Coe College Announces 2020-2021 Thursday Forum Virtual Lecture Topics
Coe College is proud to provide the Cedar Rapids community with over 30 years of Thursday Forum. The lecture series is an open invitation for older adults interested in learning from Coe’s elite faculty.
Due to ongoing public health concerns, the 2020-2021Thursday Forum will be offered in a virtual online format. The online forums will be free of charge with an optional contribution to support the program. The 2020-2021 Thursday Forum lecture series includes:
- September: Apocalypticism — Joseph E. McCabe Associate Professor of Religion Meira Kensky will examine apocalyptic literature in Judaism and Christianity. This will study how times of oppression, injustice or instability relates to apocalyptic groups across history.
- October: The 1918 Influenza Pandemic — Associate Professor of History Bethany Keenan will cross analyze the current public health crisis with an overview of the 1918 Spanish Influenza pandemic. The presentation will look into the social and cultural factors that went into the evolution and treatment of the disease, and end with a review of the current pandemic in Cedar Rapids.
- November: Thunder Gods and Flood Stories: A Universal Approach to Mythology? — Associate Professor of History Angela Ziskowski explores the social meaning behind myths, stories and legends that have withstood the test of time. The primary focus will be on ancient Greek and Roman myths but will touch on Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Norse and Native American myths.
- February: Scenic Long-Distance Hikes in the United Kingdom — Emeritus Professor of Biology Floyd Sandford will take individuals on a virtual journey through the most stunning and popular landscapes of Scotland and England. The sessions will also cover the historical background of these destinations including the impact of the English Civil War on Cotswold Villages.
- March: What’s in Your Water? Water Quality in Iowa (and Beyond) — Ben Peterson Professor of Chemistry Marty St. Clair will dive into water quality in Iowa and the history of water technology and regulation in the United States. Discussions will include the impact of pollutants on human health and the environment.
In-person Thursday Forum will resume when it is safe to do so in subsequent seasons.
An optional contribution of any amount can be made at any time at www.alumni.coe.edu/thursdayforum or by mail to Coe College Advancement Services, 1220 1st Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 (please make out checks to “Coe College” and indicate “Thursday Forum” in the memo line).
For more information visit www.coe.edu/thursday-forum.
Coe College offers superb academics and exciting co-curricular activities in a thriving urban setting that promotes student growth and success. Established in 1851, Coe has a national reputation for academic excellence enhanced by a student-centered, highly supportive campus environment. Coe’s vibrant Cedar Rapids location provides an abundance of internships for students and career opportunities for graduates.