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Last Lecture

The “Last Lecture” Series at the George Washington University 

“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.

Description:

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.

 
During each bi-semesterly “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 are no pre-determined boundaries; rather the program is designed to be entertaining, emotional, moving and inspiring.

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Want to be a faculty presenter of a Last Lecture?  We'd love to have you!  Please email leaders@gwu.edu 

Considerations for Presenters:

o       What topic(s) are you passionate enough about to discuss for your “Last Lecture”? 

o       What wisdom would you try to impart to the world if you knew it was your last chance?

o       What matters to you most?

o       What is your personal philosophy?

o       Professional/personal journey

o       Life experiences/stories including challenges and obstacles