Dr. Darshana Morar, a microbiologist and research scientist, specializing in wildlife diagnostic and immunology, will speak at Chattanooga State Community College on Tuesday, November 29. The program begins at 6 p.m. in the Health Science Center, and a reception honoring Dr. Morar will immediately follow her formal presentation. Both the lecture and reception are open to the public and free of charge.

A native of South Africa with ancestral roots in India, Dr. Morar is currently a member of the faculty at the University of Pretoria in Pretoria, South Africa, which is the country’s capital and located approximately 30 miles outside of Johannesburg. A veterinary science academician who examines the diseases that are impacting animals indigenous to tropical climates, Dr. Morar will discuss her work developing wildlife immunological techniques and emphasize the need to support a healthy, vibrant wildlife kingdom. “The field of immunology is very intriguing to me,” says Dr. Morar. “As an educator and researcher, I am striving to expand my knowledge so that I am improving the human response to the natural animal world.”

Dr. Morar’s visit to Chattanooga State underscores the college’s focus to cultivate programs that address global themes and concerns. According to Mary Knaff, director of multicultural services, the college is diversifying its programming to enhance and enrich the overall educational experience for students. “We believe a community college should promote an understanding of international issues and an appreciation for cultural diversity. Sponsoring programs such as this lecture by Dr. Morar engages our students in an international conversation, fostering global awareness and multicultural respect.”