Tony and Emmy Award-Winning Actress; Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, 1993-1997; Four-Time Oscar Nominee

Renowned actress Jane Alexander found herself in the role of a lifetime when President Bill Clinton appointed her head of the ever-embattled National Endowment for the Arts. Ms. Alexander is charming, honest, and convincingly passionate on why we need art, and why the government should support the arts.

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.

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.

Noted Human Rights Lawyer; Campaigner for Women’s Equality; Wife of Tony Blair

Named one of the most powerful women in the world by Forbes magazine, Cherie Blair is a noted British attorney, human rights advocate, and the wife of Prime Minister Tony Blair. She offers illuminating commentary on the issues of balancing family and career, human rights for women and children, charity and public service, and law.

Author, Now It's My Turn: A Daughter’s Chronicle of Political Life; Director of Vice Presidential Operations for Bush-Cheney 2004

A key adviser on two presidential campaigns with a lifetime of first-hand political experience, Mary Cheney offers a unique and compelling perspective on American politics.

Senior Advisor for Comcast Corporation, Present; Pentagon Spokeswoman, 2001-2003; Author, Lipstick on a Pig; ABC Commentator

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.

Emmy Award-Winning Journalist; News Anchor, NBC’s Today Show; Anchor, Dateline NBC

News anchor and esteemed journalist Ann Curry, of NBC’s Today, is one of the most visible and personable female broadcasters in America. Her belief in the power of knowledge and the importance of service echo through her work, allowing her to impact millions of lives daily.

Wife of Vicente Fox, President of Mexico, 2000-2006; President, Vamos México Foundation, 2003-Present

A powerful voice on women’s issues and social responsibility, Marta de Fox has played an active role in Mexico’s democratization, and offers audiences unique insight into the challenges facing Latin America. She has also dedicated her life to public service and to fostering social investment and responsibility.

Author, Lighting the Way

Capturing the social perseverance of the extraordinary women whose impact on contemporary America resonates today, Karenna Gore Schiff encourages audiences to take responsibility for helping those in need and to bring grace, independence of mind, and optimism to the challenge.

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.

International Human Rights Advocate

Ms. Jagger has spent much of her life visiting war zones and refugee camps and denouncing human rights violations. She has provided a voice to the voiceless and hope to the hopeless.

Artistic Director, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater; Kennedy Center Honoree (1999); National Medal of Arts Winner (2001); Emmy Award Winner

Judith Jamison - American dancer, Choreographer and Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater - is a legendary icon in the world of the performing arts. Ms. Jamison, who as a dancer with the troupe, from 1965 to 1980, became the most stellar of modern dance's female performers, was appointed Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in December 1989 at the request of her mentor, Alvin Ailey, who personally chose her to succeed him before his untimely death. In her two decades at the helm of one of the most respected dance companies in America, Ms. Jamison has successfully kept the Alvin Ailey brand alive. In 2009, Ms. Jamison was listed in the TIME 100: The World’s Most Influential People, and honored at "The BET Honors," an event that recognizes the lives and achievements of leading African-American luminaries.

First African American Woman in Space; Founder and President of Two Medical Technology Companies

Dr. Mae C. Jemison broke more than the sound barrier in 1992 when she climbed aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour and became the first woman of color to travel into space - she made history! Now, Founder and President of two technology companies, the space flight was just one of a series of accomplishments for this dynamic woman.

“Senator Ted Kennedy's Closest Confidante, in Politics and Life” – The New York Times ; Passionate Advocate for Passage of Historic Health Care Legislation ; Co-Founder and Trustee of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate ; Trustee, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Described by The New York Times as the late Senator Edward Kennedy's “closest confidante in politics and life,” Victoria Reggie Kennedy shared her husband’s passion and dream of passing the long-elusive health care reform legislation. That dream was realized on Sunday, March 21, 2010 with the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, a landmark moment that turned her husband’s dream into reality. “As Ted Kennedy said, across the decades, in the best and in the most discouraging hours, health care was the cause of his life,” said Vicki. “Tonight that cause becomes more than a dream, it becomes America’s commitment…Ted knew we would get here, and all of us who loved him and shared his hopes for America are deeply grateful.” Mrs. Kennedy worked tirelessly with White House and congressional leadership to lobby for this historic health care bill. She told members of Congress “You know no piece of legislation is perfect. But it's so important to make the progress, get the ball rolling. Teddy always talked about not letting the perfect be the enemy of the good.”

