Foothills Speaker Series
The Foothills Speaker Series is a joint initiative of Desert Foothills Land Trust and the Holland Center. These free educational sessions offer valuable insights into the natural and social history of the Desert Foothills region.
All programs are held from 6 - 8 pm. While programs are free, donations are appreciated. Due to limited seating, advance registration is required.
Thank you to everyone who joined us this season! Check back in the fall for more Speaker Series Events!
The Holland Center enriches the Desert Foothills community by celebrating arts and culture, treasuring our desert environment, assisting those in need, and encouraging lifelong learning. The Center provides support, opportunity, and connection for area residents through diverse programs including intriguing classes, fine arts exhibits, community theatre, and more. Through these offerings, the Holland Center aims to foster a vibrant, engaged community in the Desert Foothills area.
Past Events
October 1, 2024 - Rock Imagery of the Southwest
Explore the diverse rock imagery and archaeological heritage of the southwest with leading expert, Dr. Aaron Wright of Archaeology Southwest.
November 12, 2024 - All About Saguaros
Learn the truth about our iconic saguaro cactus as we bust myths surrounding our desert giants, with Ali Schuessler of Desert Botanical Garden.
December 3, 2024 - Starry Desert Nights
Explore the science of astronomy and the mysteries of the night sky using telescopes with Jenny Hall of Paradise Valley Community College and local astronomers.
January 7, 2025 - Wolves and Coyotes
Get to know our wildlife neighbor the coyote, and delve into the history of Arizona’s wolves, with wildlife biologist Jeff Meyers of the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
February 4, 2025 - Reaching for the Heavens
Arizona is home to a rich astronomical legacy of reaching for the heavens. Learn more about this history with James Renn of the Vatican Observatory Foundation.
March 10, 2025 - Desert Medicinal Plants
See our common desert plants in a new light, as we learn the medicinal properties of plants with Diane Vaszily of the Desert Awareness Committee.
April 1, 2025 - Wildland Fires
Join us to learn the science of wildland fires, and how they are managed in the Sonoran Desert, with wildland fire managers from the Tonto National Forest.
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED