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Organocatalysis. Building on the foundational principles and reactivity of organic molecules covered in the year-long organic chemistry sequence, this course delves into the use of small organic molecules as catalysts for a wide range of organic transformations. We will explore both seminal research and recent advances in the field, focusing on the mechanisms, methods, and synthetic applications of various organocatalysts. A particular emphasis will be placed on enantioselective organocatalysis, a field of research that earned the 2021 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for its transformative impact on asymmetric synthesis. This one-half credit course for the second half semester. Prerequisite: CHE 321: Organic Chemistry II

REL 273-02 - Thomas Aquinas: Philosophy and Theology Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) is the most important medieval theologian and philosopher. His work integrated classical Christian beliefs with the newest philosophy and science available at the time: Aristotle's recently re-discovered thought. This seminar will read excerpts from Thomas' Summa Theologica related to the nature and existence of God, evil, human action, sacraments and grace. Course offered second half of the semester.

Second Half-Semester Course Do myths and symbols belong in the skill-set of people living in a modern scientific world? Or are they playthings for nerds or soft-minded romantics? What exactly are symbols? Myths? What do they do? Are they socially constructed? Archetypal? Something else? How important are they for religion? Can you have a religion that's "demythologized"? Should you? These are some of the questions that we'll tackle in this half-course. We'll read selections from, among others, Paul Tillich and Wendy Doniger, as well as their critics. Using film and other media, we'll also read or look at a variety of myths, both ancient and modern.