McCormick Days unites broader community around theme of “just eating”

This year’s theme, “Just Eating: Leading the Exodus from Hunger,” will find expression in its services of worship, led by alumna Rev. Linda Wygant (D.Min., Class of 2006), its workshops staffed by faculty and alumni/ae, and its keynote presentation by David Beckmann, President of Bread for the World. Beckmann was recently named a recipient of the World Food Prize, which honors outstanding individuals who have made vital contributions to improving the quality, quantity, or availability of food throughout the world.

An economist as well as a clergyman with degrees from Yale University, Christ Seminary, and the London School of Economics, Beckmann has led Bread for the World’s successful, large-scale campaigns to strengthen the United State’s political commitment to overcoming hunger and poverty since becoming president of the organization in 1991. Bread for the World comprises a large faith-based network of members who write to and hold meetings with their members of Congress and work through churches, campuses, and other organizations to engage more people in advocacy. Beckmann also leads the Bread for the World Institute, which provides policy analysis and strategies to end hunger.

Beckmann is the author of numerous books and articles including Transforming the Politics of Hunger and Grace at the Table: Ending Hunger in God’s World. Beckmann has lived in Bangladesh and Ghana, overseen projects in Bolivia and Ecuador, and visited more than 70 countries.

In addition to its longstanding emphasis on social justice issues and Christian response, McCormick Days is also an opportunity for special class reunions. This year, McCormick is pleased to honor the Class of 1960 and the Class of 1985 with a banquet on October 24, preceding the official start of McCormick Days. On October 26, all registered participants are welcome to the alumni/ae luncheon during which the seminary will present the 2010 Distinguished Alumnus/a Award to the Rev. Michael McConnell, class of 1971. McConnell is Midwest Regional Director for the American Friends Service Committee. Perhaps best known for his organization's initiative "Eyes Wide Open," an exhibit of combat boots illustrating part of the human cost of the Iraq War.

A complete schedule of McCormick Days workshops and instructions on how to register will be available soon at mccormick.edu/mcdays and in a printed brochure arriving in August. Please note that Early Bird Registration ($125 per person) ends October 1.