The Last Lecture Series

“The best gift an educator can give is to get their students to be self-reflective”

-Randy Pausch during his Last Lecture at Carnegie Mellon University

Mission:

The “Last Lecture” Series will connect students and faculty at The George Washington University in an informal setting to encourage reflection on the everyday convictions, actions and challenges of one’s journey through life.

Objective:

During each “Last Lecture,” one faculty member will be invited to share reflections and stories on their personal and professional lives. The “Last Lecture” will focus on issues that faculty choose based on the premise, “If you knew this was the last lecture you’d ever give to a captive audience of students, what would you say to them?” There is no pre-determined boundaries; rather the program is designed to be entertaining, emotional, moving and inspiring.

Housed in the Student Activities Center, Leadership & Development Program, the “Last Lecture” will aim to build a bridge between academic and student affairs. We are committed to encouraging character development and supporting leadership potential in all students, while meeting these four learning outcomes:

1. Students will see learning as co-created through experiences inside and outside the classroom.

2.  Students and faculty will form meaningful, reciprocal relationships.

3.  Students will understand the diverse interests and passions of faculty that complement their specified subjects.

4.  Students and faculty will reflect on their own identity and values.

If you are or know a faculty member at GW who would be interested in participating in The “Last Lecture” Series, please email Leadership4Change@gmail.com for more details!