Class Listing

Monday, June 8, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Storytelling has served as a survival mechanism and a source of cultural memory for millennia. Spoken-word narratives of heroes, villains, and conflict eventually evolved into organized sport. Over time, sports narratives shifted from informative lessons to pure entertainment. This course explains how sports have been perceived as entertainment for centuries and the ways storytelling manifests across individuals, groups, and society. Key topics include viewer motivation, narrative biases, and the evolving role of media in sports storytelling.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 9:45–11 a.m.

While many recently celebrated the return of bison to Indiana University, these animals have actually been a vital part of the state's natural history for thousands of years. This session explores the history of the Indiana tallgrass prairie, the bison's role within that ecosystem, and why The Nature Conservancy restored a herd to Kankakee Sands in 2016. Featuring stunning imagery of these magnificent animals, this session may inspire you to plan your own follow-up adventure to Newton County.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 9:45–11 a.m.

Explore how storytelling, experience design, and intentional use of technology can create immersive environments that are not only engaging, but genuinely memorable and transformative. Drawing on insights from a course centered around Disney theme parks, this session examines how carefully crafted narratives shape emotion, behavior, and meaning across experiences. Attendees will learn how technology, when used with purpose rather than novelty, can deepen immersion, reinforce story, and draw people back, creating enduring relationships. The importance of good storytelling is gaining recognition across industries seeking new ways to connect with audiences, and this session offers accessible concepts, concrete examples, and design principles relevant to fields ranging from business and education to technology, marketing, and the arts.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 9:45–11 a.m.

Astronomy has played an important role in America since before the nation's founding. We will explore the contributions of American (and specifically Indiana) astronomers in the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as the unique combination of history, geography, and culture that established the U.S. as a world leader in the field. After reviewing the "golden age" of the 20th century—which brought us insights into the Big Bang, black holes, and dark energy—we will look toward the promise of the 21st century, featuring data from the James Webb, Nancy Grace Roman, and Vera Rubin telescopes.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

This course dives into the genre of graphic memoirs—messy, hand-drawn, personal stories narrated by people who don’t quite "fit in." By exploring panels, gutters, and visual metaphors, we will examine how this medium captures feelings of awkwardness, alienation, and identity that traditional prose cannot. We will discuss why a stick figure can sometimes convey more emotion than a formal portrait and how page layouts capture the essence of being an outsider. Join us to discover why storytelling is imperative for understanding the "misfits" of our world.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

This session examines the tumultuous recent events in the Middle East and their diplomatic repercussions. We will analyze the short but significant 2025 conflict between Israel and Iran, including the U.S. military’s strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. While the Trump administration helped broker a fragile ceasefire in Gaza, Israel’s ongoing military presence there and its engagements with Lebanon and Syria remain points of intense friction. Furthermore, we will discuss the deepening rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. This class assesses the current state of international relations in the region and evaluates the administration's handling of these complex, high-stakes issues.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 9:45–11 a.m.

Behind Eli Lilly’s massive pharmaceutical success and his legendary philanthropy was a deeply private individual. IU History Professor Jim Madison goes beyond business careers and wealth accumulation to explain how this outwardly modest man learned to live a life of engagement and commitment. This discussion explores the intersection of wealth and character, offering reflections that resonate in our own time.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

This session introduces the services of The Polis Center within the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering and highlights its work with community partners in Indiana and beyond to advance place-based policies that foster healthier, more resilient communities. Polis supports community development, disaster resiliency, and population health management through geospatial technologies that integrate and visualize complex, location-based data. A central focus of the workshop is SAVI, a free online platform offering interactive mapping and analysis tools, downloadable datasets, reports, and data literacy workshops. SAVI provides access to thousands of longitudinal socio-economic indicators, enabling insights into demographic trends, social determinants of health, education, crime, and other community conditions.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Rivers are among Earth’s most dynamic features, constantly reshaping the planet’s surface across vastly different timescales. This movement creates and destroys land, poses hazards to communities, and forms the subsurface reservoirs that store much of our natural resources. Dr. Edmonds will explore the mechanisms behind river movement, from the gradual meandering of channels to dramatic "avulsions"—sudden diversions that can permanently alter entire landscapes. We will examine how sediment transport, fluid dynamics, and topography interact to govern how rivers move—and why it matters in our changing world.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

