Whitworth University Election Year Speaker Series
Join us to hear thoughtful commentary from noted speakers and scholars representing a range of perspectives and ideas. The views presented in the Election Year Speaker Series are solely those of the speakers and do not represent official views held by Whitworth University.
John Meacham | American Struggle: Democracy, Dissent, and the Pursuit of a More Perfect Union*
Oct. 14, 2026, 4-4:50 p.m.; Robinson Teaching Theatre. For Whitworth students, faculty and staff only.
Oct. 14, 7 p.m. (doors open 6 p.m); Myrtle Woldson Theater at The Fox. Open to the public.
Click here for ticketing information
Bestselling author and one of America’s most compelling public voices Jon Meacham brings history into focus for today, exploring democracy, leadership and the nation’s defining ideals. His talk will be followed by a conversation with President Scott McQuilkin.
Cornel West & Robert George | Christian Witness in a Polarized Moment: Engaging the Culture with Conviction & Humility**
Nov. 6, 2026, 4 p.m.; Cowles Auditorium
More information will be posted closer to event date.
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 despites 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 Assistant Professor Davey Henreckson will follow West and George’s presentation.
Osita Nwanevu | The Case for a New American Founding
Nov. 14, 2026, 4 p.m.; Robinson Teaching Theatre
Is American democracy living up to its promises? Or is it time to reimagine the future of American democracy? Journalist, author and political commentator Osita Nwanevu will talk with Professor Bert Emerson about the challenges facing American democracy, the responsibilities of citizenship and what a stronger democratic future might require.
Kaitlyn Schiess | What to Do When You’re Exhausted by the Project of Politics
Feb. 17, 2027, 4 p.m.; Robinson Teaching Theatre
Do you want to remain engaged in public life without becoming consumed (and exhausted) by politics? Theologian and author Kaitlyn Schiess will talk with Associate Dean of Student Affairs Krista Maroni about spiritual formation, pursuing the common good and engaging faithfully in public life without losing sight of what matters.
Ronald Johnson | African Americans and the American Founding**
Feb. 25, 2027, 4 p.m.; Robinson Teaching Theatre
Whose stories are missing from our understanding of the American founding? Historian Ronald Johnson will join discuss the roles of African Americans in shaping the nation’s earliest ideas of liberty and equality, illuminating voices and experiences that deepen our understanding of America’s history. Assistant Professor Davey Henreckson will lead a Q&A with Johnson following the talk.
Alumni Panel | Community Across Conviction: How Whitworth Shaped Four Diverse Careers in Law and Leadership
March 11, 2027, 4 p.m.; Robinson Teaching Theatre
What does it look like to disagree without becoming divided? Four Whitworth alumni, all attorneys whose careers have taken them in different directions, will join Associate Dean of Student Affairs Krista Maroni for a conversation about friendship, civil discourse and how their shared Whitworth experience helped build relationships enduring years of differences.
*President’s Leadership Forum speaker
**Weyerhaeuser Center speaker
For Whitworth’s Statement on Freedom of Expression and Civil Discourse for Our Campus Community, please visit www.whitworth.edu/civil-discourse.