Meeman Center for Lifelong Learning

Global Political Stories
Henager: Mondays, October 7 and 14; 5:30–7:00 p.m. 
Martins: Mondays, September 23 and 30; 5:30–7:00 p.m. 
$35 per session, $140 for series

Developed in collaboration with the Dean of Global Initiatives at Rhodes College, Professor Eric Henager, Global Political Stories is a new lifelong learning series that explores the power of stories—both fiction and non-fiction—to engage some of our world’s most compelling political questions. This Fall, classes will focus especially on Latin America and Brazil. Register for any or all as your schedule allows.

October 7. Latin American Political Stories: Non-fiction
Professor Eric Henager (Modern Languages and Literatures)
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall) or virtual (Zoom)
This session concentrates on documentary, autobiographical, and testimonial representations of a series of contentious political questions in Latin America. Selections offer historical context for students enrolled in the September 16 session, but also stand on their own merits as essential readings in Latin American Studies. Selections will be provided as pdfs in Spanish and English. 
Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

October 14. Latin American Political Stories: Fiction and Poetry
Professor Eric Henager (Modern Languages and Literatures)
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall) or virtual (Zoom)
In this session, we will take a close look at how selected Spanish-language writers from Latin America have represented the region’s most urgent political issues in fiction and poetry. As the US heads down the homestretch to the 2024 elections, we will discuss a selection of short stories, poems, and fragments of novels that take on the politics of our hemispheric neighbors. Selections will be provided as pdfs in Spanish and English. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

September 23. From Cabral to Lula: Brazil, the Country of the Future
Professor Ricardo Martins (Modern Languages and Literatures)
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall) or virtual (Zoom)
This session dives into the captivating yet tumultuous story of Brazilian politics, from the arrival of Pedro Álvares Cabral in 1500 to the recent presidencies of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, popularly known as Lula. Through a brief analysis of key moments in the country’s history, we will begin with an overview of the colonial period and its legacy, then move into what has been known as the “Republican experiment” and the 20th century turmoil during dictatorship, and finally arrive at the re-democratization of the country, including how four of five democratically-elected presidents ended up impeached, jailed, or banned from politics. Reading selections will be provided as pdfs. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

September 30. A Look at Brazilian Politics in Machado de Assis’ Fiction
Professor Ricardo Martins (Modern Languages and Literatures)
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall) or virtual (Zoom)
José Maria Machado de Assis has written extensively on social issues, slavery, and Brazilian customs and is widely held as the master of Brazilian literature. In this class, we will delve into samples from his chronicles, short stories, and novels, uncovering how they reflect and sometimes challenge the social and political realities of 19th-century Brazil. We will also analyze the transition from the Brazilian Empire into the Republic through excerpts from the novel Esaú e Jacó (1904), exploring how some of its themes apply to today’s political landscape, both in Brazil and in the United States. Reading selections will be provided as pdfs. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

In Our Time: The Early Hemingway Stories 
Professor Marshall Boswell (English)
Tuesday, September 10; 5:30–7:00 p.m.
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall) or virtual (Zoom) $35

In this class we will read and discuss Ernest Hemingway’s first story collection, In Our Time.  In this brief but groundbreaking work, Hemingway first unveiled his terse, precise and artful literary voice. The fifteen stories that make up this slim collection can all be read individually. At the same time, taken as a whole, the book also comprises an illuminating bildungsroman, or coming-of-age novel, featuring one of Hemingway’s most enduring heroes, Nick Adams. Although Hemingway would go on to publish more celebrated works such as The Sun Also Rises and Farewell to Arms, there is no better introduction to Hemingway’s unique art than this near perfect work of literary fiction. This course can be enjoyed on its own or as a precursor for the “Hemingway in Paris” Lifelong Learning Abroad trip planned for July, 2025. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 30 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

AI: A Guide for the Perplexed 
Professor Jared Millson (Philosophy)
Thursdays, September 12, 19, 26 and October 3; 5:30–7:00 p.m.
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall) or remote (Zoom), $35 per session, $140 for full series

This timely series offers an introduction to artificial intelligence, exploring its technical and philosophical underpinnings as well as the social, political, and ethical challenges that it poses. The four classes will address common themes but will differ in their core content. Register for any or all as your schedule allows. 

