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Following in the Footsteps of a Famous Father
For many people, it would be hard to follow in the footsteps of a famous father. But for Rev. Dr. Bernice King, her calling to serve is a natural progression of being the daughter of Martin Luther King, Jr. “There’s good in the worst of us and there’s bad in the best of us. I…
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Unlocking the Secrets of Stem Cells: A Path to Prolonged Human Longevity
What if the key to living longer and healthier lies within our own cells? Recent discoveries in stem cell research might bring us closer to that reality. Understanding aging is one of the most intriguing challenges in modern science, and recent research has uncovered complex biological processes that influence how we age, particularly through changes…
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The Supreme Court’s Influence on American Democracy
In a recent discussion, Michael Waldman from the Brennan Center for Justice examined the Supreme Court’s significant role in shaping American democracy. Waldman emphasized how pivotal the Court’s decisions have been throughout history, especially during times of political and social upheaval. While understanding our history is crucial, Waldman noted, it shouldn’t confine how we interpret…
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How the FBI Gave Rise to White Christian Nationalism
What happens when a professor of religious studies sues the FBI? For Lerone Martin, it ends up becoming the book “The Gospel of J. Edgar Hoover: How the FBI Aided and Abetted the Rise of White Christian Nationalism.” “I started out thinking I was going to write a book on religious radio…how religious radio shaped…
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Celebrating Walter Capps’ Impact on Religious Studies
In a celebration of legacy and learning, the UC Santa Barbara Department of Religious Studies recently hosted a panel featuring renowned scholars of religion who were once graduate students of the late Walter Capps. The current chair of the department, Juan Campos, moderated the panel, which highlighted Capps’ enduring influence on the academic community and…
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Rain from a River in the Sky
Have you ever heard your local weather forecaster mention terms like “pineapple express” or “atmospheric river”? These intriguing phenomena might sound whimsical, but they play a crucial role in our weather patterns. So, what exactly are they, and is global warming to blame? What is an Atmospheric River? An atmospheric river is like a giant,…
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A Conversation with Meg Ryan: Revisiting When Harry Met Sally
During a recent event at UC Santa Barbara, actress Meg Ryan sat down with moderator Brad Silberling to discuss her career and the timeless charm of the classic romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally. Their conversation provided a unique opportunity to explore the making of the film, its enduring legacy, and the nuances that have…
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Empowering Voices: Insights from Women in Leadership 2024
Celebrating and honoring the legacy of Sally Ride, the first American woman to fly in space, Women in Leadership brings together trailblazers who have shattered barriers and paved the way for women worldwide. This year’s panel featured Ina Garten, cookbook author, television host, and former White House budget analyst; Michelle K. Hanabusa, founder and creative…
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E.J. Dionne Reflects on America Today
In early May, journalist E.J. Dionne delivered the Burke Lectureship at UC San Diego, marking his ninth appearance on UCTV. Known for his political columns in the Washington Post, Dionne addressed America’s growing social isolation and loneliness, calling for a renewed focus on community and faith to heal the nation’s divisions. Dionne honored the spirit…
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The Kindness of Strangers: Survival in Linz, London and Shanghai
The story of Greta Taussig and Rudy Gans, as shared by their son Bob Gans, is a poignant tale of survival, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. Presented as part of the UC San Diego Holocaust Living History Workshop, their experiences offer profound insights into the trials of persecution and exile during one of history’s…