Daily Program

The following events and activities are for registered Summer Session guests. Daily Chapel talks, afternoon programs in Wanamaker, and evening entertainment are open to the Principia community.

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

5:00–6:30 P.M., DINING ROOM
Opening Dinner 

7:30 P.M., YOUR HOUSE LIVING ROOM*
Get-Acquainted Party
Meet your fellow Summer Sessioners and learn something about each one. Your hosts will also share helpful tips for a successful Summer Session experience.
*Day students may join Anderson, Lowrey (women’s house), or Rackham parties.

SUNDAY, JUNE 11

10:30 A.M., CHAPEL
Christian Science Church Service
Please bring your Christian Science Quarterly or full-text lesson if you have one. All contributions to the collection made at this morning’s service will be lovingly given to the Chapel Fund, which supports Christian Science activities on campus. The student-led Principia College Christian Science Organization holds Sunday and Wednesday services during the academic year, hosts lectures, and plans a variety of on-campus activities that support students’ growth in Christian Science.

1:00–1:30 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
Short Film: Bernard Maybeck’s Vision for Principia College 

1:30–2:30 P.M., MEET AT THE INFO BOOTH
Campus Tours and Eliestoun Tours
Campus tours are designed to help first-timers get oriented to the buildings and campus, but returning guests are welcome to join to see the latest campus updates and projects.

Join Jeff Cornelius and Friends of Eliestoun for a tour of the 132-year-old home atop the bluffs which housed guests such as Bernard Maybeck and Mary Kimball Morgan before serving as the official residence of the president of Principia until 1959. View and learn about renovations to this beautiful and historic building.

Sign up at the Info Booth ahead of time for either tour.

2:30–3:45 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
Student Panel
Join us for a panel presentation by current Principia College students, moderated by Chief Advancement, Marketing and Communications Officer Sarah (Neale) Rand (US'99, C'03). This event takes place in grateful recognition of Principia's Howard Society and Legacy Society members.

4:00 P.M., SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT COMMONS
Howard Society and 1898 Legacy Society Reception
Invitation Only

7:00 P.M., CHAPEL
Summer Session Opening Assembly and Hymn Sing
Welcome remarks by Principia College President John Williams (C'76) followed by a Hymn Sing.

MONDAY, JUNE 12 

8:15 A.M., CHAPEL
“Discipleship During 125 Years of Progress” with Dr. Shirley Paulson (US’66, C’70)
One hundred and twenty-five years of progress does not happen by chance. Considering the parallel between the first 125 years after Jesus and the first 125 years of Principia, we can find some valuable insights about progress itself. How can our own discipleship help us contribute to the ongoing progress at Principia and in the world today?

NOON, GLASSED-IN DINING ROOM 1
The Willows Presentation
Steve DeWindt, executive director at The Willows, will share information about the benefits of living at this community for Christian Scientists in Laguna Hills, California.

1:15 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
Principia Overview and Update
Join Principia Chief Executive Barbara Blackwell (HON’22) for an update on Principia.

5:10 P.M., GLASSED-IN DINING ROOM 2
Movie
Students of Dr. Scott Eckert’s class are invited to dine together and watch the movie The Big Year about two bird enthusiasts trying to defeat the cocky, cutthroat world record holder in a year-long bird-spotting competition.

5:15 P.M., CHAPEL GREEN
Carillon Concert with Dr. Steven Ball
Listen to the magnificent bells of the Jean Rainwater Carillon, played by Dr. Steven Ball. Light snacks will accompany the concert. Summer Sessioners are welcome to head upstairs in the Chapel after the performance to meet Steven and learn more about this beautiful instrument.

5:30 P.M., GLASSED-IN DINING ROOM 1
The Willows Presentation
Steve DeWindt, executive director at The Willows, will share information about the benefits of living at this community for Christian Scientists in Laguna Hills, California.

7:00 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
“Inspiration Points: Where Our Writers Wrote” Author Talk and Book Signing with Clark Beim-Esche (C’71)
Having taught English and American literature for nearly forty years, Clark Beim-Esche enjoyed visiting the homes and places where some of our most significant and influential writers lived and wrote. Seeing these settings led him to a deeper understanding of the works these authors produced over the course of their careers. Clark will share some of the revelations and insights that he and his wife, Carol, found as the result of these inspiring visits.

8:30 P.M., PIASA PUB
Game Night
Join the Guest Relations team and fellow Summer Sessioners for an evening of fun and games!

