Founder, The William J. Clinton Foundation; 42^nd President of the United States of America

Bill Clinton was elected President of the United States in 1992, and again in 1996—the first Democratic president to be awarded a second term in six decades. President Clinton’s core values of building community, creating opportunity, and demanding responsibility resulted in unprecedented progress for America.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT: President Clinton spoke to a record-breaking crowd at the Annual Convention of the National Retail Federation in NYC recently. The organization's blog site boasted: "He was the first current or former President to appear, and helped boost attendance to a record 25,500." Read more...

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.

Secretary of State, 1973-1977; Nobel Peace Laureate

Foreign Policy Magazine named Henry Kissinger one of the "Top 100 Global Thinkers" for a "Half-Century Ruling the U.S. Foreign Policy Community." World-renowned for his unparalleled skills in the art of diplomacy, Dr. Kissinger is one of the shrewdest, best-informed and most articulate figures ever to occupy a position in Washington. A vital presence in international and national politics, Dr. Kissinger understands firsthand the delicate balance of world power and America’s influence.

46th Vice President of the United States; Secretary of Defense; Congressman, House Leadership; White House Chief of Staff; Former Chairman and CEO of Halliburton

For over 40 years, Dick Cheney has served at the highest levels of the US Government and private sector. As White House Chief of Staff in the aftermath of Watergate and America’s withdrawal from Vietnam, Wyoming’s Congressman and a member of the House Republican leadership during the Reagan years, Secretary of Defense as the Cold War ended and America defeated Iraq in Desert Storm, former CEO of Halliburton, and Vice President of the United States on 9/11 at the dawn of the Global War on Terror, Cheney has participated in many of the events that have shaped our nation for over four decades. Few Americans alive today can match the breadth and depth of his experience and service.

As a statesman, policymaker, businessman, and politician – who never lost an election in which his name was on the ballot--Cheney’s insight, experiences and knowledge are unparalleled.

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT: Bob Schieffer from CBS' "Face the Nation" spoke with former Vice President Richard Cheney on the reception of his memoir "In My Time."

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.

Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Media

Steve Forbes is chairman, CEO, and editor in chief at Forbes Media and an internationally respected authority in the worlds of economics, finance, and corporate leadership. With the economy at the forefront of conversation on a global level, Forbes offers long-standing insights that capitalism, free markets, and a flat tax are essential to a healthy economy. This is a message Forbes has been delivering as editor of one of the world’s most successful business magazines for decades, and he continues to be one of the most sought-after speakers on this and other economic issues leading the economic debates around the world.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT: Steve Forbes received "two standing ovations" from 700+ executives from corporations throughout the Rocky Mountain region at their 2011 Rocky Mountain Corporate Growth Conference. His gracious and approachable manner also made the event "a huge success!"

President of Pakistan, 2001-2008; Chief Executive of Pakistan, 1999-2001

As the former President of Pakistan, Pervez Musharraf held "the world's most dangerous job," according to TIME Magazine. He has twice come within inches of assassination. His forces have caught more than 670 members of al Qaeda in the mountains and cities, yet many others remain at large and active, including Osama bin Laden. Long locked in a deadly embrace with its nuclear neighbor India, Pakistan has come close to full-scale war on two occasions since exploding a nuclear bomb in 1998. No stranger to controversy, President Musharraf has faced challenges with high stakes for the world at large. He offers an unparalleled view into the center of a region where the eyes of the world remain focused. President Musharraf's fascinating and compelling insights into Pakistan and its role in today's global challenges – from the economy to trade to energy – are not to be missed.

MEDIA SPOTLIGHT: Click HERE and view President Musharraf's Interview on CNN's Piers Morgan, where he addresses relations between Pakistan and the U.S., since Osama bin Laden's death.

President of Mexico, 2000-2006

A visionary leader with a deep understanding of the economic and social challenges facing Latin America, President Vicente Fox is one of the world’s most important voices on the contemporary geopolitical landscape and the role of business in the developing world.

Chancellor of Germany, 1998-2005

As Germany influences the future of both the European Union and the Euro, there is no leader better positioned than Former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder to speak on the central issues affecting the EU and the global economy.

He remains vastly popular as a principal player in the global energy sector, and is the Independent Director and Member of the Board of Directors of the Anglo-Russian oil company TNK-BP, chairman of the shareholders’ committee for the European-Russian pipeline company Nord Stream AG, a member of the European Advisory Council of the Rothschild Group since 2006, and an Advisor to Swiss publishing company Ringier.

In the years that Gerhard Schröder served as Chancellor of Germany, he did more to modernize the country's economy than had been accomplished in decades, and his insights will enlighten audiences on the decisions currently facing European governments.

President of Poland, 1995-2005; Co-Founder of the Social Democratic Party; Distinguished Scholar in the Practice of Global Leadership, Georgetown University, 2006

One of the most influential political figures to come out of Eastern Europe since the fall of communism, President Aleksander Kwasniewski is a powerful voice in the debate over the economic and political future of the former Eastern Bloc nations, including Russia and Poland; the political and economic success of these emerging democracies; and such relevant issues as energy reserves and oil.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, 1977-1979; United States Congressman, 1973-1977; Mayor of Atlanta, 1982-1990; Co-Founding Principal and Chairman, GoodWorks International

Ambassador, Congressman, Mayor, humanitarian, ordained minister, international businessman, and sports enthusiast, Andrew Young has been serving and shaping our country for almost 50 years.

Member of President Obama’s Cabinet and Director, Office of Management and Budget, 2009-2010; Director, Congressional Budget Office, 2007-2008; Vice Chairman of Institutional Clients Group at Citigroup, Inc.

Peter R. Orszag has been at the center of some of Washington's most consequential and contentious issues: He was head of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) for two years while George W. Bush was President before joining the incoming Obama administration. When President Obama named Dr. Orszag to head the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), both Republicans and Democrats praised the choice because of his proven work as CBO head. Dr. Orszag was one of Obama's top lieutenants on two of the president's signature legislative efforts: the stimulus bill and the healthcare overhaul. During the process, Dr. Orszag played full-court press, fighting internal battles over the shape of the plan, emerging as a key media spokesperson, and proving himself an adept congressional negotiator.

