The Fletcher Lecture Series at Hardin-Simmons University brings nationally recognized leaders to campus to explore big ideas at the intersection of business, science, faith, and public life. Designed to spark meaningful dialogue, each event connects students, faculty, and the broader West Texas community with thought leaders who shape our world.
Named for former HSU president Dr. Jesse C. Fletcher, the series honors his legacy of intellectual curiosity and faith-driven leadership. It reinforces our university’s mission to equip students with both professional insight and enduring values.
Lectures in the Fletcher Lecture Series begin at 11:30 a.m. and will be held at the Houston-Lantrip Center on Hardin-Simmons University campus, located at 2241 Pine Street. Abilene, TX 79601
For questions or to be added to the waitlist, contact Vivian Bland at:
vivian.bland@hsutx.edu or (325) 670-1167
Meet the Speakers
Derrick Duke – Sept. 8
CEO & Director, eHealth Inc.
Derrick Duke is an accomplished healthcare executive who, as Chief Executive Officer and Director, applies more than thirty years of leadership to enhance performance, strengthen financial outcomes, and guide transformative growth across complex managed care organizations.
Brad Winges – Sept. 29
President & CEO, Hilltop Securities Inc.
As President and Chief Executive Officer of Hilltop Securities Inc., Hilltop Securities Insurance Agency, and Momentum Independent Network, Mr. Winges leads the firm’s strategic direction and oversees the investment bank’s financial strength, stability, and executive leadership.
Jean Savage – Oct. 6
President & CEO, Trinity Industries, Inc.
Jean Savage is a distinguished manufacturing executive who, as Chief Executive Officer and President of Trinity Industries, contributes extensive engineering and enterprise leadership, broad board and advisory engagement, and a proven ability to advance innovation and performance across global industrial organizations.
David Auld – Oct. 27
CEO, D.R. Horton
David V. Auld is a seasoned homebuilding executive who, as Chief Operating Officer of D.R. Horton, draws on substantial leadership tenure and deep enterprise expertise to oversee nationwide homebuilding activity and accelerate strategic growth for America’s largest homebuilder.
David Miller – Nov. 3
Co-Founder & Managing Partner, EnCap Investment L.P.
David B. Miller is a highly accomplished energy industry leader and founder of EnCap Investments, recognized for a long track record in executive leadership, sharp strategic perspective, and broad industry influence, complemented by significant board service, national advisory roles, and a strong record of philanthropic impact.
Cris Daskevich – Nov. 17
CEO, CHRISTUS Children’s
Ms. Daskevich is a distinguished healthcare executive who, as Chief Executive Officer of CHRISTUS Children’s and Senior Vice President of Maternal Services for CHRISTUS Health, brings decades of leadership experience driving operational excellence, advancing pediatric and high-risk maternal care, and contributing nationally through influential governance roles, industry recognition, and strategic advocacy.
Spring 2026
Justice (Ret.) Craig Enoch: A respected leader in law and governance, Justice (Ret.) Craig Enoch draws on decades of judicial service to help businesses navigate complex legal and regulatory landscapes. His experience as a Texas Supreme Court justice and legal strategist offers a unique lens on leadership and civic impact. Watch Lecture
Stephen Curry: A visionary in banking and finance, Stephen Curry has spent over 30 years guiding top institutions through transformation and growth. As the founder and chairman of Endurance Advisory Partners and a seasoned CEO, he offers powerful insights on strategic leadership, innovation, and navigating change. Watch Lecture
Beth Garvey: A trailblazer in the talent solutions industry, Beth Garvey has led global workforce innovation for over 27 years. Known for her bold leadership and transformational vision, she champions workforce development, education, and community impact. Watch Lecture
Kelcy Warren: A pioneer in the energy industry, Kelcy Warren has spent more than four decades driving innovation and growth. As co-founder and executive chairman of Energy Transfer, he has built one of the country’s largest and most dynamic energy companies. Watch Lecture
Fall 2025
Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale: Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and man of faith. From launching Gallery Furniture with $5,000 to building a multimillion-dollar brand, Mack is known for bold bets, bigger generosity, and servant leadership. His story will inspire you to lead with purpose, live your faith, and give back. Watch Lecture
Dowell Stackpole: Co-founder of Texas Quantitative and Cyber Forward, Stackpole is a visionary in the fields of data science and cybersecurity. His work focuses on empowering the next generation of tech leaders in Texas through training, workforce development, and innovative solutions that support both private enterprise and public infrastructure. Watch Lecture
Mayor Jeff Williams: A civil engineer and public servant, Williams served three terms as mayor of Arlington and currently serves as president and CEO of Graham Associates, a planning and engineering firm. He is known for integrating faith, ethics, and collaboration into both civic leadership and business strategy. Watch Lecture
Mark Lovvorn: Texas Chairman Emeritus of Great Plains National Bank and former Chairman and CEO of Providence Bancshares Corporation, Mark Lovvorn is a seasoned financial leader with nearly five decades in community banking. He brings expertise in entrepreneurship, bank leadership, and mergers, alongside a commitment to ethical, faith-driven business practices and Christian ministry. Watch Lecture
Perry Sook: Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Nexstar Media Group, Perry Sook is a trailblazer in broadcasting and digital media. Since launching Nexstar in 1996, he has built it into the world’s leading local marketing and content company, leveraging localism to deliver value to consumers and advertisers across traditional, digital, and mobile platforms. Watch Lecture
Sponsors
Condley and Company, LLP & Browning Law Firm, PLLC
In partnership with the Abilene Chamber of Commerce.
