The Iowa State Lectures Series is a collaborative effort between the Student Government and the Office of the Provost. The Lecture Series brings to campus a broad spectrum of talks; political debates; academic forums; and cultural events, including musical performances, art and dance programs, and films.

The lectures consist of over 3,000 audiovisual recordings in a multitude of formats dating back to 1958. Since 1966, ISU has hosted annual series devoted to national affairs and world affairs. Notable speakers include: Martin Luther King, Jr., Andy Warhol, Arthur Miller, Maya Angelou, Julian Bond, Cesar Chavez, Angela Davis, Judy Chicago, Sally Ride, Nikki Giovanni, Howard Zinn, Barack Obama, Gloria Steinem, Roxanne Gay, and many others.