Beaver

Public invited to attend free program on television's role in society

Matt Glowacki will present a free program, “Diversity According to South Park and Family Guy,” from 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, 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 believes animated comedies can be instrumental in teaching and reinforcing morals and values of young adults.

Glowacki explains 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 strangle hold on morality in our culture.

Glowacki examines how 'Family Guy' and 'South Park' break down stereotypical attitudes and behavior. His interpretation of popular cultural icons is designed to educate as well as encourage people to take a fresh look at life and his goal is to prompt television viewers to question the purpose, moral and ways in which shows reflect today’s culture.

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.

The 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.

 

Last Updated September 6, 2011

Contact