September 12. The Mind as Computer: This session explores the idea that mental processes are computational—a view known as Computationalism—and situates it among competing philosophical views of mental phenomena. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

September 19. Good Old-Fashioned AI: This session introduces the basic concepts of computer science and then examines classical approaches to AI such as search algorithms. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

September 26. Learning to Learn: This session introduces learning algorithms and explores some common approaches to machine learning. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP
October 3. The Computer as Brain: This session focuses on the approach to AI and Cognitive Science known as Connectionism and the architecture known as Artificial Neural Nets. Here, we’ll discuss the latest developments in generative AI. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

YA Medieval Fantasy and Historical Fiction  
Professor Lori Garner (English)
Tuesdays, September 17, October 15, November 12, December 10; 5:30–7:00 p.m.
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall) or virtual (Zoom)
$35 per session, $140 for all four sessions

Discover why more and more readers of all ages have become captivated by fiction published under the “young adult” umbrella. In the case of medieval historical fiction and fantasy, some of the 21st century’s most innovative and impactful work has appeared in the sub-genre of YA literature. This course offers a chance to explore four such award-winning novels that offer fascinating insights into the medieval world while at the same time probing deep and timely questions of identity, power, and transformation in our world today. This four-session course will meet monthly, with opportunities for informal online discussion between sessions. Participants should obtain and read each novel prior to its designated session. Excerpts from corresponding medieval texts will be provided as pdfs. Register for one or all sessions as your schedule allows.

September 17. Legendborn (Tracy Deonn, 2021) and Arthurian literature. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

October 15. Hush: An Irish Princess’ Tale (Donna Jo Napoli, 2008) and Laxdæla saga. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

November 12. Grendel’s Mother: The Saga of the Wyrd-Wife (Susan Signe Morrison, 2016) and Beowulf. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

December 10. The Inquisitor’s Tale; or, The Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog (Adam Gidwitz, 2018). Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

Baking, Poison, and Murder: A Mystery Party
Professor Kim Brien (Chemistry)
Tuesdays, September 24 and October 1; 5:30–7:00 p.m.
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall), $75

Hemlock, arsenic, cyanide, and Novichok have all been used as poisons. In week one, we will look at the history of these and other poisons and the effects they have on the body. Then in week two, we’ll put our recent knowledge and skills to the test during a murder mystery party. It’s time for a bake down! Come join other competitors as they try to figure out the best way to win, or prevent someone else from winning. Characters of all baking and all science levels are welcome!
Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .3 CEU, 3 PDP

Black Music and American History 
Professor Charles Hughes (Urban Studies)
Mondays, October 7, 14, 28 and November 4; 5:30–7:00 p.m.
Virtual (Zoom), $35 per session, $140 for full series

This series offers a historical discussion of Black music and its relationship to the larger histories of the United States, from African roots to the present day. Pdf readings will be provided. The four classes will address common themes but will differ in their core content. Register for any or all sessions as your schedule allows.

October 7. The Sounds of Freedom: Black Music and the Making of The Nation. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP
October 14.  Move On Up A Little Higher: Blues, Jazz, Gospel, and the Making of the 20th Century. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

October 28. One Nation Under A Groove: Soul Music and the Making of the Freedom Movement. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

November 4. Rhythm Nation: Hip-Hop and the Making of Modern America. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

How do we “save the bees”?
Professor Kate LeCroy (Biology)
Thursdays, October 10, 17, 24; 5:30–7:00 p.m.
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall) or remote (Zoom)
$35 per session, $105 for full series.

