OCTOBER 5, 2026 – Speaker: Denise Kiernan
Chrisman Family Foundation Speaker
Obstinate Daughters: Modern Day Inspiration from the Women of the American Revolution
Chair: Jane Hamilton | Subject: 250th Anniversary of the USA
Denise Kiernan’s Obstinate Daughters rescues from obscurity the women whose labor, courage and cunning sustained the fight for liberty. From battlefields and spy networks to printing presses, pulpits and farms, these unsung heroines organized, published, preached and fought, turning the tide of revolution both at the front and on the home front. Kiernan masterfully weaves individual lives into a single, compelling narrative, carving a lasting place in history for these impactful figures. Written with journalistic rigor and narrative flair, she challenges conventional histories and invites readers to reconsider who made the American experiment possible. Kiernan, an acclaimed journalist and author of New York Times bestsellers The Girls of Atomic City and The Last Castle, brings the same meticulous research and vivid storytelling to this restorative work. Her wide-ranging career in print and broadcast, and her knack for illuminating overlooked stories, make her uniquely suited to bring these obstinate daughters to light.
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OCTOBER 12, 2026 – Speaker: Colin Woodard
Nations Apart: Rediscovering a Common Identity and Bridging Cultural Divides
Chair: Christy Coleman, Honorary Member | Subject: Culture
Colin Woodard’s groundbreaking book, Nations Apart, is original research that could become an essential guide to understanding why Americans are so politically polarized. Woodard defines and links early settlement patterns and regional cultural legacies to what he sees as economic inequality, public-health crisis and the erosion of democratic norms. Far from a lost-cause diagnosis, Woodard offers a roadmap for a unifying civic narrative that is anchored in the Declaration of Independence. Combining vivid storytelling with scholarly rigor, Woodard links practical pathways to bridge the geographic and cultural rifts that fragment the nation. An award-winning historian, journalist and director of the Nationhood Lab, he brings his reporting skills, international perspective and policy expertise to enlighten how American self-government might survive and thrive.
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OCTOBER 19, 2026 – Speaker: John Martin
The Human Advantage in an AI Era
Chair: Judy Pahren | Subject: AI/Future
John W. Martin is a futurist, award-winning author and the president and CEO of RVA757 Connects. When he is not advancing the Richmond-Hampton Roads megaregion, he’s leading SIR, a Richmond-based strategic consultancy. Martin asserts that the future will not belong to AI—it will belong to those who stay human and lean into virtues only humans possess. Join him as he examines the three stages of AI and the seven human rules that matter even more as AI accelerates. Martin will update us on what we need to know as smart consumers of AI, and what AI’s acceleration means for Virginia’s economy. AI can imagine infinite possibilities, but only humans can choose direction, consider risks, take actions and build results.
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OCTOBER 26, 2026 – Speaker: Laurie Gwen Shapiro
The Aviator and the Showman: Amelia Earhart, George Putnam, and the Marriage that Made an American Icon
Chair: Anna Powers | Subject: History
Laurie Gwen Shapiro is an award-winning documentary filmmaker and journalist whose writing has appeared in The New Yorker, The Atlantic, The New York Times and more. She is the author of The Aviator and the Showman: Amelia Earhart, George Putnam, and the Marriage that Made an American Icon, named one of the best books of the year by NPR, Amazon, The New Yorker and others. Shapiro will explore the complex, decade-long marriage between Amelia Earhart and publisher George Putnam, arguing that their partnership was crucial to Earhart’s fame, but also pushed her toward dangerous stunts, potentially influencing her final flight.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2026 – Speaker: Deondra Rose
The Future of Higher Education
Chair: Betty Crutcher | Subject: Higher Education
Deondra Rose is professor of public policy, political science and history at Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy. Her research focuses on U.S. higher education policy, political behavior and the politics of identity in relation to gender, race and socioeconomic status. We welcome Rose back to TWC to discuss all things higher education: declining public trust, the future of higher education and how colleges and universities can prepare for the future to effectively pursue their mission and what role they play in a democratic society.
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NOVEMBER 9, 2026 – Speaker: Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, M.D., Ph.D.
