Monday Morning Update
October 05, 2009
Socratic Method: For their common intellectual experience, first-year students have gone Socratic, exploring the philosopher's famous contention that "the unexamined life is not worth living." While the dictum is old, the approach to sparking discussion around this question is modern - a documentary film featuring eight contemporary thinkers reflecting on issues such as consumption, individualism, disability, and revolution.
Examined Life: In viewing Examined Life, students see and hear modern philosophers thinking critically about ideas important to them and their work. On Thursday, October 8th this process steps it up a notch when director Astra Taylor speaks in the Sports Complex on the power of philosophy to transform. Taylor will be joined by her sister Sunaura, a visual artist and disabilities activist featured in the documentary. Open to the public, the event begins at 6 p.m. and is preceded by a showing of the documentary at 4 p.m., also in the Sports Complex. All are welcome. For more, visit here.
Culturally Numb: Last week, another filmmaker, Jen Marlowe, who has covered the world's hot spots from the Middle East to Darfur, sparked a different kind of debate and reflection. In her Art as Activism presentation in the Martin Institute, Marlowe argued that our corporate-driven popular culture keeps young people numb and distracted from issues of justice. For more, visit here.
Backpack Outreach: For the sixth year in a row, alumni volunteers have set a new record by filling 410 backpacks with school supplies for local children. Since filling 25 backpacks in 2004, the Community Affairs Committee of the Alumni Council has expanded this community outreach, which addresses the often overlooked expenses associated with school supplies for families in need. On Tuesday, Brockton Mayor James Harrington and members of the Brockton School Committee will thank our alumni volunteers for providing Brockton students with the tools they need to succeed.
London & Paris: The third Alumni Travel Program departs on October 10 for a nine-day Literary Tour of London & Paris. Provost and Academic Vice President Katie Conboy will serve as the faculty guide for alumni and friends as they tour the cities' historical and literary sites. To follow the group, read its travel blog at http://stonehillalumnitravel.blogspot.com/.
Close to Goal: With our recent gift of $7 million from Tom and Mary Shields, we have raised 88% of our $55 million Attaining the Summit campaign goal. With $48.5 million secured, Advancement Division staff are working to raise $6.5 million by June 30, 2010 to ensure success. To learn about giving to Stonehill, visit here.
Contact
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