The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is hosting the upcoming fall symposium, “Rural America” Wasteland or Reasons for Hope?” 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Oct. 12 at East Campus Union, 1705 Arbor Drive.
The symposium is open to the public, with options to attend in person or via Zoom. The cost is $20 for in-person attendance, which includes lunch, or $15 for virtual participation. While OLLI membership is not required, registration by Sept. 26 is necessary.
The symposium will explore the contrasting dynamics between urban and rural America, particularly the perceived divide between socially liberal urban areas and more conservative rural regions.
Speakers will address this question from various social, economic, and political perspectives. Featured Speakers are: •
- Steven Conn, professor of history at Miami University in Ohio and author of several books, including "The Lies of the Land."
- Jena Ochsner – farmer, farm wife, mother of two, and passionate advocate for agriculture.
- Brad Lubben – associate professor, Nebraska Extension.
- Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel, professor, Extension specialist in Scottsbluff.
- L.J. McElravy – associate professor, Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication
- Ronnie Green – Chancellor Emeritus, raised on a mixed beef, dairy, and cropping farm in southwest Virginia.
- Erin Schoenberg – development manager at the Center for Rural Affairs.
- Jillian Linster – policy director at the Center for Rural Affairs.
Register for the symposium online. Although this is a public event, everyone must create an account to register. The symposium is sponsored by Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNL; Unitarian Church of Lincoln/Lectures Series; Humanities Nebraska; Allo Fiber; Bridge for Better Living; Eastmont Senior Living Center; HoriSun Hospice.
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNL is a member-driven organization committed to providing and promoting superior-quality learning experiences, events and travel opportunities designed for adults 50 years old and older who believe that "curiosity never retires."
