This month’s speakers and topics:

1) Braeden Gregory Goggans

Norse Gods Represented in Modern CultureBlonde Haired, Cape Wearing, Super Heroes?

The God of Thunder: Thor, The Allfather: Odin, and Loki, the mischievous member of the Aesir (Branch of Norse Gods) are all some of the most renown characters in todays society. Let’s be honest, Thor is arguably the best character in Marvel, but is he accurately represented? Did the Vikings and other ancient Germanic peoples’ worship a blonde-haired, cape wearing, witty superhero or are he and other Norse Gods described differently?

Bio: At 16 years old, the high school junior Braeden Goggans, is officially the youngest Nerd Nite COS presenter to take the stage! He has always enjoyed learning, so sees school as fun! His favorite topic to learn is science with special interest in marine biology and medicine. Other topics include auto shop, and psychology. When he’s home, he likes to play video games, watch tv, and research topics he’s interested in, like Norse mythology. Over time, the Norse Gods have turned from a hobby to an obsession, and sharing what he’s discovered is the most exciting thing he does!

2) Kelly Bull

Marvelous Microbes- Get the Dirt on What’s Going on in Your Soil

Did you know that in 1 teaspoon of soil, there are more living organisms than there are humans on the entire planet?! Dig into the fascinating world that exists beneath our feet and get to know your microscopic neighbors. Microbial life is full of romance, deception, murder, and intrigue, and if that doesn’t do it for you, the poop jokes should.

Bio: Kelly Bull is a permaculture landscape designer who helps people learn how to use ecological systems that let nature do the work so they can relax and enjoy their yards. She has an infectious love for plants, an endless fascination with soil, and gets a kick out of systems thinking and creative problem-solving.

3) Michelle Dusserre Farrell

Olympic & Paralympic athletes: the millimeters, seconds, scores & stories that have us cheeringTeam USA!

Bio: Michelle was the youngest member of the 1984 Olympic gymnastics team that won silver in those Los Angeles Olympic Games. She is the VP of athlete engagement at the US Olympic Museum. She has worked at 7 Olympic & Paralympic Games (three of them as a researcher for NBC Sports), is an inductee into the USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame, and also a member of the Olympic City USA task force.

Schedule for the night:

6:30 – 7:00 Fun and games
7:00 Presentations begin

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Come join us for a drink, learn something new, and meet fellow nerds. Tell your friends and help us spread the word about Nerd Nite Colorado Springs at COATI!

Be There AND Be Square