Virtual Events Library

Virtual Program Library

We are thinking about you and how we might support you as we change our work and social habits.

If you missed the live viewing of a virtual event, please see the recorded versions below and watch at your leisure. For recorded sessions, video links will be posted as soon as they are available.

To view recordings of past Athenaeum events, please visit the Athenaeum YouTube play list.

Upcoming Events

Index
(select the talk you would like to view to be directed to the video link)

Faculty, Staff, and Research Institutes

Social and Alumni Connection

Introduction to Online Mapping: ArcGIS with the QCL with Dr. Jeho Park P'25

Are you fascinated by maps? You may have spent days turning the globe, flipping through an atlas, or searching through Google Maps. Whether this sounds like you or you're looking to learn a new skill for the classroom, boardroom, or lab, join CMC and the Murty Sunak Quantitative Computing Lab for a workshop on ArcGIS. As an online program, ArcGIS (a type of geographic information system) allows you to create maps embedded with data, applications, and census information. The result is a "map" that not only shows you how a place looks but shares a story about the people who live there.

The Midterms Are Over… What’s Next? with Professor Jack J. Pitney

In the ten weeks leading up to the midterms, no two issues were more frequently searched online than taxes and jobs. These concerns are a staple in conservative talking points and helped fuel the belief there would be a "Red Wave." However, with the election behind us, the Democrats holding the Senate and only narrowly losing the House, many refer to the change in Washington as a "Red Trickle." Why did the election play out the way it did? Was it Trump, or was there something greater at play? More importantly, what does this mean for the future of the country and 2024? Join us as Jack Pitney, Roy P. Crocker Professor of Politics, attempts to answer these questions and more. The political landscape is heating up! Don't miss this opportunity to get the inside scoop.

The Upcoming Midterms with Professor Zach Courser '99

Midterms don't always get the same attention as general elections, but this year it feels like all eyes are on November 8th. With all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and a third of the Senate up for grabs, there's potential for significant change in Washington.

However, there are also more unknowns than normal this year. Will the overturning of Roe v. Wade mobilize left-leaning voters? Will the Trump factor be a benefit or detriment to the Republican party? We joined Zach Courser '99, Visiting Assistant Professor of Government, co-Director of the Policy Lab, and expert on American culture and politics, as he gave us insight into what we should expect for this year's biggest political event. Are we about to witness a major moment in American political history?

College Admission Coming Out of the Pandemic

2022 is a weird time to be applying to college. Are virtual tours a viable alternative to visiting campus in-person? Are standardized tests back? How should I expect schools to compare virtual or pandemic grades to those from more normal times? The sad truth is that there's no simple answer. The good news, though, is that there's no one better equipped to answer these questions than CMC's incredible college admission team.

We joined Jennifer Sandoval-Dancs, Associate Vice President for Admission and Financial Aid, as she answered these questions and more.

Please note that this is not a talk specifically about getting into CMC, but a broad conversation on the college admission process.

Recent Supreme Court Decisions: Their Impact Present and Future

In recent weeks the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled on several important cases regarding the separation of church and state, the right to bear arms, and the constitutional right to an abortion. These are cases that will have a lasting impact on the history of the United States. However, through the political noise, it can be hard to understand the practical implications of these decisions, both for the present moment and the distant future. George Thomas, Burnet C. Wohlford Professor of American Political Institutions, Director of the Salvatori Center, and expert on the Supreme Court and Constitutional Law explained where we are in this current moment and what we can expect in the future. Are we witnessing a turning point in American politics? 

Understanding Inflation with Professor Julio Garín

Inflation is at its highest level in decades. Whether it’s at the pump, the grocery store, or even online, consumers are feeling the impact of rising prices. In fact, prices at-large are up 8.5% year-over-year. In some categories, it’s far higher, with the cost of a used car up more than 40% on average! But what exactly is inflation, and why does it happen? Why is this year so bad?

Julio Garín, associate professor of economics at the Robert Day School of Economics and Finance, explained inflation both in a broad sense and in the context of this current moment in time. Is there an end in sight? Watch this insightful talk and find out.

Applying to College in 2022: A Conversation with Jennifer Sandoval-Dancs

A lot has changed in college admission over the last few years—students are considering alternate education paths, colleges have changed their admission processes (with the glaring example being an ongoing discussion on the future of standardized testing), and everyone is questioning what the “perfect college resumé” looks like in a post-COVID world. Jennifer Sandoval-Dancs, Associate Vice President for Admission and Financial Aid, gave some clarity on these topics with an overview of the college admission process in 2022.  Are you an alumnus or friend of the College with a high-school-age student in the family? This is the perfect opportunity to learn how the next wave of college students can best position themselves in 2022.

SQL FOR BEGINNERS PART TWO
Hosted by Jeho Park P'25 in the Murty Suntak Quantitative Computing Lab

SQL, or structured query language, is a computer language designed for eliciting information from databases. SQL works by providing a way for programmers and other computer users to get desired information from a database using something resembling normal English. On the simplest level, SQL consists of only a few commands: Select, which grabs data; Insert, which adds data to a database; Update, which changes information; and Delete, which deletes information. Other commands exist to create, modify, and administer databases. However, learning the nuances of this program takes some practice and guidance. The QCL guided us in learning the ins-and-outs of this type of program.

75th Anniversary Archives Presentation: Architecture and Public Art at CMC

When was the last time you took a stroll through the CMC campus? You might not recognize it! Enjoy a look at the growth of our beautiful campus over the years. This exhibition highlighted key building projects, brief histories of campus buildings, and discussion of notable campus architects.

Faculty Book Club

The CMC Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement had the first installment in our new series: Book Club with a Faculty Author. We joined Wendy Lower-John K. Roth Professor of History, George R. Roberts Fellow, and Director of the Mgrublian Center for Human Rights-as she discussed her newest book, The Ravine.

