Total Solar Eclipse

7:30 P.M. | MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2024

BENSON AUDITORIUM

Captain Jerry Linenger is a retired United States Navy flight surgeon and NASA astronaut. A Naval Academy graduate, he holds doctorates in medicine and research methodology as well as dual master's degrees in policy and systems management. During one of the most dangerous and dramatic missions in space history, Linenger spent nearly five months aboard the Russian space station Mir. Despite numerous life-threatening events, he and his Russian crewmates accomplished all mission goals. He was the first American to undock from a space station in a Russian Soyuz capsule and the first American to complete a spacewalk in a Russian spacesuit. At mission completion, he held the endurance record for the longest time in space for an American man. In 2008, Linenger received the Distinguished Service Medal, NASA’s highest award, for his courage and outstanding service to his country. He is the author of Off the Planet and Letters from Mir: An Astronaut’s Letters to His Son.

Learn more about upcoming ASI events here.

7:30 P.M. | TUESDAY, APRIL 9, 2024

BENSON AUDITORIUM

Join us for “Music of the Spheres” featuring the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and showcasing Harding’s Grand Chorus and alumni soloists. This concert will feature Gustav Holst’s monumental suite, “The Planets,” and “Serenade to Music” by Ralph Vaughn Williams. It also includes the world premiere of “Galileo’s Eyeglass,” composed by Dr. Jay Walls, chair of Harding’s Department of Music and composition professor.

HARDING'S CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

Nearly a century ago our founders envisioned a Christ-centered University that would make a profound difference in the world. Their resolute faith, keen sacrifice and enduring spirit has paved the way for us today. It is that legacy we remember and honor as we celebrate 100 years of Harding and look forward to a bold future. Harding University’s Centennial Celebration will commence in September 2023, followed by a yearlong observance culminating on Harding’s 100th birthday in September 2024.

Explore Harding's Centennial