Institute Insider

May 19 | Dialogue for Peace: Bridging Our Differences
6–8 p.m., Cowles Auditorium

The Norway Peace Initiative and The Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights – U.S. Foundation present "Dialogue for Peace: Bridging Our Differences" on Tuesday, May 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. in Cowles Auditorium. Humphrey Institute Dean Brian Atwood will moderate a discussion with a distinguished panel of guests. Panelists include Ambassador Rolf Willy Hansen, former Consul General in Minneapolis and Norway's Ambassador to Syria; Imam Senaid Kobilica, president of the Islamic Council in Norway; Ms. Ingrid Vik, senior advisor, Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights; and Dr. Abdi Samatar, professor of geography and global studies, University of Minnesota. Also participating in the program are Carol Engebretson Byrne, president of the Minnesota International Center, and Janet Dolan, founder of the Norway House Minnesota Peace Initiative and a board member of the Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights – U.S. Foundation.

This event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited. Reservations are required at www.norwayhouse.net. This event is co-sponsored by the Humphrey Institute and Minnesota International Center.

May 20 | Women and Politics Book Group
5 p.m., Freeman Commons

The Women and Politics Book Group, an initiative of the Humphrey Institute's Center on Women and Public Policy, will discuss Pauli Murray: The Autobiography of a Black Activist, Feminist, Lawyer, Priest, and Poet, written by Pauli Murray, on Wednesday, May 20, at 5 p.m. in Freeman Commons (205 Humphrey Center). All are welcome to attend. Click here for more information.

May 21 | Retirement party for Ann Markusen
3–4:30 p.m., Freeman Commons

Humphrey Institute faculty and staff members are invited to a reception in honor of Ann Markusen on the occasion of her retirement on Thursday, May 21, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in Freeman Commons (205 Humphrey Center). During her tenure at the Institute, Ann has conducted research on economic development at the local, state, national, and international levels. She applied an innovative approach to studying the structure and conduct of such industries as the high-technology, steel, and defense sectors. Her research led to a better understanding of regional conditions and the prospects for job creation, income growth, and stability. Ann's most recent work has involved workers as decision makers and the effects of human capital on sustaining regional development. Using artists as a case study, she explored the special economic contributions of cultural industries, nonprofits, and community groups, documenting the creative economy’s role in local economic vitality. Please join us in congratulating Ann and wishing her well.