SQL for Beginners Part I
Hosted by Jeho Park P'25 in the Murty Suntak Quantitative Computing Lab

SQL, or structured query language, is a computer language designed for eliciting information from databases. SQL works by providing a way for programmers and other computer users to get desired information from a database using something resembling normal English. On the simplest level, SQL consists of only a few commands: Select, which grabs data; Insert, which adds data to a database; Update, which changes information; and Delete, which deletes information. Other commands exist to create, modify, and administer databases. However, learning the nuances of this program takes some practice and guidance. The QCL guided us in learning the ins-and-outs of this type of program.

75th Anniversary Archives Presentation: Athletics at CMC

This presentation is a celebration and examination of the incredible growth of the Physical Education Department, tracing its history from a joint program with Pomona to the inception of CMS Athletics. We learned about key figures over the years, both coaches and athletes, and enjoyed highlights of major accomplishments.

Instagram 101: How You Can Get Started

Instagram is the premier social media platform to connect with loved ones by sharing images and videos. It also allows users to directly connect with beloved institutions, thought leaders, and brands. Over the past decade, Instagram has grown to include more than one billion users. Do you find yourself out of the Instagram loop? Do you wonder what benefits this platform might provide? The CMC Office of Public Affairs taught a crash course on how to set up an Instagram account. We learned how to create our own personal or business profile, how to connect with our Facebook account, and how to utilize the many features found on the wildly popular app.

Veterans and the ROTC at CMC

In conjunction with Veterans Day, Sean Stanley, John Faranda '79, Evan Rutter '06, ROTC alumni, and special guests discussed the history of the ROTC at CMC and honored our veterans.

Drawing on the newly obtained archives, this presentation examined the military history at CMC with a focus on the College’s veteran students and faculty, the founding and lasting impact of the ROTC program on campus, and an exploration of the Vietnam War era of the 1960s and 1970s through the lens of CMC and the larger Claremont Colleges consortium.

R Programming for Beginners
With Director of the Murty Sunak Quantitative and Computing Lab; Visiting Assistant Professor, Jeho Park, Ph.D.

R is a programming language and environment for statistical computing and data visualization. It is widely used in academia and industries such as healthcare, government, consulting, and finance. These days, due to the high demand of data professionals, R programmers are welcomed in many different fields. In this introductory level hands-on workshop, participants learned the basics of R and its programming environment (RStudio). After taking this workshop, participants are able to start learning R further by utilizing other online learning resources.

75th Anniversary Exhibition Series
CMC Campus Stories

Claremont McKenna College is honoring the College’s 75th Anniversary and its vibrant history through a series of digital exhibitions commemorating the historic milestones, achievements, and individuals who have shaped the College. This fourth exhibition in the series, CMC Campus Stories, examines the history of the College through the voices of CMC alumni. Sharing light-hearted stories and memories, the exhibit compiles first-hand accounts tracing the history of the campus, student life and social clubs, notable on-campus activities and events, campus traditions, and faculty and staff.

75th Anniversary Exhibition Series
Not for Men Only: CMC Becomes Coeducational

Claremont McKenna College Archivist Sean Stanley, Ambassador-at-Large John Faranda '79, and Assistant Vice President for Alumni and Parent Engagement Evan Rutter '06 present a virtual exploration of what many consider to be the biggest change in CMC history: the decision to become a coeducational college. Drawing on materials from the Archives' recently processed collections, this talk will highlight the build-up to the decision, the reaction in the community, and the trailblazing women who first stepped foot on campus in 1976. They’ll discuss Jil and Jack Stark's involvement in the change and the pivotal moment at which CMC no longer stood for Claremont Men’s College. Please join them as they tell the story of the first women on campus, offer a behind-the-scenes look at the building of the exhibit, and answer questions about the Archives and its collections.

The Stark Presidency with Jil '58 GP'11 and Jack Stark '57 GP'11

Appointed president of CMC in 1970, Jack Stark '57 GP'11 served as CMC's chief executive during some of the most challenging periods in the history of higher education. Under his leadership, CMC's endowment grew from $10 million to more than $350 million. He led the college to exceptional growth in reputation, academic quality, and student selectivity. Under Stark's leadership, CMC expanded its influence in public affairs through the creation of nine public policy research institutes. In 1976, CMC marked its 30th anniversary by becoming coeducational. In 1981, CMC's name was changed to Claremont McKenna College, honoring founding trustee Donald C. McKenna. Throughout those exciting years, Jil Stark '58 GP'11, was an important presence on the CMC campus and solidified her role as a beloved first-lady of Claremont McKenna College and as Athenaeum director. Hear from Jack and Jil as they reflect on their 29-year presidency.

Listen, Learn, Lead: Behind the Scenes with CMS Student-Athletes

For the 75 years that student-athletes have been competing as Stags and Athenas, leadership development has been a central part of the competitive experience and the College’s leadership mission. Athenas and Stags are leaders in competition, the classroom, and in their careers, long after they stop competing for CMS.

We joined coaching, communication and leadership specialist, Betsy Butterick '06, and current CMS student-athletes Flora Durgerian '22 (Women’s Basketball), Leila El Masri '22 (Women’s Swimming), Sam Harrison '22 (Men’s Water Polo) and Samay Rahim '22 (Men’s Soccer) for this panel discussion on the leadership skills developed as a CMS Scholar-Leader-Athlete.

Having worked with a number of high-profile teams and organizations during her career, former Athenas basketball player and team captain Betsy Butterick '06 used her career experiences to dive into a number of topics related to leadership and athletics with the Athenas and Stags.

The Future of Post-Pandemic Work and Leadership Implications with the Kravis Leadership Institute

Founded in 1994, the Kravis Leadership Institute conducts leadership research, theory, and practice. Their mission is to develop and maximize leadership potential within the CMC community.

KLI Board members Brittany (Ruiz) Simpson '08, Michelle (Panlilio) Oden '94, John-Michael (JM) Lind '86, Daniel Kan '09 and Professor David Day discussed their views on what post-pandemic work might be like as well as the possible implications for leadership in this new world of work. The future of work is now.

