss’ choreography to Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. There are 10 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Making Space: LEGOfied
Thursday, March 18
1:30 – 2:30 PM
Virtual Event
Everybody seems to love LEGO, and the little plastic bricks have become an international phenomenon. Dr. Nick Taylor and Dr. Sarah Evans will discuss their new book LEGOfied: Building Blocks as Media, and explore the multi-faceted LEGO fandom, the role of hobbyist enthusiasts and content producers, and how gender plays into the experiences, practices, and products of LEGO builders and artists. The first 40 people to register from the NC State community (current students, faculty, or staff with an NCSU email address), will receive a kit of LEGO bricks hand-picked by Nick and Sarah so that you can build along during the talk! Kits can be picked up at the Hill Library or will be mailed (US addresses only). This program is part of the Making Space series, sponsored by Eastman University Engagement Fund. Register here (first 40 NCSU affiliates to register receive free legos). You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Fermentology Mini-Series: Make Mead Like a Viking
Thursday, March 18
4:00 PM
Jereme Zimmerman, experimental home-brewer and fermentation enthusiast, will speak on his experiments in recreating ancient meads and beers utilizing the simple techniques and ingredients that would have been available to ancient peoples. He will share what he has learned from his deep digs into ethnographic, archaeological and biomolecular archaeological sources to determine how mead, arguably the world’s most ancient fermented beverage was prepared and enjoyed by ancient peoples across the globe.
Please register to attend the virtual talks by filling in this form. Even if you were registered before – please re-register. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Volunteer at the Food Bank of CENC CANCELED
Friday, March 19
12:30 – 4:30 PM
If you need transportation, meet at the UHSP office of Clark Hall on the Quad side
Join us for an afternoon of volunteer service at the food bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina near downtown Raleigh. The work we do today will help feed families in need. There are 6 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. This is an in-person event and you will be required to wear a face mask and practice social distancing at all times. Once you receive the reporter confirmation that you are registered for this event, you will need to complete a waiver form and sign up process with the Food Bank. We will send you that information directly via email on the Wednesday before your shift. If you need transportation to the event, you will meet us at Clark Hall at 12:30 PM. If you are driving yourself, you will meet us at 1924 Capital Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27604 at 12:50 PM. This event lasts until 4:30 PM. Eileen Tan will manage attendance.
Tour the City of Raleigh Museum
Friday, March 19
2:30 – 4:30 PM
In-person Event Meet at the UHSP Office on the 2nd Floor of Clark Hall (Entrance from the Quad)
Join the UHSP for a tour of the City of Raleigh Museum and a short walking tour of nearby historic points of interest. Dress for the weather. Since this is an in-person event, participants must adhere to NC State community safety guidelines including wearing a mask at all times and maintaining social distancing. There are 6 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Erin Kohn will manage attendance using the Scholars Forum attendance cards.
University Theatre presents the Spring 2014 Cast of Chicago
Friday, March 19
8:00 – 9:30 PM
Virtual Event
Spring 2014 Cast of Chicago – Join the cast and crew of the 2014, spring production of “CHICAGO” for a look back on some of their favorite moments from the production, hear from old friends, and reconnect with fellow company members. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Department of History – Complicated Legacies: Race, Space, and White Supremacy in NC State History
Sunday, March 21
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Holladay Hall
Across NC State’s history, many Pack members—including powerful decision makers, students, professors, and staff—upheld White Supremacy within and outside the school, while an increasing number of campus community members confronted and disrupted racist hierarchies. This tension remains part of the school’s buildings, from the land on which the structures stand to the names assigned them. Discover the history of that tension on this campus tour. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Scholars Forum Breakouts: Faculty Conversations
Monday, March 22
3:00 PM – 4:50 PM
Virtual Event – Register here.
We are very excited to be joined by faculty from NC State today for a variety of lectures.
- Dr. Carrie Thomas works in the Department of Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Sciences. Her talk is entitled “Discovery and Climate Change on the Antarctic Continental Shelf”.
- Dr. Ross Bassett works in the Department of History. His talk is entitled “North Carolina in the Age of the Model T: A Digital History Project”
- Dr. Bob Patterson works in the Crop and Soil Department. His talk is entitled “A personal example of our university’s approach to preparing you for healthy global understanding–A Study Abroad Experience in Eastern Europe”.
At the session, students will be allowed to choose a breakout room of the faculty member they would like to hear. Please be sure to register in advance. Attendance will be taken based on in event polling followed by attendance reflection questions that are sent to your inbox if you responded to the poll and attended the entire event.
SPEL presents Dr. Benjamin Powell: Socialism Sucks
Monday, March 22
4:30 PM
Virtual Event
SPEL invites you to hear Dr. Benjamin Powell, Professor of Economics, Texas Tech University and co-author of Socialism Sucks: Two Economists Drink Their Way Through the Unfree World. RSVP for the Zoom link at ncstatespel@gmail.com. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Department of History – Complicated Legacies: Race, Space, and White Supremacy in NC State History
Monday, March 22
5:30 – 7:00 PM
Holladay Hall
Across NC State’s history, many Pack members—including powerful decision makers, students, professors, and staff—upheld White Supremacy within and outside the school, while an increasing number of campus community members confronted and disrupted racist hierarchies. This tension remains part of the school’s buildings, from the land on which the structures stand to the names assigned them. Discover the history of that tension on this campus tour. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Women Writers and Historical Fiction
Tuesday, March 23
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join the North Carolina State University Libraries for a conversation between Dr. Lucinda MacKethan and Dr. Deborah Hooker, who will share ideas on the topic of women writing historical fiction. Dr. MacKethan has recently published a biography, Anya Seton: A Writing Life, which explores the personal and professional struggles of this bestselling author of historical novels dating from 1941 to 1972. Seton’s life, as woman and writer, thus can provide an entree into several other related issues, starting with American publishing practices at mid-century, especially as these affected women. Since Seton’s novels were deemed historical romances, her work also leads naturally into a consideration of popular Romance fiction, so often a category into which women writers were relegated. How should the Romance genre itself be evaluated today? Also noteworthy is the overriding influence of male scholars and critics who became the arbiters of literary taste beginning in the 1940s. A final question for all of us to reflect upon: What are our expectations when we read historical novels? Are they, and is history itself, gendered in ways seldom acknowledged? Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Scholars Forum Film Series: 28 Days Later
Tuesday, March 23
6:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join Ken Johnson for a screening of a critically acclaimed film followed by discussion questions and analysis. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Latin Social Dance Class with Ballet Hispanico
Tuesday, March 23
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
NC State LIVE and the Dance Program have joined forces to bring you a Latin Social Dance Class with Ballet Hispánico. The Zoom class, taught by members of this world-renowned company, features salsa, merengue, Afro-Cuban, and other Latin dance forms. This class is open to all ages and abilities. Feel free to come solo or bring a partner! Space is limited and advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
University Theatre presents Elizabeth Mak
Tuesday, March 23
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Elizabeth Mak — Singapore-born, New York City based lighting and media designer whose practice as an artist is rooted in using various forms of visual storytelling to create immersive and experiential works that address issues of social justice. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
“What’s the Big Deal with Hemp?”
