Rome, Ga. – Shorter University’s Department of Social Sciences will host a symposium on the 100^th anniversary of the Spanish flu pandemic on Friday, April 6, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Price Learning Center.

The event is open to the public at no charge.

Speakers will include Shorter University faculty members Dr. Charles Carter, assistant professor of history; Dr. Terry Morris, professor of history; and Ms. Lisa Keith, associate professor of biology.

Dr. Carter will discuss the historical effects of the pandemic on the history of Europe and the history of modern medicine. Dr. Morris will discuss the survival and death of famous people during the pandemic. Ms. Keith will give a biological/immunological perspective on the germs behind the disease.

“Claiming the lives of between 20 and 50 million people worldwide, the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918 was one of modern history’s most horrific medical crises,” Dr. Carter said. “This year marks the 100^th anniversary of this event. I think it is of immense importance for students of the past to know how this event not only affected the lives of millions back then, but also to learn how the tragedy led to an intense focus on medical research from which subsequent generations have benefited.”

Founded in 1873, Shorter University is a Christ-centered, four-year liberal arts university committed to excellence in education. U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review annually include Shorter on their lists of best Southeastern Colleges. The university offers traditional bachelor’s degrees in 40 areas of study, online courses and degree programs, undergraduate programs for working adults, associate’s, and master’s programs.