“My background happens to be in public relations and advertising, and many years ago I was given the opportunity to promote another product, namely homeless women,” Tiernan told a commencement crowd last May upon receiving an honorary degree from Suffolk University.

The academic-year series features individuals who represent a variety of religious traditions, disciplines and professions such as psychology, dance, peace activism and education. Speakers lead participants through a brief encounter with a spiritual practice or experience that has been important in their own lives.

The next scheduled speaker is Czerny Brasuell, director of multicultural affairs at Bates College, who will discuss Paths to Enlightenment: An Embarrassment of Riches at 4:30 p.m. Jan. 13, in the Benjamin Mays Center.

For more information about the series, call 207-786-8272.