This year's featured performers and speakers have very different backgrounds and stories but they all share one thing: the courage to be bold. We hope they inspire you to discover your passions, open your mind to new ideas, and to be brave and live boldly.
All events are FREE and open to the public. For more information or accommodations, call 715-425-4444.
Featured Speaker Zach Wahls Presents: "What Makes a Family?"
Wednesday, October 3
7:30 p.m.
Riverview Ballroom, University Center
"What makes a family?" Zach Wahls tried to answer that very question when he testified before the Iowa House Judiciary Committee in January, 2011. The son of two lesbian mothers, the 19-year-old University of Iowa engineering student had no idea that his heartfelt testimony would spread like viral wildfire. Now the author of his new book, My Two Moms: Lessons of Love, Strength, and What Makes a Family, Zach shares a story that has never before been told, and offers a fresh, bold perspective on a recently rekindled and contentious issue: gay marriage. Like any family's story, Zach's is one of highs and lows, laughs and tribulations. Regardless of your beliefs on marriage equality in our country, this lecture will offer you a unique, personal perspective. *My Two Moms: Lessons of Love, Strength, and What Makes a Family will be available for purchase in the University Center Falcon Shop as well as at the program.
Click here to view Zach Wahls' testimony and website
Mu Performing Arts Presents: Mu Daiko (Japanese Drumming)
Wednesday, November 14
7:30 p.m.
Abbot Concert Hall, Kleinpell Fine Arts
Mu (pronounced 'MOO') is the Korean pronunciation of the Chinese character for theshaman/artist/warrior that connects the heavens and the earth through the tree of life. Mu Performing Arts produces intentional performances born of arts, equality, and justice, from the heart of the Asian American experience. Mu Daiko drumming ensemble performs a variety of traditional and contemporary works, ranging from traditional taiko repertoire to original pieces composed by its members. The group regularly premieres new work and strives to stretch the boundaries of the art form, contributing to the innovation of American taiko. UW-River Falls is pleased to present this visually stunning and overall powerful performance.
Click here to learn more about Mu Performing Arts
Carnaval Brasileiro! (Brazilian Carnival)
Thursday, February 14
7:30 pm
Riverview Ballroom, University Center
Brazilian "Carnaval" (car-nah-VOW), the biggest celebration in the world, is coming to UW-River Falls! This event will feature the phenomenal 10-piece band, Beira Mar Brasil, complete with a horn section and loads of heart-pounding hand percussion. Beira Mar Brasil, led by Robert Everest and his very special guests, has become one of the most authentic and engaging Brazilian bands in the Midwest. Join us for this high-energy event featuring Brazilian music, food, dancing, and art!
Featured Speaker Jose Vargas presents: "How Do We Define American?"
Wednesday, March 13
7:30 pm
Riverview Ballroom, University Center
A Pulitzer Prize winning journalist writing for some of the most prestigious news organizations in the country, Jose Antonio Vargas' personal journey contends with some of the most fascinating stories he's covered, living a double life since he was 16 years old. After being born in the Philippines, his mother, wanting to give her son a better life, sent him to live with his grandparents in Silicon Valley. At 16, when applying for his learner's permit, Vargas discovered his green card was not valid and realized he needed to hide his true identity to avoid deportation and be able to pursue his American dream – a career in journalism. Vargas exposed his story in his groundbreaking essay, "My Life as an Undocumented Immigrant," for the New York Times Magazine, stunning the media and political circles and attracting world-wide coverage. Vargas will discuss his personal journey and his current a non-profit organization, Define American, which seeks to elevate the conversation around immigration.
Featured Earth Week Speaker: Julia Butterfly Hill 
Wednesday, April 24
7:30pm
Abbott Concert Hall, Kleinpell Fine Arts
For 738 days Julia Butterfly Hill lived in the canopy of an ancient redwood tree, called Luna, to help make the world aware of the plight of ancient forests. Her courageous act of civil disobedience gained international attention for the redwoods as well as other environmental and social justice issues. Her story is chronicled in her book The Legacy of Luna: The Story of a Tree, a Woman, and the Struggle to Save the Redwoods, which was followed by her environmental "handbook" One Makes the Difference. Julia Butterfly Hill's commitment and profound clarity in articulating a message of hope, empowerment, and love and respect for all life has inspired millions of people worldwide to take action in their own communities. *The Legacy of Luna will be available for purchase in the University Center Falcon Shop as well as at the program.