EMU News often publishes event previews. Visit  to view latest postings or to subscribe to the news digest to receive Tuesday morning weekly updates.

January

Jan. 12 — Exploring Research Showcase. Come hear EMU STEM faculty and students share highlights from a range of opportunities, including research projects, internships, and other applied STEM experiences. 10:15 a.m., Suter Science Center (SSC) 106.

Jan. 14 — Campus Worship: Hymn Sing for Hope. Students and faculty from EMU’s Music and Peacebuilding major lead a hymn sing. Learn more about campus worship and other worship services on campus here. 10:15-11:05 a.m., Martin Chapel, Seminary Building.

Jan. 16 — Winter Unconference session: Divisional Structure Update. Divisional Deans Sarah Bixler and Michael Horst will provide an overview of the most recent phase of work, which includes the creation of the department structure, program leadership, and describe the collaborative process of configuring departments. 10:15-11:15 a.m., Strite Conference Room (Campus Center 105).

Jan. 16 — Opening reception for exhibition by landscape oil painting artist . 4-5 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery (University Commons 179).

Jan. 19 — MLK Jr. Celebration 2026. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Beyond the Dream: Social Justice and Ecological Consciousness.” Events include a convocation with featured speaker Olúfẹ́mi O. Táíwò (10:15-11:30 a.m., Lehman Auditorium), soapmaking and fire cider sessions (registration required), and a world climate simulation. Times and locations available at .

Jan. 26 — Concerto/Aria Competition. The student-musicians who win this competition will earn coveted spots to perform as soloists with the EMU Orchestra during its spring Concerto/Aria Orchestra Concert in April. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Jan. 27 Rescheduled for April 21 — Sabbatical Spotlight with Jim Yoder, professor of biology at EMU. “Tracking the Untrackable: Animal Movement and Behavior at the Smallest Scales.” Dr. Yoder will briefly share his own journey of studying animal movement from birds and mammals at large spatial scales to tephritid fruit flies using harmonic radar in Australia. He will also focus on his newest research project studying tick movement and behavior, also utilizing harmonic radar. 12:10-1:10 p.m., West Dining Room.

February

Feb. 4 — Celebrate Black History Month with EMU’s Black Student Alliance during Convocation. 10:15 a.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Feb. 6 — Suter Science Seminar with Lee Brown, assistant professor of biology at James Madison University. “Things We Miss When We Take for Granted What We [Don’t] Know – Lessons From a Few Years of Monarch Butterfly Research.” Dr. Brown presents research from her lab since 2023 investigating the use of radio telemetry for tracking monarch movements, and the conservation-relevant discoveries that have emerged. 10:15-11:15 a.m., SSC 106.

Feb. 6 — International Food Festival. The beloved annual event provides an opportunity for students, faculty, and members of the surrounding community to share the great wonders of their respective cultures through food. 5:30 p.m., University Commons Hall of Nations.

Feb. 20 — Suter Science Seminar with Paula Skye Tallman, assistant professor of anthropology at Loyola University Chicago. “Action Research: Water Insecurity, Women’s Health, and Socio-Environmental Justice.” Dr. Tallman will review the ways that water insecurity influences women’s health on a global scale. She will then discuss how her team has used an “action research” framework to connect scientific research to on-the-ground action to promote gender equality and environmental conservation in Peru and Indonesia. 10:15-11:15 a.m., SSC 106.

Feb. 24 — Sabbatical Spotlight with Ji Eun Kim, associate professor of political science at EMU. “A Year of Surprise, Unexpected Turns, and Resilience.” 12:10-1 p.m., West Dining Room.

Feb. 26 — Wind Ensemble Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Feb. 27 — Opening reception for exhibition by Charlottesville-based mixed media artist . 4-5 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery (University Commons 179).

Feb. 28-March 5 — Chamber Singers Spring Break Tour. Locations and times of performances to be announced.

March

Spring Break for students is between Feb. 28 and March 8. Classes resume on Monday, March 9.

March 11 — Campus Worship: Fasting and Feasting. This campus worship service, co-sponsored by the Center for Interfaith Engagement (CIE), will explore the practices of Fasting and Feasting for religious observances including Ramadan (Islam), Lent (Western Christianity), and The Great Lent (Eastern Orthodox Christianity). 10:15-11:05 a.m., Martin Chapel.

March 13 — Suter Science Seminar with Grayson Mast ’18, general surgery resident at Old Dominion University. “Checking In: Updates from a Surgeon in Training.” Dr. Mast’s presentation will focus on the pathway to becoming a surgeon, describing his day-to-day experience, and an overview of his clinical research. He will also discuss the importance that his time at EMU had in shaping his worldview, practice of medicine, and approach to patient care. 10:15-11:15 a.m., SSC 106.

March 13 — Film screening for VACA Professor Elizabeth Miller Derstine‘s The Weight of Armor. Feast your eyes upon the first edit of Miller-Derstine’s newest film and give her notes by filling out a form following the show. Synopsis: “Tucked inside a Nashville strip mall is Nashville Armored Combat (NAC), the nation’s only gender-inclusive medieval armored combat gym. This film covers three raw, urgent, intertwined stories about carving out space and fighting to keep it.” 8 p.m., SSC 106.

March 24 — Sabbatical Spotlight with Jeffrey Copeland, professor of biology at EMU. “Sleep, Fat, and Aging: Investigating the Role of Serotonin and Glutamate in Biological Behaviors.” Dr. Copeland uses the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster to investigate the activity of the neurotransmitter serotonin in sleep and circadian rhythms, as well as glutamate in aging. 12:10-1 p.m., West Dining Room.

March 27 — Mornings with the Mayor, featuring Harrisonburg Mayor Deanna Reed. University Commons Student Union, 10:15-11:05 a.m. Read about last year’s inaugural event here.

March 27 — Royal Women dedication of the Inclusivity Science Mural. Pınar Ateş Sinopoulos-Lloyd is an Indigenous eco-philosopher, artist, and wildlife tracker and is one of the scientists featured in the Inclusivity Science Mural located in the Suter Science Center. After a guest appearance at Mornings with the Mayor, they will be participating in the mural dedication. 4 p.m. at Suter Science Center.

March 27 — Senior Show Art Opening #1. Come see the final projects of the first group of senior VACA students. 4-5 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery (University Commons 179).

April

EMU observes an Easter Recess for Good Friday on April 3.

April 1 — LovEMU Pep Rally. This fun-filled celebration kicks off the 10th annual LovEMU Giving Day. 10:15-11:05 a.m., University Commons Yoder Arena.

April 8 — Campus Worship: Celebrating Easter! This campus worship service, co-sponsored by Eastern Mennonite Seminary, is dedicated to celebrating Easter with readings, reflections, and music on the significance of Easter. 10:15-11:05 a.m., Martin Chapel.

April 9-12 — EMU Theatre presents “The Winter’s Tale: A Musical Adaptation.” Written by William Shakespeare and musically adapted by EMU Theatre, this heartwarming tale for the ages follows the journeys of two kingdoms, a rift between kings, a lost queen, and the love that brings them back to one another. 7:30 p.m., April 9-12. All shows in EMU Lee Eshleman Studio Theater. Tickets available Feb. 1.

April 13 — Film screening for VACA Professor Elizabeth Miller Derstine‘s . 8-9:30 p.m., SSC 106.

April 15 — ACE Festival Keynote with Dr. Deborah Lawrence, the director of research and analytics for nature-based solutions and engineered carbon dioxide removals. “Our Connection to Nature: Gift, Joy, Grief and a Life’s Work.” 10:15-11:15 a.m., Lehman Auditorium.

April 16 — EMU’s Academic and Creative Excellence (ACE) Festival 2026 continues with a full day of scholarly presentations, poster sessions, a music department student recital (12:10 p.m., Lehman Auditorium), and an authors’ reception and award presentation (3:45-5 p.m., University Commons Hall of Nations and Student Union). View a full schedule of ACE Festival events at .

April 16 — Senior Show Art Opening #2 (during ACE Festival). Come see the final art projects of the second group of senior VACA students. 4:45-5:30 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery (University Commons 179).

April 16 — Wind Ensemble Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

April 17 — University Choir Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

April 18 — Senior recital featuring Naomi Kratzer. 3 p.m., Martin Chapel.

April 19 — Chamber Singers Spring Concert. 7 p.m., Park View Mennonite Church (1600 College Ave., Harrisonburg).

April 21 — Sabbatical Spotlight with Jim Yoder, professor of biology at EMU. “Tracking the Untrackable: Animal Movement and Behavior at the Smallest Scales.” Dr. Yoder will briefly share his own journey of studying animal movement from birds and mammals at large spatial scales to tephritid fruit flies using harmonic radar in Australia. He will also focus on his newest research project studying tick movement and behavior, also utilizing harmonic radar. 12:10-1:10 p.m., West Dining Room.

April 23 — Jazz Ensemble Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

April 24 — Cords of Distinction ceremony. Ten graduating seniors will be honored with the Cords of Distinction award, which recognizes those who have made outstanding contributions to the university, community, and society over the course of their college careers. 10:10 a.m., Martin Chapel.

April 24 — Orchestra Spring Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

May

The 108th University Commencement is from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2026. Commencement for the EMU Lancaster campus is Friday, May 8, 2026.

