Eberly College Dean hosts Homecoming Event, “New Ways of Looking”

Morgantown, WV, October 9, 2006:  From radio telescopes and effects of disturbed sleep to hidden Biblical texts and the controversial 2000 presidential election, a wide variety of topics will be discussed at the 11th annual WVU Eberly College of Arts and Sciences Homecoming Lectures and Brunch Program, hosted by Dean Mary Ellen Mazey.

The lectures will take place at 9:00 a.m. in the first floor classrooms of Woodburn Hall prior to the WVU-Syracuse game to kick-off at noon.

Topics include:

John Ferling, professor emeritus of history at the University of West Georgia and recipient of the 2006 Eberly College Alumni Recognition Award, presents “Another Look at General George Washington: Flawed Icon.” The presentation focuses on George Washington as “the indispensable man” as an exaggeration, and how differently history would be if he never achieved a glorious victory.

Maura McLaughlin, assistant professor of physics, presents “Looking at the Sky with Radio Eyes,” exploring the advancements in radio astronomy using telescope such as the Green Bank radio telescope, the largest fully-steerable radio telescope in the world located 200-miles south of the WVU campus.

“Looking Left, Looking Right: How do we assess the disputed 2000 presidential election?” is the topic of discussion by Robert DiClerico, professor of political science. His talk will explore how the 2000 presidential election has been regarded here and abroad as an embarrassment to the American system of government. He will discuss lessons that both confirm and dispute this harsh assessment.

“Looking at the ‘New’ Bible? Can Hidden Texts Reveal Ancient Secrets?” by associate professor of religious studies, Aaron Gale, examines “hidden” Biblical information about characters including Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and Judas. Also, what “secrets” are found in the Infancy Gospel of Thomas, the Gospel of Mary, the Gospel of Judas, and the Apocalypse of Peter.

Hawley Montgomery-Downs, assistant professor of psychology, discusses the effects of sleep deprivation and the importance of getting Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, an essential element to healthy sleep and vivid dreams, discovered just 50 years ago.

The lectures will followed by a Mountaineer Brunch at 10 a.m. in Hatfields, located in the Mountainlair. Registration will be taken by phone by calling 304-293-7405 extension 5200, or e-mail at Brenda.Riggle@mail.wvu.edu by October 12, 2006. When registering, please list three lectures you wish to attend in order of preference.

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