Last Lecture Series

Professor Trudier Harris, University Distinguished Research Professor in the English Department, discusses resisting dehumanization and thingification, the authoritarian others and even machines that take over our lives and make us subservient to them—the newest version of slavery being the anarchy of technology.

The Last lecture: Ten lessons learned by a former student who came back 30 years later as a professor.

Dr. John F. Beeler, professor of history at The University of Alabama, will offer his thoughts on why history matters in the modern world. In a world where information—often dubious—is only a click away, Beeler says that knowing real history can help keep people grounded. He emphasizes how essential an accurate understanding of the past is in trying to make sense of the world today and how vital it is to informing us as we contemplate the challenges of the future. Beeler says, “History is also the antidote to myths or fables about the past, many of which continue to resonate today.”

Robin Boylorn presents her take on "If this were your last time to address a group of students, what would you say to them?”

Rick Bragg, Professor of Writing in the College of Communication and Information Sciences. Rick will present his lecture entitled “So People Won’t Forget.” Rick is the author of several books, including The Prince of Frogtown, Ava’s Man, and All Over but the Shoutin’. He received the 1996 Pulitzer Prize in Feature Writing. Students, faculty, staff, and community members are cordially invited to attend the lecture and reception honoring Professor Bragg.

Rick Bragg, Professor of Writing in the College of Communication and Information Sciences. Rick will present his lecture entitled “So People Won’t Forget.” Rick is the author of several books, including The Prince of Frogtown, Ava’s Man, and All Over but the Shoutin’. He received the 1996 Pulitzer Prize in Feature Writing. Students, faculty, staff, and community members are cordially invited to attend the lecture and reception honoring Professor Bragg.

TGraduate School presents the 2011 Last Lecture Series with Dr. Bebe Barefoot Lloyd. The Last Lecture features a University of Alabama faculty member nominated and selected by students to answer one question in the form of a highly engaging lecture: “If this were your last time to address a group of students, what would you say to them?”