Frances Willson Thompson was a true original. Interested in books and ideas, Mrs. Thompson believed that a community could and should be enriched through dialogue. It was that belief that led Mrs. Thompson to create an iconic lecture series that would bring leading experts to Flint to debate and discuss the critical issues of our times.

Since 1977, the University of Michigan-Flint has had the distinct honor of hosting this annual gathering. We are forever grateful to Mrs. Thompson and the Thompson family for this lasting legacy.