University News

Anthropology & Sociology Department to Host Fall Festival Exploring Human History

October 8, 2026

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MACOMB, IL - - The Department of Anthropology & Sociology will host its Anthropology & Sociology Fall Festival: "From Stone Tools to AI" from 1 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, on the North Lawns at Currens Hall.

With activities ranging from ancient technologies and archaeological artifacts to contemporary topics and artificial intelligence, the festival's theme, "From Stone Tools to AI," reflects the broad scope of anthropology and sociology and their relevance to understanding people, cultures and society across time.

The festival will feature several exhibitions and displays, including an artifact display, poster exhibition, wildlife and nature photography exhibition and book exhibition. These activities will provide visitors with opportunities to explore anthropology and sociology beyond the traditional classroom setting.

The event will also include Yoga 4 All, a tug-of-war competition, and free food and drinks, creating opportunities for students and faculty to connect in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Students, faculty, staff and community members will have an opportunity to explore anthropology and sociology through interactive activities, exhibits, demonstrations and conversations. The event is designed to showcase the diverse areas of study within the disciplines while highlighting the department's efforts to engage, recruit and retain students.

A Faculty-Students Fireside Chat will bring students and faculty together for informal conversation and discussion, providing prospective and current students with an opportunity to learn more about academic life, faculty experiences and opportunities within the department.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of hands-on anthropology activities, including flint knapping and pottery making, bow-and-arrow hunting, and creating pictographs and petroglyphs. A photoshoot will also provide participants with an opportunity to capture memories from the event.

For more information, contact Prof. William Glerkpor at the Department of Anthropology and Sociology at wn-glerkpor@wiu.edu or (309)2981056.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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