Health Care Professional; Daughter of Holocaust Survivors

Hadassah Lieberman charms audiences with stories from her extraordinary life, focusing on women’s health issues, assisting nonprofit organizations, and promoting international understanding. Ms. Lieberman successfully tailors her remarks to fundraising objectives that enable an organization to reach their goals.

2004 Nobel Peace Laureate; Founder, The Green Belt Movement; Visiting Fellow at Yale University’s Global Institute for Sustainable Forestry

In 2004 Dr. Maathai was awarded the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize for her “contribution to sustainable development, democracy and peace,” stemming from her work on community empowerment and environmental conservation. She is the first African woman to receive this prestigious award.

International Bestselling Author, The Trouble with Islam Today: A Muslim's Call for Reform in Her Faith; Acclaimed PBS Filmmaker, Faith Without Fear; Director, Moral Courage Project at New York University; Columnist, New York Times Syndicate; The Signature Voice of the Obama Generation

Irshad Manji, Bestselling Author of The Trouble with Islam Today: A Muslim’s Call for Reform in Her Faith and Professor of Leadership at New York University, is a signature voice of the Obama generation— global in outlook, practical in approach and dedicated to finding common ground in a fractured world. She has transformed her personal journey into a riveting story that helps others to live with courage. Through her Moral Courage Project at NYU, Prof. Manji is teaching a new generation of global citizens to challenge conformity, even at the price of backlash. Her inspiring message: Any of us can change the world by daring to ask questions -- out loud. Whether addressing corporations, congregations, or colleges, Irshad Manji gives game-changing guidance that individuals can take away and apply to their lives. She does it all with personality, passion and humor.

Secretary of Labor, 1991-1993; Chair of Deloitte & Touche’s Council on the Advancement of Women

Credited with preparing the workforce for the 21st century, Secretary Martin brings breadth and authority to any debate on issues affecting the modern American workforce.

Former President of NARAL Pro-Choice America

For nearly 20 years, she served as President of NARAL Pro-Choice America, catapulting the organization to prominence as the nation’s premier reproductive rights group. Under Kate’s leadership, NARAL Pro-Choice America transformed the political debate and positioned a woman’s freedom to choose as a fundamental American liberty.

U.S. Representative from New York (1990 – 1997); Senior Principal, Bracewell & Giuliani LLP

Susan Molinari is a risk-taker and trailblazer for liberal Republicans and working mothers. A U.S. Representative from 1990 to 1997, Ms. Molinari quickly became “one of the most distinctive Members of the House” and “one of the most visible voices for her party” according to the authoritative Almanac of American Politics. As a result, after just four years in Washington, and just weeks after the election of the first GOP House majority in 40 years, Ms. Molinari was elected by her colleagues to the eight-person Republican Majority Leadership, making her the highest-ranking woman in the Congress.

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.

White House Press Secretary, 1993-1994; Political Analyst and Commentator; Contributing Editor, Vanity Fair; Author, Why Women Should Rule the World

Armed with sharp political insights and a refreshingly irreverent sense of humor, Dee Dee Myers charms and enlightens audiences of every political persuasion with her insightful behind-the-scenes look at Washington, national politics and the major players in both.

14th Surgeon General of the U.S. Public Health Service; 13th New York State Health Commissioner; UNICEF Special Representative for Health and Nutrition, 1993-1996

Dr. Antonia C. Novello’s appointment as the 14th Surgeon General of the U.S. Public Health Services was historic as she was the first woman and first Hispanic to hold this highly esteemed position. Dr. Novello has been an inspiration in all of her government positions - always pushing the envelope on educating the public. Sample Dr. Novello delivers inspiring and informative keynotes on issues relating to healthcare and health disparities, women’s issues and leadership, and issues pertaining to the Hispanic community.

