45th Vice President of the United States; Nobel Peace Laureate; Senior Advisor to Google; Board of Directors, Apple; Chairman, Generation Investment Management; Chairman, Current TV; Chairman, The Climate Reality Project ; Bestselling Author

A political, business, and environmental visionary recognized around the world as one of humanity’s leading minds, Vice President Al Gore offers a unique perspective on national and international affairs. Referred by TIME Magazine as “a businessman who is out to change the world,” Vice President Gore’s status as a leader in global politics, technology and business influences his positions as Senior Advisor to Google and member of the Board of Directors of Apple. In addition, he is Chairman of Generation Investment Management, an asset-management company incorporating sustainability values into the financial-services world, and a senior partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Silicon Valley’s preeminent venture firm. He also co-founded Current TV, an Emmy-Award winning cable news and information channel.

One of the most powerful champions of environmental awareness in America today, Vice President Gore continues to lead the campaign to educate the world on climate change, most recently launching an exciting new global campaign, "The Climate Reality Project." One of his best-selling books on climate change, An Inconvenient Truth, was turned into a critically acclaimed documentary which won two Oscar awards.

Director, White House Office of Energy and Climate Change Policy (2009 to 2011); Former Administrator of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ; Distinguished Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress; Senior Counselor, Albright Stonebridge Group

For over a quarter of a century, Carol Browner has been at the forefront of the United States’ environmental and energy polices. As President Clinton’s EPA Administrator and as President Obama’s "Energy Czar," Browner has negotiated, developed, proposed and implemented U.S. policy affecting global energy, environment, public health and business matters.

Today, Browner provides her expertise through dual roles in the business and policymaking arenas and serves as a Senior Counselor at Albright Stonebridge Group, a global strategy firm.

Secretary-General of the United Nations,
1997-2006; Nobel Peace Prize Recipient, 2001; Board of Directors, United Nations Foundation; Chairman of the Board of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa; Li Ka Shing Professor, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy

As the world’s most prominent diplomat, Kofi Annan has been a powerful voice on issues of human rights, international cooperation, and in the fight against HIV/AIDS. A skilled leader during a difficult era, Secretary-General Annan provides powerful insights into the challenges facing the international community, and the role of the United Nations in achieving global peace and security.

World-Renowned Conservationist; Founder, Jane Goodall Institute; United Nations Messenger of Peace

In the more than 50 years since she began studying chimpanzees in Africa, Dr. Jane Goodall established her identity as a tireless advocate for environmental stewardship.

Chairman of JP Morgan/Brookings Institution Global Cities Initiative ; Director, The Coca Cola Company ; Mayor of Chicago, 1989-2011 ; “Widely Viewed as the Nation’s Top Urban Executive” - TIME

As one of the world’s most celebrated mayors, Richard M. Daley has found ways to spread his message of global commerce though urban innovation since leaving his Chicago post. Recently named senior advisor to JP Morgan Chase and chairman of the Global Cities Initiative, a joint project of the Brookings Institution and JP Morgan Chase, Daley brings his tactical experience to audiences around the world. He consistently delivers newsworthy and topical presentations to the world's leading institutions, giving them highly informed perspectives to succeed in today’s economy.

According to TIME Magazine, Mayor Richard M. Daley “is widely viewed as the nation’s top urban executive.” As a city CEO, he earned a reputation - both in Chicago and across the U.S. – for acting proactively and implementing forward looking policies, many of which are emulated around the world. His innovative, community-based programs have tackled many of the fundamental challenges facing America today - strengthening the economy by focusing on jobs and businesses of the future, including green technology and clean energy; bringing new businesses and jobs to the community; and creating education initiatives that provide better job and skill training for a workforce that is ready to work in the new economy emerging from the nation's recession. At the same time, he made it an ongoing priority during his tenure to control government spending, and hold the government to higher standards of accountability and transparency, in order to better serve Chicago's taxpayers. One of the hallmarks of his leadership was pulling the people of Chicago together to "focus on what unites us," challenging the city to work together and put aside politics to focus on shared solutions to Chicago's problems.

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT: WHEATON COLLEGE: Mayor Daley reflects on his tenure, as well as his passion for public service. /// ASIA SOCIETY: Mayor Daley addresses education and the importance of multi-lingual and multi-cultural education in today's global cities.

