Ubben Lecture Series

Ubben Lecture Series. Established in 1986 at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, the series is a prominent platform that brings distinguished global figures to campus for public addresses and student engagement. Founded through the generosity of alumni Timothy H. Ubben and Sharon Williams Ubben, its mission is to enrich the intellectual life of the university and the broader community. Over decades, it has hosted an array of luminaries from politics, science, entertainment, and social activism, becoming a cornerstone of the university's commitment to open discourse.

History and establishment

The series was conceived and endowed in 1986 by DePauw University graduates Timothy H. Ubben, a prominent investment manager, and his wife, Sharon Williams Ubben. Their vision was to create a sustained program that would expose students and the Greencastle, Indiana community to influential thinkers and leaders from diverse fields. The inaugural lecture was delivered by George H. W. Bush, then Vice President of the United States, setting a high standard for the caliber of future speakers. The establishment of the series coincided with a period of growth for DePauw University, aligning with initiatives like the Holton Memorial Quadrangle and the Performing Arts Center to enhance campus life. The founding was formally announced during a meeting of the Board of Trustees and has been administered by the university's Academic Affairs office since its inception.

Notable speakers and lectures

The roster of speakers encompasses global icons and pioneering figures. World leaders have included Mikhail Gorbachev, Tony Blair, F.W. de Klerk, Benazir Bhutto, and Margaret Thatcher. Influential voices from American politics have ranged from Barack Obama and John McCain to Nancy Pelosi and Bernie Sanders. The series has also featured luminaries from science and exploration such as Jane Goodall, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Bill Nye, alongside celebrated artists and entertainers like Ken Burns, Alec Baldwin, and Maya Angelou. Notable addresses include a 2008 speech by then-Senator Barack Obama during the 2008 Democratic Party presidential primaries and a poignant lecture by Elie Wiesel on the lessons of the Holocaust. Figures from business and media, including Malcolm Gladwell and Christiane Amanpour, have also contributed to the diverse dialogue.

Format and organization

Events typically consist of a major public lecture held in large venues such as Kresge Auditorium or the Green Center for the Performing Arts. Many visits also include smaller, interactive sessions like classroom discussions, press conferences, or informal meals with selected students and faculty from departments such as Political Science or Honors Program. The schedule is irregular, often aligning with speaker availability rather than a fixed annual calendar. Coordination involves the Office of the President and a faculty advisory committee, with significant support from student groups like the DePauw Student Government. Media coverage is frequently provided by The DePauw (newspaper) and sometimes regional outlets like the Indianapolis Star. Some lectures are integrated into broader campus events like Ubben Day or Alumni Reunion Weekend.

Impact and reception

The series has significantly elevated the national profile of DePauw University, attracting media attention from networks like C-SPAN and CNN. It provides students unparalleled access to engage directly with figures shaping global discourse, an experience often cited in university publications and admissions materials. Lectures have sparked campus-wide discussions on pressing issues, from the Arab Spring to climate change, influencing academic dialogue across disciplines. The program has received commendations from organizations like the Association of American Colleges and Universities for enhancing liberal arts education. Its consistent ability to secure high-profile speakers, even amidst tight Secret Service security for dignitaries, is a point of institutional pride and a testament to its reputation.

Administration and funding

The series is permanently endowed through the Ubben Gift, managed by the DePauw University Endowment. Day-to-day administration falls under the Provost and the Office of Academic Affairs, with a dedicated program coordinator. A faculty advisory committee, often including chairs from departments like History or Communication, assists in speaker selection and event planning. Operational support involves multiple campus divisions, including University Police, Facilities Management, and University Marketing. While the endowment covers core costs, additional funding for special events or extended residencies may come from co-sponsorships with entities like the Prindle Institute for Ethics or the McDermond Center for Management and Entrepreneurship. Financial stewardship is reviewed regularly by the Board of Trustees to ensure the series' long-term sustainability. Category:Lecture series in the United States Category:DePauw University Category:1986 establishments in Indiana