(PHOENIX, Ariz., Jan. 28, 2004) – Do you ever wonder why you laugh at situations or events when others are not? Has your sense of humor ever led to a negative or uncomfortable atmosphere? Does your humor lead to misunderstandings? If so, come share a joke and learn about the implication of your sense of humor for leadership or work styles at the Phoenix College Destination Humor & Laughter Across Cultures lecture.

Beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 19, Dr. Geremie Sawadogo, Director of International/Intercultural Education at the Maricopa Community Colleges will address cultural differences in laughter and humor and how each can lead to confusing situations or misunderstandings. He will demonstrate how a tool he developed can help identify laughter-triggering variables (LTV).

Prior to Dr. Sawadogo’s current position, he was the Peace Corps Country Director in Benin for five years managing a program of 115 volunteers. He has also consulted on education and development issues with the World Bank, the US Agency for International Development, the United Nations Capital Development Funds, The Canadian International Development and Research, the Peace Corps and Heifer International in over 14 African countries. Dr. Sawadogo is also an author of several articles on language and culture learning as well as articles on education, culture and development in Africa.

Destination Humor & Laughter Across Cultures is part of a series of lectures sponsored by the Phoenix College International Education Committee.

Other Spring 2004 lectures include:

--Destination Navajo Nation – March 24
--Destination Chiapas – April 22

The lecture will be held on the Phoenix College Osborn Campus in the Willo Room. Parking is available on the corner of Osborn and 11th Ave. Refreshments will also be served.

For more information, please call (602) 285-7194.

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