U of M to hold MN Sparks event on Rochester campus

On Wednesday, Nov. 1, the Rochester community will have an opportunity to engage with several University researchers as part of the Minnesota Sparks series held on the UMR campus (111 South Broadway, Room 417, Rochester, MN 55904). The event, hosted by Regent Steve Sviggum, aims to create open dialogue with faculty tackling some of the area’s most critical issues.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., presentations and Q&A discussions are held from 6–7:15 p.m., followed by an open social hour. Minnesota Sparks is free of charge, and all are welcome to attend. Registration is encouraged. To register, visit z.umn.edu/SparksinRochester or contact the U of M Alumni Association at 612-624-2323.

Minnesota Sparks in Rochester features three University of Minnesota researchers:

Dr. Ruth Lindquist: How the Simple 7 Can Transform our Health
Learn how embracing the American Heart Association’s “Life’s Simple 7” transforms health behaviors to reduce risks for heart disease. Professor Lindquist, a coordinator of nursing programs at UMR, researches cardiovascular health behavior and disease prevention including exercise, mindfulness, weight loss and using supportive technology.

Dr. Laura Bloomberg: Leading Together: Finding Common Ground in Uncommon Times
Collaborating across teams, organizations and sectors to advance the common good in a diverse world is not easy with people who view the world differently. Bloomberg, dean of the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, will draw on her leadership research and experience to highlight practices that achieve the best outcomes.

Dr. Jessica Hellmann: Surviving and Thriving in a Changing Climate
Our climate is changing, but there is a strategy in the struggle to address these changes that is often overlooked or under-appreciated: adaptation. Hellmann, director of the U’s Institute on the Environment, will talk about ways that we can help both human and natural systems adjust to changing conditions – for the benefit of people and nature alike.

Minnesota Sparks in Rochester is part of a larger series of Minnesota Sparks events throughout the state. 

Media note: Media are welcome to attend any or all of the event. Please RSVP to the University News Service, 612-624-5551, [email protected]. Interviews with presenting faculty are available.