KU School of Education & Human Sciences Hosts 2025 Lelon Capps Lecture Series Featuring Dr. Rick Hudson

LAWRENCE, Kan. — The University of Kansas School of Education & Human Sciences hosted an outstanding turnout for the 2025 Lelon Capps Lecture Series, held Monday, October 6, in Joseph R. Pearson Hall and via Zoom.

This year’s featured lecturer, Dr. Rick Hudson, Professor of Mathematics and Chair of the Department of Mathematical Sciences at the University of Southern Indiana, presented “Preparing Data-Literate Students to Contribute Meaningfully in a Data-Driven World.”

The event drew faculty, students, and community educators eager to engage in thoughtful conversation about how data literacy is shaping the future of education. Hudson’s presentation emphasized equipping students with the critical skills needed to interpret, evaluate, and apply data responsibly across disciplines.

“Our goal as educators is not just to help students consume data, but to help them become confident, ethical contributors in a data-saturated world,” said Hudson.

The Lelon Capps Lecture Series honors the legacy of Dr. Lelon Capps, a respected KU faculty member whose work advanced research and excellence in education. The annual event brings leading voices in the field to KU to foster dialogue around innovative teaching and learning practices.

“Dr. Hudson’s insights highlight the importance of preparing current and future educators to navigate and lead in an increasingly data-driven society,” said Dean Rick Ginsberg, School of Education & Human Sciences. “We’re grateful to the Capps family for creating the lecture series honoring Lee Capps, which brings renowned leaders in mathematics and related fields to the School to share their expertise, extending Dr. Capps KU legacy.”

The event was free and open to the public, with hybrid attendance options available to ensure broad access for educators and learners.