‘Women in Society’ returns March 20 through 22

In observance of Women’s History Month, the public "Women in Society" series of events returns to Penn State Harrisburg March 20 through March 22.

Hosted and organized by the college Liaison Committee to the University Commission for Women, the series offers a variety of events ranging from a book signing, free health screenings, personal safety awareness, and a panel discussion featuring alumni. All events are free and open to the public.

The list of events includes:

Tuesday, March 20, 12:15 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Morrison Gallery) — "Reclaiming a Life Torn Apart by Violence," a presentation and book signing with Debra Puglisi Sharp. In 1998, a man entered Debra’s home and killed her husband. He then attacked and raped her, kidnapped her and held her in his home for five days. Join us for her compelling story and listed to the fateful 911 call that led to her escape.

Tuesday, March 20, 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. (Morrison Gallery) — "Spirituality, Culture, and the Arts in a Gendered Context," a presentation by Dr. Elizabeth Tisdell and Dr. Felicia Brown-Haywood. This session will explore the connection between spirituality and culture, and the role the arts, including visual art, music, and dance, can have in helping us "claim a sacred face" and serving as a gateway to the sacred.

Wednesday, March 21, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Gallery Lounge) — "Penn State Harrisburg Wellness Program." Opportunities to learn more about your own health as well as general health and wellness featuring:

• Blood Pressure Screening
• Body Fat Analysis
• Ovarian Cancer Awareness
• Glucose/Cholesterol Screening (free to first 30 students) ($7.50 for faculty/staff)
• Nutritious Eating Tips and Samples
• Breast Cancer Awareness
• Stress Management/Aromatherapy

Wednesday, March 21, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Gallery Lounge) — "No Victims Here," a safety awareness program sponsored by Penn State Harrisburg Department of Safety and Police Services. Learn how to protect yourself against assault, how to help a friend, and much more. Information stations include: Domestic Violence, Acquaintance Rape, Sexual Assault, Harassment, and a video on "Self-Defense Awareness and Familiarization Exchange."

Wednesday, March 21, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. (E-252, Olmsted) — "Take Control of Your Finances," a presentation which will include information on basic budgeting, financial planning, and saving for retirement. The presenter, Dr. Oranee Tawatnuntachai, will also discuss some important investment strategies and how to pick mutual funds for retirement portfolios.

Wednesday, March 21, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. (Special Events Room) — "Sybil," written by Peter DeHart, a story about one woman’s heroic deeds during the Revolutionary War. A reading by "Backstage: Penn State Student Drama Club." Adviser: Dr. Dorothy King.

Thursday, March 22, 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Gallery Lounge) — "Women Helping Women." Join us for a panel discussion featuring Penn State Harrisburg female alumni with interesting stories. Some have started down their path in life with a challenging start, others have hit snags along the way, and others made difficult choices. The Penn State Harrisburg and Alumni Relations Office are sponsoring the panel and providing lunch.

Thursday, March 22, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. (Morrison Gallery) — "Navigating the Work Environment: Tools for Effective Networking and Communication" will offer sessions on Personality Theory, Business and Networking, and Culture Communications. Associate Professor of Criminal Justice Barbara Sims will moderate the discussion. Panelists and their topics will include: Assistant Professor of Education Martha Strickland, "What are you thinking? Exploring the connects and disconnects that occur when attempting to communicate across cultures;" Associate Professor of Adult Education Elizabeth Tisdell, "Who are you? The role of personality characteristics in professional networking;" and True Colors Consultant Linda Dougherty, "True colors: discovering the keys to personal success through understanding and self-awareness."

For information on any event in the series, phone 717-948-6541.