Courses by Category

Below are the courses offered Summer 2019.

Art & Art History
Bible & Religion
Business, Current Events & Politics
Computer & Technology
Engineering & Science
History & Film
Music
Reading, Writing & Speaking
Sports & Fitness

Art & Art History

Drawing and Sketching

Leah McFall, MSEd, MFA
Theatre professor/costume and set designer
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m., Two-week course
(art supply fee associated with this class)

Keeping a sketching journal is a wonderful way to enrich your travels or just take a more reflective approach to daily living. We will work on a variety of drawing skills, including perspective, observation, shading, texture, and proportion, while learning from the sketching journals of some of history’s great artists. We will enjoy the view from Principia’s beautiful Voney Art Center on the bluffs, as well as its state-of-the-art classrooms and shared spaces. Expect to leave with new ideas, enhanced skills, and a sketchbook full of great memories!

Matisse and Picasso

Susie Ledbetter, MEd
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m., One-week course
Week Two only

Matisse Picasso, a 2003 landmark exhibition at New York’s Museum of Modern Art, was dedicated to the lifelong dialogue between two of the most important artists of the 20th century. Struck by each other’s genius ever since they met in 1906, each recognized the other to be his only true rival and measure of his success. Matisse Picasso tells the compelling story of two artists who were driven to ever higher levels of accomplishment by looking at and learning from one another for nearly half a century. And despite their personal differences, they were closer in spirit than any other two artists of that time. We’ll learn how Matisse Picasso not only confirms the artists’ status as giants of their time but also offers previously unexplored insights into the complex personal and artistic relationship that defined the standards for painting in the 20th century.

Watercolor Workshop

Leah McFall, MSEd, MFA
Theatre professor/costume and set designer
Hours One and Two, 9:05–11:00 a.m., Two-week course
(art supply fee associated with this class)

Would you love to spend two hours every day in a beautiful, light-filled space—overlooking the bluffs of the Mississippi—learning and practicing watercolor techniques with a fun, supportive community of learners? If so, join us in our Watercolor Workshop. Students will range from beginners to experienced. All are welcome! Through daily teacher-demos, practice, and sharing of feedback and ideas, everyone moves forward. Bring pieces you are working on, or get inspired on location. This class is tailored to meet the goals and learning needs of each student!

Bible & Religion

A Divine Round Trip in the Gospel of John

Susan Humble, PhD
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m., One-week course
Week One only

In this study of the Gospel of John, you will discuss Dr. Humble’s book A Divine Round Trip: The Literary and Christological Function of the Descent/Ascent Leitmotif in the Gospel of John, examining its primary theme and how it influences the meaning of other important themes in his gospel. We will utilize a new literary way of reading John, allowing a better understanding of why it is considered a “spiritual gospel.”

Biblical Inspiration for Today

Barry Huff, PhD, ThM, MTS
Religion professor
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m., One-week course
Offered each week

Explore the healing relevance of the Bible to our world today. From Genesis to Revelation, we will discover biblical inspiration for our healing ministry, our embrace of the marginalized, and our prayers and care for the environment. Psalms empowers us to pray and sing to God through every moment and experience of life. A conversation with the Apostle Paul will apply his letters to churches and communities in antiquity and today. Together, we will discuss and grow in our appreciation and understanding of the Bible's awe-inspiring relevance to our lives and world.

I Corinthians: Paul's Message Then and Its Relevance Today

Anne Cooling, CS
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m., One-week course
Week One only

Join us to explore Paul’s message in I Corinthians. We will read together in class, covering one to two chapters daily. We’ll explore the background of Paul’s text and consider its relevance to today.

Explore Your Bible

Blair Lindsay, JD
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m., One-week course
Week Two only

This course uses familiar Bible stories and passages as a way of exploring how to read the Scriptures as they might have been understood by the men and women for whom they were written. We will explore, for instance, how the story of Jonah has far less to do with a whale than it does with contrasting Jonah’s relative unfaithfulness to God with the righteousness of the non-Jews in the story. In similar ways, we will learn to read some of the familiar stories about David and others through the fresh eyes of the original audience. By learning to read Bible stories and passages as if we were the original audience for whom they were written, we can glean previously unseen truths from our study.

Healing and Gender in Bible Times

Shirley Paulson, PhD
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m., One-week course
Week Two only

Join us to explore two lesser-known early Christian texts that highlight power struggles among diverse groups of Jesus’ followers. The Gospel of Thomas and the Dialogue of the Savior shed light on the reasons that women and healing were and are so often connected in Christian communities.

