SwampFox

An Evening of Great Conversations

Contact: Tammy Whaley, 864-503-5210 or twhaley@uscupstate.edu

Spartanburg, S.C. –The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of South Carolina Upstate will host its fourth annual “An Evening of Great Conversations” on Thursday, February 28. Twelve conversations on a variety of important topics are offered and each dinner table will engage in a different conversation, facilitated by a faculty expert on the topic.

The conversations are extraordinarily interesting and varied, including crime and forensic science, climate change, demons, film and culture, presidential politics, cool technologies, addictions, theatre as a reflection of life, youth leadership in Spartanburg and the world, genocide, the Middle East, and what it takes to become a writer.

The event begins at 6:00 p.m. with cocktails, followed by dinner and conversations at 6:45 p.m. Guests sign up in advance for the conversation of their choice. This year’s event is sponsored by Steve Harvey, a 1980 alumnus of USC Upstate and owner of Roebuck Advertising.

“This is one of our strongest line-ups ever,” said Dr. York Bradshaw, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “The table topics and facilitators are incredibly interesting. Table leaders include forensic scientists, climatologists, a demonologist, technologists, social scientists, area studies experts, and leaders in the humanities and arts.”

Reservations for this event are $70 per person and must be made no later than February 25. For more information, contact Shawn Masto at (864) 503-5700 or smasto@uscupstate.edu.

1. The Real CSI: Chemistry, Crime, and Forensics
Back by popular demand! This is our longest-running table at Great Conversations . . .

Television shows don’t begin to tell the whole story! Crime scene investigations are neither glamorous nor simple – but they are extremely important. Real crime scene investigations are a sophisticated blend of evidence gathering and chemistry, of outstanding police work and forensic science. Learn the entire process of how serious crimes are really solved during this conversation. The next time you watch CSI, you may find yourself saying, “Oh no, it’s not really done that way. Actually, they . . .”

You will have the opportunity to learn from two experts in the field. Dr. Christopher Bender is an associate professor of chemistry and director of the forensic science program at USC Upstate. And Dr. Stephen Ruegger is an assistant professor of criminal justice with a background in law enforcement. Together, these two individuals have extensive knowledge and experience of what it takes to solve puzzling crimes.

2. How Hot is Too Hot?: Fact and Fiction in the Debate Over Climate Change
There is growing consensus in the scientific community that the world is heating up, literally! And national polls show that Americans are increasingly concerned about the effects of global climate change. But how much has the world warmed up, what is causing it, and what are the likely consequences of rising temperatures (in ten years, twenty years, fifty years)? Moreover, what can be done (if anything) to cool things off? This table will look at all of these issues from a scientific (non-political) perspective. The conversation will also look at why some people continue to insist that global warming is a hoax. Regardless of your personal view, if you want to learn more about this controversial and important issue, this table is for you.

You will have the opportunity to discuss global climate change with two experts in the field. Dr. Jack Turner, professor of biology and director of USC Upstate’s Watershed Ecology Institute, has long studied and conducted research on the effects of climate change. And Dr. Chip Green, professor of geology, has taught courses and conducted research on different aspects of global warming. Moreover, he recently organized a day-long symposium in the Upstate that examined the causes and effects of global climate change.

3. Do Demons Exist Today?: A Look into the Dark Side of Life
Through the centuries, people have debated the origin of seemingly evil events. Why is there mass murder? Abuse? Violent crime? Addiction? Corruption? Human trafficking? Torture? War crimes? Are these human problems, that is, are some people actually capable of such heinous actions on their own? Or, is something more sinister at play, that is, do evil spirits (such as Satan, the devil, demons) really exist and wreak havoc on the world – possibly working through people? Is demon possession fact or fiction? And, if demon possession is real, can people be “cured” through exorcism? Ultimately, the answers to these questions depend on your religion, your personal experiences, and your feelings about the relationship between individuals and the spiritual world. Table participants will have the opportunity to discuss these complex and sometimes frightening issues. This table is not for the faint of heart!

Your table leader will be Dr. William Bradshaw, a retired minister and college president who has a graduate degree in divinity from Yale University and a Ph.D. degree in demonology from the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. Dr. Bradshaw has written extensively on the topic of demonology. His most recent book, Sinister Among Us, is a novel that takes place on a college campus in rural Indiana. The interim president finds himself beset with so many unusual problems that he begins to wonder whether there is a more sinister explanation for what is going on.

