NJ and the Birth of the Atomic Age program series starts Oct. 13

On October 13 at 7pm Don Bender, Local Historian and author, will give a zoom presentation entitled “New Jersey on the Frontlines: Riker Hill and the Statewide Nike Missile Bases during the Cold War”.  This is the first event of a fall program series (October through December) entitled “New Jersey and the Birth of the Atomic Age” which reveals our state’s critical role in the development of the atomic bomb providing the scientific talent and resources to complete the project. The program series also focuses on the state’s importance to US missile defense strategy during the Cold War as well as ethical issues related to nuclear use and proliferation.  Events include a variety of lectures, a film screening, and exhibits.   All activities are open to the public.

The program series is a collaborative effort by Harry A. Sprague Library, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Science and Mathematics, School of Communication and Media, and a number of other departments on-campus.  Some of the guest speakers include J. Samuel Walker (author and former Historian of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission), Dr. Michael Gordin (author and Professor of History at Princeton University), Steven Gimbel (author and Professor of Philosophy at Gettysburg College), and Alex Wellerstein (author and Professor of History at Stevens Institute).

Community partners include the Montclair Society of Engineers, NJ Peace Action, IEEE North Jersey, Montclair TV34, Livingston Historical Society, Livingston Public Library, Passaic County Community College – STEM Program, and Clifton Public Schools.

Note: Everyone (visitors, students, employees, etc.) who attends in-person events on-campus needs to complete Hawk Check (https://www.montclair.edu/redhawk-restart/about-hawkcheck/), bring proof of vaccination (or a negative COVID test within the last 72 hours if unvaccinated) and wear a mask.