Featured Speakers Series
Â鶹´«Ã½ at Stark is a proud sponsor of the .
Life-changing insights, laughter, learning something new, becoming inspired to tackle the world … these are just a few of the benefits people describe after attending the acclaimed at the beautiful Canton Palace Theatre.
Since 2016, the has brought authors of every genre and background – both up-and-coming and well-known – to meet patrons for free. The series is designed to foster community engagement with lively and, at times, challenging conversations. Each bestselling author speaks about their book, followed by a wide-ranging question and answer session.
The series is named for accomplished Stark County-based author, Dr. Audrey Lavin, who is also known internationally for her work in the field of education. Dr. Lavin is a devoted Library supporter and founding member of the Friends of the Library. Her creative talent, knowledge, and devoted service inspire all of us.
We can’t wait to see what the future brings, as this popular series continues to make a powerful impact on our community.
KENT STATE STARK FEATURED SPEAKERS SERIES
For 30+ years, the popular Â鶹´«Ã½ at Stark Featured Speakers Series attracted thousands of campus and community members who took advantage of a rare opportunity to be introduced to national and international experts on a wide range of topics and issues that shaped our society.
In March 2024, Kent State Stark partnered with to host Michelle Williams, Destiny's Child singer, songwriter and author, at the Canton Palace Theatre. During the 2022-2023 season, Kent State Stark welcomed to campus environmental activist Erin Brockovich and Hollywood actor and author, Danny Trejo, in partnership with , at the Canton Palace Theatre.
Past notable figures have included Golden Globe-winning actor Henry Winkler, civil rights activist Jesse Jackson, national political broadcaster George Stephanopoulos, journalist and National Geographic Explorer host Lisa Ling, tennis star Billie Jean King, rags-to-riches prodigy Chris Gardner, legendary drummer Max Weinberg, ice cream entrepreneur Jerry Greenfield, cinematographer Spike Lee, CNN's broadcast journalist Anderson Cooper, Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Alan Page, distinguished astronaut and Arizona State Senator Mark Kelly, best-selling authors Nicholas Sparks and Jodi Picoult, and acclaimed journalists Soledad O'Brien and John Quinones - to name a few!