MTSU on WGNS: Walker Library special exhibits, True Blue Core launch, Alumni Spring Showcase

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University representatives appeared on WGNS Radio recently to talk about special library exhibits, the university’s new general education curriculum, and an upcoming series of events to draw alumni back to campus.

They appeared on the live “Action Line” program with host Scott Walker broadcast on FM 100.5, 101.9 and AM 1450 from the WGNS studio in downtown Murfreesboro. If you missed it, you can listen to a podcast of the March 18 program.

Middle Tennessee State University representatives appeared on the March 18 WGNS Radio “Action Line” program with host Scott Walker. Pictured, from left in order of appearance, are Susan Martin, Special Collections librarian at the James E. Walker Library, and Susan Hanson, Special Collections curator; MTSU history professor Susan Myers-Shirk, director of MTSU General Education/True Blue Core, and Christina Cobb, associate professor in University Studies; and Beth Dye, assistant director in MTSU Office of Alumni Relations. (MTSU photo illustration by Jimmy Hart)

Guests on the program included:

• Susan Martin, Special Collections librarian at the James E. Walker Library, and Susan Hanson, Special Collections curator, discussed special exhibits celebrating the department’s anniversary and the history of printing.

Special Collectionscelebrated its 25^th anniversary with an open house March 12 and two exhibits highlighting the history of the department and the evolution of printing that remain on display.

A small room at the front of Special Collections displays memorabilia related to its history and will be on display through the end of 2024. Meanwhile, the “Printing for the People: Press and Print in Everyday Life” exhibit will be on display until the end of the semester and features books, correspondence, stamps and advertising items.

• MTSU history professor Susan Myers-Shirk, director of MTSU General Education/True Blue Core, and Christina Cobb, associate professor in University Studies, discussed the new True Blue Core general education curriculum.

Critical thinking, problem-solving and informational literacy are at the heart of the restructured general education program, which will be implemented at the beginning of the fall 2024 semester.

Program changes have been five years in the making, Myers-Shirk said, with the goal of preparing students excel in a dynamic and diverse world. The True Blue Core Committee — comprised of faculty, students and staff — developed guidelines for coursework designed to provide students with relevant skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their majors, careers and beyond, she said.

• Beth Dye, assistant director in MTSU Office of Alumni Relations, discussed Alumni Spring Showcase set for April 5-13.

There’s a little something for everyone — student-led Theatre and Dance production of “The Ruminants,” Positive Aging Conference (March 22 registration deadline), special library exhibits, directing courses for those with arts interest, an Alumni Family Fun Night at the Rec, and wrapping up on the final day with a slate athletics events including Lady Raider tennis and soccer, the Blue Raider Football Spring Game, and Blue Raider baseball — and more on the agenda.

While some events are free and open to the public, others may require registration, tickets or other costs. Also, those alumni visiting campus must have a parking permit to park on campus Monday-Friday, but complimentary parking permits are available at the Alumni House, 2259 Middle Tennessee Blvd. OR you can purchase and print a permit for $2/day. Call the Alumni Office at 615-898-2922 or email alumni@mtsu.edu with questions.

Students, faculty and staff who are interested in guesting on WGNS to promote their MTSU-related activities should contact Jimmy Hart, director of MTSU News and Media Relations, at 615-898-5131 or via email at jimmy.hart@mtsu.edu.