A popular destination for the Belmont community has become an off-campus classroom for neighbors. Bongo Java began hosting Belmont professors in October for a lecture series on the first Tuesday of every month that is free and open to the public.
“It is something I’ve been wanting to do for a while,” said Bongo Java owner Bob Bernstein. “Anything to get people to talk about different topics is worthwhile, and being right across the street form Belmont, it is neat to work with the professors.”
With the help of Center for Entrepreneurship Director Jeff Cornwall, Bernstein recruited faculty who have received the Chaney Distinguished Professor Award or the Presidential Faculty Achievement Award. The Chaney Award honors faculty for excellence in the classroom and the Presidential Award is for faculty who set an example of service to students. Professors choose their own topics, which include religion, politics, science and fashion.
“The benefit is that (the lecture series) continues to enhance the relationship between Belmont and the community we are a part of,” Cornwall said “We are enthusiastic about it. I hope it builds and becomes a wonderful bridge between the faculty and the community.”
All lectures are 6 to 7:30 p.m., in Bongo Java’s upstairs lounge. The lecture series features:
Marcia McDonald, English Department
Nov. 6
From Partisan Politics to Civil Conversation: Some Ideas from the Great Writers
Maggie Monteverde, English Department
Dec. 4
The Origins of Christmas Customs
Marty Bell, School of Religion
Jan. 8
A Spirituality of Being Who You Are
John Gonas, Finance
Feb. 5
How the Financial Markets are Digesting the November Election Results
Jennifer Thomas, Biology
March 5
Human Papillomavirus Infections: Beyond Warts and Cervical Cancer
Sue Trout, English
April 2
Oh, I Couldn’t Wear It, But It Looks Good on You: The Function of Manners in the South
Jeff Cornwall, Entrepreneurship
May 7
Work/Life Balance: Easier Said than Done