Old Testament Highlights

Barry Huff, PhD, ThM, MTS
Religion professor
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m., Two-week course

Discover new insights into the healing messages of the Hebrew Bible by learning about its texts and contexts. Through interactive lectures, you’ll experience highlights from the 36 Old Testament courses that Dr. Huff has taught at Principia College. Explore when specific books were written and why that matters. Trace the development of authors’ concepts of God from national warrior to universal mother. Hear the prophets’ call for justice. Stand in awe as God creates, liberates, guides, supplies, comforts, restores, reveals, and heals. Feel the infinite embrace of God’s steadfast love!

Romans: Paul's Thought-Provoking and Most Theological Letter

Anne Cooling, CS
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m., One-week course
Week Two only

The book of Romans culminates Paul’s 30-year ministry as his most throught-provoking and challenging letter. In different ways, it shaped the foundations of a number of Protestant sects. As his most theological treatise, Paul shares what he has learned in spreading the Word and nurturing churches. His letter combats sin and moves theology from a law-based salvation to grace and the power of Spirit.

Teaching Spiritual Concepts to Young Children

Dorothy Halverson, MA
Principia’s Acorn director
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m., One-week course
Week One only

Have you ever wondered how to share spiritual concepts with young children and help them understand and apply some of the lessons taught through favorite Bible stories? In this course, we will look at a few of the first Bible lessons and stories often taught to young children, and we’ll explore age-appropriate techniques and hands-on activities that help children grasp their meaning. Materials will be provided for a "make-and-take" workshop-style class. The lesson ideas are geared toward two- to six-year-olds. If you're a Sunday School teacher, parent, or grandparent who interacts with young children, you won't want to miss this course.

Ten Windows into the First 500 Years of Early Christianity

Helen Mathis, MA
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m., Two-week course

This course will explore the stages of the early Christian story to identify and track the issues, questions, conflicts, paradigm shifts, and models that emerged. We’ll discuss how they speak today to Christian discipleship, spirituality, ethics, organization, community, and mission and how we situate ourselves in the wider Christian Church and vernacular.

The Letter of James

Susan Humble, PhD
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m., One-week course
Week Two only

James is a well-respected New Testament “wisdom” book. We will explore who scholars believe James was and his possible role in the early Church. Additionally, we will consider the themes of the letter in detail, explore why this letter is considered a “wisdom” book, and ponder the lessons we learn from our study.

The Translation Story of the Early English Bible

Helen Mathis, MA
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m., One-week course
Offered each week

Beginning with the Greek Septuagint and New Testament writings, we’ll journey through earliest manuscripts to the Latin Vulgate, Erasmus’s Greek “textus receptus,” and all the English translations built on Tyndale’s work. We’ll compare modern translations and the range of Greek word-meanings, tour Principia's Bible collection, and learn how translators translate.

Business, Current Events & Politics

Finding Solutions through Empathy: Design Thinking for Business and Beyond

Lucia De Paz, MBA
Business professor
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m., One-week course
Week One only

We all have the creativity to generate meaningful change. What should change look like? How can we approach change with humility? Design thinking is an important tool used in businesses for innovation and new product development. In fact, it is widely used in many disciplines for problem solving. Through diverse interactive projects, we will explore the empathetic approach to issues, leading us to humbling solutions and meaningful change.

Life After Brexit: The Future of the EU and the UK

Brian Roberts, PhD
Political science professor
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m., Two-week course

Barring unforeseen events, in March 2019 the United Kingdom will no longer be part of the European Union. This class will review factors that set this breakup in motion, examine terms of the exit agreement, and explore the implications of Brexit for the future of the EU and UK.

Race & Ethnicity

Billy Miller, PhD, JD
Sociology professor
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m., Two-week course

“Race” is a human invention—a social construction—and is not biologically real. Therefore, it is not innate to humankind. Only when we behave as if race is real do we engage in racism. Consequently, this course begs the question, why do we behave as if “race” is a reality?

The Evolution of Presidential Communication in the Modern U.S. Presidency: From Fireside Chats to Tweets

Brian Roberts, PhD
Political science professor
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m., Two-week course

The president is the only elected official who represents the entire American populace. We will explore the evolution of the communication mediums modern presidents have used in an attempt to persuade citizens, and we’ll analyze the objectives, challenges, and implications associated with these efforts. We’ll also discuss insights from recently completed archival research.

