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SUMMER SESSION 2024 COURSE LISTINGS

Click here to see the courses by hour.


ART & ART HISTORY

ARTIST’S BOOKMAKING CLASS

Carolyn McIntyre Norton, MFA, Principia College First Lady, Fine Artist
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m.

This class suits beginners as well as experienced artists. We will hand make one-of-a-kind artist’s books for journaling or sketching, with covers made from monoprints on an etching press and stitched together with colored endpapers and interior pages for writing, sketching, light watercolor, or light collage.

DRAWING & SKETCHING: THE SKETCHING JOURNAL

Leah McFall (US‘89, C‘93), MSEd, MFA, Principia College Associate Art Professor, Theatrical Designer, Costume Director
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m. 
(Art supply fee associated with this class)

How can drawing and journaling enhance your life? Come explore reflective practice with us on the beautiful Mississippi River bluffs! We will work on drawing skills like perspective, observation, shading, texture, and proportion, while drawing various historic buildings and views on the Principia campus. We will also learn ways to incorporate observation and text into our pages. Expect to leave with new ideas, enhanced skills, and a sketchbook full of great memories!

WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP  

Leah McFall (US‘89, C‘93), MSEd, MFA, Principia College Associate Art Professor, Theatrical Designer, Costume Director
Hours One and Two, 9:05–11:00 a.m.
(Art supply fee associated with this class)

Come paint for two hours every day in a beautiful river-view art studio, learning and practicing watercolor techniques with a fun, supportive community of learners! All students—beginners to experienced—are welcome. Through daily teacher-demos, practice, and sharing of feedback and ideas, everyone moves forward. Bring pieces you are working on and get inspired by new ideas! New students can learn color theory and mixing, arranging compositions, and getting the most out of this beautiful medium, while returning or advanced students can get ideas to forward their progress individually. 

PIONEERING MODERN PAINTING

Susan L. Ledbetter (C’70), MEd
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m.

During our five sessions together, we will focus on the collaborative efforts of artists: Édouard Manet/Edgar Degas, Claude Monet/Auguste Renoir, Camille Pissarro/Paul Cezanne, Vincent van Gogh/Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse/Pablo Picasso. The true give and take—the artistic dialogue—between these pairs produced a new artistic language and paved the way for generations of modern artists. What was this new “modern” phenomenon about?  What mattered to each of them? Together, we will explore the multiple points of origin of modern painting. Class includes PowerPoint lecture, film, video, hands-on art making, and discussion.


BIBLE & RELIGION

TEACHING YOUNG CHILDREN SPIRITUAL CONCEPTS    

Dorothy Halverson (C’85), MEd, Principia Early Childhood Principal
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m.

In this course, we will share engaging, hands-on, age-appropriate lessons that help the youngest Sunday School classes learn their first Bible stories and grasp spiritual concepts. If you're a Sunday School teacher, parent, or grandparent who teaches or interacts with young children, this is the course for you. 

ENGAGING WITH ADOLESCENTS BY USING SPIRITUAL CONCEPTS  

Olivia Halverson (US’16), BS
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m.

Through a “make-and-take” workshop, we will investigate how to reach adolescents in their current familiarity with Christian Science and their relationship to God. We will work together to answer: Who am I as a child of God? Why do we attend Sunday School? What does it mean to practice Christian Science? 

MARY MAGDALENE, APOSTLE OF JESUS 

Shirley Paulson (US’66, C’70), PhD
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m.

Controversy has swirled around Mary Magdalene since Bible times and continues today. Why did church leaders regard her as a repentant prostitute when historical evidence shows her to be the leading apostle of Jesus? Was it her gender or her profoundly spiritual teaching that was so challenging?

A COMPASSIONATE RESPONSE TO SOCIAL INJUSTICE AND UNEQUAL EDUCATION  

Joan Bernard Bradley (FS’99), EdD
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m.

