June 3, 2026
5:30 pm
– 7:30 pm
McGowan South Building, Room 105 - DePaul University
1110 West Belden Avenue, Chicago, IL, USA
Program Series:
Science and Society
Have you felt political tensions in the US rising? Many report feeling overwhelmed, divided, and, sometimes, threatened when discussing politics. American elected officials have expressed increased concern about their exposure to threats and violence. Has political violence actually increased? If so, what is causing it? How does it affect the country’s public servants? And how does the public respond? Join us as we hear from Dr. Alexandra Filindra, Professor of Political Science and Psychology at the University of Illinois Chicago, as we address such questions, using data from recent surveys conducted among public officials and citizens, and infuse a neuroscience perspective to tackle why folks might react the way they do to political tensions.
Interested in the brain science behind political reactions? Here’s a helpful sheet on the brain regions responsible for how we process and integrate political information and the theories that explain our behaviors.
Kickoff to Summer Picnic
June 5, 2026
11:00 am
– 3:00 am
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, South DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL, USA
Program Series:
Science and SocietyTechnology and Engineering
Grab a blanket and some sunscreen and meet us on the front lawn for this free event featuring games, bounce houses, face paint and hands-on activities from the C2ST and the Griffin MSI Education team and some of our incredible community partners.
- Free swag from organizations including The Midwest Dairy Association, Chicago White Sox and Gatorade
- Facilitated STE(A)M activities hosted by Chicago Council on Science and Technology (C2ST), Chicago Architecture Center, Robothink Chicago and more
- The CTA will be bringing one of their historic vehicles
- And so much more to enjoy!
This outdoor event is free and open to the public — food will be available for purchase. Admission to the Museum requires a ticket purchase. Ticketed guests may exit and re-enter freely.
Juneteenth Celebration
June 19, 2026
10:00 am
– 8:00 pm
The DuSable Black History Mua
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, East 56th Place, Chicago, IL, USA
Program Series:
Technology and Engineering
Join us for The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center’s annual Juneteenth celebration, our largest community event of the year. This all-day gathering honors freedom, culture, and Black history through programming rooted in celebration, education, and community connection.
This is a FREE event open to the public.
Enjoy a full day of programming for families and people of all ages!
Pros and Cons of Protein in American Football
Football culture at elite levels, such as the NFL and major college programs, heavily depends on protein. It is common in team nutrition programs, post-workout meals, and protein smoothies in the locker room. However, it’s not as straightforward as “more is better” when it comes to performance. All levels of athletes should be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of protein.
Sinking Your Teeth into Sourdough: The Science Behind Its Health Benefits
In the last six months, I became the proud owner of a sourdough starter gifted to me over the winter holidays. While I did not anticipate going on a “sourdough journey”, it has been fun to not only learn how to make sourdough bread, but also the science and health benefits of sourdough!
C2ST Supporters
Alan Schriesheim & Kay Torshen
John A. Cable Foundation
Arch Investors Ltd
Alan Schriesheim & Kay Torshen
John A. Cable Foundation
Arch Investors Ltd