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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250117T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250117T113000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250113T183032Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T204056Z
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SUMMARY:How Music Impacts Society with Joe Kendrick
DESCRIPTION:  \n  \n\nTOPIC: Songs of Solidarity\, Songs of Protest\, Songs of Hope Amidst Struggle: A Brief Survey of the Impact of Music on the Radio for Social Movements\nSPEAKER: Joe Kendrick\, Director of Programming and Operations Manager\, WNCW \nAn overview of songs\, artists\, genres and eras of music on radio that reflect and have impacted various social movements in America. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nPublic radio programmer\, music host\, writer\, podcaster\, college instructor\, public speaker\, event producer \nMy role is to envision and develop the sound and image of WNCW\, create original programming and manage round the clock operations. I recruit\, develop and manage our programming staff. Also I host and produce weekly music shows and a bi-weekly podcast\, Southern Songs and Stories. I represent WNCW in person as well as virtually worldwide to donors and industry partners. Additionally\, I am part of the team that produces the annual Earl Scruggs Music Festival in Tryon\, NC. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/how-music-impacts-society-with-joe-kendrick/
LOCATION:Providence United Methodist Church (PUMC) – Wolfe Hall\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, North Carolina\, 28211
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/JKendrick-1_1-17-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250124T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250124T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20240820T155128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T204056Z
UID:10000097-1737712800-1737716400@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:What a Rush! A Brief History of Mining in North Carolina with Valerie Reynolds
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC:  What a Rush! A Brief History of Mining in North Carolina\nSPEAKER: Valerie Reynolds\, Department of Earth\, Environmental\, and Geographical Sciences UNC Charlotte \nFrom the first gold discovered in the United States to the ultra-pure quartz fueling the semiconductor industry\, mining has played an essential role in North Carolina’s economy for centuries. This presentation will provide a brief history of mining in North Carolina as well as the geologic conditions responsible for forming such valuable mineral deposits. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nDr. Reynolds earned her PhD from the University of Tennessee\, then worked as a Research Assistant at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History for 2 years before beginning her teaching career. She taught at The University of the South (TN) and Colby College (ME) before arriving at UNC Charlotte in 2012. In addition to teaching\, Dr. Reynolds is the Undergraduate Coordinator for the Geology and Earth & Environmental Sciences programs and is a faculty advisor for the student-led GEO club. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/what-a-rush-a-brief-history-of-mining-in-north-carolina-with-valerie-reynolds/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/VReynolds_1-24-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250131T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250131T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20240917T155225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T204056Z
UID:10000106-1738317600-1738321200@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:What did you say? Communication\, Problem-solving\, and Intelligence in Birds with Jeffrey Thomas
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: What did you say? Communication\, Problem-solving\, and Intelligence in Birds\nSPEAKER: Jeffrey Thomas\, Professor of Biology\, Queens University of Charlotte \nBirds\, especially songbirds\, say a lot. But what do we know about what they’re saying to each other? And how do they use their communication to negotiate interactions with each other\, find food\, and learn about their surroundings? Birds offer a rich and fascinating opportunity to explore and define animal intelligence and the complexity of communication systems. \nFrom mockingbirds to ravens to vultures\, birds show a remarkable breadth of intelligence\, but research is beginning to shed light on the connections between vocal behavior and problem solving. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nDr. Jeffrey Thomas is a professor of biology and the director of general education at Queens University of Charlotte. His research and teaching examine the intersection of ecology and evolutionary processes on animal communication systems. He has also served on the board of Carolina Raptor Center. \nIn his spare time\, he travels\, cooks\, and takes his dog for long walks. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/what-did-you-say-communication-problem-solving-and-intelligence-in-birds-with-jeffery-thomas/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/JThomas_1-31-25.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250207T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250207T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20241209T171722Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T204056Z
UID:10000114-1738922400-1738926000@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:The Future of US-China Relations with Keren Zhu
DESCRIPTION:GREAT DECISIONS TOPIC: The Future of US-China Relations\nSPEAKER: Keren Zhu\, Assistant Professor\, Davidson College \nU.S.-China relations have emerged as the most consequential dynamic in contemporary international relations\, profoundly influencing global politics\, economics\, and security. This lecture will explore the evolution of U.S.-China relations since 1949\, examine the key factors shaping the future of this relationship\, and analyze how their competition extends to and impacts other regions. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nDr. Keren Zhu is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Davidson College. She teaches courses on Asia Pacific international relations\, the rise of China\, and policy analysis. Her research focuses on Chinese foreign policy\, the Belt and Road Initiative\, and global infrastructure development. She holds a B.A. from the Chinese University of Hong Kong\, an M.Sc. from the University of Oxford\, and a Ph.D. from the Pardee RAND Graduate School. \nDr. Zhu has published extensively on China’s global engagement and U.S.-China relations. She also co-hosts “The Belt and Road Podcast” and is currently working on a book about the global impact of Chinese infrastructure projects. Prior to Davidson\, she held academic and research positions at the RAND Corporation\, University of Southern California\, Boston University Global Development Policy Center\, and The New School India China Institute. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/the-future-of-us-china-relations-with-keren-zhu/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/KZhu_2-7-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250214T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250214T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250219T170834Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T170913Z
UID:10000134-1739527200-1739530800@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Medicare Fraud with Austin Caton
