The South Haven Speakers Series is kicking off its 12th season this spring with a lineup of four programs organizers say is aimed at exploring critical issues shaping both the local community and the wider world.
Board President Elaine Stephens said the topics were chosen with input from past audiences. “The topics reflect issues that are crucial to what we face around the world and at our doorstep,” she said. “It will be another exciting year for those attending our series and for those watching repeat broadcasts from our website and on YouTube.”
The series opens Thursday, April 30, with Ambassador Bridget Brink, a West Michigan native and former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine during the Russian invasion in 2022. Brink will discuss “Why Ukraine and Eastern Europe Matter,” drawing on decades of diplomatic experience, including postings in Slovakia, Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, and the Caucasus region.
On Thursday, May 14, University of Michigan astronomer Annie Blackwell will address “How Bright Lights Endanger Starry Nights,” highlighting the growing challenge of light pollution, its effects on wildlife, human health, and the loss of natural night skies.
The fall series begins Thursday, October 22, with Dr. Tom Ludwig, Professor of Psychology at Hope College, examining the promises and perils of artificial intelligence. Ludwig will explore how AI could reshape jobs, culture, and even what it means to be human.
The series concludes Thursday, November 19, with journalist and author Tim Alberta, who will discuss polarization, extremism, and broader cultural trends in American society following the midterm elections. Alberta draws on decades of national political reporting and offers insights on navigating challenging times.
All presentations are held at Lake Michigan College — South Haven Campus, with refreshments at 6:30 p.m. and programs beginning at 7:00 p.m. Events are recorded for later viewing on the Speakers Series website and YouTube channel.
For more information, visit southhavenspeakerseries.org.
** Pictured top left and clockwise: Bridget Brink, Annie Blackwell, Tom Ludwig, Tim Alberta. Photo provided by South Haven Speaker Series organizers. **
