Professors will lecture on psychology, art, ethics, political science, history, international relations, and science. Each of five time slots will offer three concurrent events.
Attendees “are always looking for new experiences that will enrich their lives, so we work really hard to develop the curriculum with each event that’s new, engaging,” said Kevin Brennan, managing director of One Day University. “The topics are classic or somewhat timely.”
The professors are “experts in their field,” Brennan said. He and Schragis recruit them based on their popularity and prominence on campuses. A major draw is the convenience of a daylong event, compared with the more extensive commitment of returning to a university program. Another draw, Schragis said, is the speaking skill of the professors.
Blank called that a significant reason she keeps coming back. “The professors are not only very smart, they’re also very funny,” Blank said. “When I walk out, I feel like, ‘Wow, that was a great day.’ It’s very energizing.”
Barry Schwartz, a psychology professor at Swarthmore, lives in Philadelphia and will present his lecture “The Paradox of Choice: When More is Less,” which explores choices in contemporary consumer life. He’s taken part in six One Day University events, but Sunday will mark his first in Philadelphia.
“I love the idea of talking to people who have had a lifetime of experience,” Schwartz said.
Another lecturer, Anne Nelson of Columbia University, said a perk for her is attending other lectures. She and other participating professors also said they see the program as beneficial to communities.
One Day University will return for another Philadelphia event on March 22, 2015.
One Day University: 11 Professors With The Philadelphia Inquirer will be from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market St. Admission: $209, or $149 with a subscription to The Inquirer. Information: 800-300-3438, www.onedayu.com/events/detail/116.
©2014 The Philadelphia Inquirer. Visit The Philadelphia Inquirer at www.philly.com. Distributed by MCT Information Services
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