Concordia College

1. This year we hosted the first speaker for the Nornes Lectureship. Concordia College Alumni Stephen Wonderlich, Ph.D., delivered a keynote presentation covering his work on eating disorders. The goal of this lectureship is to bring neuroscience to non-science students and community members, as well as to enhance the experience of neuroscience students. Our event was very successful. We had a lovely dinner of approximately 50 people – students, Concordia faculty, and community professional interested in eating disorders. Following dinner Dr. Wonderlich gave an excellent lecture and we hosted attendees for a dessert reception. Approximately 200 people attended the lecture. 2. The Concordia College Neuroscience Senior Seminar class organized a “Brain Awareness Fair” for elementary and middle-school students in the Fargo/Moorhead area. This occurred on a Tuesday evening at the Moorhead Public Library. Neuroscience students created interactive and/or informative exhibits for children regarding brain awareness and health. Information for parents was also available. This event drew approximately 25 people, including some parents. Some lessons learned included having a few more activities for very young kids and also being prepared to engage the parents. While we had materials for the parents, more taking points to target parents would be valuable. 3. A week long series of informational exhibits was put on by our introduction to neuroscience class during BAW. These students shared information about neuroscience in the student center atrium during the week and were able to promote neuroscience and brain health to many students and staff.

It was a great way to draw together our neuroscience students and to have them apply their learning. The new lectureship at Concordia will provide us with an excellent opportunity to share neuroscience with the broader community.