Convocation Series
Tuesday, September 13, 2011, 7:30 p.m.
Adrian Fenty
“Politicians are going to have to make tough decisions and risk their political future because it’s the right thing to do.”
Saturday, September 24, 2011, 8 p.m.
Ira Glass
“Mr. Glass is a journalist but also a storyteller who filters his interviews and impressions through a distinctive literary imagination, an eccentric intelligence, and a sympathetic heart.”
Wednesday, October 12, 2011, 7:30 p.m.
Salman Rushdie
“Rushdie helps us escape from the present into a dreamlike past that ultimately makes us more aware of the dangers and illusions of our everyday lives.”
Wednesday, November 9, 2011, 7:30 p.m.
Jaron Lanier
“At the bottom of Lanier’s cyber-tinkering is a fundamentally humanist faith in technology… His mind is a fascinating place to hang out.”
Tuesday, February 21, 2012, 7:30 p.m.
Soweto Gospel Choir
“[The choir] has a cornucopia of remarkable voices: sharp, sweet, kindly, raspy and incantatory leads above a magnificently velvety blend… the music was both meticulous and unstoppable… the songs were both spirited and spectacular.”
Wednesday, March 7, 2012, 7:30 p.m.
Jonathan Alter & Ross Douthat
“Jonathan Alter is a diligent political reporter with more sources than the Mississippi.”
“Mr. Douthat writes beautifully, with a rare lyricism.”
Thursday, April 19, 2012, 7:30 p.m.
Edwidge Danticat
“Danticat is a marvelous writer, blending personal anecdotes, history, and larger reflections without turning the immigrant writer into a victim, misunderstood by all.”
The inaugural Rubin Institute for Music Criticism takes place at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, January 18-22, 2012. It will bring together leading music critics, renowned musicians, and aspiring young writers for an intensive week of performances, criticism, and discussion. Steven Rubin, president and publisher of Henry Holt & Co., has generously supported this new institute.
About the Oberlin Convocation Series
The Oberlin Convocation Series, presented under the auspices of the Finney Lecture Committee and the Office of the President, presents free, public discussions of cutting-edge issues by some of the country’s most prominent thinkers. These talks are open to the public and take place in Finney Chapel. Lectures begin at 7:30 or 8 p.m. For additional information, please contact the Office of Public Programs at 440.775.6785.