"Book Talk with Dr. Scott Moore of the History Department"
September 25, 2024 | Johnson Room - The J. Eugene Smith Library
When Grace Sherwood was "ducked" in the Lynnhaven River during her trial for witchcraft in 1706, she became a foundational part of Virginia’s folklore and culture. People have been sharing stories about “the Witch of Pungo” for generations, and to many she remains “Virginia’s Witch.” In this presentation, Scott Moore will describe the history and cultural impact of Sherwood and her trial as he discusses his new book, The Witch of Pungo: Grace Sherwood in Virginia History and Legend.
Contact: Scott Moore, mooresc@easternct.edu
"Advancing Digital Equity in Connecticut by Doug Casey"
October 16, 2024 | Student Center Theatre
Doug Casey, Executive Director of the Connecticut Commission for Educational Technology, will present the State of Connecticut Digital Equity Plan, which was approved in March 2024. This comprehensive plan was developed to address the growing opportunities and challenges in a society increasingly reliant on digital tools and the skills to use them. The plan aims to ensure that all residents have equitable access to technology and can effectively utilize it for learning, career advancement, accessing state services, improving health and wellness, and fully participating in society. Join us for this exciting University Hour and discover the Digital Initiative created by the State of Connecticut.
Contact: Nicolas Simon, simonn@easternct.edu
"Rethinking the Coloniality of Race in Latin America With Gabriel Salgado"
October 23, 2024 | FAIC Concert Hall
What is the history of race, and how do different ways of narrating this history lead to different conclusions about what it means to be anti-racist today? A prominent group of Latin American scholars, working under the framework of "the coloniality of power," have argued that the concept of race began with Spain's conquest and colonization of the Americas. However, in this talk Salgado suggests that we need to pay attention to the understandings of difference circulating in Spain before 1492 to see how these impacted the development of race. Specifically, he focuses on the concept of "blood purity" policies which targeted Jewish and Muslim converts to Christianity, showing how these were subsequently used against Black and Indigenous peoples in the Spanish Americas.
Contact: Martin Mendoza-Botelho, mendozabotelhom@easternct.edu
"Diasporican: From Dispersion to Integration – exhibition of the National Puerto Rico Diaspora Museum "
October 30, 2024 | FAIC Art Gallery
Victor Pacheco will discuss his artistic practices as member of the local PR diasporic community. He is inspired by research of environmental, social and economic discrepancies. His work will be on display during Diasporican, the exhibition of the National Puerto Rican Diaspora Museum in partnership with Eastern.
Contact: Julia Wintner, wintnerj@easternct.edu
"Ethnic Identity, Social Segregation and the Power of Literature Rodrigo Urquiola"
November 6, 2024 | Student Center Theatre
Victor Pacheco will discuss his artistic practices as member of the local PR diasporic community. He is inspired by research of environmental, social and economic discrepancies. His work will be on display during Diasporican, the exhibition of the National Puerto Rican Diaspora Museum in partnership with Eastern.
Contact: Martin Mendoza-Botelho, mendozabotelhom@easternct.edu
"Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Event with Mary Lou Gannotti"
November 13, 2024 | Student Center Theatre
The purpose and hope of this event is to spread awareness about Alzheimer's disease. During this university hour, there will be a speaker from the Alzheimer's Association. They will explain the causes, preventative measures, and misconceptions about the disease. Towards the end of the University Hour, the presentation will be opened to a discussion. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions and share their stories about Alzheimer's disease. This discussion period hopes to bring people together in the fight against Alzheimer's and show people that they are not alone. Since this event is facilitated by the Alzheimer's Association, attendees will have a chance to learn about the organization and how they can get involved.
Contact: Jennifer Leszczynski, leszczynskij@easternct.edu
"Jazz Pianist: Dave Frank"
December 4, 2024 | FAIC - Room 110
Widely-acclaimed jazz pianist Dave Frank will perform original material in an informal solo piano concert. Drawing on his experiences with Lennie Tristano, Dave creates riveting interpretations of standard and original repertoire. His performances often include a discussions of the art of jazz piano playing.
Contact: Anthony Cornicello, cornicelloa@easternct.edu