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Medicare Fraud\nSPEAKER: Austin Caton\, Aging Program Coordinator\, Centralina Area Agency on Aging \nAustin is an Aging Program Coordinator for the Digital Navigation Program providing assistance with technology and training for older adults in our region. \n\n  \nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/medicare-fraud-with-austin-caton/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ACaton_2-14-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250221T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250221T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250219T170619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T175523Z
UID:10000133-1740132000-1740135600@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:America and Changing Economic World with Jay Bryson
DESCRIPTION:GREAT DECISIONS TOPIC:   America and Changing Economic World\nSPEAKER: Jay Bryson\, Managing Director\, Chief Economist\, Wells Fargo Corporate and Investment Bank \nDr. Bryson will present his annual analysis of financial markets and macroeconomic developments in the global economy. \nHe will also provide an outlook for the next two years including forecasts of GDP growth rates\, inflation rates\, and interest rates in the major economies of the world. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nDetails coming soon. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/america-and-changing-economic-world-with-jay-bryson/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/JBryson_2-21-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250228T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250228T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250106T165742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T204056Z
UID:10000120-1740736800-1740740400@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:How PBS Charlotte Shines the Spotlight on our Region with Amy Burkett
DESCRIPTION:GREAT DECISIONS TOPIC: How PBS Charlotte Shines the Spotlight on our Region\nSPEAKER: Amy Burkett\, PBS General Manager \nAmy will share interesting statistics and behind the scenes production details woven in and out of video clips of local documentaries as well as our signature Emmy winning news magazine Carolina Impact. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nAmy has been honored to lead the renaissance of PBS Charlotte since 2013. She’s grateful that over that time the station has seen over a 400% increase in community support. In addition to the wonderful national content the station has five weekly local shows the newest Unspun is a political program that helps you know what politicians are often thinking but not saying hosted by former Charlotte mayor and governor Pat McCrory. Amy has led the station for five Emmy awards during her time year brining her total to 11 Emmys during her more than 30 years in broadcasting. She’s published two leadership books. \nThe 7D’s to Your Destiny and The Dirty F-Word: Lessons From our Failures \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/how-pbs-charlotte-shines-the-spotlight-on-our-region-with-amy-burkett/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ABurkett_2-28-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250307T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250307T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250310T191341Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T191341Z
UID:10000146-1741341600-1741345200@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:The Shadow of Alzheimer's Disease with Dr. Adam Law
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: The Shadow of Alzheimer’s Disease\nSPEAKER: Dr. Adam Law\, Visiting Scientist\, Cornell University \nThis talk will explore Alzheimer’s Disease from a personal\, professional and research perspective\, as a physician who\, in retirement\, is participating in a laboratory investigating its molecular mechanisms. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nAdam Law is a Londoner by birth and emigrated to the USA at the age of thirty-one. He moved to Ithaca 34 years ago and has lived in the same home in North East Ithaca where he and his wife Jane Marie raised 3 Ithacan children. \nHe trained in medicine and molecular medicine at the University of London. He was a post-doctoral researcher at UCSF and Cornell University in molecular biology and genetics. He was the only endocrinologist in Tompkins County for most of his 28 year career in medical practice in Ithaca and also was a primary care physician. \nDuring this time when he was president of the medical staff at The Cayuga Medical Center\, he was responsible for bringing medical students and residents to Ithaca from Weill Cornell\, where he was a clinical assistant professor. \nHe has co-founded 2 non-profits. In 2010 Physicians\, Scientists and Engineers for Healthy Energy (PSE) in his living room\, currently board president and in 2021 Artists with Evidence (AwE)\, currently board treasurer. \nHe retired from clinical medicine in 2022. Currently\, he is a visiting scientist in the Lis lab in the Biotechnology Center at Cornell University researching Alzheimer’s disease. His hobbies are learning the guitar\, studying Brazilian Portuguese\, running and cycling. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/the-shadow-of-alzheimers-disease-with-dr-adam-law/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ALaw_3-7-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250314T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250314T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250310T190758Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T160244Z
UID:10000144-1741946400-1741950000@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Critical Thinking – A Quick Course
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC:   Critical Thinking – A Quick Course\nSPEAKER: Pierce Howard\, Ph.D \nBeginning with a definition of critical thinking–and in the spirit of critical thinking\, Pierce will offer several definitions. What it is\, and what it is not. \nThe core is questioning\, so we will explore the world of asking questions that most support critical thinking. Then Pierce will identify obstacles to thinking critically\, followed by qualities that foster critical thinking. \nThis all leads up to identifying System I (instincts) and System II (processes) mental functions\, what Daniel Kahneman described in his Thinking\, Fast and Slow (2013). We will close with a daily tool bag that includes five basic skills of critical thinking. \nNOTE: This meeting is Zoom only. PUMC is closed on 3/14/2025.\n\nBIOGRAPHY \nPierce J. Howard\, PhD\, was born in Kinston\, North Carolina. Making his way through public schools\, he learned to love reading\, writing\, mathematics\, music\, and nature. Four years at Davidson College stoked his passion for literature\, music\, philosophy\, and psychology. Three years in the U.S. Army as a Military Intelligence Specialist molded his penchant for research and investigation. During graduate school at East Carolina University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill\, he changed his major from literature to educational psychology. \nHis first job was with the North Carolina Advancement School in Winston-Salem. Moving to Charlotte in 1977 to teach at West Charlotte\, Pierce then co-founded LEAD (long E) Associates in 1979. Between arriving in Charlotte and retiring\, Pierce also served as an adjunct professor at UNC–Charlotte\, Pfeiffer University\, and most recently the McColl School of Business at Queens University. \nIn 1986\, along with his wife\, Jane\, he started a consulting company\, now named Paradigm Personality Labs. Over 32 years\, they offered training\, team building\, coaching\, and personnel research to clients on six continents. In 1994\, Pierce wrote and published The Owner’s Manual for the Brain\, now in its 4th edition and published by William Morrow. He even appeared as a guest on “Oprah” in1995. Subsequently\, he wrote more than 20 books. The Howards’ core service has been through several personality assessments that they developed: the WorkPlace Big Five Profile\, the SchoolPlace Big Five Profile\, the WorkPlace Values Profile\, and the WorkPlace Performance 360. In 2018\, Pierce retired as the Chief Innovations Officer at Paradigm\, but in retirement\, he’s now writing The Owner’s Manual for Critical Thinking. \n 
