A dialogue series in the Pathways Program, sponsored by The Office for General Education
What Is the Big Question?
How can you make the world a better place?
The Big Question is a new campus conversation series that brings nationally recognized and community leaders to UA to talk—plainly and personally—about how they’ve worked to improve the world around them. Each event centers on one big question, with stories, lessons learned, and practical advice students can use right now. This series is inspired by the General Education Pathways Program at the University of Alabama, where students can focus their core curriculum courses on a specific theme. These Pathways are, at their foundation, designed to help students become citizens and leaders of the world who are willing to engage with the hard questions that define our world.
A New, Student-Focused Format
A mix between an interview and a podcast, come for an off-script conversation between one of Alabama’s most renowned scholars and a special guest who has devoted their life to making the world a better place. This talk is candid and down-to-earth, followed by open an dialogue with students. Come curious—leave with ideas, next steps, and a sense of hope.
Featured Guests
Fall 2025
Dr. Catherine Randall | Executive Systems Pathway
September 30, 2025, 6:00-7:30 PM
Pettus & Catherine Randall Welcome Center Theatre
See the Crimson White story on this event
We welcome Dr. Catherine Randall —one of Alabama’s most respected leaders in education and community service. A longtime champion for students and a driving force behind numerous initiatives at UA and across the state, Dr. Randall exemplifies compassionate leadership in practice.
Spring 2026
John McCollum
Time, Date, and Location TBD
John McCollum is the co-founder and Executive Director of Asia’s Hope, overseeing strategy, partnerships, and field operations that provide family-style care for orphaned and vulnerable children in Cambodia, Thailand, and India. He works with national leaders to expand long-term homes and education.
Sponsored by:
