Academic Lectureships

Lectureships bring outstanding speakers from many areas to campus and add flavor and depth to the academic program. Endowed lectureships include:

The Dawson Lectureship

Funded by the John H. Dawson, Virginia Bates Dawson and Marsha Dawson Nelson Endowment Fund, this lectureship is designated for use by the Teacher Education Department.

John Davis Modern American History Lectureship

Dr. Davis, professor emeritus, served the College’s history department from 1961-1985. Upon his retirement, colleagues and friends established this fund.

Bob and Jean Lok Freligh Community Lecture Series

This lectureship is funded by a donor in recognition of Bob and Jean Lok Freligh, local community members and supporter of Adrian and Adrian College.

Edward C. DeMeritt Lectureship in Social Sciences

This lectureship is funded from the estate of Mr. DeMeritt, a Lenawee County businessman, investor and friend of the College.

Charles and Lena Beem Gillilan Lectureship in Business Administration

This prominent program was made possible by a bequest from Mr. Gillilan, a successful businessman in the rubber industry. Lena Beem Gillilan graduated from Adrian College in 1909. The lectureship brings to campus leading authorities in American free enterprise.

Kartemquin Film and Documentary Lectureship Series

Allen L. Goldsmith Lectureship in Science

The Goldsmith Lectureship was funded by gifts from the family and friends of the late Mr. Goldsmith, distinguished Adrian industrialist and trustee of the College.

Edward and Mildred Meese Lectureship in Religion and Philosophy

This program was made possible by a gift from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. Meese of Lansing. Mr. Meese was an Associated Press telegrapher.

Mary A. Merritt Lectureship

Mary A. Merritt attended Adrian College from 1874 to 1878. On the 100th anniversary of her entry at Adrian, this lectureship was established in her name, in remembrance of the courage and high purpose that characterized her throughout her long life. Established by Anne Wood Murray of Washington, D.C., the lectureship sponsors guest lecturers in English and poetry.

Genevieve R. Oliver Lectureship in Art

This lectureship is funded from the estate of Mrs. Genevieve R. Oliver, late owner of the Oliver Instrument Company of Adrian.

Mildred A. Smith Lectureship in the Humanities

This program is funded by a bequest from the estate of Mrs. Mildred A. Smith of Adrian.

J. Mabel Stephenson Memorial Lectureship

Funded by a gift from the family, this lectureship enables the College to benefit from the presence of outstanding individuals who are active leaders in the cause of Christian missions.