Peacemaking, Mediation & Dispute Resolution 101

Jeff Steele, PhD
Multidisciplinary professor and coach of Principia’s mediation team
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m., Two-week course

This class introduces students to resolution techniques with a specific focus on mediation. You’ll learn deep reading, critical thinking, evaluation of data, and detailed nuances of interpersonal communication, persuasion, and negotiation. True peacemaking brings parties together in a non-adversarial atmosphere using language and forms that demonstrate impartiality, confidentiality, creativity, and flexibility. The goal is harmonious resolution.

Computer & Technology

Navigating Social Media

Jon Hosmer, MALD,
Principia’s web director
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m., One-week course
Offered each week

We will begin with an overview of social media products and trends, noting who uses it, why, and how. We will explore Facebook and Instagram in more detail because of their popularity with our friends and family, and we’ll discuss best practices for setting up accounts and security in social media. The intent of this course is to broaden our view of social media in the world today and to address specific questions for social media users. There is no pressure to start using social media—the goal is to be better informed about it. This course is taught in a computer lab, but you may use your own device, and you’re not required to use a computer.

Outsmart Your Smartphone

Jon Hosmer, MALD
Principia’s web director
Hour Five, 3:20- 4:10 p.m., One-week course
Offered each week

Whether you’re seeking to fill a few knowledge gaps or feeling completely lost with your smartphone or tablet, we will cover the essentials and more. Class will start with the basics of setup and use of a phone (or tablet). Then we will look through features including texting, email, the calendar, photography, videos, maps, music, games, and social media. We will discuss other functions, such as protecting and backing up your information and managing storage on your device. There will be time each day for questions.

Engineering & Science

Dive into 3D Printing!

Marie Farson, PhD
Engineering professor
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m., One-week course
Week Two only

Join a community of 3D-printing enthusiasts to find out more about 3D printing. This class will include a discussion of how 3D printing has revolutionized entrepreneurship and industry in developing countries as well as in the United States. We will dissect a 3D printer to learn how it works, use it to print objects, and explore design software to create and print your own designs. We’ll explore how to make everything from replacement bits and pieces for household repairs to fascinating gadgets.

Introduction to Astronomy

David Robertson, MS
Physics and math professor
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m., Two-week course

This class addresses the most fundamental topics in astronomy. We will begin with an introduction to the night sky, including the constellations, phases of the moon, and movement of the stars and planets. You will gain a historical perspective on astronomy as we discuss the ancient Greek conceptions of the heavens and the Copernican revolution. You will also gain an understanding of the sun, comets, asteroids, and the lifecycles of stars and learn about such grand celestial objects as galaxies, black holes, and neutron stars. We will learn how a simple telescope works and explore modern telescopes such as the Hubble Space Telescope and the Chandra X-Ray Observatory. The class will conclude with a discussion of Hubble's Law and its implications for the evolution of the universe. The class format will involve short interactive lectures, demonstrations, discussion, and photos and animations. We’ll also explore the night sky during observing sessions at Principia’s telescope.

Planets of Our Solar System and Beyond

David Robertson, MS
Physics and math professor
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m., One-week course
Week One only

In the last 50 years, humanity has gathered unprecedented images of the planets, moons, comets, and asteroids via a multitude of unmanned space probes. In this class, we will discuss these missions, view the images from the probes, and explore what these photos imply about the nature of Earth's nearest neighbors in the cosmos. We will travel from the scalding surface of Venus to the rings of Saturn and the frozen wastes of Pluto. (This is a particularly favorable time given the recent New Horizons mission to the Pluto-Charon system.) We will discuss recent discoveries of planets beyond the solar system, called exoplanets, and the potential that these planets might harbor life. Classes will involve a combination of short interactive lectures, demonstrations, photos and animations, and discussion. We’ll also explore the night sky during observing sessions at Principia’s telescope right on campus.

History & Film

A Presidential Surprise Party

Clark Beim-Esche, MA
Retired English/fine arts teacher
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m., Two-week course

Having traveled to the homes and libraries of all our nation’s past presidents, Clark and Carol Beim-Esche are often asked, “Which president or presidential site surprised you most?” “There is no one answer,” they say. “For we have encountered many surprises as a result of our visits and research.” In this class, Clark will share some of the most memorable surprises. Which presidents will be covered? Well, that’s a surprise! Sometimes humorous, sometimes inspiring, and always unexpected, each day’s class will leave you with a deepened respect for and fascination with the presidents being discussed, as well as fun stories to share with friends. Through this exploration you, too, will find yourself surprised to learn more about even some of our most well-known chief executives.

Calling All History Buffs

Howard Bay, MA
Retired social studies teacher
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m., Two-week course

Are you a history buff? This class will introduce you to the historian’s favorite game—counterfactual or “what if” history. History professors have long known that asking what could have happened or what almost did or did not happen can make the story of what actually DID occur come alive. What if Washington had been captured by the British in the Revolutionary War? What if Lincoln had not been reelected president in 1864? What if the Allies had reached Berlin before the Russians in 1945? Let’s break down these—and other—critical moments in American history as we try to conceive of the impact on our past, present, and future if things had happened differently than they did.

Daniel Boone: Frontiersman, Legend

Jeff Steele, PhD
Multidisciplinary professor
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m., Two-week course

A complex man, Daniel Boone symbolized the character of the 18th-century North American frontier in his intentions, accomplishments, and life experience. This course examines the facts about his life and times—and debunks some of the legends.

Finding the Falcon

Clark Beim-Esche, MA
Retired English/fine arts teacher
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m., Two-week course

When Dashiell Hammett penned The Maltese Falcon in 1929, he knew he had a hot property on his hands, so he was not surprised when Warner Brothers Studio purchased the rights to his popular novel. The resultant film, the first cinematic Falcon, appeared in 1931. Then, in 1936, Warner Brothers released a slightly modified retelling of the novel, starring Bette Davis. So why and how did the studio give the green light in 1941 to a first-time director, John Huston, for yet a third retelling of the story? And, more importantly, why is this third Falcon, rather than its predecessors, widely recognized today as a Hollywood classic? Join a lively discussion as we study all three of these film versions of The Maltese Falcon and discover the various elements that, when taken together, resulted in creating a masterpiece.

Forging a Nation: Causes and Effects of the U.S. Civil War

Peter van Lidth de Jeude, PhD
History professor
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m., Two-week course

In this class, we will explore the complicated causes of the Civil War, looking at the words of both advocates of secession and common soldiers. We will look at the tremendous impact the war had in forging disparate states into a unified country with a common culture. Beyond the legendary figures and the famous battles, the Civil War was a seminal moment in the history of the United States, and we will look at how it came to be and how it was, in the words of famous Civil War historian James McPherson, “the war that forged a nation.”

The American Civil War: 1864

Rich Waller, MA
History teacher
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m., Two-week course

Following the great Northern victories of 1863 at Gettysburg, Vicksburg, and Chattanooga, Ulysses S. Grant planned a coordinated Northern offensive for 1864. The primary campaigns developed around offensives in Virginia (Grant’s Overland Campaign directed at Richmond and the corresponding Union effort to control the Shenandoah Valley) and the capture of Atlanta (Sherman’s Atlanta Campaign). Other significant factors include the crucial presidential election of 1864 and Sherman’s March to the Sea. We’ll explore these fascinating events toward the end of the American Civil War.

The Eloquent Mr. Lincoln: The Wit, Wisdom, and Remarkable Speeches of Abraham Lincoln

John Lyon
Media Services Center director
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m., Two-week course

Abraham Lincoln used words to inspire, mobilize, persuade, console, uplift, amuse, and make people think. This class will examine Lincoln's best-known writings, giving special attention to the Gettysburg Address, and examples of his wit and wisdom. We will thoughtfully consider what made Lincoln a great leader and a great man.

The “War to End All Wars”?—The Great War and Its Legacies

Peter van Lidth de Jeude, PhD
History professor
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m., Two-week course

We will look at how World War I transitioned from a small family squabble into an unprecedented conflict, whose participants hoped their sacrifices would end all future wars. We will also see how WWI ended the 19th-century world that preceded it and laid the groundwork for the 20th century to follow—from World War II to the Cold War and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

World War II: 1944

Richard Waller, MA
History teacher
Hour Two, 10:10–11:00 a.m., Two-week course

The class will consider the momentous events of 75 years ago—the penultimate year of World War II. We will focus particularly on D-Day and the subsequent Battle of Normandy and on the great naval battles in the Pacific theater—the Philippine Sea and Leyte Gulf. We will also cover the Allied victories in Eastern Europe, Italy, and Burma.

Music

Choir

Joe Van Riper, PhD
Music professor
Hour Six, 4:25–5:15 p.m., Two-week course

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord! Come share your love of singing by participating in the Summer Session choir. This ensemble will offer a wonderful experience for community collaboration and joyous musical expression.

Great Festivals of Music Come to Principia!

Marie Jureit-Beamish, PhD
Professor emerita of music
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m., Two-week course

"Pack your bags" and bring along your enthusiasm for totally immersing yourself in some of the greatest music of all time. You will get to attend some of the most famous summer music festivals of 2019—right from the comfort of your classroom chair! Highlighting exceptional performers and music from the festivals of Lucerne, Salzburg, Verbier, and Bayreuth, Dr. Jureit-Beamish will guide you through some of the outstanding programs scheduled in 2019. It promises to be a “feast of Soul” (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 263) that will inspire all of us to lift our consciousness to greater heights through the beauty of music.

