Chester Fritz Library’s Randy Rasmussen Memorial Lecture Series debuts Jan. 26

In celebration of scholarship at UND, the Chester Fritz Library has created the Randy Rasmussen Memorial Lecture Series.

The series’ inaugural event will be Thursday, Jan. 26, at 4:30 p.m. in the CFL Conference Room (406).

Brian Urlacher, professor of political science and public administration, will read and discuss selections from his debut novel, “The Library of Chester Fritz.” In the book, published by the Digital Press at the University of North Dakota, Urlacher re-imagines UND’s most prominent benefactor as a globetrotting, dark adventurer.

Following the reading, William Caraher, associate professor of history, and Patrick Henry, assistant professor of English, will discuss scholarly and literary publishing in a changing landscape. The recently reinvigorated Digital Press at the University of North Dakota has committed to supporting regional authors and translators, as well as open access.

In December 2020, the Chester Fritz Library and the UND community felt the loss of Randy Rasmussen, a loving and compassionate individual who brightened the day of everyone he came across. Rasmussen was a North Dakota native and UND alum who worked for his alma mater for decades. He was a strong supporter of the theater, music and art departments on campus, attending all performances and opening receptions. He also was a nationally renowned film scholar who authored monographs examining the works of Alfred Hitchcock, Stanley Kubrick and Orson Welles, among others.

Refreshments will be served.

Those interested in attending can RSVP here. The lecture will also be streamed via Zoom.