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/critical-thinking-a-quick-course/
LOCATION:Zoom Only
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations,Zoom Presentation Only
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/PHoward_3-14-2025.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250321T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250321T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250310T190023Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T155958Z
UID:10000142-1742551200-1742554800@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:International Climate Cooperation in an Era of Geopolitical Turmoil with Mark Kelso
DESCRIPTION:GREAT DECISIONS TOPIC: International Climate Cooperation in an Era of Geopolitical Turmoil \nSPEAKER: Mark Kelso\, Professor\, Political Science\, International Studies & Sociology Department\, Queens University \nAn overview of international efforts to enhance global environmental protection\, with a focus on recent efforts to address climate change.  Discussion of where these efforts have succeeded. \nDiscussion of key challenges that lie ahead. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nMark Kelso is Professor of Political Science at Queens University of Charlotte. His research interests focus on environmental policy and political leadership. \nHis most recent publication is “A Green Presidency? Barack Obama and the Environment” in Meena Bose and Paul Fritz\, Evaluating the Obama Presidency (2024). \nHe has also published in Congress and the Presidency and Presidential Studies Quarterly. He is the 2017 winner of the Hunter-Hamilton Love of Teaching Award. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/international-climate-cooperation-in-an-era-of-geopolitical-turmoil-with-mark-kelso/
LOCATION:Providence United Methodist Church (PUMC) – Wolfe Hall\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, North Carolina\, 28211
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MKeslo_4-26-2024.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250310T185725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T175150Z
UID:10000141-1743156000-1743159600@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:NATO Under New Leadership with Dmitry Vovchuk
DESCRIPTION:GREAT DECISIONS TOPIC: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Under New Leadership\nSPEAKER: Dmitry Vovchuk\, The Cohen Group \nFollowing NATO’s 75th Anniversary Summit in Washington DC in July 2024\, the Alliance faces a new reality. The reelection of Donald Trump and his policies on NATO and Ukraine will determine the course of European security for the foreseeable future. NATO’s new Secretary General\, Mark Rutte\, must effectively navigate this new political environment to manage deterrence and defense against Russia\, preserve Ukraine’s sovereignty\, and ensure NATO remains united across the Atlantic. This timely update on NATO will be provided by Mr. Vovchuk ahead of NATO’s next Summit\, taking place in The Hague in June. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nDmitry Vovchuk is a Vice President at The Cohen Group. During his time at the firm\, Mr. Vovchuk has led a wide range of client teams in the defense\, manufacturing\, healthcare\, financial\, and technology sectors. In addition\, Mr. Vovchuk supports The Cohen Group’s Europe practice and he leads the firm’s Ukraine working group\, advising clients on sectoral implications of the war in Ukraine and its impacts on European markets. \nPrior to joining The Cohen Group\, Mr. Vovchuk served in numerous key roles at the US Departments of State and Defense\, National Security Council\, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). He also held several leadership positions in financial services and management consulting. \nMr. Vovchuk served as Deputy Chief of Staff to the Secretary General of NATO from 2013-2016. In that role\, he managed the transition of NATO’s combat operations in Afghanistan to its Resolute Support Mission and helped achieve key milestones in NATO’s ballistic missile defense program. Mr. Vovchuk also led the process to conduct a full review of the US integrated campaign plan as the Director for Strategic Planning in the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy to Counter ISIS. \nAdditionally\, Mr. Vovchuk coordinated the work of the White House Task Force responsible for the 2012 NATO Summit hosted by President Obama in Chicago and served as the National Security Council Director for Eastern Europe from 2012-2013\, managing the development and execution of US policy for a region stretching from the Baltic to the Black Sea. \nMr. Vovchuk was selected to the Civil Service as a Presidential Management Fellow in 2006. He led the interagency process to invite new members into NATO at its Summit in Bucharest\, Romania\, supported the development of NATO’s renewed Strategic Concept\, and managed US policy priorities for the Alliance’s International Security and Assistance Force (ISAF) mission in Afghanistan. Mr. Vovchuk also served as a Political Officer at the US Embassy in Kyiv\, Ukraine and in the Office of the Secretary of Defense during the 2008 conflict between Russia and Georgia. \nOutside of government\, Mr. Vovchuk advised global consumer goods and health care companies on organizational change and strategic alignment as a Principal with the McChrystal Group. He was a registered financial representative and served as Chief of Staff at Ally Bank\, supporting the Executive Director for its auto\, deposits\, online brokerage\, and wealth management customer care and experience division. \nMr. Vovchuk is the recipient of the State Department’s Superior and Meritorious Honor Awards\, completed a five-year term membership with the Council on Foreign Relations\, and taught foreign policy at Queens University of Charlotte. He received a Master’s of Arts in US National Security Policy at Georgetown University and a Bachelor of Arts from Drew University. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/nato-under-new-leadership-with-dmitry-vovchuk/
LOCATION:Providence United Methodist Church (PUMC) – Wolfe Hall\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, North Carolina\, 28211
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DVovchuk_3-28-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250404T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250404T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250311T161603Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T155714Z
UID:10000147-1743760800-1743764400@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:American Foreign Policy in the Middle East with Dr. Harry Chernotsky
