Science Cafe explores evolution of public health

This week's Science Cafe is presented in partnership with Opera Omaha and its production of "La fanciulla del West (The Girl of the Golden West)."

Barbara Hewins-Maroney, Ph.D., an associate professor of urban studies and public administration at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, will discuss public health policy in early Omaha at the next Omaha Science Cafe at 7 p.m., Feb. 9 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St.

Dr. Hewins-Maroney received a doctorate in educational psychology from UNO, an undergraduate degree in sociology, a master’s degree in urban studies from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of New Mexico.

Her teaching interests include:

  • public health;
  • civic engagement; and
  • metropolitan development.

She is currently involved in historical research focusing on African-Americans in Nebraska and public health policies and practices that affect that population. She also does research on educational policies and practices affecting diversity initiatives in the public sector.

This Science Cafe is presented in partnership with Opera Omaha and its production of “La fanciulla del West (The Girl of the Golden West),” which is sung in Italian with English supertitles. The opera will be performed Feb. 12 and 14 at the Orpheum Theater.

Set in the saloon of a California mining camp during the Gold Rush, La fanciulla del West (The Girl of the Golden West) has all the grit and grandeur of a great western film. Puccini’s soaring melodies provide the heartbeat of a dramatic love story filled with passion, redemption, and forgiveness. This production will be directed by Lillian Groag (Carmen, 2013) and is part of Westward O!, a citywide arts festival celebrating the frontier and American West.

Science Cafes involve a face-to-face conversation with a scientist about current science topics. They are open to everyone (21 and older) and take place in casual settings like pubs and coffeehouses. Each meeting is organized around an interesting topic of conversation. A scientist gives a brief presentation followed by a question and answer period.

Pizza will be provided for the first 50 people. For more information about Science Cafes, click here. Podcasts of previous Science Cafes also are available on the website or available for download on iTunes here.