Speaker Programs

Through our speaker programs, scholars, policymakers, experts, and thought leaders share their perspectives on current events, the Constitution, liberty and individual freedom, free enterprise, American history, and other interesting and timely topics. Speakers explore America’s founding ideals, history, and direction forward. Programs are presented in-person, typically at one of The Union League’s locations, and are also streamed online. These programs provide a great outlet for the adult learner who wants to engage and learn more.

Upcoming programs

Program Filters
Library Hour

Library Hour: Jefferson, Madison, and the Forging of a Friendship

Louis Masur recounts the 1791 road trip that forged an enduring friendship between Jefferson and Madison while shedding light on the views of the two future presidents. 

September 23, 2026
The Union League of Philadelphia
Learn more about the Library Hour: Jefferson, Madison, and the Forging of a Friendship program
Public Affairs

Public Affairs: Finding Common Ground

In a time of growing division, Lenny McAllister explores how principled leadership, reflection, and shared purpose can bridge differences, drawing from the themes of his new bookA Venn Diagram of One.  

September 28, 2026
The Union League of Philadelphia
Learn more about the Public Affairs: Finding Common Ground program
Library Hour

Library Hour: George Washington and His World

Centuries of mythmaking have obscured George Washington behind his legend. Join historian Denver Brunsman to explore the world that shaped Washington and the country that he helped shape.  

October 8, 2026
The Union League of Philadelphia
Learn more about the Library Hour: George Washington and His World program
Liberty Series

Liberty Series: Inside the Supreme Court

Michael Gerhardt and Matthew Franck discuss the 2025-2026 Supreme Court’s rulings and key opinions while anticipating next year’s court docket with moderator Sarah Isgur. 

November 3, 2026
The Union League of Philadelphia
Learn more about the Liberty Series: Inside the Supreme Court program
Civil War Round Table

Civil War Round Table: Lincoln’s Legacy & Reconstruction’s Demise

Jon Grinspan examines Lincoln’s legacy during Reconstruction when America strived to fulfill the promise of freedom and equality for millions of newly freed slaves.

November 10, 2026
The Union League of Philadelphia
Learn more about the Civil War Round Table: Lincoln’s Legacy & Reconstruction’s Demise program

About our speaker programs

Speaker programs are presented in four speaker series, Civil War Round Table, The Jack M. Templeton Liberty Series, Library Hour, Public Affairs, and Royal Oak. We host a couple dozen programs each year. Read more below to learn about the different series. Our upcoming speaker programs are highlighted below but visit our calendar to see more. Programs can also be viewed on Founding Forward’s YouTube channel.

Civil War Round Table

Understanding the war that created a “New Birth of Freedom”
The Civil War Round Table provides programs (primarily lectures) about the American Civil War. This includes the political, social, and military aspects of the war, with a focus on Philadelphia and the Union League’s important role in the war.

The Jack M. Templeton Liberty Series

Cultivating an understanding of the principles of liberty

The Liberty Series focuses on the principle of individual liberty, including economic, political, historical, and philosophical. Formats are usually lectures or moderated discussions. This speaker series was named in 2017 after renowned benefactor and philanthropist Jack M. Templeton, to honor his legacy and love of continuing the discussion on these important concepts.

Public Affairs

An informed citizenry is essential to our federal democracy

Public Affairs examines contemporary issues to provide a better understanding of new technologies, business development, international affairs, or cultural and political concerns. Speakers are experts in their field, often practitioners at the highest levels. Formats are usually lectures or moderated discussions.

Library Hour

Educating and inspiring through humanities-based programs
Library Hours are humanities-based programs that focus on a variety of topics including history, art, architecture, science, and travel. These programs focus on authors and recently published books.

Help us inspire tomorrow’s leaders

Founding Forward’s work and mission is made possible through voluntary contributions. We need your support to ensure a future rooted in liberty. Please join our efforts to uphold our democratic system of government with your tax-deductible contribution.