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������Ƶ will launch the inaugural Huffman Speaker Series on Social Justice this spring with a lecture by Pulitzer Prize-winning author and journalist Tim Egan.

Egan will present “These Truths, These Threats: The Promise and Peril of the Next American Era” on March 3, 2027 at 7 p.m. in P.E. Monroe Auditorium on ������Ƶ’s Hickory campus. The event is part of the university’s 2026–27 Bears Engage series, which commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States through conversations focused on freedom, responsibility and civic engagement in a diverse democracy.

The Huffman Speaker Series on Social Justice was established through the generosity and vision of the late Richard “Dick” Huffman '72, a ������Ƶ alumnus and attorney, and his wife, Dale Huffman. The endowed series is designed to bring nationally recognized voices to campus to encourage thoughtful dialogue and engagement around issues of social justice and civic life.

“We are incredibly grateful for the vision Dick and Dale Huffman had in establishing this series,” said Cat Niekro, vice president for advancement, who worked with the Huffmans on their plans. “Their generosity is creating opportunities for important conversations on our campus and throughout our broader community. We are honored to help bring that vision to life through this inaugural event.”

Egan was a fitting choice for the first lecture in the series because of his nationally respected work exploring American history, democracy, inequality and public responsibility. 

A former national correspondent and opinion columnist for The New York Times, Egan is the author of several bestselling books, including “The Worst Hard Time,” which received the National Book Award, and “A Fever in the Heartland.” His work often examines the American experience through themes of resilience, justice and civic responsibility.

“As we considered speakers for the inaugural lecture, we kept in mind Dick’s strong preference that the series feature individuals with meaningful national recognition and respected public work,” said Niekro. “Tim Egan is an exceptional fit. His work invites thoughtful reflection and meaningful dialogue across perspectives, which aligns beautifully with both the spirit of the Huffman Speaker Series and this year’s Bears Engage theme.”

Additional details about this event and the entire Bears Engage series, including ticketing information, will be announced at a later date.