World Famous Singer, Actress, and Television Star; Spokeswoman for the American Diabetes Association; Ordained Minister

Della Reese is a name synonymous with entertainment par excellence. Known for her unique singing style and her starring roles on some of the most successful television programs of the last thirty years, Ms. Reese always delivers an engaging and inspirational message. In 2002, she announced that she suffers from Type-2 Diabetes. Today, Ms. Reese acts as spokeswoman for the American Diabetes Association, traveling the United States to raise awareness about the disease.

Political Analyst for ABC News; NPR Senior News Analyst; Former Co-Anchor, This Week with Sam Donaldson & Cokie Roberts

Long-time ABC Congressional Correspondent and leading political pundit, Cokie Roberts is one of the most esteemed and brilliant broadcast journalists of our time.

Iranian-American Journalist Falsely Accused and Imprisoned in Iran; Author, Between Two Worlds: My Life and Captivity in Iran; Co-wrote the film No One Knows About Persian Cats

A political prisoner caught in the middle of a dramatic political struggle between Iran and the U.S., Iranian-American journalist Roxana Saberi captured the attention of the world when reports surfaced of her imprisonment in Iran. Abducted by four men early one morning in January 2009 and placed in solitary confinement, Ms. Saberi, who was working as a freelance journalist in Tehran, contributing to NPR and the BBC among others, was falsely accused of spying for the United States. Ms. Saberi, a former Miss North Dakota, who led an all-American life before moving to Iran was sentenced to eight years in prison. Her battle for freedom would last 100 days before an appeals court released her following an international uproar. In the midst of reaching out to Iran to start a dialogue after decades of political deadlock, the Obama administration harshly criticized Iran over her imprisonment and there was speculation that Iranian President Ahmadinejad intervened on her behalf as a diplomatic overture.

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT!  Click HERE and watch her interview on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart and watch Roxana's captivating 2-part interview with Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America. (Part 1 and Part II).

Writer, Editor, Feminist Activist; Co-Founder, National Women’s Political Caucus; Co-Founder, Ms. Magazine

A devoted activist and writer, Gloria Steinem is undeniably one of the most important voices of the modern feminist movement.

Member of President Obama's Economic Advisory Panel; 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

Laura D’Andrea Tyson is a member of President Obama's Economic Advisory Panel, where she is an integral part of a team of advisors assessing the measures needed to get the U.S. economy back on track. As a speaker, Dr. Tyson articulates global economic issues and the real world challenges and solutions facing world markets today. Offering unfailingly frank, direct and principled advice, Dr. Tyson forecasts economic trends for specific industry sectors, prospects for world trade and international markets.

ABC News correspondent; Host of The Barbara Walters Specials ; Creator, Co-host and Executive Producer of ABC Daytime’s The View

Barbara Walters’ ground-breaking exclusive interviews with world leaders and her enterprising reporting have made her one of the most highly acclaimed journalists on television. In her lively and colorful appearances, Walters shares the insights she acquired from her experiences interviewing with the most important newsmakers in the world today.

Founder & President, Women's Equal Rights Legal Defense and Education Fund (WERLDEF) ; Award-Winning Attorney for her Pioneering Legal Work on Behalf of Women's Rights and Rights for Minorities ; "One of the Nation's Most Effective Advocates of Family Rights and Feminist Causes" – TIME Magazine

Time Magazine called Gloria Allred "one of the nation's most effective advocates of family rights and feminist causes." An active feminist, Gloria Allred founded and is currently serving as President of the Women's Equal Rights Legal Defense and Education Fund (WERLDEF) and she has won countless honors for her pioneering legal work on behalf of women's rights and rights for minorities. Articles by or about Ms. Allred have appeared in publications such as Time Magazine, The New York Times, Ms. Magazine, The American Lawyer, The Daily News, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times, and The London Times.

