February 25 Lecture Focuses on the Power of Connection

Clarke University and the Mackin-Mailander Lecture Committee are diving into the power of connection with a special lecture from alumna and Psychology Instructor Brenna Burgart ’17 on Wednesday, February 25. The lecture is free and open to the public and begins at 7 p.m. in Jansen Music Hall.  

The talk entitled, “Bad Connections are for Wifi” explores how moving to a new place can be isolating and actions one can take to start building a community.  

“Forging strong connections increases a sense of belonging, reduces mental health struggles and can create a lifetime of memories,” Burgart said. “While it can be difficult to take that first step, these connections are incredibly important to individuals and communities as a whole.  

Burgart will reference her educational background in Psychology, as well as personal experience. Originally from New Hampton, Iowa, Burgart has developed connections in the Dubuque community thanks to her involvement in the Dubuque Jaycees, Mental Health America, and local theater productions.  

This is the third lecture in the Mackin-Mailander Lecture Series for the 2025-2026 academic year. Previous lectures featured Artist and Activist Yohance Lacour and Clarke University Professor of Art Louise Kames ’77.  

About the Mackin-Mailander Lecture Series 

The Clarke University Mackin-Mailander Lecture Series was established in 1997 after Clarke received gifts from two alumnae, Mary Mackin ’34 and Verna Slattery-Mailander ’20, to establish an endowed lecture series. The annual series consists of three lectures, including a prominent outside speaker, a faculty lecture, and an alumni lecture.