EUGENE–Resiliency, sexually transmitted diseases, dying and predicting violence are the topics for four conferences organized by the University of Oregon Substance Abuse Prevention Program during February and March.

All but the first event will take place from 8 a.m.—4:50 p.m. in Room 150 of Columbia Hall, 1215 E. 13th Ave., on the UO campus.

The first event, "HIV and Other STDs," a two-day seminar on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 6—7, will be offered in Room 342 of Gilbert Hall, 955 E. 13th Ave. The seminar provides an update on the status of research and treatment of AIDS/HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. The social and political aspects of preventing these diseases also will be examined.

"Resiliency," scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 20, teaches the complex dynamic between environment, nature and nurture in the development of resiliency in children while examining strategies for the promotion of resiliency. The featured speaker is family therapist Judy Vergamini.

"The Sacred Art of Dying," on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 27—28, is a workshop approaching the life process in a holistic manner, using case studies to determine psycho-social, religious and spiritual care-giving issues. Richard Groves will present the seminar.

"Predicting Violence," on Saturday, March 6, features nationally recognized expert on violence Hill Walker, co-director of the UO Institute on Violence and Destructive Behavior. The seminar includes information on current theories, community responses and proposed solutions for violent behavior.

The one-day conferences offer one unit of college credit and the two-day conferences offer two credits to graduate and undergraduate UO students who attend all sessions and complete all assignments, final examinations or projects. Community professionals and others also are welcome, with certificates available that serve as proof of attendance for application toward professional development hours or for re-certification purposes.

Registration for the one-day conferences is $40 and the two-day seminars are $80. Early registration is encouraged.

UO students may use Duck Call to register. Community professionals and students also can register at the Registrar’s Office in Room 220 of Oregon Hall, 1585 E. 13th Ave., on the UO campus until the last business day prior to the conferences.

For information, browse http://darkwing.uoregon.edu/~sap or call Nancy Brendle, UO Substance Abuse Prevention Program education coordinator, (541) 346-4136.

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