Lectures

We see it in the news every week- Russia has hit another cultural heritage site in Ukraine, but why is this happening? Is this a common practice in warfare? This lecture will address these questions and more pertaining to the rapidly increasing weaponization of cultural property. My research focuses on two major case studies- Russia […]

I am delighted to invite you to a special lecture marking the centennial of the passing of master painter Claude Monet. We will explore the fascinating life and achievements of the artist whose “Impression, Sunrise” gave birth to impressionism. We will discover how Monet defied critics, endured financial adversities, managed frustrations, shocked the art world, […]

This lecture is all about the French, the Nazis & the battle for France’s greatest treasure. In 1940, France fell to the Nazis and almost immediately, the German army began a campaign of pillaging one of the assets the French hold most dear: their wine. What happened in the French wine regions during the Nazi […]

Did you know that babies have a basic sense of ethics? How have our ideas about marriage changed over the past 50 years? When does “old age” start (if it starts at all)? How does our marvelous journey through life progress? Join me as I summarize my half-century decoding what “developmental science” (that’s my field) […]

Experience the rich flavors of Louisiana with our New Orleans Style Jambalaya presentation. This session explores the evolution of a beloved Cajun recipe, blending traditional techniques with modern culinary insights. Enjoy an immersive atmosphere of music, visuals, and aromas as we demonstrate the scratch-cooking process. All participants will receive a detailed recipe guide—including preparation tips […]

Come along on a journey into the colorful world of hot-air ballooning! Drawing on 46 years of experience as a commercial hot-air balloon pilot, I’ll share the adventure, beauty, and unique experience of flight by balloon. You’ll discover how ballooning began, how modern balloons are designed and handcrafted, what it’s like to navigate with the […]

Have you ever wondered about where your waste goes after the garbage truck leaves your neighborhood? This lecture will describe the role that the circular economy could play in minimizing economic and environmental impacts of solid waste both locally and globally. We will delve a bit deeper into questions that may challenge you such as: […]

You’ve probably heard a lot about AI—but what is it really, and how might it make everyday life a little easier and enjoyable? In this friendly, interactive session, we’ll explore AI through stories of three ordinary people who discovered practical and surprising ways to use it. Whether you’re eager to try AI or simply want […]

Join us for an entertaining afternoon of original theater as participants from our Ten-Minute Play Writing Workshop bring their original plays to life, showcasing a variety of characters, stories, and perspectives. From comedy to drama—and perhaps a few surprises along the way—these brief performances demonstrate how much can happen in just ten minutes. Many of […]