Shenandoah University’s One Big Question series will conclude its Spring 2022 slate with a special, quick-hitting session that will touch on a variety of topics.
The session, dubbed “SU Lightning Talk,” takes place on Wednesday, May 4, at 4 p.m. in Henkel Hall, Hester Auditorium, and will feature short presentations from Shenandoah faculty and other members of the SU community. Speakers will have five minutes to educate attendees about any topic of their choosing.
Topics can be closely related to their academic area of expertise, or simply a hobby or passion that the speaker wishes to share information about. For example, one presenter may delve into the science behind the benefits of the bacteria that live within our digestive systems, while the next may deliver a passionate tutorial that explores how to make the perfect baguette.
Topics will not be disclosed prior to the event, creating an element of surprise for those in attendance.
Presentations may be fully verbalized, though it’s expected that many speakers will utilize short slideshow presentations, videos, photos, physical demonstrations, and other means to keep the audience entertained and engaged. A moderator will quickly transition the audience from one presenter to the next, with no time for questions or debates between speakers. This creates a fast-paced, engaging and often humorous event for attendees.
The free event is open to all members of the Shenandoah University community. Space is expected to fill up quickly, so seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
”One Big Question is delighted to conclude our offerings for the 2021-22 academic year with a unique event, showcasing the great depth and breadth of talent within the College of Arts and Sciences,” said Jonathan Noyalas, director of Shenandoah University’s McCormick Civil War Institute and a member of the One Big Question committee.
The College of Arts and Sciences debuted One Big Question in 2019 to engage the Shenandoah campus and broader community in open, respectful and civic dialogue on critical topics of the day. The series uses a mix of invited speakers, faculty lectures, cultural performances, specially designed courses, and other events to highlight and discuss a specific question chosen for each academic year.
This year’s One Big Question series features the central question, “Why does it matter?” The series kicked off the 2021-22 academic year with four sessions in the fall, and two additional sessions have taken place so far this spring.
For more information, visit su.edu/obq.
