2018 Program & Speakers

The Introduction was delivered by Dean of the Social Sciences Division Katharyne Mithcell. Mithcell's current research explores the role of faith-based organizations in providing humanitarian aid and refuge to migrants. She is interested in the transnational networking employed by church groups to protect asylum claimants, the policy impacts of church-based forms of activism, and the shifting meanings and practices of sanctuary. 

The first presentation was "Lessons from a Very Hot Planet," delivered by Scott Wing. Wing is a biologist who explores evolution, ecology, and climate change at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, where he is curator of fossil plants. His research focuses on the Cretaceous and early Cenozoic, a period of globally warm climate beginning 150 million year ago.

The second presentation was "The Force Majeure," delivered by Newton Harrison. Harrison and his wife, Helen, comprise The Harrison Studio; they have developed a worldwide network among biologists, ecologists, architects, urban planners, politicians, and other artists to initiate collaborative dialogues about ideas and solutions that support biodiversity and community development. The Harrisons are Arts Dean’s Eminent Professors at UC Santa Cruz, and lead the Center for the Study of the Force Majeure.

The Conference featured a Q&A Panel of the two speakers, moderated by Paul Koch, Dean of the Physical and Biological Sciences Division and Distinguished Professor of Earth and Planetary Sciences. Concluding remarks were delivered by Susan Solt, Dean of the Arts Division and Distinguished Professor of Theater Arts.