Behind the Scenes at the Ath with Jil Stark '58 GP'11, Bonnie Snortum GP'20, and Priya Junnar

The overseer of one of the most popular and frequented offerings on campus comes with a responsibility unlike many others… it also comes with behind the scene stories. In this session we honored the Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum and heard from the three directors who shaped a beloved space on campus. Hear about how the Ath has evolved over the years and in what ways it has stayed the same. Jil Stark '58 GP'11, Bonnie Snortum GP'20, and current Athenaeum Director, Priya Junnar, came together for a conversation you will not want to miss.

The Pioneers: Breaking the Glass Ceiling at a Men's College

As the College transitioned to coeducation, there were bound to be bumps along the way. While many foreseen situations were planned and prepared for, there were some instances that the first women of Claremont Men’s College had to navigate all on their own.In this session you’ll hear from a panel of Pioneers as they relive some of their favorite moments and memories from those early years including reflecting on the social atmosphere, athletics, admission into a men’s college, and how those experiences shaped them post-college.

The Pioneers: Breaking the Glass Ceiling at a Men's College

As the College transitioned to coeducation, there were bound to be bumps along the way. While many foreseen situations were planned and prepared for, there were some instances that the first women of Claremont Men’s College had to navigate all on their own.In this session you’ll hear from a panel of Pioneers as they relive some of their favorite moments and memories from those early years including reflecting on the social atmosphere, athletics, admission into a men’s college, and how those experiences shaped them post-college.

A COVID Update Conversation with Trustee Dr. Tanya (Remer) Altmann '94

Dr. Tanya returned to CMC Connects for a conversation about the current COVID climate while cities around the country are opening up and returning to a new normal. She shared ways we can most safely return to the classroom or office while addressing your vaccine questions. Learn about how this mRNA vaccine works, what common side effects are, and why people are still hesitant.

The Future of American Politics with the Salvatori Center

Founded in 1994, the Kravis Leadership Institute conducts leadership research, theory, and practice. Their mission is to develop and maximize leadership potential within the CMC community.

Join KLI Board members Brittany (Ruiz) Simpson '08, Michelle (Panlilio) Oden '94, John-Michael (JM) Lind '86, Daniel Kan '09, and Professor David Day as they discuss their views on what post-pandemic work might be like as well as the possible implications for leadership in this new world of work. The future of work is now.

Gone Green - Entrepreneurship in the New York Cannabis Industry

CMC’s own Mike Zaytsev '11, business coach, best-selling author, and award-winning cannabis entrepreneur discusses the new legislation and growing opportunities within the New York cannabis industry. Learn more about how investors and entrepreneurs are exploring this new opportunity. This program is brought to you by the New York Chapter.

Presidential Initiative on Anti-Racism and the Black Experience in America: An Update with Nyree Gray, Associate Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion and Chief Civil Rights Officer

In July of 2020 President Hiram Chodosh penned a letter to the CMC community sharing a response to the issues erupting around racism in America. He introduced a new initiative bringing together representatives from the community to develop plans and actions to change and challenge the CMC way. For the last nine months committee work has been done to identify and address ways CMC can be more active in the fight against racism.

Celebrating the Management-Engineering Program with Professors Scot Gould and James Higdon, Tara Renduchintala '21, Josh Guggenheim '19, and Matias Alvarado '22

A unique but popular opportunity for students interested in combining a liberal arts education with formal training from an accredited engineering school, the 3+2 program, started at CMC in the spring of 1954, has graduated hundreds of CMC alumni.

Learn how the program has evolved over the years, including which schools are most popular amongst students today, with Matias Alvarado '22, Tara Renduchintala '21, Josh Guggenheim '19, James Higdon, Professor of Physics, and Scot Gould, Professor of Physics and program coordinator.

Lessons Learned: A Decade after the Killing of Osama bin Laden

A discussion with Former U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan, Cameron Munter and Former Acting CIA Director, Mike Morell. This event is brought to you by The Keck Center for International and Strategic Studies.

The Founding of a Men’s College in Claremont

Claremont McKenna College Archivist Sean Stanley and Ambassador-at-Large for the College John Faranda '79 presented a virtual exploration of this digital exhibition highlighting materials from the Archives’ recently processed collections. The first in a series of digital exhibitions commemorating Claremont McKenna Colleges’ 75th Anniversary, “The Founding of a Men’s College in Claremont” focused on CMC’s prehistory – touching upon the founding of Pomona College and the Claremont Colleges consortium, the twenty-year effort to establish a men’s college in Claremont, and it’s ultimate founding in 1946. Please join them as they present the story of CMC’s founding history, offer a behind-the-scenes look at the building of the exhibit, and answer questions about the Archives and its collections. Read more about Sean Stanley.

What the COVID Death Count Really Means with Dr. Andrew Schroeder, Associate Professor of Philosophy

Daily, we hear about “the” number of COVID deaths the US has seen. However, there are actually several very different ways to count COVID deaths – approaches that are based on different conceptions of what makes a death a COVID death. Dr. Schroeder discussed his recent article in Issues in Science and Technology and the various ways epidemiologists decide what counts as a COVID death. He also offered some broader reflections about science education and the role of science in policy-making.

Redistricting 2021: The Challenge of Fair Representation with Douglas Johnson '92 and Justin Levitt '06

Every ten years we hear about redistricting battles over Congress. But redistricting also happens at the state, county and local level of government. Douglas Johnson '92 and Justin Levitt '06 have been at the front lines of this process for several decades, starting at Claremont McKenna College's Rose Institute of State and Local Government and later through National Demographics Corporation, a consulting firm that specializes in this arcane process. Their talk covered the current state of the 2021 redistricting process, including how Census delays are shaping this redistricting cycle, and how redistricting offers the opportunity for any interested resident to influence the redistricting of their school district, city council, county government, state legislature and Congress. They also discussed (and taught the correct way to pronounce) redistricting's favorite bogeyman: gerrymandering.

