Tsai Lecture Series

The Tsai Lecture Series, established in 2000 with a generous endowment from Felix H.T. Tsai, has become a cornerstone of the Harvard University Asia Center's efforts to foster global dialogue and scholarship.

This lecture series enables the Asia Center to invite distinguished leaders from various fields, including academia, government, international organizations, business, architecture, journalism, law, and humanitarian work, from around the world to Harvard, creating a platform for the exchange of ideas that shapes our understanding of Asia and its role in the global community. The annual lecture is open to the public, reflecting the Center's commitment to accessibility and intellectual engagement.

 Over the years, the Tsai Lecture Series has featured a diverse and illustrious group of speakers, each bringing unique insights and perspectives. Notable past speakers have included the late Surin Pitsuwan, former Secretary-General of ASEAN, known for his efforts to promote regional stability and cooperation; Pritzker Prize-winning architect and humanitarian Shigeru Ban, recognized for his innovative use of materials in disaster relief architecture; internationally renowned human rights lawyer and advocate Asma Jahangir, celebrated for her courageous work defending the rights of marginalized communities; the Honorable Caroline Kennedy, former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, who has contributed significantly to U.S.-Japan relations; the Honorable Kathleen Stephens, former U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, who played a key role in strengthening diplomatic ties; 2021 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa, whose fearless journalism has exposed corruption and abuse of power; and Dr. Lobsang Sangay, former Sikyong (President) of the India-based Central Tibetan Administration, a leading voice for the Tibetan people.  

The Tsai Lecture Series continues to be a vital forum for exploring the complexities of Asian societies and their interactions with the rest of the world, offering valuable insights that resonate far beyond the walls of Harvard. 

The most recent Tsai Lecture was delivered on September 24, 2024, by Dr. Noeleen Heyzer, a social scientist and the former Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, on Rethinking Multilateral Governance: Securing Our Future.