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT:  Peter Orszag Addresses the Economic Recovery & Future (Council on Foreign Relations); A Conversation with Peter Orszag at the Aspen Ideas Festival 

U.S. Ambassador to India, 2004-2009 ; Chairman International, Credit Suisse First Boston, 1992-2003 ; Under Secretary/ Assistant Secretary for International Affairs, U.S. Treasury, 1984 - 1992

United States Ambassador David C. Mulford came to India in early 2004, at a time when India-U.S. relations were undergoing a dramatic shift and the strategic partnership between New Delhi and Washington was gaining momentum as the two sides began working closely together on an unprecedented range of issues. Ambassador Mulford has been a major player for five years in the building of a strong partnership between the United States and India, the world’s two largest multicultural democracies. With charm and aplomb, Ambassador Mulford shares his first-hand perspective, taking audiences inside the comprehensive development of one of the most important relationships the U.S. will have with any country in the 21st century.

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.

Prime Minister of the French Republic, 2005-2007

A champion of peace and justice in the world, Dominique de Villepin was the voice of France and the international community during the Iraq crisis. He is one of the foremost advocates of a new global governance based on multilateralism, and a reformist leader in French, European and global policy. View a video clip of Prime Minister de Villepin on Charlie Rose.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, 2007-2009 ; Ambassador to Iraq, 2005-2007 ; Ambassador to Afghanistan, 2003-2005

Praised for his inclusive tactics, convivial style, and result oriented approach, Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad’s record in the most turbulent areas of U.S. foreign policy has earned him broad respect throughout the world. Serving as the 26th United States Ambassador to the United Nations, he dealt with extraordinary global issues during one of the most challenging periods in our history, including the recent Russia-Georgia conflict and the Mumbai terror attacks. He is the highest-ranking Muslim in U.S. Government in United States history. Previously, he served as U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq, where he played a significant role in facilitating both countries’ constitutions, elections and formation of government. In Iraq, he was instrumental in getting the Sunni Arabs to participate in the political process and move away from al-Qaeda. Ambassador Khalilzad’s first-hand knowledge and experience as a statesman in these important hotspots at this crucial juncture in time give him unparalleled insights into the global issues of security, terror, extremism, state building, peace negotiation, and energy.

Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), 1997-2009; Nobel Peace Prize Laureate

Nobel Prize winner, veteran diplomat, and international lawyer, Dr. Mohamed ElBaradei emerged as a high-profile opposition figure in the 2011 Egyptian protests which culminated in the resignation of Hosni Mubarak. Dr. Elbaradei continues efforts to transform Egypt into a democracy that treats people with dignity and respects human rights. Previously, he headed the International Atomic Energy Agency for 12 years, and in 2005, Dr. ElBaradei and the IAEA were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Dr. ElBaradei speaks about democratic reform, global security, the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and other subjects that draw upon his experience as an international statesman.

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT:  View an interview with TIME, where Dr. ElBaradei discusses security, the Iraq war and Iran, or view his Nobel Lecture or his address at MIT.

Former U.S. Trade Representative 1996-2001; Board Member, America China Foundation; Board of Directors of the American Express Company; The Estee Lauder Companies Inc.; Intel Corporation; Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.; and the Council on Foreign Relations

Known globally as the architect and negotiator of China’s WTO agreement, Ambassador Barshefsky is one of the world’s experts on China. With two decades of experience, she offers highly expert, in-depth knowledge about conducting business with this coming superpower. Ambassador Barshefsky also draws on the skills she used to spearhead hundreds of trade and investment agreements, as well as her unique understanding of international economic policy, and foreign and U.S. government policies,  to enlighten audiences with her wide breadth of global knowledge.

Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor for Global Democracy Strategy, 2005-2009 ; Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Near East and North African Affairs, 2002–2005 ; Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Democracy, Human Rights, and International Operations, 2001–2002

An expert on U.S. foreign policy around the globe and a top White House adviser on Middle Eastern issues, Elliott Abrams has served in major foreign policy positions for two Republican U.S. Presidents, George W. Bush and Ronald Reagan.  

Attorney General of the United States, 2001-2005; United States Senator, 1995-2001; Governor of Missouri, 1985-1993

As Attorney General during one of the most turbulent times in American history, John Ashcroft is a uniquely positioned expert on leadership, and other issues currently facing the nation.

Global Human Rights Advocate ; Nominee, 2008 Nobel Peace Prize

Ingrid Betancourt was the longest female hostage held in captivity and also the most recalled one. A global symbol of freedom and human resistance in the face of the toughest of adversaries, her fight for democracy, freedom and peace has been a shining example of dignity and bravery for the entire world.

VIDEO EXCLUSIVE! Watch Ingrid Betancourt's exclusive interview on the Oprah Winfrey Show, detailing her 6.5 year captivity deep in the jungles of South America. Watch Now!

SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY: Click here to find out about a special offer for events taking place in September 2011.

Lead political anchor for CNN and the anchor of The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer ; Former Senior White House correspondent for CNN; Emmy Award-Winning Journalist

One of the most insightful journalists in America today, Wolf Blitzer draws on his unique international breadth of experience and depth of understanding when discussing the issues facing Washington and the world today.

U.N. Weapons Inspector, 2000 – 2003; Chairman of the International Commission on Weapons of Mass Destruction

Swedish diplomat and scientist Dr. Hans Blix provides his own unique insider's account concerning the search for weapons of mass destruction in Iraq prior to the war in 2003 and the ongoing campaign to eliminate these weapons from the world.

Sixth Secretary-General of the United Nations, 1992-1997

Utilizing the power of the United Nations to promote and maintain peace across the globe, Boutros Boutros-Ghali has had a long association with international affairs as a diplomat, jurist, scholar and widely published author.

Special Adviser to the Secretary-General of the United Nations (2004-2005)

A veteran United Nations envoy and advisor, Lakhdar Brahimi has played a central role in world events for the past 40 years. Intimately familiar with the politics of the Middle East, African and Asian world, Ambassador Brahimi lectures regularly in the U.S., Europe, Africa and the Arab world, bringing a veteran perspective to the emerging nations and world conflicts that dominate the news today.

Presidential Envoy to Iraq, 2003-2004; Chairman, Bipartisan National Commission on Terrorism, 1999-2000; Ambassador to the Netherlands, 1983-1986; Ambassador at Large for Counter Terrorism, 1986-1989; Former Chairman and CEO Marsh Crisis Consulting; Former Managing Director Kissinger and Associates

Ambassador Bremer is one of the world’s leading experts on crisis management, terrorism and homeland security. His leadership role as Presidential Envoy to Iraq gives him a unique perspective on the war against terrorism as well as insights on how to be an effective leader during periods of change.

