Central College hosts political activist and author Kyle McCord, professor of English at Drake University, in Maytag Student Center’s Van Emmerik Studio Wednesday, Nov. 8, at 7 p.m. His presentation, “Talking Across the Aisle,” focuses on how to engage with and successfully deal with political perspectives that might oppose one’s own. The event is free and open to the public.
McCord started his career in activism and writing by studying international law and history at Beloit College before serving as evangelical outreach coordinator for the Church of the Brethren. He now serves as an advisor to multiple political groups in Des Moines, along with teaching at Drake University. He holds an M.F.A. from University of Massachusetts-Amherst and a Ph.D. from the University of North Texas.
An esteemed author as well as speaker, McCord is the author of five books, including “Magpies in the Valley of Oleanders,” a National Poetry Series Finalist. Recent work has been featured in The Harvard Review and The Kenyon Review, and he has been recognized by multiple writing foundations, including the Academy of American Poets.
McCord’s presentation is the second session in Central’s Democracy Rocks! Series. The college previously hosted acclaimed anti-racist author and educator Tim Wise Oct. 18. The event is sponsored by Central College Student Development–Leadership.