 Dear Senior Academy Members, A sincere welcome to a new academic year even though many of us have not been tied to or are no longer tied to this particular rhythm in our lives. And, more importantly, a special welcome to those newly retired and also those who joined the academy as dues-paying members. It is a pleasure and privilege to extend greetings to all long-term and recent members. May you all have had a wonderful break and, hence, an enjoyable summer! After a long, unusual year because of the restrictions dictated by the COVID-19 pandemic hopes had been high to return to in-person modes of communication and connecting with each other. Those hopes have been dashed by the Delta variant of the coronavirus and set us back to observing guidelines that recommend masks indoors and social distancing outdoors even for those who are fully vaccinated. As classes, meetings, and other responsibilities resume in the fall, the calendar of events organized and sponsored by the Senior Academy is taking shape too. Please take note of those programs and mark your calendars. For particulars, especially event registration, always consult the “Upcoming Events” tab on the Senior Academy website. Some events are already firm, others are still being planned before they can be confirmed. Beginning with the definite events: Updating the Encyclopedia of Indianapolis on Wednesday, September 8, from 2–4 p.m., via Zoom, is presented by Beth Van Allen shortly before the formal launch of the project on September 30th (registration is now open). On Thursday, September 23, from 10:30 a.m.–12 noon, via Zoom, Helen Schwartz, a former member of the Department of English who has recently published a book based on her research on art and spying during the Nazi era, will present a fascinating part of that story, Renoir's Three Sisters and Nazi Art Theft. The caution evident about scheduling meeting venues in September is being offset in early October with an in-person picnic in Eagle Creek Park. Details about where to gather, how to get there, and what to bring on Tuesday, October 5, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. will follow at a later time. Similarly, plans for an all-day visit to the Miller House in Columbus, Indiana, on Wednesday, October 27, await confirmation and a more detailed announcement later in September. Erwin "Erv" Boschmann, Professor Emeritus of chemistry, former associate dean of faculties, and recipient of the IUPUI 50th Anniversary Chancellor's Medallion, will present the Last Lecture on Friday, November 5, at 2 p.m., followed by a reception, if circumstances permit—a welcome opening of an opportunity to meet with friends and colleagues on campus. On Wednesday, November 10, from 3–4 p.m., the Senior Academy is taking a sponsorship role in the 2021 Spirit & Place Festival with the topic of CHANGE, when Peter Thuesen, professor of religious studies, presents a lecture about violent weather and American religion, based on his book Tornado God. Following tradition, the December event is a holiday party at the Ivy Tech Community College Courses Restaurant. When we gather on the top floor of the building on 2820 N. Meridian Street on Thursday, December 9, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m., the spectacular view is one of the pleasures of this event. Additional programs that await finalization include a workshop “Cutting the Cord” about streaming and other online options for education and entertainment other than cable television. A report about the “State of Aging in Central Indiana,” and a follow-up on last year’s program on “Transition to Retirement,” with this year’s theme focused on “Streamlining your Life.” Last year the Membership and Communications committees worked hard on making the Member Center a place on the Senior Academy website to facilitate communication among and with members, especially bringing together those who share interests. There are now three such interest groups: IUPUI String Theory Group; Book Club; and the Walking Group. Whether you are interested in one or all of the fall events or would like to join or try out any of the interest groups, you are welcome, as are guests. Whether you are a member yourself or want to invite or encourage a guest to sign up, you can register for a listed event, using the “Upcoming Events” tab on the Senior Academy website. The Senior Academy encourages all of its members to stay in touch and become engaged. It is easy to connect through the website or directly with the President. Marianne S. Wokeck For questions and comments, contact us at ude[dot]iupui[at]ymedacas. |