National Security Advisor to President Jimmy Carter; Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for American-Chinese Relations; Author of Second Chance: Three Presidents and the Crisis of American Superpower

Dr. Zbigniew Brzezinski uses his experiences as an international advisor to multi-national corporations to address the most important international issues facing businesses today.

Secretary of Homeland Security, 2005-2009

Leader and statesman, Michael Chertoff came to the job of 2nd Secretary of Homeland Security with a background heavy with experience in fighting terrorism, having served as the head of the Justice Department's criminal division in the months after Sept. 11th. As Assistant Attorney General, he helped trace the 9/11 terrorist attacks to the al-Qaeda network, and worked to increase information sharing within the FBI and with state and local officials. In 2003, after Mr. Chertoff had proved instrumental in winning approval of the Patriot Act and other anti-terrorism measures, President Bush called him "a key leader in the war on terror," and turned to Mr. Chertoff in early 2005 to head the Department of Homeland Security. Overseeing the federal behemoth operating 22 agencies and 180,000 employees and facing the daunting task of managing the risk of numerous threats to America’s security, Secretary Chertoff implemented programs and capabilities that did not exist prior to September 11, to better equip the U.S. to deal with the threats of the 21st century across land, sea, and air.

Senior Advisor for Comcast Corporation, Present; Former Pentagon Spokesperson; ABC Commentator; Contributor to the Tony Kornheiser Show on ESPN Radio

A Senior Advisor for Comcast Corporation and on-air commentator for ABC, Torie Clarke has advised some of the nation’s best-known executives. Best known to the public as the chief spokesperson for the Pentagon on 9/11 and the beginning of the Iraq war, Torie Clarke has long been respected within the worlds of politics and public relations as one of the most insightful experts on communication in the age of transparency. The architect of the media "embedding" program in Iraq, Clarke has stood on the leading edge of this transformation of the information environment for more than two decades.

MEDIA SPOTLIGHT: Torie Clarke joined a fascinating roundtable discussion about Gender Politics on This Week with Christiane Amanpour, where she addressed the success of women in political and business leadership roles, and the different qualities that women bring to the table in order to "get the job done." Watch Video... Also, watch an additional interview from the green room: Click here...

52nd Governor of New York State

Known as an intellectual, passionate, and challenging voice for democracy, social responsibility, and diversity, Governor Mario Cuomo reminds us of our collective American legacy.

CNBC Contributor; Founder, Democracy for America; Chairman, Democratic National Committee, 2005-2009; Architect of the “50-State Strategy”; 2004 Candidate for the Democratic Nomination for President; Governor of Vermont, 1991-2003

Howard Dean is a revolutionary political strategist, whose game-changing implementation of a new era of politics - based on grassroots support and cutting edge internet technology -fundamentally altered the way campaigns are run in America. His tenure as the Governor of Vermont and Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, provided him with both an insider's view and a reformer's commitment for visionary change, that has made him a sought-after voice on some of the most debated political issues of our day.

His 12 years as Governor and his Chairmanship of the National Governor's Association have given him a vast knowledge of domestic issues. His skillful stewardship of the party as Democratic National Committee chair began in 2005 and continued through the inauguration of President Barack Obama. As Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, Governor Dean made the Democratic Party competitive in every race, in every district, in every state and territory, while integrating national and state party operations and standing up for Democrats' core values. 

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT! CLICK HERE to watch an engaging point counterpoint between Howard Dean and Fred Thompson, which took place one day after the 2010 Midterm Elections.

Renowned Defense Attorney; Bestselling Author; Professor at Harvard Law School

Hailed by Newsweek as one of the “most distinguished defenders of individual rights,” Alan Dershowitz continues to challenge audiences with his thought-provoking perspectives on today’s foremost social, legal, and ethical issues.

Member of President Obama's Economic Advisory Panel ; 27th Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission; Former Chairman and CEO, New York Stock Exchange; Former, U.S. Undersecretary of State

As one of the members of President Obama's high-profile Economic Recovery Advisory Board, and with his experience as Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, which is perhaps the most important rule-making authority for U.S. financial markets, William Donaldson is one of the most sought-after speakers regarding the current state of the economy and prospects for the road to recovery.

18th Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, 2003-2007; U.S. Senator from Tennessee, 1995-2007; Heart-Lung Transplant Surgeon; Leading Voice on the Healthcare Debate; Board Member, Clinton Bush Haiti Fund; Co-chair, Partnership for a Healthier America; Founder, Tennessee State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE)

Uniquely qualified to discuss the challenges and solutions in healthcare policy, Senator Frist is consistently recognized among the most influential leaders in American healthcare. Both a nationally recognized heart and lung transplant surgeon and former U.S. Senate Majority Leader, Bill Frist has been at the forefront of many debates and government initiatives that have shaped a myriad of policies over the years. He brings and experienced voice to the current political, and health related issues of the day, with a keen focus on domestic health reform and global health policy.

ARTICLE SPOTLIGHT: "America's Greatness and 'Real' Healthcare Reform"

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT: "Former Senator Bill Frist on East Africa famine" featured on BBC News

Assistant to President George W. Bush for Policy & Strategic Planning, 2005-2006; Assistant to the President for Speechwriting and Policy Advisor, 2002-2005; Washington Post Op-Ed Columnist; Former Senior Fellow, U.S. Council on Foreign Relations

Michael Gerson has been called one of President Bush’s most trusted advisors, the most influential presidential speechwriter in almost a half-century and the conscience of the White House. As a senior administration official who has participated in some of the most important events of recent history, he brings a broad perspective, and strong and informed views, to the political and policy debates of the day.

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, 2003-2008

Dan Gillerman was appointed Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations in 2003, the first time that Israel nominated someone from the private sector to this post. Armed with eloquent English and an understanding of the media rules of the game, Ambassador Gillerman may have landed in New York relatively unknown, but he soon emerged on the diplomatic frontline during the war in Iraq, the 2006 conflict in Lebanon, the growing Iranian nuclear program and other global challenges. Always direct, and always entertaining, “His addresses at the Security Council during the Second Lebanon War were among the best the organization has seen in recent years, and there are those who even noted that he caused the institution to awake from its boredom.” (Ynetnews)

MEDIA SPOTLIGHT: Dan Gillerman was recently interviewed on FoxNews regarding the current American/Israeli relations. Watch video...