DESCRIPTION:GREAT DECISIONS TOPIC: American Foreign Policy in the Middle East \nSPEAKER: Dr. Harry Chernotsky\, Professor Emeritus Global Studies\, UNC Charlotte \nThis presentation – part of the Great Decisions 2025 program -will address the continuing search for peace in the Middle East\, as the region looks to move beyond the events of October 7 and confronts the realities of an uncertain future.  We will review the latest developments impacting the region’s many trouble spots and will examine the changing posture of the United States under the Trump administration. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nHarry I. Chernotsky is Professor Emeritus in Global Studies\, retiring after 43 years on the faculty of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He served as the founding chair of the Department of Global Studies from 2009-2016 after spending 30 years in the university’s Department of Political Science. Previous positions included Director of International Studies and Interim Associate Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences. He is the recipient of UNC Charlotte’s Bank of America Teaching Excellence Award and its International Education Faculty Award. \nChernotsky received his Ph.D. in Political Science from Rutgers University. He specializes in international political economy and American foreign policy and has published in a wide range of professional journals. He is most proud of his work (with Heidi Hobbs) – Crossing Borders: International Studies for the 21st Century (4rd edition\, 2022) – one of the first textbooks providing an interdisciplinary perspective on the field. \nThroughout his career\, Chernotsky was a leader in international studies education. He spearheaded numerous initiatives at UNC Charlotte\, including the development of the Model United Nations program and the interdisciplinary International Studies major. He was Director of the North Carolina Great Decisions public affairs series and still lectures widely on international affairs and U.S. foreign policy. He also served as President of the Southern region of the International Studies Association (ISA) and as Chair of ISA’s International Education section. He worked for many years with the University of Cantabria (Spain) on its global studies certificate program and was Scholar in Residence at Florida Atlantic University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute\, where he continues lecture each year. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/american-foreign-policy-in-the-middle-east-with-dr-harry-chernotsky/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/HChernotsky_4-4-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250411T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250411T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250121T203048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T165118Z
UID:10000126-1744365600-1744369200@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Update on Mecklenburg County Initiatives with Dena Diorio
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Update on Mecklenburg County Initiatives \nSPEAKER: Dena Diorio\, Mecklenburg County Manager \nDena will provide an update on County projects and initiatives and answer questions. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nDena Diorio has been a leader in public administration since 1988. After graduate school Dena started what would be a ten-year stint with the City of New York\, eight of which were in the Mayor’s Office. Serving under three different Mayors\, Dena started as a financial analyst in the Departments of Sanitation and General Services where she provided financial support to various operating divisions. In 1990\, she was appointed a supervising analyst at the Mayor’s Office of Operations where she rose to the level of Deputy Director in only five years. In 1995\, she was appointed the Director of City Legislative Affairs and served as the Mayor’s lobbyist to the City Council. In that role she is credited with facilitating the passage of over 100 local laws included in the Mayor’s legislative agenda. \nIn 1998\, Dena was appointed the inaugural Director of the Office of Policy and Management for the City of Stamford\, Connecticut. She established a strong budget and auditing department that improved efficiency and accountability. In 2002\, Dena moved to the City of Danbury\, Connecticut where she served as the Director of Finance and Human Resources. \nDena joined Mecklenburg County\, North Carolina in 2007 as Director of the Department of Financial Services. She is recognized for guiding the County through the fiscal crisis and implementing policies that significantly improved the financial position of the County. In 2013\, she was promoted to Assistant County Manager and in 2014 was selected as the first woman to serve as County Manager for Mecklenburg County. As County Manager Dena serves as the CEO of the organization and is responsible for a workforce of 6\,000 employees and an annual operating budget of $2 billion. \nIn her role as County Manager\, Dena serves on a variety of boards including Charlotte Center City Partners\, the Charlotte Sports Foundation\, the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance\, Blumenthal Performing Arts\, and United Way of Central Carolinas. \nDena has been recognized for her leadership by many organizations. In 2015\, she was named Public Policy Leader of the Year by the National Association of Women Business Owners\, and in 2016\, she received the Leadership in Action award by Career Mastered. In 2018 she was named one of the 50 Most Influential Women by the Mecklenburg Times\, and in 2019 a Most Admired CEO by the Charlotte Business Journal. In 2020\, Dena was chosen as the Businesswoman of the Year by Queens University\, the first woman from the public sector to receive the honor. In 2021\, she was awarded the Excellence in Leadership Award from the Centralina Regional Council\, received a Woman in American History Award from the Daughters of the American Revolution\, and the Pegasus Award from the Public Relations Society of America\, which honors someone from outside the public relations profession for embracing the strategic use of communications. In 2023\, she was awarded the Whitney M. Young award by the Urban League of Central Carolinas that honors those that have made significant impacts in the black community. \nDena earned her bachelor’s degree in social services from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh. She earned a master’s degree in public administration from Columbia University. \nDena lives with her husband Phil in Charlotte\, North Carolina. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/how-pbs-charlotte-shines-the-spotlight-on-our-region-with-amy-burkett-2/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/DDiorio_4-11-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250418T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250418T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250219T165741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T163638Z
UID:10000132-1744970400-1744974000@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Fluid Geopolitics of South Asia with Parag Jyoti Saikia
