UVic Masterminds lecture series returns

Retired University of Victoria professors don’t stop sharing their rich intellectual knowledge and experiences once they leave the classroom. As part of the annual Masterminds free public lecture series, they’ll offer insight on topics ranging from Islam, to the use of math in slowing the spread of infectious diseases, to health and wellness.

The series is presented by the UVic Retirees Association and the Centre on Aging, with support from the university. The series runs Wednesdays, April 9 through 30, at 7 p.m. in UVic’s Harry Hickman Building, room 105.

April 9—I Did It My Way: Memoir of a Woman from Hong Kong
Dr. Fong Woon grew up in Hong Kong, emigrated to Canada in 1968, and obtained her PhD in sociology in 1975. She taught as a sessional instructor for six years before becoming a faculty member with UVic’s newly formed Department of Pacific and Asian Studies in 1985. She’ll discuss her experiences, including surviving the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong and its grim post-war conditions, coming to Canada and confronting covert racism while seeking academic employment, and her ongoing search for identity in both Hong Kong and her adopted country.

April 16—Contributions of Mathematical Modelling to Controlling Infectious Diseases
Ever wonder how public health officials determine their response to infectious diseases? During her career at UVic, Dr. Pauline van den Driessche applied new mathematical methods to study the dynamics of epidemics. In her presentation, she’ll explain how mathematical models are used to predict and monitor the spread of infectious diseases such as influenza, measles and malaria and to estimate the percentage of the population requiring vaccination.

April 23—Studying Islam in the Academic Context
Dr. Andrew Rippin, UVic Professor Emeritus of Islamic History, has written many books and articles on Islam. In his presentation he’ll explore how the study of Islam in the academic context has changed over the past 40 years and how scholars have come under a sometimes-unwelcome spotlight. He’ll discuss the factors that have made the subject academically controversial, as well as a vehicle for cross-cultural understanding.

April 30—Healing, Humour and High Level Wellness
Dr. Martin Collis has been at the forefront of fitness and healthy living throughout his academic life. In his presentation he’ll look at some of the ways that Canadians can live, not only long, but well. He will draw on powerful and persuasive research to demonstrate how to maximize the quantity and quality of our days.

Admission is free but please register by calling 250-721-6369 or emailing senage@uvic.ca. Plan to arrive early, as seating is limited. There is a $2.50 charge in all campus parking lots after 6 p.m. The stadium parking lot is recommended.

-- 30 --