POTSDAM -- SUNY Potsdam will convene a History and Future Conversation Series in honor of its 200th anniversary, featuring presentations and panel discussions throughout the 2015-16 academic year.

The series will kick off next week, with a discussion, "The History and Future of Arts and Sciences at SUNY Potsdam," to be held on Friday, Sept. 11 at 4 p.m., in the Dunn Theater. This event is free, and the public is invited to attend.

To open the event, bicentennial intern Paul Halley will present his short film exploring his seven-month internship with the College Libraries and Archives, and how his applied learning experience has inspired his passion for the liberal arts.

Immediately following, there will be a panel discussion, exploring the legacy of the arts and sciences in the curriculum and its key role for the college's future.

The panelists include Dr. Steven Marqusee, dean of SUNY Potsdam's School of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Galen Pletcher, dean emeritus of The School of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Richard Del Guidice, dean emeritus of The School of Arts and Sciences; and Marilyn Fayette, secretary for The School of Arts and Sciences.

"The panel discussion will examine liberal arts as an educational idea and will explore the fundamental meaning of arts and sciences in its relationship to SUNY Potsdam's academic landscape," Halley said.

Upcoming History and Future Conversation Series events include discussions about Greek and fraternal organizations, veteran experiences, African-American experiences, higher education in the North Country, women's leadership and the impact of Nadia Boulanger and Helen Hosmer at the college and beyond.

Founded in 1816 as the St. Lawrence Academy, the institution known today as SUNY Potsdam has been pioneering in learning and leadership for nearly 200 years.

To keep track of all the bicentennial events taking place in 2015-16, visit www.potsdam.edu/200.