TUESDAY, JUNE 13 

8:15 A.M., CHAPEL
“Seeing Past the Performance” with John Biggs, CS
Is something real just because we see it? Abiding with our standard of truth, we are able to see past the performance of mortality and discord and enjoy the freshness of divine Life. 

1:15 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
“Find Love on Page 209”
Dr. Steven Ball is an organist, carillonneur, improviser, composer, conductor, campanologist, organ consultant, and specialist in silent film accompaniment. He’ll discuss the preparation involved in scoring music for film. This talk will provide great behind-the-scenes insight before his live performance to Steamboat Bill, Jr. 

7:00 P.M., COX AUDITORIUM
Steamboat Bill, Jr. with Dr. Steven Ball
Action, comedy, drama, romance . . . this 1928 silent film starring Buster Keaton has it all. Gather for an evening of silly fun set in a Mississippi River town and featuring the exciting organ accompaniment of live theatre organist Dr. Steven Ball. 

8:45 P.M., HOLT GALLERY
Popcorn Buffet
You were all ears for the organ concert, now join us for the corniest event of all of Summer Session! Pop on over to Holt Gallery in School of Nations for a unique, fun, and tasty lineup of  popcorn varieties.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14 

8:15 A.M., CHAPEL
“My Search for God” with Sarah Summons
Until age five, Sarah Summons' grandmother helped raise her in addition to her parents. Even as a young child, Sarah recognized that her grandmother healed through prayer. Later in life, Sarah became a registered nurse but continued to search for how her grandmother healed spiritually. That search eventually brought her to Christian Science.

1:15 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
“A Retrospective on 27 Years at Principia” with Howard Berner (HON’06)
Howard Berner shares his story of working for Principia for nearly three decades as treasurer, chief financial officer, and chief investment officer. Hear about some of the biggest challenges Howard and Principia faced over the years and how he applied Christian Science for resolution. He’ll share metaphysical ideas that can be applied to today’s market and investments. 

5:30 P.M., GLASSED-IN DINING ROOM 1
Travel Slideshow with Inge Hardi (C'77)
Travel the globe with Inge Hardi as she shares slides and stories from her adventures with Principia Lifelong Learning (PLL) travel programs.

7:00 P.M., CHAPEL
Christian Science Testimony Meeting

8:15 P.M., PIASA PUB
Dueling Pianos & Pie
Dr. Joe Van Riper (C'05) and Darin Pierce (US'89) will fill the night with much-loved songs and lively sing-alongs. Bring your sweet tooth, as a variety of summer pies will be served.

THURSDAY, JUNE 15 

8:15 A.M., CHAPEL
“Do I Recognize the Christ?” with Ginger Mack Emden, CS
During Jesus' ministry, people around him were constantly inquiring, "Are you the Christ? How will we know when the Messiah has come?" The Christ is around us and in us, and this is central to healing. It's not a personal light, but a collective Truth in action.

NOON–1:00 P.M., GLASSED-IN DINING ROOM 1
The Principle Foundation Presentation
The Principle Foundation promotes inspired benevolence in accordance with the teachings of Christian Science. Bring your lunch and join Cathleen Ouderkirk and Ruth Coughtry for a presentation on the foundation’s mission and purpose, how you can get involved, and how you may benefit from the services offered.

1:15 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
“Global Implications of the War in Ukraine”
To gain a deeper understanding of the conflict in Ukraine, Principia College President John Williams (C'76) will provide a historical, cultural, political, and geographical context while explaining the conflict's impact on Chinese strategic thinking, the coming together of European nations, and the impact on global food supplies.

5:00 P.M., FLAGPOLE IN FRONT OF SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT
Bus Departs for The Muny
For those who pre-purchased tickets to Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, please board the bus to St. Louis. This live performance is outdoors, so dress accordingly. Boxed dinners will be provided for a picnic dinner in Forest Park.

7:00 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
Movie Night
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a summer flick on the big screen.

FRIDAY, JUNE 16

8:15 A.M., CHAPEL
“The Delights of the Three Degrees” with Chestnut Booth, CS (C’74)
Mrs. Eddy added the three degrees to her book, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, in her major revision of the 50th edition (p. 115–116). They provide a practical summary of her metaphysical system, her approach to scriptural interpretation and to treatment. They also provide us with a dependable road map for determining our answer, moment by moment to her question: "Consciousness, where art thou?"