“Save the Bees” is a phrase used by many campaigns to raise awareness and promote solutions for aiding bee populations threatened by habitat loss, climate change, and disease dynamics. This series will cover the broader ecological diversity of our 20,000 species of bees known in the world, the roles bees have in shaping life on Earth as we know it, and how we can promote bee health and diversity in a time when their persistence in the landscape is imperiled. Readings will be provided as pdfs. The three classes will address common themes but will differ in their core content. Register for any or all sessions as your schedule allows.  

October 10. The ecological diversity of bees: explore our earth’s 20,000 bee species. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

October 17. The value of bees: discover how we value pollination services and different ways bees are valued in societies across the world. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

October 24. Conservation solutions for bees: understand the best and worst practices for bee conservation through the latest research on bee declines. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

Stories of Elmwood Cemetery
Dr. Erin Hillis (Buckman Center for International Education)
Tuesday, October 29; 5:30–7:00 p.m.
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall) or remote (Zoom), $35

Some of Memphis’ most fascinating history, love stories, heroic deeds, and devastations are recorded in the lives of those at rest at Elmwood Cemetery, Memphis’ oldest cemetery still in operation. We’ll cover a range of topics such as the history of the cemetery itself, the Victorian influence on its design, the historic events which Elmwood bears witness to, and the many fascinating stories of the people buried there. Many of the names which built Memphis can be found at Elmwood; let’s learn about their contributions together. We’ll also discuss the interesting and educational events happening regularly at Elmwood. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

Design Fundamentals
Professor Karl Erickson (Art and Art History) 
Wednesday, October 30; 5:30–7:00 p.m.
In-person (Clough Hall, Room 302), $35

Graphic Design is creative problem solving, with the goal of effectively and memorably communicating one’s message. From resumes to business cards, and from posters to social media posts, all design makes use of the elements and principles of art and design.  In this class, which will meet in the Art and Art History Department’s newly designed computer classroom, participants will learn how to put these into action using commonly available software. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 16 students. | .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

Gilgamesh Through the Ages
Professor Scott Garner (Ancient and Mediterranean Studies)
Wednesdays, November 13 and 20; 5:30–7:00 p.m.
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall) or remote (Zoom), $70

Often cited as one of the earliest works of literature, the Epic of Gilgamesh is arguably just as relevant today as it was 4000 years ago. Within its lines, the epic contains extended discussions of heroic honor, environmentalism, human mortality, and the nature of the divine—all topics that have maintained their significance even into the many different value systems present in our modern world. Accordingly, this two-session course will explore the Epic of Gilgamesh with the aim of understanding not only how this story was important in its own cultural context but also how it can provide meaning for us ourselves today. Participants will read the translation by Andrew George. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. | .3 CEU, 3 PDP

Calling Memphis Home: Voices of African Immigrants
Professor Abou-Bakar Mamah (Modern Languages and Literatures, Africana Studies)
Mondays, November 11, 18, December 2; 5:30–7:00 p.m.
In-person (Dorothy C. King Hall), $35 per session; $105 for full series

This course explores the experiences, perspectives, and voices of African immigrants who have chosen Memphis as their home. Students will gain insights into the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and narratives of African immigrants living in Memphis through various mediums, including literature, film, and music. Emphasis will be placed on understanding African immigrant communities’ challenges, triumphs, and contributions to Memphis’s social, cultural, and economic fabric. The three classes will address common themes but will differ in their core content. Register for any or all sessions as your schedule allows.  

November 11. Voices of African Immigrants: A Geographic, Demographic, and Socioeconomic Portrait of Recent African Immigrants. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. |  .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

November 18. Voices of African Immigrants: African Immigrants and the Pursuit of the American Dream. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. |  .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP

December 2. Voices of African Immigrants: African Diaspora and Cultural Identity. Class size: minimum of 6 students and maximum of 20 students. |  .15 CEU, 1.5 PDP
 

Where are in-person classes held? Unless otherwise noted, in-person Meeman classes will be held in Dorothy King Hall, which is located along University Street on the West Campus of Rhodes College. Simply buzz the doorbell when you arrive, and you will soon be greeted at the door. Light snacks, water, and coffee will be available.