Tuesday, March 23
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual event – Join the conversation at https://youtu.be/6OCOmtdqOZY
The Agriculture Forum is an annual event that corresponds with Alpha Zeta’s tradition of Agriculture Awareness Week. This year, we will be discussing the “Big Deal” with North Carolina’s growing Hemp industry with some of the state’s most notable experts whose knowledge range from hemp law, growing, and distribution. We will be answering some common questions and will also allow for a brief Q&A between our live streaming audience and our panelists! Make sure to come out that night and learn something new about agriculture! Join the conversation here on the day and time of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
Moise A. Khayrallah Center for Lebanese Diaspora Studies – Conversation with Safia Elhillo
Tuesday, March 23
6:30 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
The Khayrallah Center invites to an evening of poetry and conversation with Sudanese American poet Safia Elhillo as she explores issues of the troubled relationship between Arab identity and race/racism. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
2021 Don C. Locke Symposium featuring National Academy of Education President, Gloria Ladson-Billings
Wednesday, March 24
4:30 – 6:00 PM
Virtual Event
The U.S. is experiencing 4 pandemics—COVID, racism/White supremacy, impending economic collapse, and environmental catastrophe—over which we seem to be in denial. These pandemics serve as a real and present threat to our democracy because they encourage national anxiety and uncertainty. However, these perceived threats also offer us an opportunity. This opportunity is to reset our approach to education where we can consider an education that truly prepares students for active engagement in a dynamic, diverse democracy. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
Burning Coal Theatre – SEA WALL by Simon Stephens
Wednesday, March 24
6:00 – 8:00 PM
Virtual Event
The playwright who wrote The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime comes in with a much different tale. A man alone with his thoughts. Something has happened to him. Something life-changing. He feels that he must tell it. We feel that we must listen. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
NC Museum of Art: Art, Death, and Rebirth
Wednesday, March 24
7:00 – 8:00 PM
Virtual Event
Tune in to NCMA in Dialogue for thought-provoking conversations with artists, musicians, and filmmakers as we approach the timely and important topics of society and culture and explore how creatives are using the arts as a tool for change in the world. Advance registration is required. You will receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
Honors and Scholars Village – Campus Conversations: Faith In Politics
Wednesday, March 24
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event – Zoom link
What does the separation of church and state mean to you? Is there ever a time that religion has a place in politics? What has been your experience (if any) with faith in politics? You do not need to be religious to participate. Please join Campus Conversations as we discuss Faith in Politics. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
Department of Nuclear Engineering 2021 Distinguished Executive Lecture
Dr. Sama Bilbao y Leon: Global perspective on the status of nuclear engineering
Thursday, March 25
12:00 – 1:15 PM
Virtual Event – Register here
Sama Bilbao y León became the Director-General of the World Nuclear Association in October 2020. Previously, and since June 2018, she was Head of the Division of Nuclear Technology Development and Economics at the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency. In her role at the NEA, she led a team of analysts responsible for providing Member Countries with authoritative studies in the intersection of technology, innovation and economics in support of their energy policy decision-making. Since January 2020, she was also Head of the Technical Secretariat for the Generation IV International Forum (GIF). Advance registration is required. You will receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
UHSP Alumni Stories – Dr. Veronica Catete
Thursday, March 25
4:30 – 5:30 PM
Virtual Event – Register here
The UHSP has amazing alumni who “Think and Do” extraordinary things after leaving NC State. Each semester we invite a variety of alumni to speak to you about their experiences in the “real world” after college; from graduate and professional schools to careers and unique adventures they’ve had. This session will feature Dr. Veronica Catete, Research Scientist, NCSU Department of Computer Science. You must register in advance for this event. Attendance will be managed by the Scholars Forum Assistants during the event
NCSU Leadership and Civic Engagement – Imposter Syndrome
Thursday, March 25
6:00 – 8:00 PM
Virtual Event
Imposter Syndrome is “commonly understood as a false and sometimes crippling belief that one’s successes are the product of luck or fraud rather than skill.” Imposter Syndrome greatly impacts people from marginalized communities, including women and people of color, and many people in leadership positions report dealing with the effects of Imposter Syndrome. This session will explore strategies for leaders to affirm their skills and abilities in order to overcome Imposter Syndrome and lead with confidence. Advance registration is required. You will receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
NCMA Virtual Humber Lecture; A Century of Women: The NCMA’s Collection of Female Artists
Thursday, March 25
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event
Women artists have been marginalized for centuries and underrepresented in most museums, including the NCMA. The Museum is working to challenge and change this oversight across the collection. Jennifer Dasal, curator of modern and contemporary art, shares some of her favorite works by women artists in the collection and speaks about the NCMA’s ongoing efforts to expand the representation of women and other diverse creators. Advance registration is required. You will receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
Student Food and Housing Insecurity at NC State
Thursday, March 25
2:00 PM
A 2017 study showed that 14% of NC State students were food insecure in the past 30 days and 9.6% had experienced homelessness in the past year. Food and housing insecurity has a hugely detrimental impact on student mental health, nutrition, perseverance and ultimately graduation.
Studies also show that lower-income and first-generation students are much more likely to be adversely affected by the unexpected costs encountered while attending college and most at-risk of dropping out altogether due to financial challenges.
Join us for a panel discussion featuring Dr. Mary Haskett (Psychology Professor and Co-Chair of the NC State Student Food and Housing Security Initiative), author and filmmaker Diane Nilan (Dismazed and Driven: My Look at Family Homelessness in America) and recent graduate and local advocate, Indira Gutierrez. Join the conversation here on the day and time of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated took place.
A/V Geeks at the Hunt Library – Let’s Talk About Air Pollution
Friday, March 26
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join A/V Geeks founder and NC State alumnus Skip Elsheimer, and Aranzazu Lascuain of the Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center, for vintage and educational films about our changing climate and weather. Advance registration is not required. Simply visit https://www.facebook.com/avgeeks at the date and time listed above to participate in the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Benjamin Franklin Scholars – Engineering Ethics Lecture
Friday, March 26
4:00 – 5:30 PM
Virtual event: go.ncsu.edu/bfs-zoom
Jared Owens, an NCSU alum, will be speaking about engineering ethics. His talk will focus on the Challenger Space Shuttle Disaster, the 35th anniversary of which was this past January, as well as other major engineering disasters in history, such as Deepwater Horizon and Chernobyl. He will examine the impacts of these disasters and discuss the responsibility of engineers to approach their work in an ethical manner. This event is a great opportunity to get more involved in interdisciplinary studies at NC State and for engineering students to learn more about the ethics involved with their future careers. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.

Scholars Forum presents: Shelton Speaker Series with Leslie Beyer
Monday, March 29
3:00 – 4:50 PM
Virtual Event
Please join us for the third event of the Shelton Speaker Series, a partnership with the University Honors and Scholars Programs. This semester we are excited to announce that Leslie Beyer, CEO of the Energy Workforce & Technology Council, will be joining us to discuss her professional journey across the public, private, and non-profit sectors and what she has learned about how to lead through change. Advance registration is required. Attendance will be taken using a combination of in-event polling, and post-event reflection questions that will be sent directly to your ncsu.edu email address after you respond to the poll.
University Theatre presents Lauren Van Hemert
Tuesday, March 30
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Virtual Event
Lauren Van Hemert – Chief executive officer of RDU on Stage, former contributing editor for Broadway World Raleigh, and member of the American Theatre Critics Association. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Campus History Series – Asian and Asian American History at NC State
Wednesday, March 31
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
In celebration of Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month (APIDAHM), Victor Betts of NC State University Libraries will show and discuss archival materials about the history of Asian and Asian American students, faculty and staff at NC State. The program is presented in collaboration with Multicultural Student Affairs and the Alumni Association. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Dance – The Against the Railing Immigration Project with Tara Mullins
Wednesday, March 31
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
Tara Mullins first choreographed Against the Railing in 2007. At the time, it was about her grandmother’s journey from Sicily to New York in the early 1900s. Her grandmother left behind her parents and worked on the factory lines to make a better life for her children. With the current conversations about immigration, Mullins decided to expand the piece to include more sections, as well as filmed immigration stories from NC State faculty, staff and students. The inspiration for these videos came from Minnesota’s Immigrant Stories. These interviews became a stand alone project. In this discussion you will watch some of the interviews and Mullins will discuss the process, and her hopes for the future of the project.” Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
The Crafts Center Handbuilding Clay Workshop
Thursday, April 1
3:00 – 5:00 PM
In-person event
Join us at the NC State Crafts Center to learn the basics of handbuilding with clay and make a piece to carry home with you. This is an in-person event and individuals must adhere to NC State covid community standards. There are 5 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Morgan Budzynski will manage attendance.
Fermentology Mini-Seminars: The Evolution of Sour Taste in Hominids
Thursday, April 1
4:00 – 5:30 PM
Virtual Event
Rob will begin with a discussion of ongoing work he, along with Mick Demi, Brad Taylor, and Ben Reading are doing on the evolution of taste. He will then focus on the evolution of sour taste. Rob will discuss new insights into when and why sour taste evolved, when and why sour tastes became attractive to our ancestors and how sour taste helped early humans (and before them Homo erectus) begin to ferment foods. Rob Dunn is the author of Never Home Alone and the forthcoming book with Monica Sanchez, The Nature of Flavor (Princeton University Press). Please register in advance to attend the virtual talks by filling in this form. Even if you were registered before – please re-register. You will then receive a zoom link on the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NC State’s 31st Annual Powwow – Grand Opening
Saturday, April 3
10:30 – 11:30 AM
Virtual Event – Zoom link
Powwows are social gatherings of hundreds of Native Americans who follow dances started centuries ago by their ancestors and that continually evolve to include contemporary aspects. These events of feasting, drum music and dance are attended by Natives and non-Natives, all of whom join in the dancing and take advantage of the opportunity to see old friends and teach the traditional ways to a younger generation. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Arts NC State and Scholars Forum present Arturo O’Farrill – “Art as Global Citizenry”
Monday, April 5
3:00 – 4:50 PM
Virtual Event – register here
This lecture is designed to challenge the notion that Jazz is strictly an American invention, that in fact it is antithetical to its essence to nationalize it. We will examine this music as an inheritance of Africa, a response to a cataclysm called the slave trade and a dignified gift of love and generosity in return for brutality and violence. Filtered through and influenced by all of the Americas, it is best exemplified as a global experiment in human freedom and triumph over oppression. Advance registration is required. Attendance will be taken using a combination of in-event polling, and post-event reflection questions that will be sent directly to your ncsu.edu email address after you respond to the poll.
An Afternoon on the Challenge Course
Monday, April 5
2:30 – 6:30 PM
In-person event and wearing a mask is required to participate.
Join the UHSP and Campus Recreation for a thrilling afternoon of adventure at the NC State Challenge Course located in Schenk Forest. The group will participate in various outdoor activities including icebreakers, problem-solving initiatives, and an exploration of the high-ropes challenge course. There are 12 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Please note that this in-person event is weather-dependent and takes place outdoors.
Please dress for the weather. You must wear close-toe shoes and bring a water bottle and a snack for yourself. A mask must be worn at all times during this event. The staff person working this event will manage attendance. Students may ride with the UHSP staff person leading this event if they meet at Clark Hall at the time indicated in the event description.
Students may provide their own transportation to this event if they arrive at the destination at 2:50 PM at the NC State Challenge Course at Schenk Forest.
