The Presidential Signature Series unites a variety of special opportunities and some of the nation's leading experts under one series to elevate scholarly conversations and illuminate significant work in the pursuit of flourishing!
We hope you will make plans to join us throughout the inaugural season as often as you can. Learn more about the 2023-24 Presidential Signature Series season below.
Sept. 11: Presidential Lectureship on Art featuring Abraham Cruzvillegas
6 p.m. | Ward Hall
Visual artist Abraham Cruzvillegas, will speak on the concept of “autoconstrucción” or “self-construction,” which is considered one of the most notable contributions to contemporary art. Autoconstrucción involves creating sculptures and installations that often involve found objects and materials sourced from various locations. Cruzvillegas has been featured in prestigious exhibitions, including the Venice Biennale, Documenta 13, and the Tate Modern in London. His lectures delve into his artistic process, the socio-political implications of his work, and the broader discourse within contemporary art. Through his engaging presentations, Cruzvillegas inspires audiences to think critically about their own surroundings and the possibilities of artistic expression. The Presidential Lecture in Art is hosted by the Department of Visual Arts in the George Shinn College of Entertainment & the Arts. Admission: Free, no reservations required.
Sept. 20-21: Carroll B. Ellis Symposium An Inspiring Voice, A Forward Call: Marshall Keeble Reconsidered
Locations and times vary
Make plans to join us for "An Inspiring Voice, A Forward Call: Marshall Keeble Reconsidered" during the Carroll B. Ellis Symposium. This is a two-day event focused on the life and influence of Keeble, considered to be the premier evangelist in the history of churches of Christ. The symposium begins with a worship service at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 20. The evening will feature Dr. Orpheus Heyward, Lipscomb's new affiliate professor for expository preaching and Christian leadership, who will bring the message to kick-off the symposium. A short program will follow the worship service when we will recognize several individuals who have been particularly special to Lipscomb. The evening will also include a concert by Lipscomb's Gospel Choir followed by a reception sponsored by the Lipscomb Black Alumni Council. The symposium concludes on Thursday evening, Sept. 21, with a musical tribute to famed civil rights attorney Dr. Fred D. Gray in a special edition of No Small Endeavor. The symposium is hosted by the Office of Spiritual Development & Church Services and the College of Bible & Ministry. Some events are ticketed and others are free. Register for each symposium event below.
Oct. 31 - Dec. 9: Dolly Parton and the Makers: My Life in Rhinestones
Tuesday-Saturday | 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
John C. Hutcheson Gallery, Beaman Library
The Department of Fashion & Design presents Dolly Parton and the Makers: My Life in Rhinestones, a limited time, one-of-a-kind fashion exhibition. Dozens of Dolly's iconic gowns will be on display. This exhibit will inform visitors of the creative process, unique techniques, and endless hours it takes to create these treasured looks throughout Dolly Parton's career and lifetime. The exhibit is curated by Parton’s archivist Rebecca Seaver. Parton’s former head patternmaker and seamstress, Iisha Lemming, will serve as Artist-in-Residence for the Department of Fashion & Design this fall to assist in the development and execution of the exhibit.
Tickets on sale now and are $25 for a 45-minute viewing.
Nov. 9: Don R. Elliott Distinguished Presidential Lecture featuring Daniel Pink
6 p.m. | George Shinn Center
One of the world’s leading business minds, Daniel Pink’s forward-thinking ideas and blockbuster books are reshaping how organizations approach innovation, motivation, timing and talent. The New York Times Bestselling Author of "When, To Sell is Human, Drive, and A Whole New Mind," Pink deploys the science of motivation to boost engagement, spark innovation, and create better leaders. He is a New York Times best-selling author of seven books on business, work, creativity and behavior. Through his popular online show "The Pinkcast," Pink shares tips for a better life and career with his subscribers. During the event, Pink will present a lecture followed by a question and answer session. The Don R. Elliott Lecture is hosted by the College of Leadership & Public Service. Registration information will be released soon.
April 11: McClure Lecture on Faith and Science featuring Sandra Richter
6:30 p.m. | Paul Rogers Board Room, Ezell Center
Sandra Richter, the Robert H. Gundry Chair of Biblical Studies at Westmont College, will explore the intersection of faith and science in this special lecture where she will address the topic, "Can a Christian Be an Environmentalist?". An Old Testament scholar, author, international speaker, and professor, Richter has led many student groups in archaeological excavation and historical geography classes in Israel and taught seminaries. Additionally, Richter is an author, writing many Bible curricula and is currently pursuing research to develop a commentary on Deuteronomy. The lecture is presented by the McClure Center for Faith and Science in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences.
This event is free and open to the public.
April 16: Landiss Lecture featuring David French
New York Times opinion columnist, former constitutional litigator and Iraqi War veteran David A. French will address the topic, “The Prose of Public Persuasion.” He is a distinguished visiting professor of public policy in Lipscomb University’s College of Leadership & Public Service. French, who holds an undergraduate degree in political science from Lipscomb, is also a New York Times bestselling author.
This event is free and open to the public. Reception at 5:15 p.m. followed by the lecture at 6 p.m at the George Shinn Center on Lipscomb's campus.