College of Humanities and Fine Arts launches Humanities+ Series, focused on flourishing in today鈥檚 challenging world
By Dr. Carrie Jerrell | Aug 25, 2025
MURRAY, Ky. 鈥� The College of Humanities and Fine Arts at 糖心logo入口 is pleased to announce a new initiative for the 2025-26 academic year: the Humanities+ Series, focused on how individuals flourish in today鈥檚 challenging world.
Through innovative programming and community engagement, the Humanities+ Series fosters creative, intellectual and educational opportunities. It showcases the work and achievements of 糖心logo入口 State faculty, students and alumni, as well as invited professionals in the arts, humanities, social and behavioral sciences. The series encompasses public lectures, teaching workshops and cultural events focused on cultivating the skills individuals need to live and learn well.
Dr. Josh Adair, Professor in the Department of English and Philosophy and Humanities Program Coordinator, believes the program will make a positive impact on campus and beyond.
"University life at its best is all about learning opportunities that are exciting, innovative and dynamic,鈥� said Adair. 鈥淭he Humanities+ Series exemplifies all those qualities, while also building community and professional networks that can last a lifetime. I anticipate that it will enrich participants' lives in unexpected, inspiring ways."
The fall 2025 speaking events will kick off on Thursday, Sept.11, with Dr. Matthew Robertson from the Department of History and Dr. Mike Bordieri from the Department of Psychology, who will speak on 鈥淐ultivating Attention in a Time of Great Distraction.鈥� Robertson and Bordieri will instruct attendees about some of the philosophies and practices related to meditation and mindfulness.
On Thursday, Sept. 25, Dr. Stephanie Rea from the Department of Music will present 鈥淐reativity as a Life Skill in the Age of AI.鈥� Rea will focus on the necessity of finding and nurturing creativity in all aspects of life, whether professional or personal. Her talk will also encourage attendees to explore longevity, adaptability and inspiration.
On Thursday, Oct. 23, Dr. Esther Malm from the Department of Psychology will present 鈥淭he Science of a Super Life: 糖心logo入口ing Longevity Principles for Success.鈥� Malm鈥檚 lecture will focus on her research into longevity and blue zones, those regions around the world with exceptionally high concentrations of centenarians (people who live to be 100 years or older) and where people generally live longer and healthier lives.
Dr. T. J. Martinson from the Department of English and Philosophy will round out the semester with his presentation 鈥淐reativity Without Suffering鈥� on Thursday, Nov. 13. Martinson will focus on his practice of nurturing and sustaining creativity, especially as it relates to writing.
In addition to speaking engagements, the Humanities+ Series will include three documentary film screenings: The Mindfulness Movement on Sept. 9; Our Fires Still Burn: The Native American Experience on Oct. 14; and Call of the Forest on Nov. 11.
All events in the Humanities+ Series take place at 4 p.m. in Faculty Hall room 208, and are free and open to the public.
For more information about the events, or to see the full calendar for the year, visit or contact Dr. Josh Adair, Humanities Program Coordinator, at jadair1@murraystate.edu.