National Academy of Sciences president to address 'State of Science in America' at K-State

Marcia McNutt to deliver President's Distinguished Lecture on Oct. 21

By K‑State Office of the President

Marcia McNutt

Marcia McNutt, president of the National Academy of Sciences, will examine America's scientific leadership and the future of innovation during Kansas State University's President's Distinguished Lecture Series at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, in the K-State Alumni Center. Doors will open at 3:30 p.m., and light refreshments will be served.

McNutt's lecture, "State of Science in America and the Future of Innovation," will provide a candid assessment of the U.S. research enterprise and its evolution since World War II. She will explore how national investment in science, engineering and medicine has driven unprecedented prosperity, medical breakthroughs and technological advances that have transformed daily life.

"We are honored to welcome Dr. McNutt to Kansas State University for this timely and critical discussion about America's scientific future," said K-State President Richard Linton. "Her insights into how we can strengthen and evolve our research enterprise are essential as we work to maintain our nation's leadership in innovation while addressing the complex challenges of the 21st century. This lecture exemplifies our commitment to bringing world-class expertise to our campus and community."

The lecture will provide an honest evaluation of the current strengths and weaknesses of America's scientific enterprise and offer insights on how it can evolve to meet the challenges of the coming decades. McNutt will also provide a second seminar, "AI's Impacts on Trust in Science," at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, in 1014 Throckmorton Hall.

As president of the National Academy of Sciences, McNutt leads the nation's most prestigious scientific advisory body, which provides independent, objective advice to the federal government on matters related to science and technology. Her distinguished career spans leadership roles in academia, government and industry.

The President's Distinguished Lecture Series features world-renowned scholars of national and international stature from across human endeavor. Designed by K-State's University Distinguished Professors, the series advances the Next-Gen K-State vision by inspiring learning, creativity, discovery and engagement that positively impacts society and transforms lives in Kansas and around the world.

As part of Extension and Engagement Week, the lecture is free and open to the public. For more information and to watch the livestream of the main lecture, visit the lecture series website.

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