President, Shalem Foundation ; Senior Fellow, Shalem Center in Jerusalem; National Jewish Book Award Winning Author ; Columnist, Jerusalem Post; Contributor, New York Times ; Founding Dean, Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies at the University of Judaism

Dr. Daniel Gordis is widely cited on matters pertaining to Israel. Professor Alan Dershowitz has called him “one of Israel’s most thoughtful observers,” while Jeffrey Goldberg of the Atlantic has written, “If you asked me, ‘of all the people you know, who cares the most about the physical, moral and spiritual health of Israel?’ I would put the commentator and scholar Daniel Gordis at the top of the list.”

Former Editor-in-Chief, The Jerusalem Post (2004–2011) ; U.S. National Jewish Book Award Winning Author

David Horovitz was the editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post, Israel’s English-language daily, for seven years (2004-2011). During his tenure he has moved the newspaper to the heart of the Israeli-Diaspora discourse, and helped build www.jpost.com into the world’s most-read English-language Jewish news website.

Dean, Columbia Business School; Chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisors under President George W. Bush, 2001-2003

An economic advisor to Presidents, a well-respected Dean and Professor, R. Glenn Hubbard has been the architect of policies that affect millions. His groundbreaking research in the areas of tax policy, monetary economics, international finance and corporate finance has earned him international acclaim as a leader in economic theory and application.  A prolific writer, he rises at 4 a.m. to pen research papers and op–eds that regularly appear in The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. He’s a frequent guest on such programs as NPR's Marketplace and PBS's Nightly Business Report.

Counselor to President George W. Bush, 2001-2002; Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, 2005-2007; Global Vice Chair of Burson-Marsteller

Karen Hughes is a senior strategist helping business leaders strengthen their corporate/CEO reputations, achieve business goals through effective communications and shape positive public and stakeholder perceptions. She has also been described as "the most powerful woman ever to serve in the White House" (Dallas Morning News) and "the most powerful public diplomacy czar in decades" (The Boston Globe). As Under Secretary of State, she traveled to more than 50 countries, meeting world leaders and reaching out to international audiences.

ARTICLE SPOTLIGHT: Karen Hughes Remembers the 9/11 Terror Attacks

United States Ambassador to the State of Israel, 1995-1997; 2000-2001; Assistant Secretary of State for Near East Affairs, 1997-2000; Vice President and Director for Foreign Policy at the Brookings Institution

Ambassador Martin Indyk was an active participant in the dramatic Middle East Peace Process that grabbed the world’s attention and played a leading role in building bridges to peace between Israel and its Arab neighbors.

ARTICLE SPOTLIGHT: In Egypt, How to Bend History's Arc for the Better

VIDEO CLIP: Amb. Indyk addresses the threat of nuclear arms in a panel discussion. Click here to view the debate.

United States Ambassador to Israel , 2001-2005; United States Ambassador to Egypt, 1997-2001; Professor of Middle East Policy, Princeton University

Having served in numerous positions of international influence, Ambassador Daniel Kurtzer is a uniquely qualified speaker with a distinct perspective on the geopolitical realties and culture of one of the world's most troubled regions.

Chairman of WPP Group; Senior Advisor to Morgan Stanley International; U.S. Ambassador to the Court of St. James’, 1997-2001

Former U.S. Ambassador to the Court of St. James’, Phillip Lader is uniquely qualified to discuss current international, economic and political issues, as well as business strategy, leadership, and ethics.

Editor-in-Chief, Haaretz, 2004-2008; Political analyst and commentator; Correspondent, The Economist; Author of Piety and Power – The World of Jewish Fundamentalism; Collaboration with Israel’s President, Shimon Peres, on Peres’ memoirs, Battling for Peace

David Landau is something of a rare bird: on the left politically; on the right religiously – and this makes for unfailingly lively, original and thought-provoking presentations and discussions whenever he speaks in public. Landau lectures widely, and appears frequently on the BBC and on U.S. and Canadian networks as a commentator on Israeli politics and society. His long career in journalism give him authoritative insight into Israel’s past and present. In his lectures, Landau speaks knowledgeably, insightfully and provocatively on the challenges and predicaments facing Israel and the Jewish People.

Senior Fellow and Director of The Washington Institute's Project on the Middle East Peace Process

David Makovsky’s expert insights and accessible and engaging style on the past, present and future of U.S. policy to the Middle East and Arab-Israeli peace process shed light on future challenges and opportunities.

ARTICLE SPOTLIGHT: Mr. Makovsky's recent article for USAToday, "Egypt should take its time building a democracy,"  illuminates the challenges that lie ahead. Read article...

Deputy Director and Acting Director of Central Intelligence, 2000-2004; Distinguished Practitioner in Residence at the Johns Hopkins University, School of Advanced International Studies; Frequent commentator in leading newspapers and broadcast media

John McLaughlin served the last two Presidents as Deputy Director of the CIA, capping a three decade-long career at the Agency. During that time, he held pivotal positions at moments of enormous historical significance and possesses insights on foreign affairs, intelligence operations, and crisis management that come from operating at the highest levels of the government.

Israel’s Ambassador to the United States (2006-2009); Chairman, Jewish Agency for Israel (1999-2005); Chairman, World Zionist Organization (1999-2005)

How to enhance the critical relations between America and Israel? How to secure American aid  to Israel? How to prevent Iran from becoming a military nuclear power? Will America support Israel in an increasingly hostile international arena? How to secure the Bipartisan support for Israel? As Israel’s Ambassador to the U.S., Sallai Meridor was at the forefront, addressing these challenges. Deeply engaged with both administrations, and highly networked on Capitol Hill, Meridor played a key role in nurturing the critical relations between Israel and the US.

Having served until 2005 as the Chairperson of the Jewish Agency for Israel, Meridor focused on the next generation of Jews, the key to the future of Israel and the Jewish people. Currently, Meridor is the Chairperson of a new VC fund focusing on Israeli IT and Cyber Security, While at the same time is volunteering in a variety of NGO’s, focused on the future of Israel and the Jewish people.

