Upcoming Events
Critical Inquiry & Citizenship Colloquium, Augustana University
October 15 7:00 pm 12:00 am | Elmen Center, Augustana University, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Augustana University’s fourth annual Critical Inquiry & Citizenship Colloquium will culminate this year with two speakers — Drs. Robert P. George and Cornel West, distinguished scholars and leading voices in American public life. The two are known for their friendship and collaboration, as well as their commitment to principled dialogue across differences. Their keynote presentation to the Augustana community, alumni and friends will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, in the Elmen Center, with a book signing to follow.
Generously supported by Rosemarie and the late Dean Buntrock and in partnership with Augustana’s Center for Western Studies (CWS), the Critical Inquiry & Citizenship Colloquium was established in 2023. The colloquium is designed to promote civil discourse and deep reflection with the goal of enhancing students’ skills to think critically and communicate persuasively as citizens of a pluralistic society.
About the Critical Inquiry & Citizenship Colloquium
In partnership with the Center for Western Studies (CWS) and supported by Rosemarie and the late Dean Buntrock, this annual 1- or 2-day colloquium is intended to feature faculty scholars and students, as well as industry, research and policy experts who inspire and facilitate critical thinking, persuasive reasoning and thoughtful discussion around timely and engaging topics in areas ranging from religion, science and politics to history, technology and business. The colloquium kicks off or culminates in a keynote given by thought leaders of national or global prominence.
Fides et Ratio Converstation at Saint Anselm College
October 20 7:30 pm 9:00 pm | Saint Anselm College,100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester, NH 03102
Professor George to Deliver the Annual Halbrook Family Freedom Lecture
October 26 7:00 pm 8:30 pm | SHM Butz-Carruth Recital Hall; Taylor University, Upland, Indiana
The Halbrook Freedom Lecture is named for 1967 Taylor alumnus John A. Halbrook. The lecture series was established in response to Halbrook’s vision that every student at Taylor University would gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the freedoms and responsibilities afforded to citizens under the U.S. Constitution, and that they will carry that knowledge and understanding into their workplaces and as thoughtful, engaged citizens, church members, and neighbors in the communities where they and their families live.
Lewis House Lecture Series | Dignity, Human Rights, and The Death of Western Civilization: A Conversation With Robert George
November 2 7:00 pm 8:00 pm | 507 Columbia Avenue Lexington, KY 40508
Renowned Princeton scholar Robert P. George joins Lewis House to talk about how we should think about concepts like dignity, rights, and justice in a time of substantial ideological change and cultural unrest. As creatures made in the image of God, Christians believe that humans have a kind of inherent value. But terms like dignity and rights now operate with a troubling vagueness in our culture. Undignifying acts are done in the name of dignity: euthanasia, abortion, etc. As we abandon some of the values of Western Civilization are we substantially revising others? With years of experience discussing and debating fundamental cultural issues, Dr. George is a profound and wise voice helping us understand these confusing times.
Cornel West & Robert George | Christian Witness in a Polarized Moment: Engaging the Culture with Conviction & Humility
November 6 4:00 pm 5:30 pm | Cowles Auditorium; Whitworth University, Spokane, WA
Can people who disagree deeply about politics, religion and public life still be genuine friends? Cornel West and Robert George, who have been close friends for more than 20 years despite significant political differences, will discuss faith, truth-seeking, civil discourse and what it means to engage opposing ideas with respect, curiosity, and intellectual humility. A Q&A led by Whitworth Associate Professor Davey Henreckson will follow West and George’s presentation.
Grand opening celebration of The University of Utah’s Center for Civic Excellence
November 13 | TBD: Utah State University, Logan, Utah
The Role of the Center for Civic Excellence
The Center for Civic Excellence is the administrative unit responsible for overseeing and assessing general education at Utah State University.
The Civic Center operates within established faculty governance processes, including review and approval through the University Curriculum Committee and the Educational Policies Committee. It works in partnership with departments and colleges to coordinate curriculum, maintain shared learning outcomes and guide continuous improvement.
Professor George to Receive the Aquinas Medal from the American Catholic Philosophical Association
November 14 7:00 pm 8:00 pm | JW Marriott at 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC, 20004
Professor George will give the Presidential Address on Saturday evening of the ACPA 2026 Conference.
Witte Lecture on Christianity & Law | Trinity Law School
January 9 6:00 pm 8:00 pm | The Pacific Club of Orange County, 4110 MacArthur Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92660