MLK Commemorative Lecture at Harvard

Date and Time

October 15, 2026
05:30PM - 07:00PM EDT

Location

Memorial Church

Renowned physician scientist, public health leader, and educator Paula A. Johnson is the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Lecturer. Harvard President Emerita Drew Gilpin Faust will moderate a conversation with the honoree.

In her lecture, "Awakening the Dream Deferred," Dr. Johnson will explore the character, courage, and civic purpose of higher education, and its role in sustaining democracy.

The lecture will take place in the Memorial Church sanctuary followed by a community reception with refreshments.

This event is free and open to the public. Space is limited, please register.

Harvard University welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. American Sign Language and live captioning are provided. Slides with alt text may be emailed by request. If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about the physical space, please email ccl@harvard.edu in advance of your participation.

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Lecture is hosted by the Office of the President and administered by Community and Campus Life.

Text: "Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Lecture at Harvard." "Paula A Johnson, President, Wellesley College" Photos of Paula held within shield shape, with sepia-toned photo of MLK beside as background.