Writer and Artist Jenny Odell to Speak at 2026 Henberg Environmental Lecture

The College of Idaho will welcome Jenny Odell, bestselling author and multidisciplinary artist, as the featured speaker for the 2026 Henberg Environmental Lecture on Tuesday, April 21, at 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in Langroise Recital Hall. A President’s Reception and book-signing will follow, with books available for purchase through Rediscovered Books.

Odell is known for her work on the power of observation and attention in shaping our reality. Her lecture, “Deep Listening as the Beginning of Dialogue,” will explore the ways we can reclaim focus and mindfulness in a world dominated by distraction. Drawing from ecology, philosophy, and art, Odell challenges conventional ideas of productivity and efficiency, offering audiences practical strategies to slow down, reconnect with purpose, and engage more meaningfully with their surroundings.

Through her writing and talks, Odell encourages audiences to rethink how they spend their attention and recognize it as one of their most precious resources. Attendees will leave inspired to approach both daily life and larger environmental challenges with curiosity, awareness, and intentionality.

The lecture is sponsored by the Marv & Laurie Henberg Environmental Lecture Endowment and the Department of Environmental Studies, with the reception sponsored by the President’s Office. The Henberg Environmental Lecture supports the College’s mission of stewardship and community, fostering dialogue about the relationship between humans and the natural world.

Students, faculty, and community members are invited to attend this year’s lecture and experience Odell’s thought-provoking perspective on attention, ecology, and the interconnectedness of our world.

Event Details:

• Lecture: Jenny Odell – Deep Listening as the Beginning of Dialogue

• Date & Time: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | 6:00 p.m.

• Location: Langroise Recital Hall

• Reception & Book-Signing: Following lecture, books available through Rediscovered Books

This event is FREE to attend. 

For more information, contact the Department of Environmental Studies at The College of Idaho