Jefferson Dinner Series: Evenings Full Of Intellectual Discovery
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About the Jefferson Dinner Series
Thomas Jefferson was renowned for his gourmet dinners accompanied by fine wines. At these events, guests gathered in a circle, sitting as equals, engaging in captivating discussions inspired by thought-provoking questions.
Their conversations weren’t centered on diplomacy, tax nuances, or the disputes between Democrats and Republicans in Congress. Rather, they explored deeper themes: the exchange of ideas, the essence of enlightenment, and the true purposes of life.
Drawing inspiration from this tradition, Reliance College is excited to revive these intellectual dinners! Join us for an unforgettable evening of camaraderie, enlightenment, and dialogue.
Previous Events
Woodside, California - September 12th, 2024
On September 12th, 2024, Reliance College hosted a memorable Jefferson Dinner at The Mountain Terrace in Woodside, California, gathering thought leaders, educators, and advocates of liberty for an evening of intellectual discovery. The event, inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s tradition of engaging conversations over gourmet meals, focused on “Education for a Free Society.”
Attendees participated in thought-provoking discussions, exploring how education can foster autonomy, critical thinking, and self-reliance. Marsha Familaro Enright, founder of Reliance College, shared her vision for a transformative liberal arts curriculum, and alumni of The Great Connections seminar spoke about the lasting impact of this unique educational approach. The dinner highlighted Reliance College’s commitment to developing independent thinkers who will lead a free society.
New York City - May 16, 2024
Reliance College hosted a remarkable Jefferson Dinner in New York City at the prestigious Union League Club on May 16, 2024. The evening featured an engaging talk by Lenore Skenazy, renowned for her advocacy of childhood independence through the Free Range Kids movement.
With a humorous and thought-provoking presentation, Lenore tackled the timely issue of “Anxious Parents Raising Anxious Kids: What That Means for College.” The dinner brought together an intimate group of fifty attendees, fostering lively discussions that embraced Jefferson’s tradition of thought-provoking dialogue.
Guests enjoyed gourmet dining and deep conversations, all in support of Reliance College’s mission to cultivate independent thinking and real-world skills.
President and Co-Founder, Let Grow
Ever since her column “Why I Let My 9-Year-Old Ride the Subway Alone” created a media firestorm, Lenore has been declaring that our kids are safer and smarter than our culture gives them credit for. In response to the blowback, she started Free-Range Kids, the blog-turned-book-turned-movement that garnered her the nickname, “America’s Worst Mom.”
Chicago, Illinois - March 10th, 2023
On Friday, March 10th, 2023, from 5:00-9:00 PM, Reliance College inaugurated its Jefferson Dinner Series, an event that lived up to its promise of combining conviviality, learning, and engaging discussions.
The evening was highlighted by a fascinating talk from Dr. Stephen R. C. Hicks, who delved into the subject of What is Entrepreneurial Education and Why We Need It Now. His profound insights not only enlightened attendees on the current importance of entrepreneurial education but also underlined its necessity in today’s dynamic world.
After Dr. Hicks’ illuminating lecture, attendees delved deeper into the topic through guided discussions at their respective tables. This segment showcased the unique Reliance College educational method, fostering an atmosphere where every participant contributed, learned, and shared insights.
It was indeed a memorable evening that blended fine dining with intellectual stimulation. We look forward to more such enlightening events in the series.
Dr. Stephen R. C. Hicks, Ph. D.
Dr. Hicks is a philosopher and professor of philosophy at Rockford University as well as the world-renowned author of Explaining Postmodernism: From Rousseau to Foucault, now translated into nine languages. He speaks and teaches in such far flung places as Australia, Norway, and Poland, as well as Illinois.
Charlotte, North Carolina - June 7th, 2023
On Wednesday, June 7th, Reliance College hosted its Jefferson Dinner at the esteemed Charlotte City Club in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Barbara Oakley
The highlight of the evening was the presence of special guest Barbara Oakley, an acclaimed engineering professor renowned for her expertise in learning practices and STEM education.
Oakley is the driving force behind one of the world’s most celebrated online courses, Learning How To Learn, and is recognized for her best-selling book, A Mind For Numbers.
The attendees were intrigued as Oakley took the stage to share her perspectives in her talk titled, “The Road to Education is Paved with Good Intentions…” Her insights provided food for thought, emphasizing the intricacies and challenges of the educational realm.
Following her enlightening presentation, participants delved into guided discussions, a perfect platform to experience the unique educational methods championed by Reliance College. The animated discussions centered around education, philosophy, and culture, enabling attendees to connect and share varied perspectives.
It was an evening that truly celebrated the essence of learning, discussion, and connection, living up to the promises and reputation of the Jefferson Dinners.
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