What would Darwin say? Find out Feb. 11

Feb. 2, 2016

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. - "On the Origin of Species" by Charles Darwin is the book that challenged the way we think about the world and the evolution of the species.

The English naturalist's influence will be explored at Slippery Rock University Feb 11 when Patrick Burkhart, professor of geography, geology, presents a "Darwin's Day" lecture at 7:30 p.m., in the Smith Student Center Theater.

Burkhart said he will hypothesize about how Darwin would react to contemporary scientific issues such as global warming, species extinction and even how he would advise students to choose a major in 2016.

Jason Hilton, SRU assistant professor of secondary education, will introduce Burkhart.

Darwin (1809-1882) established the theory of evolution, which argues that all life descended over time from common ancestors. He postulated that species evolved through a process of natural selection, or survival of the fittest.

Darwin Day commemorates the 207th anniversary of Darwin's Feb. 12, 1809 birthday. The day will highlight Darwin's contributions to science and promote science at SRU.

Burkhart, who joined SRU in 1998, teaches earth sciences, with a focus on hydrology, glaciers and tectonics. In 2015, he was appointed chairman of the joint technical program committee for the 2015 Geological Society of America's annual meeting.

SRU's Office of Transformational Experiences and Bailey Library are sponsoring Darwin Day.

MEDIA CONTACT: Gordon Ovenshine | 724.738.4854 | gordon.ovenshine@sru.edu