May 2 — Graduate Celebration and Sending. The ceremony includes presidential and faculty addresses, senior class salutations, and the presentation of the senior class gift, as well as moments of prayer, music, and poetry from graduates. 7-8:30 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

More information

Arts at EMU — To learn more about music, theater, and visual and communication arts at EMU, visit emu.edu/arts.

Center for Interfaith Engagement — The Center for Interfaith Engagement (CIE) at ��ݮ���� promotes collaboration among religious and nonreligious scholars and practitioners, provides education in our principles and practices, and creates a safe space for developing authentic relationships and mutual understanding both between and within communities. CIE partners with people and organizations for interfaith education and service to promote a more just and peaceful world.

 — Each year, a variety of expert scientists visit EMU’s campus to share their insights. Refreshments provided.

University Chapel — A community gathering place for worship and forum, chapel reflects an Anabaptist/Mennonite perspective alongside the gifts, traditions and cultures of the broader Christian faith. Faith, hope and love are nurtured in the way of Jesus. Faculty, staff, students, and community members are invited to gather every other Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. for campus worship in Martin Chapel. A student-led song, prayer and worship service is held most Sunday evenings at 7 p.m. in University Commons Room 177 (Old Common Grounds). Podcasts available.

This listing includes events for the fall semester at EMU. To see most current details, additional events and further information, please visit the events calendar at: 

EMU News often publishes event previews. Visit  to view latest postings or to subscribe to the news digest to receive Tuesday morning weekly updates.

September

Sept. 5 — Convocation: Unlocking the Brain. John Almarode, professor of education at James Madison University, will help students and faculty learn studying hacks to improve academic performance. 10:15 a.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Sept. 5 — Bonfire and movie night. The Latinx Student Alliance hosts a bonfire movie night, featuring a screening of Selena with s’mores and Jarritos. 8 p.m., Discipleship Center/EMU Hill.

Sept. 12 — Student internship symposium. Computer science and engineering students will share about their internship experiences over the past spring and summer. 10:15-11:15 a.m., Suter Science Center 001.

Sept. 12 — Opening reception for Fleeting, a photography exhibition from Macson McGuigan ’17, visual media manager for EMU marketing & communications. The exhibition will remain on display until Oct. 3. 4 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery (University Commons 179).

Sept. 17 — Convocation: How to College. Participants will learn essential insights in how to succeed in college. 10:15 a.m., University Commons Student Union.

Sept. 18 — BSA Movie Night. The Black Student Alliance and EMU Gospel Choir present a showing of the movie, “Let It Shine.” 8 p.m., MainStage Theater (University Commons 170). 

Sept. 19 — Suter Science Seminar: “Harnessing a One Health approach to investigate triatomine bugs, vectors of Chagas disease.” Jennifer K. Peterson, assistant professor of medical entomology at the University of Delaware, will share her research into the Chagas disease. 10:15 a.m., Suter Science Center 106.

Sept 22 — Tertulia. The EMU Language & Literature Department hosts a sing-along celebration with storytelling. Guests are encouraged to wear a jersey or traditional clothing that represents a Hispanic country to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. 6:30 p.m., Old Common Grounds (University Commons 177).

Sept. 23 — Sabbatical Spotlight: Mary S. Sprunger. “You Can Run But You Can’t Hide: The Omnipresence of (Mennonite) History.” Sprunger, professor of history at EMU, presents on her sabbatical year, which was themed around the 500th anniversary of Anabaptism and included popular lectures and publications, scholarly articles and conferences, and a unique EMU Alumni and Friends Anabaptist heritage tour on gender and class. 12:10-1 p.m., Northlawn West Dining Room.

Sept. 23 — “The 1910 ‘Legal Lynching’ of Pink Barbour in Harrisonburg, Virginia.” Gianluca DeFazio, associate professor of justice studies at James Madison University, and Mark Metzler Sawin, professor of history at EMU, present on how Pink Barbour, a local Black man, was “legal lynched” via the court system, which allowed the state to legitimize violence against Black people. 5 p.m., Strite Conference Room (Campus Center 105).

Sept. 26 — Wind & Jazz Ensemble Concert. Join the musical ensembles for the first concert of the year! 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

October

Fall Break for students is between Thursday, Oct. 16, and Sunday, Oct. 19. Classes resume on Oct. 20.

Oct. 1 — Peña Folklórica. The EMU Spanish Department invites guests to explore the music of the band Raymi, which will share traditional and modern Andean music and culture. 6:30 p.m., Martin Chapel, EMU Seminary Building.

Oct. 2 — David Berry Faculty Recital. Join Dr. David Berry, associate professor of music at EMU, for an evening of beloved piano tunes spanning the classical and jazz genres. 7 p.m., Martin Chapel, EMU Seminary Building.

Oct. 3 — Suter Science Seminar: “From Plant Genes to Retinal Neurons: A Genomic Journey in Research and Teaching.” Ray Enke, professor of biology at James Madison University, provides a behind-the-scenes look at his winding path through the world of epigenetics. 10:15 a.m., Suter Science Center 106.

Oct. 8 — Campus Worship: What is a Mennonite? In this 500th year of Anabaptism, some are pondering the question, “What is a Mennonite?” Join Troy Osborne, dean and associate professor of history and theological studies at Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo, Ontario, for updated perspectives on this theme drawn from his book, Radicals and Reformer: A Survey of Global Anabaptist History. 10:15 a.m., Martin Chapel, EMU Seminary Building.

Oct. 8 — Keim History Lecture. Troy Osborne, dean and associate professor of history at Conrad Grebel University, will highlight key themes that appear in his recent Mennonite history text. The lecture will begin at 5 p.m., following a reception held in the upper level of Suter Science Center. 4:30 p.m., Suter Science Center 106. 

Oct. 10-12 — Homecoming 2025. Visit for a full listing of events. Various locations and times.

Oct. 10 — A Capella Celebration. Enjoy an evening of music with a special collaboration of local a capella groups. 7:30 p.m., Lehman Auditorium. Tickets are $10. Register in advance .

Oct. 11 — EMU TenTalks. EMU’s three alumni award winners—visionary artist and futurist Fabrice Guerrier MA ’15 (conflict transformation), organizer Brittany Caine-Conley ’14, and leader Jess King ’96—will share their stories for 10 minutes each with a Q&A at the end. 1:30 p.m., Martin Chapel, EMU Seminary Building.

Oct. 12 — The EMU Chamber Singers performs at a Homecoming Worship Service. 10 a.m., Martin Chapel, EMU Seminary Building.

Oct. 21 — Queer History Month keynote presentation: Chad Sager (aka Jayda Knight, Rhinestone Productions) and Chad Walters (IN2GR8ION). Join the co-creators behind two of the Valley’s most vibrant expressions of queer creativity and performance as they explore themes of identity, artistry, and community, as well as how drag and design can be powerful tools for storytelling, self-expression, and connection. 7:30 p.m., University Commons Student Union. 

Oct. 27 — Augsburger Lecture by Rev. Dr. Almeda Wright, associate professor of religious education at Yale Divinity School and author of Teaching to Live: Black Religion, Activist-Educators, and Radical Social Change (Oxford University Press, 2024). 7 p.m., MainStage Theater (University Commons 170). 

Oct. 28 — Sabbatical Spotlight and opening reception for Salt & Fury, a collection of paintings by Cyndi Gusler, professor of visual and communication arts at EMU. 4 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery (University Commons 179).

Oct. 29 — Disability Awareness Month Convocation. Guest speaker Bailey Vincent, a deaf choreographer, dancer, director, and journalist whose art and advocacy invites us to reimagine access, storytelling, and belonging, serves as keynote speaker. 10:15 a.m., MainStage Theater (University Commons 170)

Oct. 30 — Student Recital I. The program includes a variety of pieces that music students have been working on in their private lessons. Bring a lunch and show your support. Halloween-themed reception to follow! 12:10-1 p.m., Lehman Auditorium. This event has been canceled.

November

Thanksgiving Break is between Wednesday, Nov. 26, and Sunday, Nov. 30. Classes resume on Monday, Dec. 1. 

Nov. 7 — Gala Concert. The EMU Music Department hosts its annual, ever-popular Gala Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Nov. 14 — Suter Science Seminar: “Life after Ice: Wildlife and Ecosystem Responses to Recent Glacier Loss in the High Tropical Andes.” Kelsey Reider, assistant professor of biology at James Madison University, will explore how tropical, high-elevation plant, microbe, and animal communities are responding to glacier loss, and the cascading effects of ice loss on downstream water resources. 10:15 a.m., Suter Science Center 106.

Nov. 23 — Joint Choir Concert. 8 p.m., University Commons Student Union.

December

Final exams are from Tuesday, Dec. 9, to Friday, Dec. 12. Residence halls close for winter break at noon on Saturday, Dec. 13, and reopen on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026. 

Dec. 3 — Christmas Stories & Song. Come celebrate and share the stories and songs of Christmas with the Faith and Spiritual Life team, student readers, and Benjamin Bergey leading singing. 10:15 a.m., Martin Chapel, EMU Seminary Building.

Dec. 4 — Student Recital II. Support EMU music students as they perform in the second student recital of the semester. 12:10-1 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Dec. 5 — Christmas Concert. Come celebrate the holidays with the Music Department! Featuring performances by the EMU Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, University Choir, and Chamber Singers, it’s sure to be an evening of joy and celebration. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Dec. 9 — Convocation: Intercultural Sharing. Students who spent the fall in the EMU Washington Semester program will share their experiences. 10:15 a.m., University Commons Student Union.