This session covers the field of Forensic DNA Phenotyping—the science of predicting physical appearance traits from genetic material. We will discuss the genetics behind these predictions, the current performance levels of these systems, and the anthropological applications of computer-based facial reconstruction. Join us to explore how DNA is being used to build a visual bridge between biology and identity.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Indiana University Northwest (IUN) was established in the mid-town region of Gary in 1963. One of five regional campuses in the IU system, IUN has witnessed the changes in Gary in the aftermath of deindustrialization over the past sixty years. Recognizing the challenges in its own backyard, IUN has embedded service to the community into its mission and strategic plan. Partnering with the city in summer 2025, School of Arts students developed five 17-foot murals located on the busiest street in Gary. The murals highlight musical and cultural stars from the region—Kym Mazelle, Janet Jackson, Vee-Jay records—honoring Gary's distinctive past and hope for a vibrant future.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Herbert Yardley, a native of Worthington, Indiana, became one of America's first premier codebreakers during World War I. He served as the head of the "American Black Chamber" throughout the 1920s until it was shuttered by the Hoover administration in 1929—prompting Secretary of State Stimson’s famous remark, "Gentlemen do not read each other’s mail." Yardley’s life remained colorful in the years that followed, involving a stint as a Hollywood scriptwriter, a reputation as a keen poker player, and allegations of selling secrets to the Japanese. This session tracks his fascinating journey from 1912 until his death in 1958.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 9:45–11 a.m.

This session explores the transformative power of correctional education, focusing on research tracking individuals released from Indiana facilities to the state’s five most populous counties. By analyzing recidivism rates through the lens of academic and vocational engagement, we examine how targeted instruction serves as a critical intervention against the cycle of re-incarceration. Participants are challenged to view the justice system not just as a punitive model, but as one that prioritizes human capital. We will also analyze the financial return on investment for taxpayers, demonstrating how classroom literacy and job training reduce future correctional costs and strengthen local economies.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

In his novel High Fidelity, Nick Hornsby writes that "a good compilation tape, like breaking up, is hard to do." Indeed: Gifting one's musical proclivities is a trusting, vulnerable act. Its potential rewards, though, are deeply life-affirming. So what does it mean, for culture and relationships, that many listeners no longer engage with musical curation directly? Machine-generated playlists, offering bespoke novelty, have become a norm in the streaming age. But does that threaten traditional listing values? Is it possible that they are doing things right? What does "rightness" even mean? This class will probe these questions from historical and artistic perspectives. Together, we'll understand the implications of today's listening habits, which are perhaps more traditional than they seem.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 7–9 p.m.

In celebration of the 70th anniversary of “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Don’t Be Cruel,” this class will celebrate Elvis Presley, The King of Rock & Roll. Attendees will examine the many diverse American artists and influences that gave birth to rock and roll and made Elvis’ triumph possible.

Monday, June 8, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Designed for families, educators, and community members, this session offers a practical introduction to understanding and identifying dyslexia. We will explore the neurological basis of the condition, debunk common myths, and identify indicators across different age groups—from early phonological challenges to later difficulties with reading fluency. Additionally, we will provide an update on the current status of dyslexia assessment and intervention protocols within the state of Indiana.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Bone health often gets a bad rap—or no attention at all—because we frequently take for granted that our skeletons will simply serve us well. This lecture challenges that complacency by exploring the very foundation of your physical structure: your bones. Is bone density actually significant? What exactly is it, and can we take proactive steps to improve it? Bring your brain and your bones to discover just how "dense" you really are.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but at what point do daily struggles physically rewire the brain? This lecture explores the biological connection between life experiences and mental health. We will delve into the neuroscience of chronic stress, examining how it alters brain structure and disrupts the body’s primary stress response system, potentially paving the way for depression. We will conclude by discussing evidence-based strategies from scientific literature that promote resilience, offering practical insights on how to protect your brain and well-being in the face of life’s inevitable challenges.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, (Part 1) 9–11 a.m., (Part 2) 1–2:15 p.m.

In honor of the 100th anniversary of T.C. Steele’s death, this two-part class will visit and discuss companion exhibits at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site and the University Collections at McCalla. During the first session, attendees will take a bus to the historic site to learn about Steele’s time in Brown County. We will bus back to IU to view the Capturing the Campus: T.C. Steele exhibit and learn about Steele’s time as IU’s Artist in Residence.

Please note: We strongly advise choosing another session if any of the following presents a challenge, as you may not have access to the full exhibit. This session includes a fair amount of walking and the navigation of uneven flooring, narrow hallways, and unpaved/rocky outdoor terrain.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

This awareness session builds a foundational understanding of how exploitation and human trafficking occur, with a specific focus on youth and young adults. Participants will learn to recognize grooming tactics, power dynamics, online and in-person risk factors, and common warning signs of sexual and labor exploitation. Using trauma-informed, evidence-based content and real-life scenarios, this session promotes critical thinking and bystander action. We will emphasize prevention, early identification, and clear pathways for reporting concerns to empower educators and community members alike.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

To understand our world, we analyze, model, and experiment—and from time to time, chase imaginary spies across campus with our laptops. This session explores the science of data analytics through unusual, carefully constructed systems that make patterns and behavior easier to see (and occasionally harder to ignore). We’ll follow a suspect through a maze of location data, watch simple rules generate surprisingly lifelike behavior, and explore what happens when decisions unfold under uncertainty. Along the way, familiar tools like logic and arithmetic begin to feel less like math and more like detective work. Sometimes the story sits quietly inside the data. Sometimes it refuses to behave. Either way, there’s a moment when it finally gives itself up—and the clue that cracks it is almost never the obvious one.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Data science is often framed as a technical field of algorithms, models, and tools—but every dataset reflects human decisions, social systems, and historical inequities. This session explores how good data science begins with social and ethical responsibility. Using an informatics lens that blends sociotechnical thinking, design awareness, and computational approaches, we’ll examine why data is never neutral and why context matters as much as code. Participants will consider how choices around data collection, categorization, analysis, and use can shape outcomes in powerful ways. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for asking better questions about data sources, assumptions, and impacts in any data-driven work.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Enter an imaginative underwater landscape inspired by Indonesia’s stunning coral reef ecosystem in this curator-led tour of the Eskenazi Museum of Art’s spring 2026 featured exhibition, Mulyana: Vital Ecosystems. Acclaimed Indonesian fiber artist Mulyana hand knits and crochets intricate sculptures using repurposed fibers from textile factories and plastic bags from the food delivery industry. Mulyana’s community-based practice engages with pressing environmental and social issues, most notably climate change and the epidemic of loneliness and social isolation. The tour will also highlight connections with Indonesia’s rich textile and folklore traditions, as well as global environmental concerns through exploration of other objects in the museum’s collection.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Metal nanocrystals—tiny crystalline structures whose size and shape influence their properties—have been part of the human experience for centuries. While ancient artisans unknowingly used them to produce the vivid colors of stained glass, today’s scientists design them intentionally for use in medicine and energy technology. This session explores how nanocrystals interact with light to produce color, enable chemical reactions, and support advanced medical imaging. Emphasizing design principles over technical jargon, we will highlight how the nanoscale connects artistic expression with technological innovation.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this class examines the two Founders who died on its 50th: John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Once dear friends, they became bitter enemies due to their conflicting conceptions of democracy. However, in their later years, they reconciled through a series of letters that are considered masterpieces of American prose. We will examine excerpts from their correspondence to see what lessons they offer for navigating political differences today.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

