Conversations Project to discuss mascot

Mon, November 10, 2008 |

The Valparaiso University Conversations Project will continue its programming with a Nov. 17 discussion "What's in a Name? The VU Crusader Mascot."

The discussion will begin at 7 p.m. in the Christopher Center Community Room and is free and open to the public. Panelists will start a conversation exploring the Crusader mascot, the cultural legacy of the Crusades and the importance of maintaining University traditions. Audience members will be encouraged to share their views on the subject.

Starting the conversation will be panelists Dr. Tim Tomasik, an assistant professor of foreign languages and literatures who teaches courses in medieval and early modern civilization and literature; Alan Holderread, a senior civil engineering major from North Liberty and chair of the University's Social Action and Leadership Team; and Johnna Venuto, a sophomore international business major from Cranberry Township, Pa., who is preparing to pursue deaconess studies. Mark LaBarbera, director of athletics, will serve as moderator.

A reception following the public discussion will allow audience members to continue individual conversations with one another and the panelists.

The goal of the Conversations Project is to promote mutual education, understanding and political reconciliation through dialog, while at the same time forging connections between the University and Northwest Indiana community. The program is supported by Valparaiso's School of Law and the Valparaiso Project on Civic Reflection.

Upcoming Conversations Project events include a February discussion on the $700 billion federal bailout plan and an April discussion on energy policy and environmental justice. For more information about the Conversations Project, contact Jeremy Telman, associate professor of law, at (219) 465-7811, by e-mail to Jeremy.Telman@valpo.edu or visit the Conversations Project Web site.