To celebrate warmer weather and this fresh start that spring brings, Longwood University is providing programs for the coming month, Eco April, in honor of our earth.

The first week is a kick-off with a noted nature photographer Gerry Ellis who has many stories to accompany his photos. His ability to tell the story of Africa and of America, of humans and the great apes through words and pictures will make each person think about their responsibilities. His program on April 1, Tuesday, 7 p.m. in Bedford Auditorium, is open to the public.

On April 7, Monday at 4 p.m. in Jarman Auditorium, Richard Louv will be speaking about a disease that is impacting our health Nature Deficit Disorder, is why we fell sick when we stay inside all of the time. A New York Times reporter and author, Mr. Louv brings a message about why we should still listen to our mothers, “You need to go outside.”

Internationally known for his work in the field to improve education, Louv, is the emissary for a movement to change the culture of perpetual technology use with using the outside as a sure cure for what ails us.

Open to the public, his presentation will provide an important message about the value of getting outside.