In 1972, filmmaker Ron Osgood set out on a Northern California road trip that turned into an unexpected adventure. For decades, he shared the story from memory—until he rediscovered an audio cassette he had recorded at the time. This discovery inspired him to retrace his steps and investigate the truth. I Do Remember weaves memory and evidence together to ask: where does the truth lie? Following the screening and a Q&A, Rob Hongen, MD, will discuss the mechanics of memory and why storytelling remains vital for both the narrator and the audience.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Investigative reporting is a cornerstone of journalism’s contribution to democratic governance, but how is it faring in today’s fractured news ecosystem? While the muckraking period of the early 1900s and the Watergate era are often cited as the practice's high points, this lecture takes a broader, three-century view. We will trace the evolution of the craft from colonial exposés and abolitionist journalism to current distributed nonprofit models. Professor Lanosga will draw on his research into historical reporting practices and findings from two contemporary surveys involving more than 1,000 U.S. investigative journalists.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Leading in today’s media world is a delicate balancing act that is not for the timid. To be transparent: this session is not actually a biography of Mark Twain, but his wit and wisdom provide the perfect lens for discussing the challenges of modern management. We will use his insights to navigate the complexities of leadership in a rapidly changing information landscape.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

The buildings, sculptures, and vessels of ancient Greece and Rome were full of color, but much of that color has been lost over time. This Mini University session will begin with a brief tour of ancient art—and remnants of ancient color—in the Eskenazi Museum of Art’s second-floor gallery. It will then, with a PowerPoint presentation and discussion, continue to explore what is known about ancient polychromy and the various ways that scholars are working to present this information to the public through reconstructions.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

In this course, we will discuss the logic of international trade. Why do countries have a positive or negative trade balance? Do imports reduce domestic economic output and have a negative effect on employment? How do tariffs affect international trade and the domestic economy? How could we fix the problems?

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

The year 1898 marked a moment of profound national upheaval, as the American project was reimagined as a global empire. As the nation expanded beyond its contiguous borders and confronted the "threat" of new immigrants, it grappled with questions that have returned to the center of our lives today: Where is the line between voter regulation and suppression? What are the limits of territorial expansion? And who is entitled to the 14th Amendment’s promise of birthright citizenship? By examining modern efforts to reshape these historical narratives, we will see that the past is never truly dead; as William Faulkner famously wrote, "it is not even past."

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Human beings are social creatures, yet physical proximity alone does not create a sense of belonging. This session explores the essential distinction between "fitting in" and finding a true home within a large university. We will examine how meaningful connections are forged through shared experiences and small acts of kindness that make a vast campus feel intimate. Discover how intentional engagement—through campus roles, volunteerism, and communal spaces—transforms the student experience and reinforces our collective responsibility to ensure no one is "daunted" in their pursuit of community.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Bill Bennett, Director of IU Travels and an accomplished photographer, invites you on a visual journey through Benin, Togo, and Ghana. Through a vibrant "virtual tour," he will share his experiences learning about the rich cultures and complex histories of these nations. The session covers the legacy of the Ashanti Empire and the history of the slave trade, while also debunking Hollywood’s common misconceptions about Voodoo. Discover the beauty and depth of West Africa through the eyes of a seasoned traveler.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

While George Washington was commanding the battlefield and leading the Constitutional Convention, several of his fellow Founders were across the Atlantic in France. Their diplomatic work proved essential to the American cause and the birth of a new nation. Two figures in particular—Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson—did more than just advance political interests. They served as cultural and scientific ambassadors: Franklin as an importer of wit and inspiration to monarchical France, and Jefferson as an exporter of fine arts and radical ideas to republican America.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Our brains are engineered to store information to protect us, often in the form of shielding us from danger. But what if we could utilize that power to bring meaning into our life? Join registered art therapist and Eskenazi Museum of Art's resident arts-based wellness experiences manager on a journey of self-discovery. Attendees of this session will learn about theories of trauma and coping mechanisms, especially as they relate to art therapy. Those theories will be put into practice as you design a personal symbol based on your worldview.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Dry eye disease is a common condition affecting millions, often causing persistent discomfort and even blurred vision. In this webinar, we will break down the primary causes of dry eye, examine how lifestyle choices contribute to the condition, and explore exciting new relief options. You will learn simple at-home remedies and how to determine when it is time to see a specialist. Join us to learn everything you need to know about managing dry eye.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