How do I join classes that are offered remotely? Zoom links will be sent to all registrants for remote classes and to those registering for the remote option in hybrid classes. Please note that if you are sharing a screen with other members of your household, only one registration is necessary. If you are new to Zoom, you can find a beginners’ guide here.  

How big are Meeman Center classes? In keeping with the liberal arts mission of Rhodes College, our lifelong learning courses are kept small enough to allow everyone to actively participate, including remote participants. The minimum class size is 6, and classes are normally capped between 15 and 25, depending on subject matter and class needs. 

The class I want to take is offered both in-person and remotely. Which is better? The choice is completely up to you. The AV system in our classroom is excellent, and remote learners will be able to see, hear, and fully participate in all aspects of the course. Additionally, a Lifelong Learning fellow will typically be on Zoom calls to help ensure a seamless experience for remote learners. 

Where should I park for my Meeman class? Meeman students are free to make use of any lots on the Rhodes campus at no charge. Parking is available in the lot directly behind King Hall and in the adjacent lot near McNeill Concert Hall. A campus parking map can be found here.

Does Dorothy C. King Hall have accessible facilities? Yes, the back of King Hall has an accessible entrance. Simply buzz the doorbell or knock when you arrive. King Hall also has a wheelchair accessible restroom. Please feel free to contact us with any additional needs you might have.  

Do Meeman courses have textbooks? Some faculty select textbooks that students should purchase ahead of time, others share readings with students as PDFs, and many expect no advance reading at all. Participants will be sent an email well ahead of time with details for their course.

Do Meeman Center classes have exams or other requirements?  Unless otherwise noted, our courses have no entrance requirements, no grades, and no tests. Meeman classes are non-credit bearing and offer opportunities for adult learners to explore new ideas in an informal and open environment.

An emergency came up, and I can no longer attend my Meeman class. Can I receive a refund? We understand that life is sometimes uncertain. Full refunds will be given for registrations cancelled at least two weeks before the first day of your class. Those needing to cancel less than two weeks before a course start date may choose to receive either a credit of the original amount toward future classes or a 50% refund.

What if a class is cancelled due to inclement weather? If any class must be cancelled due to inclement weather or for any other reason, students will be notified via email and plans will be made to reschedule. In the event that rescheduling is not possible, refunds will be issued for any cancelled classes.

I would like to earn Continuing Education Units or Professional Development Points through my Meeman course. How can I do this? All Meeman Center classes are eligible for CEU and PDP credits, normally .1 CEU and 1 PDP per hour of instruction. If you would like a certificate to verify your course completion, simply write to meemancenter@rhodes.edu or to the director, Lori Garner, at garnerl@rhodes.edu. 

My Meeman class ends after dark. Is anyone available to escort me to my car? Yes, Rhodes Campus Safety is happy to escort Meeman students. Just call the Campus Safety non-emergency number: 901-843-3880.

What kind of discussion can I expect in my Meeman class? Meeman Center students can expect the same commitment to an open learning environment found across the Rhodes College campus. Freedom of thought, a respectful exchange of ideas, and an appreciation of diverse perspectives are fundamental characteristics of the Rhodes learning community.

How can I stay connected with the Meeman community on social media? 
Follow us on facebook at facebook.com/meemancenter or Instagram at Instagram.com/meemancenter

I have a question not answered here or an idea I would like to share. Who should I contact? You can reach us by phone at 901-843-3965 and by email at meemancenter@rhodes.edu.  Feel free also to email the director, Dr. Lori Garner, at GarnerL@Rhodes.edu. We would love to hear from you!