2026 Hackley Distinguished Lecture in the Humanities

The Hackley Public Library’s 2026 Hackley Distinguished Lecture will be presented by Frank Bednarek. His presentation, “Bad Bunny, Snoop Dogg, & Martha Stewart: Why We Need Them” will connect the challenges to our local cultural institutions with an assessment of our strengths and ways to support and defend our community’s cultural life and heritage.

The lecture will take place on Thursday, May 21, at 7 p.m., at the Muskegon Museum of Art, with a reception following at Hackley Public Library. The event is free and open to the public.

Frank is a former Muskegon Administrator, Owner of Frank Bednarek Consulting Services, and Partner/Co-owner of Hooker DeJong Architects & Engineers. He is also a dedicated patron of the arts.

Among his many community involvements, Frank is currently Chair of the Muskegon Museum of Art (MMA) Trustees and Co-chair of its Capital Campaign. The MMA is a place where Frank’s immeasurable contribution of time and talent has had a regional and national impact.

Commendation for Service to the Humanities Awards will be presented to Don Crandall, Nancy Crandall, Kathy Evans, and Phyllis Wahlberg (in memoriam). Each of these individuals has made deep and lasting contributions to the humanities in Muskegon County, which will be celebrated at the event.