Co-Founder and Trustee of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate ; “Senator Ted Kennedy's Closest Confidante, in Politics and Life” – The New York Times ; Passionate Advocate for Passage of Historic Health Care Legislation ; Trustee, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts ; Distinguished Professor & Mentor at the Univ. of Massachusetts Boston (Lecturing on Issues of the Day and Mentoring Students)

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 healthcare reform legislation. That dream was realized in 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, healthcare 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 healthcare 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.”

In Her Presentations, Vicki Kennedy inspires and motivates audiences around the country to be active participants in the life of the country and in their own lives. Topics of particular interest are: Healthcare Reform; Patient Advocacy; Engagement in the Political Process; and Empowerment of Women and Girls.

One of Broadcasting's Most Respected and Award-Winning Journalists ; Today Show Contributor, AARP'S "Your Life Calling" with Jane Pauley ; Bestselling Author, Skywriting: A Life Out of the Blue

A respected broadcast journalist for over 30 years, Jane Pauley’s career has spanned morning, primetime and daytime television making her one of the most recognizable personalities in America.  Pauley’s network television career began as co-host of NBC’s Today Show, she was founding co-anchor of Dateline NBC, and host of The Jane Pauley Show. Partnering with AARP, Ms. Pauley is currently contributing to NBC’sToday Show in a series, “Your Life Calling,” which features people who have reinvented the way they work or live.  She is the author of New York Times bestseller, Skywriting: A Life Out of the Blue, a memoir of self-reflection and wellness in which Pauley revealed how medical treatment for hives triggered bipolar depression at the age of 50.  In addition, she is a highly regarded advocate for mental health, children’s health, and education issues.

Advocate, Author, Photographer, Mother; Mental Health Policy Advisor to President Clinton; Founder of Tennessee Voices for Children; Co-Founder and Chair of Families for the Homeless

Named one of the Ten Most Admired Women in the World, Tipper Gore has dedicated her life to public service. She is a hands-on advocate for issues related to mental health, homelessness, and community values.

Co-anchor, NBC News’ TODAY; Emmy Award-Winning Journalist ; Co-anchor, Dateline NBC

Co-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.

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.

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.

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.

OVATION SPOTLIGHT!  Cokie spoke to approximately 800 attendees at the 2010 Yakima Town Hall Speakers Series, and the group reported that "She was absolutely fabulous!" Cokie presented a riveting insider's view of Washington and also followed her presentation with a luncheon Q&A for approximately 250 attendees. Her insider perspective also received the following praise from another event: "Cokie Roberts packed Smith Auditorium and was an unqualified hit.I would recommend her to any organization looking for a speaker who brings both insight and humor to an 'Inside Washington, D.C.' conversation. We enjoyed her immensely." (Willamette University)

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.

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.

Women’s Health Expert; Physician Correspondent for the Today Show; Bestselling Author

An outspoken expert on women’s health care issues and highly sought after guest speaker, Dr. Judith Reichman balances the demands of a thriving Los Angeles practice with requests for her straightforward analysis of complex medical matters.

Physician ; Award-winning Medical Columnist; TV Host; Author

Dr. Holly Atkinson, a physician, professional speaker, medical columnist, TV host and author, promotes health and happiness for all.

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.

Actress; American Heart Association “Go Red for Women” Spokesperson

Lorraine Bracco is best known for her roles as Dr. Jennifer Melfi on the hit HBO TV series, The Sopranos and Karen Hill in Goodfellas.  At the podium, Bracco delivers an inspiring and engaging message about women’s health and wellness issues, such as overcoming depression and heart health.

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.

Author of the Highly Acclaimed Memoir, Sick Girl; Attorney

Author, attorney, and speaker Amy Silverstein was a vibrant 24-year-old Phi Beta Kappa type-A student at NYU law when she learned she had a failing heart; suddenly, it was heart transplant or die. Now, 20 years later, Amy’s new heart is beating strong, despite a 10 year prognosis. Recent award-winning author of the highly acclaimed 2007 memoir Sick Girl, a bold, unforgettable look at full-throttle life-threatening disease, Amy gives audiences a rare and riveting glance at what it takes to succeed – medically and personally – against the odds. She portrays her quest to be a survivor, as well as a prolific author, with wit and insight that inspires us all to grasp onto our lives and our passions, and not to let go – no matter what.

Nationally Renowned Talk Show Host; Bestselling Author

Dr. Laura Schlessinger is a nationally syndicated radio talk show host with an audience of 18 million. Contradicting conventional wisdom that syndicated talk radio was a man's game, Dr. Laura's one-of-a-kind wit and wisdom swept the country in record time. Within four short years she was sharing the top rung of the ladder with none other than Rush Limbaugh and became the first woman to ever win a Marconi Award.

Chief Medical Editor, NBC News

Nancy Snyderman, M.D. is a highly respected figure in the world of healthcare, with intimate knowledge won through first-hand experience in many areas of the field.  A board-certified surgeon and pediatrician, Dr. Snyderman established a reputation as an award-winning medical correspondent for ABC's Good Morning America. Dr. Nancy Snyderman joined NBC News as the Chief Medical Editor in September 2006. Her reports appear on Today, NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams, MSNBC, MSNBC.com and iVillage.

