Humanistic Studies Prof. Derek Jeffreys delivered the first of a series of “Last Lectures” by UW-Green Bay faculty members as part of the University’s 50th Anniversary celebration. Jeffreys, who was asked to present a lecture topic as if it was his last chose, “The Mystery of the Person: Teaching Philosophy and Religion in a Maximum-Security Prison,” to a large audience of students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members in the University Union’s Christie Theatre, Sept. 23.
A video recording of his presentation, surrounding the insights he gained teaching and working with inmates at the Green Bay Correctional Institution, is now available. Jeffreys imparted the dangers of dehumanization, the distinction between the “inner” and “outer” of a person, and the possibility of real change for some individuals.
UW-Green Bay’s “Last Lecture Series” takes place during the 2015-16 academic year in celebration of the University’s 50th anniversary. Each month, a UW-Green Bay faculty member will present on a topic of his or her choice. The monthly lectures will take place Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the University Union’s Christie Theatre, on the campus at 2420 Nicolet Drive, Green Bay. The lectures are free and open to the public.
The following is the list of Last Lecture participants and topics:
- Sept. 23 — Derek Jeffreys, Professor, Humanistic Studies
“The Mystery of the Person: Teaching Philosophy and Religion in a Maximum-Security Prison” - Oct. 28 — Jeff Entwistle, Professor, Theatre and Dance
“We All Need Theatre in Our Lives and in Our Future” - Nov. 18 — Susan Gallagher-Lepak, Associate Professor, Nursing
“E-Learning: The Train has Left the Station” - Feb. 17 — Lucy Arendt, Associate Dean, College of Professional Studies
“Made to Serve: The Tragic Corruption of America’s Founding Values” - March 23 — Steve Meyer, Associate Professor, Natural and Applied Sciences
“Forget the Three T’s: Focus on the Six C’s” - April 13 — Phil Clampitt, Professor, Information and Computing Science
“The Magical Connection between Uncertainty, Innovation, and the Human Spirit.”