UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State Emeritus Academy has launched "Explorations: The Penn State Emeritus Academy Lecture Series." The 2024 fall series will showcase the work of retired faculty members, and will take place at Foster Auditorium in the Pattee-Paterno Library, University Park. A Zoom option is available for each lecture for attendees from across the commonwealth.
This semester’s topics span critical global issues, offering insightful perspectives on democracy, climate change, and national identity. The Penn State community and the public are invited to join these thought-provoking discussions as part of the University's ongoing commitment to academic engagement and the exchange of ideas.
The series is sponsored by the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost, the Office of Faculty Affairs and University Libraries.
The fall schedule for the series is as follows:
Colleen Kelley: “Digital Information Technologies and the Threat to American Democracy”
Sept. 17, 2:30 p.m. — Zoom link
This presentation delves into the impact of digital messaging during the 2024 American campaign cycle, addressing how disinformation threatens the foundation of democratic discourse.
Andrew Carleton, Bill Easterling, Ian Marshall, and David Macauley: “Climate Change and the Environment”
Oct. 15, 2:30 p.m. — Zoom link
This panel discussion explores the far-reaching effects of climate change on various ecosystems and will feature topics on aviation sustainability, food security, and arboreal wisdom.
Arthur Goldschmidt: “Egypt: A Developing Nation in Search of an Identity”
Nov. 18, 3:30 p.m. — Zoom link
This lecture examines Egypt’s complex identity struggle, touching on themes of Islamic unity, Arab leadership, and national development in the 21st century.
Ian Stuart Marshall: “The Secret History of Walden Pond”
Dec. 5, 2:30 p.m. — Zoom link
Dive into the untold stories of the world’s most famous pond, as Marshall reveals how Walden Pond influenced pivotal moments in history and faces ongoing environmental challenges.
Parking and Accessibility
Attendees are encouraged to park at the Nittany Deck, located on Fischer Road off Park Avenue. Accessible parking is available for those with valid Penn State permits. Visitors can also utilize the free campus shuttle services, including the Blue and White Loops, Red Link, and Campus Shuttle. These ADA-accessible shuttles stop directly outside Pattee Library.
For more information on parking and shuttle services, visit Transportation Services.
More information on the Penn State Emeritus Academy can be found on the Office of Faculty Affairs Website.