Let’s ponder the role of compassion in addressing social injustice and whether a compassionate response is a civic responsibility. We will look at biblical examples for inspiration. For example, the Good Samaritan’s first response to the man beaten by thieves was having “compassion on him” followed by practical steps. Ellie Wiesel, a holocaust survivor, warned against indifference to injustice because it is the opposite of love. We will also look at inequities in US public education and discuss whether the Singaporean approach to education might apply here. In Singapore, the capacity of all citizens to be productive is considered a national resource, so all need a good education. 

KEY EVENTS IN CHRISTIAN SCIENCE HISTORY WITH NEW INFORMATION

Keith McNeil (C’77)
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m.

This course will look at five different events or issues in Christian Science history (one per day)—often providing little-known and/or new information—using a vast array of resources, including the Mary Baker Eddy Library, Longyear Museum, private collections, the Principia archives, and the Library of Congress. The five categories are projected to be: 1) Was Mary Baker Eddy an abolitionist? 2) What new information do we have about Mrs. Eddy’s fall in 1866 and her discovery of Christian Science? (3) Who was Phineas P. Quimby and how did he impact Mrs. Eddy? 4) Key events in the life of Mrs. Eddy as seen in a private collection 5) How was Christian Science and Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures promoted in its first decade (1867–1876)? 

BIBLICAL WISDOM FOR MAKING PEACE AND CHALLENGING VIOLENCE

Helen Mathis (C’70), MA
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m.

In this course, we will probe Biblical texts in light of Israel’s journey and Jesus’ teachings and explore the spiritual and moral resources that pertain to the complex challenges of making peace. We will also examine what wisdom for our times can be gleaned from Joshua’s battles, the prophetic role, apocalyptic expectations, redemptive and systemic violence, and Jesus’ Sermon and parables.

HOW READING ROOMS CAN ATTRACT THE PUBLIC TO UTILIZE THEIR SPIRITUAL RESOURCES 

Joan Bernard Bradley (FS’99), EdD
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m.

Let’s discuss the development of the early Reading Rooms and the activities they organized to attract the public. Mary Baker Eddy put very few restrictions on the methods of having Reading Rooms. We will also look at how some contemporary Reading Rooms successfully use special events and social media to attract the public to utilize their spiritual resources . . .  and experience healing.


CURRENT EVENTS & POLITICS

THE STATE OF DEMOCRACY IN THE WORLD

Sarah Andrews (US’03, C’07), PhD, Principia College Associate Professor of Political Science
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m.

There is evidence and concern that democracy is in decline in countries around the world. To what degree is democracy declining, what are the consequences, and what can and should be done about it? This course will consider these questions by gaining familiarity with metrics that measure the state of democracy in the world, looking at case studies of democracy in various countries, and thinking about the merits of ideas to help promote democracy.

IS THE UNIVERSE ENTIRELY MENTAL?

Matthew Cocks, PhD, Principia College, Assistant Professor of Economics
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m.

In a 2005 essay in the prestigious scientific journal Nature, physicist Richard Conn Henry argued that “the Universe is entirely mental.” The proposition that reality is fundamentally experiential has a long history, but over recent decades has been almost entirely forgotten by the academic community and wider public. However, the idea is currently being revisited by some notable scientists and philosophers. This course will review the history of the philosophical position that the Universe is mental in nature and the empirical evidence underpinning its present return to intellectual discussion.

A SHORT HISTORY OF MODERN ISRAEL

John W. Williams (C’76), JD, Principia College Political Science Professor, Former College President
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m.

The Israel-Hamas war, centered in Gaza, has refocused the world’s attention on the Middle East and Israel. This course is a refresher (or introduction) to the history, geography, political structures, and participants in the struggle for territory, identity, and recognition in Palestine. We will start with the Balfour Declaration of 1917, announcing British support for a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine, jump to the creation of the State of Israel in 1948, and move quickly to events of the past 12 months. Our goal is to understand basic facts and issues that provide context for reading about current events.


COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE    

Clinton Staley (C’80), PhD, Principia College Professor of Computer Science
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m.  

This course is an introduction to modern artificial intelligence (AI) for nontechnical students. We'll learn how to use "generative AI" like ChatGPT and DALL-E. We'll also cover new AI that doesn't make the news as much and explore the philosophical implications of AI. 

IPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY

Jon Hosmer (US’88, C’92), MALD, Principia Web Director
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m.

Our iPhones have several high-quality cameras ready for us to use and to master. We will start by taking quick and simple photos and learn how to share them. We will then explore all the photography features your iPhone has to offer, including selfies, portraits, slow-motion videos, and more. We will take our time and always make room for questions and practice; the features are only useful if we’re willing to use them and they meet our needs. It’s alright if we don’t have the newest iPhone. We will make the most of what we have, and discuss what’s new so we’re a better-informed consumer.


HISTORY, FILM & LITERATURE

DAVID MCCULLOUGH: A TRIBUTE  

Howard Bay (US’69, C’73), MA, retired Principia School Social Studies Teacher
Richard Waller (C’76), MA, Principia School Social Studies Teacher

Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m.

“History matters. That’s what I’ve tried to convey. It’s essential to understand our nation’s story, the good and the bad, the high accomplishments and the skullduggery,” states David McCullough. Winner of two Pulitzer Prizes for his biographies of Adams and Truman and two National Book Awards as well as the Presidential Medal of Freedom, McCullough’s writing reveals his exceptional gift for animating history. Join us for five engaging sessions as two Principia history teachers pay tribute to America’s master storyteller.

READING ABRAHAM LINCOLN 

Brandon James O’Neil (C’16), PhD, Principia College Visiting Faculty
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m.

In 1832, Abraham Lincoln launched an unsuccessful bid for the Illinois General Assembly and proclaimed that he had no greater ambition than "that of being truly esteemed of my fellow men, [and] by rendering myself worthy of their esteem.” Over the next 33 years, he more than earned the estimation of his compatriots, eventually leading the United States through the tumult of the Civil War. In this course, students will encounter Lincoln—as a man and a leader—through his extensive written works, including speeches, private letters, and official documents. Along the way, you will also meet some of the men and women who moved in Lincoln's circle and "listen in" on the messy and heated conversations of the U.S. Civil War.

INVENTING JOHN WAYNE 

Clark Beim-Esche (C’71), MA, retired Principia School English, Fine Arts, Film Teacher
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m.

"Duke" Morrison led an extraordinary life. His greatest achievement was his invention of a character he created on film who made an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of millions: John Wayne. Five chapters of his life's journey tell a fascinating tale of desire, defeat, determination, dedication, and, finally, unparalleled success.

UNDERSTANDING REVOLUTION  

Peter van Lidth de Jeude (C’04), PhD, Principia College Associate History Professor and Assistant Dean of Academics
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m.

For over four centuries, people have referred to massive political and social upheavals as "revolutions." But where did this term come from and what makes for a revolution? In this course we will look at what constitutes a revolution, how some of the key revolutions like the American Revolution and the French Revolution played out, and look to understand this term and phenomenon more clearly.

LINCOLN’S QUESTION

John Lyon (US’63, C’67), retired Principia College staff
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m.

Can any nation dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal long endure? This class will tackle that question by studying the language of the Gettysburg Address, the Declaration of Independence, and the U.S. Constitution; by contrasting the difference between democracy and autocracy; and by discussing what is required to maintain an enduring government of the people, by the people, for the people. 

110 YEARS AGO: THE START OF THE GREAT WAR 

Richard Waller (C’76), MA, Principia School Social Studies Teacher
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m.

110 years ago saw the beginning of what, at the time, was the greatest conflict that had faced mankind. Nobody involved in the slide towards war had any idea what they were unleashing, nor that the war would bring to an end 400 years of the world revolving around Europe. This course will look at how this disaster came to be, how it might have been prevented, and how the earlier months set the groundwork for the years that were to come.

