A ceremony celebrating the life of Gerry Shapiro, an English professor who died unexpectedly Oct. 15, is 3 p.m., Dec. 2 in the Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center, room 212.
In his nearly 25 years at UNL, Shapiro regularly taught fiction writing, 20th century fiction and Jewish-American fiction. He made a name for himself as a gifted and inspiring teacher, a talented author, and a highly respected colleague known for his intelligence and quick wit.
Actor and director Peter Riegert will read from Shapiro’s story “The Last of the Cowboy Poets.” Riegert directed and starred in “King of the Corner,” a film based on Shapiro’s acclaimed book, “Bad Jews and Other Stories.” Shapiro co-wrote the screenplay.
Along with family and friends, other speakers will include UNL alumni and authors Emily Danforth and Lee Martin, as well as faculty members Susan Belasco, Grace Bauer, Tim Schaffert and Judy Slater.
Following the formal remarks, other members of the community will be invited to speak.
Music will be provided by Tupelo Springfield, a band composed of English faculty Steve Buhler, Jack Vespa, Kelly Stage and John Schulze.
The event is organized by the Department of English.