The Northern Plains Ethics Institute at North Dakota State University has planned a public forum, titled "Land Grant Traditions: Past and Present," for Tuesday, Feb. 23, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Reineke Fine Arts Center's Beckwith Recital Hall. Thomas Isern, University Distinguished Professor, will lead a panel discussion that will examine the Morrill Act of 1862 and consider what it means to be a land grant university, both historically and for the future. An audience question and answer session will follow the discussion.

Panelists include NDSU president Richard Hanson, Mark Meister, associate professor of communications and president of NDSU University Senate, and James Carlson, founder of PRACS Institute.

According to John Helgeland, NDSU professor of religious studies and director of the Northern Plains Ethics Institute, the Morrill Act was not intended to focus solely on mechanical, technical and economic matters as if by themselves these pursuits could bring a completely satisfying life to the nation. "The act encourages scientific and classical studies and promotes the liberal and practical education of the industrial classes," he said.

This event is open to the public and light refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Kathleen Cox at (701) 231-5121 or kathleen.t.cox@ndsu.edu.