California’s 38th Governor ; Cultural Icon ; Environmental Crusader

The world knows Arnold Schwarzenegger as a famous bodybuilder and a Hollywood action hero, but he is also a successful businessman, generous philanthropist and California's 38th Governor. During his tenure as CEO and Governor of the eighth largest economy in the world, Gov.Schwarzenegger fought to protect California's economy by taking on the special interest groups, from both sides of the aisle, with a David vs. Goliath approach. It was a battle of the old economy versus the new, as he worked to reform California's fiscal policies, create a better business environment, reduce burdens on employment, boost exports and stimulate job growth.

ARTICLE SPOTLIGHT: Read Gov. Schwarzenegger's Wall Street Journal article, "The Clean Air Act Keeps Us Healthy."

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT: Watch a video clip of Gov. Schwarzenegger's recent, inspirational presentation at the University of Buffalo, which includes a compelling behind-the-scenes look at his meet and greet sessions, as well as footage from his iconic roles in politics and entertainment. WATCH VIDEO

Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan; Founder & Chair, King Hussein Foundation; Founding Member, Global Zero (international initiative working towards the elimination of all nuclear weapons worldwide)

Her Majesty Queen Noor is an international humanitarian, activist and an outspoken voice on issues of global peace-building, nuclear non-proliferation, women's empowerment, and cross-cultural understanding. She is actively involved in a number of international organizations dealing with global peace-building and conflict recovery and currently serves as an expert advisor to the United Nations on these issues.

Lead Singer of U2; Co-Founder of DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa)

Bono uses his rock star status to raise awareness about the crises in Africa: unpayable debts, uncontrolled spread of AIDS, and the unfair trade rules which keep Africans poor. In 2002, Bono co-founded DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa) to raise public awareness of the issues in its name, and influence government policy on Africa. On behalf of DATA, Bono has lobbied U.S. Presidents and Congressional leaders, along with the heads of many other G8 nations. DATA is a founding member of the One Campaign to make poverty history, which is part of a global network of millions of people campaigning against extreme poverty.

Current President, Riverview Capital Investments ; Chairman, Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission ; Democratic Nominee, Governor of California 2006 ; California State Treasurer, 1999-2007; Chairman, Apollo Alliance Advisory Board

Phil Angelides is a nationally recognized authority on financial reform and corporate responsibility. Leading the Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission created by the Obama administration in 2009, Angelides’ proven expertise and lauded reputation is revered among corporations worldwide . Today Angelides gives insight on a myriad of innovative solutions to create jobs and drive economic progress.

Pioneering Scientific Researcher; Founder, Chairman and President of the J. Craig Venter Institute; Founder and CEO of Synthetic Genomics Inc.

Most well-known for his visionary contributions in sequencing the first draft of human genome and first complete human genome sequence, Dr. Venter is regarded as one of the leading scientists of the 21st century for his invaluable contributions in genomic research. From positively impacting human health and better treating disease to enabling a better understanding of the environment and potentially creating new biological sources of energy, Dr. Venter illuminates how the field of genomics has the power to transform the world around us. Dr. Venter was awarded the 2008 National Medal of Science from President Obama. In 2007 and 2008, Dr. Venter was named one of Time Magazine’s “Most Influential People” in the Scientists and Thinkers category and was also listed among Foreign Policy’s “Public Intellectuals.”

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT! Watch Dr. Venter's Recent 60 Minutes interview.

ARTICLE SPOTLIGHT: Is Craig Venter going to save the planet? in The Washington Post

EVENT SPOTLIGHT: Dr. Venter spoke before a crowd of 2,000+ attendees at the 24th Season of the University of Buffalo's Distinguished Speakers Series, and received glowing feedback: "Dr. Venter was a terrific, giving guest - a wonderful, fascinating, thought-provoking speaker with sensational visuals. Dr. Venter presented a Master Class to the audience!"

The Shaman’s Apprentice ; Time Magazine “Hero for the Planet”; The Skoll Foundation's 2008 "Social Entrepreneur of the Year"

World-renowned explorer and spell binding story-teller, Mark Plotkin is a Time magazine “Hero for the Planet,” and star of the Academy Award nominated IMAX documentary, Amazon. Respected and revered for his work in the Amazon Rainforests, Plotkin’s fascinating adventures inspire audiences to dream big, take risks, overcome adversity, and look beyond the obvious or expected, pushing the limits of commonly accepted concepts. Over the course of his 20 year journey deep in the jungles, Plotkin has endured some of the most bizarre encounters with nature. Whether sleeping in a tiny thatched hut, suffering from vampire-bat bites, eating delicacies like boiled rat, or nearly being electrocuted by a giant eel, Plotkin continues to race against time in saving the rainforest, the ancient knowledge of its shamans and its enchanted and endangered existence.

