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Drury University’s Humanities & Ethics Center Partners with Missouri Humanities for Seventh Annual Symposium

Drury University > Newsroom > Drury University’s Humanities & Ethics Center Partners with Missouri Humanities for Seventh Annual Symposium

Springfield, Mo., April 9, 2024 – Drury University’s Humanities & Ethics Center (HEC) is delighted to announce its collaboration with Missouri Humanities to present “From the Page to the Park: How Literature and Greenways Connect Community,” as part of the seventh annual MO Humanities Symposium. The symposium’s overarching theme, “Ozark Marvels: Innovation for the Common Good,” sets the stage for discussions on community connectivity, identity and environment. Dr. Katherine Gilbert, Associate Professor of English and Director of the HEC, will serve as the emcee for the session.

“Our presenting writers will read pieces that portray Ozark’s nature, landscape and culture, revealing how place-based identity finds expression in their writing,” Dr. Gilbert explained. “Before and after the presentation, we invite attendees to participate in family-friendly, hands-on thematic activities.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature-inspired literature while learning about Forward SGF’s “UnGap the Map” Initiative — a visionary plan to enhance regional connectivity through a network of trails. Through the power of storytelling, the event aims to deepen appreciation for the natural environment and encourage community engagement in initiatives promoting environmental stewardship.

Several distinguished Drury alumni and staff will share their work at this event:

  • David L. Harrison ’59 — Drury Poet Laureate and Missouri Poet Laureate
  • Kate Murr ’01 — Drury alumna and writer from the Ozarks
  • Rex Ybañez — University Writer/Editor in the Office of Marketing & Communications

This event will take place on Saturday, April 13, at 3:00 p.m. at Jordan Valley Park’s outdoor amphitheater located at 635 E. Trafficway Street, Springfield, MO. In the event of inclement weather, an alternative location will be announced to ensure the continuation of this enriching experience.

To register for “From the Page to the Park,” and to learn more about the Symposium,” visit https://mohumanities.org/springfieldsymposium/

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Media Contact: Jasmine Cooper, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications, Office: (417) 873-7390, Email: JCooper020@drury.edu