Selim Center to Host Talk on 'Communication and Intimacy as We Age'

The Selim Center for Learning in Later Years invites students, faculty and staff to an evening with Dr. Jon Nussbaum, professor of communication arts and sciences, and human development and family studies at Penn State University, on Thursday, April 19. He will speak on “Communication and Intimacy as We Age.”

Dr. Jon Nussbaum

Dr. Jon Nussbaum

Co-sponsored with the Family Studies Department and Alumni Association, the evening begins with dinner at 5:30 p.m., followed by the lecture at 6:20 p.m. in Woulfe Alumni Hall, third floor, Anderson Student Center.

Cost is $29 general admission and $20 for UST students, faculty and staff. The campus community also may choose to attend only the lecture portion of the evening at no charge; UST ID will be required. Entrance for those who wish to attend the lecture only will take place at 6:15 p.m.

Nussbaum notes that “relationship intimacy is critical for each individual as they age and attempt to maintain a high quality of life. Intimacy is best understood as a communicative process involving the constant negotiation of the level, type and physical manifestation of that intimacy. As the nature of intimacy changes across the life span, it is important to recognize and understand the various factors, such as gender, cultural norms, interpersonal skills, and physical limitations that both enhance and limit our ability to maintain a high level of intimacy as we age.”

Nussbaum has published numerous books and journal articles studying communication behaviors and patterns throughout an individual’s life. His current research centers on intimacy across the life span.

Registration is required. Download a registration form here. Forms are due in the Selim Center by Wednesday, April 11. Make checks payable to “University of St. Thomas”; send the check and completed registration form to Mail #LOR309, or bring it to the center in Room 309, Loras Hall, on the university's south campus in St. Paul.

For more information contact the Selim Center, (651) 962-5188.