The 2016 presidency race, wine tasting, the origin of the universe and mastering the camera are among topics being presented during Purdue University Calumet’s sixth annual Friday University of single session, non-credit classes, Oct. 23 & 30 on campus.
Intended for adult learners of all ages, each class aims to be interesting and enlightening in a format void of tests, homework, grades or educational pre-requisites.
Purdue Calumet faculty instructors
Most classes will be taught by Purdue Calumet faculty and staff members. Due to limited seating, the registration deadline is Oct. 9.
“Our Friday University program has grown in popularity over the years among local residents who relish the opportunity to gain topical insights from faculty scholars,” Purdue Calumet Associate Professor of Political Science and Friday University instructor Richard Rupp said.
Register for either or both dates
Sixteen classes from which to choose are offered—eight each day. Each class is between 90 and 120 minutes long.
The registration fee is $80 per day or $140 for both Fridays. Registration fees cover a continental breakfast, two morning classes, lunch, and an afternoon class. There is an additional $12 charge for the Wine Tasting 101 class and $15 charge for the Gluten-Free Baking without Specialty Ingredients class, both Oct. 30.
Following is the complete Friday University course schedule:
Friday, Oct. 23
9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
“Unworthy of Life: The Holocaust and People with Disabilities”—(Instructor: Dr. Thomas Mihail). The class explores the inevitability of disability for all people, including a video centerpiece that traces the eugenics movement and documents genocide as its natural extension.
“The Music of Abraham Lincoln”—(Instructor: Angelo Cicco). Music of the 19th and 20th centuries are presented as key historical artifacts in enhancing understanding of the life of Lincoln, popular attitudes about him and his legacy.
“Fakes in the Art World”—(Instructor: Dr. Kay Rowberg). For some thieves, there is something tantalizing about the theft of great works of art. Learn how a few infamous artists, sleuthing scientists and art conservators worked to uncover evidence of fraud.
10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
“Here We Go Again: The Race for the Presidency”—(Instructors: Dr. Lisa Goodnight and Dr. Richard Rupp). The class promises a spirited and scholarly analysis of 2016 presidential candidates, their campaigns, media coverage, debates, money and more.
“The Impact of Nazi Propaganda on Arabs and Muslims”—(Instructor: Dr. Saul Lerner). To accomplish major goals during World War II, the Nazis directed a huge propaganda campaign at Arab and Muslim regions. The propaganda fed intense anti-Jewish hatred that has persisted among many Muslims.
“Bridging Gaps between What Governments & Markets Cannot Accomplish: Strengthening Civil Society - The ‘Third Rail’ of the Economy—(Instructor: Dr. Jamaluddin Husain). The historical evolution and importance of Civil Society is traced, both its good work and as a threat to authoritarian governments.
1:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
“The Great Singers”—(Instructor: Mitchell Brown). The evolution of various American singing styles is examined, including Blues and Torch Singers, Crooners and Swingers and Forces of Nature.
“A Biblical History of Sex—(Instructor: Dr. Dennis Barbour). The instructor examines Western attitudes about sex expressed in the Bible. Old Testament passages and the New Testament words of Jesus Christ and the apostle Paul will be examined.
Friday, Oct. 30
9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
“Mastering That Camera: Taking and Sharing Great Photos”—(Instructor Kimberly Leverick). You have taken pictures for years with mixed success; now it’s time to take the next step and enhance your skill sets. Learn about all those camera buttons and how to use lighting. Also, bring your camera or camera phone.
“Rwanda: The Rebuilding of a Country”—(Instructor: Joan Dorman). The instructor, who toured Rwanda in 2011, shares her impressions, as well as the hope and vision for the small, central Africa nation that was victimized by the genocide of 800,000+ human beings in the mid-1990s.
“The Rhetoric of Political Campaigns”—(Instructor: Dr. Tom Roach). Through a scholarly eye and practitioner’s expertise, attendees will gain an insider’s analysis of campaigns and elections, including defining candidates and raising issues. Examples from actual campaigns will be offered.
10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
“The Origin of the Universe” - (Instructor: Dr. Neeti Parashar). The instructor, an internationally acclaimed physicist and contributor to the 2013 Nobel Prize in Physics, discusses the evolution of the universe from a scientific perspective, as well as her contributions into the recent discovery of the Higgs Boson (God Particle).
“The Princess Bride: Wedding Traditions and Attire from Queen Victoria to the Duchess of Cambridge”—(Instructor: Dr. Debra Mancoff). Every item in a bride’s ensemble tells a story. Learn the hidden meanings by studying the attire and accessories of some of the most famous “princess brides” of the past century.
“Gluten-Free Baking without Specialty Ingredients”—(Instructor: Dr. Rebecca Stankowski). In this hands-on class in Purdue Calumet’s cutting edge Hospitality and Tourism Management Building kitchen, learn secrets of successful baking without wheat flour from an award-winning baker. Participants will prepare two gluten-free recipes and sample several more.
1:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
“Richard Rodgers vs. Stephen Sondheim: The History of the American Musical”—(Instructor: Mitchell Brown). By examining two of Broadway’s greatest composers, participants will discover a unique view into what made the American Musical the singular art form it is today.
“Wine Tasting 101”—(Instructor: Mike Flannery). Back by popular demand, the class will lead participants through a wine tasting tour d’ force. Topics include the five S’s of wine tasting: sight, swirl, smell, sip and savor. Great and affordable wines will be discussed.
To register by credit card or obtain other course information, phone Purdue University Calumet at 219/989-2308.