Food is Medicine
Chair: Pat Hackler | Subject: Health/Medicine
Dariush Mozaffarian, M.D., Ph.D., is a cardiologist, public health scientist and director of the Food is Medicine Institute at Tufts University. Dr. Mozaffarian’s overall goal is to create the science and translation for a food system that is nutritious, equitable and sustainable. He is a globally renowned expert in food as medicine, and has authored more than 600 scientific publications on nutritional priorities for cardiometabolic health. This includes evidence-based policy approaches and innovations to advance nutrition security, reduce diet-related diseases, improve health equity and reduce healthcare costs in the U.S. and globally. In his newest book, Food is Medicine, Mozaffarian aims to show how harnessing the power of the right foods can not only prevent illness, but can also extend life by treating illness and reduce the crippling cost of ill health to our communities and economy. He draws on cutting-edge research to turn complex science into a clear, actionable program to end the health crisis in our homes and communities.
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NOVEMBER 16, 2026 – Speaker: Ginger Ambler, Ph.D. and Roxane Hickey, Ph.D.
Engaging Across Difference through Better Argument
Chair: Jan Nelson | Subject: Communication/Culture
As we celebrate the 250th birthday of our country, the future of our republic depends on active citizens who understand the ideals that undergird a healthy democratic society and who practice the skills of democracy. Join William & Mary’s Democracy Initiative co-chairs, Ginger Ambler and Roxane Adler Hickey, for an engaging program based on the Aspen Institute’s Better Arguments framework. Through story and conversation, they will explore the core principles of a better argument: taking winning off the table, prioritizing relationships and listening passionately, embracing vulnerability, paying attention to context, and making room to transform. Together they will explore healthy strategies for responding to conflict and disagreement, leaving members with fresh insights for enhancing communication and strengthening relationships.
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NOVEMBER 23, 2026 – Speaker: Frances Z. Brown, Ph.D.
Geopolitical Competition in Africa
Chair: Priscilla Cash | Subject: International Affairs
Africa is central to U.S. interests, hosting 12 of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies, vast critical mineral reserves, and a rapidly expanding population; by 2050 one in four people on earth will be African. Historically, Africa policy has been one of the few bipartisan consensus areas on Capitol Hill. Today, however, the United States is far from the continent’s predominant external actor, as major powers (notably China and Russia) and ambitious middle powers (including Türkiye, the UAE, India, Japan) compete for influence through infrastructure development, investment, security partnerships and diplomatic engagement. Frances Z. Brown will explain this evolving geopolitical competition in Africa and its implications for U.S. strategy. Brown is Vice President for Studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, previously served on the White House National Security Council and held roles at USAID and the Defense Department.
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NOVEMBER 30, 2026 – Speaker: Kristen Cavallo
Why Design Matters More than Most People Think
Chair: Amie Rennolds | Subject: Business/Design
The CEO of Martin (formerly the Martin Agency) and artistic director of The Branch Museum of Design, Virginia Business Person of the Year (2023) and former CEO of MullenLowe Global, Kristen Cavallo is a global leader in branding and advertising. She will share her story of a career spanning more than 30 years, shaped by a belief in the power of creativity. From advertising to design, Cavallo built her career by embracing change, even when it meant stepping into something unfamiliar. She will discuss the turns along the way and what those moments taught her. She will also share how The Branch Museum of Design is thriving as Virginia’s only design museum, and why design matters more than most people think.
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JANUARY 11, 2027 – Speaker: Patrick Radden Keefe
The Power of Narrative
Chair: TBD | Subject: Journalism/Writing
Patrick Radden Keefe is an award-winning staff writer at The New Yorker and author of the New York Times bestselling books Rogues, Empire of Pain and the forthcoming London Falling. He is also executive producer of the Bafta and Emmy nominated FX dramatic series Say Nothing, based on his book of the same name, which received a Peabody Award. Say Nothing also received the National Book Critics Circle Award for Nonfiction, as well as the Orwell Prize for Political Writing, and was selected by The New York Times as one of the “20 Best Books of the 21st Century.” Through his books, Keefe will discuss how using the power of narrative transforms complex, often overlooked investigative reporting into compelling, human-centric stories. He blends meticulous research with narrative flair, illuminating the mechanisms of power, crime and corruption, making intricate, systemic issues emotionally accessible and engaging.