Scientific research has increasingly documented the vital role mental health plays in scaffolding productive lives and stable societies. This realization requires us to rethink how we support a child’s healthy start, a college student’s success, and our own healthy aging. This presentation focuses on the Irsay Institute’s collaborative effort to document "leaks" in the educational and healthcare pipelines that compromise mental well-being. Focusing on Indiana, we will discuss how to build upon existing efforts and propose novel programs to "plug" those leaks and maximize human potential.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Natural disasters rarely occur in isolation. An earthquake can destabilize slopes, heavy rain can trigger landslides, and wildfires can dramatically increase flood risk long after the flames are extinguished. This course introduces the concept of "casading hazards"—sequences of interacting natural processes that amplify impacts over time. Drawing on real-world examples and recent research, we will explore why traditional risk models often miss these connections, how landscapes "remember" past events, and what this means for future preparedness and decision-making.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

What we wear is shaped by time and place and reflects social, cultural, economic, and technological developments. To celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, we will examine key shifts in the American fashion landscape, including the influence of the Civil War on cotton production, the impact of women’s emancipation on silhouettes, and the emergence of New York City as a global fashion capital. Illustrated with historical pieces from the Elizabeth Sage Historical Costume Collection, this session traces the arc of French-influenced American dress from the late 18th century to the functional and technical fashions of the 21st century.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Earth's climate is driven by solar energy and governed by complex interactions between the atmosphere, ocean, land, ice, and vegetation. This course explains these interconnections and how they shape our world. We will consider profound climate shifts from the Earth’s past, including the factors responsible for ancient "icehouse" and "greenhouse" events. By evaluating recent climate data on local and global scales, we will discuss current trends and investigate future model predictions aided by comparisons with ancient analogs.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

The creation stories in the Bible, primarily found in Genesis chapters one and two, are among the most famous narratives in history. However, there is much more to these texts than what appears at first glance. This lecture situates the accounts within their ancient Middle Eastern context, noting similarities and differences with Mesopotamian creation myths. Through a close reading of the text and current scholarship, you will see the story of Adam and Eve in an entirely new light.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

In this class session, we will discuss Unity 6, a widely used game engine, and its interface, core tools, and how it supports game development workflows. Students will learn basic project setup, scene navigation, and how to create and manipulate simple game objects. Attendees will also learn about scripting in C# and how code connects to gameplay behaviors. Through a hands-on exercise, students will practice essential operations and write their first playable program in Unity. To conclude, students will brainstorm and design a small interactive game scene that applies the concepts learned, encouraging creativity, experimentation, and collaboration.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

The modern era of capital punishment in the U.S. is built upon the concept of "guided discretion"—the idea that providing jurors with specific guidance on how to weigh evidence can curtail arbitrary decision-making. Since jurors are almost always the ones tasked with deciding who lives and who dies, their qualifications and psychological processes are of paramount importance. This session explores the requirements for serving on a capital jury, how these individuals navigate the ultimate life-or-death decision, and whether the system truly succeeds in eliminating arbitrariness from the process.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

Modern discourse on self-care often feels like a collection of brand suggestions and watered-down "therapy-speak." To find more impactful ways of dealing with systemic pressure, we turn to the history of self-care within the Civil Rights Movement. Leaders like Audre Lorde and Angela Davis recognized that caring for the self and the community was a critical component of social action. Together, we will observe how community care functions and create a stress management plan that prioritizes individual well-being alongside collective resilience.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Recent high-profile conflicts between the federal government and the media—including lawsuits against news organizations and the searching of a reporter’s home—have highlighted an intensifying strain on the First Amendment. While tension between the administration in power and the press is historically common, the current level of hostility is notable. This session will examine which recent incidents pose the greatest threat to the future of press freedom and what history tells us about the media's ability to survive official opposition.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

In 1984, Ryan White became a national symbol of the AIDS crisis, significantly increasing public understanding of the disease. Though he passed away in 1990—just months before fulfilling his dream of attending Indiana University Bloomington—his legacy remains. Ryan will be memorialized via the bronze sculpture Keep Going, created by Melanie Cooper Pennington and proposed by Professor William L. Yarber. This session discusses the creation of the piece and its installation in the Indiana Memorial Union, where Ryan will finally take his place among the IU student body.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

