Some of the nation’s most prominent newsmakers—in fields ranging from athletics to the sciences—will share their stories during the University of Georgia’s 2016 Alumni Seminar, April 29-May 1.

The three-day seminar—which is open to UGA alumni and anyone interested in lifelong learning—begins with an opening dinner and an address from UGA alumna and award-winning ABC News journalist Deborah Roberts. Events continue through May 1 with lectures, behind-the-scenes tours and interactive seminars.

“The Alumni Seminar provides an in-depth look at some of the exciting things that make this university distinctive,” said President Jere W. Morehead. “Alumni and friends alike will learn a great deal over the course of the weekend from some of our most notable students, faculty and alumni who are shaping the future of our nation and world.”

In addition to the opening dinner with Roberts—who has traveled the world for “20/20” and “World News Tonight” and recently published a book with husband Al Roker—highlights of the 2016 Alumni Seminar include:

-A talk by Ted Ross, Georgia Research Alliance Eminent Scholar in Infectious Diseases and director of UGA’s Center for Vaccines and Immunology, on his work to develop and test a vaccine for the Zika virus.

-A dinner with alumnus and NASA program manager Roger Hunter, who will discuss the newest satellite technologies and his role in leading a mission that has discovered more than 1,000 planets.

-A talk by alumnus Larry Bowers, chief scientific officer of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, on the deterrence and detection of banned substances in athletics.

-Tours of UGA’s new Veterinary Teaching Hospital and a behind-the-scenes hard-hat tour of its Science Learning Center, which will open in August.

-A lunch with Vice President for Public Service and Outreach Jennifer Frum, who will share headline-making news in outreach across the state and nation.

-A presentation by doctoral student Hannah Morris on her role in an archeological expedition that discovered fossils belonging to a newly discovered species of human.

-A private screening of footage from the Peabody Awards Collection in honor of its 75th anniversary.
Meredith Gurley Johnson, executive director of alumni relations, noted that the seminar—which is now in its third year—attracts alumni and supporters from across Georgia and around the nation.

“The Alumni Seminar is the perfect opportunity for both alumni and friends of the university to return to campus and experience firsthand the incredible research, service and teaching taking place at UGA,” said Johnson. “This annual event draws lifelong learners to Athens, where they will be immersed in the vibrant academic environment that is propelling our students to success. It really is a special and memorable opportunity for those who are both inquisitive and love the University of Georgia.”

Registration for the three-day seminar is $290 per person, and space is limited. A supplemental evening reception and dining package for non-attendee spouses/guests may be purchased for $115. Lodging for the seminar is available at the Georgia Center’s UGA Hotel and Conference Center. For more information or to register online, see www.alumni.uga.edu/alumniseminar.