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JANUARY 25, 2027 – Speaker: Debbie Linn
The Three-Legged Stool: An Introduction to Art Conservation
Chair: Suzanne Hall | Subject: Art Conservation
Debbie Linn has over 30 years of experience in the museum and cultural heritage sector as a leader, project manager, educator and passionate advocate for collections care and heritage preservation. Often compared to a three-legged stool, the field of art conservation is a unique combination of art, science and history. Linn will present an overview of the field and show how these three areas combine to preserve art and material culture. From ancient to contemporary civilizations, conservators endeavor to save the tangible objects of human activity so that future generations can continue to learn and tell new stories from the past.
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FEBRUARY 1, 2027 – Speaker: Marisa Kashino
The Path to a Bestselling Novel – and a New Career
Chair: Nita Enoch | Subject: Novel Writing
Longtime journalist Marisa Kashino never dreamed of becoming an author, but then she had the idea for the thriller Best Offer Wins. In less than a year, she wrote the manuscript, landed a two-book deal and sold the rights to Hulu for a TV adaptation starring Greta Lee. Today, Best Offer Wins is a Good Morning America Book Club Pick and national bestseller, and Kashino is now a full-time author. She will unveil how she turned her weekend passion project into a new career.
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FEBRUARY 8, 2027 – Speaker: Brian Palmer
Witnessing and Recovering History
Chair: Cheryl Magazine | Subject: Photojournalism
Brian Palmer has photographed, reported and written about conflict, politics, activism and daily life around the world for nearly 40 years. His recent work focuses on East End and Evergreen cemeteries, two historic African American burial grounds in greater Richmond, his hometown. At first glance, the project appears hyperlocal, but it has broader implications for how Americans understand local and national history. Palmer sees this body of work as his contribution to an evolving history of Richmond—and the U.S.—that is more honest and inclusive. He will share largely untold and nearly erased stories of the people laid to rest there and the community they built. Now the Memorialization Public Historian at James Madison’s Montpelier, he is part of the team that is documenting and memorializing the people who were enslaved there. Listen to his passion, and compassion, for the stories he recounts through award-winning words and photographs.
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FEBRUARY 15, 2027 – Speaker: Tyler Silvestro, ASLA PLA
Landscape Design for the Public Good
Chair: Rich Conti, Honorary Member | Subject: Landscape/Environment
Tyler Silvestro, Registered Landscape Architect and Partner at Marvel Architects, will share his experience on how thoughtful landscape design can shape civic life and cultural memory. Drawing on collaborations with cities, community advocates and institutions, he will illuminate the hidden narratives and future potential embedded in shared environments. His work, ranging from intimate public plazas to expansive urban master plans, addresses urgent challenges such as coastal resiliency, ecological urbanism, and inclusive community building. With projects like the Union Square Partnership Visioning in New York City, El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico and innovative campus and housing landscapes, Silvestro brings both strategic vision and practical insight to his work. In Richmond, he will highlight transformative local projects such as Mayo Island, Belle Isle and the Science Museum’s East Green expansion, inviting members to consider how design can elevate the public good.
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FEBRUARY 22, 2027 – Speaker: Ralph Nurnberger, Ph.D.
Hamilton: Is it Historically Accurate?
Chair: Jenn Cornell | Subject: History
Does the Electoral College work correctly? Do newspapers publish “fake news”? Are politicians having affairs and trying to cover them up? Ralph Nurnberger will discuss all this and more, but only in the context of the 18th century. An acclaimed speaker who brings humor, historical background and current political insights to his presentations, Nurnberger will discuss the historical accuracy of the beloved and award-winning musical, Hamilton: political rivalries and jealousies, the meaning of the Constitution and the issues of tariffs, immigration and race relations. He earned his Ph.D. in history from Georgetown University and subsequently taught as an adjunct professor at Georgetown for 38 years. He has lectured on a number of Smithsonian Journeys and presented at the Smithsonian Associates program in Washington, D.C., where his presentations frequently sell out.