DESCRIPTION:GREAT DECISIONS TOPIC: Fluid Geopolitics of South Asia: Challenges and Opportunities \nSPEAKER: Parag Jyoti Saikia\, Doctoral Candidate\, Department of Anthropology\, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill  \nIndia is at a volatile crossroads in South Asia. In summer 2024\, India lost one of its close allies as student uprising deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Towards the end of 2024\, China announced to build new dams on rivers originating from Tibet\, threatening India’s efforts to build similar dams downstream. Such tensions are not new in international relations\, India’s reaction to China’s growing financial and infrastructural influence in South Asia has been closely observed. Drawing from scholarship on Indo-China relations and personal experience of growing up in a frontier area\, my talk will discuss India’s challenges and opportunities to becomes a regional and global leader. \n  \n\nBIOGRAPHY\nParag Jyoti Saikia is studying the construction of a hydropower dam in India to understand how infrastructures in-the-making shape everyday life\, the environment\, and geopolitics. He is a doctoral candidate in anthropology at the University of North Carolina\, Chapel Hill (UNC). His research is supported by the Wenner-Gren Foundation\, Social Science Research Council and UNC’s Graduate School. He is a public-engaged scholar who has also been awarded to Public Scholar’s Training Fellowship from SAPIENS magazine. For nearly a decade\, he has been associated with grassroots organizations working on dams\, rivers\, and the environment\, and been writing about these issues both in English and Assamese\, his mother tongue. His writings have appeared on The Conversation\, SAPIENS\, South Asia blog of London School of Economics\, The Wire\, and Asia Times. \n\nNOTE: This meeting will be Zoom only. There will be no in-person meeting due to Good Friday and PUMC being closed.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/fluid-geopolitics-of-south-asia-with-parag-saikia/
LOCATION:Zoom Only
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/PJSiakia_4-18-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250425T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250425T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250312T195616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250424T214117Z
UID:10000148-1745575200-1745578800@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Update on Queens University with Dr. Sarah Fatherly
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC:  Update on Queens University\nSPEAKER: Dr. Sarah Fatherly\, Chief Academic Officer for Queens University of Charlotte \nLearn about what has been happening at Queens over the 2024-2025 year. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nSarah Fatherly is the chief academic officer for Queens University of Charlotte\, overseeing all academic programs and services. Having served in that role since 2017\, Dr. Fatherly has almost two decades of experience in academic administration. \nShe joined the Queens community in 2012 as associate provost and dean of university programs providing a renewed focus to undergraduate student success and retention. In addition to scholarship in her academic fields of study\, Fatherly has published and presented widely on scaling high-impact practices\, equity-minded curriculum innovation\, faculty development practices\, and campus partnerships for student success. She earned a B.A. from Gustavus Adolphus College\, an M.A.\, and a Ph.D. in United States History from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/update-on-queens-university-with-dr-sarah-fatherly/
LOCATION:PUMC – Wolfe Hall\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SFatherly_5-19-2023.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250428T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250428T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000519
CREATED:20250320T172021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T172702Z
UID:10000157-1745834400-1745838000@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Wildacres 2025 Speaker Meg Johnson: Music Therapy
DESCRIPTION:Senior Scholars annual Wildacres retreat is scheduled for April 28-May 1\, 2025. For full details and to register for this event\, please go to the Wildacres page. \nTOPIC: Music Therapy: The science\, the singing and everything in between.\nSPEAKER: Meg Johnson\, Music Therapy Program Director and Clinical Coordinator\, Queens University \nThe presentation will provide an overview of the field of music therapy: the academic foundations\, the education of students and therapists\, the places we work and how we do what we do. \n\n  \nBIOGRAPHY \nMeg Stanley Johnson has extensive clinical experience with a variety of client populations including child\, adolescent and adult psychiatric settings\, memory care groups\, and children and adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities in both individual and group settings. Her current clinical focus is with young adults with autism who have limited verbal skills and a history of aggression. \nShe is the music therapy program director and clinical coordinator at Queens in addition to teaching in the music therapy and general education programs. \nEducation \n\nM.M.\, Neurologic Music Therapy\, Colorado State University\nB.M.\, Music Therapy\, Queens College\, Charlotte\, NC\nB.A.\, Psychology\, Queens College\, Charlotte\, NC\nBi www.musictherapy.org\nwww.ncmusictherapy.org\nwww.cbmt.org
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/wildacres-2025-speaker-meg-johnson-music-therapy/
LOCATION:Wildacres Retreat\, 1565 Wildacres Road\, Little Switzerland\, NC\, 28749\, United States
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations,Wildacres Retreat
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/MJohnson_9-27-2024.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250429T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250429T113000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250320T173132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T173602Z
UID:10000158-1745920800-1745926200@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Wildacres 2025 Speaker Joe Kendrick: How Music Impacts Society
DESCRIPTION:Senior Scholars annual Wildacres retreat is scheduled for April 28-May 1\, 2025. For full details and to register for this event\, please go to the Wildacres page.  \nTOPIC: Songs of Solidarity\, Songs of Protest\, Songs of Hope Amidst Struggle: A Brief Survey of the Impact of Music on the Radio for Social Movements\nSPEAKER: Joe Kendrick\, Director of Programming and Operations Manager\, WNCW \nAn overview of songs\, artists\, genres and eras of music on radio that reflect and have impacted various social movements in America. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nPublic radio programmer\, music host\, writer\, podcaster\, college instructor\, public speaker\, event producer \nMy role is to envision and develop the sound and image of WNCW\, create original programming and manage round the clock operations. I recruit\, develop and manage our programming staff. Also I host and produce weekly music shows and a bi-weekly podcast\, Southern Songs and Stories. I represent WNCW in person as well as virtually worldwide to donors and industry partners. Additionally\, I am part of the team that produces the annual Earl Scruggs Music Festival in Tryon\, NC. \nJoe Kendrick profile \n 
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/wildacres-2025-speaker-joe-kendrick-how-music-impacts-society/
LOCATION:Wildacres Retreat\, 1565 Wildacres Road\, Little Switzerland\, NC\, 28749\, United States
CATEGORIES:Speaker Presentations,Wildacres Retreat
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/JKendrick-1_1-17-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250502T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250502T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250317T152153Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T121108Z
UID:10000149-1746180000-1746183600@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:The Levine JCC's Butterfly Project with Lori Semel