Dec. 10 — Convocation: Student Recognition Ceremony. The campus community gathers to celebrate students for their accomplishments and achievements. 10:15 a.m., Lehman Auditorium.

More information

Arts at EMU To learn more about music, theater, and visual and communication arts at EMU, visit www.emu.edu/arts.

Center for Interfaith Engagement The Center for Interfaith Engagement (CIE) at ��ݮ���� promotes collaboration among religious and nonreligious scholars and practitioners, provides education in our principles and practices, and creates a safe space for developing authentic relationships and mutual understanding both between and within communities. CIE partners with people and organizations for interfaith education and service to promote a more just and peaceful world.

 Each year, a variety of expert scientists visit EMU’s campus to share their insights. Refreshments provided.

University Chapel A community gathering place for worship and forum, chapel reflects an Anabaptist/Mennonite perspective alongside the gifts, traditions and cultures of the broader Christian faith. Faith, hope and love are nurtured in the way of Jesus. Faculty, staff, students, and community members are invited to gather every other Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. for campus worship in Martin Chapel. A student-led song, prayer and worship service is held most Sunday evenings at 7 p.m. in University Commons Room 177 (Old Common Grounds). Podcasts available.

EMU News often publishes event previews. Visit to view latest postings or to subscribe to the news digest to receive the Tuesday morning weekly update.

January

Jan. 16 — The Queer Student Alliance (QSA) and Office of Faith and Spiritual Life (FSL) host a screening of the award-winning documentary “1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture.” The “follows the story of tireless researchers who trace the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians to a grave mistranslation of the Bible in 1946.” A talkback session follows the screening. 7 p.m., University Commons Room 177 (Old Common Grounds). 

Jan. 16 — Music Faculty Artist Series concert with the Ben Guerrero Quartet. This exciting, grooving and fun concert of funk fusion music features EMU music program faculty member and percussionist Ben Guerrero with Thaddeus Jackson on guitar, Brian Incheck on bass and Alex Watson on piano. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Jan. 17 — Opening reception for artist , assistant professor of painting and drawing in the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Mary Washington. 4-5 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery.

Jan. 19-20 — EMU hosts its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration with a film screening of at 6 p.m. on Jan. 19 in the MainStage Theater, a unity march and Speak Out from 9:45 to 10:15 a.m. on Jan. 20 at the Black Lives Matter mural outside University Commons and a convocation on “Radical Truth-telling” from Jodie Geddes MA ’16 at 10:15 a.m. in Lehman Auditorium. A presentation on “Harrisonburg in the Jim Crow era” from EMU History Professor Mark Sawin will be at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 20 in University Commons 176. View a full schedule of events here:

Jan. 21 — Sabbatical Spotlight: Laura A.G. Yoder, PhD, RN – professor of nursing at EMU. “Q’eqchi’  Mothers’ Health Needs and Strengths in the Greater Chichen Region of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala.” Dr. Yoder will share about a community health needs and strengths assessment conducted in the Greater Chichen region of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, and ongoing work with the Community Cloud Forest Conservation to promote health and well-being for Q’eqchi’ women. 12:10 p.m., West Dining Room, Northlawn.

Jan. 21 — . Join the Shenandoah Valley Mennonite Historians for an evening of singing and storytelling representing lyrics and music from various local and regional Mennonite expressions through the years. 7 p.m., Park View Mennonite Church, 1600 College Ave, Harrisonburg.

Jan. 26 — Senior recital featuring Thaddeus Jackson. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Jan. 27 — Concerto/Aria Competition. The two student-musicians who win this competition will earn coveted spots to perform with the EMU Orchestra during its spring Concerto/Aria Orchestra Concert on Saturday, April 25. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Jan. 29 — Campus Worship: What is the Good Life? Dr. John D. Roth, project director of MennoMedia’s Anabaptism at 500 initiative, presents. 10:15 a.m., Martin Chapel.

Jan. 29 — 500th Anniversary Lecture: “They Went Out From Us, But They Were Not of Us.” Dr. John D. Roth’s talk focuses on the challenge of unity and schism across the 500 years of Anabaptist tradition. 7 p.m., Harrisonburg Mennonite Church, 1552 S. High St., Harrisonburg.

Jan. 30 — Anabaptism 1525/2025: Five Centuries, Five Lectures (1500s). As part of the , Dr. John D. Roth will present “Restoration or Renewal? Early Anabaptism and its Reformation Context” about Anabaptism in the 16th century. 7 p.m., Eastern Mennonite School Auditorium, 801 Parkwood Drive, Harrisonburg.

February

Feb. 6 — Anabaptism 1525/2025: (1600s). Dr. Mary Sprunger, professor of history at EMU, will present “Dutch Mennonites in the City and of the City” about Anabaptism in the 17th century. 7 p.m., Weavers Mennonite Church, 2501 Rawley Pike, Harrisonburg.

Feb. 10 — Screening of “El Cacao: The Challenge of Fair Trade.” This exposes the dark side of chocolate production in Latin America by examining the economics of fair trade from the point of view of indigenous farmers as they attempt to sustain their community through the growth, harvest, and trade of cacao beans in the global market. 6:30 p.m., Suter Science Center 106.

Feb. 13 — Anabaptism 1525/2025: (1700s). Elwood Yoder, historian and longtime Eastern Mennonite School teacher, will present “Farmers in Search of Land, Renewal, and Religious Freedom” about Anabaptism in the 18th century. 7 p.m., Weavers Mennonite Church, 2501 Rawley Pike, Harrisonburg.

Feb. 14 — Suter Science Seminar: Philip E. Zapanta, MD, FACS  – head and neck surgeon for Sovah Health – Danville, VA, and clinical associate professor of surgery at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. “From Study Abroad to Scrubbed In: Life Lessons for Pre-Professional Health Science Students (and me).” Zapanta, a 1996 graduate of EMU, shares the importance of cross-cultural experiences, the application of “see one, do one, teach one” in professional growth, and the importance of incorporating values of service, humility, and lifelong learning into health care careers. 10:15 a.m., Suter Science Center 106.

Feb. 15 — High School Music Competition. The second annual competition, open to students in grades 9-12 and to all instruments, voice types and styles of music, returns to EMU. 9 a.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Feb. 20 — Anabaptism 1525/2025: (1800s). Caleb Schrock-Hurst, a member of the staff of the Virginia Mennonite Conference, presents “Migration, Modernization, and Mission” about Anabaptism in the 19th century. 7 p.m., Weavers Mennonite Church, 2501 Rawley Pike, Harrisonburg.

Feb. 21 — Opening reception for exhibition by longtime EMU Visual and Communication Arts (VACA) Professor Jerry Holsopple, who is retiring after this year. His exhibition will serve as a culmination showcasing the work he has made over the past couple decades, along with some new work. 4-5 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery.

Feb. 21 — International Food Festival. The beloved annual event provides an opportunity for students, faculty and members of the surrounding community to share the great wonders of their respective cultures through food. 5:30 p.m., University Commons Hall of Nations.

Feb. 21 — Senior recital featuring vocalist Reah Clymer. 8 p.m., Martin Chapel.

Feb. 21-23 — Intercollegiate Peace Fellowship (ICPF) 2025 Conference. This student-led conference, which rotates among host institutions each year, brings together students and faculty from Mennonite, Brethren, and Quaker colleges across the U.S. and Canada to examine issues of peace and justice. The theme for the 2025 ICPF is “Building Solidarity: from Turtle Island to Palestine.” View a schedule of events here:

Feb. 27 — Anabaptism 1525/2025: (1900s). Dr. Andrew Suderman, associate professor in theology, peace and mission at EMU, presents “Anabaptism Today: Being Reminded of an Anabaptist Vision” about Anabaptism in the 20th century. 7 p.m., Martin Chapel. 

Feb. 27— Jazz Ensemble Concert. This performance is part of the Jazz, Justice, and Jordans event hosted by EMU’s Black Student Alliance. 7 p.m., University Commons Room 177 (Old Common Grounds).

Feb. 28 — Writers Read Author Series featuring Rachel Yoder, author of Nightbitch. Yoder’s debut novel, about an artist turned stay-at-home mom who becomes convinced she’s turning into a dog, was selected as an Indie Next Pick in August 2021 and was named a best book of the year by Esquire and Vulture. Yoder serves as assistant professor of screenwriting and cinema arts at the University of Iowa. A film adaptation of Nightbitch, starring Amy Adams, was released in December. 7:30 p.m., Martin Chapel.

March 

Spring Break for students is between Saturday, March 1, and Sunday, March 9. Classes resume on March 10.

March 1-6 — Chamber Singers spring break tour. The auditioned touring chamber choir performs at several locations around Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and Philadelphia before wrapping up its tour at The Music Room on Main in Orange, Virginia. View the tour schedule here:

March 13 — Music Student Spring Recital I. 12:10 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

March 13 — Keim Lecture Series. presents on her book Pure America: Eugenics and the Making of Modern Virginia. 4:30 p.m., Suter Science Center 106.

