Great Lives Lecture Series

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University of Mary Washington Great Lives

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The William B. Crawley Great Lives Lecture Series is open to the public free of charge, due to the continued generosity of program donors. All donations are welcome.

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Putting a Smile on History

The Great Lives Series: Biographical Approaches to History and Culture returns for its 23rd season from January 20 through March 19, 2026, featuring a new lineup of engaging lectures that explore remarkable lives and their influence on history and culture.

Lectures are held at 7:30 p.m. on most Tuesdays and Thursdays in George Washington Hall’s Dodd Auditorium. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the UMW Bookstore selling featured books in the auditorium foyer. Each session typically includes a Q&A and book signing.

For updates and details, visit the FAQ section or use the “Contact Us” link on the website or follow us on Instagram and Facebook @greatlivesumw.

For additional resources on the topics in this year’s series, visit the Central Rappahannock Regional Library.

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Over 350+ Lectures to Date

Revisit your favorite past programs and discover new perspectives through our collection of archived recordings. Explore lectures from previous seasons, and connect with us on social media for featured lectures, highlights, photos from past seasons, and more from the Great Lives Series.

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Great Lives Lecture Series

Great Lives

Help Great Lives Live On

This compelling lecture series offers insight into a wide and diverse range of figures of historical and cultural significance. These presentations are delivered by eminent authorities from throughout this country — and abroad. Thanks to a substantial initial endowment and continuing annual support from John Chappell, the program is open to the public free of charge and no admission tickets are required. Public support — via attendance, donations, and ideas about future lecture topics — is vital to the continuation of this program.

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Weather Cancellations

When the University of Mary Washington is closed due to inclement weather the Great Lives Lecture is cancelled for that evening. To check for cancellations due to inclement weather, visit the Campus Advisories page, or the UMW Information Line at 540-654-2424.