About us
The Capital District Humanist Society provides a supportive community for exchanging ideas, heightening our knowledge of the world and ourselves, fostering moral and ethical growth, and promoting the principles of non-theistic humanism.
CDHS is a member organization for individuals who share humanist values and who reside in the Capital District region of New York State and neighboring areas. Our values include commitment to free inquiry, rational thought, life-long education, democracy, social concern, and fellowship.
The Society provides various activities including monthly speakers, socials, book discussions, and a newsletter.
For more information please see our website: humanistsociety.net
Upcoming events
2
Bastille Day: Revolution, Reflection, and the Language of Freedom
Location not specified yetBastille Day—known in France simply as le 14 juillet—is often associated with celebration: fireworks,
music, and national pride. Its origins, however, lie in a pivotal moment of transformation in French
history.
In this presentation, we will explore the historical significance of the storming of the Bastille and the
broader context of the French Revolution. From there, we will consider the enduring ideas it
represents—freedom, collective voice, and the human drive for dignity and participation in society.
Drawing connections between history, culture, and language, this talk invites reflection on how the
language of the Revolution reflects its ideas—and how language and culture shape meaning across time.
Participants will gain insight not only into a defining historical moment but also into the ways ideas are
expressed, shared, and carried forward through language.
For those interested in continuing their exploration of language and culture, additional resources and
information will be available.Nancy Scarselletta is the Founder and Director of The Language Learning Institute, where she has guided students of all ages toward confident communication in French and Spanish. A New York State certified teacher with over 30 years of experience, she has taught in both public and private settings, as well as through her own institute. Nancy holds a Master of Arts in French from Middlebury College and completed immersive study in Paris, where she explored language through culture, history, and daily life—experiences that continue to shape her work.
Over the course of her career, she has developed a distinctive approach to language learning that
emphasizes meaning, connection, and the ability to engage in real conversation from the earliest stages. Through her teaching and presentations, Nancy brings together language, culture, and human experience, helping audiences see how communication shapes not only what we say, but how we understand one another and the world around us.
This program begins at 1:00 PM. Nancy will present live and in person, at Pinnacle Living, 45 Forts Ferry Road, Latham, NY. It is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be available starting at 12:30 PM. Please bring your own beverage.
If you wish to attend via Zoom and are not a current member of CDHS, email your request to CDHS.Albany@gmail.com no later than Friday, July 10th.
The Capital District Humanist Society provides a supportive community for exchanging ideas, heightening our knowledge of the world and ourselves, fostering moral and ethical growth, and promoting the principles of non-theistic humanism. CDHS is a member organization for people with humanist values. Our values include commitment to free inquiry, rational thought, life-long education, democracy, social concern, and fellowship.
To learn more about us, please go to www.humanistsociety.net6 attendeesBastille Day: Revolution, Reflection, and the Language of Freedom
Location not specified yetBastille Day—known in France simply as le 14 juillet—is often associated with celebration: fireworks,
music, and national pride. Its origins, however, lie in a pivotal moment of transformation in French
history.
In this presentation, we will explore the historical significance of the storming of the Bastille and the
broader context of the French Revolution. From there, we will consider the enduring ideas it
represents—freedom, collective voice, and the human drive for dignity and participation in society.
Drawing connections between history, culture, and language, this talk invites reflection on how the
language of the Revolution reflects its ideas—and how language and culture shape meaning across time.
Participants will gain insight not only into a defining historical moment but also into the ways ideas are
expressed, shared, and carried forward through language.
For those interested in continuing their exploration of language and culture, additional resources and
information will be available.Nancy Scarselletta is the Founder and Director of The Language Learning Institute, where she has guided students of all ages toward confident communication in French and Spanish. A New York State certified teacher with over 30 years of experience, she has taught in both public and private settings, as well as through her own institute. Nancy holds a Master of Arts in French from Middlebury College and completed immersive study in Paris, where she explored language through culture, history, and daily life—experiences that continue to shape her work.
Over the course of her career, she has developed a distinctive approach to language learning that
emphasizes meaning, connection, and the ability to engage in real conversation from the earliest stages. Through her teaching and presentations, Nancy brings together language, culture, and human experience, helping audiences see how communication shapes not only what we say, but how we understand one another and the world around us.
This program begins at 1:00 PM. Nancy will present live and in person, at Pinnacle Living, 45 Forts Ferry Road, Latham, NY. It is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be available starting at 12:30 PM. Please bring your own beverage.
If you wish to attend via Zoom and are not a current member of CDHS, email your request to CDHS.Albany@gmail.com no later than Friday, July 10th.
The Capital District Humanist Society provides a supportive community for exchanging ideas, heightening our knowledge of the world and ourselves, fostering moral and ethical growth, and promoting the principles of non-theistic humanism. CDHS is a member organization for people with humanist values. Our values include commitment to free inquiry, rational thought, life-long education, democracy, social concern, and fellowship.
To learn more about us, please go to www.humanistsociety.net5 attendees
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