March 14 — Suter Science Seminar: Susan Gaylord, PhD – research associate professor and director of the Integrative Medicine Program at the University of North Carolina; and Hongtao Li, PhD – assistant professor of biology at EMU. “Why Integrative Health Care?” This seminar will introduce the concept of Integrative Medicine, and why it’s essential to health care today. 10:15 a.m., Suter Science Center 106.

March 14 — Love, Joy, and Peace: A Choral Celebration! 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

March 17 — Screening of “No Place to Grow.” This follows a group of Latinx farmers who find themselves representing a movement to save the last green space centered within a neighborhood facing gentrification in Santa Cruz, California. 6:30 p.m., Suter Science Center 106.

March 17 — Wind Ensemble Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

March 18 — Sabbatical Spotlight: Kristopher Schmidt, PhD – professor of biology at EMU. “Deciphering Defences: Using Applied Genomics to Better Understand Innate Immunity in Caenorhabditis elegans.” Schmidt presents a case study showcasing how we have used genomic approaches to unravel the role of the cytoskeletal regulator unc-53/Nav2 in immunity. 12:10 p.m., West Dining Room, Northlawn.

March 20 — Writers Read Author Series featuring M.C. (Christine) Benner Dixon ’04, author of The Height of Land. Benner Dixon is a teacher, poet, editor, and novelist living in Pittsburgh who spent about 15 years in academia as a classroom teacher and scholar before launching her freelance editing and writing business. Her poetry and fiction has been described as tending toward “contemplative melancholy, with occasional detours into the strange and creepy.” Her debut novel The Height of Land “follows the quest of a young man in the distant future, torn between spiritual longing and commitment to his community’s survival in a harsh landscape (Goodreads)” and is scheduled to release in March 2025. 7:30 p.m., Martin Chapel. 

March 21 — President’s Town Hall. 10:05 a.m., Martin Chapel.

March 28-April 5 — EMU Theatre presents “On the Breath of God: The Life of Maria Skobtsova.” This world-premiere production created by EMU professors Jerry Holsopple and Justin Poole showcases the remarkable life of the Russian poet, saint and martyr Maria Skobtsova. This edgy, defiant, offbeat, twice-divorced, chain-smoking nun, who called Tolstoy and other intellectual giants her friends, broke many stereotypes. This is a musical featuring a chorus of female mystics who sing Celtic tunes to the accompaniment of a live band. 7 p.m. on March 28-29 and April 3-5, 2 p.m. on March 30. MainStage Theater.

April

April 2 — LovEMU Giving Day 2025. Show how much you love EMU with your generous support during the ninth annual . All day.

April 4 — Senior Show 1. Come see the final projects of the first group of senior VaCA students. 4-5 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery.

April 5 — Sophomore recital featuring Rafael de Tablan. 3 p.m., Martin Chapel.

April 7 (rescheduled from Feb. 18) — Sabbatical Spotlight: Daniel Showalter, PhD – associate professor of mathematics at EMU. “Student Mental Health: What’s Going On, and Why Should We Care?” The professor will share what led him to focus on student mental health as well as his journey to better understand the network in place to support students in their well-being. 10:15 a.m., Suter Science Center Room 106.

April 11 — Wind Ensemble & University Choir Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

April 12 — University Choir Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

April 16-17 — Academic and Creative Excellence (ACE) Festival 2025. The campus-wide conference, which provides space to showcase academic and artistic achievements and engage in interdisciplinary conversation and learning, returns. David Williams, author of the 2024-25 EMU Common Read When the English Fall, serves as keynote speaker at 10:15 a.m. on April 16 in Lehman Auditorium. View a full schedule of ACE Festival events here:

April 17 — Senior Show 2 (during ACE Festival). Come see the final art projects of the second group of senior VaCA students. 4-5 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery.

April 17 — Music Student Spring Recital II. 12:10 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

April 23 — Jazz Ensemble Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

April 25 — Concerto/Aria Concert. 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

April 26-27 — Spring Concerts featuring all performing choirs of the (SVCC). 7 p.m., April 26; 4 p.m., April 27. Lehman Auditorium.

May

The 107th University Commencement is from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday, May 4, 2025. Commencement for the EMU Lancaster campus is Friday, May 9, 2025.

May 14-31 — Chamber Singers international tour. The choir sings at venues across Europe, including in the Netherlands, Germany and Switzerland, before concluding their tour with performances celebrating the 500-year anniversary of the birth of Anabaptism at Mennonite World Conference. View the tour schedule here:

More information

Arts at EMU To learn more about music, theater, and visual and communication arts at EMU, visit www.emu.edu/arts.

Center for Interfaith Engagement The Center for Interfaith Engagement (CIE) at ��ݮ���� promotes collaboration among religious and nonreligious scholars and practitioners, provides education in our principles and practices, and creates a safe space for developing authentic relationships and mutual understanding both between and within communities. CIE partners with people and organizations for interfaith education and service to promote a more just and peaceful world.

 Each year, a variety of expert scientists visit EMU’s campus to share their insights. Refreshments provided.

University Chapel A community gathering place for worship and forum, chapel reflects an Anabaptist/Mennonite perspective alongside the gifts, traditions and cultures of the broader Christian faith. Faith, hope and love are nurtured in the way of Jesus. Faculty, staff, students, and community members are invited to gather every other Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. for campus worship in Martin Chapel. A student-led song, prayer and worship service is held most Sunday evenings at 7 p.m. in University Commons Room 177 (Old Common Grounds). Podcasts available.

Writers Read and Spanish Language Film Series events sponsored by the language and literature department. Writers Read features authors who read from and comment on their work; refreshments are provided. Spanish language films will have English subtitles; introductions and student-led discussions are in English.

“This year’s festivities will feature a ‘lion’s share’ of new and exciting events, including the Royal City Celebration, which invites all class reunions, affinity groups, department and club gatherings to meet at Thomas Plaza and the Front Lawn for food, fellowship and fun!” said Deanna Reed, Harrisonburg mayor and EMU director of alumni engagement & community connections. “In addition to the gathering, which promises to be the largest at Homecoming, all are invited to follow the ‘yellow brick road’ to campus for musical theater showings, athletic events, and the return of the ever-popular TenTalks presentations. This year there’s no place like HOMEcoming!”

The homecoming website is your complete source for events, updates, and registration.

EMU’s alumni award winners are:
Dr. Lee Roy Berry Jr. ’66; Kendra Conrad Bailey ’03, MA ’05; and Seth Crissman ’09. MDiv ’15.

EMU Athletics will recognize four Hall of Honor awardees:
longtime employee and coach Roland Landes; standout jumper and sprinter Michael Allen ’13; volleyball, basketball and softball player Gina Campbell Troyer ’93; and basketball star Bianca Ygarza ’14.

Look for the ⓕ Facebook icon that denotes a livestreamed event. Go to the to view these events; recordings will also be available after the event. You do not need a Facebook account to view the livestream.

Athletics events will be streamed through the website.

Here are a few highlights of the weekend. See the full schedule for more details.

Friday

– Jubilee Alumni, those who have graduated 50 years ago or more, will gather for a program and luncheon that includes the induction of the class of 1974. * ⓕ

– Art Gallery Opening, from 4-5 p.m. in the Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery, features artworks from EMU alumni artists Rebecca Souder Gish ’09, Rhoda Miller ’03, and Jon Styer ’07. 

– Musical Theater Production of “Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.” EMU students and community members play multiple roles in this epic rock musical version of Rick Riordan’s beloved young-adult novels about an underachieving kid who discovers he is a demigod. Tickets for the show, held in the Studio Theater at 7 p.m., are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, $10 for children 18 and younger, and $6 for college students. 

Saturday

– Recognizing Hall of Honor and alumni award winners, the Opening Celebration Breakfast features a welcome by President Susan Schultz Huxman.

– A Hall of Honor Ceremony at the MainStage Theater from 10-11 a.m. will celebrate this year’s inductees.

– New to this year’s lineup of events, the Royal City Celebration invites all class reunions, affinity groups, department and club gatherings to follow the yellow brick road for food, fellowship, and fun! Meal tickets to the gathering, held from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Thomas Plaza and the Front Lawn, are $20 for adults and $9 for children ages 5 to 11. *

– See Royals athletics in action on the brand new Turf Field with Field Hockey vs. Sweet Briar at noon, Women’s Soccer vs. Guilford at 3 p.m., and Men’s Soccer vs. Lynchburg at 6 p.m. The Women’s Volleyball team takes on Lynchburg in Yoder Arena at 2 p.m.

– Prepare to be impacted, influenced and inspired at the annual EMU TenTalks. Modeled on TED Talks presentations, this event in Suter Science Center 106 from 2-3 p.m. features alumna and novelist Ashley Mellinger ’24; Adesola Johnson, senior biology major; and Dr. Mark Metzler Sawin, EMU professor of history, speaking for 10 minutes each with a Q&A at the end.��* ⓕ

– Turn out for the new track & field complex dedication at 3:30 p.m.

– “Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.” Another chance to catch this exhilarating spectacle starting at 7 p.m. in the Studio Theater.

Sunday

– Worship with EMU Chamber Singers at 9:30 a.m. at Park View Mennonite Church.

– “Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.” A third and final showing of the epic rock musical, capping Homecoming and Family Weekend 2024, starts at 7 p.m.

*Registration required

EMU News often publishes event previews. Visit  to view latest postings or to subscribe to the news digest to receive the Tuesday morning weekly update.