ARTICLE SPOTLIGHT:  Read Meridor's telling article, As Iran watches the Arab Spring, who is watching Iran?, written in The Washington Post

Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist; Bestselling Author

A champion of first amendment rights and advocate for preserving journalistic integrity, Judith Miller spent 85 days in jail for refusing to testify before a federal grand jury and protecting her confidential sources. With 30 years of experience writing for The New York Times and a Pulitzer Prize for her work, Ms. Miller shares unique insights and perspectives to provide audiences with a greater understanding of first amendment rights and national security issues.

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.

Senior Associate, Carnegie’s International Economics Program; Former Editor in Chief of the Award-Winning Foreign Policy Magazine ; Executive Director, World Bank, 1990-1992; Frequent Davos World Economic Forum Speaker

Editor of award-winning Foreign Policy magazine , member of TIME Magazine’s International Economic Board, frequent Davos World Economic Forum speaker, Business School Dean, MIT PhD and World Bank Executive Director, Moisés Naím examines abstract trends and, with a storyteller’s deft gift, translates them into practical knowledge. Offering insights on how financial crashes on one continent rock countries oceans away; how new standards of human rights developed in Europe transform politics in Latin America or Asia; or how corruption becomes a political lightning rod simultaneously around the world, Dr. Naím analyzes current challenges and opportunities for businesses around the world.

National Correspondent for CBS Radio; Former Foreign Correspondent for CBS News

Dan Raviv is a veritable vault of exciting stories, wrapped in an enthusiastic and charming personality. His exciting, frank “you are there” style and incredible energy have thrilled lecture audiences from coast to coast.

Middle East Adviser to Five Presidents ; Counselor, The Washington Institute for Near East Policy; Special Assistant to President Obama and National Security Council Senior Director for the Central Region, 2009-2011; U.S. Point man on the Peace Process in Both the George H. W. Bush and Bill Clinton Administrations

A Middle East adviser to five presidents, Ambassador Dennis B. Ross most recently served as Special Assistant to President Obama as well as National Security Council Senior Director for the Central Region from 2009-2011. Prior to his service, Ambassador Ross was appointed Special Advisor for the Persian Gulf and Southwest Asia to Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, focusing on Iran. For more than twelve years, Ambassador Ross played a leading role in shaping U.S. involvement in the Middle East peace process and dealing directly with the parties in negotiations. A highly skilled diplomat, Ambassador Ross’s tireless approach accounted for several successful negotiations.

Former Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to President George W. Bush; Author, Courage and Consequence ; Fox News Contributor; Wall Street Journal Columnist; Iconic Political Strategist

With over two decades of experience in the political arena, Karl Rove is an iconic political strategist, whose provocative and robust knowledge of the major political issues of the day have made him one of the most sought-after political pundits of our time.

Sponsors hosting Karl Rove's lectures have reported that he is "provocative, lively and thoughtful" (Nomura) with crowds being "very responsive, often erupting in applause" (Wabash College). Karl Rove has been described by respected author and columnist Michael Barone in US News & World Report as “unique...no Presidential appointee has ever had such a strong influence on politics and policy, and none is likely to do so again anytime soon.” A key member of the President’s inner circle, he has been called a master strategist whose “game has always been long term,” says columnist David Broder, “and he plays it with an intensity and attention to detail that few can match.” He was ranked #1 on both the Telegraph.co.uk’s List of the “50 Most Influential Political Pundits in America” and New York Magazine's “Most Popular Political Pundit Index.” As a Fox News contributor, Karl provides a “genuine feel of inside knowledge,” says David Zurawik, a television critic for The Baltimore Sun.

Collaborator on Benazir Bhutto's Book - Reconciliation: Islam, Democracy and the West (Harper Collins, 2008); Former Executive Director of the Democratic National Committee; President, Mark A. Siegel & Associates and International Public Strategies; Today Show Consultant

Mark Siegel was a close friend, speech writer and confidante of the late Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto for 25 years, and collaborated with her over the last months of her life in a widely acclaimed book entitled Reconciliation: Islam, Democracy and the West (Harper Collins, 2008). Mr. Siegel and Ms. Bhutto completed the book just days before her death with Mr. Siegel receiving the final edits from her on the morning of her assassination. Given Mr. Siegel's unique friendship with Prime Minister Bhutto, and their professional and political partnership over the years, he is now a sought-after voice on her message which is the theme of their book and her final legacy.

Member of President Obama's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness (Present); Member of Secretary Hillary Clinton’s Foreign Affairs Policy Board (Present); Member of President Obama's Economic Recovery Advisory Board (Feb. 2009 - Feb. 2011); National Economic Advisor to President Clinton, 1995-1996 ; First Female Chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisors, 1993-1995 ; First Female Dean, London Business School, 2002-2006; S.K. and Angela Chan Professor of Global Management, Haas School of Business, Present

Dr. Tyson's experience as an established economic advisor, a dean at two top-ranked business schools and a board member of three multinational companies gives her an extraordinary breadth of knowledge to forecast economic trends for specific industry sectors, as well as offer prospects for world trade and international markets.

Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist

A veteran Pulitzer Prize-Winning journalist, Peter Arnett has covered 17 wars and provides incisive analysis on war reporting and America’s foreign policy.

Editor, The American Conservative; Member of The McLaughlin Group; Founder of The American Cause

Pat Buchanan is an influential right-wing commentator and has served as an advisor to three presidents. His voice in U.S. politics powerfully calls for a true conservative movement for America.

Global Currency and Public Policy Strategist, BMO Capital Markets ; Financial Industry Expert ; Author; Contributor, CNBC

As a foreign exchange strategist with over twenty years of financial experience, Andrew Busch knows what it takes to make it in today’s dynamic market.

39th President of the United States; Nobel Peace Laureate

Former President of the United States, President Jimmy Carter is qualified to address almost any vital world issue – particularly human rights.

President of the European Parliament (2002-2004)

Parliament's President Cox is convinced that the 21st century will see Europe's second renaissance, when following the consolidation of a process of unification, the EU will deliver on jobs, peace and stability and enhance the living standards and quality of life of all its people.

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.

Former NBC News Middle East Correspondent & Tel Aviv Bureau Chief ; 5-Time Emmy Award Winning News Correspondent; Author

Martin Fletcher is one of the most respected, and honored, foreign correspondents in the history of American television news. Anderson Cooper has called him the gold standard of war correspondents.