1:15 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
Musical Fridays Concert: “Golden Scores”
Pianist Dr. Marie Jureit-Beamish, Professor Emerita of Music, shares her passion of favorite film selections through masterful arrangements of film classics including The Wizard of Oz, Singin’ in the Rain, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Phantom of the Opera, and Funny Girl. Beloved baritone Mike McMullin (C'85) shares the stage for a couple of audience favorites. Be ready for Beethoven’s surprise visit as he barges in on today’s concert as the star of the 1994 film Immortal Beloved!

5:30 P.M., GLASSED-IN DINING ROOM 1
The Principle Foundation Presentation
The Principle Foundation promotes inspired benevolence in accordance with the teachings of Christian Science. Bring your lunch and join Cathleen Ouderkirk and Ruth Coughtry for a presentation on the foundation’s mission and purpose, how you can get involved, and how you may benefit from the services offered.

7:00 P.M., MCVAY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
Butch Wax & the Hollywoods featuring Theo Peoples of the Temptations and The Four Tops
Voted the #1 band in Missouri, Butch Wax & the Hollywoods have been performing at sold out events throughout the midwest and U.S. for 35 years! Hear the classic songs from the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s with hits from Frankie Valli, Rick Nelson, Chuck Berry, The Supremes, Smokey Robinson, The Righteous Brothers, Elvis, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, Three Dog Night, Al Green, Aretha Franklin, Hall & Oates, The Beatles, The Blues Brothers, Etta James, Tina Turner, The Beach Boys, and more!

8:30 P.M., MCVAY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
Ice Cream Fridaes
Enjoy some fun ice cream novelty treats in the lobby and patio of McVay.

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

OPTIONAL SATURDAY EXCURSIONS
There are several off-campus excursion opportunities today. If you’re participating in a ticketed event, please confirm with the Info Booth that your name is on the roster. For non-ticketed events, please sign up at the Info Booth as soon as possible. All tours depart from and return to the flagpole.

Saint Louis Art Museum

• 9:00 a.m. bus departs campus
• 3:00 p.m. bus returns to campus
• Free; includes box lunch

Enjoy approximately two hours to explore the museum with PLL faculty member Susie Ledbetter (C'70) or with the self-tour. Afterwards, reunite for an outdoor picnic in Forest Park.

The Saint Louis Art Museum is one of the principal U.S. art museums, with paintings, sculptures, cultural objects, and ancient masterpieces from all corners of the world. You’ll discover artworks by famous artists such as Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, and more. This remarkable three-story building stands in St. Louis’ Forest Park, where it is visited by up to a half million people every year.

Opera Theatre of Saint Louis

• 9:45 a.m. motorcoach departs campus
• 4:30 p.m. motorcoach returns to campus
• $40; includes box lunch

Enjoy your box lunch in a tented outdoor picnic area before entering the Loretto-Hilton Center for a performance of Tosca, accompanied by members of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. The performance will be in English with projected English supertitles.

Grafton Sky Tours & Elsah General Store

• 1:00 p.m. van departs campus
• 4:00 p.m. van returns to campus
• Free; $10 for Sky Tour, paid on site

Grafton is the first stop to take an enclosed gondola or open chair lift and enjoy a soaring, 300-foot-high leisurely ride up the bluff top. It’s a breathtaking view. Grafton is full of quaint boutiques and ice cream shops to explore and taste. Returning to campus, the van will stop at the Elsah General Store in the heart of historic Elsah. Here, you’ll find vintage bottled soda, old fashioned candy, ice cream, jams, syrup, honey, chocolates, potters, cards, books, and the “goodies table.”

Missouri Botanical Garden with Chihuly Nights Exhibit

• 5:45 p.m. bus departs campus
• 10:30 p.m. bus returns to campus
• $25

Chihuly in the Garden 2023 presents the work of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly in a stunning exhibition uniting art and nature. Thousands of pieces of blown glass forms in 20 dramatic installations throughout the Garden’s grounds present these artworks on a grand scale. Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden is the nation's oldest botanical garden in continuous operation and a National Historic Landmark. The Garden offers 79 acres of beautiful horticultural display, including a 14-acre Japanese strolling garden, historic architecture, and one of the world's largest collections of rare and endangered flora.

7:00 P.M., DINING ROOM
Trivia Night, sponsored by Alumni & Field Relations
Who was the 21st U.S. President? What food never spoils? Who sang the 1955 hit “Rock Around the Clock?” Join us for a fun night of trivia with your friends. Make memories, win prizes, and test your knowledge!