August

Classes for students begin on Tuesday, Aug. 27.

Aug. 28 — Opening Convocation and Worship. Join President Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman as we kick off another EMU year with the theme of “Running the Good Race.” 10:15-11:05 a.m., Lehman Auditorium. This event will be livestreamed on  page.  

September

Sept. 4 — Convocation: Unlocking the Brain. is a professor and bestselling author with a passion for helping others learn and study more effectively. This convocation unlocks the learning brain and decodes the research about how learning works into practices that enhance and accelerate our own learning journey. 10:15-11:05 a.m., Lehman Auditorium. This event will be livestreamed on  page.  

Sept. 6 — Suter Science Seminar: Morgan Heim. “Wild Heart: Bringing Empathy and Grace to Environmental Storytelling.” Heim is a wildlife photojournalist and filmmaker focusing on coexistence and how human-influenced environmental change impacts wildlife. She holds degrees in zoology and environmental journalism, which she draws upon in her search to find the beauty, humor and perseverance in wildlife stories. 10:15-11:15 a.m., Suter Science Center 106.

Sept. 6 — The Visual And Communication Arts (VACA) department hosts the first gallery opening of the year featuring widely acclaimed wildlife photographer Morgan Heim. 4-5 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery. On display through Oct. 4.

Sept. 6-8 — Join the EMU Chamber Singers for a sing-through of the entire Voices Together hymnal. The three-day is a fundraiser for the choir, which will tour the Netherlands, Germany, and Switzerland in May 2025, wrapping up their tour at the 500-year Celebration of Anabaptism, where they have been selected as the performing choir from North America. 7-11 p.m., Friday, Sept. 6; 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 7; noon until finished, Sunday, Sept. 8; Martin Chapel. 

Sept. 16 — Student Research Symposium. Biology and chemistry students have been busy this summer! Several students will share about their scholarly summer experiences, including presentations of their research. 4:15-6 p.m., Suter Science Center 106.

Sept. 17 — Sabbatical Spotlight: Paul J. Yoder. “Going to Thailand and the Library!” Paul will share highlights of a two-week Virginia Mennonite Missions experience in Thailand. He will also report on the scholarly writing that occupied the bulk of the semester. 12:10-1 p.m., Northlawn West Dining Room.

Sept. 18 — Convocation: Finding Common Ground in Common Grounds. A presidential election is on the horizon and times feel tense and divisive. Whether you are Republican, or Democrat, or something else entirely, gather for a facilitated process where we can each share and listen across the political divide. 10:15-11:05 a.m., Common Grounds Coffeehouse.

Sept. 23 — Verses & Vibes with Jessica Care Moore. A powerful evening of poetry with authors and recording artists Jessica Care Moore and Brad Walrond. 7 p.m., Student Union.

Sept. 26 — Royals Go Downtown. Rep your Royal pride while enjoying samples from Downtown Harrisonburg restaurants and participating in a parade. 5-8 p.m., Downtown Harrisonburg.

Sept. 27 — Wind & Jazz Ensemble Concert. 7-9 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

October

Fall Break for students is between Wednesday, Oct. 16, and Sunday, Oct. 20. Classes resume on Oct. 21.

Oct. 2 — Convocation: Nonviolence Matters. Sarah Nahar, a nonviolent action trainer and interspiritual theologian, will talk about why nonviolence matters, especially in relation to EMU’s anabaptism roots, as she also explores the theory behind the practice. 10:15-11:05 a.m., Lehman Auditorium. This event will be livestreamed on  page.  

Oct. 11 — Art Gallery Opening, featuring alumni artists Rebecca Souder Gish ’09, Rhoda Miller ’03, and Jon Styer ’07. 4-5 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery.

Oct. 11-13 — Homecoming and Family Weekend 2024. Visit for a full listing of events. 

Oct. 11-27 — EMU Theatre’s production of “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.” A small cast of EMU students and community members play multiple roles in this epic rock musical version of Rick Riordan’s beloved young-adult novels about an under-achieving kid who discovers that he’s a demigod. 7 p.m., Oct. 11-12, Oct. 25-26; 2 p.m., Oct. 13, Oct. 26-27. All shows in Studio Theater.

Oct. 13 — The EMU Chamber Singers performs for Homecoming and Family Weekend 2024. 9:30 a.m., Park View Mennonite Church.

Oct. 14 — Convocation: Indigenous Peoples’ Day. 10:15-11:05 a.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Oct. 15 — Third annual Queer History Month keynote, featuring Annabeth Roeschley, executive director for Brethren Mennonite Council for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Interests. 7:30 p.m., Common Grounds.

Oct. 29 — Sabbatical Spotlight: Mark Sawin. “Other Voices, Other Rooms: Teaching America in Lithuania and Croatia.” EMU History Professor Dr. Mark Metzler Sawin will present the lessons learned during a year of teaching about and being a representative of the U.S. in Lithuania and Croatia. It will focus on difference in ideas and understandings about race, ethnicity, belonging, power, and agency in these racially homogeneous but ethnically fraught areas, through stories of his interactions with many remarkable students and colleagues. 12:10-1 p.m., Northlawn West Dining Room.

Oct. 30 — Convocation: Dia de los Muertos Celebration. Learn about and celebrate this Mexican holiday as we also remember family and friends who have passed. 10:15-11:05 a.m., Lehman Auditorium. This event will be livestreamed on  page.  

November

Thanksgiving Break is between Wednesday, Nov. 27, and Sunday, Dec. 1.

Nov. 1 — Suter Science Seminar: Kathryn Jacobsen. “Health Transitions Epidemiology and the Hepatitis A Paradox.” Jacobsen, professor in the Department of Health Studies at the University of Richmond, leads a talk explaining some of the methods that are used to study health transitions and will discuss the reasons why safe drinking water does not always lead immediately to reduced outbreaks of waterborne infectious diseases and improved community health. 10:15-11:15 a.m., Suter Science Center 106.

Nov. 7 —&�Բ�����;Augsburger Lecture Series: Felipe Hinojosa. Hinojosa is the John and Nancy Jackson Endowed Chair in Latin America and professor of history at Baylor University. His research focuses on the Latinx civil rights movement and religious politics in 20th century America. 7 p.m., Martin Chapel.

Nov. 8 — EMU Music Gala Concert: Arise. The ��ݮ���� Gala Concert has become one of the most exciting and unique annual concert events in the Valley. This year’s gala, themed Arise, celebrates the beauty of resilience in overcoming hardship and the joy and peace found in community. The concert will feature electrifying tap dance from guest artist Izaiah Montaque Harris, exciting jazz, beautiful singing, and the grand finale from one of the most powerful and moving musical masterworks of all time, Gustav Mahler’s “Resurrection” Symphony for chorus and orchestra. 7-9 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Nov. 13 — Convocation: Subtract. Hear from Leidy Klotz, author of Subtract, as he arms us with the science of less and empowers us to revolutionize our day-to-day lives and shift how we move through the world. 10:15-11:05 a.m., Lehman Auditorium. This event will be livestreamed on  page.  

Nov. 15 — Opening reception and live concert, featuring EMU music alum Joseph Harder and an exhibition of his photography. 4-5 p.m., Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery. Exhibition runs through Dec. 13. 

Nov. 17 — Fall Concert (Intermezzo & Concert Choirs with Shenandoah Valley Youth Symphony). 4 p.m., Lehman Auditorium. By donation.

Nov. 19 — Sabbatical Spotlight: Doug Graber Neufeld. “Exploring Our World with Geographic Information Systems: Water, Climate, and Salamanders.” Graber Neufeld is professor of biology at EMU and helps to direct the environmental science major. His research focuses on the environmental impacts of toxins and pollution on humans and the planet. 12:10-1 p.m., Northlawn West Dining Room.

Nov. 20 — EMU Joint Choir Concert. Join us for a fun concert, featuring three choirs of EMU: the University Choir, Chamber Singers, and Gospel Choir. Set in the more informal Student Union, grab a snack or drink at Common Grounds while you enjoy the choral offerings EMU has in store! 8 p.m., Student Union.

December

Residence halls close for winter break at noon on Saturday, Dec. 14, and reopen on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. 

Dec. 2 — Sixth annual Lighting of the Green. Join the EMU community as Christmas carols are sung, delicious treats are enjoyed, and the lights adorning the Christmas tree at Thomas Plaza are switched on. 4:45 p.m., Front Lawn.

Dec. 6 — Let it Snow! – An EMU Christmas Concert. Join us for EMU Music’s second-ever Christmas concert: Let it Snow! Featuring EMU’s music ensembles and faculty, this special concert presents fun and beautiful holiday classics with a few surprises and special twists along the way. This is sure to be an enjoyable event for all ages. 7-9 p.m., Lehman Auditorium.

Dec. 10 — Convocation: Student Recognition Ceremony. Celebrate our amazing students and all the incredible ways they are leading with compassion and care. 10:10-10:50 a.m., Lehman Auditorium. This event will be livestreamed on  page.  

Dec. 14-15 — Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir Christmas Concerts (all performing choirs). 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14; 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 15, Lehman Auditorium. 

More information

Arts at EMU To learn more about music, theater, and visual and communication arts at EMU, visit www.emu.edu/arts.