Hungry for Change: Fighting for Progress in North Carolina Through Agriculture
Tuesday, April 6
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Virtual event – register here
Building a more just, sustainable, and equitable future for all North Carolinians is possible through reforming our state’s agricultural industry. The path to progress means coming to terms with the social, economic, and environmental justice implications of public policy governing agriculture, including addressing disparities in funding, legal protections, and advancement opportunities for BIPOC producers- specifically those in the Southeast- throughout history. Never before have we been so desperate and starved for authentic leaders who can act decisively and in a way that is supportive of our diverse communities and inclusive values. It’s no secret that the world is changing and it’s past-time for our state to change with it. Learn why you should advocate for hemp and cannabis legalization- as well as the necessity for equity in licensing, production, and retailing of the crop; get the recipe for addressing child hunger and fight for food justice; build power around a more resilient local food economy that supports small, family farmers over consolidation; combat climate change; and more. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Honors and Scholars Village – Around Us Film Series: Animated Short Night!
Tuesday, April 6
6:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event – Zoom link
In this installment of Around Us, we will be watching and discussing animated shorts sent in by students! Through this, we will show the power that animated films have, and how these shorts appeal to our emotions and this semester’s greater theme of culture/folklore/mythology. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Scholars Forum Film Series: Virus
Tuesday, April 6
6:00 – 9:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join Ken Johnson for a screening of the critically acclaimed film, Virus, followed by discussion questions and analysis. Virus is a real life account of the deadly Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala, and the courageous fight put on by several individuals in an attempt to contain the virus. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Campus Conversations Project: Righteousness and Relationship
Tuesday, April 6
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Virtual event – register here
Trained student volunteers from the Campus Conversation Project will facilitate a discussion on righteousness and relationships. This session is open to NC State students. No prior preparation is required, but come prepared to respectfully listen and share. Description of the topic: Name-calling all across the political spectrum has us caught in a culture war where we are all losing. Losing friends, losing family, losing the ability to solve problems in a way that respects and honors the needs of everyone affected. How do we change this dynamic? Is there a way for us to tap into the kindness and goodwill that we’ve seen in friends across the political spectrum? The guide for this talk is here (opens a Google Doc). Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
UHSP Alumni Stories featuring Loren Reese
Wednesday, April 7
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
The UHSP has amazing alumni who “Think and Do” extraordinary things after leaving NC State. Each semester we invite a variety of alumni to speak to you about their experiences in the “real world” after college; from graduate and professional schools to careers and unique adventures they’ve had. Join your Scholars Forum Assistants and Loren Reese to discuss conservation for the Peace Corps. Attendance will be managed during the event by the Scholars Forum Assistants. Advance registration is required.
NCSU Dance – The Hierarchy of Curricula within University Dance Departments
Wednesday, April 7
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
Does university dance curricula force every dancing body into one system, or does it adjust to allow dancers to be adaptable thoughtful movers? How does prioritizing hierarchy within the overall structure of a university affect dance departments? Join faculty members and professional artists Christal Brown, Robin Gee, Francine Ott, and Clarice Young in a conversation about the hierarchy of dance practice within their own college educations, as well as within the departments in which they currently work. They will consider what has changed and what has not. The panel will also discuss how this is reflected in the professional dance field. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Honors and Scholars Village Campus Conversations: Social Identity
Wednesday, April 7
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Virtual Event – Zoom link
Social identity refers to the part of self-concept you get from belonging to different social groups and can be used to explain intergroup behavior. Social identities often lead to comparison, judgment, and avoidance of other groups. Apparent or assumed differences can be emphasized and overemphasized creating barriers to understanding and relationship with other perceived groups. This is designed to explore our own social identities and the ways belonging to specific groups can influence interaction between people and affect divides in our society. We’ve invited a few faculty/faculty to join our small breakout groups as participants in the discussion. Please join Campus Conversations and honors seminar instructor guests as we discuss Social Identity. No advance registration is required. Simply follow the Zoom link above at the date and time listed. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Making Space: A Conversation and Workshop on Digital Accessibility with Ablr Founder John Samuel
Thursday, April 8
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual event – Register here
John Samuel will speak about his career path journey to becoming the co-founder and CEO of Ablr, a digital accessibility and inclusion company based in the Triangle. Please register here to participate in the discussion. The link for the discussion can be found here.
Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NC State Sustainability Stewards’ Environmental Justice Committee – Social Enterprise as a Platform for Food Justice
Thursday, April 8
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Virtual Event
Presented by: Erin White, Founder of Community Food Lab. The Raleigh-based design firm, Community Food Lab, will be presented as an example of a creative model for food justice, where for-profit business activity supports and aligns with mission-driven outcomes. Key projects, big ideas, and lessons learned over eight years of operations will be shared. Other small business examples will be included to help expand the sense of possible routes to making change in food justice. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Film Screening: Beasts of No Nation
Thursday, April 8
6:30 – 8:00 PM
Virtual Event – register here
Presenting the story of a young boy who becomes a child soldier amidst conflict in West Africa, Beasts of No Nation displays the tragic costs of war that are very real to many individuals around the world. Starring Abraham Attah and Idris Elba in leading roles, the film is based on a novel of the same name from 2005, written by Uzodinma Iweala, a Nigerian-American author. Beasts of No Nation is a thought-provoking film that connects strongly to topics such as education in armed conflict and international humanitarian law, which will be discussed briefly after the film. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
PBS North Carolina, NC Science Festival and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences – Ken Burns—THE GENE: An Intimate History—screening and virtual panel discussion
Thursday, April 8
7:00 – 9:00 PM
Virtual Event
The Gene: An Intimate History, a major new documentary from Ken Burns and Barak Goodman, tells the story of the stunning revolution in genetics that is transforming medical science through the experience of patients and scientists leading the search for cures to some of the world’s rarest and most complex diseases. Following the screening, participate in a panel discussion and audience Q & A with an esteemed group of panelists moderated by PBS North Carolina’s Frank Graff, producer/host of SCI NC and PBS North Carolina’s original science content, for a lively and informative discussion. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
The Crafts Center Fused Glass Workshop
Friday, April 9
1:00 – 3:30 PM
In-person event
Join us at the NC State Crafts Center to learn the basics of fused glass craft work and make a piece to call your own. This is an in-person event and individuals must adhere to NC State covid community standards. There are 4 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Eileen Tan will manage attendance for this event.
