The 2014-15 Notre Dame Forum, commencing Sept. 15, will explore the question “What do Notre Dame graduates need to know?” Forum events will focus on the knowledge graduates require to face the challenges and opportunities that exist for them as participants in a democratic society, citizens of a wider world and people of faith.
Established in 2005 by President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., the Notre Dame Forum has featured major talks by leading authorities on complex issues related to immigration, sustainability, global health, the global marketplace, K-12 education and women in leadership.
“Each year the purpose of the Notre Dame Forum is to stimulate discussion among members of the campus community about an important topic," Father Jenkins said. “As the University undertakes a review of its undergraduate curriculum, this year’s Forum invites us to reflect, within the context of the various disciplines, on the knowledge and skills university graduates of the 21st century should possess, in order to best serve the world and the Church.”
This year’s inaugural event features Carl Wieman, winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics and professor of physics at Stanford University. Wieman will present “Taking a Scientific Approach to Science Education” at 7 p.m. Sept. 15 (Monday) at the Leighton Concert Hall in the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center. Wieman will examine the discrepancies in the advancement of science compared to advances in science education, and how recent research is setting the stage for a new, more effective approach to teaching and learning. Michael Hildreth, professor of physics, will offer commentary, reflecting upon the application of Professor Wieman’s insights to teaching and learning at Notre Dame. Rebecca Wingert, Elizabeth and Michael Gallagher assistant professor of biological sciences, will serve as moderator.
Upcoming Forum events will also include Catherine Cornille, chairwoman of Boston College’s theology department, and Cyril O’Regan, Huisking professor of theology at Notre Dame at 6:00 p.m. Oct. 6 (Monday) in 102 DeBartolo Hall, as well as Richard Brodhead, president of Duke University at 5:00 p.m. Nov. 4 (Tuesday) in the Hesburgh Center Audiotorium.
The events are free and open to the public.
Contact: Bridget Keating, Office of the President, 574-631-9339, bkeating@nd.edu