More than 27 million tourists are expected to visit Philadelphia in 2026 for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. While many will stick to Independence Historic Park, what lies beyond is a treasure trove of history and literature. This lecture goes beyond the postcards to explore the iconic, the ironic, and even the "sophomoric" elements of the city. We will celebrate Philadelphia’s triumphs—including the legacy of Benjamin Franklin—while also acknowledging the foibles and failures that make its history truly human.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

In 2026, we commemorate the 250th anniversary of 1776—a foundational and deeply complex year in American history. It was a year that saw resistance and rebellion transform into war and civil strife, as many British colonists shifted their hopes from reconciliation to independence. After months of uncertainty and hesitation, they organized committees, waged asymmetrical warfare, and eventually declared independence. This session grapples with the intense complexity of 1776, from January to December, exploring a conflict that affected lives on both sides of the Atlantic.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

This lecture offers a retrospective look at the 2025 Indiana University football season. By examining key games and turning points, we will place the season within the broader context of IU football history dating back to 1885.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 6:30–9 p.m.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Learn about the search for lost species and the discovery of new ones within Indiana’s rivers, lakes, and streams. This session focuses on recent explorations of cave streams in Bloomington and the East Fork of the White River. While the loss of aquatic insect species serves as a sobering warning about our changing environment, hidden gems remain to be found—such as a new fungus species described in 2025 with significant potential for drug discovery. We will discuss what these biological findings mean for both human and environmental health.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

Affecting one billion people worldwide, hypertension remains a primary global health challenge. Often stubbornly resistant to treatment, uncontrolled high blood pressure is a leading contributor to cardiovascular disease and mortality. This talk covers the history of hypertension management, the pros and cons of aggressive blood pressure control, and specific considerations for older adults. We will discuss the lifestyle, socioeconomic, and healthcare access issues that influence treatment success, as well as new medications that promise to reduce morbidity and improve patient outcomes.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

You may not know his name, but John Trumbull’s paintings shaped how we visualize the American Revolution. A veteran of the War for Independence, Trumbull devoted his life to being a "graphic historiographer" of the era, culminating in his famous works installed in the U.S. Capitol. This lecture traces Trumbull’s career, from his interactions with diplomats like Adams and Jefferson to the installation of his iconic scenes in 1826. We will explore how these participants actively shaped the way future generations remember the Revolution.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

Over the last 60 years, a widening gap has emerged between areas that vote "Red" and those that vote "Blue." This session will demonstrate significant and growing differences in life expectancy and the prevalence of chronic diseases between these regions. We will examine how current federal policies may exacerbate these disparities and discuss potential policy shifts that could help close the gap and improve health outcomes across the political spectrum.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Long-time presenters and political scientists Margie Hershey and Les Lenkowsky return for a timely discussion on civil discourse, critical thinking, and mindful media consumption. In light of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the panel will explore what the signers can teach us about navigating today’s political climate. Moderated by Professor Robin Reames, an expert on rhetoric, the session offers insight into how the discipline of rhetoric can help us think less ideologically and more critically, providing a roadmap for staying meaningfully engaged in unprecedented times.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Often cited as one of the greatest novels in the English language, George Eliot’s Middlemarch aims to teach us who we really are—virtues, foibles, and all. Eliot believed that by seeing one another sympathetically, we can build stronger interpersonal relationships and communities. This lecture explores why few books offer greater prospects for the enhancement of human character and the enrichment of human life.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

While the original Declaration of Independence is a fixture in Washington, D.C., the Lilly Library at Indiana University is home to one of the very rare printed Dunlap broadsides. Interestingly, the July 4th Declaration was far from the first such assertion made in 1776, and the document we revere today was not put on public display until the 1840s. This session explores the Declaration amid the mayhem of 1776—specifically during the British invasion of New York—and tracks how it evolved into an object of national reverence.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 1–2:15 p.m.

