Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY - For the 15th Annual International Scene Lecture Series, Hofstra Professor of Economics, Dr. Robert Guttmann will present the first talk titled, "Has the Recession Bottomed Out?" on September 23, 2009 at the Leo A. Guthart Theater, Axinn Library.

The purpose of these presentations is to inform Hofstra students and the public on issues dealing with the economy and foreign policies.  In addition to Dr. Guttmann, Hofstra will welcome outside speakers to share their insight in talks titled, "Demilitarizing U.S. Foreign Policy," "Rethinking Afghanistan" and "The Challenge of Iran."  The full schedule appears below. 

A Citizens Guide to U.S. Foreign and Economic Policies

"Has the Recession Bottomed Out?"
Robert Guttmann, Professor of Economics
Wednesday, September 23, 2009, Leo A. Guthart Theater, Axinn Library   
11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.         
         
"Demilitarizing U.S. Foreign Policy"
David McReynolds, Former Chair of War Resisters International
Wednesday, September 30, 2009, Leo A. Guthart Theater, Axinn Library  
11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.   
     
"Rethinking Afghanistan"
David Wildman, Executive Secretary of Human Rights and Racial Justice,
United Methodist Church   
Wednesday, October 14, 2009, Leo A. Guthart Theater, Axinn Library
11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.    

"The Challenge of Iran"
Ervand Abrahamian, Professor of History at City University of New York
Wednesday October 21, 2009, 209 Breslin Hall
11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.          
     
There will be a question & answer period to follow each lecture.  Admission is free and open to the public.

These lectures are sponsored by Define '09, the Departments of Economics, History and Sociology in cooperation with The Center for Civic Engagement, Long Island Teachers for Human Rights and The Long Island Alliance for Peaceful Alternatives. For further information, please visit hofstra.edu/academics/define09/define09_events.html or call the Department of Economics at (516) 463-5595.

 "Define '09: New Challenges, New Solutions," is a year-long series of programs designed to examine the new presidential administration, its policies and initiatives, the challenges we currently face and ways of addressing our country's most pressing issues.  This initiative is designed to keep Hofstra students and community engaged in politics and civic engagement, building from the success of Educate '08 and the hosting of the October 15 debate.

Hofstra University is a dynamic private institution where students can choose from about 150 undergraduate and more than 160 graduate programs in liberal arts and sciences, business; engineering; communication; education, health and human services;  and honors studies, as well as a School of Law. With a student-faculty ratio of 14-to-1, our professors teach small classes averaging 22 students that emphasize interaction, critical thinking and analysis. Hofstra offers a faculty whose highest priority is teaching excellence. The University also provides excellent facilities with state-of-the-art technology, extensive library resources and internship programs that match students' interests and abilities with appropriate companies and organizations.  The Hofstra community is driven, dynamic and energetic, helping students find and focus their strengths to prepare them for a successful future.

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