A campus group composed of senior scholars has initiated a new lecture series that will debut in March. The Academy of Scholars is launching "University Forum," a brown-bag luncheon series that will feature presentations by younger faculty.

Academy President Melvin Small, professor of history, said the new series is the brainchild of Professor Emeritus of Physiology Piero Foa, who wants to create a venue for younger faculty and graduate students to speak to their colleagues across the disciplines.

"It is a response to President (Irvin D.) Reid's charge to the Academy to increase its role in developing the intellectual life of the campus," Small said. "He recognized that role when he asked the presidents of the Academy to lead the procession at Commencement."

Founded in 1979, the Academy recognizes excellence in scholarship and creative achievements by faculty members of WSU. Over the past 21 years, 58 members have been accepted into the Academy. Thirty-eight are currently on-campus active members. Membership is for life.

The speakers in this new lecture series will explain to colleagues in other fields the latest developments in their specialties.

"Among other things," Small said, "the Forum will help to develop a more cohesive intellectual community on campus as scientists, humanists, social scientists, those in the fine arts and others will come together to consider topics of special interest."

The first University Forum will be 12:30 to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 8, in room 4339 Faculty/Administration Building, and will feature Law Professor Christopher Peters speaking on federalism and the Supreme Court.

On Monday, April 3, Professor of Physiology Janice Schwartz will discuss breast cancer in room 3339 Faculty/Administration Building.

Both lectures are free and open to the public. For more information, call (313) 577-6138.