Renowned Science Communicator to Deliver NEA Big Read Virtual Keynote

Emily Grasile, acclaimed science communicator and “Chief Curiosity Correspondent” at the Field Museum in Chicago, will present the virtual keynote address as part of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Big Read at Duquesne.

The event—which was originally scheduled for March 2020—will take place Friday, Aug. 21, at 11 a.m.

Duquesne was selected as a recipient of the NEA Big Read—the only organization in Pennsylvania to receive the prestigious grant in 2019. The Big Read is designed to broaden the understanding of the world, communities and each other through the enjoyment of a book.

The NEA Big Read programming focused on the book Lab Girl by Hope Jahren, a geobiologist, writer and advocate for women and girls in science. Lab Girl is a memoir documenting Jahren’s successes and sacrifices as she navigates financial instability and mental illness in a field traditionally dominated by men.

Gumberg Library hosted events and book discussions throughout the spring 2020 semester until the COVID-19 pandemic forced the University to operate remotely. Now, as part of orientation, incoming freshmen will each receive a free copy of Lab Girl.

For more information and to register, visit the NEA Big Read at Duquesne webpage.