Center for Interfaith Engagement The Center for Interfaith Engagement (CIE) at ��ݮ���� promotes collaboration among religious and nonreligious scholars and practitioners, provides education in our principles and practices, and creates a safe space for developing authentic relationships and mutual understanding both between and within communities. CIE partners with people and organizations for interfaith education and service to promote a more just and peaceful world.

 Each year, a variety of expert scientists visit EMU’s campus to share their insights. Refreshments provided.

University Chapel A community gathering place for worship and forum, chapel reflects an Anabaptist/Mennonite perspective alongside the gifts, traditions and cultures of the broader Christian faith. Faith, hope and love are nurtured in the way of Jesus. Faculty, staff, students, and community members are invited to gather every other Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. for campus worship in Martin Chapel. A student-led song, prayer and worship service is held most Sunday evenings from 8-9 p.m. in University Commons Room 177 (Old Common Grounds). Podcasts available.

Writers Reads and Spanish Language Film Series events sponsored by the language and literature department. Writers Read features authors who read from and comment on their work; refreshments are provided. Spanish language films will have English subtitles; introductions and student-led discussions are in English.

��ݮ���� will host several holiday events in December, including the Lighting of the Green Monday, Dec. 5, at 4:30 p.m. on Thomas Plaza.

This event gathers the campus community together for a blessing, words from President Susan Schultz Huxman, Christmas carols, and a ceremonial lighting of thousands of strands of twinkling lights decorating the buildings on the quad and a large Christmas tree on the front lawn. Students, faculty, staff, retirees and family members are specially invited for this annual and beloved tradition.

EMU Music, Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir and the Shenandoah Valley Bach Festival also plan several concerts that are free and open to the public.

Dec. 1: Wind Ensemble Concert, 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium. The program includes traditional works for band, transcriptions of choral music, and arrangements of holiday favorites. This concert will feature saxophone soloist Anthony Cincotta, who will perform Adam Silverman’s “Alternating Current.”

Dec. 2: Chamber Singers and University Choir Concert, 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium. Featuring local composers, underrepresented composers, and songs promoting peace and justice.

Dec. 3, 7 p.m. and Dec. 4, 4 p.m.: Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir Christmas Concert, Lehman Auditorium. For tickets, visit .

Dec. 10: Joint Ensemble Holiday Concert, 7 p.m. Lehman Auditorium. Featuring the EMU Orchestra directed by Professor Benjamin Bergey and the Jazz Combo and Jazz Ensemble, directed by Professor Kyle Remnant. Featuring music by underrepresented composers and holiday music.

Dec. 16: A Bach Festival Christmas, 7 p.m. Martin Chapel. A fun evening featuring holiday favorites and more performed by David Berry, artistic director of the , and friends.

Eastern Mennonite Seminary’s 2023 is themed “Creating Communities of Belonging: Appreciating EveryBODY.” 

The emphasis on the word body is deliberate, says Veva Mumaw, SLT director. “1 Corinthians 12 reminds us that collectively we are all part of the body of Christ with each individual serving as one part of the larger body. Each body part is mutually dependent and vital to the health of the whole. Our communities of faith require a variety of gifts to thrive. When everyBody is actively included and firmly connected, the whole church benefits and grows stronger.”

Questions of theology, nurturing of gifts, and other core topics related to accessibility and inclusion will bring pastoral and lay leaders to the Jan. 9-11 event. The hybrid format offers in-person and online options.��

The conference is a timely resource in helping Mennonite congregations and their leaders live into the passed by the Mennonite Church USA delegate body in May 2022, said The Rev. Dr. Sarah Bixler, associate dean of the seminary. 

Participants will hear keynotes from pastors Amy Julia Becker and The Rev. Dr. J.J. Flag. Small workshop settings will provide opportunities to explore related topics. The schedule also includes worship, networking, and a concert with world-renowned musician .

“Our hope is that attendees will become more aware of the presence of people with disabilities in every community, and will be equipped to lead conversations about accessibility and inclusion and work for justice so that faith communities can fully incorporate persons of all abilities in the church’s work,” Bixler said.

Framing the theme are two keynote speakers. Becker holds a bi-vocational license with the Evangelical Covenant Church. She is an award-winning writer and speaker on personal, spiritual, and social healing and the author of four books, including To Be Made Well: An Invitation to Wholeness, Healing, and Hope. She hosts the Love Is Stronger Than Fear podcast. She is a graduate of Princeton University and Princeton Theological Seminary. Her addresses are titled “Perfectly Human: Understanding God’s Logic of Disability” and “Becoming Communities of Belonging.”

Flagg was recently called as the associate minister of pastoral care and justice at Myers Park Baptist Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. He holds an Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Drew University Theological School. He will speak about his personal journey with disability and its connection to theology, followed by an address on developing a more inclusive view of disability inclusion in the church beyond accessibility. 

MaryBeth Heatwole Moore MDiv ‘21 is a member of the planning committee who has two Deaf sons and has worked as the school nurse at the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind in Staunton since 2002. She is ordained by Virginia Mennonite Conference and served from 2006-22 in Deaf ministry as a youth minister, church planter, and then pastor of Signs of Life Fellowship.  

 “By excluding people with disabilities, we are excluding gifts,” she said in a recent Anabaptist World article about MCUSA’s new resolution. “If our churches are not accessible to everyone, the whole community is missing out.”

“Daniel’s superb musicianship, communicative and expressive presence at the podium, and his wonderful way with people made me know he is the right person to lead our orchestra this season,” said SVBF Artistic Director David Berry, who begins his first season in the new role after taking over from festival co-founder Ken Nafziger.

The first festival concert will be conductor-less and orchestra-led this year. Myssyk will lead Festival Concerts II and III.

Benjamin Bergey, director of orchestra and choirs at ��ݮ����, will serve as assistant conductor. Bergey has participated in the festival for many years in a variety of roles, and is a protégé of Nafziger. As assistant, Bergey will lead the Leipzig service and serve as cover conductor this summer.

More About Daniel Myssyk

Assistant conductor of the Richmond Symphony, Canadian-American conductor Daniel Myssyk was music director of the Montreal-based Orchestre de chambre Appassionata from 2000 to 2016.

In recent years, he has made critically acclaimed appearances with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, and the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra, among others. In 2015, Myssyk made his debut in Guanajuato (Mexico) where he has been returning almost every season since. In 2019, return engagements have brought him back to Canada to conduct the Orchestre symphonique de Trois-Rivières and the Orchestre de la Francophonie.

Myssyk conducts repertoire from the classical, romantic, modern and contemporary periods with great attention to stylistic details. He maintains a continuous engagement with opera in a variety of styles ranging from Mozart to Menotti. He has contributed to the creation of many contemporary North-American works, including the world-premiere of Anthony Brandt’s opera, “The Birth of Something” with Da Camera in Houston.

Myssyk’s recordings have received widespread critical acclaim. His CDs “Czech Serenades” with works by Suk and Dvořák, and “Idyla” (on Fidelio label) were nominated for best recording of the year at the ADISQ awards, Quebec’s equivalent of the Grammys and at the Prix Opus from the Conseil québécois de la musique. A CD featuring American trumpet player and internationally renowned Rex Richardson playing Dana Wilson’s “Concerto for Trumpet and Strings” was released on Summit Records, earning rave reviews from the International Trumpet Guild Journal. His most recent CD, on the Atma label, features works by Quebec composer François Dompierre and has earned excellent reviews from Radio-Canada and Magazine Son et image.

Myssyk has been Virginia Commonwealth University’s Director of Orchestral Activities since 2007. Under his leadership, three VCU Opera productions of “The Gondoliers” (2015), “The Old Maid and the Thief” (2012), and “Hansel & Gretel” (2011) won top prizes at the National Opera Association competition.

His involvement toward the youth reflects a well-honed passion for music education. In addition to his work at VCU, he is a regular collaborator with Senior Regional Orchestras throughout Virginia, among others. He was appointed conductor of the Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra in 2018.

In the early 2000s, Myssyk was a conducting fellow at the Aspen Music Festival and School where he spent two summers under the tutelage of David Zinman. A student of Larry Rachleff, he received his Masters Degree in Conducting from the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University in 2006.

More about Benjamin Bergey

Benjamin Bergey is an energetic and passionate musician, whose conducting has been described as “captivating” and “communicative.” He is a conductor, professor, and church musician. As assistant professor, he conducts the Orchestra, Chamber Singers, and University Choir, as well as teaches music theory and conducting. He also advises the new music and peacebuilding major.

He is an active musician who currently conducts the Rapidan Orchestra in Orange, Virginia. He completed his doctorate and masters at James Madison University in Orchestral Conducting, where he conducted the Symphony and Chamber Orchestras, as well as the Opera Orchestra, conducting performances of Rossini’s Barber of Seville and Puccini’s La Boheme.

Additionally, Bergey is a prominent music leader in the Mennonite Church, having recently served as director of music at Harrisonburg Mennonite Church for six years, and notably as music editor for Voices Together, the hymnal for Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Church Canada, as well as compiler and editor for the hymnal’s Accompaniment Edition. He regularly leads worship and resourcing events at assemblies, workshops, and conferences, and is the music planner for the 2022 Mennonite World Conference Assembly music and songbook. His doctoral research focused on how ensemble music is a tool in peacebuilding by bringing diverse people together for building empathy and dialogue, using two groups in Israel and Palestine as examples.