Black Food Sovereignty and Resiliency
Friday, April 9
2:00 – 3:30 PM
Virtual event – register here
The Black community has a long history of engagement in Civil Rights struggle in this country. The Black farming community has undergirded our freedom dreams and built our land commons. Black food sovereignty provides the framework to ensure control of our food supply and build our self-determining food economies within a system that protects our environment, foodways, and agrarian culture. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Empowering the Community Creates Sustainable and Equitable Food Systems
Friday, April 9
4:00 – 4:45 PM
Virtual event – register here
The Inter-Faith Food Shuttle is a local hunger-relief organization focused on creating innovative solutions to hunger. The Food Shuttle puts education at the forefront of all their programming to make lasting and sustainable change in the community. Its newest program, Gardens For Everyone, tackles food insecurity by building affordable garden boxes for individuals, families, and organizations in Wake and Durham County, particularly for populations in food deserts. The Gardens For Everyone program aims to empower people through education and the opportunity to grow their own food at home. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Scholars Forum Breakouts
Monday, April 12
3:00 PM – 4:50 PM
Virtual Event – register here
Join the staff of the UHSP for a variety of smaller group breakout events today. Full details and sign-up coming soon. Advance registration is required. Attendance will be taken using a combination of in-event polling, and post-event reflection questions that will be sent directly to your ncsu.edu email address after you respond to the poll.
An Afternoon on the Challenge Course
CANCELED
Monday, April 12
2:30 – 6:30 PM
In-person event and wearing a mask is required to participate.
Join the UHSP and Campus Recreation for a thrilling afternoon of adventure at the NC State Challenge Course located in Schenk Forest. The group will participate in various outdoor activities including icebreakers, problem-solving initiatives, and an exploration of the high-ropes challenge course. There are 12 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Please note that this in-person event is weather-dependent and takes place outdoors.
Please dress for the weather. You must wear close-toe shoes and bring a water bottle and a snack for yourself. A mask must be worn at all times during this event. The staff person working this event will manage attendance. Students may ride with the UHSP staff person leading this event if they meet at Clark Hall at the time indicated in the event description.
Students may provide their own transportation to this event if they arrive at the destination at 2:50 PM at the NC State Challenge Course at Schenk Forest.
Financial Literacy Month Events – NerdWallet’s Personal Financial Expert Liz Weston
Tuesday, April 13
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Virtual Event
PNC Bank and Dollars and Sense at NC State are pleased to host financial speaker Liz Weston to NC State!
Liz Weston is NerdWallet’s personal finance expert and co-host of its weekly Smart Money podcast. She’s a Certified Financial Planner® and author of five money books including the best-selling “Your Credit Score.” She has appeared on CNBC, “NBC Nightly News,” the “Today” show, “Dr. Phil” and numerous radio shows, including American Public Media’s “Marketplace”; NPR’s “All Things Considered,” “Talk of the Nation” and “On Point”; and KPCC’s “Air Talk.” Her columns are carried by The Associated Press and the Los Angeles Times, among other outlets. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and daughter.
Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
How International Law Attempts to Protect A Child’s Right to Education w/ Chris Jorgensen
Tuesday, April 13
6:00 – 7:00 PM
Virtual Event
Chris Jorgensen serves as the Legal Advisor about International Humanitarian Law at the National Headquarters of the American Red Cross. During this event, Jorgensen will discuss research related to education during armed conflicts and talk about the international response to the usage of schools and universities by militia groups. Please join us for Jorgensen’s presentation, followed by a question-and-answer session! Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
University Theatre – Strictly Speaking: Annalisa Mickelson: FREELANCE PRODUCER, EVENT SPECIALIST, AND MARKETING DIRECTOR
CANCELED
Tuesday, April 13
6:00 – 7:00 PM
Virtual Event
University Theatre hosts professional theatre makers to speak about their work, their industry and their journey within the arts. Speakers will take questions from attendees during this one-hour interactive zoom conversation. Advance registration is required. Zoom links will be sent to attendees beginning 48-hours prior to the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Scholars Forum Film Series
Tuesday, April 13
6:00 – 9:00 PM
Virtual Event
Join Ken Johnson for a screening of the critically acclaimed film, followed by discussion questions and analysis. Advance registration is required. You will receive a zoom link after you register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Financial Literacy Month Events – 7 Steps to Living a Richer Life After College
Tuesday, April 13
7:00 – 8:00 PM
Virtual Event
This year’s event will be completely virtual and hosted by an award-winning teacher of financial education, Tiffany Alice, aka “The Budgetnista.” In Tiffany’s 45 minute presentation, “7 Steps to Living a Richer Life After College,” she plans to show students and viewers how easy it is to manage money and get on the path to success.
Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Dance – Arts, Activism and Public Health with Nancy Epstein and Clara Pinsky
Wednesday, April 14
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
Community-based arts have long exposed and addressed root causes of ill health, such as poverty, social inequality and structural racism, and provided creative strategies for protest, resistance, and change. In today’s world, they are more vital than ever for promoting public health. Join Professor Nancy Epstein of Drexel University’s Dornsife School of Public Health and Drexel graduate student Clara Pinsky for a discussion of their work in the growing field of arts in public health. Learn about how Drexel is pioneering a new, interdisciplinary graduate minor in arts and health, hear innovative project examples from the field of community-based dance, and join in reflection on how artists can play an essential role in promoting public health, social justice, and equity. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Student Work in Progress: The Change We Seek: Animated Oral Histories
Wednesday, April 14
2:00 – 3:00 PM
Virtual Event – join here
This new occasional series gives NC State students a platform to share their work in progress, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at how their academics, research and creativity come together. In this inaugural program, Darrien Bailey, NC State Masters of Art and Design graduate student, will discuss his ongoing project “The Change We Seek: Animated Oral Histories.” In the wake of significant moments of racial injustice in America, scholars and artists are re-imaging traditional educational tools that discuss racial topics. Thus, this Work in Progress (currently named The Change We Seek) explores how historical materials, such as oral history, can better inform the public on issues of systemic racism and race. Advance registration is not required, simply join the event at the date and time listed above. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NC State LIVE – Ephrat Asherie Dance – Choreographers with Cocktails & Mocktails
Wednesday, April 14
5:30 – 6:30 PM
Virtual Event
Join NC State LIVE on Zoom for a happy hour event we’re calling “Choreographers with Cocktails & Mocktails.” Together with Artistic Director, Ephrat Asherie, we’ll watch a preview of her recent work, Odeon, and have a discussion of the creative process with Ephrat and her brother and collaborator, jazz pianist Ehud Asherie. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Pan-Afrikan Week Keynote with Angela Rye
Wednesday, April 14
6:00 – 7:00 PM
Virtual Event – register here
Come hear Angela Rye speak about the importance of Pan-Africanism and what it means for the Black community! This event is hosted by the UAB Black Students Board. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Fermentology Mini-Seminars: The Neanderthal’s Cookbook
Thursday, April 15
1:00 – 2:00 PM
Virtual Event – register here
Join Rob Dunn and Rebecca Wragg Sykes to learn some Neanderthal recipes! Wragg Sykes has recently published the acclaimed and award winning, best-selling book, Kindred, a definitive account of the lives of the Neanderthals based on the most up-to-date archaeological discoveries. Dunn, who has, along with Monica Sanchez, just published a new book about the evolution of flavor and its role in human evolution, Delicious, will talk to Wragg Sykes about Neanderthal cooking, tastes and the extent to which Neanderthals had local culinary cultures. Wragg Sykes and Dunn close their conversation with a recipe for a Neanderthal-inspired mixed drink. Please register to attend the virtual talks by filling in this form. Even if you were registered before – please re-register. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Documentary Film Screening – The Biggest Little Farm
Thursday, April 15th to noon on Saturday, April 17th
Virtual Event – register here
As we approach Earth Day 2021, the NC State University Libraries is pleased to host an online screening of The Biggest Little Farm. The film “chronicles the eight-year quest of John and Molly Chester as they trade city living for 200 acres of barren farmland and a dream to harvest in harmony with nature. Through dogged perseverance and embracing the opportunity provided by nature’s conflicts, the Chester’s unlock and uncover a biodiverse design for living that exists far beyond their farm, its seasons, and our wildest imagination.” The film will be available to view online through a Vimeo link from noon on Thursday, April 15th to noon on Saturday, April 17th. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Tour the City of Raleigh Museum
Friday, April 16
2:30 – 4:30 PM
In-person Event
Meet at the UHSP Office on the 2nd Floor of Clark Hall (Entrance from the Quad)
Join the UHSP for a tour of the City of Raleigh Museum and a short walking tour of nearby historic points of interest. Dress for the weather. Since this is an in-person event, participants must adhere to NC State community safety guidelines including wearing a mask at all times and maintaining social distancing. There are 6 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Madison Horgan will manage attendance using the Scholars Forum attendance cards.
A/V Geeks at the Hunt Library
Friday, April 16
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Virtual Event – join here
Join A/V Geeks founder and NC State alumnus Skip Elsheimer, and zoologist Jenny Campbell in the Department of Biological Sciences as they screen and discuss vintage films about zoos and animals. Advance registration is not required. Simply visit https://www.facebook.com/avgeeks at the date and time listed above in order to participate. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
A Morning Bike Ride
Saturday, April 17
9:50 – 11:20 AM
Meet at the Outdoor Adventures Garage behind Carmichael Recreation Center at the time listed above.
In-person event and wearing a mask and bike helmet are required to participate.
Join the amazing staff of Campus Recreation for a morning bike ride on one of Raleigh’s famous Greenway paths. You do not need to own your own bike for this event but you must know how to ride a bike in order to participate. There are 8 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. The staff person managing the event will handle attendance. Please dress for the weather.
University Theatre: Devised Theatre Project
Saturday, April 17
2:00 – 4:00 PM
In-person, outdoor event – register here
In a student-written performance piece, students will explore themes of isolation and anxiety in a collage of scenes and songs – reflecting on the events of 2020 and how their world has changed. Directed by Lormarev Jones, with assistant direction and dramaturgy by Griffin James, a UT alum and member of the class of 2020. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
University Theatre: Devised Theatre Project
Saturday, April 17
5:00 – 7:00 PM
In-person, outdoor event – register here
In a student-written performance piece, students will explore themes of isolation and anxiety in a collage of scenes and songs – reflecting on the events of 2020 and how their world has changed. Directed by Lormarev Jones, with assistant direction and dramaturgy by Griffin James, a UT alum and member of the class of 2020. Advance registration is required. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
North Carolina Museum of Art – Golden Mummies of Egypt Exhibition
Sunday, April 18
1:30 – 3:30 PM
Meet at Clark Hall Lounge
In-person event and wearing a mask is required to participate.
Ancient lives, eternal gold. This exhibition presents eight extraordinary, gilded mummies and more than 100 related objects, including papyri, jewelry, ceramics, and deity works that connect the daily lives of these Greco-Roman Egyptians to the religious world of the gods. There are 4 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Katie Clark will manage attendance.
Fermentology Mini-seminars: A Neanderthal Cook-A-Long
Monday, April 19
12:30 – 1:30 PM
Virtual Event – Join here
Rebecca Wragg Sykes and Rob Dunn will return, this time along with food writer, food stylist and cookery teacher Anna Burges-Lumsden. Anna will walk listeners through a Neanderthal inspired meal. As she does, Wragg Sykes and Dunn will highlight additional details about what we do and don’t about how Neanderthals prepared and enjoyed their meals. Anna’s recipes will be chosen so that they can be made at home. The event can be livestreamed here. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
NCSU Dance – Creative Process: Designing For Dance with Adrienne McKenzie and Joshua Reaves
Wednesday, April 21
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
Tara Mullins will facilitate a discussion with costume designer Adrienne McKenzie, and lighting designer and director of University Theatre, Joshua Reaves, around the creative process of designing for dance. How do these designers get their ideas? How do they work with choreographers to tell the story of the dance? How do they regroup when something isn’t working? How is it different than designing for other types of theatrical productions? Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Campus History Series – Technician 100 Panel Discussion
Wednesday, April 21
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual event – Register here for event details
A century after its founding, NC State’s oldest student newspaper is still going strong, providing valuable experiences for students and innovating for a new era. Join students and alumni who have worked on the Technician to learn more about the last one hundred years of the paper, what challenges student media faces today, and where it might be headed in the future. Click here to be notified when registration goes live. In order to receive credit for attending the event, you must complete these reflection questions no later than the Sunday on which this event took place.
