Renowned Author Margaret Atwood to Speak as the Spring 2026 University of Arkansas Distinguished Lectures

The University of Arkansas Distinguished Lectures Committee will welcome internationally acclaimed author Margaret Atwood for a public lecture on Tuesday, April 14, at the Fayetteville Town Center. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and the lecture will begin at 7 p.m.

Margaret Atwood, one of the most influential literary voices of our time, is best known for her groundbreaking novel The Handmaid's Tale, which was adapted into an Emmy Award-winning television series. Its sequel, The Testaments, earned the prestigious Booker Prize, further solidifying her legacy as a visionary storyteller. Across more than 50 works spanning fiction, poetry and nonfiction, Atwood's writing has been translated into more than 40 languages and has garnered numerous international honors. 

In addition to her celebrated novels, Atwood's recent memoir, Book of Lives, offers an intimate look into her life and creative process, earning recognition as a New York Times bestseller and one of the year's best books by multiple major publications. Her latest short story collection, Old Babes in the Wood, continues her exploration of the human experience with her signature wit, insight and emotional depth.

Atwood's work is widely recognized for its powerful examination of societal structures, human rights, and the role of storytelling in shaping cultural conversations. Her lectures challenge audiences to reflect on contemporary issues while drawing connections between literature and real-world events. 

University of Arkansas students may reserve tickets beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 6, through HogSync. On Wednesday, April 8, at 10 a.m. if event is not sold out and tickets are still available, the public can reserve through hogsync.uark.edu.

This event is sponsored by the Distinguished Lectures Committee and Associated Student Government through Student Involvement & Leadership and is supported by the Student Activities Fee. For questions or for accommodations due to disability, please contact Student Involvement & Leadership at silteam@uark.edu or call 479-575-5255.

The Distinguished Lectures Committee is a program in the Division of Student Affairs.

About the Division of Student Affairs: The Division of Student Affairs supports the whole student by cultivating transformative experiences and environments that promote student well-being, sense of community, and success. We prioritize student access, well-being, and belonging, post-graduation success, and building a strong organizational culture.