Thursday Evening Speaker Series

The History of the 45th Division in World War II

Thursday, September 11, 2025 | 6:00-7:30pm

Frank Cardimen, Professor at Oakland University The 45th Division served in Africa, Sicily, Italy, France and Germany, ending up in Dachau at Germany’s first prison camp. The presentation will cover the 180th Regiment, in which Professor Cardimen’s uncle fought. In Sicily, the 180th Regiment served under General George S. Patton, Jr. who commanded the United States 3rd Army. The battles and the experiences seen through the eyes of one soldier during three years of heavy fighting will remind us of the sacrifices our soldiers made in World War II.

An Update on the Middle East

Thursday, September 18, 2025 | 6:00-7:30pm

Gus Mondalek, International Affairs Expert

Renowned international affairs expert and popular lecturer Gus Mondalek will provide an in depth update on the Middle East. This presentation will feature an emphasis on Iran and Yemen, and political trends in the region. Gus will also address current headlines and happenings in the Middle East in order to provide the most up to date information for his audience. Attendees will come away with fact based knowledge of the region that only an experienced expert can provide. This program is generously sponsored by Autumn House.

Presidential Greatness

Thursday, September 25, 2025 | 6:00-7:30pm

Professor Bruce Zellers, Retired Oakland University Special Lecturer

What does it mean to be a great president? Who are the men who have earned this title since the creation of the United States? What criteria do we judge them by? And what are the myths and facts that surround this designation of “greatness”? Join popular lecturer Bruce Zellers as he explores this topic and answers these questions. Audience members will learn about the different narratives that come into play when talking about presidential greatness. This program is generously sponsored by American House Stone.

Immersive Live Animal Experience

Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 6:00-7:30pm

LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium Expert Animal Keepers

Approximately half of the population experiences some anxiety around snakes, and many are unfamiliar with other kinds of reptiles. The keepers at LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium are committed to breaking down the myths and fears surrounding these beautiful animals. Come and meet live reptiles of all kinds, from geckos, to snakes, to turtles, and even a baby alligator! Catch a glimpse of their gentle side, and see first-hand their amazing adaptations. Audience members will learn about the care of the different animals in captivity at the Reptarium, and will get to meet the animals in a safe and stress-free setting.

An Introduction to Haiti

Thursday, October 9, 2025 | 6:00-7:30pm

Margareth Corkery, Co-Founder and Vice President of the Haitian Network Group of Detroit

Come and reach beyond the headlines and learn about the rich culture and history of Haiti. Co-founded in 1999 by Magareth Corkery, the Haitian Network of Detroit (HNGD) is an organization designed to give Haitians and friends in the Metropolitan Detroit area the opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss current events and network. HNGD became a non-profit organization in 2003, and has sponsored and facilitated cultural events, publishes a newsletter called Zanmi Detroit, and supports the people of Haiti by donating to organizations and churches working in Haiti. This program is generously sponsored by American House Stone.

The Evolution of Infectious Disease

Thursday, October 16, 2025 | 6:00-7:30pm

Dr. Fabia Battistuzzi, Researcher and Associate Professor at Oakland University

Infectious diseases affect every human being across the globe at some point in life. Whether these infections are the result of viruses, bacteria, or other organisms, they are changing and evolving along with us as we strive to keep ahead in the battle of prevention and treatment. Dr. Battistuzzi's research focuses on understanding when and how species have evolved, and investigating the connections between their genetic innovations and variations in environmental conditions. Join her at Next to learn more about both the history and future of infectious disease. This program is generously sponsored by United Wound Care Institute.

Understanding Korea

Thursday, October 23, 2025 | 6:00-7:30pm

Mi Kyung Cho (Dong), Executive Director of the Korean American Cultural Center of Michigan’s Steering Committee

Come to Next for an insider’s view into the culture, and history, of Korea. The Korean American Cultural Center of Michigan (KACCM) has successfully served the Korean Community and community at large in the greater Detroit area since 1965. This longstanding organization provides a variety of Korean cultural activities, cultural exchange events, health programs, education and counseling services, Korean as second language (KSL), and English as second language (ESL) classes, and furthers cultural awareness and learning. This program will feature a look at issues facing Korea both at home and abroad. 

Farms, Tables and Your Health

Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 6:00-7:30pm

Dr. Fay Hansen, Biologist, Certified Organic Farmer, and Associate Professor at Oakland University

Harvest season is upon us, but what effect does that harvest have on your health? Dr. Fay Hansen is here to explain the connections between farming, food, and human health and biology. She received her Certificate in Organic Farming from Michigan State University in 2008, returning to campus to establish the Campus Student Organic Farming Program, which she now directs. Her goal is to help prevent cardiovascular disease and associated pathologies by increasing awareness of linkages between disease and the food system, including how sustainable food is produced, and how farming and food production practices affect both environmental and human health. This program is generously sponsored by Waltonwood University