Content
The CAS Inquire program builds around a college-wide series of public lectures centering on a new theme each year. A touchstone for the college, the talks give students, staff, and faculty a focal point and shared topic for conversations and further inquiry.
This selective program offers high-performing students opportunities to talk with college thought leaders, connect with other inquisitive students, and engage important ideas. During the three-year program, CAS Inquire students will play a leadership role in planning, organizing, and facilitating the program in future years and will enjoy additional benefits.
Content
The 2026-2027 Theme
The Future of the Good Life
The talks and the panel discussion will be in the Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center, Ubuntu Room/202, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Sept. 8
“What Happens to Those Who Lived a 'Good Life'?“
Tom Fraatz
Classics and Religious Studies
Oct. 6
“Lessons from the Fragile Balance of Human and Microbial Communities”
Peter Angeletti
Biological Sciences
Nov. 3
“The Proactive and Value-Driven Decision(s) to Stay in Rural Nebraska”
Andrew Husa
Global Integrative Studies
Jan. 26
“Woošgą pįį and Decolonial Thought”
Angel Hinzo
History, Ethnic Studies
Feb. 23
“Building Connection and the Good Life Through Personal Storytelling”
Jody Koenig Kellas
Communication Studies
Mar. 23
Panel Discussion
All Speakers
Previous Themes
Uncertainty
2025-2026
War, Peace, and Reconciliation
2024-2025
Sustainable Futures
2023-2024
Possible Future Themes: Civil Discourse, Monsters and the Monstrous...?
What Program Participants Do
After applying or being nominated as a freshman:
Sophomores
Take a 1-credit class both fall and spring built around the CAS Inquire lecture series:
- Read and discuss an article based on the upcoming lecture one week
- Attend the public lecture the next week
- Discuss the topic with the speaker the week after the lecture.
Juniors and Seniors
Continue to participate in the program by serving as:
- a discussion leader in the class or
- a member of the CAS Inquire Advisory Board.
Additional Benefit
A one-time funding to attend a national conference or education abroad experience. Application required.
How To Apply
The application and nomination forms are closed. Please check back.