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: The Levine JCC’s Butterfly Project with Lori Semel\nSPEAKER: Lori Semel\, Butterfly Project Coordinator \nThe Butterfly Project was developed as a call to action through education\, the arts\, and memorial making\, which uses the lessons of the Holocaust to educate about the dangers of hatred and bigotry and cultivates empathy and social responsibility. \nParticipants paint ceramic butterflies that are displayed as symbols of resilience and hope\, with the goal of creating 1.5 million butterflies around the world—one for each child who perished during the Holocaust\, and honoring the survivors. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nLori graduated from East Carolina University. She taught middle school for 10 years\, leaving to stay home with her two children. She began volunteering with the LJCC Butterfly Project in 2011\, joined as staff shortly after and is now Coordinator. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/the-levine-jccs-butterfly-project-with-lori-semel/
LOCATION:PUMC – Wolfe Hall\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/LSemel_4-25-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250509T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250509T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250317T152103Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250428T160037Z
UID:10000150-1746784800-1746788400@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Healthcare Delivery with Dr. Stephen Riggs
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Healthcare Delivery\, Past\, Present and a Future with AI\n\nSPEAKER:  Dr. Stephen Riggs\, Steve Riggs\, MD\, MBD\, FACS; Professor Advocate Health\, Wake Forest School of Medicine Vice Chair Department of Urology- Atrium Health Levine Cancer Center\, Carolinas Medical Center  \nHealthcare delivery is experiencing unprecedented change and growth. The United states spends more on healthcare than any other country but ranks low when measuring many health outcomes. Government (medicare and medicaid) health insurance remains a topic of great debate while Artificial intelligence brings excitement and new energy to fixing some of our greatest challenges. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nI am a Professor and Urologic Oncologist within the Department of Urology\, Wake Forest School of Medicine and Levine Cancer Institute within Advocate Health (formerly Atrium Health). I have an active clinical practice in Urologic Oncology and extensive experience in designing and conducting clinical trials. My clinical interest includes bladder\, kidney\, testis\, and prostate cancer with a research focus on standardization and optimization of surgical care. I currently serve Vice Chair for the Department of Urology\, Chair for Robotic Surgery and Strategy for the Southeast and Co-lead the Enterprise Surgical Quality committee focused on defining and standardizing surgical quality and operations across the Advocate Enterprise. \n\nMedical School: University of South Carolina College of Medicine\nResidency: Vanderbilt University – Surgery; University of Mississippi Medical Center – Urology\nFellowship: University of California Medical Center – Urologic Oncology\n\n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/healthcare-delivery-with-dr-stephen-riggs/
LOCATION:PUMC – Wolfe Hall\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/SRiggs_5-9-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250310T182846Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T154930Z
UID:10000137-1747389600-1747393200@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Charlotte Douglas International Airport Update with Jack Christine
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Charlotte Douglas International Airport Update\nSPEAKER: Jack Christine\, A.A.E.\, Chief Infrastructure Officer\, CLT Airport \nMr. Christine is overseeing Destination CLT\, a five-year\, $2.5-$3.1 billion capital program that includes planning\, design and construction of expansion of terminal and concourse\, and the development of numerous airfield projects. He will provide an update of progress and plans for the future. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nDetails coming soon. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/charlotte-douglas-international-airport-update-with-jack-christine/
LOCATION:Providence United Methodist Church (PUMC) – Wolfe Hall\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, North Carolina\, 28211
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/JChristine_5-16-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250523T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250523T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250407T181126Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T150201Z
UID:10000160-1747994400-1747998000@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Wildlife You May Know with Bob Senn
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Wildlife You May Know\nSPEAKER: Bob Senn\, Certified South Carolina Master Naturalist \nPresentation with slideshow\, and a side of humor\, on many of the wildlife seen in North and South Carolina. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nBob is a certified South Carolina Master Naturalist. There are five zones in SC and Bob was initially certified for the coastal zone in 2014.\nAfter working in that area and continuing with projects and education over the next several years around the state\, Bob became one of the few Naturalists with a Statewide certification in May\, 2017. Bob has done work with Sea Turtles\, Wolves\, Snakes\, Hawks\, Oyster Beds and other assorted wildlife.\nBob has given presentations to many groups and has led activities at Anne Close Greenway and the SCDNR (South Carolina Department of Natural Resources) Marine Research Center on James Island\, South Carolina. He is also a member of the South Carolina Association of Naturalists. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/wildlife-you-may-know-with-bob-senn/
LOCATION:Providence United Methodist Church (PUMC) – Wolfe Hall\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, North Carolina\, 28211
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/BSenn_4-23-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250530T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250530T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250430T151022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250527T215956Z
UID:10000151-1748599200-1748602800@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Charlotte Fire Department Update with Battalion Chief Horne
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Charlotte Fire Department Update \nSPEAKER:  Battalion Chief Horne \nChief Horne will provide us insight into the operations of an agency that is so critical to the safety of Charlotte. This talk\, which will be our last educational presentation for the spring term\, will serve as something of a counterpoint to last year’s presentation by the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/charlotte-fire-department-update-with-battalion-chief-horne/
LOCATION:Providence United Methodist Church (PUMC) – Wolfe Hall\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, North Carolina\, 28211
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/CHorne_5-30-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250912T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250912T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250512T165319Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T151630Z
UID:10000162-1757671200-1757674800@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Globalization\, Trade\, and Tariffs with Sergio Castello