Academy Award® winning Actress; Director; Ovarian Cancer Survivor

When Kathy Bates speaks, she is applauded not only as an Oscar winner and as one of Hollywood's most sought-after performers but for what might be the most challenging and inspirational role of her career: -- cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in August of 2003, and is now in remission.

Former U.S. Assistant Surgeon General and Senior Global Health Advisor; Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, Georgetown and Tufts University Schools of Medicine

Dr. Blumenthal is an internationally recognized medical expert and leader who has been a major force in bringing important public health issues including global health, women’s health, obesity, and mental illness to increased attention, helping to place them at the top of our nation’s health care agenda.

Founder of Brazile and Associates, LLC; Vice Chair of Voter Registration and Participation at the Democratic National Committee ; “100 Most Powerful Women in Washington, D.C” (Washingtonian) ; “50 Most Powerful Women in America” (Essence)

Donna Brazile is one of the best known, most influential African American women in modern American political life. She was named one of the “100 Most Powerful Women in Washington, D.C.,” by Washingtonian Magazine and one of the “50 Most Powerful Women in America” by Essence Magazine. Ms. Brazile is also a weekly contributor and political commentator on CNN's Inside Politics and American Morning and is the Vice Chair of Voter Registration and Participation at the Democratic National Committee.

Executive Director RAINBOW/PUSH Wall Street Project

A more than 30-year banking veteran, Emma currently serves as the executive director of the Wall Street Project, an organization that challenges corporate America to end the multi-billion dollar trade deficit with minority-owned businesses. The Wall Street Project uses research, education and negotiation to persuade companies to close the gap by hiring and promoting more minorities to corporate boards and awarding more contracts to minority businesses.

Host, Catherine Crier Live; Award-Winning Journalist and New York Times Bestselling Author

Catherine Crier is Texas-bred independent with a spirited passion for justice. She authored The New York Times bestseller The Case Against Lawyers, and her newest book is Final Analysis: The Untold Story of the Susan Polk Murder Case. Her speaking engagements offer a mix of insights, analysis and practical instruction, all from her own unique perspective.

Journalist; Award-Winning Television Producer; Bestselling Author; Breast Cancer Survivor

Linda Ellerbee is a woman of spirit and determination who has enlightened and entertained us for almost 40 years. Revered as a pioneer, a survivor and role model for young and old, Ellerbee charms sell out audiences across the country. She speaks to them about surviving a changing world with her heart intact.

Whether as a keynote speaker, moderator, panelist or host, Linda Ellerbee puts audiences at ease while inspiring them with her gifts of honesty, courage, hope, and laughter. There is a reason Linda Ellerbee gets standing ovations. She is a real person speaking to real people, to the heart from the heart.

Founder, Women’s Action Alliance; President, National Breast Cancer Education and Legal Center; Co-Founder of Ms. magazine with Gloria Steinem

Brenda Feigen, a crusader for feminism and women’s rights, has long guided and shifted the discussion and progress made for women over the last few decades in the U.S. Having survived cancer, Ms. Feigen has much to say on law, health, and women in America.

First Woman Vice-Presidential Candidate

An eloquent defender and constant champion of women’s rights, Geraldine Ferraro was the first woman vice-presidential candidate on a national ticket, setting an example for decades to come.

First Lady; Founder of the Betty Ford Center

Former First Lady Betty Ford has been extremely influential in pushing the nation to fight against chemical dependency, breast cancer, and AIDS. For decades she has provided a shining example of leadership and dedicated public service to her nation.

Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist; Author

The first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize for national reporting, Lucinda Franks has written for the New York Times and recently authored a moving memoir about her father’s life as a spy.

Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist; Syndicated Columnist

A stylish writer with a humanizing touch on any issue, public or personal, Ellen Goodman is an American original, who is widely acclaimed as a voice of sanity, and readers depend on her to help them make sense of our changing world.

