Past Speakers

Liz Cheney

Defending Democracy: A Conversation with Liz Cheney

Liz Cheney served as the U.S. representative for Wyoming’s at-large congressional district from 2017 to 2023. She chaired the House Republican Conference from 2019 to 2021 and served as the Vice Chair of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol. Cheney is the author of the memoir “Oath and Honor” and co-authored “Exceptional: Why the World Needs a Powerful America” with her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney.

She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Colorado College and her Juris Doctor from the University of Chicago Law School. In 2022, Cheney, along with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, received the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library’s prestigious Profile in Courage Award, with commendation for her “consistent and courageous voice in defense of democracy.”

Join Liz Cheney and moderator Mary Ann Ahern, political reporter for NBC5 Chicago, for this important conversation.

Jonathan Turley

The Indispensable Right: Free Speech in an Age of Rage

Jonathan Turley is the Shapiro Professor of public interest law at George Washington University. Professor Turley has written extensively in areas ranging from constitutional law to legal theory to tort law. He has written numerous academic articles that have appeared in a variety of leading law journals including Cornell, Duke, Georgetown, Harvard, Northwestern, University of Chicago. He is the author of The Indispensable Right: Free Speech in an Age of Rage (Simon & Schuster 2024).

Turley is currently the legal analyst for Fox News. He is a columnist for USA Today, The Hill, and other newspapers including the New York Times, Washington Post, USA Today, Los Angeles Times and Wall Street Journal. Professor Turley received his B.A. at the University of Chicago and his J.D. at Northwestern.

Photo by Ellen Sartore.

Joel Sartore

Building The Photo Ark: One Man’s Quest to Document the World’s Animals

Joel Sartore is a National Geographic Explorer and photographer as well as a noted speaker, author, teacher and conservationist. His hallmarks are his sense of humor and Midwestern work ethic.

Sartore is the founder of the National Geographic Photo Ark, a multiyear effort to document every species — big or small, common or rare — living in the world’s zoos, aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries in order to inspire people to help protect biodiversity before it’s too late. In his words, “It is folly to think that we can destroy one species and ecosystem after another and not affect humanity. When we save species, we’re actually saving ourselves.”

Photo by Mark Seliger.

Jim Gaffigan

Beyond Humor: An Afternoon with Jim Gaffigan

Jim Gaffigan, a seven-time Grammy nominated comedian and actor, is known for his unique brand of humor which largely revolves around his observations on life. Raised in Chesterton, IN, Jim grew up in a large family which often serves as inspiration for his jokes. Beyond stand-up, he’s a dedicated husband and father of five, often weaving his family’s antics into his routines.

Jim’s approachable everyman persona combined with his witty insights on daily life, has endeared him to audiences worldwide. He has released multiple successful comedy specials and authored several New York Times best-selling books. Recently, he starred alongside Jerry Seinfeld in the movie “Unfrosted,” showcasing his versatile talent in both comedy and acting.

Briana Scurry

From Gold to Grit: A Champion’s Journey through Traumatic Trials and Mental Health Triumph

Briana Scurry is a pioneering American soccer goalkeeper and one of the most accomplished players in women’s soccer history. Scurry was a key figure in the U.S. Women’s National Team, winning two Olympic gold medals (1996, 2004) and the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup. After suffering a career-ending concussion in 2010, Scurry faced a challenging mental health journey, battling depression and anxiety.

Her resilience and advocacy for concussion awareness and mental health have inspired many. Through her impact on the landscape of women’s soccer and American sports culture, Briana was selected to the United States Women’s National Team’s All-Time Best XI and was selected as the permanent Title IX Exhibit in the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Mitch Daniels

Never Park the Car: Making Change When Change Says No

Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. served as a two-term governor of the state of Indiana and as the 12th president of Purdue University. His political background brought a unique perspective to the realm of academia. During his tenure, Daniels prioritized affordability, innovation, and student success.

Daniels championed online education and technological advancements, expanding Purdue’s global reach and accessibility. Known for his pragmatic leadership style and commitment to fiscal responsibility, he left a lasting impact on the university, fostering a culture of excellence and entrepreneurship.

