The Indiana University East School of Humanities and Social Sciences and the School of Nursing will host a new series this spring to discuss current topics and concerns. “Let’s Talk” is an interactive forum for students, faculty, and members of the community to participate free of charge.

The first “Let’s Talk” discussion will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, February 13, in Vivian Auditorium. The topics are bullying, diversity and social acceptance. IU East faculty Mary Folkerth, clinical assistant professor of nursing, and Elvinet Piard, assistant professor of communication studies, will be the speakers.

“The aim of the Let’s Talk series is to provide students and the community with an opportunity to increase their knowledge and promote discourse on a variety of important social and medical topics,” said Rosalie Aldrich, assistant professor of communication studies. “It is my hope that this series will provide an opportunity for IU East students and faculty to develop partnerships with healthcare providers, local schools and businesses, and other members of the community.”

“Let’s Talk” will include a comprehensive presentation by IU East faculty on the social or medical topic followed by a question and answer discussion led by a moderator. Questions will be submitted to the presenters anonymously from the audience.

Dean of the School of Nursing Karen Clark said, “The School of Nursing is pleased to collaborate with the School of Humanities and Social Sciences to promote dialogue on such important social and health issues facing the citizens of our community. We look forward to interacting with students, staff, faculty, and community members as dialogue is the first step in developing community awareness and problem solving.”

“Let’s Talk” Schedule:
Monday, February 13 – “Bullying, Diversity and Social Acceptance” from 6-8 p.m. in Vivian Auditorium. Speakers are Mary Folkerth, clinical assistant professor of nursing, and Elvinet Piard, assistant professor of communication studies.

Monday, February 27 – “Women’s Health and Social Issues” from 6-8 p.m. in Vivian Auditorium. Speakers are Diana Stanforth, clinical assistant professor of nursing, Dr. Rubinder Dab of Reid Hospital and Health Care Services, and Laverne Nishihara, associate professor of English.

Monday, March 5 – “Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease” from 6-8 p.m. in Vivian Auditorium. Speakers are Paula Baumann, assistant professor of nursing, Carolyn Britt, lecturer in nursing, and Aimee Prater visiting professor of psychology.