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.

Acclaimed Women’s Health Expert; Bestselling Author

Internationally known for her empowering approach to women’s health and wellness, Dr. Northrup is a leading proponent of medicine and healing that acknowledges the unity of the mind and body, as well as the powerful role of the human spirit in creating health.

Breast Cancer Survivor; Bestselling Author

Beverly Kirkhart is a nationally known bestselling author with 225,000 copies of My Healing Companion in print, and co-author of Chicken Soup for the Surviving Soul: 101 Healing Stories About Those Who Have Survived Cancer. Ms. Kirkhart has chosen to dedicate her life to encourage and inspire others to triumph over adversity in all areas of their lives.

Best-selling Author, Rock What You've Got: Secrets to Loving Your Inner and Outer Beauty from Someone Who's Been There and Back; Columnist and Blogger ; Activist

Best-selling author and philanthropist, Katherine Schwarzenegger is the author of Rock What You've Got: Secrets to Loving Your Inner and Outer Beauty from Someone Who's Been There and Back. At the podium, she discusses body image, women's issues and youth activism.

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT: Watch Katherine's CNN Interview about her book, Rock What You've Got.

Widely Regarded as a Leader in the Global Breast Cancer Movement; Founder, Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

Nancy G. Brinker is regarded as the leader of the global breast cancer movement. Her journey began with a simple promise to her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would do everything possible to end the shame, pain, fear and hopelessness caused by this disease. In one generation, the organization that bears Susan’s name has changed the world.

Bestselling Author; New York Times Journalist

Jane Brody’s widely read and quoted health column, espousing simple and everyday ways to stay fit, appears every Tuesday in The New York Times' Science section and in more than 100 other newspapers around the country.

Industry Leading Salesperson; Bestselling Author; Cancer Survivor; President/Chief Executive Officer, Christine Clifford Enterprises

Christine Clifford's experience taught her how to sell products, services and herself. Now an Award-Winning, Professional Speaker, Bestselling Author of You, Inc. The Art of Selling Yourself and Not Now...I'm Having a No Hair Day!, and Industry-Leading Salesperson, Christine Clifford shares her experiences and successes with audiences worldwide.

President, Elizabeth Edwards Foundation

To honor the life and legacy of her mother Elizabeth Edwards, Cate Edwards created the Elizabeth Edwards Foundation which is dedicated to enriching students and communities through acts of public service, and empowering youth to be advocates for social change.

Elizabeth believed in the power of people to support each other within their communities—and the power to lift each other up. Cate follows the example that her mother, friend, and mentor has set, and her highest hope is to honor Elizabeth Edwards' passion for positive action and compassion for others through the Foundation and its Programs.

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.

Best-Selling Author; Self-Esteem Expert; Motivational Speaker

Jennifer Read Hawthorne is an international speaker and award-winning author specializing in inspirational presentations for women. For more than 20 years, her insights, humor and guidance have provided enthusiastic audiences with both the motivation and the tools to achieve greater personal and professional success.

Bestselling Author

Jan King inspires audiences across America with her motivational talks about overcoming adversity with grace, style and above all humor.

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.

President, Dr. Susan Love Foundation; Pioneer in Women’s Health and Breast Cancer Advocacy

A pioneer in women’s health and breast cancer advocacy, Dr. Susan Love has dedicated her life to the work of cancer prevention, focusing on her passion of educating women across America.

Former Second Lady

The wife of former Vice President Dan Quayle, Marilyn Quayle was one of his closest advisors and got a first-hand look at the inner-workings of Washington.

Actress; Social & Environmental Activist ; Singer

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

Correspondent, NBC News; Bestselling Author

Betty Rollin is a shining inspiration, having survived two difficult fights with breast cancer with the bravery to publicize and write about her experiences for public awareness.

Founder, Champions of Caring; Founder, Embrace Your Legacy ; Daughter of Holocaust Survivors ; Author

Throughout her career, Barbara Greenspan Shaiman has been an educator, businesswoman and social entrepreneur, using her skills to create social change. In 1995, she founded Champions of Caring, a non-profit organization that has empowered over 10,000 youth in the greater Philadelphia region and South Africa to become social activists. Barbara is the daughter of Holocaust survivors. Her mother was incarcerated in Auschwitz and is the sole survivor of a family of sixty-five people, and her father worked for Oskar Schindler. This family legacy, coupled with her professional experience and work with Champions of Caring, have motivated Barbara to help others to live their own legacies by giving back to their communities. She created Embrace Your Legacy to inspire adults of all ages and backgrounds to use their passion and skills to create projects for personal growth and social change.

Clinical Psychologist; School Consultant; Author

Dr. Catherine Steiner-Adair is an internationally recognized clinical psychologist specializing in education, speaking to all types of audiences about her latest research into child development and psychology. She also does public speaking at corporate retreats, for non-profit organizations, and fund raisers.

Emmy-Winning Actress; Comedian

Marcia Wallace is a dedicated and acclaimed actress, having won an Emmy for her role on The Simpsons. A 15-year survivor of breast cancer, Ms. Wallace speaks movingly on her difficult but uplifting story.