What goes into creating an exhibition at the Lilly Library? Erika Dowell, Executive Associate Director and Curator of Modern Manuscripts, takes you through the steps of selection, research, curation, design, editing, and programming that resulted in the current exhibition, The Declaration of Independence: The Motives, The Moment. The session will include time to view the exhibition and ask questions about the exhibition process.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

This session explores the complex effects of social media and AI on youth well-being and mental health. Research findings from longitudinal studies on adolescent digital behavior will be presented alongside cutting-edge data on health biomarkers. The session will conclude with practical, evidence-based recommendations to promote digital wellness and help teens navigate the modern media landscape safely.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

In the last decades, Venezuela has appeared in the news as a site of political debates, if not of turmoil and different crises, including the recent episode of US intervention and unheard of cooperation with the regime the US government said was going to overthrow. I propose to expand our view beyond the immediate (without ceasing to recognize its urgency and importance), and examine how Venezuelan poets have been able, for more than a century, to say things that linear historical accounts cannot convey. What image of Venezuela would result if we turn to poetry? How to complement journalism with art and its oblique way of dealing with meaningful questions about our past and present? In this class, we will attempt to answer these questions, offering an overview of Venezuela's contemporary poets and key themes that can help expand upon what we see in the news.

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 9–11 a.m.

Since January 2025, over 500 lawsuits have been filed challenging the actions of the second Trump Administration, leading to blockbuster Supreme Court cases on tariffs, immigration, and birthright citizenship. This litigation has been marked by accusations of misstated facts and defiance of court orders, sparking sharp exchanges among the Justices. Amidst this judicial activity sits a paralyzed Congress. Join Clinical Associate Professor Beth Cate for a session of "Boundary-Testing Bingo" as we unpack the friction between the administration and the courts, and what it all means for the future of our constitutional order.

Friday, June 12, 2026, 9–10:15 a.m.

Designed for curious adult learners, this class will examine how to use gen-AI to learn faster and think more clearly—without outsourcing judgment. Framing AI as a study buddy, writing coach, and idea sparring partner, an emphasis is put on critical thinking and verification. This class will cover using AI to learn (not just produce); reading, research, and writing support; how to check claims, spot hallucinations, and request sources you can audit; and ethical use of AI. We will embark on a guided “AI learning sprint” where we will pick a topic, get a mini-lesson, generate practice questions, then check the output. Participants will take away a template for turning any curiosity into a structured learning plan.

Friday, June 12, 2026, 2:45–4 p.m.

Museums are more than just repositories for old artifacts; they are dynamic community spaces with evolving exhibits and programs. In this session, Daniel, David, and Luke will cover the foundations of the Monroe County History Center, explaining how museums operate and who they serve. The session includes a "virtual tour" of the History Center, showcasing the value of preserving local heritage.

Friday, June 12, 2026, 9–10:15 a.m.

As political attacks increasingly target inclusive curricula, public schools have become primary sites of cultural conflict. As a literacy scholar and teacher educator, I maintain that teaching is never a neutral act; educators are tasked with helping students form their own beliefs and critically analyze the world around them. This talk explores how educators are reframing literacy spaces as sites for resistance and "wellsprings" of hope, ensuring that public education continues to fulfill its role in a healthy democracy.

Friday, June 12, 2026, 9–10:15 a.m.

Our economy, communities, and daily lives increasingly rely on personal data. Advances in technology have made it easier than ever to create, collect, store, share, and analyze that data. What once mainly supported communication and entertainment now shapes critical systems such as healthcare, finance, transportation, and public safety. This session explores the opportunities and risks that come with living in a data-driven world. We will discuss how widespread data collection affects privacy, who controls the growing volumes of personal information about us, and what individuals, organizations, and policymakers can do to protect privacy while still benefiting from new technologies.

Friday, June 12, 2026, 9–10:15 a.m.

This session introduces the principles of medical genetics and their application in diagnosing rare conditions. We will explore the mission of the IU Undiagnosed and Rare Disease Clinic, a member of the national Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) dedicated to solving medical mysteries through advanced genomics. Participants will learn about the "diagnostic odyssey" faced by patients and how bioinformatics and phenotype-driven analysis provide answers. Join us to see how cutting-edge science and compassionate care intersect to improve patient outcomes in precision medicine.