Advisory: Marquette experts are available for Halloween topics ahead of trick-or-treat

Oct. 24, 2024

MILWAUKEE — With trick-or-treat for many communities this weekend and Halloween coming next week, Marquette University faculty experts are available for holiday and candy-related topics.

Experts below can be reached at their listed preferred contact information. If you do not see an expert for your Halloween topic, media are invited to visit our experts directory or contact Kevin Conway (kevin.m.conway@marquette.edu) or Melissa Barclay (melissa.barclay@marquette.edu) for an expert referral.

The theology of horror 

  • Rev. Ryan Duns, S.J., chair and associate professor of theology, can provide information about a course he teaches called The Theology of Horror, which will allow students to explore the depths of Christian theological traditions through the lens of the horror genre, also providing students a metaphysical framework for discussing theological and philosophical questions. Father Duns can discuss All Saints’ Day (Nov. 1) and All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2), which in Latin America is known as the Day of the Dead. He can also speak about his upcoming book, "Theology of Horror: The Hidden Depths of Popular Films." Email him at ryan.duns@marquette.edu.

Get creative with leftover Halloween candy  

  • Connie Rogne, bakery executive chef with Sodexo, can provide fun and easy ways to reuse leftover Halloween candy in various dessert recipes. E-mail her at Connie.rogne@marquette.edu 

Worst candy for children’s teeth 

Origins of Halloween 

  • Dr. Tyler Farrell, associate teaching professor of English, who specializes in Irish literature, outlines the perceived origins of Halloween. Many believe the holiday was popularized in Ireland. Farrell will provide historical context including gothic poems which reference the tradition of jack-o-lanterns. Email him at tyler.farrell@marquette.edu. 

These experts were also shared in Marquette’s monthly briefing of related experts and stories from around campus. If you would like to receive the monthly briefing, contact Kevin Conway at kevin.m.conway@marquette.edu.

About Marquette University

Marquette University is a Catholic, Jesuit university located near the heart of downtown Milwaukee that offers a comprehensive range of majors in 11 nationally and internationally recognized colleges and schools. Through the formation of hearts and minds, Marquette prepares our 11,100 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and professional students to lead, excel and serve as agents of positive change. And, we deliver results. Ranked in the top 20% of national universities, Marquette is recognized for its undergraduate teaching, innovation and career preparation as the sixth-best university in the country for job placement. Our focus on student success and immersive, personalized learning experiences encourages students to think critically and engage with the world around them. When students graduate with a Marquette degree, they are truly prepared and called to Be The Difference.

About Kevin Conway

Kevin Conway

Kevin is the associate director for university communication in the Office of University Relations. Contact Kevin at (414) 288-4745 or kevin.m.conway@marquette.edu.