The South Haven Speakers Series will launch its 11th season with a dynamic lineup of speakers covering some of today’s most pressing topics: nuclear energy, the evolving landscape of mega money in college sports, immigration, and the economy.
The four-part series, held at the South Haven campus of Lake Michigan College, kicks off in April and runs through the fall. Each presentation begins at 7 p.m., with admission set at $10, while students attend free of charge.
Speakers Series President Elaine Stephens said the series opens on Thursday, April 10 with Max Vanatta, a bright young U of M graduate engineer student who has authored a comprehensive research paper on nuclear power.
“Max will provide a fresh new look at the risks and rewards of recommissioning nuclear power plants including the use of small modular reactors called SMRs” Stephens said. “This is especially timely with the country’s focus on plans to reopen the nearby Palisades nuclear power plant,” she said.
The financial landscape of college athletics has changed dramatically. “With new name, image, and likeness (NIL) rules and shifting conference alignments, Greg Dooley, University of Michigan Professor, will examine the historical forces shaping today’s college sports economy,” Stephens said. Dooley is a highly sought after vibrant speaker with insightful thoughts on the big business of college sports. He will speak at the series on Thursday, May 8th.
Immigration is a key national issue. “David Thronson, Michigan State University Law Professor will break down the legal framework of immigration and analyze its economic impact, particularly in Michigan” Stephens said. Thronson will appear Thursday September 11th.
What’s up with the economy? Stephens said, “If anyone knows the answer it’s economist Marci Rossell McCarthy.” McCarthy is a world-renowned economist and financial expert who electrifies audiences nationwide, speaking candidly on econmics, politics, culture and the media.
“Marci was a past Series speaker, and we are thrilled to have her back to close our 11th year”, Stephens continued. She will speak Thursday, October 16th.
There will be a 6:30 pm wine and cheese reception prior to each presentation.
The South Haven Speakers Series is a 501c3 non-profit organization. Approximately three-quarters of the Series budget comes from generous donors. Further information can be found at the Series website – southhavenspeakersseries.org
