Since its founding in 1935, the Fort Worth Lecture Foundation members have been educated and inspired by outstanding speakers from across the country. Through a variety of programs, Lecture Foundation members have explored social and cultural issues that shape their world. Programming is constantly evolving to align with the interests of a diverse and intellectually curious membership. To that end, we encourage diversity of age, race, and ethnicity, and inclusion among our members, leadership, guests, and programs.
Speakers over the years
Members
Years since beginning
Eleanor Roosevelt (1884–1962) was an influential American figure, notable for her roles as First Lady, diplomat, and champion of human rights. Born into privilege, she married Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd U.S. President. Despite societal norms, Eleanor redefined the role of First Lady, becoming a vocal advocate for civil rights, women's rights, and social justice. She played a pivotal role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and served as the U.S. delegate to the United Nations. Eleanor's legacy endures as a trailblazer, promoting equality and justice, leaving an indelible mark on American history.
Edna St. Vincent Millay (1892-1950) was an American poet, playwright, and feminist known for her lyrical and emotionally charged verse. Born in Maine, she achieved literary acclaim with her collection "Renascence and Other Poems." Her work often explored themes of love, freedom, and individualism, earning her a Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1923 for "The Ballad of the Harp-Weaver." Millay was a bohemian figure of the Jazz Age, known for her unconventional lifestyle and progressive views on gender and sexuality. Her influence on modern poetry and her commitment to women's rights have made her an enduring symbol of literary and feminist history.
Salvador Dalí (1904–1989) was a pioneering Spanish surrealist painter known for his eccentricity and imaginative brilliance. Born in Catalonia, Dalí's early exposure to Impressionism, Freudian theory, and avant-garde movements influenced his unique artistic style. Renowned for his meticulously detailed, dreamlike canvases, he produced iconic works such as "The Persistence of Memory." Dalí's flamboyant personality matched his art; his mustache and eccentric behavior were as distinctive as his paintings. A master of self-promotion, Dalí's impact extended beyond art, influencing fashion, film, and popular culture. His legacy cements him as a central figure in 20th-century surrealism.
All Rights Reserved | Fort Worth Lecture Foundation