Lloyd M. Bentsen Jr. Chair in Government/Business Relations and Professor of Government; Economist

Noted economist James Galbraith is a frequent commentator on economic and political issues in the media. He regularly writes a column for the Texas Observer and TheStreet.com, as well authoring op-ed pieces for The New York Times and Washington Post.

Juan Trippe Professor of International Trade, Finance and Business at the Yale School of Management; Chairman of Garten Rothkopf; Former Dean of Yale School of Management; Author

Addressing today’s increasingly global economy, Jeffrey Garten explores the timely challenges that corporate executives and other top business leaders will face in the decade ahead. Mr. Garten offers audiences his unique perspective on how to run a business in today’s volatile business climate.

Chairman, Gerson International Law Group

Allan Gerson is an internationally recognized lawyer who has long fought for justice on behalf of terrorism victims and has expanded the boundaries of the law to bring new accountability to state sponsors of terrorism. He brought the first suit against a foreign state (Libya) on behalf of the families of the victims of the Pan Am 103 Lockerbie bombing. He was also instrumental on passage of the 1996 law (The Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act) that makes it possible today for U.S. citizens to hold foreign governments accountable in U.S. courts for complicity in terrorism. His work on behalf of the families of Pan Am flight 103 is chronicled in The Price of Terror (2001, HarperCollins), co-authored with Jerry Adler of Newsweek.

Former Senior Adviser to Ariel Sharon

A high level adviser for Ariel Sharon and prominent analyst on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Dr. Raanan Gissin holds strong and widely respected views on how to bring peace to the Middle East.

President of the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs; Ambassador of Israel to UN

Ambassador Dore Gold is currently the President of the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs. Having served as a close advisor to Israeli Prime Ministers Netanyahu and Sharon, Mr. Gold is an expert on Middle East policy and has written and spoken extensively on the U.S.’ and U.N.’s capacity to bring peace to the region.

Former Prime Minister of India

Former Prime Minister of India Inder Kumar Gujral laid the groundwork for the reduction of tensions with Pakistan by unilaterally easing travel and visa restrictions for Pakistanis visiting India. He also said that India, as by far the largest nation in the region, can afford to be generous with its neighbors, several of which have long resented domineering attitudes that they believe have inspired India in the past.

Host of HBO’s REAL Sports With Bryant Gumbel

Bryant Gumbel is a highly respected broadcaster and has spent several decades hosting a wide variety of shows, giving him a birds-eye view not only of the media but also of American sports culture.

Social and Political Commentator; Author, What You Need to Know About: Terror

What is terror? How and why do terrorists select targets? Isn’t terror a legitimate political response? Are all terrorists Muslims? What do we know about terrorist organizations? Do terrorists have an ethical code? What is jihad? What is a shaheed? What does Islam say about suicide? Do terrorists hate the United States because the US is a friend of Israel? These and other basic questions have been clearly and concisely compiled and answered in What You Need to Know About: Terror, written by Micah Halpern, a well-known social and political commentator, educator and historian.

Executive Vice Chairman, Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations

Mr. Hoenlein has written and lectured across the US and abroad on international relations, Israel and Middle East affairs, Soviet and World Jewry, terrorism, the American Jewish community, and intergroup relations. He has traveled extensively in East and West Europe, Central Asia, the Persian Gulf, North and South Africa, Australia and the Middle East, meeting with leading government officials, world leaders and Jewish communities.

Founding Anchor, CNN Reliable Sources; Veteran Journalist (CBS, NBC and The New York Times); Former State Department Spokesperson

Bernard Kalb has traveled the globe for more than three decades as a correspondent covering world affairs for CBS News, NBC News and The New York Times.

Scientist in the Russian Space Program; Naturalized American Citizen and Son of the Soviet Leader; Senior Fellow, Thomas J. Watson Institute for International Studies, Brown University

As a Senior Fellow at the Watson Institute for International Studies, Dr. Khrushchev focuses his research on the Former Soviet Union's transition form a centralized to a decentralized society, as well as its transformation from a central to a market economy and its international security during this transition. One of his points of interest is the creation of a criminal society in Russia, as a consequence of the mistakes in the early stages of market reformation. He is also interested in the history of the Cold War and the turning points in the relations between the US and the Soviet Union in the Khrushchev, Eisenhower, and Kennedy periods. Another focus of Dr. Khrushchev's interests is the history of Soviet missiles and space development, in which he played an active role, from 1958-68.

Professor of Economics, Boston University; Research Associate, National Bureau of Economic Research; President, Economic Security Planning, Inc.

Professor Kotlikoff speaks to hundreds of U.S. and foreign businesses and government groups about economic and policy issues, both domestic and foreign. His talks cover a very wide range of micro and macro topics.

Former OPEC Secretary-General and Nigerian Minister of Petroleum

Dr. Lukman was elected as OPEC Secretary-General on Nov. 22, 1994 to a three-year term to succeed Dr. Subroto of Indonesia. Lukman was re-elected to a second three-year term as OPEC Secretary-General in 1997. Later he became a key force behind a price defense deal reached by Iran and Saudi Arabia in early 1999. He then served for four years as Special Adviser on Petroleum and Energy Matters to Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and then as Nigerian Minister of Petroleum from 2008-2010 resigning his post in March 2010.

Anchor, MSNBC's The Andrea Mitchell Hour; NBC News' Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent

With a Washington insider’s perspective, Andrea Mitchell deftly examines global conflicts, foreign policy and international leaders, adding insight into political issues that resonate globally.  

Vice President of the United States; U.S. Ambassador to Japan; U.S. Senator; Attorney General for the State of Minnesota.; 1984 presidential candidate for the Democratic Party; Partner, Dorsey & Whitney LLP

U.S. Senator, Vice President of the United States, Presidential Candidate and Ambassador to Japan, Walter Mondale has commanded a seat on the world’s center state since 1964 when he assumed Hubert H. Humphrey’s senate seat.

Near East Expert; Former Assistant Secretary of State for Near East and South Asian Affairs

Richard W. Murphy has followed Near Eastern developments for over 40 years, which has made him a sought-after expert in discussing issues facing the region. He is a frequent commentator for NPR, CNN, BBC and FOX News. He has written for the New York Times, Washington Post, Financial Times, The International Herald Tribune and the Christian Science Monitor.

Former Governor of Hong Kong; Former European Commissioner for External Relations (EU Secretary of State); Chancellor, University of Oxford

Christopher Patten draws on his experience as Great Britain's last Governor of Hong Kong and as the Former European Commissioner of External Affairs (the EU's Secretary of State) to address current world political and economic topics.

