Looking Back, Thinking Forward

August 20, 2026, 5:30PM - 7:00PM
Online and In-Person at Peg’s Gallery, 53 First Street, Hudson, Ohio 44236

Join us online or in-person at Peg's Foundation for a community conversation exploring how our understanding of mental illness — particularly among women — has evolved over time and what these histories can teach us about mental health today. The conversation will feature sculptor Kimberly Chapman (Eighty-Six Reasons for Asylum Admission), Cummings Center Assistant Director Dr. Jennifer Bazar, forensic psychiatrist Dr. Doug Smith, and behavioral health executive and consultant Jonas Thom.

Grounded in history while connected to today’s mental health challenges, this event invites attendees to be part of the conversation. Together, we’ll explore the intersections of mental health, gender, storytelling, and social change, while considering how listening to one another and learning from the past can inspire greater understanding, compassion, and continued dialogue within our community.

In-person attendees are invited to explore Peg's Gallery before the event, including the Eighty-Six Reasons and 25 Years of Impact exhibits. The latter of these features artifacts from the Cummings Center's collections, spotlighting the history of asylums and mental health care in the United States.

Online attendees can join the conversation via Zoom.