5:00

Social

5:15 Heritage Alcove

Book Discussion: The Glassblower of Murano
Discussion Leader: Cathy Hovancsak

In 1681, glassblowing is the lifeblood of the Venetian Republic, and mirrors are more precious than gold. Jealously guarded, the glassblowers of Murano are virtually imprisoned on their island in the lagoon. But, the great Corradino Manin sells his methods and his soul to Louis XIV of France to protect his secret daughter. In the present, his descendant, Leonara Manin, leaves London for a new life as a glassblower in Venice – only to find her fate linked with her ancestor’s dangerous secrets. The intrigue is in two different time frames, and for anyone who has traveled to Italy, it will be a reminiscence of the area that is Venice and Murano.

6:00

Dinner

7:00 Heritage Alcove

Constructing the Female Athlete: Political Meanings of Sex and Gender in Title IX
Speaker: Elisabeth “Libby” Sharrow, AAUW American Fellow, University of Minnesota

Sharrow’s current research project is “Producing Athletes, Defining Citizens,” in which she considers the role of public policy in defining gender, sex, and sexuality in United States politics. Her interest in this subject grew out of her personal experiences as a coach and member of the rowing team and her involvement with the University’s compliance initiative. -Ruth Aaskov