This spring, the Let’s Talk series will focus three episodes on topics surrounding COVID-19 and domestic violence and abuse.

Now in its 10th season, the series will be streamed from Indiana University East’s Facebook Premiere and is available to watch on WCTV Channel 20.

The series is hosted by the IU East School of Humanities and Social Sciences. Chera LaForge, associate professor of political science at IU East, is the moderator for the series.

Rosalie Aldrich, John and Corinne Graf Professor and chair for the Department of Communication Studies at IU East, organizes the Let’s Talk series.

“The Let’s Talk series started because I am passionate about community health,” Aldrich said. “It is my hope that through the Let’s Talk series we are bringing valuable information on a variety of health topics to Wayne County viewers. I am very proud to celebrate the 10th year of Let’s Talk and would like to thank all of the past and present planning committee members, expert speakers, discussion moderators, and WCTV staff.”

The goal of the series is to provide an interactive forum for students, faculty and staff and members of the community to discuss current health topics and concerns.

The first episode will air at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 9. The discussion, “COVID and Schools,” includes speakers Karen Clark, Ed.D., R.N., dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences and director of the Center for Health Promotion at IU East; Matthew Hicks, Ph.D., superintendent of Northeastern Schools; and George Philhower, Ph.D., superintendent of Western Wayne Schools.

Beth Trammell, associate professor of psychology at IU East, is one of the speakers for the series on March 16 focused on the topic, “Parenting during COVID.” This discussion will provide support for parents during the pandemic, Trammell said.

“As we are continuing to do our best as parents, sometimes it can feel overwhelming and lonely – like we can never do enough to support our kids,” Trammell said. “Experts on the panel will share strategies for managing our emotions, as well as the emotions of our kids. In addition, practical tips for helping kids through the ups and downs of ever-changing school situations and managing expectations for increased screen time. Tune in to gather helpful information if you are a parent or caregiver of kids no matter their age!”

The series topic for April 6 is “Domestic Violence and Abuse.” This episode will include Tracy Amyx, deputy Sexual Misconduct and Title IX coordinator and director of Affirmative Action/EEOC Officer at IU East, Scott E. Dunning, Chief of Police for the Indiana University Police Department-East; and Jennifer Claypoole, L.C.S.W., director of Behavioral Health at IU East.

Amyx said the episode will provide viewers with a diverse discussion from resources available to how to support victims.

“Dating and domestic violence affects all communities and does not discriminate regardless of gender, race, age, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, religion or nationality. The impact of interpersonal violence can cross generations and last a lifetime,” Amyx said. “Being aware of resources, recognizing warning signs of a potentially vulnerable relationship, and understanding ways to support victims are crucial in helping break this devastating cycle of violence.”

Upcoming Schedule for “Let’s Talk”

• Topic: COVID and Schools
• 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 9
• Speakers
  • Karen Clark, Ed.D, R.N., Dean for the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, director for the Center for Health Promotion, IU East
  • Matthew Hicks, Ph.D., Superintendent for Northeastern Schools
  • George Philhower, Ph.D., Superintendent for Western Wayne Schools

• Topic: Parenting during COVID
• 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 16
• Speakers:
  • Beth Trammell, Ph.D., HSPP, Director, M.A. in Mental Health Counseling Program and associate professor of psychology, IU East
  • Debra Browning, parent educator, Birth to Five
  • Cindy Isaacs, parent educator, Birth to Five

• Topic: Domestic Violence and Abuse
• 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 6
• Speakers:
  • Tracy Amyx, Deputy Sexual Misconduct and Title IX coordinator and director of Affirmative Action/EEOC Officer at IU East
  • Scott E. Dunning, Chief of Police for the Indiana University Police Department-East
  • Jennifer Claypoole, L.C.S.W., director of Behavioral Health at IU East