4. Film, Culture, and Community: Are They Really Connected?
There is nothing quite like the movies. We watch them to see what we have never seen before: spaceships traveling at light speed, gladiators fighting to the death in the Coliseum. We also watch movies to see everyday actions: a conversation between friends, a first kiss. What we like (or don’t like) about movies speaks volumes about ourselves and how we fit into our cultures and communities. Table participants will discuss the connection among film, culture, and community in the United States. Please be prepared to discuss your favorite and least favorite movies; you may be surprised about why you like (and don’t like) them!

Your film guide for the evening will be Dr. Peter Caster, assistant professor of English and film studies. Dr. Caster is a prolific author and well-known film critic in the Upstate. If you want to talk movies with someone who is as passionate about the topic as you, then don’t miss this opportunity to dialogue with Dr. Caster.

5. So, You are Running for President
Presidential politics are inherently interesting – from the institution and its place in American politics to the personalities who occupy the office. Since we are currently witnessing the most open field of presidential contenders since 1928, the campaign is going to be especially interesting between now and November. This nonpartisan table conversation will focus on presidential politics in modern America, the dramatic landscape of the race this electoral cycle, and an unbiased evaluation of the candidates and their chances. Drawing on insights from political science and history, the table will discuss why presidential politics are so interesting, and why it means so much in America. The conversation will also take special note of South Carolina’s featured place in both the Republican and Democratic primary schedules. It is going to be a terrific evening! And who said you shouldn’t discuss politics at the dinner table?

Your table host will be Dr. Timothy Dale, assistant professor of political science. Dr. Dale teaches courses and conducts research on American politics. A popular professor and political analyst, he has the unique ability to make politics fun, interesting, and understandable. All in a nonpartisan way!

6. New Technologies, Cool Technologies: Transforming Schools, Businesses, Churches, and other Institutions
Podcasts, vodcasts, interactive tablets, digital storytelling, global classrooms, virtual field trips, media literacy, on-line learning, United Streamline . . . do these sound like a foreign language to you? If so, here is your opportunity to learn something new. This table is all about cool technologies. Innovative schools (even elementary schools), businesses, churches, and other organizations are increasingly using new forms of technology to teach students, conduct business, deliver religious messages, and connect with a broader world. What are the opportunities and challenges associated with new technologies, and how can you get better acquainted with them? This conversation is also a great way for parents and grandparents to learn more about what their children and grandchildren are doing with those “space age” gadgets! Several technologies will be demonstrated during dinner.

Your table hosts include two leaders in the field of technology and learning. Professor Tasha Thomas, director of the Spartanburg Writing Project, is an expert on the integration of technology into educational institutions. And Dr. York Bradshaw, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, has long used different types of technology to connect schools around the world.

7. Feels so Good, but It’s Not: The Causes and Effects of Addiction
Many people argue that alcohol and drug addiction have reached epidemic proportions in the U.S. The problems associated with these conditions are quite costly, both for the individual and society as a whole. Researchers are working to discover the factors that cause addictions to develop in the first place, and the reasons that people use and abuse these substances – despite their negative (and often devastating) consequences. Beyond these “major” addictions, there is growing concern about so-called “minor” addictions such as gambling, shopping, sex, and Internet usage. Are these addictions similar to substance addictions? This table conversation will take a look at different types of addiction, the problems experienced by people who are addicted, reasons why people become addicted, and why they can’t seem to stop.

Your table host will be Dr. Stefanie Keen, a clinical/developmental psychologist and assistant professor in the Department of Psychology. Dr. Keen teaches a variety of courses in abnormal and developmental psychology and conducts research related to the effects of trauma and alcohol/drug addiction.

8. Theatre as a Reflection of Life: Trends in the United States, Canada, and Europe
Ever since the ancient Greeks, theatre has been a vehicle to entertain, educate, advocate, provoke, and rebel. Consequently, theatre creates a wide range of emotion among audience members – from extreme happiness to intense anger. Why is theatre so powerful? Why does it touch the human condition so deeply? And what are some current trends in theatre – in the United States, Canada, and Europe? (You may be surprised at what is happening in Canada!) These questions and more will be addressed during the evening. If you are looking for an exceptionally lively
table – with a bit of real drama – this table is for you!

You will have the opportunity to discuss these issues with Professor Jimm Cox, director of theatre at USC Upstate for 30 years. He has directed more than 100 theatrical productions including industrial shows, professional, and academic theatre offerings. His work has appeared on PBS and in various corporate headquarters in Manhattan. Professor Cox also leads a 5-week study abroad program in London each Summer. Not surprisingly, he has been USC Upstate’s Teacher and Adviser of the Year on multiple occasions.

