Since its inception in 2001, The University Lectures has brought to the Syracuse University campus and the Central New York community some of the world's most dynamic, influential and inspiring movers and shakers.  Previous guests have been world-renowned academicians, architects, designers, writers, business and media experts, and statesmen, who have all helped to shape the world in which we live.  In their University Lectures presentations, they have reached across interdisciplinary boundaries and drawn on their expertise and personal experiences to help their audiences learn and understand a wide range of perspectives on our global society. 

The University Lectures is managed by the Office of Academic Affairs under the direction of Associate Provost Kal Alston.  Each year the University Lectures Advisory Committee reviews recommendations and selects presenters based on their potential to enhance the cross-disciplinary academic experience of all Syracuse University students.  Many students have an opportunity to interact personally with the guests both in classroom settings and at other campus events outside of the lecture.

The University Lectures is recognized as one of the premier lecture series of its kind in the country, and has served as a model for other lecture series on campuses across the nation.  The University Lectures is supported by the generosity of the University's Trustees, alumni and friends, and all lectures are free and open to the public.

The Office of University Lectures welcomes suggestions for future speakers.  To recommend a speaker, or for additional information about the series, contact Esther Gray in the Office of Academic Affairs at (315) 443-2941 or eegray@syr.edu.

Current Lectures

Previous Lecturers