Emmy-Nominated Actor; Television Host; Environmental Activist

When it comes to taking personal responsibility for the environment, few individuals can match the record of actor and activist Ed Begley, Jr. Known for turning up at Hollywood events on his bicycle, Mr. Begley Jr. sits on the board of countless environmental groups and hosts his own TV show, espousing a true belief in the power of “green living.”

Wildlife Expert; Co-host, Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom; Environmental Conservationist

In his popular live presentations, Peter will share his exciting animal world, travel experiences and timeless tales. He highlights his many adventures with a mix of video clips and bloopers while introducing friendly exotic animals to audience members, and telling inspirational stories dealing with issues of conservation, travel, and wildlife filming. Peter's fascinating stories have been thrilling and educating audiences across the country for years. Showcasing his dynamic stage presence, humor, and his undeniably infectious love for animals, Peter's presentation can be customized to meet your next event or meeting.

Bestselling Author of Everything Is Illuminated and Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close; Author, Eating Animals

Award-winning, bestselling author Jonathan Safran Foer combines the very best in literary virtuosity and vision with a personality and performance that will provoke laughter and thoughtful dialogue.

Economist ; Principal Advisor to the European Union on Economic Development, Energy Security and Climate Change Policy ; President, Foundation on Economic Trends; Bestselling Author, The End of Work and The Age of Access; Fellow, Wharton School’s Executive Education Program

Jeremy Rifkin and his ideas are not without controversy. The author of seventeen books on the impact of scientific and technological changes on the economy, the workforce, society and the environment, Mr. Rifkin advocates a new type of economic thinking. He is a proponent of sustainable development, quality of life and the nurturing of community. His books have been translated into more than thirty languages and are used in hundreds of universities, corporations and government agencies around the world. Mr. Rifkin is one of the highest rated speakers on the international lecture circuit on the topics of globalization, sustainability and shifting to a new energy era and low-carbon economy. CNN-International is airing a documentary on his Third Industrial Revolution vision for their program Principal Voices.  Click here to view the trailer.

Founder of Winston Eco-Strategies; Author, Green to Gold: How Smart Companies Use Environmental Strategy to Innovate, Create Value, and Build Competitive Advantage; Director of the Corporate Environmental Strategy Project at Yale’s Environment School

As director of the Corporate Environmental Strategy Project at Yale’s Environment School, Andrew Winston studies companies like BP, Toyota, IKEA, GE and Nike who are achieving both environmental and business success. In his speeches Winston puts this knowledge to work by showing companies how to create an “eco-advantage” in the marketplace as traditional elements of competitive differentiation fade in importance.

Award-Winning Architect and Designer; Time Hero of the Planet

William McDonough established himself as a leader in the sustainable development movement since its inception. Recognized by Time magazine as a Hero for the Planet, his vision of the hopeful, positive, and inspiring possibilities of an environmentally and economically intelligent future by design has made him a highly sought-after speaker for a wide range of audiences both internationally and in the U.S.

Chair, David Suzuki Foundation; Award Winning Scientist; Environmentalist and Broadcaster

Dr. David Suzuki, environmentalist, scientist, and broadcaster, is known for his passion for science and his ability to explain complex scientific issues with clarity and simplicity in person and on the television.

Deep-Sea Explorer; Leader of Titanic Expeditions

Dr. Joe MacInnis is a medical doctor who studies leadership and teamwork in life-threatening environments from the deep ocean to outer space. He’s led thirty expeditions under the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic Oceans including the first team of scientists to dive under the ice at the North Pole. His latest passion and project is working with fellow deep sea enthusiasts like “Titanic” director James Cameron to map out and execute new strategies for dealing with the Gulf Oil Spill and the spreading environmental disaster, and to put in place future plans and procedures so that we are never again faced with a crisis like this.

