The annual Dr. Byron I. Bitar Memorial Lecture Series has captured the minds of students, faculty, and community members for just over two decades. Beginning in 2004, a year after Dr. Bitar’s untimely death, the lecture series was endowed by the William C. Kriner family in memory of the beloved philosophy professor. During Homecoming weekend, on October 23, 2025, the final annual Bitar Lecture was held, featuring Professor of Philosophy Robert Frazier, PhD on “Augustine in Friendship: The Ground of Civility.”
In addition to the lectures, the annual event included a special by-invitation banquet for student and alumni philosophy majors, honoring the William Kriner family and the Bitar family. Each year, the annual Bitar cash prize for Best Student Philosophy Paper, a gift from Mrs. Gail Bitar, was announced at this dinner.
As the Bitar Lecture Series concludes its impressive run, its legacy and the memory of Dr. Byron I. Bitar will be celebrated throughout the school year in The Bitar Colloquia, a one-time series of four speakers engaging philosophy in conversation.
2025-26 Colloquia Speakers:
- Esther Meek, PhD November 5, 2025; 7 p.m. in John White Chapel
“The Mother’s Smile: Philosophical Formation in the Welcome of Mother and Friends”
- Laura Cerbus, PhD February 25, 2026; 7 p.m. in John White Chapel
“Fruitful Wounds: Bonaventure’s Cruciform Aesthetics”
- Timothy Frazier, PhD March 25, 2026; 7 p.m. in John White Chapel
“Wondered Recognition: The Drama of Person, Friendship, and Community”
- Brandon Zaffini, PhD April 15, 2026; 7 p.m. in John White Chapel
“Visible Authorities: A Defense of Liberty Against Liberalism”
For more information, visit geneva.edu/dept/bible-philosophy/bitar/colloquia.
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