01/26/2026

Dear Campus Community,

I am pleased to announce that on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, Grace Youn ’13 will deliver the Spring 2026 Susan Resneck Pierce Lecture in Public Affairs and the Arts. Youn is a Los Angeles–based multi-instrumentalist, arranger, producer, and songwriter whose remarkable career bridges classical music, rock, pop, and beyond. In her lecture, “The Art of Not Knowing Yet,” Youn will explore how rigorous training builds extraordinary skill while cultures of excellence can sometimes stifle curiosity. Through live musical performance and personal storytelling, she will examine the power of embracing uncertainty and how learning to follow what pulls you can open new creative paths — both onstage and in life.

A Tacoma native, Youn earned her Bachelor of Music in Performance from Puget Sound, later completing an Artist Diploma and Master of Music degree from the University of Texas at Austin. Her recent work involves touring internationally as a multi-instrumentalist on Hozier's 2025 world tour, performing in major arenas, and headlining festivals worldwide.

You are invited to join us for what promises to be an inspiring evening of reflection, music, and conversation.

Susan Resneck Pierce Lecture
An Evening with Grace Youn ’13
“The Art of Not Knowing Yet”
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026 | 7 p.m.
Schneebeck Concert Hall

In addition to the lecture, Youn will be offering two master classes for our students and the community. To learn more or to reserve your spot for the Pierce Lecture, please visit ups.universitytickets.com. Tickets can also be picked up at the Logger Store in the Wheelock Student Center. Entry is free, but tickets are required.

Established in 2002 to honor President Emerita Susan Resneck Pierce, this lecture series brings prominent intellectuals, writers, and artists in public affairs and the arts to Puget Sound. This semester’s program reflects our ongoing commitment to exploring creativity, interdisciplinary learning, and the evolving nature of artistic expression.

I would like to thank the faculty and staff who helped bring Youn to campus, and I encourage everyone to take part in this unique opportunity to learn from a visionary artist and alumna.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Sincerely,

Isiaah Crawford, Ph.D. | President