CLOAK AND DAGGER WOMEN OF WORLD WAR II: BREAKING THE GLASS CEILING OF INTELLIGENCE ORGANIZATIONS 

Richard Crandell (C’82), BA
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m.

This course will examine the pioneering role that women played in Allied intelligence organizations during World War II. For the first time, women were given the same training and opportunities as men to act as secret agents and paramilitary fighters. Their success led to opportunities that were previously unavailable to women.

SIX LEGENDS OF THE WEST: FROM CAROLINA TO CALIFORNIA  

Jeffrey Steele (FS’01), PhD, Principia College Professor of Multidisciplinary Studies
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m.

This course will focus on six important figures in the history of the United States as it expanded to the west: Daniel Boone, David Crockett, Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, Tecumseh, and Christopher Houston "Kit" Carson. We’ll spend each class day examining the highlights and impact of these "heroes" of the American frontier. Was the truth of their experiences accurately captured by the dime novels and biographies of their day, or was there more to their stories? Let's explore together.


MUSIC

LOVE IS IN THE AIR: ROMEO AND JULIET AS PORTRAYED IN MUSIC    

Marie Jureit-Beamish (HON’14), PhD, Principia College Professor Emerita of Music
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m.

One of the greatest love stories ever penned by man, Shakespeare's iconic Romeo and Juliet has inspired countless musicians since 1594 with its timeless story of two young people falling in love amidst the violent world surrounding them. This quintessential story of young love comes to life while two warring families—the Capulets and Montagues—fight to no end. Capturing the imagination of Berlioz's and Tchaikovsky's symphonic masterpieces and Prokofiev's powerful ballet, the story still has profound messages for all in the most recent Spielberg adaptation of Bernstein's legendary musical, West Side Story. This timeless theme is the perfect marriage of theatre and music with profound musical and emotional impact.

“AN AMERICAN IN PARIS” – THE LIFE AND WORKS OF GEORGE GERSHWIN  

Marie Jureit-Beamish (HON’14), PhD, Principia College Professor Emerita of Music
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m.

One of the greatest masters of American popular songs, George Gershwin (1898–1937) stands apart from all other composers of his time with such greats as "Rhapsody in Blue," "An American in Paris,” "Porgy and Bess," to name but a few. His many famous songs such as "Embraceable You," "I Got Rhythm," and "Someone to Watch Over Me" secured him a place forever as one of the greatest American geniuses of the 20th century. Your heart is guaranteed to sing with joy!

THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK  

Brian Pappas, BA
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m.

We will explore the history of the Great American Songbook through short lectures and performances of the many wonderful songs from the early to middle 20th century. Emphasis will be on certain composers/songwriters—Gershwin, Porter, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Johnny Mercer—as well as famous performers such as Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, Al Jolson, and Doris Day to name a few.

CHOIR

Joe Van Riper (C’05), PhD, Principia College Professor of Music
Hour Six, 4:25–5:15 p.m.

“Today my soul can only sing and soar.” —Mary Baker Eddy. The Summer Session Choir welcomes all attendees to experience the joy of music making in a supportive, close-knit choral setting. Regardless of your musical background or level of experience, all are encouraged to take part in the joy of music making. Don't miss out on this extraordinary musical adventure!


READING, WRITING & SPEAKING

STORIES THAT MIRROR LIFE     

Linda Conradi (C’65), MLA
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m.

Books can reveal universal truths and life lessons as glimpsed in these linked reads: Thornton Wilder's 1938 play, Our Town and Ann Patchett's 2023 novel, Tom Lake. Inspiration for this pairing comes from Patchett's author's note at the end of Tom Lake where she encourages readers to read Our Town, a play that she says "has been an enduring comfort, guide, and inspiration" throughout her life. Read the play and then the novel in advance, and come prepared to share your observations, insights, and questions in class discussions. 

