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Dr. Christopher Watkin is this year's presenter at the Stob Lecture Series at Calvin Theological Seminary. His talk "The Human Remains: Fragility and Fulfilment in the Age of Artificial Intelligence" examines patterns of the Bible's storyline to help make sense of modern life and culture.

Rev. Naomi Tutu will share how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s principles can guide reconciliation, justice, and cross-cultural understanding. Drawing on her lifelong activism and experience leading Truth and Reconciliation workshops, Naomi offers practical insights for building bridges across race, gender, and culture.

Kaitlin Curtice will reveal how powerful stories function like living seeds, growing into trees that define who we are. An award-winning author and poet-storyteller, Kaitlin will incorporate readings from her newest book, Everything Is a Story, to discover ways we can interact with stories and reclaim them for love and kinship.

Majora Carter will share how economic diversity is a cornerstone of healthy, vibrant communities. Guided by her experience in urban revitalization, Majora illustrates how low-status communities need to use the same talent-retention strategies that successful business implement, reducing the brain-drain that cripples local economic progress.

Dr. Vivek Murthy will discuss the growing epidemic of loneliness and its profound impact on health and well-being. Drawing from his book Together and his experience as U.S. Surgeon General, Vivek will explore how human connection and strong communities are essential for personal and public health.

Harry Smith will share insights on how simplifying life can create more meaning, satisfaction, and peace. Drawing on decades of storytelling as an Emmy- and Peabody-winning journalist, Harry offers reflections on balance, fulfillment, and what truly matters.

David Brooks will help us become more understanding toward others and find the joy that comes from being seen. His latest book, How to Know a Person, draws on neuroscience, theater, philosophy, history, and education. He will share how this integrated approach can enhance human connection.

Dr. Samantha Nutt will explore the devastating impact of war on civilians and the global implications of conflict. Drawing from over 20 years of frontline humanitarian work and her bestselling book Damned Nations, she offers a powerful, firsthand perspective on war, aid, and public health.

Wu Man will share how the pipa, a pear-shaped, four-stringed Chinese lute, serves as a bridge between cultures. Through music and storytelling, she explores how this ancient instrument has helped her connect with her heritage and engage audiences across the globe. Drawing on decades of performance, composition, and cross-cultural collaboration, Wu Man offers a compelling vision of music as a tool for understanding and unity.

Tom Medema will explore how America’s National Parks serve as living classrooms. Drawing on decades of experience as a ranger and senior leader in the National Park Service, Tom shares powerful stories that illuminate how these treasured landscapes contribute to America’s story over the past 250 years.