International bestselling author and 2011 Pulitzer Prize finalist Nicholas Carr presents the keynote address during Roberts Wesleyan College’s Biennial Academic Conference on Tuesday, March 13 at 9:15 a.m. in Andrews B. Hale Auditorium of the Cultural Life Center.
The two-day conference, themed “The Future: Opportunities and Challenges,” features a full schedule of presentations and special events taking place on campus during March 12-13. Carr’s keynote will be followed by a series of seminars that raise questions about “the future” in a wide variety of contexts.
Every other year, Roberts organizes and sponsors an academic conference that takes an in-depth look at a contemporary issue through multiple disciplinary lenses. Classes are canceled during the conference so the entire college community can participate.
Carr’s presentation will focus on the topic of his critically acclaimed book, The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains. In the text, he argues that over-exposure to mass media through the internet is altering not only the content of thought, but the very structure of the brain.
The Academic Conference also includes an opening reception for “Thaw: Realms and Origins” in the college’s Davison Gallery from 5 to 7 p.m. on Monday March 12. The exhibit features paintings by Jim Condron and Alberto Rey. This event is open to the public and free of charge.
The keynote address by Nicholas Carr, “The Mind in the Net,” begins at 9:15 a.m. on Tuesday, March 13. Participants may choose among 16 breakout sessions on “The future of …” addressing a wide array of topics, presented by Roberts Wesleyan faculty and staff which meet from 10:45 a.m. to noon. Registration is required. A luncheon from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. will feature Rochester Business Alliance President and CEO, Sandy Parker. Registration is required. From 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. participants can choose among 16 breakout sessions followed by a closing presentation and Q&A session with keynote speaker.
For a detailed listing of Academic Conference events and to register to participate, call 1-800-777-4RWC (4792) or visit http://www.roberts.edu/Academic_conference/default.asp.
