WCU Stories      September 16, 2019

Western Carolina University’s chapter of the Sigma Xi scientific research society will feature Andrew Penland, assistant professor of math and computer science, for a “Science Cafe” event Tuesday, Sept. 24, in Sylva.

Penland will speak on “Groups Without Leaders” at 6 p.m. at the Lazy Hiker Taproom. He will discuss the phenomenon known as emergence, when a group displays a collective property that comes from, but cannot be completely explained by, the actions of individual members. He also will present examples of real-world mathematical systems that exhibit complex behavior.

The event is open to the public and admission is free, with audience participation and questions encouraged. For more information, call Penland at 828-227-2483.