Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Benjamin Franklin

He was one of the most remarkable and celebrated men of his time. Statesman, inventor, author, printer, and diplomat, Benjamin Franklin commanded attention throughout his life, at home or on any world stage. His wisdom not only pervades the framework of the Declaration of Independence but was aimed at the common person as well.

California State University Channel Islands is proud to present its celebration of the 300th birthday of Benjamin Franklin. The “CSUCI Ben Franklin Distinguished Lecture Series,” designed to provide an enriching and engaging intellectual experience, is part of the University’s commitment to community and academic and civic engagement.

“The ‘CSUCI Ben Franklin Distinguished Lecture Series’ will feature the preeminent scholars on Franklin’s life, times, and legacies,” says Nian-Sheng Huang, CSUCI associate professor and chair of the history program. “Nearly all are Pulitzer Prize-winning authors. We are fortunate to have such distinguished scholars for these presentations.”

Carla Mulford, associate professor of English, Pennsylvania State University, “Benjamin Franklin, Traditions of Liberalism, and the Plan for an Academy at Philadelphia,” 2 p.m., Conference Hall 1, Thursday, February 9.

Michael Kammen, the Newton C. Farr Professor of American History and Culture, Cornell University, “Seeing and Being Seen: Franklin’s Visionary Fame in the Context of the Nation’s Founders,” 6:30 p.m., Science Auditorium, Thursday, February 9.

Gordon Wood, the Alva O. Way University Professor and Professor of History, Brown University, “The Americanization of Benjamin Franklin,” 2 p.m., Conference Hall 1, Thursday, March 30.

J.A. Leo Lemay, the H. F. DuPont Winterthur Professor of English, University of Delaware, “Franklin’s Intellectual and Personal Characteristics,” 6:30 p.m., Conference Hall 1, Thursday, March 30. (Lemay will also sign copies of his latest Franklin biography.)

David McCullough, two-time winner of a Pulitzer Prize, University commencement speaker, Saturday, May 20.

The University welcomes public schools, community colleges, universities, and members of the community to join this celebration.

Those interested in attending should RSVP to Cindy Eaves, events coordinator, Academic Affairs, at 805-437-8598. Follow parking and event signs to event locations. Event parking is $6. Permits must be purchased from permit dispensers in Lots A1, A2, and A4.

The Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary’s projects will form the official national celebration for America’s first founding father to reach 300. To find out how you can join in, please visit us at www.benfranklin300.org.

Happy Birthday, Ben!

In honor of Benjamin Franklin’s 300th birthday, a special event, created by the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary, was held Tuesday, January 17, at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia with 300 invited guests, including Nian-Sheng Huang, CSUCI associate professor and chair of the history program. The event, “300 Years and Still Counting: America Celebrates Franklin’s 300th Birthday,” featured a large birthday cake with 300 candles. Dr. Huang is the second person to the left of the kite. Both the national celebration and CSUCI’s events are dedicated to educating the public about Franklin’s enduring legacy and inspiring renewed appreciation of the values he embodied.