Texas vs. California: An In-Depth Look at the Leaders of Red and Blue America with Ken Miller, the Rose Associate Professor of State and Local Government

Professor Miller discussed the common origins of Texas and California, and explained how one state has gravitated to the right and the other toward the left. In his book, Texas vs. California: A History of Their Struggle for the Future of America, Professor Miller analyzes the two states' competing policy models, their leadership role on the national stage, and their hopes for the future. To purchase a copy of Professor Miller’s book, please visit Amazon or Barnes and Noble.

Beyond Agreeing to Disagree with Professors Shields and Zuckerman

A Conservative CMC Professor, Jon Shields, and a Progressive Pitzer Professor, Phil Zuckerman, team-teach a class on free speech on college campuses, seeking to promote open dialogue, ideological diversity, and reasoned debate around various contentious issues confronting college campuses today. We joined them for a look inside their class and learn about how ideas can be challenged and respected.

The Spirit of Wine: Finding Spirituality in the Fruit of the Vine with Stephen Lloyd-Moffett '90 P'24

Stephen Lloyd-Moffett '90 P'24 has spent a career studying the religious lives of people around the globe. In this interactive session, he shared how drinking wine can contribute to a full, spiritual life. Based on over a hundred interviews on three continents, Dr. Lloyd-Moffett revealed a surprising spiritual side to the wines we drink. This was a wine tasting like no other you've attended. Stephen Lloyd-Moffett is a professor of Comparative Religion at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Most recently, he is the author of The Spirit of Wine: Finding Religion in the Fruit of the Vine (2019) and The Spirit of Winemakers: Finding Religion from the Vineyard to the Bottle (2020). It was suggested that participants open two wines for the event that were compared: a Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley in Oregon and a Pinot Noir from Sonoma Valley in California. Wine Tasting Slides

Death of a Prisoner with Bryan Dawson '89 P'18

Bryan Dawson '89 P'18, served as lead counsel in a wrongful death case where inmate Michael Barton contracted the flu at the Oregon State Penitentiary and passed away one month later. The impact of Barton’s death not only cost the state $2.75 million dollars paid to Barton's family, but also brought to light the importance and lack of inmate care. View this discussion regarding the civil rights laws that governed the federal case and hear from Bryan Dawson as he shares his investigation into Barton's death.

Econ 50 and GameStop with Professor Eric Helland, William F. Podlich Professor of Economics and George R. Roberts Fellow

Parents became young economists for the day by joining Professor Helland P'20 for an Econ 50 class designed especially for them. Learn what you need to know about GameStop and the efficient market hypothesis, as participates joined in an economic experiment using MobLab, a program designed to engage students in active learning.

Colombian Coffee Tasting: An Inside Look Into Coffee Cultivation with Leandro Galindo Giraldo

Ever wonder how a day in the life of a coffee farmer unfolds? The CMC community traveled to Bogotá, Colombia and met Leandro Galindo Giraldo. Leandro is a third-generation coffee grower and works with farmers in the region of Pitalito, to ensure their clients receive the best quality coffee at a price that is fair to not only the consumers but to the families that grow it as well. Through the course of the hour, you will learn tips on how to expertly brew your daily coffee and receive answers to questions you may have concerning your cup of joe!

Algorithmic Bias: The New Form of Discrimination with Professors Nishant Dass, Gabbrielle Johnson, Mike Izbicki, and Dr. Aaron Myers

As part of CMC’s Initiative on Anti-Racism and the Black Experience in America, the Financial Economics Institute (FEI) hosted a panel discussion on a new form of racism and discrimination in the 21st century - Algorithmic Bias. FEI director, Professor Nishant Dass, moderated the conversation on this bias with panelists Gabbrielle Johnson, assistant professor of philosophy, Mike Izbicki, assistant professor of computer science, and Dr. Aaron Myers, CTO of Suited, Inc. How does algorithmic bias work? Learn about an issue that caught the attention of computer scientists, economists, ethicists, philosophers, regulators, technologists, social workers, and many others.

Bringing Home the Trophy: Lessons Learned on the Road to Winning a National Championship

Claremont-Mudd-Scripps NCAA Division III national championship winning head coaches Paul Settles (men’s tennis), Jodie Burton (women’s golf), David Schwarz (women’s tennis) and Kurt Vlasich (volleyball) joined a panel discussion hosted by Erica Perkins Jasper, the William B. Arce Director of Athletics, Physical Education, & Recreation and George R. Roberts Fellow. Hear about the excitement and challenges their teams faced on their national championship winning journeys and the lessons they learned along the way.

A Conversation with Professor Jack Pitney

Many unprecedented events already unfolded in the new year and it was only January. There is no doubt that in the years to come, younger generations will ask us what it was like to live through these events. But even as we endlessly read, watch, and scroll, it is difficult to grasp the impact of these times. Professor Jack Pitney shares his perspective on the history we are watching unfold and how these stories will be told for generations to come. 

Finding Your Passion is Easy - Making a Living off it and Working to Improve the World is Not with Zach Weismann '08

Zach Weismann '08, founder of MAG Impact Collective, leads us through an interactive discussion on what it really means to find your passion, what to do once you've identified what you're most interested in, and how working to solve some of our world's most pressing problems requires supportive systems and new ways of thinking in order to truly support one another along the way.
In today's world, with technology and social media abound, some of the most important skills we must craft are patience and focus. Zach shares some leading tools and systems for achieving socially focused goals, helpful for those just entering the job market to seasoned professionals.

Will the American Dream Work in the 21st Century? with Professor (Emeritus) Gordon Bjork, Jonathan B. Lovelace Professor of Economics

For almost thirty years Professor Gordon Bjork inspired and challenged students by encouraging them to develop their own approaches to problem-solving, and this legacy continues at CMC through the scholarship named in his honor, the Gordon Bjork Endowed Scholarship. Watch as Professor Bjork draws from his book, The Way It Worked and Why It Won't: Structural Change and The Slowdown of U.S. Economic Growth, and hear his perspective on the American Dream and the role it plays now. Consider purchasing a copy of Professor Bjork’s book on Amazon or other book retailers.

