Lake Land College Hosts Guest Speaker Temple Grandin

For Immediate Release – October 16, 2023

On October 12, Lake Land College students had the unique opportunity to meet world-renowned author, animal-behavior expert and autism spokesperson Temple Grandin through a partnership between the college and the Mattoon Arts Council.

The Arts Council hosted its Community Night event with guest speaker Temple Grandin in the Lake Land College Luther Student Center theater. While the theater was reserved for Arts Council ticket holders, Lake Land students were able to view a live stream of Grandin’s discussion at no cost in another room on campus. Students also participated in a meet and greet with Grandin after the event for photo and autograph opportunities.

Grandin’s unique way of looking at the world has made her one of its most influential figures. During the event, she discussed her new book, “Visual Thinking,” a celebration of those who think visually in a verbal world. She answered questions and provided advice to those in attendance, advocated for hands-on educational opportunities for young students and shared an inspirational message that celebrates all kinds of thinkers.

“We are absolutely thrilled that our students had the opportunity to listen to the knowledge that Dr. Temple Grandin had to share and that our Lakers were able to engage with such a talented and respected individual,” said Mercury Bowen, coordinator of diversity, equity, inclusion & belonging. “We are very grateful for the Mattoon Arts Council’s generosity in allowing us to stream their ticketed event to our students for free and for their understanding of the value that experiences like this have for our students.”

To learn more about similar events and celebrations at Lake Land, visit https://www.lakelandcollege.edu/celebrations/.