SUNDAY, JUNE 18 

10:30 A.M., CHAPEL
Christian Science Church Service
Please bring your Christian Science Quarterly or full-text lesson if you have one. All contributions to the collection made at this morning’s service will be lovingly given to the Chapel Fund, which supports Christian Science activities on campus. The student-led Principia College Christian Science Organization holds Sunday and Wednesday services during the academic year, hosts lectures, and plans a variety of on-campus activities that support students’ growth in Christian Science.

1:00–3:00 P.M., LEONARD HALL
Grand Market Bazaar
A variety of Summer Session artisans and authors will exhibit their wares for viewing or purchase.

2:30–3:30 P.M., MEET AT THE INFO BOOTH
Campus Tours and Eliestoun Tours
Campus tours are designed to help first-timers get oriented to the buildings and campus, but returning guests are welcome to join to see the latest campus updates and projects.

Join Jeff Cornelius and Friends of Eliestoun for a tour of the 132-year-old home atop the bluffs which housed guests such as Bernard Maybeck and Mary Kimball Morgan before serving as the official residence of the President of Principia until 1959. View and learn about renovations to this beautiful and historic building.

Sign up at the Info Booth ahead of time for either tour.

4:00 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
“Honoring Two Superheroes of International Student Support” with Duyen Van Do (C’99), sponsored by the Upper School 50th Reunion Classes of 1973 and 1974
Visiting from Vietnam, Duyen will recount the impact that Hank (US'41, JC'43) and Margie (Day, US'38) Hamlin had on his life and share the importance of continued support for international students at Principia. The Hamlins' daughters, Betsy (US’73, C’77) and Jennifer (US'70, C'74) will introduce Duyen.

7:00 P.M., CHAPEL
Hymn Sing

MONDAY, JUNE 19 

8:15 A.M., CHAPEL
“What King Solomon, Christ Jesus, and Mary Baker Eddy Had in Common” with Joan Bernard Bradley (FS’99)
Explore how all three of these individuals practiced childlike obedience to God. Joan will share how her own childlike obedience to a new understanding of God as entirely good led to her son being healed of asthma through radical reliance on Christian Science.

1:15 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
“Current and Future Trends in Artificial Intelligence” with Dr. Clint Staley (C’80)
Chat GPT is considered the most powerful artificial intelligence in the world, capable of engaging in meaningful conversations with users and generating human-like responses across a wide range of topics. Learn about this newsmaker, how it is being used, its potential and downsides, and real-time examples of Chat GPT in operation.

5:15–6:00 P.M., CHAPEL GREEN
Carillon Concert with Carlo van Ulft
Listen to the magnificent bells of the Jean Rainwater Carillon. Enjoy this concert on the Chapel Green with light snacks. Summer Sessioners are welcome to head upstairs in the Chapel after the performance to meet Carlo and learn more about this beautiful instrument.

7:00 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
Movie Night: Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris
A widowed cleaning lady in 1950s London falls madly in love with a couture Dior dress and decides that she must have one of her own. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this delightful flick on the big screen!

8:30 P.M., PIASA PUB
Dueling Pianos & Dessert
Dr. Joe Van Riper (C'05) and Darin Pierce (US'89) will fill the night with much-loved songs and lively singalongs. Bring your sweet tooth, as a delicious strawberry shortcake will be served.

TUESDAY, JUNE 20 

8:15 A.M., CHAPEL
“Christian Science Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow . . . Forever?” with Roger Gordon
With churches closing and membership numbers dwindling, it could seem to the casual observer that the Christian Science movement is in decline. The reality is that Christian Science is alive and well. Nothing can kill off the Science of Christ. Truth is eternal. How it gets expressed humanly may change with the times, but that is why we are on the cusp of an incredibly exciting era in the history of the Christian Science movement. As we stop and seek God’s guidance, we will find God leading us to a bright and spiritually enriching future.

12:15 P.M., GLASSED-IN DINING ROOM 1
Travel Slideshow with Inge Hardi (C'77)
Travel the globe with Inge Hardi as she shares slides and stories from her adventures with Principia Lifelong Learning (PLL) travel programs.

1:15 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
“Interfaith Work and Spiritual Life at Principia” with Roger Gordon
What does spiritual life look like at Principia College? Hear from College Spiritual Life Program Manager Roger Gordon and learn why he is more excited than ever about Christian Science and its place at Principia.

7:00 P.M.,WANAMAKER HALL
John Denver Tribute with Roy Rivers
Known for his smile and genuine connection with everyone he meets, Roy Rivers is a Summer Session fan favorite! Whether he’s performing his own European chart-topping “What Our Love is Not About” or John Denver’s “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” (which won him a Country Music Award in Europe), concertgoers and fans worldwide can attest to the spirit and energy Roy  rings to the stage.

