On the Rocks: Weather, Water & Whiskey
Monday, February 24, 2025
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Join us for an evening of spirited conversation and profound insight as Dr. Ross Dixon (UNL), Dr. Kelly Deuerling (UNO), Emmanuel Audu (UNL graduate student) and Jack Beguedou (Hood Sommelier) explore the intricate relationship between climate change, water resources, and Africa’s whiskey and textile industries. This unique panel brings together voices rarely heard in the same forum, offering fresh perspectives on environmental challenges, innovation and cultural preservation. Moderated by artist Jeff Koterba, this event will take you on an immersive journey across Africa, where climate change is reshaping centuries-old relationships between communities and agriculture.
As part of the experience, enjoy a handcrafted signature cocktail created by panelist and sommelier Jack Beguedou.
Panel Bios
Dr. Ross Dixon, Ph.D.
Dr. Ross Dixon is an Assistant Professor of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at University of Nebraska – Lincoln. His research is focused on atmospheric dynamics across scales, using numerical models and statistical techniques in order to better understand uncertainty in projections of regional precipitation. Dr. Dixon is particularly interested in projections of the West African monsoon and ITCZ dynamics.
Dr. Kelly Deuerling, Ph.D.
Dr. Kelly Deuerling is an Assistant Professor in the Geography/Geology Department at University of Nebraska – Omaha. Her research is focused on how water flows through and promotes chemical weathering and nutrient cycling within the critical zone. This includes groundwater-surface water interaction, chemical weathering across climates, water-rock interaction, and effects of anthropogenic practices on surface and groundwaters. Dr. Deuerling utilizes a variety of geochemical techniques including major/nutrient/redox-sensitive elemental concentrations and isotopic composition to understand these systems.
Jack Begeudou, Founder of Hood Sommelier
Born and raised in West Africa, Jack Beguedou came to the United States when he was twenty years old. Jack graduated with a Bachelor in Science of Business from Bellevue University, is the co-owner of Sommelier Insurance Group, and founded Hood Sommelier, where he combines his expertise in marketing with a love for international cuisine and fine spirits to create immersive experiences that educate, inspire, and bringing people together.
Emmanuel Audu
Emmanuel Audu is pursuing his Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where his research focuses on understanding climate variability across West Africa and the Central United States. Originally from Nigeria, Emmanuel is passionate about investigating the drivers of regional climate patterns and their impacts on vulnerable communities. His work aims to enhance climate resilience and support informed decision-making.
Jeff Koterba
Jeff Koterba is the host of KVNO’s “Morning Classics” and an award-winning cartoonist whose work appears in over 800 newspapers. His original drawings have flown on the space shuttle Discovery and were exhibited in Paris and elsewhere in France. Entertainment Weekly called his memoir, Inklings: “…a powerful and moving portrait of an artist.” A two-time TEDx speaker, he often speaks on how Tourette’s Syndrome is connected to his creative process. Jeff is a two-time finalist for a Heartland Emmy Award. He writes music, sings and plays guitar and mandolin in his swing band, Prairie Cats. A painter and sculptor, Jeff is an artist in residence at the Pottawattamie, Arts, Cultural & Entertainment (PACE) center.
