A respected regional tradition is entering an exciting new era. The long-running Ruth Pauley Lecture Series has officially rebranded as Ruth Pauley Speakers, an evolution that honors its legacy while signaling a bold, modern vision for public dialogue in the Sandhills.
With a new name, new look, and a powerhouse 2025-2026 season ahead, Ruth Pauley Speakers is doubling down on its mission to spark curiosity, invite reflection, and foster community through live forums featuring leading voices of our time.
“We’ve always believed in the power of ideas to bring people together,” said Dr. Robert Brown, RPS Board Chair. “This new chapter allows us to carry that mission forward with more clarity, inclusivity, and impact.”
Each event in the 2025-2026 series is free and open to the public. Tickets are required and available at TicketMeSandhills.com. All lectures begin at 7 p.m. at the Bradshaw Performing Arts Center on the campus of Sandhills Community College. Every evening includes a post-lecture Q&A session, giving audience members a chance to engage directly with each speaker.
2025-2026 Series Lineup
Sept. 23
Dr. Scott Bonn
Serial Killers and the Psychology of True Crime
Renowned criminologist and best-selling author Dr. Scott Bonn, known for his work with high-profile true crime shows, takes guests inside the disturbing minds of serial killers like Dennis Rader (BTK) and David Berkowitz (Son of Sam). This chilling yet compelling presentation explores society’s ongoing fascination with the darkest corners of human behavior.
Recommended for mature audiences.
Oct. 21
Lt. Gen. John N.T. “Jack” Shanahan, USAF (Ret.)
Artificial Intelligence and National Security
As the founding director of the Department of Defense’s Joint Artificial Intelligence Center, Gen. Shanahan has been at the forefront of integrating AI across military operations. His talk, “AI and the Digital Revolution,” unpacks the opportunities, risks, and global power shifts driven by emerging technology, offering an insider’s perspective on how innovation is redefining national security.
Jan. 20
Dr. Diego Bohórquez
Your Gut, Your Brain: The Next Health Frontier
Neuroscientist and TED speaker Dr. Diego Bohórquez leads groundbreaking research at Duke University exploring the gut-brain connection. In this fascinating presentation, he reveals how gut feelings are rooted in real biology, shaped by newly discovered neuropod cells that communicate directly with the brain. His work may unlock new treatments for obesity, anxiety, and depression.
March 24
Wendy Young
Standing Up for Children on the Move
As president of Kids in Need of Defense, Wendy Young has spent decades advocating for unaccompanied immigrant children. Drawing on her work in U.S. policy and global human rights, Young outlines a path forward for compassionate, practical immigration reform and shares firsthand stories from the front lines of one of today’s most pressing humanitarian issues.
April 28
NG Live Special Engagement: Dr. Lindsay Zanno
Rise of T. rex
In this thrilling finale, National Geographic Explorer and paleontologist Dr. Lindsay Zanno takes the audience back 66 million years to unearth the untold story of Tyrannosaurus rex. Through fossil discoveries and fieldwork across North America, Zanno reveals how this apex predator rose to power and what its ancient world can teach us today.
Ruth Pauley Speakers continues to serve as the Sandhills’ premier platform for public thought leadership, bridging generations and perspectives through ideas that matter. For tickets, season details, and speaker updates, visit TicketMeSandhills.com or RuthPauley.org and follow Ruth Pauley Speakers on social media.
Contributed.
