About Us

The Presidents' College is an informal community of people—living in the greater Hartford area—who come together for brief courses and stand-alone lectures on almost every imaginable topic, including history, literature, science, current events, the fine and performing arts, and much more. Many of our instructors are drawn from the University faculty, but we also engage distinguished figures from the wider world.

Anyone can become a part of our community by simply registering for one or more of our events. 

As you will see, the cost of our offerings is remarkably low. Nevertheless, the College generates a modest surplus each year that directly benefits the University’s library system. Over the past decade, that surplus has returned more than $250,000 to library operations, which has been directly used to purchase books, musical scores, scholarly periodicals, computer equipment, and all the things that a modern university library requires in order to serve the needs of its students.

So there is a pleasing symmetry to the program: Presidents’ College members enjoy intellectual stimulation and engagement, while simultaneously contributing to the education of the next generation of informed citizens.

Please consider becoming part of our vibrant, friendly community. I look forward to personally greeting you at one of our upcoming events.

Randi Ashton-Pritting
Interim Director, Presidents' College

Courses and Lectures

Duncaster Lectures

Library Lectures

McAuley Lectures