Scholars Forum Assistants host National Tea Day Celebration
Wednesday, April 21
1:30 – 2:30 PM
Honors and Scholars Village Quad
Join the Scholars Forum Assistants in the HSV Quad to learn about National Tea day, benefits associated with drinking tea, and tea culture through group discussion, fun fact sheets, bingo, and cornhole with tea bags and mugs. Refreshments from Bumble Tea and Insomnia Cookies will be provided. Participants must follow University mask mandates and safety protocols. There are 20 spaces available for this event. Advance registration is required. Attendance will be managed by the Scholars Forum Assistants.
Campus Conversation: Protecting Education in War
Wednesday, April 21
7:00 to 8:30 PM EST
Virtual Event – Register here
The Campus Conversations Project seeks to inform students about societal issues by creating spaces for civic conversation. In this Campus Conversation, we will look into current events surrounding education in war; learn and talk about existing international measures, as well as improvements that could be made; and see what we can do to (a) prevent further human rights violations and (b) educate those around us about international humanitarian law. We hope to see you there! Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Carolina Ballet presents Mozart: Symphony No. 40
Wednesday, April 21
7:30 PM
Virtual Event
This additional offering will include a re-envisioned Mozart: Symphony No. 40, choreographed by Carolina Ballet Artistic Director Zalman Raffael, alongside Robert Weiss’ Les Saltimbanques and the pas de deux from August Bournonville’s Flower Festival in Genzano. There are 10 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to receive credit for attending the event, you must complete these reflection questions no later than the Sunday on which this event took place.
The Crafts Center Byzantine Bracelet Workshop
Thursday, April 22
1:00 – 3:00 PM
In-person event
Join us at the NC State Crafts Center for a chance to learn to make your own metal chain link bracelet in a Byzantine style. This is an in-person event and individuals must adhere to NC State covid community standards. There are 4 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. Attendance will be managed by Sydney Gyurek.
University Theatre – Strictly Speaking: Jen Dasher: COSTUME DESIGNER
Thursday, April 22
6:00 – 7:00 PM
Virtual Event
University Theatre hosts professional theatre makers to speak about their work, their industry and their journey within the arts. Speakers will take questions from attendees during this one-hour interactive zoom conversation. Advance registration is required. Zoom links will be sent to attendees beginning 48-hours prior to the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
Scholars Forum Assistants host Earth Day Observance
Friday, April 23
2:00 – 3:30 PM
Pullen Park, Shelter 5
Join the Scholars Forum Assistants for an observance of Earth Day and a discussion about environmental justice and sustainablity. During this discussion, students will repurpose old records into their own works of art. Refreshments will be served. Participants must follow University mask mandates and safety protocols. There are 15 spaces available for this event. Advance registration is required. Attendance will be managed by the Scholars Forum Assistants.
Rise and Climb at Carmichael Gym
Saturday, April 24
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
This is an in-person event and requires participants to adhere to NC State Covid guidelines. Meet us at the Carmichael Rock Wall at the start time listed above.
Join us this morning for a chance to wake up with a challenge on the newly installed NC State climbing wall at Carmichael Gym. This is sure to get our neurons and muscles alive, awake, and activated. There are 7 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. In order to participate in this event, you must follow NC State Covid guidelines by wearing a mask at all times and maintaining social distance. Alisa Andrews will manage attendance.
NCSU Dance – Students In Response – The Election and Political Climate
Wednesday, April 28
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual Event
This virtual roundtable will center around student artists within the dance community at NC State. Presenters will discuss the election of 2020 and the artistic projects they created that helped them to express their viewpoints. Advance registration is required. You will then receive a Zoom link the day of the event. In order to get credit for attending this event, you must respond to these reflection questions no later than the Sunday of the week in which the event you participated in took place.
North Carolina Museum of Art – Golden Mummies of Egypt Exhibition
Wednesday, April 28
2:30 – 4:30 PM
Meet at Clark Hall Lounge
In-person event and wearing a mask is required to participate.
Ancient lives, eternal gold. This exhibition presents eight extraordinary, gilded mummies and more than 100 related objects, including papyri, jewelry, ceramics, and deity works that connect the daily lives of these Greco-Roman Egyptians to the religious world of the gods. There are 4 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. The staff person managing the event will handle attendance.
A Morning Bike Ride
Saturday, May 1
9:50 – 11:20 AM
Meet at the Outdoor Adventures Garage behind Carmichael Recreation Center at the time listed above.
In-person event; wearing a mask and bike helmets are required to participate.
Join the amazing staff of Campus Recreation for a morning bike ride on one of Raleigh’s famous Greenway paths. You do not need to own your own bike for this event but you must know how to ride a bike in order to participate. There are 8 spaces available for this event and advance registration is required. The staff person leading this event will manage attendance.
Citizen Science Project
Visit the Citizen Science website using the below link and register for a project that interests you.
https://www.citizenscience.gov/catalog/#
Submit and analyze data points based on what your specific project requires. After completing your project, answer the following reflection questions in 500 words. Which citizen science project did you choose? Why did you choose this specific project? Share your data points or a link to your project. Does your project relate to your major? If so, how does your participation in this project help to complement your classwork? If your project does not relate to your major, how do you think that this experience could translate to your field of study? How do you think citizen science projects are beneficial to your community? You can submit your response to this asynchronous event prompt here.
Women in Power Playlist
Begin by watching the TED Talk from H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf entitled “How women will lead us to freedom, justice and peace” https://www.ted.com/talks/h_e_ellen_johnson_sirleaf_how_women_will_lead_us_to_freedom_justice_and_peace/up-next
Create a playlist of 5-7 songs that you think represent Sirleaf’s discussion and argument. List the songs and artists you have chosen. In 500 words, explain why you chose the songs on your playlist. Provide an explanation to support your selections by discussing: the lyrics from each song and demonstrate how they fit the context of the TED Talk. Be specific when drawing these connections. Describe the language the artist uses and what images they evoke, emotions they illicit, and the overall message. Consider the symbols used and how they contribute to the overall tone. Consider the backgrounds of the artists. How do they connect with the TED talk. You can submit your response to this asynchronous event prompt here.
Think critically about an album
Carefully listen to an album of your choosing. Consider the lyrics, themes, references, history, and context of the music. Write at least 500 words about how the music explores current day problems and events. Provide examples from the music and how it reflects and relates to the issues you are addressing. Does the music provide a solution? Does the album address an overarching idea or issue? How does each song build on that idea? You can submit your response to this asynchronous event prompt here.
