The University of Dayton's Special Programs and Continuing Education department will host the fourth biannual Duane W. Chapman Symposium on Monday, Oct. 10.

The symposium, titled 'Sabbath: Nourishment and Rest in the Service of Others,' will help older citizens with finding inner peace and in healing the spirituality of their mind and body. It will also address issues on health care for seniors, stressing optimal health and well-being.

The day will focus on these topics with presentations and workshops lead by 11 speakers in various areas.

According to Julie Mitchell, assistant dean for special programs and continuing education, an endowment gift was made in the name of Duane W. Chapman, a parent and grandparent of UD alumni. UD started the symposium for senior citizens based on the gift.

The symposium's first of two keynote speakers will be Dr. Wayne Muller, ordained minister, therapist and author who has spent the last 25 years working closely with disadvantaged members of society, according to Mitchell.

Muller is the founder of the Institute for Engaged Spirituality, as well as a Senior Scholar with the Fetzer Institute, a member of the Institute of Noetic Sciences and the author of the best seller, 'Legacy of the Heart: The Spiritual Advantages of a Painful Childhood.'

Muller's presentation, Working in the Company of those in Need, will begin at 9:30 a.m. His presentation will talk about gaining from rest, nourishment, wisdom and clarity necessary to help those in need. He will explore how others can reclaim wisdom and delight that makes lives and work productive.

The day's other keynote speaker, during the lunch program, will be Anne Holaday.

Holaday has been in the communications field for more than 25 years, working with the Scripps Gerontology Center at Miami University and the Center of Aging at the University of Arkansas School for Medical Sciences, according to Mitchell. With her experience in this field, Holaday has gained insight and knowledge concerning issues and challenges faced by seniors and their families.

Holaday's lunchtime presentation will show how a sense of humor keeps people healthy. She will look at ways to keep a positive attitude and stay healthy, while aging gracefully.

The nine other presentations will tackle other issues to help gain clarity and optimal health for seniors. These include 'DECA: Taking Service Learning to the Community,' 'To Your Health! The ABC's of Medicare's New Prescription Drug Program,' 'Aromatherapy for Health and Healing,' 'Mind/Body Connections,' 'The Role of Pets and Pet Therapy in Health and Well-Being,' 'The Energy Connection,' 'The Motivation for Well-Being,' 'Heal My Stress! Heal Myself!' and 'The Delicate Balance Between Independence and Assistance.'

The all-day event begins at 8:30 a.m. with registration and a continental breakfast and includes the 11 presentations, as well as a luncheon and a wine and cheese reception to close the day. The cost for the symposium is $25 and includes all events.

For registration information or any other questions, contact the UD Special Programs and Continuing Education department at (937) 229-2347.