Gardens of All Sizes: How to Create Your Own with Chia-Ming Ro '04

Chia-Ming Ro '04, a garden consultant who helps clients find innovative ways to create space for their vegetable and fruit plants, strives to reconnect people through food, healing the world one garden at a time. Her mission is to teach people to cultivate their own food, leading to an appreciation for their meals and increased food security. As we find ourselves spending more time at home, many of us have begun transforming our own spaces into gardens. Whether you have space for a kitchen garden or want to dedicate half of your backyard to plants, don't miss Chia-Ming Ro '04 as she shares tips and tricks for a successful harvest. Follow her on @coastal_homestead, where she shares advice regularly.

Adjusting Our Sails: Tillamook's Business Resilience and Community Engagement Strategy with Trevor Beltz '12 and Jack Mulder '96

In 1854, farmers from the Tillamook Valley had butter and milk to sell. However, mountain roads to Portland made for a long journey which their products would not survive. The community came together to overcome this roadblock and built the Morning Star, Oregon’s first official ship, which allowed them to sail up the coast and reach Portland efficiently. More than a century later, Tillamook Country Creamery Association continues to create ways to protect, support, and build trust within their community. This past spring, another roadblock presented itself, a global pandemic. Join the CMC community to hear from Trevor Beltz ’12, manager of government relations and public affairs, and Jack Mulder ’96, director of engineering, to learn about Tillamook’s nationally recognized community engagement strategy which puts their farmers and employees first. This program is brought to you by the Portland Chapter.

Göring's Man in Paris: The Story of a Nazi Art Plunderer with Professor Jonathan Petropoulos, John V. Croul Professor of European History

Bruno Lohse (1911–2007) was one of the most notorious art plunderers in history. He supervised the systematic theft and distribution of over 30,000 artworks, largely from French Jews, and assisted in amassing an enormous private art collection. By the 1950s, Lohse was officially denazified but back in the art dealing world, offering masterpieces of dubious origin to American museums. After his death, dozens of paintings by Renoir, Monet, and Pissarro, among others, were found in his Zurich bank vault and personal residence. Join Professor Petropoulos as he discusses how he spent nearly a decade interviewing Lohse and continues to serve as an expert witness for Holocaust restitution cases. To preorder the forthcoming book, follow this link to Amazon.

November Dreams: Perspectives on the American Dream with Professor John K. Roth, Edward J. Sexton Professor Emeritus of Philosophy

In the early 1970s, Professor John K. Roth began teaching and writing about the American Dream, resulting in a CMC course entitled “Perspectives on the American Dream.” As elusive and ambiguous as it is pronounced and persistent, the notion of the American Dream continues to draw attention, but how is it faring in 2020? Many versions of the Dream—contested and contesting—swirl through and around Election Day, Veterans Day, and the Thanksgiving holiday. Professor Roth revisits what the American Dream has been, and to consider what it can and ought to be in these fraught times.

Veterans Day Panel: Leadership Lessons Learned in Today's Military

In honor of Veterans Day, please join Claremont McKenna College and CMC ROTC alumni currently serving in the U.S. Army as we discuss the lessons they've learned in leadership. Featuring: Lindsay Burton '19, First Lieutenant, Logistics, United States Army; Hunter (Ash) Ashburn '17, First Lieutenant, Armor, United States Army; John Marshall '16, Captain, Engineers, United States Army.

A Timely Investment: Integrated Sciences & Computation at CMC

Engage in a focused discussion on how CMC is building a world-class, next-generation liberal arts and leadership program in integrated sciences and computation. Join President Hiram Chodosh, Co-Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty and Professor of Biology, Emily Wiley, Ph.D., and Vice President for Advancement and Student Opportunities, Dean of the Robert Day Scholars Program, Michelle Chamberlain to learn about this timely investment to raise the technical fluency of all CMC students, as well as its impact on our campus.

Project 20/20 and Beyond: The Collective Power of CMC’s Research Institutes

CMC’s research institutes are a unique feature, producing hundreds of faculty-student collaborations every year. Join Donald C. McKenna Professor of Government and Economics, William Ascher, Ph.D. and Co-Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty, Crown Professor of Psychology, George R. Roberts Fellow, Shana Levin, Ph.D. Burnet C. Wohlford Professor of American Political Institutions, George Thomas, Ph.D , Associate Professor of Religious Studies Esther Chung-Kim Ph.D and Podlich Family Professor of Government and George R. Roberts Fellow, Hilary Appel Ph.D to discover more about the great work conducted by CMC’s 11 institutes, their joint efforts in this academic year, and how CMC alumni, parents, and friends are integral to their success. Students will join this session to highlight cross-institute projects.

Confronting Challenges Together – How Volunteers are the ‘Secret Sauce’ of Successful Student Outcomes

In these uncertain times, internships, full-time roles, and graduate school admission are top of mind for our students. Join Director of the Robert Day Scholars Program & Scholar Communities, Beth (Saliba) Milev '05 and Director for Student Opportunity, Ursula Diamond, along with current students, to learn how the Center supports career exploration and the vital role that volunteers play in this important work.

CMC’s Response: The Presidential Initiative on Anti-Racism and the Black Experience in America

Join Associate Vice President of Diversity & Inclusion and Chief Civil Rights Officer, Nyree Gray, J.D. to discuss the newly announced Presidential Initiative and how we will work to develop a long-term, structural, integrated educational response to racism, inequality, and inequity. CMC is taking on the challenge to not just study racism, but to find effective ways to end it.

Coronavirus and College Admission

Learn how COVID-19 is impacting recruiting for the Class of 2025 with Associate Vice President for Admission and Financial Aid, Jennifer Sandoval-Dancs, from virtual recruiting and campus visits to how CMC reads files in a test-optional environment. The session will also focus on the importance of volunteers in this remote environment and how alumni and parents can help in the selection process and representing CMC in all corners of the globe.

The Future of Engagement: A Focus Group on Expanding Volunteer Contributions Across the Campus

In this final session of ImpactCMC, we will explore how coming together and giving back benefits both the institution and the individual. Join Assistant Vice President for Alumni and Parent Engagement, Evan Rutter '06 to explore these benefits and discuss the many opportunities that exist, and will exist, to engage with CMC. During this program, we will unveil the new Engage CMC platform and discuss how it will enhance our ability to connect.

Dark Towers: Deutsche Bank, Donald Trump, and an Epic Trail of Destruction A Conversation with Author David Enrich '01

In Dark Towers, author and award-winning journalist David Enrich '01, sets outs to uncover the truth about Deutsche Bank, which he argues is the world's most destructive bank. With a history of supporting the Nazi regime to its more recent work laundering money and violating international sanctions, Deutsche Bank took risks to become one of the richest banks in the world. Join David Enrich '01 for a discussion of his best-selling book. David Enrich '01 is a non-fiction author and is currently the financial editor at The New York Times.

A Reading and Conversation with Poet Henri Cole, Josephine Olp Weeks Professor of Literature

Professor Cole has published ten collections of poetry, including Middle Earth, a finalist for the Pulitzer, and received many awards for his work, including the Jackson Prize, the Kingsley Tufts Award, the Berlin Prize, the Rome Prize, the Lenore Marshall Award, and the Medal in Poetry from American Academy of Arts and Letters. Cole was inducted in the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 2017. He has also published a memoir, Orphic Paris. His most recent book, Blizzard, was published in 2020 by Farrar, Straus & Giroux.

Herbs and Roots: A History of Chinese Doctors in the American Medical Marketplace" with Tamara Venit-Shelton, Associate Professor of History

Chinese medicine has a long history in the United States, dating back to its colonial period. Well before mass emigration from China to the United States began, Chinese materia medica crossed the oceans, in both directions: Chinese medicinal teas and herbs came west while Appalachian ginseng went east. Beginning in the 1850s, Chinese immigrants came to the United States and transplanted their health practices, sometimes quite literally by propagating medicinal plants in their adopted home. Prof. Venit-Shelton's talk is based on her book which chronicles roughly two hundred years of Chinese medicine as a dynamic system of knowledge, therapies, and materia medica brought to the United States and transformed by immigrants, doctors, and patients as well as missionaries, scientists, and merchants.

Six Signs You Might Be Burning Out

Join Richard Mancuso '16 and Naveed Ahmad, co-founders of Flourish, as they discuss what burnout is, how you know you have it, and what you can do to prevent it. Life doesn't have to be characterized by feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Have a pen and paper ready, you'll be jotting down some useful advice.

CMC Rises to the Challenge Through the Years with John Faranda '79, Ambassador at Large

Claremont McKenna College, like all of society, is facing unprecedented challenges this year. Join John Faranda '79 as he explores the history of CMC through the lens of how our four presidents overcame the major challenges of their day. How did Presidents Benson, Neville, Stark, and Gann respond?

Is Democratic Change Possible in Mexico? with Roderic Camp, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus Philip M. McKenna Professor of the Pacific Rim

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO) radically changed the party system and electoral behavior in the 2018 Mexican presidential election. Despite these dramatic changes, why has Mexico been unable to transform its political system from an electoral democracy to a functional democracy? Those electoral changes, and Lopez Obrador’s presidency, will be analyzed to shed light on fundamental obstacles to a truly democratic system. 

"Veepstakes! How Candidates Choose Their Running Mates" with Professor Zachary Courser '99

From the time a presidential nominee has the ability to choose, deciding on a running mate is one of the key decisions they have to make. Political insiders agonize over making the right choice during an extended period often termed the “Veepstakes.” While there are rarely any perfect choices, the selection of a running mate is a key signal to voters and a test of a presidential candidate’s decision-making ability. Join Professor Zachary Courser '99, co-director of CMC’s Policy Lab, for a discussion of the politics and process of how presidential candidates choose their Vice Presidents. 

"Q Ball": How Basketball in San Quentin Can Lead to Rehabilitation Q&A with Writer, Director, and Executive Producer Michael Tolajian, Pat Lacey '11, and Tejas Gala '09 M'13

Featured on Netflix and Fox Sports, "Q Ball" is a documentary that brings light to the San Quentin basketball team. The film highlights the partnership with the Golden State Warriors, and follows the story of multiple San Quentin team members. Some of our very own CMS Stags participate in the league and witness, first-hand, the impact happening year after year. Join Tejas Gala '09 M'13, Pat Lacey '11, and multi-award-winning director and head of Fox Sports Films, Michael Tolajian, for a behind the scenes commentary on "Q Ball." "Q Ball" is now streaming on Netflix.

The Ethics of Scientific Modeling: A Discussion of IHME's COVID-19 Projections with Professor Drew Schroeder, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Philosophy

The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation's (IHME) COVID-19 model has, since March, been the most-discussed source of projections for the future impact of COVID-19 in the United States. Its early versions – which were used across the nation to guide policy decisions – infamously projected that the total death toll in the U.S. would end up around 60,000. As the U.S. now approaches 150,000 deaths, doesn’t that mean the model has been a massive failure? Not necessarily. Join Professor Schroeder to discuss the ethics of scientific modeling and scientific communication, which suggest that an assessment of the IHME model is considerably more complex than it might initially appear.

The Coronavirus Recession and Recovery: An Analysis of the Current Economic Situation as it Evolves with Professor Cameron Shelton and Professor Manfred Keil

Professors Manfred Keil and Cameron Shelton are back for another round of economic analysis. During this session they will discuss how the economy is still being affected by COVID-19. Has the economy bounced back? Will it suffer more blows? Professors Shelton and Keil will also look towards the future to consider how the last half of 2020 will fare. Professor Shelton is the Director of the Lowe Institute of Political Economy and Professor Keil leads the forecast group within the Lowe Institute.

