Burke Lectureship Welcomes Nicholas Kristof

In a moment of heightened political polarization, rising global conflict, and urgent humanitarian need, The Eugene M. Burke C.S.P. Lectureship on Religion and Society is honored to welcome Nicholas Kristof—Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist, bestselling author, and human rights advocate—to UC San Diego’s Jeannie Auditorium on Monday, September 15, 2025.

Kristof’s lecture arrives at a critical time, when questions of truth, moral leadership, and civic responsibility dominate both national headlines and community conversations. With decades of reporting from the frontlines of poverty, migration, and inequality—both abroad and within American communities—Kristof brings a deeply human perspective to the ethical crises that shape our world. His talk will offer not just insight, but a stirring call to action—inviting audiences to reflect on the role of compassion, faith, and activism in building more just, informed, and resilient communities.

As co-author of the acclaimed books Tightrope: Americans Reaching for Hope and Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide, Kristof is recognized for his fearless storytelling and unwavering commitment to amplifying marginalized voices. His reporting has shed light on the lived realities of migrant families, rural laborers, and communities—particularly Latino and immigrant populations—often left out of mainstream narratives.

The conversation will be moderated by Marco Werman, award-winning journalist and host of The World, a coproduction of WGBH Boston and PRX, the Public Radio Exchange. Werman’s global sensibility and dedication to underreported stories will add depth to an evening that promises to be as provocative as it is purposeful.

In an era where democratic values are under strain and civic discourse often fractured, this lecture stands as an evocative and rousing opportunity to re-engage with the moral dimensions of public life. It invites individuals across all backgrounds to consider how truth, empathy, and ethical courage can serve as tools for meaningful change—locally and globally.

The Burke Lectureship on Religion and Society is an endowed lecture series honoring Father Eugene M. Burke, CSP—a Paulist priest, theologian, and scholar who was deeply engaged with UC San Diego’s Catholic and interfaith communities. Founded in collaboration with campus and faith-based partners, the Lectureship continues to champion public dialogue on religion, ethics, and social justice, supported by an endowment administered by the UC San Diego Foundation.

The Burke Lectureship is presented in partnership with the UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies, whose mission embraces lifelong learning and fosters a sense of belonging across the broader San Diego community. Together, the partnership underscores the university’s commitment to inclusive, civically engaged programming that informs and inspires.

This event is presented in thoughtful coordination with the Helen Edison and Burke Lectureships, as part of UC San Diego’s broader commitment to public dialogue that uplifts diverse communities and reflects the ethical, civic, and human dimensions of our most pressing societal challenges.

EVENT: The Burke Lectureship Welcomes Nicholas Kristof to UC San Diego for a Timely Conversation on Journalism, Ethics, and Global CompassionDATE: Monday, September 15 , 2025TIME:

5:30-6:00 PM book sales & venue doors open

6:00 - 8:00 PM Presentation

*8:00 - 8:30 PM Book signing to follow the eventLOCATION: The Jeannie AuditoriumPARKING: Scholars Parking Structure (9655 Scholars Dr N, La Jolla, CA 92093)

ADDITIONALLY

In a time of cultural polarization and deepening divisions in American civic life, the Helen Edison Lectureship at UC San Diego is proud to welcome Frank Bruni—acclaimed journalist, bestselling author, and contributing opinion writer for The New York Times—for a compelling evening of conversation on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the Jeannie Auditorium. https://FrankBruni.eventbrite.com

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Jeannie Hall, 9615 Scholars Drive North, San Diego, United States