Skip to Main Content

Library Research Colloquium Series

2019 Fall Library Colloquia

Dr. Mark Hager's Colloquium

Developmental Networks in Young Adult Literature: A Closer Look at Harry Potter

  • Dr. Mark J. Hager, Professor, Psychology

  • November 18, 2019, 1-2PM, Bowman Library Classroom

  • Summary

    • In July 2018, a Google search for “Mentor*, Harry Potter, Dumbledore” yielded 370,000 posts. In June 2019, 530,000 hits appear. Adding “developmental networks” reduces those results to almost none. Focusing on the dyadic relationship between Harry and Dumbledore ignores potent “mentoring moments” (Packard, 2015) Harry experiences with peers and adults. Applying evidence-based theories of mentoring research and developmental networks (Higgins & Kram, 2001) with theories of identity development and possible selves (DuBois, Portillo, Rhodes, Silverthorn, & Valentine, 2011; Markus & Nuria, 1986), this analysis offers a framework to understand and teach about developmental relationships in young adult literature. The Harry Potter series offers numerous instances of both classic and contemporary mentoring roles and provides an opportunity to introduce young adults to the power and value of establishing intentional developmental networks. Hagrid offers the first glimpse of a trusted mentor, introducing Harry to “our world, I mean. Your world. . .” (Rowling, 1997, p. 41). Others accept and challenge Harry’s growing identity while modeling possible selves of the wizarding world. McGonagall sponsors Harry as Quidditch seeker, heightening his self-confidence. Lupin coaches Harry to grow as an individual burdened with great expectations. Dumbledore teaches him about the complex relationship between magic and history and love.

Read more about Dr. Mark J. Hager

Dr. Steiber Research Colloquium 2019

The Silicon Valley Model: Management for Entrepreneurship

  • Dr. Annika Steiber, Director for the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program

  • October 14, 2019, 1-2PM, Bowman Library Classroom

  • Summary

    • In order to be competitive today a firm needs to be fast moving and constantly innovating. What can we learn from Silicon Valley's innovation giants? This lecture will briefly go through the five pillars for Management for Entrepreneurship. The secret sauce of Silicon Valley innovation giants is now disseminating all over the world. Don't be the last to know how to compete in a volatile digital world.

Read more about Dr. Annika Steiber