Programs | UG 2026

Speakers | 2026-2027

The University Guild hosts monthly lectures from October through May in beautiful Scott Hall Lounge. Lectures are scheduled for the first Monday of the month (unless otherwise announced) and begin at 1:30pm and last approximately one hour. There is a lush reception of sweet and savory treats and beverages following the lectures, and all are invited to stay, mingle, and chat with the speakers. Admission is included in your membership fee. Guests and non-members are welcome for a modest $10 (currently payable in cash or check) at the door. Walk-ins are welcome. No reservation required. Directions to Scott Hall are below.

Chair and David and Mary Winton Green Curator of European Painting and Sculpture.

Gloria Groom | September 14, 2026

What, How and Why of Museum Acquisitions

Gloria will present some recent additions in the Department of Painting and Sculpture of Europe at the Art Institute of Chicago and the philosophy, pragmatism and the hunt for the transformative object.

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Independent Lecturer, American Politics; Ph.D., Northwestern University.

Julie Strauss | October 5, 2026

Major Supreme Court Decisions of the 2025/2026 Court Term

Julie provides a review of the major decisions of the Supreme Court’s term that just concluded.

This is an opportunity to take a deep dive into the Supreme Court’s docket.

Ph.D., Northwestern University; specializing in U.S. History and American Studies.

Carol Summerfield | November 2, 2026

Transformation of the American Home in the Mid-Century

This program covers all the fascinating dynamics of how the United States came out of the war and shifted what we now consider the typical American lifestyle. It's a tale of propaganda, industry expansion, gender roles, and how chemistry and electricity transform the American home

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Chicago Tribune Theater Critic and Editorial Page Editor.

Chris Jones | December 7, 2026

Chris will review theater both in Chicago and New York.

Historical Interpreter, Author & Public Speaker; Ph.D., Northwestern University in U.S. History & American Studies.

Leslie Goddard | January 11, 2027

A Living History Portrayal: Gilda Radner

This costumed portrayal explores the enduring legacy of a comedienne whose influence continues to shape comedy fifty years after her debut.

University Historian, Ph.D., Northwestern University; specializing in U.S. History and American Studies.

Kevin Leonard | February 1, 2027

Leonard widely known as the foremost authority on the history of the University, brimming with knowledge about the people and events that have shaped the institution since its founding.

Location Information

Address

The University Guild

601 University Place, Scott Hall / Guild Lounge
Evanston, IL 60608

Directions

Scott Hall is at the NW intersection of Chicago Avenue, Sheridan Road, and University Place, across from the iconic Northwestern Arch. Enter through the doors on the south side of the building.

Accessibility

There is a ramp to the lower level of Scott Hall just to the west of our south entrance which will take you to an elevator to the second floor.

Parking

A public parking garage is located two blocks south at Chicago Avenue and Clark Street. Street parking is limited to two hours.