Saturday-cation with Principia

Saturday-cation with Principia – June 21

A Day of Learning, Creativity, and Connection

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If you can’t join us during the week, treat yourself to a fun, inspiring day on Principia College campus! Enjoy thought-provoking talks, hands-on workshops, music, delicious meals, a pickleball tournament, and more—all for just $30. Stay all day or drop in as you like. Events begin at 8:30 a.m. 

This lively, all-day program brings together friends, family, parents, grandparents, Sunday School teachers, and lifelong learners for an energizing blend of events:

• Inspiring speakers including The Christian Science Monitor Editor Christa Case Bryant (C’03) and Bible scholar Dr. Barry Huff (US’98, C’02)
• Creative workshops (like jewelry making, portrait photography, woodworking, and a Provencal cooking class with Master Chef Marcel Biró)
• Timely seminars (from using AI in daily life to understanding fascism)
• Parenting and grandparenting workshop with Dorothy Halverson (C’85) Principia Early Childhood Principal
• Guidance on teaching spiritual concepts to children
• Book talk on The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier
• Music, tours, and a friendly pickleball tournament
• Meals

June 21 Schedule

8:30–9:30 A.M. Opening Talk

“The Bible in Mary Baker Eddy’s Life” with Dr. Barry Huff (US’98, C’02)

Dr. Barry Huff (US’98, C’02) shares his latest research on the Bible and Congregational Church in Mary Baker Eddy’s religious upbringing. Speaking in costume and character as Rev. Nathaniel Bouton, one of Mary Baker Eddy’s childhood pastors, Barry will feature excerpts from Bouton’s sermons at the New Hampshire Historical Society, Eddy’s correspondence with Bouton’s children and daughter-in-law at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, records of Congregational churches that the Baker family attended at the Congregational Library & Archives, and the Baker family collection at Longyear Museum. This interactive talk highlights the Christianity of Christian Science and the vital role of the Bible in Mary Baker Eddy’s religious upbringing and life.

9:45 A.M.–11:15 Morning Workshops - Select One

“Guiding with LOVE: A Principled Approach to Parenting and Grandparenting Young Children” with Dorothy Halverson (C’85), MEd, Principia Early Childhood Principal

Whether you’re a parent or grandparent, training young children is a journey filled with joy, humility, and countless learning opportunities for both parents and children. This workshop explores a principled approach to “parenting” that nurtures independence, responsibility, and strong moral character. Through practical strategies, real-life examples, and meaningful discussions, parents and grandparents will learn how to set loving boundaries, guide with respect, and create an environment where children thrive. Join us as we explore how to lead with love, foster curiosity, and support children’s growth with confidence and intention.

“Imagination and Art Glass: A Book Talk” with Linda Conradi (C’65), MLA

Join an engaging book talk on The Glassmaker, a historical novel by Tracy Chevalier, author of Girl with a Pearl Earring. This historical novel carries the reader through the evolution of Murano glass beads created by a woman during the Renaissance and beyond. Steeped in descriptive prose that transports the reader to Venice and Murano, and also encompassing the passing of time in an experimental way, this book invites you to look at glassmaking through a new lens, and to witness in richly detailed historical context the family life and career of Orsola Rosso. Enjoy a journey through art and time, beauty and adventure, and the trials and triumphs of a family of glassmakers in Murano, Italy.

“Summer in Provence Cooking Class” with Master Chef Marcel Biró

Join Chef Marcel for an in-person culinary experience that brings the flavors of Provence to life. In this hands-on class, you’ll work in small groups to make some of Marcel’s favorite dishes, each inspired by the summer bounty of Provence. The menu includes: 

• Filet Mignon au Poivre: a classic French dish, featuring tender filet mignon with a rich, flavorful peppercorn sauce
• Spätzle: a traditional German egg noodle dish for the perfect accompaniment
• Oven-Roasted Green Asparagus:  roasted with a light, flavorful finish
• Lavender Crème Brûlée: a delicate lavender-infused crème brûlée with a perfect caramelized top.

Supply fee associated with this class. (Class limit: 20). This class is repeated at 2:45 p.m.

“Taking Better Portraits with your Phone or Camera” with Susan Jackson (US’89), Professional Photographer, Graphic Designer

Learn to take professional looking portrait photographs from one of the most sought-after portrait photographers with work published in Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Country Living, Modern Bride, and more. Utilize and see natural light better, learn the best practices when photographing people, and learn what phone apps work well for post retouching. Bring your smartphone or camera.

“Understanding Fascism” with Peter van Lidth de Jeude (C’04), PhD, Principia College Interim Dean of Academics

Since its creation a century ago by Benito Mussolini, the ideology of fascism has defied attempts to understand it, even as it has shaped world events dramatically. Come learn about why it’s so difficult to explain exactly what fascism is, what beliefs are central to it, and how to better understand fascism as an idea as well as its impact on the present and the future. 

This workshop is repeated at 2:45 p.m.

