When they moved to Greensboro 10 years ago, Maria and Tim Hanlin (above) heard about the unique speakers the Guilford College Bryan Series attracted – and the conversations those speakers ignited in the community.

“We wanted to be a part of that,” says Maria. “I love being exposed to new ideas and that’s what the Bryan Series does for me.”

The Hanlins have attended the Bryan Series on and off for years, but never fully committed to a season membership because of their busy lives. That changes Friday.

On May 19, the Hanlins are subscribing to the full Bryan Series season, and Maria can’t wait. “Even the speakers I don’t know I’m excited about because those are the ones who might open me up to new ideas,” she says.

New subscriptions go on sale beginning May 19 at 10 am at www.guilford.edu/bryanseries and at the Tanger Center Box Office. Subscriptions may be purchased at the Tanger Center Box Office during regular business hours (Tuesday-Saturday, 12-5 pm).

Starting in September and concluding in April, five Bryan Series programs will be presented on the theme of "Heroes in our Midst":

Sept. 14 – "Miracle on the Hudson" pilot Sully Sullenberger

Oct. 12 – Innovative movie maker Walter Parkes

Nov. 9 – Pulitzer-winning photographer Lynsey Addario  

Feb. 8 – Former NASA administrator and Shuttle commander Charles Bolden

April 9 – Trailblazing broadcast journalist Judy Woodruff

Subscriptions for admission to all five events range from $250 to $350. Memberships in the Legacy Society, which include special benefits such as premium seating, pre-event receptions and photos with the speakers, are available for $900 per person.

More than 1,000 patrons renewed their subscriptions and memberships for the series' 19th subscription season.

Guilford has presented major speakers for nearly 30 years in what has been known as the Bryan Series since 2002. The subscription era began in the fall of 2005.