Jennifer Griffin & Benjamin Hall

Protecting Journalists and Journalism in Today’s World

Jennifer Griffin is an accomplished journalist and a prominent figure in the world of broadcast news. As a national security correspondent for Fox News, she brings extensive expertise and deep insights into international and military affairs.

Benjamin Hall is a seasoned journalist who has covered numerous high-profile stories, providing in-depth analysis and firsthand accounts from war zones and areas of political unrest. In March 2022, he sustained serious injuries while on the front lines in Ukraine.

Griffin and Hall share a connection through the dangers they have faced in their careers. After Hall was injured, Griffin worked collaboratively to coordinate and facilitate Hall’s evacuation from a war zone. Their firsthand experiences and unwavering determination exemplify the sacrifices made by journalists around the world and highlight their shared commitment in bringing truth to light through journalism and the pursuit of objective reporting.

Bruce D. Perry, M.D., Ph.D.

What Happened to You? A Conversation on Trauma, Resilience and Healing

Dr. Bruce D. Perry is the Principal of the Neurosequential Network, a Professor (Adjunct) in the Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University in Chicago and the School of Allied Health, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria Australia.

Over the last thirty years, Dr. Perry has been an active teacher, clinician and researcher in children’s mental health and the neurosciences holding a variety of academic positions. His work on the impact of abuse, neglect and trauma on the developing brain has impacted clinical practice, programs, and policy across the world. Dr. Perry is the author of several books. His most recent book, “What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing,” co-authored with Oprah Winfrey, was released in 2021.

“What Happened to You?” was Purdue Northwest’s “One Book, One University” selection for the 23/24 academic year.

Peter Zeihan

The End of the World…And Other Opportunities

Peter Zeihan is a renowned geopolitical strategist and author known for his astute analysis of global affairs. With expertise in demography, energy, and security, Zeihan offers unique insights into the future of nations and the global landscape.

Through his captivating speaking engagements and best-selling books like “The Accidental Superpower” and “ The End of the World is Just the Beginning: Mapping the Collapse of Globalization,” he presents a compelling narrative on the impact of geography and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Zeihan’s concise and thought-provoking assessments have earned him recognition as a trusted voice in the field, enabling individuals and organizations to navigate an ever-changing world with clarity and foresight.

Anthony Ray Hinton

The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row

Anthony Ray Hinton survived for 30 years on Alabama’s death row. His story is a decades-long journey to exoneration and freedom. In 1985, Mr. Hinton was convicted of the unsolved murders of two fast-food restaurant managers based on the testimony of ballistics experts for the State who claimed that the crime bullets came from a dusty revolver found in Mr. Hinton’s mother’s closet. Without the benefit of a competent expert to challenge the State’s theory, an all-white jury convicted Mr. Hinton and he was sentenced to death.

After years of petitioning to have the revolver re-analyzed, and with the assistance of the Equal Justice Initiative, led by attorney Bryan Stevenson, Mr. Hinton was freed in 2015. Since his release, Mr. Hinton has traveled the world sharing his story and discussing the changes that need to be made to prevent similar injustices from happening to other people.

David Ross

Talking Baseball with Former Chicago Cubs Manager David Ross

David Ross is an integral part of Chicago Cubs baseball lore. Ross had an illustrious career as a catcher that spanned 15 seasons in the Major Leagues. His journey culminated with the Cubs, where he played from 2015 to 2016 and helped lead the team to their historic World Series victory in 2016. Ross’s leadership, veteran presence, and exceptional defensive skills endeared him to both teammates and fans.

After retiring as a player, Ross transitioned into coaching and until recently served as the manager of the Cubs, bringing his invaluable experience to guide the team’s success. Join David Ross and moderator, Dan Plesac, an 18-year MLB Veteran and MLB Network Analyst, for an afternoon talking baseball.

credit Timothy Greenfield-Sanders

Elizabeth Gilbert

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

In her critically acclaimed memoir “Eat, Pray, Love,” and her immensely popular novels and works of nonfiction, Elizabeth Gilbert expands our understanding of creativity, spirituality, and love. Whatever her subject— her own transformative experiences, the institution of marriage, or 1940’s showgirls—Gilbert writes with “a mix of intelligence, wit, and colloquial exuberance that is close to irresistible” (The New York Times Book Review). The woman Oprah Winfrey called a “rock star author” is among her generation’s most beloved and inspiring voices, with an avid international readership and devoted following.

Adam Savage

Every Tool’s a Hammer: Life is What You Make It

One of the most beloved figures in science and technology, Adam Savage has spent most of his life gathering skills that allow him to take ideas and make them real.

Titled “Every Tool’s a Hammer: Life Is What You Make It,” Savage will share his golden rules of creativity, curiosity and problem solving. He will share insights from his MythBusters journey through 40-plus years as a maker and creator.

From finding inspiration to following through on making an idea a reality, he encourages us to push the boundaries of what’s possible and provides a toolbox of techniques to achieve personal and professional success.

Will Hurd

American Reboot: An Idealist’s Guide To Getting Big Things Done

Called “the future of the GOP” by Politico, Will Hurd is a former member of Congress, cybersecurity executive, and officer in the CIA. In this program titled: American Reboot: An Idealist’s Guide to Getting Big Things Done, Hurd will present a path forward for America grounded by what he calls pragmatic idealism—a concept forged from enduring American values. Hurd will discuss five seismic problems facing our country: the Republican Party’s failure to present a principled vision for the future; the lack of honest leadership in Washington, DC; income inequality that threatens millions of Americans; US economic and military dominance that is not guaranteed; and a look at technological changes expected into the future.

Gen. David H. Petraeus, USA (Ret.)

A Look at the Geopolitical Landscape with General Petraeus

One of the most effective military leaders in recent U.S. history, General David H. Petraeus—a highly decorated four-star general, whose distinguished military career spanned over 37 years and culminated in six straight commands (five of which were in combat)—addresses the most significant global challenges facing us today, including ongoing international security issues, macroeconomic trends and the tasks of strategic leadership in the 21st century.

Rachel Barton Pine

An Afternoon with Rachel Barton Pine

Violinist Rachel Barton Pine thrills audiences worldwide with her dazzling technique, lustrous tone, and landmark interpretations. She solos with leading orchestras–including the Chicago and Vienna Symphonies, and the Philadelphia Orchestra –and has performed on The Today Show, CBS Sunday Morning, and NPR’s Tiny Desk. Her 40 albums include the 25th anniversary re-release of Violin Concertos by Black Composers Through the Centuries (Cedille).

Her Rachel Barton Pine Foundation assists young artists and, since 2001, has run the Music by Black Composers project. She performs on the 1742 “ex-Soldat” Joseph Guarnerius del Gesu, on lifetime loan from her patron.

Deborah Birx, MD

Deborah Birx, MD is a world-renowned medical expert and leader whose long career has focused on clinical and basic immunology, infectious disease, pandemic preparedness, vaccine research, and global health. Her career began with serving the United States as a colonel in the Army, and later turned into running some of the most high-profile and influential programs at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and U.S. Department of State.

Most recently, Dr. Birx served as the White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator where she used complex data integration to drive decision making, providing recommendations to Vice President Michael Pence and working closely with state officials across the country to provide state-specific advice and guidance.

Stephen D. Smith and Heather Maio-Smith

USC Shoah Foundation’s Dimensions in Testimony enables people long into the future to converse with pre-recorded video interviews with Holocaust survivors. The pioneering project integrates advanced filming techniques, specialized display technologies and next generation natural language processing.

Dr. Stephen D. Smith, the Finci -Viterbi Executive Director of USC Shoah Foundation, and Heather Maio-Smith, CEO of StoryFile and the concept creator and producer of New Dimensions in Testimony, shared more about this interactive archive. The program featured the premiere of the interactive biography of Holocaust survivor, Max Eisen, who has shared his story of courage and survival at Auschwitz to warn of the dangers of hatred and discrimination.

Bryan Stevenson

Bryan Stevenson is the founder and executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative, a human rights organization in Montgomery, Alabama. Under his leadership, EJI has won major legal challenges eliminating excessive and unfair sentencing, exonerating innocent death row prisoners, confronting abuse of the incarcerated and the mentally ill, and aiding children prosecuted as adults.

