WYOMISSING, Pa. — Penn State Berks is reaching out to the local community in a new way — through "LionSide Chats," a modern interpretation of former U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Depression-era “Fireside Chats.” These webinars provide current and timely talks from college faculty and staff experts on a variety of topics and disciplines.
The one-hour webinars are free and open to the public. All LionSide Chats will be delivered via Zoom webinars. A complete schedule of talks and recordings of past LionSide Chats are available on the LionSide Chats website.
“The LionSide Chat series is a classic example of great ideas blossoming through communication and collaboration,” stated Dawn Pfeifer Reitz, assistant teaching professor of communication arts and sciences and co-founder of the program.
General LionSide Chat Schedule
"Alternative Grading: What’s the Catch?"
April 5, 12:15–1:15 p.m.
Presented by Sonia Delaquito, learning center coordinator
In this webinar, students will learn about the alternative grading process and how it can impact their future at Berks and beyond. Alternative grades were designed with the best interests of students in mind, but they may not be aware of the long-term impact and consequences of their choices. Financial aid and entrance to major eligibility could be impacted because of this decision. Penn State Berks Academic Advising and Financial Aid will be available to help answer any questions participants may have about this process.
"National Biomechanics Day: A Virtual Experience with Penn State Berks"
April 7, 10–11 a.m.
Presented by Allison Singles, assistant professor of kinesiology and mechanical engineering; Joseph Mahoney, associate professor of mechanical engineering and kinesiology; and Benjamin Infantolino, associate professor of kinesiology
Join Penn State Berks in celebrating National Biomechanics Day. In this chat, three expert bio mechanists will demonstrate how engineering and mathematics can be used to unravel the mysteries of the human body. The webinar will include interactive demonstrations that can be conducted at home by viewers of all ages.
"What Can I Do with a Communication Arts and Sciences (CAS) Degree? Ask an Alum!"
April 23, 12:15–1:15 p.m.
Presented by Jill Burk, associate teaching professor and program chair of the communication arts and sciences degree program
During this chat, a distinguished group of CAS alumni will talk about their career journeys, their shining moments, and some of their memorable missteps. In addition, they will discuss how their undergraduate education provided a foundation for their current career and share some practical advice. This is a great opportunity for current and prospective CAS students to learn more about post-graduation pathways.
Majorly Prepared LionSide Chat Schedule
In this new series of LionSide Chats titled “Majorly prepared: Penn State Berks degrees and opportunities,” current and prospective students will learn about the degrees they can complete at Penn State Berks.
"Scientists and health professionals change the world: Find out how to become one"
April 2, 12:15 p.m.
In this chat about careers in healthcare and science, program chairs will discuss the opportunities available to students who earn a Penn State degree. Degrees at Penn State Berks include biology, biochemistry and molecular biology, science (with options in life science and general science), and kinesiology.
"Accounting and business: Because you want a job when you graduate"
April 9, 12:15 p.m.
A college education is one of the most significant investments an individual or family can make. The Penn State Berks accounting and business degrees provide some of the highest-yielding returns on investment in higher education. In this webinar, students will learn about opportunities in accounting, finance, management, marketing, economics, and other related fields. Degrees at Penn State Berks include accounting and business (with concentrations in accounting, financial services, and marketing/management).
"Art on campus. How to express and understand influence through art"
April 15, 12:15 p.m.
In this webinar, participants will learn how to become part of the artistic community on campus and what Penn State Berks has to offer. The webinar includes presentations from the curator of the Freyberger Gallery, theater productions, and art history courses.
For more information and to view the complete LionSide Chats schedule, visit the website or email [email protected].