History has shown us unbridled fear left unchecked. When fear is the guiding force for an individual or society, beliefs of right and wrong are tainted. The result is chaos, the distortion of truth, and the destruction of life’s innate goodness.

Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “The Crucible” deftly illustrates the parallel of the Salem witch trials in 1693 Massachusetts and the 1950s McCarthy hearings to root out communism during what is referred to as “The Red Scare.” Miller was accused of supporting communism and expected to name others. 

��ݮ���� Theater reimagines “The Crucible” as an allegory for today’s society in a soul-searching production that premieres in the Studio Theater this fall. Professor Justin Poole, theater program director, hopes the performance sparks conversations so “we can learn from our mistakes,” he said.

This production will likely unsettle, offend, and leave you asking, ‘What now?’ That’s the goal. Some of the best art challenges us, and at EMU Theater we strive to make art that matters.”

Justin Poole, director, ‘The Crucible’

Ticket Information

“The Crucible” runs Oct. 28-Nov. 5, in the Studio/Blackbox Theater, University Commons. Performances are 7 p.m. Oct. 28, 29, Nov. 3, 4, and 5, and 2 p.m. Oct. 30.

Reserved seating only. Adults,$20; Senior (65+), non-EMU students or child (0-18), $18; EMU students, $6. Discounts are available for groups of ten or more. Click on the link above or call 540-432-4582 between 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. weekdays. Online tickets subject to a $2/ticket processing fee. Online tickets are available until 2 hours prior to each performance. Tickets at the door are an additional $2/ticket with the exception of EMU students. Show length is three hours. Intermission.

‘Into the action’

Seated on all four sides of the stage, the audience will be “immersed in this environmentally-staged version,” Poole said, “to experience the parallels between the Salem witch trials, the Red Scare, and today’s society.”

“The seating, surround-sound techniques and atmospheric audio brings each audience member into the action,” said assistant director Hannah Landis, who also portrays Reverend Hale. “Everyone gets to be right there with our characters, in our story.”

For actor Joseph Seitz, the key word for the show is intimacy. Seitz, a 2022 graduate, portrays John Proctor. “It’s almost a median between stage and film. The music provided by Perry Blosser ‘18 and Joseph Harder ’20, alongside the intimacy of the space creates an almost film-like detail, but with live theater. It’s quite the treat.”

The intimacy created by the studio theater also gives the actors unique perspective, said Anna Hoover, a senior carrying a theater minor in addition to her chemistry major. Hoover will portray Elizabeth Proctor, who along with her husband, John, is accused of witchcraft. “Every subtle expression from the actors can be seen by the audience only an arm’s length away. I think this helps my character greatly. Elizabeth is a subtle character but her face shows her thoughts rather than her words.”

Character study divulges the personal and political

Poole’s direction is guiding the ensemble to delve deeply into their characterizations. Seitz’s character-building comes from “introspection, direction and discussion,“ he said. “As much personal reflection as I do, sometimes I need to take myself out of my own ideas of what the character should be like, and give Justin’s direction a shot, or earnestly listen to the interpretations of others. It’s been a thought-provoking process.” 

For Landis, portraying Hale has given her a deeper understanding of her own beliefs and judgements. She is discovering her character’s motivations through her own self inquiry. “What beliefs could I hold strongly that are actually inaccurate and misguided? How often do I cling to one single story, when a true investigation could reveal my ignorance and influence my thought processes for the better?” she said, “And if I recognize this about myself yet choose to prioritize my current beliefs over expanding my worldview, as some characters in the show do, what does that say about the beliefs I’m trying to cling to in the first place?”

Each character has both a personal and a political side, said Hoover. Her character, Elizabeth, is a political representation of the people McCarthy accused of being communists. “But personally, she is a woman who has been betrayed by her husband, sees the fraud for what it is but can do little about it.”

Much of the story’s conflict is driven by the fear of the townspeople and the judges, which keeps them from seeing the full picture, Hoover said, “and shows them spirits where there are none. I think this is something to keep in mind when looking at the turmoil of today.”

Life lessons

Landis, Hoover and Seitz reflected on the impact of Miller’s play. The wisdom they’ve gained as actors is inspiring and holds true for today’s world.

“The characters we present in Salem are forcefully uprooted from their comfortable beliefs, and I challenge us to do the same,” said Landis.

“Instead of focusing on the hate being spewed,” Hoover said, “ask yourself what fear is motivating that hate and how can I help alleviate that fear.”

Seitz says he’s more aware than ever of “the disastrous consequences of viewing people through a strictly black or white lens. Perhaps rather than labeling people internally as good or bad, we can hold both the triumphs and follies of people at the same time.”

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CAST

John Proctor: Joseph Seitz

Elizabeth Proctor: Anna Hoover

Abigail Williams: Greta Shrag

Reverend Hale: Hannah Landis

Deputy Governor Danforth: MaKayla Baker Paxton

Mary Warren: Eileen Hernon

Ann Putnam/Sarah Good/Susanna Walcott: Ani Beitzel

Reverend Samuel Parris: Andrew Stoltzfus

Giles Corey: Shannon Dove

Thomas Putnam/Francis Nurse: Bradley Kirkdorffer

Tituba/Judge Hawthorne: Liz Marin

Mercy Lewis: Alexis Lewis

Betty Parris: Molly Piwonka

Rebecca Nurse: Rachel Herrick

Ezekiel Cheever: Josiah Esch

John Willard: Nicholas Murch

Crew

Director: Justin Poole

Assistant Director: Hannah Landis

Collaborative Musicians: Perry Blosser and Joseph Harder

Choreographer: Ellie de Waal

Scene Designer: Shannon Dove

Lighting Designer: Robert Weaver

Stage Manager: Emma Nord

Assistant Stage Managers: Sarah Peak, Jordyn Thompson, Jordyn Dixon

Technical Director: Shannon Dove

Costume Designer and Shop Manager: Rachel Herrick

Construction and Technical Crew: Anna Hoover, Adam Hoover, Makayla Pettus, Jordyn Thompson, Alexis Lewis

Public Relations Coordinator: Alexis Lewis

Cast Photographs: Cassidy Walker

House Manager: Makayla Pettus

Box Office Manager: Sarah Regan

Theater Administrative Assistant: Daniel De Tablan

Production Assistants: Hailey Holcomb and Ezrionna Prioleau

When Dale Schrag reached his $1 million fundraising goal for an endowment for the Mennonite Library and Archives (MLA) at Bethel College, he was ready to celebrate with donors and friends.

Just one problem – the goal completion came in the spring of 2020, when the pandemic was almost literally shutting the world down.

After 2½ years, Schrag says, he wondered if he should just give up the idea of an event. But a friend with fundraising experience told him, “You have to do something – you can’t meet a major fundraising goal like that without a celebration.”

So Schrag, a retired librarian and church relations director and lifelong historian, and Mary Sprunger, professor of history at ��ݮ����, are inviting the Mennonite academic world to a party in honor of Desiderius Erasmus, “the intellectual rockstar of 16th-century Europe,” as Sprunger calls him. 

The symposium, titled “Old Books Made New: The Surprising Wisdom of Erasmus for Today,” will be held simultaneously on the Bethel, Conrad Grebel University College, EMU and Goshen College campuses Nov. 4-5, linked via livestream and Zoom.

Erasmus Symposium Schedule @ EMU

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At EMU, the symposium will be held in Room 303 of the Sadie Hartzler Library. All times are EDT.

No registration is required and all are welcome.

Friday, Nov. 4:

• 7:30-9 p.m. “Erasmus for our Age,” Keynote address by Dr. Greta Kroeker

Saturday, Nov. 5: 

• 9:30-10 a.m. Rare book show and tell.
• 10 a.m.-12:15 p.m.Student presentations on specific Erasmus library holdings.
• 1:15-2:15 p.m. Roundtable 1: The Contemporary Relevance of Erasmus
• 2:15-3 p.m. Roundtable 2: The Future of Rare Book Libraries in a Digital Age 

The symposium is sponsored by the Marpeck Deans’ Fund, set up by the late Robert and Gerald Kreider to foster inter-Mennonite academic collaboration. There are nine college and seminary members in the United States and Canada.

Other fiscal sponsors are Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, Ind., Bethel, EMU and Goshen College, which all have Erasmian texts in their libraries, along with Conrad Grebel in Waterloo, Ontario, and a private Kansas foundation, the BISON Foundation. Bluffton (Ohio) University and Canadian Mennonite University, Winnipeg, will be participating in parts of the symposium.

Schrag will host a private dinner for donors to the MLA endowment in conjunction with the symposium.

Schrag is well known as an enthusiastic Erasmus scholar. Erasmus is particularly interesting to Reformation and Mennonite scholars because of his influence on Martin Luther and early Anabaptist leaders.

 At a program Schrag did about Erasmus in 2017, he met John Byler from Hesston, Kan.

 “He was very interested in Erasmus,” Schrag recalls, “which was unusual for a youngish guy. He had done a master’s thesis [on Erasmus] at Northwestern.”

Byler told Schrag in an e-mail: “We need to do a symposium on Erasmus, because our world needs Erasmus like never before.”

 So the seed of an “Erasmus symposium” as a way of honoring the MLA and other libraries had been planted. With the idea of making it intercollegiate, Schrag began working with Sprunger on the planning.

