Spring 2025 Advanced Honors Seminars

HON 205: Interdisciplinary Investigations

Section 1: Public Education's Possibilities and Predicaments: Exploring Portrayals of Critical Issues in "Abbot Elementary"

1st 8 weeks of the semester; Tuesdays and Thursdays; 11 - 11:50 am; DeGarmo 0020B
Dr. Sara Jones; School of Teaching and Learning

Emmy-award winning TV show "Abbott Elementary,” a light-hearted "mockumentary" chronicling the day-to-day experiences of teachers in an urban elementary school, simultaneously offers critical commentary on numerous issues facing public education. From teacher shortages to funding inequities, from gifted programs to the role of the arts in schools, from relationships with students to school discipline, "Abbott Elementary" invites viewers to grapple with their own experiences with and perceptions of public schools, all while centering the humanity of students, teachers, and communities.

This seminar draws on theories and research from various disciplines to explore the critical education issues represented in "Abbott Elementary.” Students will engage with theoretical and empirical perspectives on issues and then analyze how this issue is represented in selected episodes, blending scholarly and "pop culture" perspectives.

Section 2: Libraries and Society

1st 8 weeks of the semester; Tuesdays and Thursdays; 4 - 4:50 pm; Schroeder 114
Jorgi Henson; School of Communication

In this seminar we will be investigating the historical significance of libraries and how they developed over time to the functionality of libraries in our current society. We will review technological adoption within libraries and the communicative impact of information sharing. To wrap up the course we will explore the mythos surrounding libraries and the fascination with lost libraries like The Great Library of Alexandria, but there are many others that have been lost throughout history.

Section 3: The Oppression and Criminalization of Women

1st 8 weeks of the semester; Mondays and Wednesdays; 9 - 9:50 am; Honors Program Building 113
Cristina Prestin-Beard

This seminar will explore the systemic oppression and criminalization of women. Topics will include historical and modern forced sterilization, reproductive autonomy, racial injustices, criminalized pregnancy, gender-based violence and criminalized survivors, sex workers, juvenile delinquency, personhood laws, limited access to healthcare and education, and abortion rights. This seminar will primarily focus on national issues; however, it will explore global topics such as Irish laundries, female genital mutilation, and human trafficking.  Come prepared to educate yourself and strengthen your desire to make changes for the future.

HON 207: Leadership in Action

Section 1: Intentional Leadership

1st 8 weeks of the semester; Wednesdays; 2 - 3:50 pm; Edwards 103
Angell Howard; Associate Director for Professional Development and Staff Recognition, Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs

Effective leadership transcends mere decision-making in an era of constant change; it requires intentional decisions that foster positive impacts on individuals, communities, and organizations. This transformative course invites Honors students to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth, exploring and honing their leadership potential through the prism of purposeful action and thoughtful decision-making.

Through an interactive and engaging curriculum, students will delve into the principles and practices of intentional leadership, with a special emphasis on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. By examining real-world examples, engaging in meaningful discussions, and participating in experiential learning activities, students will gain insights into how intentional leaders navigate complexities, inspire others, and drive meaningful change.

HON 208: Culture, Context, and Identity

Section 1: Shaping Narratives: Bias in Design and Media

1st 8 weeks of the semester; Tuesdays and Thursdays; 1 - 1:50 pm; Centennial East 229
Katie Krcmarik, Wonsook Kim School of Art

In an era dominated by information and visual communication, it is imperative for not just designers and media practitioners to critically examine the role of bias in shaping content and influencing perceptions. Students will explore what bias is, why our brains are wired to use bias, and how bias manifests in the design and media we encounter every day.

The course focuses on bias related to gender, race, sexuality, and ability within the realms of design and media creation. Through real-world examples, students will gain insight into how bias can impact visual narratives, messaging, overall representation, and even the design of objects we use daily. Students will discover practical steps to mitigate its influence, empowering students to minimize bias in their decision-making no matter what their future career goals might entail.

Section 2: African Atlantic Religions and Cultures

2nd 8 weeks of the semester; Tuesdays and Thursdays; 2 - 2:50 pm; Schroder 108
Dr. Greg Carter, History

Students will examine the development of culture and religions in the African diaspora as well as learn how these developed from the context of slavery to the present day. Students will explore the different ways in which these cultures have been approached, studied, or described. The seminar will include material culture, writing, music, and other perspectives and will be transdisciplinary in nature.