Mankato – The Blue Earth County Historical Society is excited to host History Professor Matt Loayza, on Saturday, August 15 at 10 a.m. at the History Center to present, “Mankato Navigate the 1960s-70s.” This program is in conjunction with the History Book Club, but you do not need to be a member to attend. Program cost is $10/person for non-Book Club Members.

Matt Loayza is a Professor of History at Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he has taught courses in U.S. History and the History of U.S. Foreign Relations since 2003. He has published articles on cultural diplomacy in Diplomacy and Statecraft and Diplomatic History as well as articles on teaching in Passport: the Newsletter of the Society of the Society for Historians of American Foreign Policy. His current research interests focus on antiwar activist Mitchell Goodman during his time at Mankato State College in the Vietnam era, and he has presented this work at various conferences over the past year, most recently the Peace History Society Biennial Conference.

About the History Book Club

The BECHS History Book Club is a quarterly book club that goes beyond a classic group book read and discussion. Over three months, while participants read the book, additional monthly sessions will include discussion of the book’s setting and social history, a special presentation on a related historical topic, and conclude with a group book discussion. This program is $50 for the 3-part series.

BECHS History Book Club Sessions: Not The Camilla We Knew

July 18, 10 a.m. – At this first session, books will be available to pick up. In addition, the group will be introduced to the History Book Club format, historical context about the book’s setting, and address any questions participants may have. Additional books will be purchased if not enough are available for the first session.

August 15, 10 a.m. – Special guest, Professor Matt Loayza “Mankato Navigates the 1960s-70s”

September 19, 10 a.m. – Special guest, Author Rachael Hanel

This program receives funding through a grant through the Traverse des Sioux Library System. More information is available on the BECHS Website at www.BlueEarthCountyHistory.com/events

For more information, please contact BECHS at 507-345-5566 or visit our website at www.BlueEarthCountyHistory.com.