Centre College’s 2024 Press Distinguished Lecture featuring renowned scholar and filmmaker Henry Louis Gates, Jr. has been rescheduled for October 8, 2024. Initially scheduled for April 19, the event was postponed due to a family medical need preventing Professor Gates from traveling for the next two months.

“While we were disappointed about the postponement, we are very thankful that Professor Gates was able to reschedule his engagement so quickly. We sincerely appreciate the understanding and support of our community,” said Norton Center Executive Director Steve Hoffman. “We remain committed to providing an exceptional experience for all attendees and look forward to welcoming Professor Gates to Centre College this October.”

Ticket buyers have been notified of the unexpected postponement and were fully refunded for the April 19 lecture. Tickets for the October 8 event will go on sale with 2024-25 Season Subscription Packages in late June. Single ticket sales will open to the public on August 5, 2024.

“Finding Your Roots: A Conversation with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.,” will delve into genealogy, genetics and history’s impact on our lives today. Professor Gates, known for his groundbreaking work on PBS series like “Finding Your Roots,” will offer insights drawn from his extensive research and personal experiences.

Professor Gates is among the most prominent and respected figures in African American studies and genealogy. As the Alphonse Fletcher University Professor and Director of the Hutchins Center for African and African American Research at Harvard University, Gates has dedicated his career to exploring and illuminating the complex histories of race, identity and culture in America and beyond.

Norton Center Box Office associates are available Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM to personally assist patrons with this rescheduled event. Please call 859-236-4692 with any questions or concerns.