For over 75 years, we have been to bringing the world’s brightest minds to Springfield, creating opportunities for community conversation around compelling topics.

We are proud to be a vital part of the area’s arts and humanities and we have learned how truly powerful bringing world-class speakers can be for our community. Exploring topics in science, government, media, literature, arts, economics and world affairs, we have educated and inspired local audiences for generations by bringing hundreds of fascinating people to downtown Springfield. Notable past speakers include: Doris Kearns Goodwin, Taylor Branch, Justice Stephen Breyer, Paul Rusesabagina, Bill Moyers, Maya Angelou, Ken Burns, Garry Trudeau, Cokie Roberts, Fareed Zakaria, Geoffrey Canada, Leonard Bernstein, Betty Friedan, Ralph Nader, Jeanne Kirkpatrick, David Halberstam, Tom Wolfe, Louis Rukeyser, Senator Hubert Humphrey, Richard M. Nixon… and the list goes on.

We provide unparalleled access to influential speakers, as well as ForumThinks: an exciting initiative that empowers community groups to offer additional programs that complement our speakers and keep the conversation going.

We accomplish this mission because of your support. Thank you!