Former Prime Minister of Jamaica

As the longest serving Prime Minister in Jamaica, Percival Patterson presided over the unprecedented modernization and transformation of the economic, social and political landscape of the country.

Senior Associate and Director, China Program, Carnegie Endowment; Expert in China, Taiwan, East Asia and Democracy

The rise of China as a great power is one of the most important developments in the twenty-first century. But despite dramatic economic progress, China’s prospects remain uncertain. Minxin Pei examines the sustainability of the Chinese Communist Party’s reform strategy—pursuing pro-market economic policies under one-party rule. Combining powerful insights with empirical research, Minxin Pei offers a provocative assessment of China’s future as a great power.

Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Policy; U.S. Senator (1969-1980)

Richard Perle is called upon frequently to advise members of Congress and to testify at congressional policy hearings. He has lectured at many colleges and universities including Harvard, Columbia, Princeton, the University of Chicago, the University of California, Georgetown, Amherst, Dartmouth, Tulane, Rice, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Oxford University.

Director of the Middle East Forum; Taube Distinguished Visiting Fellow, Hoover Institution of Stanford University; Board Member of the U.S. Institute of Peace; Prizewinning Columnist

Daniel Pipes was one of the few analysts who understood the threat of militant Islam ("Unnoticed by most Westerners," he wrote in 1995, "war has been unilaterally declared on Europe and the United States"). The Boston Globe writes that "If Pipes' admonitions had been heeded, there might never have been a 9/11." The Wall Street Journal has called him "an authoritative commentator on the Middle East." MSNBC describes him as one of the best-known "Mideast policy luminaries."

Former Israeli Ambassador to the United States; Israel's Chief Negotiator with Syria, 1992-1995

Ambassador Itamar Rabinovich is Israel's former Ambassador to the United States and former Chief Negotiator with Syria in the mid 1990's. He is the incumbent of the Ettinger Chair of Contemporary Middle Eastern History of Tel Aviv University. He has recently completed an eight year term as the University's President. He is currently a distinguished Global Professor at New York University and Visiting Professor at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

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.

AIPAC’s Foreign Policy Director for 23 Years ; Named "the Brains Behind AIPAC" and "Architect of its Increasing Clout" by the Washington Post ; Former RAND corp. Senior Analyst and Brandeis University Political Scientist ; Defendant in the Notorious Espionage Act Case

A legendary Washington insider and one of the architects of the U.S.-Israel strategic alliance during a quarter century at AIPAC, Steve Rosen was also the target of a failed prosecution for classified information leaks with all charges dropped. The New York Times called him "brilliant, energetic, and influential." Moment said he was "the go-to man on any policy issue." The Nation called him "a genius of political strategy, the Karl Rove of Jewish-American politics."

Editor and Publisher, Jewish Week

Rosenblatt's weekly column in The Jewish Week, "Between The Lines" has won first-place awards from the New York State Press Association, and is syndicated each week by the Jewish Telegraphic Agency to Jewish newspapers throughout the country. Rosenblatt has been a contributor to the Los Angeles Times Op Ed page and has served on the boards of the American Jewish Press Association and the Jewish Student Press Service. He is also a founder of the Gralla Fellows Program at Brandeis University for Journalists in the Jewish Press, and is chairman of the Fund for Jewish Investigative Journalism.

Freedom Fighter Against Apartheid; Judge, Constitutional Court of South Africa (Ret.) 1994- 2009

Internationally acclaimed Freedom Fighter and Champion of Human Rights regardless of race, creed or sexual orientation,  A pillar of the international law community, Albie Sachs has helped shape our modern world, both in South Africa and around the world. 

“First Lady of the World"

A world figure and widow of late Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, Madame Jehan Sadat has been active in the women’s movement both in her own country and throughout the world. She was responsible for the Egyptian Civil Rights Law that resulted in more rights for women. A long time political activist, Madame Sadat worked closely with her husband in his quest for peace.

Founder and CEO, Women for Women International

Every once in a while a new voice emerges with the power to change the world. Zainab Salbi, activist and social entrepreneur, is such a voice. Ms. Salbi inspires and moves audiences with the passion of her personal experience as a survivor of war and her dedication to rebuilding communities after war, one woman at a time.

Former Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany; European Economy Expert

Chancellor Schmidt reflects on the geopolitical order as a derivative of international economic conditions. His insights into the EMU and recent economic crises around the world help corporations and governments secure their investments for the decades ahead.

National Security Advisor - Ford and Bush Administrations; Founder and President of the Forum for International Policy

General Brent Scowcroft’s extensive military and political career has afforded him unique insight into major foreign policy issues.

Silicon Valley Success Story; Undersecretary for Technology, 1999 – 2001

More than just a technologist, businesswoman or global leader, Dr. Cheryl Shavers is an inspiration, a role model for individuals and organizations faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.

Expert, Social Security and Retirement; Chairman of Carriage Oaks Partners LLC

Perhaps the most trusted voice on Social Security and retirement finance reform both in the United States and many other regions of the world, William Shipman enlightens audiences on a potential crisis of international proportions that is going largely unnoticed. The rapid increase of the elderly population, combined with support systems that are unprepared to handle this unprecedented shift, have put our living standards, international strategic relationships and our very way of life in jeopardy.

President and Chief Global Economist, Decision Economics, Inc.

Time magazine said, "Anyone who thinks that economists practice a dismal science has never been treated to the vivid commentaries of Allen Sinai." Dr. Sinai is frequently called on by economic leaders and the media to provide commentary on economic issues.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, 1997-2001; Clinton Administration Foreign Policy Advisor; 3rd Ranking Official of National Security Council at the White House, 1993-1997

Ms. Soderberg brings her to the table her breadth of experience in the formation of US foreign policy, including promoting peace in Northern Ireland, participating in a United Nations mission to Indonesia and East Timor, negotiating key United Nations resolutions regarding the Middle East and Africa, conducting shuttle diplomacy in Latin America, assisting in the development of the Clinton Administration’s policy of political economic normalization with Vietnam and advising President Clinton on policies regarding China, Japan, Russia, Angola, the Balkans, Haiti, as well as several conflicts in Africa. With nearly twenty years of experience in the formation of U.S. foreign policy, Nancy Soderberg has been involved in most of the conflicts around the world and speaks and writes regularly on national security issues. Ms. Soderberg is highly qualified to discuss today’s crises in Iraq, Afghanistan, North Korea, Iran, Africa and the Middle East and what effects peacekeeping, terrorism, nonproliferation, and the United Nations can have on the outcomes.

