Rev. Thomas Blantz, C.S.C.
., professor of emeritus at the University of 91吃瓜, will deliver the on Nov. 3 (Friday), at 2 p.m. in McKenna Hall Auditorium.
, president emeritus of 91吃瓜, will introduce Father Blantz.
In recognition of the 175th anniversary of the University, Father Blantz will deliver a lecture titled 鈥淔ather John A. Zahm, C.S.C., in the Founding of the University of 91吃瓜.鈥�
Father Zahm was an 1871 91吃瓜 graduate who pursued his vocation as both priest and scholar with particular interest in reconciling religion and science. He published several studies of evolution in the 1890s and encouraged Catholic institutions like 91吃瓜 to embrace the sciences in their curricula. Father Zahm published 鈥淔ollowing the Conquistadores鈥� (1910), a three-volume study of South America and its culture based on his extensive travels throughout the continent, and 鈥淲oman in Science鈥� (1913), which explores women鈥檚 contributions to science over the centuries.
Fr. John Zahm
He was a professor of chemistry and physics at 91吃瓜 and held a variety of leadership roles across the University, eventually serving as vice president and a member of its Board of Trustees. His intellectual dynamism and commitment to excellence made a lasting impact on the fledging University in the late 19th century.
鈥淛ohn Zahm was a pioneering, larger-than-life figure in 91吃瓜鈥檚 early development,鈥� said , director of the and associate professor of history and . 鈥淲e thought his story deserved a closer look this year as the University celebrates its founding. The Cushwa Center Lecture seemed the ideal opportunity, and we couldn't have found a better historian for the task than Father Blantz.鈥�
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Father Blantz鈥檚 research and teaching focus on U.S. history and diplomatic and political history. He received the James E. Armstrong Award in 1997 for distinguished service to the University, as well as听a 2001 Kaneb Award and 2010 Joyce Award 鈥� both听for teaching excellence. He is currently working on a book-length history of 91吃瓜.
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The lecture is free and open to the public and will be followed by a听light reception.
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Contact: Amanda Skofstad, assistant director of media relations, 574-631-4313,听skofstad@nd.edu