Community Science Series Returns March 15

March 10, 2025 | News, UToday, Alumni, Natural Sciences and Mathematics
By Nicki Gorny



The Saturday Morning Science community series resumes on Saturday, March 15, with the first of five programs covering hot topics in modern science.

“This semester we’re exploring a wide range of topics,” said Dr. Michal Marszewski, a co-organizer and assistant professor of chemistry at The University of Toledo. “There’s something for everyone, from cancer to color theory to climate change. Whether attendees join us for one lecture or the entire series, they’re sure to discover something new. We’re especially excited to offer complimentary activities after select lectures, such as a tour of the Ritter Planetarium and Brooks Observatory, highlighting how UToledo is powering opportunities for learning and research.”

Promotional graphic for the Saturday Morning Science series March 15-April 12 at 10 a.m. in Wolfe Hall Room 1205.Saturday Morning Science is an annual spring series of free, public programs sponsored by the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. UToledo faculty experts and others present areas of expertise in weekly programs geared toward general adult audiences and high school students.

Each program begins at 10 a.m. in Wolfe Hall Room 1205. Free parking will be available until noon in Area 13, excluding disability, metered and reserved spaces.

•  March 15: “Cancer: From Its Origins to Developing Targeted Therapy,” presented by Dr. Mara Livezey, an assistant professor of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of Detroit Mercy.

•  March 22: “Color Theory in Light,” presented by Stephen Sakowski, a professor of lighting and sound design and chair of the Department of Theatre and Film at Toledo. The lecture will be followed by a tour of the UToledo Center for Performing Arts.

•  March 29: “Extreme Weather Events in a Changing Climate,” presented by Ross Ellet, a meteorologist at 13 ABC.

•  April 5: “Water, Water (Isn’t) Everywhere: Is It Safe to Drink?” presented by Dr. Joseph Cotruvo, an adjunct research professor at UToledo who previously worked on drinking water as a director under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The lecture is co-sponsored by the Dr. Nina McClelland Laboratory for Water Chemistry and Environmental Analysis at UToledo.

•  April 12: “The Search for (Ancient Microbial) Life on Mars from Past and Future Studies of Samples,” presented by Dr. Michael Velbel, a professor emeritus in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Michigan State University. The lecture will be followed by a tour of UToledo’s Ritter Planetarium and Brooks Observatory.

A free, light breakfast will be provided prior to each program beginning at 9:30 a.m.

For more information or to watch past programs, go to the Saturday Morning Science website.