Gold Medalist Soccer Player; Inducted into Hall of Fame

Mia is widely recognized as the world's best all-around women's soccer player, with her leadership and passion motivating countless others to pursue their own dreams and go for it.

Medical Columnist & Health Editor for US News and World Report; Former Director of the National Institutes of Health

Dr. Healy makes nationwide speaking and media appearances about our most crucial health issues.

Principal, Koplovitz & Company; Founder, USA Networks; Author and Entrepreneur

An entrepreneur who founded the successful cable TV franchise USA Networks, she is the author of, Bold Women, Big Ideas which she wrote to inform and inspire women entrepreneurs to create wealth through equity. In her speeches, Koplovitz she gives her expert advice on formulating a successful business plan or winning pitch and on sizing up today's investors. She uses examples of pioneering women entrepreneurs and provides inspiration and advice to anyone who wants to launch and finance a new business venture. The glossary and practical list of resources at the end of the book will help beginners get started learning about and finding venture capital. The book is written in a crisp, businesslike tone but with numerous glimmers of humor; current and wannabe entrepreneurs will gain information, understanding and appreciation of how business works in today's economy.

Bestselling Author; Journalist

Bestselling author and journalist, Iris Krasnow speaks on issues related to family, relationships and female empowerment to many national groups, including business organizations, religious institutions, women's groups and colleges and universities.

Emmy Award-winning Comedienne and Actress; Women's Rights Activist

Vicki Lawrence is an avid women’s rights activist, traveling across the country speaking to organizations about her life, career, women’s health and being a woman in a man’s world.

Chair, Feminist Majority’s Campaign

Mavis Leno has established herself as a leader in the efforts to make the restoration of women’s rights a nonnegotiable element of a post-Taliban Afghanistan, and has been at the forefront of insuring that the plight of Afghan women is included in the world’s reporting of the war in Afghanistan.

Tennis Champion; 59 Grand Slam Wins; Founder, Rainbow Endowment

A champion on and off the court, Martina Navratilova is not only a tennis legend, but an inspirational leader who demonstrates wit, candor and sheer motivation.

Actress; Social 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.

“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.

Congresswoman, Colorado; President, Association of American Publishers

Pat Schroeder represented Colorado’s First Congressional District for 12-terms, passing landmark legislation and becoming a strong advocate for free speech and education. Her dedication to her constituents and their wellbeing was unprecedented.

Pioneering Race Car Driver

One of the first and most successful female Indy Car drivers, Lyn St. James knows what it takes to be determined and strong in a sport dominated by men. In addition to a ground-breaking racing career and active public life as a role model for millions women, Lyn St. James is an active supporter of helping young girls and women succeed in race car driving careers.

NPR Correspondent

One of the most popular broadcasters in public radio, Susan Stamberg is well-known for her conversational style, intelligence, and knack for finding an interesting story.

Former Lt. Governor, Maryland; Education and Health Care Advocate; Humanitarian and Public Servant

A life long advocate for women, children and the underserved, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend’s career has focused on creating public and private partnerships to solve some of the most intractable problems facing America today.

Bestselling Author

TIME Magazine named Rebecca Walker one of the fifty most influential American leaders under forty because of her transformative views on race, gender, sexuality and power.

Pioneer Sex Therapist

Dr. Westheimer never envisaged that one day she would be making such wide use of the mass media to help spread what she has labeled "sexual literacy." However, with her unique style, she has been able to communicate effectively through almost every avenue available.

Nobel Peace Laureate; Founding Coordinator, International Campaign to Ban Landmines

As Founding Coordinator of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, Jody Williams was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1997, along with the ICBL, in recognition of its achievements. The Norwegian Nobel Committee applauded the campaign for changing a ban from "a vision to a feasible reality" and recognized that it offers a model for disarmament. Jody Williams continues to dedicate her life to ending the scourge of dangerous, crippling, and often lethal antipersonnel landmines across the world.