great lives lecture series

Judy Blume

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Lecture Date: February 5, 2026

The Fred and Barbara Rankin Lecture

Judy Blume’s life and work represent one of the most profound cultural shifts in modern literature. From a stay-at-home mom in suburban New Jersey to a literary icon and a leading voice against censorship, Blume revolutionized what it meant to be an author of books for children and young adults.

Her nostalgia-inducing and visually compelling story spans her most memorable—and groundbreaking—works, from Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret to 1975’s controversial classic Forever. These books not only defined a generation of readers but also challenged long-held taboos surrounding adolescence, identity, and emotional honesty.

Blume’s career reveals fresh insight into her strongly held feminist beliefs and the professional struggles she faced as one of the most-banned authors in the United States. Her legacy continues to resonate amid today’s growing book-banning crisis, raising timeless questions about what belongs in children’s literature, and why her voice remains as vital as ever.

Speaker: Rachelle Bergstein

Rachelle Bergstein is a lifestyle writer, bestselling author, and editor, focused on style, pop culture, and families. Her work has appeared in the Washington Post, The New York Times, NPR, and more. She is the author of three books: Women from the Ankle Down, Brilliance and Fire, and The Genius of Judy. She lives with her husband and son in Brooklyn.

Great Lives

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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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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.