Foremost U.S. Expert on Terrorism; Author of Terror In The Name of God: Why Religious Militants Kill

In her speeches, Stern connects many of the factors that link religious terrorists-from members of al Qaeda to Timothy McVeigh. She finds that the majority who join these groups feel disenfranchised and left behind by modernity. Their response to the “God-shaped hole” in modern culture is to turn their anger on those whom they hold responsible for their feelings of emptiness and failure. Stern warns that in the battle against the New World Order, disparate groups with seemingly conflicting agendas may join forces against what they perceive as the common enemy: globalization and Western culture. Yet she also points out that military solutions will not bring down religious terrorism and, in many cases, it will only work as a rallying cry to strengthen the terrorists’ cause.

Recipient of the 2001 Nobel Prize in Economics; Chief Economist and Senior Vice-President, The World Bank, 1997-2000; Chairman, U.S. Council of Economic Advisors, 1995-1996; Professor, Columbia University and Chair of Columbia University's Committee on Global Thought; Author of the New York Times Bestseller, Globalization and Its Discontents

Stiglitz helped create a new branch of economics, "The Economics of Information," exploring the consequences of information asymmetries and pioneering such pivotal concepts as adverse selection and moral hazard, which have now become standard tools not only of theorists, but of policy analysts. He has made major contributions to macro-economics and monetary theory, to development economics and trade theory, to public and corporate finance, to the theories of industrial organization and rural organization, and to the theories of welfare economics and of income and wealth distribution. In the 1980s, he helped revive interest in the economics of R&D. His work has helped explain the circumstances in which markets do not work well, and how selective government intervention can improve their performance.

Founder and Principal, Straszheim Global Advisors; Vice Chairman, Milken Institute; Former Chief Economist, Merrill Lynch

Combining an expertise in global economics with an emphasis on China, Donald Straszheim is one of the world’s foremost economists. Widely quoted in the major business and financial media, has been a regular analyst on CNBC, CNN and FOX and a frequent network guest. His perspectives on global economies, business conditions and financial markets are highly sought after by governments and corporations worldwide.

International Bestselling Author

International Bestselling Author, Allan Topol, is a graduate of Carnegie Institute of Technology who majored in chemistry, abandoned science and obtained a law degree from Yale University. As a partner in a major Washington law firm, he practices international environmental law. He writes a weekly column for the on-line newspaper Military.com. An avid wine collector and connoisseur, he has traveled extensively, researching dramatic locations for his novels, some of which are portrayed in Spy Dance, Dark Ambition, Conspiracy and now in Enemy Of My Enemy.

Correspondent, CNN

Gary Tuchman has covered numerous stories for CNN. In 2003, Tuchman reported as an embedded journalist with the U.S. Air Force during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The day after the September 11, Tuchman began reporting from Ground Zero in New York City, providing constant updates and detailed descriptions of the devastation. Additionally, he covered the tragedy of the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster, the D.C.-area sniper case, the anthrax scare, the Alaska Airlines crash, the Egypt Air crash, the crash of TWA Flight 800 and the capture of the Unabomber.

Co-Founder, Harvard’s Program on Negotiation; Co-Founder, International Negotiation Network; Best Selling Author

For the past 30 years, William Ury has served as a mediator, writer and speaker working with conflicts ranging from family feuds to boardroom battles to ethnic wars in the Middle East. Whether you're interested in reaching agreement in your everyday life or at the global level, Mr. Ury’s goal is to provide you with resources, insights, and inspiration. Based on his many years of experience as well as content from some of his bestselling and award-winning books, Mr. Ury can addresses the following topics in addition to others.  For more information visit www.williamury.com.

Former U.S. Ambassador to Hungary

George Herbert Walker III, former U.S. Ambassador to Hungary, has pursued a lifelong interest in politics, international relations, and business.

Pulitzer Prize Winning Author; Chairman, Cambridge Energy Research Associates

A highly respected authority on international economics, globalization, politics and energy, Daniel Yergin shares with audience’s unmatched insight into the world today. Compelling and informative, his presentations capture the issues, while grounding them in his audiences’ context.

2006 Nobel Prize Winner; Founder, Grameen Bank; Member of Board of Directors of UN Foundation

What if you could harness the power of the free market to solve the problems of poverty, hunger, and inequality? To some, it sounds impossible. But Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus is doing exactly that. As founder of Grameen Bank, Yunus pioneered microcredit, the innovative banking program that provides the poor — mainly women — with small loans they use to launch businesses and lift their families out of poverty. Muhammad Yunus’s vision is the total eradication of poverty from the world. "Grameen," he says, "is a message of hope, a program for putting homelessness and destitution in a museum so that one day our children will visit it and ask how we could have allowed such a terrible thing to go on for so long." This work is a fundamental rethink on the economic relationship between the rich and the poor, their rights and their obligations. The World Bank recently acknowledged that "this business approach to the alleviation of poverty has allowed millions of individuals to work their way out of poverty with dignity." Credit is the last hope left to those faced with absolute poverty. That is why Muhammad Yunus believes that the right to credit should be recognized as a fundamental human right. It is this struggle and the unique and extraordinary methods he invented to combat human despair that Muhammad Yunus recounts here with humility and conviction. It is also the view of a man familiar with both Eastern and Western cultures — on the failures and potential for good of industrial countries. It is an appeal for action: we must concentrate on promoting the will to survive and the courage to build in the first and most essential element of the economic cycle — Man.

Global Political-Economic Expert ; Professor at the Graduate School of Business at the University of Chicago; Author

"All politics is local," former House Speaker Tip O'Neill once famously remarked and the adage holds true for economics as well, even in the era of globalization, according to Marvin Zonis, global consultant and University of Chicago professor. In a world where local markets are increasingly interconnected, events in one small country can easily snowball to have a worldwide impact and while powerful corporations may be able to plant their flags around the world, they still need to deal with the locals. Factors like political corruption or ethnic conflicts can undermine a country's chances for prosperity, but they can be countered by strong leadership and stable institutions. In order to "do globalization better," business leaders need to recognize the importance of local political dynamics.