As Schrag was contemplating what to build a symposium around, he thought about the oldest book in the MLA’s collection – Erasmus’s 1522 translation of the New Testament.

“We looked to see which Mennonite institutions had 16th-century Erasmian publications,” Schrag says. “Goshen has two, Bethel and AMBS have one each, and EMU has more than a dozen.”

Schrag also knew immediately who he wanted for a keynote speaker: Bethel graduate Greta Kroeker, Ph.D., an Erasmus scholar and a professor at the University of Waterloo.

 Schrag imagined Kroeker would want to give her keynote lecture virtually, but she insisted on coming to campus in person.

Kroeker will open the symposium with her address, “Erasmus for Our Age,” on the Bethel campus, with livestreaming to audiences at other sites, including EMU> to audiences at Conrad Grebel, EMU and Goshen.

Saturday’s activities will take place at all four locations, linked via Zoom. 

“Erasmus embraced the innovative technology of his day: the printing press,” Sprunger notes. “In that spirit, we are using our newest technologies to connect presenters, audiences and the rare books themselves across thousands of miles.”

Activities start with a show-and-tell of each institution’s Erasmus books. There will also be a virtual exhibit on the symposium website.

 There will be student research presentations on specific library holdings, and two roundtable discussions, one with faculty members and Kroeker on the contemporary relevance of Erasmus, and one a conversation among librarians about the value of rare books and the future of books.

The symposium wraps up around 3 p.m. “Then it will be done,” Schrag says, “and there will be Erasmus disciples multiplying apace.”

This year, EMU’s Common Read is also groundbreaking. The Best We Could Do by , an Oakland-based author and illustrator, is the first time a graphic novel has been selected.

The book, based on Bui’s family experiences in the Vietnam War and after immigration to the United States, was a national bestseller and has collected multiple awards. It was the finalist for the 2017 National Book Critics Circle and the American Library Association’s 2018 Notable Books Selection.

More recently, the novel was among the for 2020 and 2021 academic years.

“The Intellectual Life Committee wanted to feature the issues, history, and culture of Asian Americans in this year’s Common Read,” said Jennifer Ulrich, technical services librarian and committee member. “This is an interesting and informative telling of the Vietnam War, the history that led up to the conflict and the life story of the author and her family in the context of the war and as refugees. It covers topics of family, trauma, race and immigration.”

Ulrich says the graphic novel is a growing genre for the telling of fiction and nonfiction stories. “It’s another way to interact with the story through the artwork,” she said. 

Professors teaching in diverse fields at EMU have integrated the book into their syllabi: several writing classes are using it, as well as courses in young adult literature, cinema and visual communication theory, and a history course on colonialism, Ulrich added.

A University Colloquium event Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. in Lehman Auditorium focuses on the medium: “Storytelling through Graphic Novels and Memoirs” with panelists and professors Steven Johnson, Kevin Seidel and Mary Anne Zehr.

In spring 2023, the keynote address at EMU’s Academic and Creative Excellence Festival (ACE) will be from Luisa A. Igloria, a Filipina American poet and current Poet Laureate of Virginia, Ulrich said.

In 2019, EMU hosted poet, theologian and conflict mediator Pádraig Ó Tuama, who visited virtually and provided multiple opportunities for engagement across campus. [Click the link to view recordings.] Also on campus were Emmi Itäranta, author of Searching for Water (Teos, 2012) and Emily Raboteau, author of Searching for Zion: the Quest for Home in the African Diaspora (Grove Press, 2013).

Past selections include Exit West by Moshin Hamid (Riverhead, 2017) Callings by Dave Isay with Maya Millett (Penguin, 2017), Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates (Random House, 2015), and The Shallows – What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains by Nicolas Carr (W.W. Norton and Co., 2010).

Chamber Singers is a select choir, directed by Professor Benjamin Bergey, that performs a wide range of choral literature of various periods, styles, and cultures. The choir performs on and off campus in area venues and churches, and also hosts a spring tour in early March. This year performances are planned from March 3-12 in Ohio and Indiana.

The international tour to western Europe is the first planned in several years. 

Choir members come from seven states and include non-music majors. Members include Afton Rhodes-Lehman, Dayton, Va.; Reah Clymer, Meridian, Miss.; Hollyn Miller, Lancaster, Pa.; Anna Hoover, New Carlisle, Ohio; Savannah Smith, Key West, Fla.; Greta Schrag, Harleysville, Pa.; Iris Anderson, Corvallis, Ore.; Jacob Nissley, Canton, Ohio; Canyon Penner, Goshen, Ind.; Adam Hoover, New Carlisle, Ohio; Thaddeus Jackson, Harrisonburg, Va.; and Andrew Zook, Canton, Ohio.

Connect with the EMU Chamber Singers!

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Watch about singing during the pandemic that features EMU Chamber Singers.

Hear director and Peacebuilder podcast guest Benjamin Bergey speak about peacebuilding and music.

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2022-23 Highlights

SONGS FOR CHANGE: CJP Songwriters Past and Present, with EMU Chamber Singers

Saturday, Oct.1, 7 p.m., Martin Chapel

Guest artists and Center for Justice and Peacebuilding alums will perform original works that focus on the power music has in their work as peacebuilders. Frances Crowhill Miller MA ‘11 and Daryl Snider MA ‘12, along with current graduate student Tarini Nagasaila Suresh, will perform original songs. The EMU Chamber Singers will join. This concert is sponsored by the new music and peacebuilding major.

CHAMBER SINGERS REUNION: Homecoming Weekend

Saturday, Oct. 8, 1-2 p.m., Lehman Auditorium

Previous members of Chamber Singers or other auditioned choral groups  are invited to join this special time. We’ll hear from current student members and faculty, and of course, sing together! Learn about ways to support the group’s upcoming tour.

SALSA CONCERT, featuring Bio Ritmo

Sunday, Oct. 16, 4 p.m., Thomas Plaza

Guest indie salsa band will perform on Thomas Plaza. Caravanserai, a local community-building ensemble, and the EMU Chamber Singers will also collaborate and perform, sponsored by the new music and peacebuilding major. A time of dialogue with community members will precede the concert at 3 p.m.

CHOIR CONCERT: Friday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium

LIGHTING OF THE GREEN: Monday, Dec. 5, 4;30 p.m., Thomas Plaza

���ٳշ��������°��鳧�����: Sunday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m., Celebration of Hope, Lehman Auditorium 

CHORAL EVENSONG: Sunday, Feb. 5, Emmanuel Episcopal Church

SPRING CHOIR CONCERT: Friday, April 21, 7 p.m., Lehman Auditorium

This semester’s Suter Science Seminar lineup at ��ݮ���� include professionals working in disease ecology, behavioral health and crisis services, animal health, and biology.

The events will be held in Swartzendruber Hall of the Suter Science Center, and will be livestreamed for the off-campus community on the . [You do not need to be a member of Facebook to view the livestream.]

Wednesday, Sept. 14, 4 p.m. “Emerging Vector-borne Disease in the Commonwealth” with Dr. Gillian Eastwood, assistant professor of vector-borne disease ecology in the Department of Entomology at Virginia Tech.

Saturday, Oct. 8, 10 a.m. “Building-up the Behavioral Health System in a Time of Crisis: Opportunities and Challenges” with Dr. Rolando L. Santiago, chief of behavioral health and crisis services for the Department of Health and Human Services in Montgomery County, Maryland.

Wednesday, Nov. 9, 4 p.m. “Count Up: My Reflections on Science, Industry, and Life…” with Raul E. Diaz Lugo, global quality lead for Merck, Animal Health North America.

Wednesday, Nov. 30, 4 p.m. “Characterization of Sensory Driven Intrinsic Iris Constriction in Mammals” Dr. Marquis Walker, assistant professor of biology at James Madison University.

The lectures are made possible by the sponsorship of the Daniel B. Suter Endowment in Biology and the co-sponsorship of supporting programs. 

Named in honor of long-time EMU biology professor, Daniel B. Suter (1920-2006), the Endowment in Biology was established in 1986 through the generous donations of alumni and friends and currently consists of over $1 million of invested funds. EMU hopes to double the Suter Endowment in order to more adequately support distinguished faculty and to increase scholarship aid to deserving students.

“You are the subject of your own research.” Listening to that inner voice sent Lisa Collins, EdD, on her own journey of autoethnography. Collins is co-teaching Strategies for Trauma Awareness and Resilience (STAR), Level 2, with Lead Trainer �����پ������Ѳ��Բ��ھ������, at the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding’s

Two five-day SPI sessions remain, beginning June 6 and June 13, with courses in circle processes, restorative practices for sexual and domestic harms, building resilience for challenging systemic racism, and several other courses, including STAR I (June 6).

There is still time to apply to courses. Due to some cancellations from international participants who did not receive a visa, there is still a small amount of partial scholarship funding for individuals as well as organizational discounts available to organizations sending three or more people. To apply to SPI 2022, . (To start your SPI Application, you will need to create an EMU My Forms account)

An educational professional with over 25 years of experience, Lisa Collins holds degrees in psychology and education and works as an assistant professor at Lewis and Clark College and a business consultant in Portland, Oregon.

Learn more about Lisa Collins, her experiences in healing from racial trauma, and how her STAR training changed her healing path in a