ANN ARBOR—Lawrence W. Levine, MacArthur Award-winning historian and author of “The Opening of the American Mind: Canons, Culture and History,” will speak “On the Search for American Identity” at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 in the Rackham Auditorium at the University of Michigan.

Levine’s lecture, which is free and open to the public, will inaugurate a year-long series of “conversations” on American values sponsored by the Horace H. Rackham School of Graduate Studies.

“One of the country’s premier historians of American cultural history, Prof. Levine has thought deeply about issues relating to multiculturalism and diversity, and has written widely and persuasively on the subject,” says Earl Lewis, interim dean of the Rackham School of Graduate Studies. “He is an engaging figure who enjoys lively give-and-take with his audience. His presence here will enrich and inform our thinking.”

“The Opening of the American Mind” was hailed as a “book of uncommon importance—and refreshing good sense” by cultural critic Michael Berube, and “required reading for all who care about higher education in this country,” by scholar and commentator Roger Wilkins.

Levine will be a King/Chavez/Parks visiting professor while on campus and, in addition to his public lecture, will participate in a multidisciplinary seminar with U-M faculty and students on issues related to race, history, education and multiculturalism.