Beaver

Learn how 'South Park' and 'Family Guy' inform attitudes and behavior

Matt Glowacki will present a free program, "Diversity According to 'South Park' and 'Family Guy,'" noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, in the auditorium of the Penn State Beaver Student Union Building. The program is open to the public.

Glowacki notes that "programs operating on the fringes of societal acceptance often have a more developed, logical, and inclusive view of our society than the entities which seek a stranglehold on morality in our culture." He examines how popular TV shows such as "Family Guy" and "South Park" break down stereotypical attitudes and behavior. He says that his interpretation of popular cultural icons is designed to educate as well as encourage people to take a fresh look at life. His goal is to prompt television viewers to question how TV shows' purpose and morals reflect today's culture, and he believes animated comedies can be instrumental in teaching and reinforcing morals and values for young adults.

Glowacki, who was born without legs in 1973, is a competitive athlete focused on promoting achievement and excellence in all areas of life, including competitive sports, the corporate world, and the community. He is a member of the USA Paralympic Team for Sit-Volleyball, traveled and competed internationally with the team and attended the Paralympics in Australia and the World Championship in Egypt. He also served as the alternate for the Paralympics in Athens.

Glowacki holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and a minor in United States history from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. This program is sponsored by the Office of Student Affairs and Student Activities.

For information, contact Robin Schreck, coordinator of student activities and residence life, at ras62@psu.edu or 724-773-3947, or visit www.beaver.psu.edu and click on Student Life.

 

Last Updated January 9, 2015

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