Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Ware Lecture featuring Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, scheduled for Thursday, April 16, has been canceled.

The free Lecture Series is open to the public and begins on Nov. 13 with Disney’s “High School Musical” star, Monique Coleman

Elizabethtown College recently announced the lineup of speakers for its 2025-26 Lecture Series, one of the region’s most notable programs. 

The free Lecture Series is open to the public and continues a rich tradition of hosting speakers who bring bold ideas, powerful stories, and unforgettable conversations to campus. All attendees must register for each event. Each lecture is free and open to the public. Register for lectures and learn more at etown.edu.

The 2025-26 Lecture Series features three internationally-known and remarkable individuals, including:

Monique Coleman, Award-Winning Actress, Producer, and Humanitarian | Thursday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. | Leffler Chapel & Performance Center, Elizabethtown College | Register

Lecture Topic: We’re All in This Together

From “High School Musical” star to global changemaker, Monique Coleman shares her journey as a youth advocate, United Nations Youth Champion, and creator of platforms that empower young voices. Learn more.

The Leffler Lecture is made possible by a generous endowed gift from Linda ’67, H’03 and Patrick Castagna. 

Carl Zimmer, Acclaimed New York Times Columnist, Author, and Science Journalist | Thursday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. | Leffler Chapel & Performance Center, Elizabethtown College | Register

Lecture Topic: The Age of AI: Cracking the Code of Life

Artificial intelligence is transforming biology, enabling scientists to decode protein structures, design new cells, and uncover life’s deepest mysteries. Carl Zimmer explores this frontier of discovery, where machines accelerate our understanding of life itself and reveal possibilities that once seemed unimaginable. Learn more. 

The Lefever Lecture is made possible by a generous endowed gift from Ernest W. Lefever ’42, H’92.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Bestselling Author and Gender Equality Advocate | Thursday, April 16 at 7 p.m. | Leffler Chapel & Performance Center, Elizabethtown College | Register

Lecture Topic: Creating the World You Want

New York Times bestselling author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie reflects on resilience, individuality, and gender equality. Drawing from personal experiences, she shares lessons on resilience, individuality, and the courage to challenge limiting norms. Learn more. 

The Ware Lecture is made possible by a generous endowed gift from Judy S. ’68, H’25 and Paul W. Ware.


Celebrating Educate for Service Award Recipients

The Lecture Series will also include the recognition and celebration of each recipient of the 2025-26 Educate for Service Awards before each lecture. The Educate for Service Awards are the highest honors bestowed upon alumni by Elizabethtown College and the Elizabethtown College Alumni Association.