Lunch and Learn: Adult Speaker Series

Welcome to our Lunch and Learn series where we will invite local experts to discuss topics of interest from history to philosophy to science and more. This month will feature an introduction to the intriguing world of forensic linguistics, with scholar Lorena Rizzo! In this talk, we’ll explore how language can be a powerful tool in solving mysteries and understanding the value of words. Lorena will start with demystifying what forensic linguistics really is—dispelling common myths and giving you a peek into its fascinating applications. From there, she’ll briefly touch on the history of the field before diving into two intriguing hands-on exercises.

First, we’ll analyze the infamous Zodiac Killer letters, comparing them to known writings of two suspects to see what authorship clues we might uncover. Then, we’ll shift gears to explore how language can influence confessions, looking at real-world cases where words have shaped justice. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or just curious about the power of words, this session will give you a glimpse into how forensic linguists read between the lines.