William Penn University Students to Host Community Forum Event
04/16/2019
For Immediate Release
William Penn University Students to Host Community Forum Event
Students will conduct a three-day seminar on noise pollution
(OSKALOOSA, Iowa) – Students in the Sociology of Contemporary Issues course, taught by Dr. Michael Johnston at William Penn University, have partnered with students in Principles of Communication, taught by Dr. Samantha Allen, to conduct a seminar on the effects of noise pollution on local residents. Beginning April 16th and running through April 18th, the group will host a three-day open forum styled event from 6:30-7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:00 p.m.) in PAC Classroom 209 in the Penn Activity Center on the Oskaloosa campus.
The program is focusing on noise pollution to educate the audience on how it impacts communities and those who live near loud areas.
“The message I want to send the audience is that it’s a chance to learn about noise pollution and the impact that it has on the population,” Johnston said.
Noise pollution is defined by Merriam-Webster Dictionary as, “annoying or harmful noise in an environment.” According to Johnston, low income community members suffer from the effects of noise pollution because of the locations of their homes near railroad tracks and high traffic areas. Long-term effects of noise pollution can include agitation, sleep deprivation, headaches, deafening, and long-term mental health issues.
WPU students are taking charge in the event with the hope of garnering open communication from all people in attendance. The professors hope students gain experience on hosting a panel discussion and lead people to understand community influences.
“Please come with an open mind and to be willing to talk about noise pollution and the impact it has on people” Johnston said.
The following is the line up for student speakers on their respective days:
Tuesday, April 16: Hallie Hebl, Lauren Carlson, Samuel Watts, and Kirkland Crocker
Wednesday, April 17: Amy Russell, Nicole Lancaster, Olivia Erdelt, Marleah Drake, and Talaysia Douver
Thursday, April 18: Briana Welcome, Jacob Taylor, Shayleigh Brinegar, and Anthony Bodily
The three-day event is free and open to the public.
For more information, contact:
Miranda Keeler
Marketing & Communication Manager
641-6731078 | keelerm@wmpenn.edu