UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development at Penn State will host a special event, "Introduction to Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention for Any Professional," from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 16, in 107 Pasquerilla Spiritual Center, Memorial Lounge. The event also will be available via Zoom.

Max Pensky, professor of philosophy and co-director of the Institute for Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention at Binghamton University, will lead the discussion. Pensky is an internationally recognized scholar in political theory, international law and transitional justice. His research focuses on the normative foundations of current practices in transitional justice, the political demands on post-conflict states, and the relationship between domestic and international criminal law.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the basics of genocide and mass atrocity prevention, a crucial field in today's global landscape. Pensky will provide insights into how professionals across all disciplines can play a role in preventing mass atrocities and repairing communities affected by them.

"This event is an important opportunity to bring the field of genocide and mass atrocity prevention (GMAP) to Penn State," said Collin Wildridge, program coordinator for the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development. "As we see atrocities reignite across the world, we here on campus can become part of the solutions, prevention and repair. Dr. Pensky is a respected expert who teaches both the theory and practice of GMAP. He can help us build the skills and develop the knowledge we need to be part of the prevention and repair of mass atrocities, no matter our professional or academic role."

Students, faculty and staff from all backgrounds are encouraged to attend. Whether in international law, political science or other fields, the session will offer valuable lessons applicable to any professional interested in making a positive impact on the world.

For more information, contact the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development, a unit in the division of Student Affairs, at spiritual@psu.edu.