Dr. Mark Nepo at the 2019 Burian Lecture
On Thursday, March 21, poet, author and storyteller, Dr. Mark Nepo delivered the 2019 Burian Lecture, part of a series of lectures, given annually, that focus on community and educational issues in the health and human services from a problem-solving perspective.
The lecture was part of the Truth series from the Western Michigan University Center for the Humanities. This was the second year that the college has worked with the Center for Humanities to host the lecture. The arrangement is mutually beneficial, allowing the college to support the ongoing series on campus, while encouraging our own faculty, staff and students to attend the event on main campus.
Dr. Nepo was introduced by Dr. Katherine Joslin, founding director of the University Center for the Humanities, and Dr. Ron Cisler, dean of the College of Health and Human Services.
Dr. Nepo's talk focused on personal, community and global connections and drew from passages in his most recent book, More Together Than Alone. He incorporated a number stories and readings from several of his previous books. Comments and questions from attendees also contributed to the conversation.
About Mark Nepo
Mark Nepo moved and inspired readers and seekers all over the world with his #1 New York Times bestseller The Book of Awakening. Beloved as a poet, teacher, and storyteller, Mark has been called “one of the finest spiritual guides of our time,” “a consummate storyteller,” and “an eloquent spiritual teacher.” His work is widely accessible and used by many and his books have been translated into more than 20 languages. A bestselling author, he has published 20 books and recorded 14 audio projects. Visit Mark at MarkNepo.com.
About the Burian Lectures
Dr. Bill Burian, founding dean of WMU's College of Health and Human Services, believed in a global health and human services community. To honor his legacy, WMU and CHHS established the Burian University-Community Lecture Series in 1989. The lectures are focused on community and educational issues in the health and human services from a problem-solving perspective. They bring together students, faculty, community professionals and service providers, and the citizens of southwest Michigan to interact with leaders of national stature. More information at wmich.edu/hhs/about/lectures.