SYLVANIA—The Lourdes College Lifelong Learning program kicks off its 2010-2011 season at 10 a.m. Sept. 17 in the Franciscan Theatre & Conference Center.

The first program of the year features Lucas County Prosecutor Julia Bates and chief of the criminal division of the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office Dean Mandros. The duo is presenting a program on “Using DNA to Help Solve Cold Cases.”

The program explores the history of DNA, including its initial discovery and the birth of DNA testing. The presentation also addresses the ways that criminal prosecution has changed since the use of DNA as evidence was made possible.

With DNA testing and technology, many cold cases throughout the world have been reopened and successfully prosecuted, and Dr. Bates and Dr. Mandros are to profile local cases in which DNA evidence was used.

Lifelong Learning at Lourdes College is a dues-supported program that offers non-credit classes, seminars and field trips to adult men and women. Membership is $30 per person and $45 per couple. For more information visit www.lourdes.edu/lifelong or contact Gloria Burke at 419-824-3707 or gburke@lourdes.edu.