Lecture discusses smoking's impact on cognitive performance

ALLENDALE, Mich. — For years, it has been generally believed that smoking tobacco calms the nerves. Washington College professor George Spilich will discuss the research in a lecture at Grand Valley State University. He is speaking as part of Grand Valley State University's 15th annual Student Scholars Day.

Spilich's lecture, "Does Smoking Improve Cognitive Performance? A Tale of Science and Corporate Influence," is Wednesday April 14 at 4 p.m. in Room 2204 Kirkhof Center on the Allendale Campus. Spilich will look at a century of research to discuss the complex relationship between nicotine use and cognitive performance. Much of the research has been conducted not by disinterested observers by participants active in steering the discussion. Spilich will look at the relevant research and the role of the tobacco industry in shaping the debate around smoking.

Grand Valley's Student Scholars Day showcases faculty-mentored student work, shared through many venues, including oral presentations, discussion and panel sessions, fine arts exhibits and performances, and poster presentations. Projects may be initiated as part of a course or as independent collaborations with faculty. More than 600 presenters participated in last year's event. For more information, visit www.gvsu.edu/ssd.