Award-winning actor, comedian and The New York Times bestselling author Rainn Wilson is coming to Missouri State University this fall.

He will be the Public Affairs Conference 2026 keynote speaker. The presentation will take place at 7 p.m. Sept. 29 at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts.

The keynote event kicks off the conference, scheduled Sept. 29-Oct. 1. The theme is “The We Factor: Building Connections That Matter.”

As one of the co-founders of media company SoulPancake, Wilson has spent years exploring how people seek connection, hope, truth, identity and purpose. He and the SoulPancake team oversaw the creation of a decade-plus of award-winning content spanning digital, television, branded and live engagements, until its acquisition by Participant Media in 2016.

In the years since, Wilson has continued the spirit of SoulPancake’s mission. He encourages audiences to dig deep into life’s biggest questions — from philosophy and creativity to spirituality, love, truth, science, mental health and more — with humor and honesty.

“As our conference keynote this year, Rainn will offer a thoughtful and engaging perspective on the role community plays in helping people find connection and meaning,” said Brent Dunn, Missouri State University Foundation president and CEO.

The keynote is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required. The event is made possible by the Missouri State Foundation with support from KY3.

Opportunity to meet Wilson

Before his talk, the foundation will host a VIP experience with Wilson at 5 p.m. at The Old Glass Place.

This special pre-event experience includes:

• A photo opportunity with Wilson
• An autographed copy of Wilson’s latest book, “Soul Boom: Why We Need a Spiritual Revolution”
• Cocktails, beverages and hors d’oeuvres
• Reserved seating at the keynote presentation

Tickets are $150 per person and are available for purchase online or by calling 417-836-5138.

Contact Stephanie Smith, executive director of university advancement relations, at the above number for more information.

More about Wilson

Wilson is an Emmy-nominated and SAG award-winning actor best known for playing the inimitable “Dwight Schrute” for nine seasons on NBC’s “The Office.” He recently wrapped “Lessons in Chemistry” with Brie Larson for Apple TV+ and the unscripted travel series “Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss,” which aired on Peacock in May 2023.

A Master of Fine Arts graduate from New York University Tisch School of the Arts, his screen credits include: “Jerry & Marge Go Large,” “Utopia,” “Blackbird,” “The Meg,” “Star Trek: Discovery,” “Hesher,” “Super,” “Cooties,” “Juno,” “Galaxy Quest” and “Almost Famous.”

Wilson spent a decade in New York theater before moving to Los Angeles. His stage work includes Broadway productions of “The Tempest” and “London Assurance,” as well as acclaimed performances in “Thom Pain (Based on Nothing)” and “The Doppelganger.”

Besides his latest book, he has also authored “The Bassoon King” and “SoulPancake: Chew on Life’s Big Questions.”