Distinguished Speaker Series
Compelling speakers are sponsored by the George E. McCammon Memorial Distinguished Speaker Series.
The George E. McCammon Memorial Distinguished Speaker Series challenges students to
examine key issues facing our society and apply the tools of their liberal arts curriculum
as they search for truth and enlightenment.
In 1998, Class of 1925 alumnus George A. McCammon established the George E. McCammon
Memorial Distinguished Speaker Series at McKendree with an endowed gift in honor of
his father, Dr. George E. McCammon. Dr. McCammon served as a Methodist minister for
18 years before he became president of McKendree College in 1919.
Like his father, Mr. McCammon believed that significant learning is not limited to
the classroom. With this gift to McKendree in his father’s honor, he created a forum
for the exchange of ideas that occurs outside the classroom.
Distinguished Speaker Series: Shannon Voss
Survivor, Scholar, and Motivational Speaker
Thursday, September 17 // 7:00 p.m.
Shannon Voss shares an extraordinary story of resilience, recovery, and perseverance. After surviving a violent assault that left him with severe brain and heart injuries, paralysis, and the loss of speech, Shannon spent years rebuilding his life through rehabilitation and determination. Today, he communicates primarily through assistive technology and uses his experiences to inspire audiences nationwide. From graduating college with a 4.0 GPA to becoming a nationally recognized advocate for accessibility and AAC communication technology, Shannon’s presentation offers a powerful message about overcoming adversity, embracing possibility, and finding strength through life’s greatest challenges.
FRIENDS: $20.00 Adult / $16.00 Senior / $12.00 Youth
PUBLIC: $25.00 Adult / $20.00 Senior / $15.00 Youth
FREE for McKendree Students, Faculty, & Staff
Distinguished Speaker Series: Dr. Dominic Benford
NASA Astrophysicist and Program Scientist of the Roman Space Telescope
Thursday, February 2 // 7:00 p.m.
Dr. Dominic Benford is Program Scientist for NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, a next-generation observatory designed to explore some of the universe’s biggest mysteries, including dark energy, dark matter, and planets beyond our solar system. A longtime leader in astrophysics and infrared astronomy, Dr. Benford has helped shape numerous NASA space telescope missions and technology initiatives throughout his career. He currently serves in NASA’s Astrophysics Division and has spent more than two decades advancing our understanding of the cosmos.
Tickets are FREE, advanced reservations are required.
Distinguished Speaker Series: Sean Astin
American Film Actor, Director, Voice Artist and Producer
Monday, March 15 // 7:00 p.m.
Sean Astin has captivated audiences for more than four decades as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable and beloved actors. From his iconic performances as Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Mikey in The Goonies, and Rudy in the inspirational sports classic Rudy, to his fan-favorite role in Netflix’s Stranger Things, Astin’s work has inspired generations of moviegoers. Beyond the screen, he is a bestselling author, accomplished director and producer, dedicated advocate for literacy and civic engagement, and an accomplished marathon runner. Known for his warmth, humor, and authenticity, Astin brings a unique perspective on perseverance, leadership, storytelling, and the power of pursuing one’s dreams. Join this celebrated actor for an unforgettable evening of conversation, insight, and inspiration.
TICKET PRICING TBD
