Funded by the Charles P. and Eleanor Taft Memorial Fund, the Taft Lecture Series features provocative thinkers, writers, teachers, theologians, social justice activists, and leaders in the fields of religion, social science, the arts, politics, and more. This fall, we welcome Lerone A. Martin to share his wisdom with us.

During this inspiring lecture, Lerone A. Martin will share his insights and wisdom with us all.

Lerone Martin is the Martin Luther King, Jr., Centennial Professor in Religious Studies, African & African American Studies, and The Nina C. Crocker Faculty Scholar at Stanford University. He also serves as the Director of the Martin Luther King, Jr., Research and Education Institute and Senior Editor of the Institute’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Papers Project.

Martin is an award-winning author. His latest book, Young King: The Making of Martin Luther King, Jr., chronicles the overlooked adolescence and calling of Martin Luther King, Jr. It was published by HarperCollins in May 2026.

Following the lecture, there will be a book signing. A LIMITED number of copies of his latest book are still available to purchase on-site before and after the lecture. We encourage anyone who wants to have him sign a book to purchase it before the event and bring it with you.

Lectures are always FREE to the public, but space is limited. Registration is encouraged to secure your free ticket.