Brain Awareness Week

The University of Maine at Presque Isle presents its Third Annual Brain Awareness Week festivities in March with several events especially for campus and community members to learn more about neuroscience and brain function.

Brain Awareness Week (BAW) is the global campaign to increase public awareness about the progress and benefits of brain research, according to the official BAW website. During BAW, campaign partners organize creative and innovative activities in their communities to educate and excite people of all ages about the brain and brain research. Founded and coordinated by the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives and European Dana Alliance for the Brain, BAW's 18th annual celebration will take place in mid-March.

Brain Art Contest

As part of UMPI's Brain Awareness Week activities, a brand new Brain Art Contest for kids will take place during the months of February and March, with community members picking their favorite art pieces during a First Friday exhibit at the Mark and Emily Turner Memorial Library on March 1. A winners ceremony will be held at the Wintergreen Arts Center at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 19.

Wii Challenge

On Saturday, March 16, from 1-2:30 p.m., families are encouraged to gather at the Whole Potato Cafe and Commons for a Wii Brain Challenge event. Being held in partnership with The Aroostook Medical Center's Neuro Rehabilitation Department, this event will give participants the chance to experience neuro-based challenges while competing in Wii games with family and friends.

NeuroArt Night
Ceramic Brain Painting Event

A returning favorite, NeuroArt Night will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 27 in the UMPI Art Studio, located on the third floor of Pullen Hall. As they have for the past two years, participants will learn about how brains are mapped and then use that information and their imaginations as they work in pairs to paint a plaster brain. Also, UMPI's Dr. Scott Dobrin will deliver a short public seminar on neuroscience.

Movie Night

On Friday, March 22, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Star City Coffee, UMPI neuroscientists Dr. Rachael Hannah and Dr. Scott Dobrin will host a special brain awareness-themed Movie Night, featuring the film Awakenings, and lead an informal Q&A after the show.

The public is invited and encouraged to attend and take part in all of these free events.