How I Helped My Mom with Dementia
In this post, Professor Paul Gardner shares his experience of his mom entering the world of dementia, facing it with denial, and learning about ways he could have helped her enjoy her last memories.
An Iowa College in the Liberal Arts Tradition
Ideas and Creations
The ideas and viewpoints expressed in the posts on the Ideas and Creations blog are solely the view of the author(s). Luther College's mission statement calls us to "embrace diversity and challenge one another to learn in community," and to be "enlivened and transformed by encounters with one another, by the exchange of ideas, and by the life of faith and learning." Alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends of the college are encouraged to express their views, model "good disagreement" and engage in respectful dialogue.
Real World Impact of Academic Research
Learn how Zoom technology made it possible for Professor Anita Carrasco to include (for the first time) community members she was researching in her courses and how it serves as a tool to teach and inspire others.
COVID-19, Vaccines, and Viral Variants—What Comes Next in the Pandemic?
Learn why the scientific community is optimistic yet cautious when it comes to the latest developments of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Data Science Enabled COVID-19 Surveillance Systems
In this post, Professor Shad shares how data science can help protect humankind against infectious diseases like COVID-19.
Developing Herd Immunity Against COVID-19
In this post, Professor Strand explains how the COVID-19 vaccine can help us return to a state of normalcy sooner and protect our communities during this pandemic.
Luther's Ballroom and Swing Club Continues Through Pandemic
While the pandemic has certainly not changed the club’s mission, it has impacted how its goals are realized.
The Spirit of Welcome in the Black Church
Learn why Pastor Foss believes that Black History Month is an invitation for discovery and how it reminds him of his own experience with the presence and power of the Black Church.
Staying Active in Cold Temperatures
Get some ideas on how you can keep moving and have fun even when it's cold outside.
Giving Day 2021 Provides Meaningful Way to Connect
Read how Megan Torkelson (Luther's Gnome-in-Chief) is working to unite the Luther community with a day dedicated to supporting the college and its students.
Dance Program Bridges Divide Between the Education of the Body and Mind
In this post, Professor Hawley shares what she's learned in her research and how dance can be used to express yourself and create connections during this challenging time.
Amid Uncertainty, Luther Concert Band Implements COVID-19 Safety Measures, Addresses Anti-Racism, and Provides Real-World Experiences
Professor Cory Near shares how the ensemble has used this time to rehearse, perform, and explore new topics relating to music.
What Is Happening in America?
In this post, professor emeritus Gardner reflects on the January 6, 2021 mob attack on the Capitol and reminds us how the words of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution call for a more perfect union and extension of liberty to all Americans.