Stevenson has initiated major new anti-poverty and anti-discrimination efforts that challenge inequality in America. He led the creation of two highly acclaimed cultural sites which opened in 2018: the Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. These new national landmark institutions chronicle the legacy of slavery, lynching, and racial segregation, and the connection to mass incarceration and contemporary issues of racial bias. Mr. Stevenson is also a professor of law at the New York University School of Law.

Steve ‘The Woz’ Wozniak

A Silicon Valley icon and philanthropist for more than thirty years, Steve Wozniak has helped shape the computing industry with his design of Apple’s first line of products the Apple I and II. In 1976, Wozniak and Steve Jobs founded Apple Computer Inc. The Apple II was integral in launching the personal computer industry.

For his achievements at Apple, Wozniak was awarded the National Medal of Technology by the President of the United States in 1985, the highest honor bestowed on America’s leading innovators. In December 2020 Wozniak launched his company Efforce, which aims to use cryptocurrency and blockchain technology to make it cheaper and easier for companies to fund green projects.

Paul Nicklen

Paul Nicklen is a Canadian photographer, filmmaker, and marine biologist who has documented the beauty and the plight of our planet for over twenty years. In addition to being one of the world’s most acclaimed nature photographers, Nicklen is a sought-after speaker, a TED Talks legend, an author, and National Geographic Fellow. In the past two decades, Paul has collaborated with scientists, filmmakers, conservationists, and explorers to create awareness and inspire action for global issues like climate change. As an assignment photographer for National Geographic magazine, Nicklen captures the imagination of a global audience.

Jonathan Rauch

Join the Sinai Forum at Purdue University Northwest for a free virtual event, “On Free Speech and Cancel Culture with Jonathan Rauch.”

Jonathan Rauch is a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution in Washington and is the author of seven books and many articles on public policy, culture, and government. He is a contributing writer for The Atlantic and recipient of the 2005 National Magazine Award, the magazine industry’s equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize. Rauch, who is currently working on a book tentatively titled The Constitution of Knowledge will join us to discuss the idea of cancel culture and the “unending battle” for free speech.

Anthony Rizzo

Join the Sinai Forum at Purdue University Northwest for a free virtual event, “Talking Baseball with Anthony Rizzo, Chicago Cubs First Baseman.”

Anthony Rizzo, first baseman for the Chicago Cubs, is a three-time National League All-Star and three-time National League Gold Glove Award winner. In 2016, he led the Cubs to their first World Series Championship in 108 years. Rizzo was named the recipient of the 2017 Roberto Clemente Award, annually given to the player who best represents the game of baseball through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy, and positive contributions, both on and off the field.

Rizzo, overcame Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2008 and established The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation in 2012 to support pediatric cancer patients and their families. Anthony Rizzo is considered by many to be one of the most respected players in Major League Baseball.

With interviewer Dan Plesac, a Crown Point native, 18-year Major League Baseball veteran and MLB Network analyst.

*Virtual season shortened due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Alan Dershowitz

Professor Alan M. Dershowitz is a Brooklyn native who has been called “the nation’s most peripatetic civil liberties lawyer” and one of its “most distinguished defenders of individual rights.” A prominent scholar on US Constitutional and criminal law, Dershowitz has also been called the “winningest” criminal lawyer in modern history, and has argued hundreds of appeals in courts throughout the nation.

As a speaker, he challenges audiences with his thought-provoking perspectives on today’s foremost social, legal and ethical issues. Dershowitz joined the Harvard Law School faculty at age 25 – the youngest in the school’s history – and became an emeritus professor after 50 years of teaching.

Captain “Sully” Sullenberger, III

One of the most captivating American heroes of our time, and now an ardent advocate for the safety of everyone who flies, Captain “Sully” Sullenberger’s preparation and leadership enabled him to safely guide US Airways Flight 1549 to an emergency water landing in New York City’s frigid Hudson River – an inspirational and iconic moment in modern history. His incredible personal story is captured in Sully, a major motion picture directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Tom Hanks as Captain Sullenberger. Captain Sullenberger will share his lifetime of experience which prepared him to handle the unprecedented crisis presented by the “Miracle on the Hudson.”

