University for a Day - A Schemel Forum Collaborative Program

Join us for a continental breakfast and three “classes.” The 'New Right' and the Old Liberalism of John Courtney Murray, S.J.  In the 1950s and 60s, American Jesuit John Courtney Murray made cogent arguments for American political liberalism on traditional Catholic grounds. Although they came to seem irrelevant once the global liberal order appeared unrivalled, Murray’s arguments have become vitally important again as liberal democratic structures and institutions have come under severe and persistent attack including by "New Right" postliberal Catholics like Patrick Deneen and Adrian Vermeule, influential figures shaping J.D. Vance's politics. This class retrieves from Murray's old-school Catholic defense of American political liberalism key resources to move beyond our Christian nationalist moment, without merely sending us back to a purely secular liberal trajectory.Will Cohen, Ph.D., Professor of Theology, College of Arts & Sciences, University of ScrantonStress, Mindfulness, and Resilience: Small Changes, Big Results!Stress touches every life, but does it always have to be a negative force? In this course, we will explore how stress impacts the mind and body through the lens of human adaptation and resilience. With a focus on coping and well-being, we will explore the use of mindfulness as a tool for living more fully in the present moment. We will practice evidence-based techniques which can serve to strengthen resilience, enhance self-awareness, and promote overall wellness.Katherine J. Stefanelli, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, Assistant Professor of Counseling and Human Services, Leahy College of Health Sciences, University of ScrantonEvaluating Alternative College Football Playoff Structures: A Multi-Perspective Analysis of Commercial Value, Game Quality, and Championship Path DifficultyThis lecture uses research from data analytics and simulation to evaluate different College Football Playoff formats. By comparing alternative playoff structures, the study explores how tournament design can influence game quality, championship opportunities, and the overall commercial value of college football. The project demonstrates how analytics can help organizations make better decisions in sports, business, and other real-world settings. David A. Mahalak, D.Eng., Assistant Professor of Operations & Analytics, Kania School of Management, University of Scranton Saturday, September 19, 2026, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm I DeNaples Moskovitz Theater I Register at www.scranton.edu/schemelforum