Former head of PricewaterhouseCooper's Sustainability Business Services practice; Author, The Triple Bottom Line - How Today's Best-Run Companies are Achieving Economic, Social and Environmental Success

In a survey of 900 global corporations released by PricewaterhouseCoopers, 80 percent of CEOs said they believe "sustainability" is or soon will be vital to the profitability of their company, and 71 percent said they would consider sacrificing short-term profits to move their company towards sustainability-a sure sign that the world's leading CEOs see it as the corporate model of the future. Andrew Savitz has been called “the man who wrote the book on sustainability.” This former head of PricewaterhouseCooper’s Sustainability Practice and best-selling author of The Triple Bottom Line is an expert on how executives and companies can do well by doing good. His speeches are dynamic, living events, full of insights and humor, in which Savitz helps executives and companies create a blueprint to find their way to a sustainable, profitable future in today's daunting era of environmental and social accountability.

Conservationist; Co-Founder of the Mountain Gorilla Project

One of the world’s foremost experts on wildlife and wilderness conservation, Dr. Amy Vedder is a passionate advocate for conservation and the importance it plays in our lives.

Founder and President, Good Food Organics; Presidential Candidate for the Democratic Nomination, 2004; United States Ambassador, 1999 – 2001; United States Senator, 1992 – 1998

A woman of extensive achievements and a pioneering entrepreneur, Carol Moseley Braun has established herself as an agent for change passionate about preserving the American Dream for the next generation. Carol Moseley Braun combines philosophy, history, and policy to provide a unique perspective on various topics.

MIT Professor; Former Director, Central Intelligence Agency; Former Undersecretary, U.S. Department of Energy; Board of Directors, Cheniere Energy

Former Undersecretary for the U.S. Department of Energy, John Deutch is world renowned in studies on energy and the environment. Mr. Deutch has published over 140 technical publications in physical chemistry, as well as numerous publications on technology, energy, international security, and public policy issues. In his speeches Dr. Deutch brings his academic training and government experience to cover topics as diverse as world security, technology and energy.

Co-chair of the President's Oil Spill Commission; Member, Congressional Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission; Chair, Weapons of Mass Destruction Policy Center; Member, CIA External Advisory Board; Three-Time U.S. Senator; 2004 Presidential Candidate; Two-Time Governor of Florida

Senator Bob Graham is the former two–term governor of Florida and served for 18 years in the United States Senate. This is combined with 12 years in the Florida legislature for a total of 38 years of public service. As Governor and Senator, Bob Graham was a centrist, committed to bringing his colleagues together behind programs that served the broadest public interest. He was recognized by the people of Florida when he received an 83% approval ranking as he concluded eight years as Governor. Senator Graham retired from public service in January 2005, following his Presidential campaign in 2004. He is recognized for his leadership on issues ranging from healthcare, environmental preservation and education, to his ten years of service on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. He continues his government service as President Obama’s choice to co-chair the Bi-Partisan Commission on the Mexican Oil Spill.

Actress; Author; Activist

Annabelle Gurwitch takes social issues and gives them her own brand of humor and perspective. At the podium, she speaks on sustainability issues around the country.

Legendary National Geographic Photographer; Author, The Nature of Leadership

Where do we find the vision to take our lives to the next level? How do we summon the passion to keep “raising the bar”? How can we make our life less of a struggle and more of a joy? For photographer and creativity expert, Dewitt Jones, the answers to these questions lie in the images we hold about ourselves, our future and our individual growth.

Actress; Social & Environmental Activist ; Singer

In addition to being know as a multiple Emmy and Golden Globe Award nominated actress, Gloria Reuben is dedicated to advocating for several causes. Gloria is successful on the speaking circuit, where her focus is on the environment, HIV/AIDS, human rights, women’s issues and the arts. She has also become a fixture in Washington, D.C. where she has been lobbying for these causes.

Founding Executive Director of the Breakthrough Technologies Institute; Environmental Activist

Robert Rose has dedicated his life to freeing the U.S. from its dangerous and expensive addiction to oil, advocating for a radical new America energy paradigm.

Polar Explorer; Environmental Leader; First Person ever to have walked the North and South Poles

Robert Swan is a polar explorer, environmental leader and the first man ever to walk to both the North and South poles. He is an exceptionally gifted communicator and is regarded as one of the world’s top motivational speakers. The unique insights and lessons he has learned enable Robert Swan to educate and stimulate his audiences. Robert speaks all over the world on leadership, teamwork and inspiration. He compares his icy experiences to boardroom maneuvers and his inspirational addresses have received the acclaim of discerning audiences worldwide. Robert Swan has an extraordinary ability to move people and motivate audiences. Robert’s presentations are thrilling, uplifting and stimulating.

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT: View a video clip compilation of Robert Swan's presentations.