Last Lecture Series named program of year

Baldwin City, Kan. — The National Association of Campus Activities honored Baker University‘s 2014 Last Lecture series, featuring the Rev. Ira DeSpain, as the program of the year at the NACA Central Regional Conference Oct. 23-26 in Arlington, Texas.

The region covered Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and Tennessee. Baker competed against more than 60 schools of all sizes at the conference.

The Last Lecture Series is sponsored by Baker’s Student Activities Council. DeSpain, a 1970 Baker graduate, spoke at the series in March, three months before he retired after serving as an ordained minister for 42 years, including 22 years as minister to Baker University. A third-generation minister, DeSpain’s address at the series focused on living a life of moderation and balance.

“This is truly a university award as many departments have worked together to create such a strong university tradition,” said Randy Flowers, director of student life.