CHANGING THE PACE

For anyone who has attended an A.R. Sanchez Lecture at TAMIU, the event is pretty much predictable. A speaker who has done marvelous research generally goes up on the stage and talks about their work and what they have learned. This time around, things were a little more different. The A.R. Sanchez Distinguished Lecture Series took an unexpected turn and presented a different type of lecture to the TAMIU and Laredo community.

This past A.R. Sanchez Lecture showcased renowned actor Roy Henderson, talking about the life of famed scientist and inventor Galileo. Mr. Henderson has formed a part of the theatrical arts field for more than 50 years, with several acting companies and groups. Instead of standing behind a podium, and using a power point presentation for guidance, Mr. Henderson dressed up in full costume and used props to tell the story of Galileo. He was able show the audience a first person perspective on the genius's life, trials, and tribulations. From his scientific discoveries to his persecution by the Catholic Church, Henderson explained it all.

Students who attended the lecture enjoyed this new experience that was being offered at the lecture. Jose Ramon Lara, a TAMIU nursing student, explained that he only attended the lecture to gain extra credit for a class. This is not a foreign excuse for most TAMIU students; the real reason they attend is for class purposes. But, this time he explains that he got more out of it than he usually does. "I also attended the financial crisis lecture and based on that this was a little bit more interesting," confessed Lara.

Dr. Jerry Thompson, a member of the A.R. Sanchez Lecture advisory committee, explained that the committee invited Mr. Henderson as a way to change the pace of the same old lecture. The topic of the lecture, or as Dr. Thompson puts it, "the continued worldwide fascination with Galileo and his bravery and determination" contributed to the decision. He encourages all students to attend the lectures so that can intellectually broaden themselves.

Even though the advisory committee encourages students to attend the lectures, not a lot of publicity is done for them. Lara believes that the lectures series needs more advertisement and claims, "I only heard about the lecture because of the extra credit, if it wasn't for that I wouldn't have heard about it alt all." If the advisory committee for the A.R. Sanchez Distinguished Lecture Series takes this into mind, and continues to bring new and innovative lectures, then extra credit won't be the only incentive to attract students to the audience. If they keep changing the pace, then students will attend on their own will.