Our lectures bring together scholars, students, and the community to engage with thought-provoking topics across the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Whether you're here to learn, be inspired, or connect with others, we invite you to discover the diverse voices and perspectives that shape our academic community.
Visit our calendar of events for the latest updates on upcoming lectures and academic gatherings. To explore how Gonzaga University is deepening its commitment to the humanities, visit the new Woodley Institute for Civil Engagement and Humanistic Dialogue—a hub for interdisciplinary dialogue, research, and community engagement.
The Arnold Lecture Series is hosted by Arnold Professor, a seasoned teacher and scholar who is recognized for their contribution to liberal arts education. Lecture dates are chosen each year by the new Arnold Professor. The 2025-2026 Arnold Professor is Dr. Gloria Chien.
Established in 1971 to honor longtime Gonzaga history professor Fr. William L. Davis, S.J., this annual lecture series has welcomed distinguished historians from around the world to share research that sparks meaningful dialogue across campus and the Spokane community. The Davis Lecture is often held during the spring semester.
The Flannery Chair of Roman Catholic Theology is an endowed Chair gift of the late Maud and Milo Flannery of Spokane, to further excellence of theological study and teaching at Gonzaga University. The Religious Studies Department invites an outstanding theologian twice per year to deliver The Flannery Lecture in Catholic Theology, usually in early March.
The GU Film Fest is a showcase of GU student-produced work. The primary audience is students, the GU community, and the broader Spokane community. This annual event takes place on the Friday before finals week.
The Gonzaga University Visiting Writers Series brings distinguished authors to campus to engage both the Gonzaga audience and the wider Spokane community. The series encourages intellectual curiosity and seeks to share the wonder and challenges of living a creative life. Events occur throughout the academic year.
The lecture series is presented by the GU science departments in honor of the late Father Timothy O’Leary, S.J., devoted priest and chemistry professor at Gonzaga University. Rev. O’Leary was described by his students as a superb lecturer, and his classes were known for their clarity of presentation.
The Robert K. and Ann J. Powers Chair of Humanities, established in 1979 by former Gonzaga Trustee Robert K. Powers and Ann J. Powers, was created to promote the humanities on campus and honor exceptional faculty in history, philosophy, language, or literature. Lecture dates vary annually.
Hosted annually by Gonzaga’s Philosophy Department, the Rukavina Lecture—established in 1999 to honor Professor Thomas Rukavina—features a visiting scholar sharing philosophical insights with the broader community each spring.