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Trinity University is proud to announce that Nicholas Kristof, a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and renowned author, will deliver the 2024 Maverick Lecture. The event is set to take place on Thursday, September 19, at 7:30 p.m. in Stieren Theater. Kristof will present “Lessons from 30 Years of Covering the World,” sharing his extensive experience and the insights he’s gained throughout his remarkable career.
The Maverick Lecture is generously underwritten by the William and Salomé Scanlan Foundation, ensuring that Maverick’s legacy of championing civil rights and justice lives on. William “Bill” Scanlan Jr., son of William and Salomé Scanlan, reflects on the origins of the lecture series: “A poet, a journalist, and a lawyer walked into a bar … and the result was the Maverick Lecture Series at Trinity University. I’m grateful for that meeting with writers Naomi Shihab Nye and Jan Jarboe Russell for sharing their dream of the Maverick Lecture.”
Since beginning his journalism journey with The New York Times in 1984, Kristof has made an indelible mark on the field. Over the past three decades, he has reported from six continents and visited more than 150 countries, consistently bringing global issues to the forefront of public consciousness. His fearless and compassionate approach to journalism has earned him widespread acclaim and two Pulitzer Prizes.
The first Pulitzer, awarded in 1990, was shared with his wife, Sheryl WuDunn, for their in-depth coverage of the democracy movement in China, notably the Tiananmen Square protests. Their reporting not only documented the historic events but also provided a poignant portrayal of the struggle for democracy in a repressive regime. This work was a testament to Kristof’s commitment to human rights and his dedication to amplifying the voices of those who are often unheard.
In 2006, Kristof was honored with his second Pulitzer Prize for his coverage of the genocide in Darfur, a region in western Sudan. His reporting on the atrocities committed in the region brought international attention to the crisis and played a significant role in shaping global responses to the conflict. Kristof’s work in Darfur exemplified his belief in the power of journalism to drive change and his unwavering commitment to exposing injustices around the world.
Beyond his Pulitzer-winning work, Kristof has conducted high-profile interviews with influential global leaders, including former U.S. President Barack Obama and former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. His pioneering efforts as the first blogger on The New York Times website further cemented his role as a trailblazer in modern journalism, adapting to new media while maintaining the integrity of traditional reporting.
Kristof has also made a significant impact through his writing, co-authoring five best-selling books with WuDunn. Among them, Half the Sky and A Path Appears have inspired PBS documentary series, extending the reach of their important messages about human rights, gender equality, and social justice. His most recent book, “Chasing Hope: A Reporter’s Life,” offers a deeply personal memoir that reflects on his career and the experiences that have shaped his worldview.
The Maverick Lecture, named in honor of the late Maury Maverick Jr., a legendary civil rights lawyer, Texas legislator, Marine, and outspoken newspaper columnist, continues to be a platform for exploring topics that reflect Maverick’s dedication to American civic discourse.
“On behalf of the Scanlan Foundation, it is an honor to bring Nicholas Kristof to Trinity University as the keynote speaker for the Maverick Lecture,” said Scanlan. “Nicholas, like Maury Maverick, is fiercely independent and has been a voice for the voiceless. Nicholas is truly a Maverick.”
Trinity University extends its gratitude to its Community Partners, including KLRN public television station, KRTU 91.7, San Antonio Report, and Texas Public Radio, for their continued support in bringing this important event to the public. The 2024 Maverick Lecture promises to be an enlightening and thought-provoking evening as Nicholas Kristof shares his reflections on three decades of impactful journalism.
This event is free and open to the public; registration is required. For any questions about the lecture, please reach out to the Office of Conferences and Special Programs at (210) 999-7601. Learn more about the event and register here.
Trinity University affirms freedom of expression. Views expressed by speakers and participants before, during, and after speaking engagements do not represent or reflect the views of the University.