Gloria Steinem

Gloria Steinem remains an iconic and inspiring voice, and one of the most visible symbols of the women’s movement. Steinem is a writer, lecturer, political activist and feminist organizer. She travels in the US and other countries as an organizer and lecturer and is a frequent media spokeswoman on issues of equality.

Steinem produces and hosts “WOMAN with Gloria Steinem,” a TV series on VICELAND that explores human rights and violence against women around the world. Her next book “THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE, BUT FIRST IT WILL PISS YOU OFF,” is out October 29, 2019.

General John F. Kelly, U.S. Marine Corps (RET)

In a world where dictators are falling and rising, governments posture for a greater impact on the global stage, and information is the critical currency, who will emerge and where will opportunities exist? A 4-Star General, US Secretary of Homeland Security and former White House Chief of Staff, few people are as qualified as General Kelly to provide firsthand insight into the evolving geopolitical landscape around the world. From the UN to the Pentagon, from the South China Sea to Washington, DC, General Kelly discusses the trends, risks and potential rewards amid the hot spots around the globe.

Liz Murray

Liz Murray’s life is a triumph over adversity and a stunning example of the importance of dreaming big. Murray was raised in the Bronx by two loving but drug-addicted parents. She grew up in poverty, often without enough food, chronically absent from school and most of all, struggling to connect her education to a viable future. By age 15, Murray’s mom had died and she was homeless.

Determined to take charge of her life, Murray finished high school in just two years and was awarded a full scholarship to Harvard University, all while camping out in New York City parks and subway stations. Today, Murray is a passionate advocate for underserved youth. She is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of The Arthur Project, a mentoring program that works intensively with at-risk youth.

James Comey

James Comey led the Federal Bureau of Investigation from 2013 to 2017, appointed to the post by President Barack Obama. His tenure was tested by new forces within and outside America’s borders. When Donald Trump fired Comey on May 9, 2017, it ignited a political firestorm. In his talk, “The Ethical Leader,” Comey will provide a rare respite from partisan politics. Comey’s story is one of great leadership, misguided leadership, patriotism and the vital importance of shaping a culture that puts the truth first.

Platon

Platon is an internationally known photographer whose portraits capture the personalities behind the public faces of the world’s most powerful decision makers. Shooting portraits for a range of international publications including Rolling Stone, The New York Times magazine, Vanity Fair, Esquire and GQ, Platon developed a special relationship with TIME magazine, producing over 20 covers for them. In 2007, he photographed Russian Premier Vladimir Putin for TIME magazine’s “Person of the Year” cover. This image was awarded 1st prize at the World Press Photo Contest. Platon is a communicator and storyteller. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums both domestically and abroad.

Reshma Saujani

Reshma Saujani is the founder and CEO of Girls Who Code, a national non-profit organization working to close the gender gap in technology. Through its summer immersion programs and clubs, Girls Who Code is leading the movement to inspire, educate, and equip young women with the computing skills to pursue 21st century opportunities. Saujani’s TED talk, “Teach girls bravery, not perfection,” has more than 3 million views and sparked a national conversation about how we’re raising our girls. Saujani is a graduate of the University of Illinois, Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, and Yale Law School.

Robert Costa

Robert Costa is a national political reporter for The Washington Post, where he covers the White House, Congress and campaigns. He is also the moderator of PBS’ Washington Week, an award-winning news discussion program, and a political analyst for NBC News and MSNBC. Costa is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and holds a master’s degree in politics from the University of Cambridge.

Lou Holtz

For many years, Lou Holtz has been considered among the greatest speaking legends in America today. He speaks on overcoming seemingly impossible challenges by setting goals and working to achieve them. Holtz established himself as one of the most successful college football coaches of all time. Twenty-six seasons as a collegiate head coach earned Holtz a sterling reputation for turning pretenders into contenders. He is known for taking football programs and elevating them to the top 20; but nowhere has he done this as impressively than at the University of Notre Dame.