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	Hamon will share her mate selection research on Feb. 11 Click on image to download high-resolution version

GRANTHAM, Pa. (Feb. 3, 2004) — Raeann Hamon, Messiah College professor of family science and gerontology and chair of the department of human development and family science, will present a free public lecture entitled “‘It’s Better in the Bahamas’: From Relationship Initiation to Marriage.” The lecture will be held at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11, in room 131 of Boyer Hall on the college’s Grantham campus.

Hamon’s presentation will examine the contemporary mate selection practices of residents of three Bahamian islands: Eleuthera, Spanish Wells and Harbour Island. Based on more than 60 interviews, everything from relationship initiations and desired marital qualities to unique aspects of traditions like the “jump-in-dance” and actual wedding ceremonies will be examined. Particular attention will be given to how island life and cultural traditions shape mate selection practices.

Hamon is professor of family science and gerontology and chair of the department of human development and family science at Messiah College. She received her doctorate of family and child development and family studies in 1998 from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Hamon currently holds one of two Scholar Chair Awards. In addition to her research and writing, she has spent more than 10 years conducting research in and leading cross-cultural courses to the Bahamas. Hamon is currently the president of the Association of Councils for the National Council on Family Relations and is a member of the Caribbean Studies Association and the Family Science Association.

Messiah College, a private Christian college of the liberal and applied arts and sciences, enrolls more than 2,900 undergraduate students in 60 majors. Established in 1909, the primary campus is located in Grantham, Pa., near the state capital of Harrisburg. A satellite campus affiliated with Temple University is located in Philadelphia.

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ARTICLE DATE TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2004
ARTICLE NUMBER: MC-016-04