The Cowan Lecture Series—
”Disabling Democracy: Politics Without Poetry”

Monday, August 26, 2024
7:00 PM—8:30 PM
Reception at 6:30 PM
IN-PERSON: Educator Members: Free
Neighbor Members: $10
Non-Members: $20
ONLINE: $10

Location: The MacMillan Institute | 518 East Wheatland Road | Duncanville, Texas 75116

Join us for the inaugural event of the Cowan Lecture Series! Dr. Claudia MacMillan will explain how “poetry” as art—and especially literature—is essential to build the minds and souls that the communities of democracy require.

This event is offered in-person and online!


Friday Night Salon

September 6, October 4, November 1, and December 6, 2024
6:30 PM–8:30 PM; Reception at 6:00 PM
Educator Members: Free
Neighbor Members: $10
Non-Members: $20
Tuition includes reception food & beverages
Location: The MacMillan Institute | 518 East Wheatland Road | Duncanville, Texas 75116

Dr. Larry Allums, an expert moderator and community builder, brings his popular program to The MacMillan Institute! Friday Night Salon is a monthly forum for thoughtful conversation in community about significant topics both timely and timeless.

Please register each month by noon the day thereof.


Friday Night Lights Films

October 25, November 8, and December 13, 2024
Reception at 6:00 PM
Film at 6:30 PM
$10 each night for the reception
Location: The MacMillan Institute | 518 East Wheatland Road | Duncanville, Texas 75116

A cultural feast through the power of music and the art of film on three special nights 

Friday, October 25
A boarding school in
France where a failed music teacher and rowdy orphans form a community and a choir—a Classic French film with gorgeous music, humor, and pathos   

Friday, November 8
A cellist returning to his hometown in
Japan with an unusual work that teaches him about life and death—Academy Award Winner for Best Foreign Film

Friday, December 13
A small village in
Paraguay where musical instruments made from trash help transform the lives of young people and all who hear them

This series is a special collaboration between The MacMillan Institute and humanities educator Dr. Anne Perry.

Please register by noon the day of the show. 


 Moby Dick Marathon Read

Friday, December 27-28, 2024
4:30 PM - we’re finished!
Location: The MacMillan Institute | 518 East Wheatland Road | Duncanville, Texas 75116

Join us to read the entirety of Moby-Dick! We'll begin at 4:30 PM on December 27 and read until we're through! Sign up to read if you dare, or come and listen. 

This is a free event!