Speakers in the Schools
The New York Council for the Humanities’ Speakers in the Schools program offers FREE top-notch lectures by a renowned and diverse group of scholars on a wide variety of humanities subjects to high school communities across New York State.
If your application is successful, the Council will cover all costs associated with the program, including the Speaker’s honorarium and travel expenses.
How to apply to host a lecture
Select a Lecture/ Speaker
Browse lecture listings to find the right topic for your students, school community and curriculum.
Find a Lecture/Speaker >
Contact the Speaker to arrange a date and time
Directly contact the Speaker you have selected to establish a mutually agreed upon date and time for the lecture presentation.
Browse Speaker directory >
Apply to the Council
Once you have selected a lecture and confirmed a date and a time with the Speaker, submit the Speakers in the Schools application.
Apply >
Plan your event
As soon as you receive notice of Council approval, start planning your event, including pre- and post-lecture activities.
View Planning Tips >
Follow-Up
Submit your Lecture Coordinator Evaluation.
Access Coordinator Admin >
Speakers in the Schools is made possible by funding from the New York State Legislature.
Get in the September Back-to-School spirit with a literature series
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From Rosie the Riveter to Harriet the Happy Homemaker: Women on Screen During and After World War IIRob EdelmanThis lecture will illustrate the changing roles for and expectations of American women during and after World War II, as portrayed in Hollywood movies. |
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John Burroughs and the Art of Seeing ThingsCharlotte Zoe WalkerWalker reviews the life and the works of the great naturalist John Burroughs (1837-1921), with emphasis on his relevance for readers today. Burroughs, who grew up in the Catskills, was immensely influential in his time, counting Whitman, Ford, Muir, and Roosevelt among his friends; yet, he kept his message simple. |
Book an event in October for National Hispanic Heritage Month
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Jacob K. Javits and Latin American Economic IntegrationSalvador RiveraThis lecture examines efforts by New York Senator Jacob K. Javits to promote the economic integration of Latin America. |
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Spectacles of Religiosity: Sacred Theater in PeruWilma FelicianoPeru celebrates its history in dance-dramas and festivals that combine native spirituality with Catholic icons. These performances explore the endurance of mestizo identity amidst mass culture and globalization. |
Don't see what you're looking for? Apply for funding to create your own program. Read more >
Become a humanities supporter! Your generous contribution to the New York Council for the Humanities will help benefit over one million New Yorkers eager to engage with ideas that shape who we are and how we live.