This Homecoming series featuring experts from theatre and dance, psychology and wellness will take place on Friday, Oct. 28

Sense of self after transformational change, combining observation with puppetry, and the science of the heart—all different topics, but have one thing in common: They will be discussed as part of a series of talks offered as part of Homecoming. 

The A&S Buff Talks and reception, hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences, will take place on Friday, Oct. 28, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. It will feature experts from the arts, psychology and wellness, and be held in the University Memorial Center Aspen Rooms, with a virtual-attendance option. The event is free, but registration is required at this link. 

A&S Buff Talks includes three presentations, which are as follows:

Side by Side: Bring together the art and science of birds for a future that’s looking up!

Professor Beth Osnes of theatre and dance will discuss Side by Side, a National Science Foundation-funded interdisciplinary project at CU Boulder that combines biological observation with performance-based puppetry. The aim is for youth to experience a deep shift in seeing the natural world as a teacher with whom they can co-create an equitable, survivable and thrive-able future.

How well do you know your past self?

Michael Wolfe (Psych’94), now a professor of cognitive psychology at Grand Valley State University in Michigan, will lead a discussion about our own awareness of change within ourselves, especially after a transformational event such as surgery. He will talk about how and why he came to this area of research, tying in stories of collaboration with a family member. 

Science of the heart: the role of emotions and heart rate variability on resilience and stress

Erin Cunningham Ritter, the College of Arts and Sciences’ director of wellness and employee engagement will discuss the latest research on the role heart rate variability and emotions play in performance and health. Participants will learn how to utilize the heart-brain connection to regulate heart rhythms to immediately address their emotional state in challenging situations, while building resilience and decreasing stress.

There will be an opportunity after each presentation for questions.

Dean Glen Krutz will joining the event and will be available during the reception. RSVPs are requested by Oct. 21.

At the top of the page, left to right, are Beth Osnes, Michael Wolfe and Erin Cunningham Ritter.