Distinguished Lecture Series: Exploring America at 250

The talk, at 7 p.m. on Oct. 16 in the Jordan Ballroom, will reflect on the nation's history, its core ideals, and the often-overlooked theme of forgiveness in public life.

"Honoring, questioning, and even disagreeing about the American experiment is essential," said Andrew Finstuen, interim dean of the College of Education and director of the Institute for Advancing American Values. "These conversations allow us to consider both our history and our future in striving to form 'a more perfect union.'"

McClay holds the Victor Davis Hanson Chair in Classical History and Western Civilization at Hillsdale College. He previously held the G.T. and Libby Blankenship Chair in the History of Liberty at the University of Oklahoma and served as director of the Center for the History of Liberty. He has written extensively on American intellectual history, including "The Masterless: Self and Society in Modern America," which received the Merle Curti Award. Currently, he serves on the national commission planning the celebration of the nation's 250th birthday in 2026.

The Institute for Advancing American Values sponsors Boise State University's Distinguished Lecture Series, which brings eminent speakers from politics, academia and humanitarian activism to campus twice a year to promote dialogue on important issues.

Following McClay's lecture and audience Q&A, a Civic Engagement Fair will be open to the public in the Student Union for 45 minutes, offering attendees the chance to meet representatives from organizations seeking volunteers and members.

The event is free and open to the public.

*A semiquincentennial is the 250th anniversary of a significant event. In this context, it refers to 2026, the 250th anniversary of the country's founding in 1776.

Share This

• Share on Facebook
• Share on X
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share through Email