SOULFUL EXPRESSION: COMMUNICATING WITH FREEDOM AND POWER   

Chrissy Calkins Steele (FS’08), MFA, Principia College Professor of Theatre
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m.

Would you like to speak with greater expression, freedom, and power? Whether reading in church, telling a story, or giving a presentation, your voice and body communicate meaning.  We will use poetry, psalms, hymns, and Bible stories to practice skills to communicate more clearly and expressively, expanding your Soulful expression.

INTRODUCTION TO AUDIOBOOK NARRATION

Emily Ellet (C’08), BA
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m.

If you've ever thought, "I wish I could narrate audiobooks," then this is the class for you! An award-winning narrator and producer, Ellet will discuss the current audiobook industry and provide personalized coaching on a book of your choice. This course is great for first and second readers at church and family story time readers alike!


SCIENCE

THE BIRDS OF PRINCIPIA: BIRD WALKING AND LAB STUDY

Scott Eckert (C’79), PhD, Principia College Professor of Biology and Natural Resources
Early Bird 6:30–7:45 a.m. – Bird Walk
Hour One 9:05–9:55 a.m. – Lab Study

This course is designed to introduce you to the biology and ecology of birds, as well as how to observe and enjoy this wonderful group of animals. The course structure is designed so that we can spend time outside identifying and observing birds as well as learning about their biology and ecology in a classroom setting. Each day will begin with a bird walk on or near campus during the Early Bird time slot followed by lectures and/or hands-on lab in the zoology classroom during Hour One.


SPORTS & FITNESS

TRAIL WALKING  

Robert Baker (C’78), retired Principia College Head Track and Field Coach
Early Bird, 6:30–7:20 a.m.

Journey with us for daily walks on campus as well as the surrounding area. Routes will include Elsah, Snyder’s Barn, and Eliestoun. During our walks, we will explore the history of the campus with a focus on Maybeck buildings.

TENNIS FOREVER AND FOR EVERYONE  

Shannon Carney, MAEd, USPTA Elite Professional, PTR Professional, Principia College Head Women’s Tennis Coach
Early Bird, 6:30–7:20 a.m.

Beginning to advanced players will learn and improve their technique, skills, and strategy through drills and point play. This course meets players at their current level and advances them from there. We’ll cover tennis grips and strokes, shot selection and placement, strategy for singles and doubles, proper footwork, movement and balance, tennis etiquette, and how to think metaphysically about tennis. Please come with your tennis shoes (no black soles). Bring your racket or use one of ours.

STRETCH YOURSELF

Ann Pierson (FS’99), MEd, Principia College Director of Athletics
Early Bird, 6:30–7:20 a.m.

Learn and utilize different types of stretching in a relaxing environment with peaceful music. It’s a great way to get your day going. Stretch Yourself was designed to work daily on flexibility and freedom of movement. Students will develop a connection to Christian Science concepts that support physical activity. Sessions will cover several different ways of working on increased flexibility, including dynamic stretching, yoga-style stretching, and more. Class members will also work daily on balance, with many opportunities to grow more confident through simple yet fun physical activities.

AQUABLAST!

Ann Pierson (FS’99), MEd, Principia College Director of Athletics
Hour Six, 4:25–5:15 p.m.

This pool-based group class will keep you moving in a buoyant environment against the backdrop of a fun playlist of music. We will incorporate noodles and swim belts for mobility, strength, and cardio exercises in the pool.

PICKLEBALL FOR ALL!  

Shannon Carney, MAEd, USPTA Elite Professional, PTR Professional, Principia College Head Women’s Tennis Coach
Hour Six, 4:25–5:15 p.m.

Beginners to advanced, let's play pickleball! Learn to play or improve your pickleball game. We will learn drills, skills, tactics, rules, and history of the game. Bring your paddle or use one of ours.

Recreational drop-in pickleball offered 6:30–7:20 a.m. daily in Hexberg Tennis Center.

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