Several prominent figures, such as Nobel Peace Prize winner Jody Williams and African human rights activist John Prendergast, will speak at UCF this semester.

The presentations are hosted by the UCF Global Perspectives Office, which strives to broaden awareness and understanding on campus and in the community about global issues. Each event connects to the office’s annual theme for 2012-2013, “The Changing Face of Freedom in Today’s Turbulent Times.”

The events, which are free and open to the public, include:

  • Former director for African Affairs at the U.S. National Security Council, John Prendergast, who will present “Blood and Soil: Land, Politics and Conflict Prevention,” at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 29, in the Pegasus Ballroom of the Student Union.
  • International development expert and author, Stephen C. Smith, who will present “Can We End Global Poverty,” at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 5, in the Cape Florida Ballroom of the Student Union.
  • Nobel laureate, Jody Williams, who will present “Banning Landmines: Disarmament, Citizen Diplomacy and Human Security,” at 3 p.m. Thursday, Mar. 21, in the Pegasus Ballroom of the Student Union.
  • Author and film producer, Mark London, who will present “Sharks of the Amazon,” at 3 p.m. Thursday, Mar. 28, in the Cape Florida Ballroom of the Student Union.
  • For a full list of upcoming events or to learn more about the Global Perspectives Office, visit http://ucfglobalperspectives.org.