The Kerschner Family Series Global Leaders
The Series
The Kerschner Family Series Global Leaders at Colgate, launched in 2007 and sponsored by Colgate's Parents' and Grandparents' Fund, has brought to campus notable individuals whose work has had a global impact. Encounters with these world leaders help students themselves to prepare for lives of leadership — to contribute to the advance of local community and global society alike.
Support the Series
Support this remarkable initiative, and ensure that Colgate students continue to engage with pivotal figures from the world stage. Make your gift today, and indicate Other – Global Leaders Series on your giving form.
Upcoming and Past Leaders
Since its inception in 2007, the series has brought world leaders to the Colgate University campus for lectures, conversations, and performances.
Amanda Gorman
April 5, 2024
Gorman is the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history. She is a committed advocate for the environment, racial equality, and gender justice.
Seating is limited and will be first come, first served. Reserve your tickets.
Maria Ressa
Nobel Peace Prize-winning journalist, free press advocate, CEO of Rappler.com, and author of How to Stand Up to a Dictator, Colgate’s 2023 Summer Reading selection
October 28, 2023
Misty Copeland
Principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre
April 15, 2023
Amal Clooney
Award-winning lawyer specializing in international law and human rights, and Visiting Professor, Columbia Law School
Saturday, March 5, 2022
Jesmyn Ward
Acclaimed author and National Book Award winner
Friday, March 4, 2022
Leon Panetta
Former U.S. Secretary of Defense and co-founder of the Panetta Institute for Public Policy
April 5, 2019
Joe Biden
Former vice president of the United States
March 24, 2017
Shimon Peres
Former president and prime minister of Israel
October 25, 2014
Hillary Clinton
Former secretary of state
October 25, 2013
Bill Clinton
Former president of the United States
October 29, 2010
Garry Kasparov
Chess champion and political activist
April 9, 2010
Tony Blair
Former prime minister of the United Kingdom
October 31, 2009
Colin Powell
Retired general and former secretary of state
April 3, 2009
Stephen Dubner and Steven Levitt
Authors of Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything
April 13, 2007