A luncheon dialogue series this fall at the University of Louisville will feature speakers who examine how arts and culture can help connect diverse people, enhance their lives and change their perspectives.

UofL’s College of Arts and Sciences sponsors the UofL NETWORK luncheon series on racial and cultural diversity issues. NETWORK is an acronym for New Energy to Work Out Racial Kinks.

The events will begin at noon in the University Club. Here’s the fall NETWORK schedule:

Sept. 30 – Jazz – It’s Not Your Father’s Word or World: Reflections on the Racial, Social, Historical and Educational Aspects of American Music. The speaker will be Jerry Tolson, UofL associate professor of music education and jazz studies, Jazz Fest coordinator and director of instrumental and vocal jazz ensembles. Tolson will talk about how musical achievement requires many different kinds of thinking and how people who study music become adept at critical thinking and problem solving. (This talk has been canceled.)

Oct. 28 – Ideas to Action: Using Critical Thinking to Foster Student Learning and Community Engagement. In a panel discussion intended for educators of all levels, Patty Payette and Edna Ross from UofL’s Ideas to Action (i2a) initiative will discuss critical thinking and the arts as well as ways to enhance lifelong learning and classroom education.

Nov. 18 – Shadowboxer: An Opera Based on the Life of Joe Louis. The speaker will be John Chenault, UofL medical reference librarian, writer, theatrical producer and actor. Chenault will talk about how critical thinking and the arts helped him translate boxing’s physical intensity into his emotional two-act opera about the world heavyweight champion fighter.

Each meal is $12; reservations are required by the Monday prior to each event. To reserve a spot, contact Linda L. Wilson (502-852-0274) or Marian Vasser (502-852-2252).