9. A Brighter Future: Developing Youth Leaders for Spartanburg and the World
For two years, USC Upstate’s Community Outreach Partnership Center (COPC) has provided many programs for young people in Spartanburg and other areas of the world, often in collaboration with a variety of community partners. Through a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, these programs have reached more than 2,000 young people, especially on Spartanburg’s Southside. The grant funds a Youth Leadership Institute, a summer international camp, information technology classes, intensive tutoring and mentoring activities, fine arts camps, and much more. Many of these activities are in collaboration with the Spartanburg Youth Council and other partners. Together, Spartanburg organizations and institutions are developing outstanding local and global leaders for tomorrow. If you want to hear positive stories about young people, then don’t miss this conversation!

Your table hosts will be two of Spartanburg’s leading youth advocates. Dr. Jennifer Parker is assistant dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and associate professor of psychology. Dr. Parker is integrally involved in youth activities throughout Spartanburg, directing some of the most innovative youth programs in the area. She is an expert at forging partnerships among groups in order to promote youth development. And Ms. Lavinia Hurley is coordinator of the Spartanburg Youth Council, a coalition of more than 100 representatives from non-profits, businesses, schools, youth-serving organizations, law enforcement agencies, the faith community, and government. Her efforts on behalf of young people have been widely recognized across the Upstate.

10. “Never Again” is Really “Again and Again”: The Continued Horror of Genocide in the World
Following World War II, the U.S. and many other countries proclaimed “never again.” Never again would sadistic madmen be allowed to kill millions of people and destroy nations. But what happened? Tens of millions of people have been killed in episodes of genocide over the last 50 years in Europe, Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Just since the early 1990s, the world has witnessed ethnic cleansing (and millions killed) in the former Yugoslavia, Rwanda, Congo, and Darfur. “Never again” seems to have turned into “again and again.” But what causes these events? How can they be stopped? And how do they affect us in the U.S.? In fact, genocide in “far off” lands has a number of consequences for our everyday lives here in America.

Your conversation leader for the evening will be Dr. Rob McCormick, assistant professor of history. Dr. McCormick teaches courses and conducts research on the topics of war, genocide, and nation building. His recently published article on genocide in Croatia during World War II shows that this tragedy often repeats itself in the same place. Dr. McCormick is a popular speaker before community and civic groups, primarily because he has a particular talent for explaining complex world events in a lively and understandable way.

11. Flashpoint: The Enduring Significance of the Middle East to the U.S. and World
Quiz time: Where do Europe, Asia, and Africa come together? Where do Islam, Christianity, and Judaism converge? Where do cultures clash and coexist? Where do outsiders help and hinder? Where do hopes live and die? The answer: The Middle East, of course. This incredible region continues to fascinate and confound us. And one thing is for certain: what happens in the region does not stay in the region! In fact, events in the Middle East have a profound impact on the U.S. and world. This table conversation will look at the challenges and opportunities in the Middle East, and consider how they affect the U.S. and other countries. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to learn more about a region that defies easy explanation.

Your table host will be Dr. Lizabeth Zack, assistant professor of sociology. Dr. Zack is uniquely qualified to lead this fascinating conversation. She was awarded a very prestigious Fulbright Award and spent all of last year in Jordan. She traveled throughout the region, taught at a major university, interviewed many Middle Eastern citizens, and reflected on the significance of this region to the world.

12. It’s Not as Easy as it Looks: Publishing Books, Articles, and other Works
We all read books, articles, newspapers, journals, and other works. Some of us have even tried writing them. What does it take to become a published author in today’s competitive writing environment? How do writers decide on a topic or story, create their work, and influence public opinion? How much influence do writers want? How does technology affect this craft? All of these questions (and more) will be discussed during this very interesting conversation. Whether you are a published author, an aspiring author, or just interested in a behind-the-scenes look at writing, this table will be inspiring and lots of fun! Please come ready to discuss your favorite literature, whether fact or fiction.

Your table host will be Dr. Thomas McConnell, associate professor of English Literature and director of USC Upstate’s Honors Program. Dr. McConnell is a prolific and award-winning writer – the author of numerous books and articles. As if that is not enough, Dr. McConnell was also a Fulbright Scholar three years ago, during which time he taught English and wrote books in the Czech Republic.