Lee University’s Dr. Thaddeus McRae will kick off the Cleveland Bradley County Public Library’s “Sassy Science Series” with a talk titled “Tennessee Orchids, Lichens, Fungi and Trees: The Ecology of Mutualisms.” The program will take place Tuesday, Sept. 16, at noon and will include a 40-minute presentation followed by a 20-minute Q&A session. 

In this thought-provoking talk, McRae will explore the surprising cooperation in nature, from orchids and fungi to the microbes in our own bodies. Highlighting examples from East Tennessee and beyond, he will show how mutualisms – relationships in which all parties benefit – offer profound lessons about interdependence, resilience, and what it means to be human. 

A professor of biology at Lee, McRae joined the university’s Department of Natural Sciences in 2017. A broadly trained biologist with expertise in ecology, he has authored multiple publications, received media coverage for his research, and mentored undergraduate researchers on projects ranging from community ecology to animal behavior. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Miami and his Bachelor of Arts from Cornerstone University. 

“We’re excited to host Dr. McRae and other outstanding Lee faculty for this unique series,” said Kathy Davini, adult programming coordinator at the Cleveland Bradley County Public Library. “The Sassy Science Series brings engaging and accessible science to the community, and partnering with Lee University helps us bring high-quality content to the public.” 

The science series will continue Oct. 21 with Dr. Ben Christmann, Lee professor of biology and health science, presenting “From Gila Monsters to Glory: GLP1 Drugs and the Future of Medicine.” On Nov. 18, Dr. Laura Singletary, professor of mathematics, will speak on “Moments of Mathematical Beauty: A Brief Introduction to the History of Mathematics.” The series will conclude with Dr. Jonathan Cornett, professor of biology, presenting “Turning the Tables: Using Phages to Outsmart Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria.” 

“All of these talks highlight the expertise and passion of our faculty for making science come alive,” said Dr. Bill Estes, dean of the Helen DeVos College of Education. “We’re proud to see them representing Lee University in the broader Cleveland community.” 

All four installments of the series are free and open to the public. Each session will take place in the Flex Room of the Cleveland Bradley County Public Library, located at the corner of Church Street and 8th Street. 

For more information, visit clevelandlibrary.org.