By Regina Duffy
In the run-up to Election Day on Nov. 3, Falvey Memorial Library is working with a group of campus partners to present a lineup of virtual events that’s intended to spark meaningful dialogue within the Villanova Community. This election cycle falls during a pivotal moment for the United States; not only are grappling with a global pandemic, but also we are confronting many issues of social justice as a nation. Our virtual events will feature several faculty experts from across Villanova who will explore topics related to the contentious presidential race during this unsettling time. Join us to learn more and be a part of the conversation.

Camille Burge, PhD, on “Examining the Roles of Race and Emotions in the 2020 Election”
First up in the series is Camille Burge, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, who will discuss “Examining the Roles of Race and Emotions in the 2020 Election” on Thursday, Oct. 8, 1-2 p.m. During the talk, Dr. Burge will address how we’re all feeling during this pandemic as well as our collective emotional reactions to a number of issues, including police brutality, #BlackLivesMatter, protests, #MeToo, hyperpolarization, and more.
Zoom join link for event attendees: https://villanova.zoom.us/j/94050688544
Note: Attendees must be logged into a Zoom account to be able to access this webinar.
Matthew R. Kerbel, PhD, on “The State of the Contest, Election Day, and What Happens Next”
Next, please join us for a talk by Matthew R. Kerbel, PhD, Interim Associate Vice Provost for Teaching and Learning, Professor, Department of Political Science, on Thursday, Oct. 22, 1-2 p.m., for
an update on the state of the contest and a discussion of what things could look like on Election Day and during the weeks afterwards. Dr. Kerbel will describe how in the midst of a pandemic and with an incumbent casting doubt on the legitimacy of the vote, Americans are going to the polls to decide an election that could have more far-reaching consequences than any in our lifetime.
Zoom join link for event attendees: https://villanova.zoom.us/j/92278872069
Note: Attendees must be logged into a Zoom account to be able to access this webinar.
Faculty Panel on “The Meaning of an Election in a Pandemic Year”
Finally, on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., join us for a panel of faculty experts who will discuss the meaning of the election in a pandemic year. Billie Murray, PhD, Associate
Professor, Department of Communication, will discuss how the recent movement for Black lives has influenced the 2020 election, and how such movements can also work to transcend electoral politics. Danielle N. Gadson, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration, will talk about how fodder for single-issue politics in past elections, the ubiquitous effects of public health policy will be a critical consideration this election year for every voting demographic. Tim Horner, DPhil, Teaching Professor, Center for Peace and Justice Education, Augustine and Culture Seminar Program, will give us a global perspective of the upcoming election.
Zoom join link for event attendees: https://villanova.zoom.us/j/97949390141
Note: Attendees must be logged into a Zoom account to be able to access this webinar.
This ACS-approved event series is co-sponsored by Falvey Memorial Library in collaboration with the Center for Peace and Justice Education, the Department of Political Science, the Department of Communication, the Department of Public Administration, and Let’s Vote Nova. Join us and make sure that you get out and vote!

Regina Duffy is a Communication and Marketing Program Manager at Falvey Memorial Library.