MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Liz Murray to Speak Today at Hutchinson Sports Arena
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Bestselling author and inspirational speaker Liz Murray will share her journey from homelessness to Harvard University today, Oct. 13, at 10:30 a.m. in the Hutchinson Sports Arena.
The presentation concludes the Dillon Lecture Series’ 2026 season.
Hutchinson Community College Director of Marketing Denny Stoecklein said Murray’s experiences offer an important message for audiences, particularly young people.
“This is one that people need to hear, students need to hear,” Stoecklein said.
Murray grew up in the Bronx with parents who struggled with drug addiction. Her childhood included poverty, food shortages and frequent school absences. After her mother died when Murray was 15, she became homeless, sleeping on the streets and riding New York City subway trains overnight.
While experiencing homelessness, Murray completed four years of high school coursework in two years and earned a full scholarship to Harvard. She graduated in 2009 and later earned a master’s degree in psychology of education from Columbia University.
Murray is the author of the bestselling memoir “Breaking Night” and an advocate for underserved youth. Steckline said her work includes developing mentoring programs to help young people succeed.
“Really looking forward to hearing the message she has to share,” he said.
Murray’s presentation will focus on resilience, determination and the power of education, drawing on lessons she learned while overcoming adversity.
The lecture is open to the public. General admission is $10, while students and school groups are admitted free. Tickets may be purchased at the Sports Arena.