(MURRAY, Ky.) — Murray State University’s College of Humanities and Fine Arts has unveiled an ambitious new program designed to help people navigate and thrive in an increasingly complex world.
The Humanities+ Series, launching in the 2025-26 academic year, promises to deliver a fresh approach to education that extends far beyond traditional classroom boundaries. The initiative aims to equip individuals with essential skills for personal and professional success through a carefully curated blend of public lectures, workshops, and cultural programming.
“University life at its best is all about learning opportunities that are exciting, innovative and dynamic,” explained Dr. Josh Adair, Professor in the Department of English and Philosophy and the program’s coordinator. “The Humanities+ Series exemplifies all those qualities, while also building community and professional networks that can last a lifetime.”
The series will spotlight the expertise of Murray State faculty, students, and alumni alongside distinguished guest speakers from various fields including arts, humanities, and social sciences. What sets this program apart is its focus on practical life skills that address contemporary challenges facing individuals today.
Fall 2025 Programming Tackles Timely Topics
The inaugural semester features four compelling presentations that tackle some of today’s most pressing concerns:
The series opens September 11 with “Cultivating Attention in a Time of Great Distraction,” a timely collaboration between Dr. Matthew Robertson from History and Dr. Mike Bordieri from Psychology. The presentation will explore meditation and mindfulness practices as antidotes to our hyperconnected age.
Two weeks later, Dr. Stephanie Rea from the Department of Music will address “Creativity as a Life Skill in the Age of AI” on September 25. Her presentation promises to examine how individuals can discover and develop creativity across all areas of life, emphasizing adaptability and inspiration in an era of rapid technological change.
October brings Dr. Esther Malm from Psychology, who will share insights from her longevity research in “The Science of a Super Life: Applying Longevity Principles for Success” on October 23. Malm’s work focuses on “blue zones” — regions worldwide known for exceptional longevity and quality of life among their residents.
The semester concludes November 13 with Dr. T.J. Martinson from English and Philosophy presenting “Creativity Without Suffering,” which challenges traditional notions about the creative process and offers practical approaches to sustainable artistic practice.
Documentary Screenings Add Visual Dimension
Complementing the lecture series, three documentary screenings will provide additional perspectives on the program’s themes. “The Mindfulness Movement” screens September 9, followed by “Our Fires Still Burn: The Native American Experience” on October 14, and “Call of the Forest” on November 11.
The comprehensive programming reflects the university’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges through interdisciplinary approaches. By drawing on expertise from multiple departments, the series demonstrates how humanities education can provide practical tools for contemporary living.
All Humanities+ Series events are scheduled for 4 p.m. in Faculty Hall room 208 and are free and open to the public. The initiative represents Murray State’s ongoing effort to serve both campus and community members with accessible, high-quality educational programming.
Adair believes the program’s impact will extend well beyond individual events. “I anticipate that it will enrich participants’ lives in unexpected, inspiring ways,” he said, emphasizing the series’ potential for building lasting connections and professional networks.
For complete scheduling information and updates, visit murraystate.edu/humanities or contact Dr. Josh Adair at jadair1@murraystate.edu.