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Freeing the Power of the Individual

September 2008 Archives

Sep
23

Pre-Performance Talks Continue in Theater

September 23, 2008 1:23 PM |

The Departments of English and Theater and Dance are delighted to announce the return of the Pre-Performance Talk Series that will accompany the 2008-09 Theater Season. This season, the USM Theater presents an eclectic mix of both classic and contemporary works: from Anton Chekhov's dark, comedic classic, The Cherry Orchard (1904) to the Tony Award winning, and controversial, musical Urinetown (2002). And, following in the success of last years Pre-Performance Talk Series, the English Department will present an equally impressive and eclectic mix of faculty members who will be leading the pre-show conversations. 

Opening the series, Dr. Monica Gehlawat will be giving the talk for Waiting for the Parade, on October 5th, 2008, at 1.p.m.  Dr. Gehlawat, a new faculty member this year, is a specialist in Modernist American Literature. Her innovative research in literature, art, and transatlantic culture will bring a fresh perspective to this award winning play.

Sep
22

Reading and "The Big Read"

September 22, 2008 4:36 PM |
We know from years of research that reading is on the decline among all age groups.  We also know the importance of regular reading for academic success, and for promoting engagement, tolerance, and creative thinking.  Put those two realities side by side and it becomes evident that something needs to be done to encourage students to develop a regular habit of reading.

The College's Department of English has done something:  through a grant from the NEA and its "Big Read" project, the faculty and students in English are promoting reading from September 25th through October 25th in a series of community events. 

As one of only 200 organizations receiving these funds, the USM Department of English is taking a major step forward to support regular reading of literature, by focusing on Zora Neale Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God."  The kickoff event this Thursday is from 5 until 7 pm at the Cultural Center in downtown.  Everyone is invited to attend!
Sep
05

Center for Black Studies

September 5, 2008 4:46 PM |
Yesterday was a day filled with celebration of the first anniversary of the Center for Black Studies at Southern Miss.  Our center is the first and only approved center bringing together students, (many taking an academic minor in Black Studies) faculty, and community to advance understanding of black history, culture, achievement, and possibility.  The Center is about more than just academic inquiry--it also works to directly engage participants in the life of local communities as a positive force for change.

The visit by famed TV and movie actor and activist Danny Glover, and an address from long-serving congressman Bennie Thompson were icing on the cake.  What a great way to celebrate the new Center and its first year of achievements.
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