A CMC Capstone: Senior Thesis Presentations

An incredible achievement and a rite of passage, CMC seniors work tirelessly each year to create a piece of scholarly work that represents their independent thought and research. Join us as three members of the Class of 2020 present their theses to the CMC community. Annette Wong '20 "Desperate for Democracy: A Comparison between Hong Kong’s Umbrella Movement and 2019 AntiELAB Protests" Annette will discuss two major anti-government protests that brought the city to a standstill. Laleh Ahmed '20 "Killing Within Communities: What Causes Collective Violence, How We Remember It, and Why It Matters" Laleh will explore motivations for violence beyond traditional explanations of ethnic hatred or racism. Max Knowles '20 "Populism: An Exploration into the American Case Through Academic Literature, Data Analysis, and Fiction" Max will discuss the rise of populism within the United States.

Recovering Silenced Voices: Finding and Telling the Histories of Enslaved People with Professor Daniel Livesay, Ph.D., Associate Professor of History

Millions of Americans suffered in slavery. Only a handful of them - Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Sojourner Truth - are recognized widely today. Historians struggle to tell the stories of enslaved individuals because they were rarely allowed to speak for themselves. This talk will focus on the lives of enslaved people who have not received much popular attention. It will explain what their day-to-day lives were like, what challenges they faced, and how they tried - and, at times, succeeded - to push back against their own oppression.

A Conversation with Governor Steve Bullock '88 P'24 In Times of a Global Pandemic

Born and raised in the "Treasure State," Governor Bullock graduated from CMC with a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). Currently in his second term as the Governor of Montana and his administration have focused on net neutrality, conservation of public lands, and availability of public education for all Montanans. He is currently a candidate for the U.S. Senate in the 2020 election.

Traversing a Different Path With a CMC Degree: A Career In Golf Journalism with Geoff Russell '84

Join us for a conversation spanning Arnold Palmer’s last competitive round, Tiger Woods’ first competitive round (sort of), the demise of print and the rise of digital, and trying to make golf work in the age of COVID-19. After graduating from CMC and earning a master’s degree in journalism from the Medill School at Northwestern University, Russell spent twenty-six years at Golf Digest magazine, twelve years at Golf World, and in 2012 became the executive editor of Golf Channel. He shared, "It wasn’t a career in law, politics or finance like most of my CMC friends and colleagues, but it’s been a wonderful journey."

In the Midst of this Moment, What Happens Now? with Nyree Gray, J.D., Associate Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion and Chief Civil Rights Officer

As we experience this moment in history, people of all races, ages, and backgrounds have united around the fight against racism and systemic inequality. Many are left asking themselves one important question: What do we do now? Join Associate Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion and Chief Civil Rights Officer, Nyree Gray, as we engage in thoughtful dialogue and discussion on where we go from here as a CMC community and as a country.

Persuasion: It's a Conversation, Not a Pitch with Professor Jay Conger, D.B.A, Henry R. Kravis Research Chair in Leadership Studies

Whether you are convincing your colleagues to support an innovation or a change or a new direction, persuasion is the foundational skill you need to possess. Getting in our way are many popular stereotypes about this activity. As Professor Conger will explain, most of these set us up for failure. At the heart of truly effective persuasion is the notion that it's a skillful conversation. In this discussion, Professor Conger will provide a practical framework and tools to help you lead these conversations with your colleagues. You'll find that more of your ideas and initiatives will see the light of day.

Trump's Democrats with Professor Jon Shields, Associate Professor of Government

While writing his book, Trump's Democrats, Shields and coauthor Stephanie Muravchik spent months living in three blue strongholds that broke for Trump. Join Professor Shields as he explains why some Democrats admire him, why they’re likely to vote for him again, and what it might mean for the future of the Democratic Party. Trump's Democrats will be released by Brookings Institution Press in September.

Critical Race Theory in International Relations and Security Studies with an Eye to Erasure and Neo-Racism with Professor Jenny Taw, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Government

While issues of race permeate global politics and always have, the main paradigms in international relations and security studies ignore race entirely, meaning that a student of those disciplines could graduate without ever thinking critically about the role of race in international interactions or in the conceptualization of security. Join Professor Taw as she will explores how this came to be the case and introduces some contemporary work challenging such erasure.

Pandemic Liberty, Big Data Privacy, and Manipulative Democracy: Outlines of a Reclamation Project with Professor Paul Hurley, Ph.D., Edward J. Sexton Professor of Philosophy

Partisanship, pandemic, and protests have stress-tested our understanding of liberty, privacy, and democracy, and we, including the courts, are failing the test. Drawing on current events, Hurley will point to some of the shortcomings in recent legal and everyday understandings of these three precious and interrelated things as a springboard both for recapturing our commitment to each of them and for appreciating why it matters so very much that we do.

Crisis Management in Local Government with Sean Elsbernd '97 and Jessica (O'Hare) Witt '00 Moderated by Ryder Todd Smith '96

Join us for a question and answer session moderated by Ryder Todd Smith '96. Featuring Sean Elsbernd ’97 and Jessica (O’Hare) Witt ’00, the group will discuss how CMC shaped their ability to succeed in local government and how to effectively manage crisis situations.

College Admission - The Pandemic and Beyond with Jennifer Sandoval-Dancs, Associate Vice President for Admission and Financial Aid

Join Jennifer Sandoval-Dancs, associate vice president for admission and financial aid, for an overview and update of the admission landscape with a focus on the Fall 2021 application cycle.

The Other Pandemic: The Opioid Litigation and the Role of Law in Public Health with Professor Eric Helland, Ph.D., William F. Podlich Professor of Economics and George R. Roberts Fellow

The opioid epidemic is a significant concern for public health officials, with more than half a million people dying from opioid overdoses since 1999. In 2018, opioid overdoses killed almost 47,000 people, and 32% of those involved prescription opioids. What caused this dramatic increase in mortality? How has the multidistrict litigation kept manufacturers, distributors, and retailers accountable? Join Professor Helland as he discusses the government’s response to this crisis and their fight against this epidemic within our court system. He will also address the partnership between CMC’s Policy Lab and the RAND Institute of Civil Justice as they examine the role of opioid litigation in public health.

