The intellectual excitement of Colloquium
In 1980, American Mensa's then-Chairman Gabe Werba proposed an annual Colloquium, saying, "I want to stimulate within Mensa a climate of intellectual excitement in which concepts can be explored, dialogs can be started and ideas can be generated that will move us in new directions."
The first Colloquium was held in October 1982, citing as its purpose: To offer a forum for any interested Mensan to explore, debate, evaluate, and offer judgment on a major issue of long-range importance to society.
Using the format of that first event as a springboard, each Colloquium — now presented by the Mensa Education & Research Foundation — has made changes, learning from previous experiences, and adding new features. Colloquium participants come primed to discuss whatever topic is presented, not primarily to socialize — although there is also ample time to do that. This day-long educational event is also open to the general public.