These select single-session lectures are open to both members and non-members. Registration is required.

School Board Governance: Past, Present, and Future

Since the COVID pandemic, American school boards have been in the news as sites of political battles over hot-button issues like protests over vaccine requirements and book bans. Once a site of sleepy meetings and low-turnout elections, the school board is an institution that has garnered much public scrutiny in the present era, even as its relative political power is on the decline. This session will present research related to the history of the American school board, provide an overview of the present political and cultural pressures that this institution is facing, and invite debate related to what the future of the school board might hold.

Instructor: Kathleen Knight-Abowitz is Professor of Social Foundations in the Department of Educational Leadership, Miami University.

1 Monday: April 20; 9:00–10:15 am
Format: Virtual
Location: Online

Doing a Little Bit Each Day! Life Skills for Independent Living

Are you ready to develop or regain the skills needed to perform meaningful daily activities? Unlike a traditional classroom setting, this hands-on class is practical and student centered with activities structured to address functional goals. This class is designed for adults of varying abilities who want to build the fundamental skills necessary for greater autonomy, such as increasing grip strength, regaining balance, managing stairs, and completing tasks throughout the day without going to the gym. The focus will be on analyzing the specific demands of each activity and adapting the environment or task to ensure everyone can succeed.

Co-Instructors: Whitney Housley has been an occupational therapist for the past five years, primarily working with seniors. Whitney has an interest in longevity and quality of life. Becky Terkula is an occupational therapist with a passion for helping adults regain independence, adapt to change, and continue living meaningful, fulfilling lives.

1 Monday: April 6; 12:30–1:45 pm
Format: In person
Location: West Chester, Chesterwood Senior Living, Monarch Theater

O'er The Ramparts He Watched

The surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 was a traumatic event which disrupted the lives of millions of Americans in the years that followed. Many military-aged young men felt the need to avenge the intrusion, not just for their country, but for themselves personally. From cities to the countryside, they enlisted in the armed forces. This is the story of the instructor’s father, who was a United States Marine during this tumultuous time.

Instructor: Dan Accrocco is an architect in the Physical Facilities Department, Miami University, and an author on his family's immigration story and father's life during World War II.

1 Tuesday: April 28; 9:00–10:15 am
Format: In person
Location: Oxford, Boyd Hall, Room 228

Title IX and College Athletics

If you are a fan of any sport, Title IX is a topic you cannot avoid. How can a school support a men's golf team, but not a women's golf team? Why do the women's teams get school funding even though their sport doesn't sell as many tickets? Will all athletes receive name, image, and likeness dollars, or revenue-generating funds in addition to their scholarships? How is this federal law interpreted when the highest paying male college athletes make millions? The world of the NCAA is changing, but the federal act for Title IX has been in force for over 50 years. Let's discuss what Title IX is—and isn't, and share some ideas and insights on Title IX and college athletics.

Instructor: Jennie Gilbert is currently in her 19^th year as Miami University's Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator.

1 Thursday: April 23; 9:00–10:15 am
Format: Hybrid
Location: Online or Oxford, Boyd Hall, Room 107

Leica and Its Legacy in Photography

Few names in photography carry the same mystique as Leica. From capturing iconic moments of the 20^th century to shaping our understanding of documentary and street photography, Leica cameras have been the trusted companions of visionaries and storytellers worldwide. This class examines the artistry, innovation, and enduring influence of Leica in the history of photography, and uncovers how a small camera with a big reputation redefined the way the world is seen and remembered.

Instructor: Kenneth DeCrosta was heavily involved with the Richard & Carole Cocks Art Museum (RCCAM) as an intern and volunteer, focusing on the Charles M. Messer Leica Camera Collection.

1 Friday: April 3; 2:15–3:30 pm
Format: Virtual
Location: Online

FNSFA: Butler County Historical Society Quilts

Location: Butler County Historical Society, 327 N 2nd St, Hamilton
Date: Friday, April 10; 10:00 am–noon
Cost: Free | Members and Non-Members

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of quilts, the iconic American textile. This lecture and tour of the BCHS exhibit, “Quilts: Stories in Needle and Thread,” showcases quilts made in or brought to Butler County. Learn why quilts are considered fabric documents that tell the story of economics, technological and social progress, and women’s experiences and achievements. Note: The lecture and first floor of the tour are accessible; the second floor of the tour includes stairs.

FNSFA: Goggin Ice Center Tour

Location: Goggin Ice Center, 610 S Oak St, Oxford
Date: Friday, April 17; 10:00 am–noon
Cost: Free | Members and Non-Members

Ever wonder what a Zamboni does? Join us as we enjoy a guided tour of “The Goggin.” This multi-purpose sports facility on the Miami University Oxford campus features two ice rinks; one for RedHawks Hockey and Miami Synchronized Skating, and one for recreational skating. The building also hosts intramural hockey, broomball programs, Jr. RedHawks youth, Talawanda High School varsity hockey clubs, hockey camps, skating lessons, ice shows, and other events.

FNSFA: Cheesemaking 101

Location: Artistry Farm, 1800 W Bull Hill Rd, Liberty, IN
Date: Friday, April 24; 10:00 am–noon
Cost: Free | Members Only

For the last 20 years, Debra Bowles has shown her expertise at the Oxford Farmers Market. You may have encountered Debra peddling goat cheese and goat milk soaps. Here is your opportunity to experience the cheese-making process firsthand, right on the farm. Note: A supply list will be emailed to registrants prior to the event.

FNSFA: VEGA Americas Manufacturing Tour

Location: VEGA Americas Inc., 3877 Mason Research Pkwy, Mason
Date: Friday, May 1; 10:00 am–noon
Cost: Free | Members and Non-members

VEGA is a global manufacturer of sensors for measuring level and pressure, as well as devices and software for integrating them into process control systems. Join us as we learn much more about this company and visit its manufacturing operation in Mason, OH.

FNSFA: Berkeley Square

Location: 100 Berkeley Dr, Hamilton
Date: Friday, May 8; noon–2:00 pm
Cost: Free | Members and Non-Members

As a proud sponsor of ILR’s spring semester, Berkeley Square is excited to invite you to their campus. Learn about Life Plan Communities–what they are and how they differ from other types of communities. See the amenities and benefits they offer, learn about the levels of care and types of residential options available, and experience why residents choose to move to a Life Plan Community. Join us for a box lunch (vegetarian options available) followed by a tour of their homes and new indoor-outdoor recreational space, The Landing, located in the center of campus. Note: The ILR Annual Meeting and Ice Cream Social will be held immediately following this tour.