Speakers at the Center
Deepen Your Learning
Join us at the Wassmuth Center each month for an inspiring and thought-provoking speaker series that shines a light on critical human rights issues impacting both our local community and global society. Each session features dynamic speakers—authors, scholars, journalists, and other community leaders—who will share powerful stories, insights, and actionable ideas to foster awareness, understanding, and meaningful change. Whether you’re passionate about human rights, eager to engage with diverse perspectives, or looking to deepen your impact, these events provide an opportunity to learn, reflect, and connect with others committed to building a more just and inclusive world.
Upcoming
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
Join us on April 30th from 6:30-8:00 PM for a compelling installment of our Speakers at the Center series, hosted by BSW intern Terrence Sharrer Jr. and MSW intern Sangam Stanczak.
This is more than just a conversation—it’s an opportunity to listen, learn, and challenge perceptions. Through firsthand stories from individuals who have experienced being unhoused, we will deepen our understanding of the realities within our shared community.
Don’t miss this chance to hear voices too often unheard.
Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Join us on May 7th from 6:30-8:00 PM to listen, learn, and be inspired as we welcome Liyah Babayan to Speakers at the Center.
Liyah is an Armenian refugee, author, and humanitarian who uses her voice to advocate for justice, mental health, and refugee education on national and international stages.
You won’t want to miss this opportunity.
2025 Speakers at the Center Series
Thursday, January 2: Heath Druzin, “The Rise of Christian Nationalism and Idaho as a Laboratory for Extremism”
Opening the series in January, we welcomed Heath Druzin for a powerful discussion on extremism and its impact on our lives and politics. Druzin is the host and creator of Extremely American, a sound-rich podcast series that looks at the intersection of extremism and politics. Druzin’s talk explored how Christian nationalists have quietly been building influence for years.
Thank you to George Prentice and Sasa Woodruff from Boise State Public Radio for moderating these discussions.
Saturday, February 1: Ousmane Kabré, “Stories of Impact, Compassion, and Community Transformation”
February’s session featured Ousmane Kabré, sharing his journey as a global advocate for social equity and economic empowerment. Drawing from his experiences growing up in Burkina Faso and his work fostering entrepreneurial opportunities across Africa and beyond, Kabré explored the intersections of human rights, innovation, and community development. Attendees gained insights into the power of resilience, the importance of education, and the transformative potential of grassroots initiatives in addressing systemic injustice and fostering inclusive growth.
Tuesday, February 18th: Dr. Mitchell Maki, “America’s Promise: The Japanese Americans Veterans and the Fight for Justice”
Wednesday, March 5: “Her Influence: Honoring the Women Who Shape Us”
An inspiring panel discussion featuring women from our community sharing stories of the women who have shaped and inspired them. This powerful event offered a blend of personal stories, diverse perspectives, and empowering messages highlighting the strength, resilience, and potential of women across generations.
Panelists:
Laurie Roberts – Retired English Teacher
Rama Deen – Founder & Executive Director, TANTA, Inc.
Sarah Griffin – Vice President of Human Resources, Idaho Power & Board Chair, Wassmuth Center
Christina Lords – Editor-in-Chief, Idaho Capital Sun
Wednesday, April 2: Open Arms Dance Project & Open Arms Ambassadors
Open Arms Dance Project joined us for an engaging event featuring dancers of all ages and abilities who showed the audience what true compassion and inclusion looks like both on the dance floor and within our community. The Open Arms Ambassadors shared the personal experiences they share with students as part of the Upstanders with Open Arms Initiative. The audience learned practical tips for interacting with those with disabilities. This event was a meaningful exploration of accessibility, inclusion, and advocacy.
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“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
-NELSON MANDELA, HUMAN RIGHTS LEADER