Woodworking Workshop with Dan Sheets (US’81, C’85)

Learn the basics of woodworking while building a wooden frame. In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn to sand and assemble wood using essential tools. Leave with a hand-crafted frame and the skills to keep creating. All materials are provided.

11:30 A.M.–1 P.M. Lunch

1–2:30 P.M. Featured Presentation

"The Unique Promise of The Christian Science Monitor in Today's Media Landscape" with The Christian Science Monitor Editor Christa Case Bryant (C’03)

Enjoy a timely, insightful conversation with Editor Christa Case Bryant. She’s the second woman to hold this role since the paper’s founding in 1908 and brings more than two decades of national and international reporting experience with the paper. 

2:45–4:15 P.M. Afternoon Workshops and Tour – Select One

Historical Tour of Alton with Stephanie Young (C’06)

Did you know that Alton once boasted it had more millionaires per capita than any other city in the country? And that some say the first shot of the civil war was fired in Alton? Or that it’s known as the most haunted small town in America? Come along with Principia alum and Alton tour guide Stephanie Young (C’06) to embark on a historical journey and dive into the rich tapestry of Alton’s past, from its bustling riverfront beginnings to its pivotal role in the abolitionist movement and beyond. We will uncover the secrets of this quaint, yet significant town nestled along the mighty Mississippi River and how its fascinating history has shaped Alton into the charming and quirky city that it is today.

“Jewelry Making with Baubles and Bits” with Leah McFall (US’89, C’93), MSEd, MFA, Principia College Associate Art Professor, Theatrical Designer, Costume Director

In this hands-on workshop you’ll learn techniques to create earrings and pendants using beads, wire, and other found objects. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to expand your creative skills, you’ll leave with handmade pieces that reflect your personal style – and perhaps a gift or memento to remember your Summer Session experience. 
(Class limit: 18)

“Picklepalooza Pickleball Tournament” with Shannon Carney, MAEd, USPTA Elite Professional, PTR Professional, Principia College Head Women’s Tennis Coach

Get ready for a smashing good time at our pickleball tournament that brings together players of all skill levels for fun, friendly competition. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the game, this event is your chance to rally, dink, and lob your way to victory.

“Planting Seeds of Truth: Teaching Spiritual Concepts to Young Children” with Dorothy Halverson (C’85), MEd, Principia Early Childhood Principal

Young children are naturally curious and eager to understand the world around them—including spiritual ideas. This workshop explores how to introduce foundational spiritual concepts such as the Synonyms for God, the Ten Commandments, and beloved Bible stories in ways that are tangible, meaningful, and engaging. Through hands-on activities and songs, parents and Sunday School teachers will discover how to make spiritual truths relatable to young students and create meaningful, joyful connections that help them grow spiritually. 

“Real Ways to Use AI in Daily Life” with Kevin Capp (C’93), Principia Director of Business Intelligence

Discover how to partner with AI to make your life easier, more creative, and more productive. In this interactive, hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to work with AI—not just use it—whether you're planning a project, improving workflows, or training AI to support specific tasks in your personal or professional life. With real examples from church, work, and even a bird feeder, you’ll see how AI can become a trusted assistant that helps you think, create, and solve problems. You’ll leave with practical techniques and tips you can use right away—no tech expertise required. You may bring a smartphone or laptop if you wish, but it’s not required. 

“Summer in Provence Cooking Class” with Master Chef Marcel Biró

Join Chef Marcel for an in-person culinary experience that brings the flavors of Provence to life. In this hands-on class, you’ll work in small groups to make some of Marcel’s favorite dishes, each inspired by the summer bounty of Provence. The menu includes:

• Filet Mignon au Poivre: a classic French dish, featuring tender filet mignon with a rich, flavorful peppercorn sauce
• Spätzle: a traditional German egg noodle dish for the perfect accompaniment
• Oven-Roasted Green Asparagus:  roasted with a light, flavorful finish
• Lavender Crème Brûlée: a delicate lavender-infused crème brûlée with a perfect caramelized top.

Supply fee associated with this class. (Class limit: 20)

“Understanding Fascism” with Peter van Lidth de Jeude (C’04), PhD, Principia College Interim Incoming Dean of Academics

Since its creation a century ago by Benito Mussolini, the ideology of fascism has defied attempts to understand it, even as it has shaped world events dramatically. Come learn about why it’s so difficult to explain exactly what fascism is, what beliefs are central to it, and how to better understand fascism as an idea as well as its impact on the present and the future.

4:30–5:30 P.M. Free Time 

Open pickleball courts

Open library exhibits of the Dead Sea Scrolls replica jar and the “Mary Baker Eddy’s Churches, Homes, and Biblical Interpretation” exhibits from students in Dr. Barry Huff’s Christian Science Movement courses

Short Film: Bernard Maybeck’s Vision for Principia College 
Principia College’s 2,600-acre campus features the world’s largest collection of buildings designed by renowned architect, Bernard Maybeck. 

5:45–7 P.M. Barbecue Dinner 

7:15 P.M. Summer Session Finale with special musical performances including the Summer Session Choir

8:15 P.M. Pub Open