The Musical Wizardry of Film Score Composer John Williams

Marie Jureit-Beamish, PhD
Professor emerita of music
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m., Two-week course

Not only is John Williams known as the most famous composer of soundtracks in modern times, but his career as a conductor, composer, and educator has had an impact on the lives of millions of people over the last 60 years. Just imagine these extraordinary films without music—Star Wars, Schindler's List, Empire of the Sun, Lincoln, War Horse, Sabrina, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and Goodbye, Mr. Chips—to name but a few! It is in fact Williams's music, filled with drama and emotion, that brings an unfolding plot to life, establishes mood, and advances the action of great collaborations with the likes of Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, Sydney Pollack, and Ryan Jackson. An endless well of creativity, Williams tells the whole story through music. Each of his works is a unique masterpiece deservedly ranked among the highest musical achievements of our time. His grand accomplishments have proven his own words: "So much of what we do is ephemeral and quickly forgotten, even by ourselves, so it's gratifying to have something you have done linger in people's memories."

Reading, Writing & Speaking

Hooked on Books: The Lure of Reading

Linda Conradi, MLA
Hour Four, 2:15–3:05 p.m., Two-week course

Reading immerses us in worlds without boundaries and grounds us in the familiar. How does reading books inspire us to connect the dots of universality? Join a roundtable discussion that will focus on the following works, best read in advance to be prepared to share:
Week One (fiction): Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Week Two (nonfiction): Leonardo da Vinci by Walter Isaacson

Soulful Expression: Communicating with Freedom and Power

Chrissy Calkins Steele, MFA
Theatre professor
Hour Five, 3:20–4:10 p.m., Two-week course

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, confidence, and presence. Enjoy speaking poetry and singing hymns and folk songs with greater expression and freedom in this experiential, low-key class. Practice skills to communicate more clearly and expressively, expanding your soulful expression.

The Transformative Power of Shakespeare

Chrissy Calkins Steele, MFA
Theatre professor
Hour Three, 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m., Two-week course

Experience the joy and power of speaking Shakespeare’s timeless words yourself, and learn how the power of the “immortal Shakespeare, great poet of humanity” (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 66) has transformed the lives of prison inmates, war veterans, refugees, inner-city children, and many others. This class will explore the actor’s approach to understanding and speaking Shakespeare’s sonnets and plays and uncover the power of the Bard in individual lives and communities.

Writing: Journal Your Journey

Linda Conradi, MLA
Hour One, 9:05–9:55 a.m., Two-week course

Create a journal of some aspect of your lifetime journey. It can be about actual travel or the armchair variety of quiet reflection and inner milestones. We will write in class and read excerpts of published travel writing. Bring photos or artwork if you would like to illustrate your journal.

Sports & Fitness

Aquablast!

Heather Fairbanks
College sports information director, assistant volleyball and beach volleyball coach
Hour Six, 4:25–5:15 p.m., Two-week course

The water's natural buoyancy, resistance, and cooling effect make this the perfect fitness class. This shallow-water class combines the best of aquatic cardio movements with strength segments, flexibility training, and great music! We’ll begin each class with a metaphysical focus that will help support our exercise and movement.

Stretch Yourself

Heather Fairbanks
College sports information director, assistant volleyball and beach volleyball coach
Early Bird, 6:30–7:20 a.m., Two-week course

This course is designed to work daily on flexibility and freedom of movement. Each class starts with a metaphysical focus around these concepts. The workout will then build on the truths we share. Classes will cover several different ways of working on increased flexibility—using ropes, dynamic stretching, yoga stretching, and more. Each day, we’ll work on balance as well, providing many opportunities to gain confidence through simple and fun physical activities.

Tennis for Life: Instruction for Beginners and Beyond

Shannon Carney, MEd
USPTA elite professional, College head women’s tennis coach
Early Bird, 6:30–7:20 a.m., Two-week course

Learn the game of tennis in a beginner group, or refresh your present game! 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). You may bring your racquet or use one of ours.

Recreational, drop-in tennis is also available each afternoon in Hexberg from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Trail Walking

Robert Baker
College head track and field coach
Early Bird, 6:30–7:20 a.m., Two-week course

Journey with us over the many trails on the College campus. These range from hilly, wooded, single-track trails to the wide, rolling grass trail of the 2017 NCAA Division III National Championship cross country course. Put on your walking shoes, and enjoy Principia’s wooded scenery!

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