Many notable speakers presented on their areas of expertise this year, giving students a look into how their studies might translate to real-world application and service after Valpo.
Ishmael Beah
The international studies department hosted Juan Cole, Richard P. Mitchell Collegiate Professor of History at the University of Michigan, who spoke on the Iraq War and the Origins of ISIS.
The Law School welcomed “Dead Man Walking” author Sister Helen Prejean, who spoke about her ongoing efforts to counsel death row inmates and their families.
The physics and astronomy department welcomed Jennifer Wiseman, who serves as senior astrophysicist at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and as senior project scientist for the Hubble Space Telescope.
Christ College — the Honors College hosted Mary Szybist, the 2013 National Book Award Winner for Poetry for her book, “Incarnadine.”
At Valpo’s MLK Day Celebration, Ishmael Beah, a former child soldier from Sierra Leone, spoke to the Valpo community about the devastating effects of war on children and his hope for restoration and reconciliation.
My plea to you: If you disagree with someone, be willing to have a true conversation … Never jump to conclusions.
Ishmael Beah, a former child soldier from Sierra Leone