Schenectady, N.Y. (April 20, 1999) – What role should a college play in the life of a local community? Do students have a responsibility to contribute beyond the classroom? How do perceptions on both sides of the campus walls affect the relationship between a college and a community? What does the future hold for Schenectady and Union College, and how will current projects – US Initiative, Metroplex –impact the community? These issues and others will be explored during the lecture series, “The Union-Schenectady Relationship: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow,” from 7-9 p.m., April 21, 28, and May 3 in Union College's Nott Memorial.
“Union College and the city of Schenectady have coexisted for more than 200 years, and it's interesting and important to hear from all sides about how things were, are and will be,” Union student and lecture series coordinator Ed Lallier said. “We need to talk about the successes and failures of this relationship to understand what's possible in the future.”
The three-part series begins Wednesday, April 21 with a look at the past; “The Union-Schenectady Relationship: Yesterday,” features Union Professor of History Robert Wells, who will discuss the people and events that have shaped the relationship.
On Wednesday, April 28, a panel featuring local media, human service organizations, Union students, faculty and administrators, and elected officials will discuss “The Union-Schenectady Relationship: Today.” The panel will engage in dialogue and debate on such issues as the role of students in the community and the impact of Schenectady's tarnished image.
Finally, on Monday, May 3, Union President Roger H. Hull and Schenectady Mayor Albert Jurczynski will examine “The Union-Schenectady Relationship: Tomorrow.” The leaders will discuss current and future initiatives aimed at improving the college and the city.
A reception for panelists and audience members will follow each discussion at 9 p.m. at Wells House on Union's campus. All events are free and open to the public.