With the ethnicity of the Kansas population constantly changing — it’s estimated that 1 in 8 Kansans are Latino or Asian — questions are arising about how diversity will affect the state’s future. Kansas State University Salina’s first Civic Luncheon Lecture of the fall semester will focus on the topic of immigration with an educational presentation and an open forum for discussion.

“Blending Kansas Cultures: Immigration Trends, Policies and Questions” will be presented at noon Thursday, Sept. 11, at K-State Salina’s College Center conference room. The state director of the League of United Latin American Citizens of Kansas, Michelle Stubblefield, will be the guest speaker.

Greg Stephens, an arts, sciences and business professor, created K-State Salina’s Civic Luncheon Lecture Series in an effort to provide the campus and the community with an opportunity to learn about and participate in various social issues affecting society, and to also encourage opinions and ideas. Stephens says the lecture series, now in its second year, has had very positive feedback despite a few controversial topics.

“The Civic Luncheon Lecture Series is meant to push boundaries, generate dialogue and make people think,” Stephens said. “The attendance to each lecture has only grown in size and I have had many people tell me they are glad the Salina area has an outlet for hot-button topics.”

The Civic Luncheon Lecture is free and the public is invited. Attendees are welcome to bring their own lunch or purchase their lunch at the K-State Cafe and bring their tray into the conference room.

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Story by Julee Cobb / KSU Salina