Keeping Your Family Safe in the New World of Covid-19 with Dr. Tanya (Remer) Altmann '94

Dr. Tanya—as she’s known to her followers—is a frequent guest on CNN, Fox News, and shows including Live with Kelly and Ryan, The Doctors, and the KTLA 5 Morning News in Los Angeles. Join us for a conversation on ways to keep your family safe and how to best prepare while we adjust to the new normal. Come ready with questions for this interactive session. 

COVID, Impeachment, and Immigration: How Trump's Suspicion of The "Deep State" Shaped Some of the Biggest Moments in The Last Three Years with Michael Shear '90

Author and Correspondent for The New York Times

Michael Shear '90, a White House correspondent at The New York Times, leads a discussion about covering the Trump White House and how the President's disdain for the government's civil service is at the heart of his approach to the coronavirus pandemic, the actions he took that led to impeachment, and his immigration agenda.
Tony Poer '90, national sales manager for Meyer Family Cellars, Christopher Strieter M'11, founder and winegrower for Senses Wines, and Evan Rutter '06, sommelier and assistant vice president for Alumni and Parent Engagement

Sonoma or Napa? Cabernet or Pinot Noir? Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc? Watch the conversation on wine and the wine industry. 

Pandemics in the Transformation of Colonial America with Professor Daniel Livesay

The current pandemic is unlike anything we've seen in our lifetimes. However, widespread outbreaks of disease were common in the early history of the Americas. This lecture explored the ways that diseases transformed societies in the colonial period. 

Using Meditation to Create the Best Day of Your Life, Any Day You Choose

How to redirect and refocus your day with simple meditation techniques hosted by Jeff Gamer '84 and Melissa Mattern of Meditation for Regular People.

Constructing Freedom of Speech George Thomas, Ph.D., Burnet C. Wohlford Professor of American Political Institutions
Is a law that makes it illegal to engage in speech that “defames” the government unconstitutional? The Sedition Act of 1798 forced the new republic to confront the meaning of freedom of speech. Understanding one of our first great constitutional conflicts illuminates contemporary debates about constitutional interpretation and the importance of constitutional engagement by citizens.
Pandemics with Jenny Taw, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Government

A quick primer on what pandemics are and how they've played out in the recent past, with an eye to global politics and human security. 

Los Vinos de Rioja: A Tour of Spain's Celebrated Region

Watch a guided tasting and conversation by certified sommelier Sal Medina, Proprietor of Packing House Wines in Claremont, CA. 

Democracy in a Time of Crisis with Zachary Courser '99, Ph.D., Visiting Assistant Professor of Government

How will Americans be able to express their votes and how will the current pandemic reshape elections this November? Join Professor Zachary Courser, Co-Director of CMC's Policy Lab, for a discussion of how states are adapting voting during this crisis, and what these changes might mean for November. 

Crisis Leadership: Lessons From a Global Pandemic with Professor Ron Riggio P'10, Henry R. Kravis Professor of Leadership and Organizational Psychology

Professor Riggio gives an in-depth review of what experts have learned in the past decades about the key characteristics in leadership, including an exploration of leadership through a global lens in light of the pandemic. He focused on the six duties of a leader and extracted lessons from leading nations, businesses, and even families. 

The Great Depression Part II: An Analysis of the Current Economic Situation as it Evolves with Manfred Keil, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Economics and Cameron Shelton, Ph.D., McMahon Family Associate Professor of Political Economy and George R. Roberts Fellow

Professors Keil and Shelton are two macroeconomists whose research interests include the study of economic conditions of the nation and the region. Professor Shelton is the Director of the Lowe Institute of Political Economy and Professor Keil leads the forecast group within the Lowe Institute. Together they guide almost 30 students as research assistants. Part of their economic analysis relies on a consumer sentiment survey conducted by the Lowe Institute for counties in Southern California where roughly 50% of Californians reside. Join the conversation to learn about the current economic situation and projected outlooks for the near future.

Financial Planning After COVID-19 with Gary Birkenbeuel '80, B.A., Visiting Lecturer of Economics

The last few weeks have been surreal and frightening while watching a pandemic unfold rapidly across the globe. Life feels upside down. As we keep our children home from school, telecommute, and hug our grandchildren through computer screens, we hope our communal social distancing efforts are flattening the curve. The global economy and financial markets have shuddered in response. Spend an hour taking some of the worry out of your finances and learn how you can emerge healthier financially once our economy opens back up.

Maximizing LinkedIn with Erikan Obotetukudo '13

Learn how to maximize your presence on LinkedIn to deepen relationships and grow your business during crisis. 

Meditation Techniques for Insomnia & Stress with Jeff Gamer '84 & Melissa Matten, Co-Founders, Meditation for Regular People

Meditation Techniques Slides

Imagination During a Pandemic: How our Failure of Imagination Led to a Pandemic

How bad could it get? Failure to listen to experts, failure of testing, and also, failure of imagination led to this pandemic. Join Amy Kind, the Russell K. Pitzer Professor of Philosophy, as she discusses how the current pandemic revealed a collective failure of imagination. We failed to prepare because of our inability to imagine how bad things could become.

In this discussion, Professor Kind draws on her longstanding research project into imagination to discuss the current failures of imagination, what led to it, and ways to prevent it in the future. 

Opportunities to Invest in Yourself During the Pandemic - Self-Help Discussion with Laura (May) Grisolano '86

These new routines and responsibilities provide an opportunity to redefine productivity and success. Download these slides and learn new strategies to invest in yourself.
Opportunities to Invest in Yourself Slides | Opportunities to Invest in Yourself Workbook

Anxiety Relieving Strategies to Use Yourself and With Your Teams with Laura (May) Grisolano '86

Acquire new ways to combat stress and relieve anxiety while working in this new environment. Great for personal use and those who manage teams.
Anxiety Relieving Strategies Slides

How COVID-19 is Affecting Our Democracy with Professor Jack Pitney

Professor Jack Pitney discussed the effects COVID-19 is having on our democracy including the primaries, the general election, and the 2020 Census.