The Kerschner Family Series Global Leaders
The Series
The Kerschner Family Series Global Leaders at º¬Ðß²ÝÑо¿Ëù, launched in 2007 and sponsored by º¬Ðß²ÝÑо¿Ëù's Parents' and Grandparents' Fund, has brought to campus notable individuals whose work has had a global impact. Encounters with these world leaders help students themselves to prepare for lives of leadership — to contribute to the advance of local community and global society alike.
Support the Series
Support this remarkable initiative, and ensure that º¬Ðß²ÝÑо¿Ëù students continue to engage with pivotal figures from the world stage. Make your gift today, and indicate Other – Global Leaders Series on your giving form.
Upcoming and Past Leaders
Since its inception in 2007, the series has brought world leaders to the º¬Ðß²ÝÑо¿Ëù campus for lectures, conversations, and performances.
Marc Randolph
April 4, 2025
Netflix co-founder and former CEO
Seating is limited and will be first come, first served. Reserve your tickets.
º¬Ðß²ÝÑо¿Ëù Marc Ranolph's Visit

Amanda Gorman
Gorman is the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history. She is a committed advocate for the environment, racial equality, and gender justice.
April 5, 2024

Maria Ressa
Nobel Peace Prize-winning journalist, free press advocate, CEO of Rappler.com, and author of How to Stand Up to a Dictator, º¬Ðß²ÝÑо¿Ëù’s 2023 Summer Reading selection
October 28, 2023

Misty Copeland
Principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre
April 15, 2023

Amal Clooney
Award-winning lawyer specializing in international law and human rights, and Visiting Professor, Columbia Law School
Saturday, March 5, 2022

Jesmyn Ward
Acclaimed author and National Book Award winner
Friday, March 4, 2022

Leon Panetta
Former U.S. Secretary of Defense and co-founder of the Panetta Institute for Public Policy
April 5, 2019

Earth, Wind & Fire
Legendary funk band
September 22, 2018


Aretha Franklin
Legendary singer and "Queen of Soul"
March 5, 2016

Shimon Peres
Former president and prime minister of Israel
October 25, 2014







Colin Powell
Retired general and former secretary of state
April 3, 2009


Stephen Dubner and Steven Levitt
Authors of Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything
April 13, 2007