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MARCH 1, 2027 – Speaker: Retired Col. Stephen T. Ganyard, USMC
The New World Order
Chair: Donna Colan | Subject: International Affairs
Global affairs are constantly changing. What are the current pressing issues and what are their implications? Who is up, who is down? Where are the concerning trends and why? Where are the positive trends and why? Colonel Stephen T. Ganyard, retired, is uniquely qualified to explore these questions, whether from an economic, diplomatic, military or social perspective. In his role as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Plans, Programs and Operations in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs with the U.S. Department of State, he was responsible for international planning, policy and analysis. A decorated combat veteran, he has also served for more than 12 years as an on-air contributor for ABC News.
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MARCH 8, 2027 – Speaker: Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky
In Search of Love and Happiness
Chair: Charla Eastep | Subject: Health/Wellness
What are the secrets to feeling love and happiness? Sonja Lyubomirsky, a distinguished professor of psychology at University of California, Riverside, will explore answers. Originally from Russia, she earned her undergraduate degree from Harvard University and her Ph.D. from Stanford University. She teaches social psychology and well-being science and has received multiple teaching and mentoring awards. Her research on happiness has earned major honors, including fellowships from scientific societies, an honorary doctorate from the University of Basel and awards such as the Templeton Positive Psychology Prize. She is the bestselling author of The How of Happiness and The Myths of Happiness, which have been published in 39 countries.
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MARCH 15, 2027 – Speaker: Elizabeth Wislar
A Dramatic Life: Costumes are Never Just Clothing
Chair: Wendy Luke | Subject: Costume Design
Costume design shapes storytelling on stage, from the creative process and historical inspiration to the practical artistry of bringing characters to life through fabric, color and silhouette. Join Elizabeth Wislar, costume director at the American Shakespeare Theater and professor of costume and theater at Washington and Lee University, as she shows the history, politics, geography, gender and generalizations of fashion that are embedded in each costume. An award-winning costume professional whose career includes more than 300 productions, Wislar will put her storied career on full display as she recounts radical and humorous moments, how design decisions are made and the lasting impacts of the current textile industry. A display of many of Wislar’s favorite costumes will also be featured for a multi-sensory experience.
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MARCH 22, 2027 – Speaker: Jonathan Turley
The State of the Supreme Court
Chair: Courtney Hyers | Subject: Law
Jonathan Turley is a law professor at George Washington University and a nationally recognized legal scholar who has written extensively about constitutional law, legal theory and tort law. Over three dozen of his academic articles have appeared in a variety of leading law journals at Cornell, Duke, Georgetown, Harvard and other schools. He is the New York Times bestselling author of The Indispensable Right: Free Speech in an Age of Rage and Rage and the Republic: The Unfinished Story of the American Revolution. Turley is a respected and well-known interpreter of historic Supreme Court rulings that include abortion, gun rights, free speech and religious freedom. Corporate law and regulatory disputes continue to put the court in the middle of what Turley calls “age of rage” political debates. Interspersed with talk about packing the court, impeachments and resignations, Turley will interpret and explain current legal issues.
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APRIL 5, 2027 – Speaker: Marshall Watson
Defining Elegance Through the Classic Worlds of Interior Design, Architecture and Gardening
Chair: Margaret Ivey | Subject: Interior Design
Informed not only by his careers in theater design and acting, but also by his passion for gardening, Marshall Watson weaves together principles that have strongly influenced his particular approach to interior design. Identifiably elegant, his work has all the hallmarks of classic design: site specific, client sensitive, well-researched, highly detailed and historically inspired. Yet his work is always comfortable, creative and approachable. This careful orchestration has led the media to hail his flawless eye for detail, spirited elegance, gracious sense of proportion and unerring sense of color. During his presentation, members will experience the depth and breadth of his designs. Travel with Watson as he opens doors from New York to Napa, Hawaii to Palm Beach, and shares his informative, entertaining and often moving journey.