Free Expressions: Academic Freedom and the Public Good

Join Phi Beta Kappa in Chicago for the second of four nationwide events celebrating the Society’s 250th anniversary!
About this Event

In 2026, The Phi Beta Kappa Society celebrates its 250th anniversary. This milestone highlights the power of the arts and sciences to shape leadership, advance discovery, and strengthen democracy and culture.

As part of a nationwide series of four anniversary events, we invite you to join us in Chicago, Illinois, for an evening of ideas, dialogue, and meaningful connection. We will bring together Phi Beta Kappa members, academic leaders, scholars, and friends of the Society for a special program celebrating the values that have guided Phi Beta Kappa since its founding in 1776.

Free Expressions: Academic Freedom and the Public Good will feature a keynote address and fireside conversation with Dr. Carla Hayden, 14th Librarian of Congress, reflecting on the indispensable role of libraries, scholarship, and the open exchange of ideas in sustaining a vibrant and democratic society. The program will also include the presentation of special awards, in partnership with the American Philosophical Society and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, honoring exceptional scholars who advance the values that have defined our nation’s intellectual tradition.

Bringing together leaders from higher education, philanthropy, the arts and sciences, and the civic sector, this anniversary celebration will affirm Phi Beta Kappa’s legacy while looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities that will shape the next generation. The program will take place in Preston Bradley Hall at the Chicago Cultural Center. A reception will follow in the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Hall and Rotunda.

Guests will enjoy a dynamic exchange of ideas, meaningful networking, and an inspiring celebration of Phi Beta Kappa’s 250-year legacy and future.

We hope that you will join us.

Agenda

🕑: 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
250th Anniversary Program
Host: Secretary Frederick M. Lawrence

Info: The main 250th anniversary program, Free Expressions: Academic Freedom and the Public Good, will feature a keynote address and fireside conversation with Carla Hayden, 14th Librarian of Congress, on the role of libraries, scholarship, and the free exchange of ideas in sustaining a vibrant democracy. The program will also include the presentation of special awards, in partnership with the American Philosophical Society and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, recognizing exceptional achievements in scholarship. The program will take place in the Preston Bradley Hall at the Chicago Cultural Center.

🕑: 08:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Cocktail Reception

Info: Conclude the evening with a reception in the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Hall & Rotunda at the Chicago Cultural Center. Guests will have the opportunity to continue conversations sparked during the main program and connect with fellow members and speakers in a relaxed setting.