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Globalization\, Trade\, and Tariffs\nSPEAKER: Sergio Castello\, Professor\, Wingate University \nA look at globalization since the 1970s to today and the importance of trade (and the notion of comparative advantage) in the US economy driven by multinational corporations and the TAA program to help dislocated workers. \n\nBIOGRAPHY\nSergio Castello was born in Barcelona\, Spain. At 18\, he came to the US with $157\, one suitcase and two tennis racquets. He earned a BBA in finance (minor in mathematics) from Freed-Hardeman University\, an MBA from the University of Memphis\, and a Ph.D. in international trade and finance from Colorado State University. He has been married to Lora for 35 years and have five children\, Katie\, Kerri (deceased)\, Walker\, Monica\, and Sofia. He enjoys playing tennis and golf and spending time in Montana. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/globalization-trade-and-tariffs-with-sergio-castello/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/SCastello-1_9-12-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250919T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250919T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20241014T205309Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T163259Z
UID:10000111-1758276000-1758279600@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Elections Integrity with Mary Jo McGowan
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Elections Integrity\nSPEAKER: Mary Jo McGowan\, Dept of Political Science and Public Administration\, UNC-Charlotte \nA review of the elections process helps folks understand how elections work and how confident we can be in our electoral process. \n\nBIOGRAPHY\nMary Jo McGowan is a faculty member at UNC Charlotte in the Department of Political Science and Public Administration. \nHer research focus is on public policies relating to elections and running for office. She is a part of a research team studying impacts of election administration on electoral outcomes. \nThe team (Martha Kropf\, Zachary Mohr\, Mary Jo McGowan and JoEllen V. Pope) will publish their study of election costs A Republic If You Can Afford It: How Much Does it Cost to Administer an Election later this year. \nAdditionally\, she studies policy complexity and its effect on outcome variables such as candidate decisions to run for office. Dr. McGowan teaches in the Model UN\, Public Policy\, and introductory Political Science courses. She is the Undergraduate Director for the Political Science Dept and Director of the American Studies program at UNC Charlotte. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/elections-review-with-mary-jo-mcgowan/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/MJMcGowan_10-13-2023.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250926T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250926T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250901T155630Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250915T154743Z
UID:10000169-1758880800-1758884400@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:U.S. Relationship with Mexico with Dr. Jurgen Buchenau
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: U.S. Relationship with Mexico: Past\, Present and Future\nSPEAKER: Dr. Jurgen Buchenau\, Dowd Term Professor of Capitalism Studies; Professor of History and Latin American Studies\, UNC Charlotte \nAn overview of the relationship between North America’s most populous countries since independence\, with special emphasis on the history of the border\, economic relations\, and immigration. \n\nBIOGRAPHY\nJürgen Buchenau is the Dowd Term Chair of Capitalism Studies\, the co-director of the Center for Migration and Diaspora Studies\, and Professor of History and Latin American Studies at UNC Charlotte. \nBuchenau has authored and edited thirteen books\, including Plutarco Elías Calles and the Mexican Revolution (2007)\, winner of the Alfred B. Thomas Book Award of the Southeastern Council of Latin American Studies\, and The Sonoran Dynasty in Mexico: Revolution\, Reform\, and Repression (2023). \nBuchenau’s research has been funded by the National Endowment of the Humanities and the American Philosophical Society. He is currently the editor of The Latin Americanist and two book series with Wiley and the University of New Mexico Press and has just completed a book on U.S.-Mexican relations. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/u-s-relationship-with-mexico-with-dr-jurgen-buchenau/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/JBunchenau_9-26-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251003T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251003T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250512T163530Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T154047Z
UID:10000161-1759485600-1759489200@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:How Old Age Echoes Young Age with Judy Goldman
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: How Old Age Echoes Young Age\nSPEAKER: Judy Goldman\, Author \nJudy will talk about how every age — young age and old age and every age in between — brings with it the fear of the unfamiliar\, as well as the exhilaration of trying out a new kind of existence. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nJudy Goldman has published eight award-winning books — four memoirs\, two novels\, and two collections of poetry. Her most recent book\, The Rest of Our Lives: A Memoir\, published in May 2025\, was named a best-seller by bookstores across the Southeast. Her work has appeared in USA Today\, Washington Post\, Real Simple\, Our State\, Charlotte Observer\, and in many anthologies and literary journals. \nBorn and raised in Rock Hill\, SC\, she has lived in Charlotte for 58 years. She and her husband have two married children and four grandchildren. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/how-old-age-echoes-young-age-with-judy-goldman/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/JGoldman_9-26-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251010T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251010T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250916T165952Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250916T171250Z
UID:10000180-1760090400-1760094000@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:The Government Accountability Office with Davis Judson
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: The Government Accountability Office\nSPEAKER: Davis Judson\, Senior Analyst\, GAO \nGAO has been called the congressional watchdog and the defender of the public interest. Learn about GAO’s unique role in the federal government and how it supports Congress with objective\, reliable\, and nonpartisan information. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nDavis Judson is a project manager in GAO’s financial markets and community investment team\, where he leads teams in evaluating government programs that span Wall Street to Main Street. He received an MPA from Cornell University and a BA in economics and urban studies from Washington University in St Louis. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/the-government-accountability-office-with-davis-judson/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251017T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251017T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250625T151350Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250716T164757Z
UID:10000164-1760695200-1760698800@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:The Pearl\, Charlotte's Innovation District with Hillary Crittendon