Bloom and Grow Podcast
Listen to the podcast Hydroponic Gardening 101. Then, using the prompts below, discuss in 500 words.
Think Analytically: With North Carolina being an agricultural state, the introduction of hydroponics has the potential to change the way we think about agriculture. Many of the livelihoods in North Carolina depend upon agriculture in some way, whether that be through farming, selling goods, or management of agriculture. When considering these aspects of agriculture, what do you see are the potential benefits and drawbacks of hydroponics? How could it affect the profession of those in agriculture in NC in a positive way or a negative way? Think Methodologically: One aspect to consider about hydroponics is its ability to overcome the barriers of agriculture. Hydroponics has the capability to be implemented in large cities and dry waste lands while generating high quality produce that provides ample nutrition. Do you think that one day hydroponics will be the main source of produce in large, industrialized cities? How do you see hydroponics interacting with industries such as transportation, retail, and hospitality? Think Creatively: Do you grow any plants? Have you tried hydroponics before, or do you see yourself doing so in the future? How can you implement hydroponics in your apartment/dorm room/etc. given the smaller space or lack of sunlight? How can it improve your quality of life or mental health? You can submit your response to this asynchronous event prompt here.
MoMA’s Private Lives Public Spaces exhibition
View this exhibit at https://www.moma.org/magazine/articles/276
Exhibit description: Home movies are made to entertain intimate audiences of family and friends. MoMA’s exhibition Private Lives Public Spaces, which opened in October 2019, explores a selection of these works from our archives, acquired over 90 years of collecting but never before shown. After reviewing more than 600 reels of film, we digitized 200 to create an immersive display on 102 silent screens in a darkened gallery. While this installation intentionally blurred distinctions between different kinds of home movies, the sampling of some of our favorites that we’ve chosen for this virtual view is presented under three central themes: Celebrity, the Experience of Place, and Family.
Assignment: Watch the introduction video and at least one video from each of the three categories: Celebrity, the Experience of Place, and Family. In 500 words, reflect on why people might have chosen the shots that they did in their home videos and discuss how they turned everyday experiences into an art form. Comment on how the videos vary across the 20th century. Are home movies created now similar to those featured in the exhibit? Are similar things captured on iPhones? How has film changed as it has become more accessible to people? How can these home movies be seen as a continuously evolving and expanding commentary on the human experience? You can submit your response to this asynchronous event prompt here.
SPENT: An online poverty simulation
SPENT is an online poverty simulation launched in February 2011 as a collaboration between McKinney and Urban Ministries of Durham (UMD). This online decision-making “game” invites you to experience poverty and homelessness in an interactive, impactful way. By completing the simulation, you will have the opportunity to learn more about the everyday experience of poverty and UMD’s mission to provide aid for those experiencing homelessness.
Up for the challenge? Play SPENT here: http://playspent.org/ (keep trying until you complete it successfully!), then reflect on the experience by answering one or more of the following questions in 500 words. You can learn more about UMD here: https://umdurham.org/, and if you’re feeling particularly creative and/or generous, check out UMD’s Names for Change initiative here: http://www.namesforchange.org/Intro.
Reflection prompts: How difficult was this simulation to complete successfully? Why? What was one of the harder decisions you had to make when playing this simulation? Why was this decision especially difficult? What unexpected consequences resulted from one or more of the decisions you made? Why did the consequences surprise you? (A list of some of the consequences and fact sources can be found here: http://playspent.org/html/files/sources/umd_spent_sources-2.pdf)What did you learn from this simulation? How will this perspective impact how you interact with the world going forward? Reflect on the phrase “poverty is expensive.” What does that mean? What examples can you think of to support this statement? You can submit your response to this asynchronous event prompt here.
Henrietta Lacks Podcast and response
Listen to the Henrietta Lacks podcast at https://www.wnycstudios.org/podcasts/radiolab/segments/91716-henriettas-tumor
Podcast description: “The extraordinary story of Henrietta Lacks. Though she died of cervical cancer in 1951, she unknowingly held the key to unlocking medical advancements (from polio vaccines to chemotherapy drugs) in her tumor cells. After taking a biopsy of Henrietta’s cervical cancer, researcher Dr. George Gey and his lab assistant Mary Kubicek, discovered that Henrietta’s cells could not only reproduce, but THRIVE outside the body–a breakthrough that would change modern medicine…But who was the long-obscured woman behind these famous cells? And how did Henrietta’s family feel when they learned that part of their mother was still alive? Writer Rebecca Skloot takes us on a journey into Henrietta’s world, with Henrietta’s daughter Deborah as the guide.”
Reflection prompts: Listen to the podcast in its entirety and reflect on it using this prompt. In 500 words, discuss the following questions. In what ways were Henrietta’s cells special and how did they help the scientific community? Do you think it was fair for the scientists to take these cells from Henrietta without her consent and why or why not? What kind of things can we learn from the treatment of the cells and how could we improve the process in the future? How does this story relate to modern-day problems in the scientific community? You can submit your response to this asynchronous event prompt here.
Walk/Hike. Be present. Reflect.
Go on a hike/walk and be present with the nature around you. Note and describe four experiences from your sense of touch, smell, sight, and hearing during your walk/hike. Be descriptive with your observations. Try to really capture exactly what you’re experiencing.
For optimal results, try to limit your distractions for the entire duration of the walk (i.e. no music, podcasts, etc.).
Take pictures of or sketch at least 3 plants or animals on your hike.
When you finish your walk/hike, please write a reflection of at least 500 words. Feel free to be creative!
Suggested walk time: 60 minutes
Reflection prompts: Where did your walk take you both mentally and physically? Do you think the location impacted your thoughts? Did you learn anything about yourself? What did you find yourself thinking about? Did anything on your walk surprise you? What is a sound that stood out to you? Why? What is a smell that stood out to you? Why? What is a sight that you remember particularly well? Describe it. Why was this sight significant? Explain why you chose those particular senses and life to capture in your images and words. Tell us where you went, who you went with, why you chose the place, time, and people you went with. Please include your pictures or drawings but your list of senses is to help you be present and to write about later. The goal of this activity is to both get students outside but also get them to be present in their surroundings and lives. To remove them from the chaos of our everyday lives and simply sit with nature and take it in. You can submit your response to this asynchronous event prompt here.