Drs. Lederle and Wharton-Beck discuss a class they co-teach that examines how urban transportation infrastructure has historically incluenced racial policies, using the Rondo Neighborhood (Saint Paul, MN) as a case study -- and explores how things can be done differently today.

Dr. Amy Nygaard shares how her interest in contemporary African artists led her to examine the connection between political unrest and grotesque aesthetics in the work of South African artist Jane Alexander

Mark's behind-the-scenes work makes it easy for you to find books, articles, music, audiobooks, and videos in the library.

Monica Liu, Associate Professor of Sociology in the Department of Justice & Society Studies, discusses how her experience working at a Chinese dating agency influenced her research on the social and economic factors that lead some women to seek marriage with Western men.

This week, Shannon Scott explores how horror movies serve as both thrilling entertainment and a way to release pent-up individual fears and emotions. She also examines how the genre can be used to address complex societal issues.

Additionally, Dr. Scott draws connections between modern horror films and the folk tales and fairy tales of centuries past.

Dr. Ali Ling discusses per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of human-made chemicals commonly known as "forever chemicals" due to their resistance to breaking down in the environment. These substances are found in a wide range of everyday products, including textiles, building materials, carpets, flooring, electronics, paper products, children's toys, cosmetics, and more.

Because PFAS are so widespread and persist indefinitely, they pose long-term environmental risks, even though their toxicities vary.

While there is a lot of research into the treatment of PFAS already in the environment, Dr. Ling's research focuses on understanding the broader impacts of PFAS treatment and exploring ways to significantly restrict PFAS use and emissions before they enter the environment.

his week, Sarah interviews Alexis Easley, Chair of English and Communications Studies, about the remarkable life of Fanny Kemble—a Victorian actress, author, abolitionist, and iconoclast.

Although largely forgotten today, Fanny Kemble was a groundbreaking figure who achieved international celebrity in both England and the United States, making her one of the first to gain such widespread recognition.

Dr. Easley draws a parallel between Kemble's ability to skillfully navigate and influence the media of her time and the way modern influencers build their careers on social media platforms today.

This week, Sarah spoke with Dr. Bernard Armada, a Communication Studies professor, about how taking an improv class at a comedy club transformed his life and shaped his teaching philosophy.

Dr. Armada explained that while games like Zip Zap Zop might seem silly in academic or professional settings, improv is a deeply collaborative art form that helps build stronger connections between people.

By using theatrical techniques in everyday contexts, improv encourages openness, empathy, and trust – essential skills for enhancing both personal and professional relationships.