Lecture series on cannabis science to be presented at UW-Stevens Point

Learn about cannabis cultivation's long and varied history in Wisconsin and the changing perceptions of the plant in science and culture at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point this fall.

"The History of Cannabis in Wisconsin and Beyond" will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 5:30 p.m. as part of the free 2025-26 College of Letters and Science Community Engagement Series. The event is free and open to the public, but participants are encouraged to register by Oct. 12 to guarantee seating. Tickets can be reserved at uwspcannabis.eventbrite.com. This lecture is a reschedule from the original date on Sept. 23.

Fall lectures include:

• Oct. 14 - 5:30 p.m. - "The History of Cannabis in Wisconsin and Beyond"
• Nov. 4 - 5:30 p.m. - "Cannabis Social and Legal Landscape Shifts"

The event will feature Professor and Department of Biology Chair Brian Barringer. Learn about UW-Stevens Point's active, multidisciplinary research and teaching program focused on Cannabis. Barringer will explore the history of Cannabis cultivation and its evolving role in Wisconsin and beyond.

"Wisconsin was once one of our nation's leading producers of Cannabis," said Barringer. "By studying this history, we gain insight into how past choices shape current opportunities for research, innovation and community well-being."

The College of Letters and Science Community Engagement Series for 2025-2026 will invite participants to engage in timely conversations about cannabis cultivation, regulation, public health, and its evolving role in Wisconsin and beyond. As one of the world's oldest cultivated plants, cannabis offers a rich lens through which to examine issues of science, policy, and culture. All events are open to the public and available on demand via livestream.

Find more series information at uwsp.edu/2025-2026-community-engagement-series/.