"The Untold Journey of the Nazarene Emigration from Yugoslavia to North America" Presented by: Aleksandra Djurić Milovanović, PhD Abstract: The Apostolic Christian Church (Nazarean), known for their strict nonviolence and refusal to bear arms, found themselves in a difficult situation in Yugoslavia after World War II. Facing intense pressure to conform or suffer the consequences, many chose a path of exile. Drawing on extensive field research and oral histories conducted in Ohio Aleksandra Djurić Milovanović shares the accounts of those who fled Yugoslavia. Their exodus weaves a compelling story of persecution and resilience. From clandestine border crossings to life in refugee camps, and finally to integration in a new world, their journey illuminates a little-known chapter of Cold War religious history while also illustrating a timeless clash between totalitarian power and unbending faith.

Title: Global Anabaptism, Navigating a Transnational Religio-Ethnic Network Presenter: Samuel Boucher (University of Iowa) Abstract: In the digital age, datasets are becoming more and more prevalent. With this data, historical patterns emerge, and academics are better able to describe certain features of human development. Using datasets from a variety of sources, I aim to show that Mennonites exist as a transnational network; interconnected and global, yet distinct and localized. Via migration patterns and social reproduction through bonded settlements, Mennonites have created a closed network compressing time and space which allowed for the flow of capital (both material and human) from one node in the Mennonite mental map to another.

"Healthcare Partnerships with Plain People: Providing Support while Conducting Research" Presented by Angela Kueny (Luther College)