8:30 P.M., PIASA PUB
Roy Rivers Encore
The music and storytelling continue. Join Roy for an after-show gathering in the Pub. Enjoy the opportunity to swap stories and listen to a more intimate encore performance.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21

8:15 A.M., CHAPEL
“What My Cats Teach Me” with Dr. Marie Jureit-Beamish (HON’14)
Having lived a life filled with the company of an endless family of cats, Marie had learned much about God’s love for each of His precious ideas. Each furry friend in her family is a messenger from God bringing a unique purr-spective on the true meaning of Love. Come hear life messages from Brutus, Monty, Pollard, Junior, Nike, Sandy, Wolfy, Tiggy, and the whole gang. Daily cat meditations will be shared as we all “Paws for Prayer!”

1:15 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
Solar Car Update
Hear from members of Principia's Solar Car team as they talk about their success at the 2022 American Solar Challenge and share how they are preparing for future races. View the car following the talk.

7:00 P.M., CHAPEL
Christian Science Testimony Meeting 

8:15 P.M., DINING ROOM
Principia Club Ice Cream Social
Join the Alumni & Field Relations team and your fellow Summer Sessioners for the annual Principia Club Ice Cream Social. Make a special sundae, and learn about your local Principia Club and how you can experience Principia right where you live.

THURSDAY, JUNE 22

8:15 A.M., CHAPEL
“Christian Science and the Paraclete” with Dr. Matthew Cocks
During a conversation immediately after the Last Supper known by scholars as the ‘Farewell Discourse,’ Jesus mentions multiple times that another ‘Comforter’—translated from the Greek word ‘Paraclete’—would be sent by the Father. Almost 2,000 years later, Mary Baker Eddy was publicly open about her view that the Christian Science she had discovered was this Paraclete. This talk will consider Christian Science as the Paraclete and its relation to our spiritual journey.

1:15 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
"Ford vs. Chevy: The Ultimate Battle of the Brands" with Howard Bay (US'69, C'73)
Henry Ford transformed the lives of millions of Americans. Go for a spin into the unconventional life of the man who put the world on wheels and learn how his company took a wrong turn, allowing Chevrolet to take the checkered flag.

7:00 P.M., TENNIS COURTS
Pickleball Tournament Under the Lights
Register in advance at the Info Booth then grab your paddle and play! Join a community of pickleball enthusiasts from all levels for an evening of exciting matches. Not a player? Cheer from the bleachers as you witness what has made pickleball the fastest growing sport in the U.S.

8:30 P.M., PIASA PUB
Game Night
Join the Guest Relations team and fellow Summer Sessioners for an evening of fun and games!

FRIDAY, JUNE 23

8:15 A.M., CHAPEL
“Just Coincidence?” with Duncan Charters (HON’14)
When people say "What a coincidence!," do they mean merely that they are happy about some surprising random coming together of human circumstances? What if our expectations were based on a radically different concept of coincidence?

1:15 P.M., WANAMAKER HALL
Musical Fridays Concert: “For the Love of Africa and Antarctica”
Pianist Dr. Marie Jureit-Beamish, Professor Emerita of Music, is joined by one of the greatest proponents of African heritage music today, flutist Dr. Wendy (Hymes) Onovwerosuoke (US'90, C’94), to celebrate the beauty of Africa and Antarctica—bridged together through inspirational music and photographs from Marie's travels. This creative event guarantees to unlock the mysteries and magic of two of the greatest places on earth.

5:30 P.M., DINING ROOM
Farewell Banquet Dinner

7:00 P.M., MCVAY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
Closing Meeting
Enjoy a fun farewell meeting with closing remarks, a special slideshow of this year’s Summer Session, and a performance by the Summer Session Choir.

AFTER THE CLOSING MEETING, MCVAY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
Janet (Evra) Buchanan (C'10)
Join the Janet Evra Quartet for a charming evening of French jazz favorites by Edith Piaf, Charles Trenet, Henri Betti, Pink Martini, and more. Janet Evra is an international jazz vocalist, bassist, composer, and bandleader. She performs on premiere stages across the U.S. and Europe, and her music is played on radio stations around the world.

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

Departure Day
Vans will depart for the airport throughout the morning and early afternoon. A list of specific van departures will be posted in your dormitory and at the Info Booth on Thursday evening. Baggage assistance will be available all day.

Breakfast and lunch will be served in the Dining Room. If you will be leaving early, please feel welcome to pack a to-go lunch in the Scramble Room during the breakfast hour.