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: The Pearl\, Charlotte’s Innovation District\nSPEAKER: Hillary Crittendon \nThe Pearl\, anchored by Wake Forest School of Medicine\, is a 30-acre mixed-use development that includes education\, retail\, apartments\, a hotel\, open community space\, and health science research facilities. Located next to uptown and Atrium Health’s flagship hospital\, it aims to drive economic growth and job creation in the Charlotte Region. \nThis presentation will explore how public-private partnerships\, educational collaboration\, and strategic business development are fueling growth in the district. The Pearl exemplifies how innovation district can power transformation across education\, research\, healthcare and economic mobility–delivering a model of inclusive innovation that is uniquely Charlotte. \n\nBIOGRAPHY \nHillary Crittendon joined Atrium Health in early 2021 and serves as Head of Operations and Strategy for The Pearl\, Charlotte’s innovation district. \nPrior to joining Atrium Health\, Hillary was the Director of the Charlotte Executive Leadership Council\, a 30-member CEO council based in Charlotte which is focused on influencing economic mobility\, policy and economic development solutions for the region. She joined the CELC via McKinsey\, where she served as a consultant in various capacities over nearly 5 years. \nHillary holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in French from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill\, and a Masters in Business Administration from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. She has experience in investment banking\, having served as an analyst at Credit Suisse\, and in financial fundraising in the private equity and hedge fund industries. She also co-founded The Brandshop\, a startup marketing and consultancy focused on supporting growth of high-end female-owned retail and lifestyle brands. \nHillary serves on the board of the Urban League of Central Carolinas and the North Carolina Business Committee for Education (NCBCE). She also serves on the Advisory Board for the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System’s Career and Technical Education Program and on the Auxiliary of the Mint Museum. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/the-pearl-innovation-district-medical-school-with-mexico-with-hillary-crittendon/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/HCrittendon_10-17-2025.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251024T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251024T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20251015T203608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T142951Z
UID:10000185-1761300000-1761303600@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:The Future of Human-AI Relations with Mark Peres
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: The Future of Human-AI Relations\nSPEAKER:  Mark Peres\, Author/Professor/Founder \nIn this provocative and accessible talk\, ethicist and novelist Mark Peres invites audiences to explore one of the most profound questions of the 21st century: What does it mean to share the future with intelligent machines? \nDrawing on the ideas at the heart of his new novel\, The Accord\, Peres looks beyond today’s headlines to examine how artificial intelligence is reshaping our understanding of consciousness\, agency\, and responsibility — and how it might evolve from a mere tool into a genuine collaborator in the human story. \nThrough a blend of philosophy\, literature\, and real-world examples\, he outlines three possible futures for human–AI relations — subordination\, domination\, or transformative partnership — and offers guiding principles to ensure that this powerful technology serves humanity rather than distorts it. This is not a technical presentation but a spirited conversation about values\, imagination\, and the choices that will determine whether AI deepens our humanity or diminishes it. \n  \n  \n\nBIOGRAPHY\nMark Peres is founding director of The Charlotte Center for the Humanities & Civic Imagination\, the Charlotte Ideas Festival\, the On Life Life and Meaning podcast\, and Charlotte Viewpoint magazine. He is also an award-winning professor of leadership and ethics at Johnson & Wales University\, where he challenges students to reflect deeply on what it means to lead a good life. \nHe is the author of ‘The Accord’ – a novel on the future of human-AI relations\, and ‘The Man Who Lived a Hundred Lives’ – a memoir about his father’s improbable life and immigrant journey. He is the winner of the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Luminary Award for Lifetime Achievement. Mark is a graduate of The Florida State University College of Law\, and of Rollins College\, where he studied history and philosophy of religion. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/the-future-of-human-ai-relations-with-mark-peres/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MPeres_10-24-2025.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251031T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251031T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T000520
CREATED:20250625T151552Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T163516Z
UID:10000165-1761904800-1761908400@seniorscholars.net
SUMMARY:Energy Transition to Carbon Free Electricity with Neva Espinoza
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: Energy Transition to Carbon Free Electricity \nSPEAKER: Neva Espinoza\, Senior Vice President – Energy Supply and Low-Carbon Resources & Chief Generation Officer \nNeva Espinoza will discuss how nuclear power and other advanced technologies can enable a transition to affordable\, reliable\, and carbon-free electricity \n\nBIOGRAPHY\nNeva Espinoza is Senior Vice President\, Energy Supply and Low-Carbon Resources and Chief Generation Officer at EPRI.\nIn this role\, she leads a global team conducting EPRI research and development related to energy supply – including generation\, nuclear\, and low-carbon fuels – as electricity use continues growing through the energy transition. This includes conventional and advanced nuclear\, the existing fossil fleet\, large-scale renewable generation assets\, long duration energy storage\, and the production and use of low-carbon energy carriers. \nPrevious leadership roles included serving as EPRI’s Vice President of Energy Supply and Low-Carbon Resources and Director of R&D for the institute’s Generation Sector. She joined EPRI in January 2012 with more than 10 years of operational and engineering experience in the power industry\, across a diverse set of assets and technologies. Prior to EPRI\, Espinoza served in technical and leadership positions at NRG’s Arthur Kill Power Station\, Exelon’s Oyster Creek Power Station and Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory. \nEspinoza received a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Rutgers University and Master of Business Administration degree from Wake Forest University. She is a graduate of the U.S. Navy’s Officer Nuclear Power Program and held a senior reactor operator license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. \nEspinoza sits on the National Petroleum Council and the Georgia Institute of Technology Strategic Energy Institute Executive Advisory Board. \n\nNOTE: Attend in-person at PUMC\, no registration required. Attend via Zoom\, please register with the Zoom link above.
URL:https://seniorscholars.net/event/energy-transition-to-carbon-free-electricity-with-neva-espinoza/
LOCATION:Hybrid: In-Person at PUMC & via Zoom\, 2810 Providence Rd\, Charlotte\, NC\, 28211\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hybrid: In-person & Zoom,Speaker Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://seniorscholars.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/NEspinova_10-31-2025_r1.jpg
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