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The Learning Society

Since 1988, the Learning Society has brought leading thinkers and doers to the doorsteps of Queens University of Charlotte. Queens students and the Charlotte community have benefitted from the knowledge and experiences of renowned authors, journalists, physicians, scientists, artists, economists, politicians, government officials, scholars, historians, entrepreneurs, business executives, environmentalists, and social activists.

Learn more about the history and what the Learning Society offers members, the community, and students.

2026-2027 Lecture Schedule

Navigating Change, Empowering Progress: A Roadmap for Leaders Committed to Community and Democracy with the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, former Prime Minister of Canada

October 27, 2026
7:00 p.m.

Justin Trudeau

In an era of unprecedented global challenges and technological change, the foundation of progress remains human — our ability to build and strengthen communities through democratic principles and shared values. Drawing from his transformational decade as Canada’s 23rd Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau shares compelling insights on how leaders can foster resilient, inclusive communities that can thrive in times of opportunity and crisis.

Trudeau’s keynote explores the pillars of modern community building and leadership:

  • Leading with inclusive principles and engagement: Breaking down silos and building bridges across political, social, and cultural divides.
  • The current and future state of democracy: Understanding how misinformation and AI are reshaping our democratic institutions and public discourse.
  • Building resiliency: What thoughtful and engaged citizens, leaders, and organizations can do to safeguard democratic values and ensure economic success.
  • Practicing inclusive leadership rooted in fairness and community building while strengthening democratic ideals.

Through powerful stories from the frontlines of governance and crisis management, Trudeau shares how leaders can unlock potential, build bridges, and create environments where innovation flourishes and fosters the democratic ideals that make progress possible. Audiences will leave equipped with practical strategies for building communities that don’t just survive change — but use it as fuel for lasting progress and democratic renewal.

Justin Trudeau’s tenure as Canada’s 23rd Prime Minister coincided with a period of unprecedented global challenge and change.

After leading the third-place Liberal Party of Canada to a historic majority government in 2015, Trudeau set about delivering an ambitious agenda that included appointing Canada’s first gender-balanced cabinet, lifting more than 435,000 children out of poverty through the Canada Child Benefit, launching a national $10-a-day childcare program, advancing Indigenous Reconciliation, and taking robust action to fight climate change, including through policies that attracted investment in clean economic growth and jobs.

Confronted with a series of global economic and security shocks, including Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the COVID-19 pandemic, Trudeau worked to address international and domestic issues through bold, decisive action while continuing to deliver on a progressive vision for Canada. The former Prime Minister has amassed powerful insights into societal resilience, high-stakes international diplomacy, the promotion of shared economic growth, and driving meaningful, lasting change.

Before entering politics, Trudeau studied literature at McGill University, completed the University of British Columbia’s education program, and spent several years teaching in Vancouver. He also served as the Chair of Katimavik, on the board for the Canadian Avalanche Foundation, and as an advocate for youth and the environment, taking part in events and conferences around the country.

Trudeau has received numerous international awards including the Atlantic Council’s Global Citizen Award, National Geographic’s Planetary Leadership Award, and Rotary International’s Polio Eradication Champion Award. The proud father of three, Trudeau delivers presentations that combine pragmatic governance insight with an inspiring vision for stronger communities.

A Conversation with Venus Williams

February 24, 2027
7:00 p.m.

Tickets go on sale November 4 at 11 a.m.

Venus Williams

In this moving and personal conversation with legendary tennis icon Venus Williams, she shares her journey to the top of her game, and how she has become an inspirational leader both on and off the court. As an athlete and entrepreneur, Venus has overcome barriers through resilience, focus, and innovation, built her brand, and continues to give back. She shares her unmatched insights in this memorable talk.

Venus will be joined on stage by Eugene A. Woods, MBA, MHA, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer of Advocate Health, the nation’s third-largest nonprofit integrated health system. Together, they will explore the principles that have shaped their leadership journeys, including leadership, branding, resilience, overcoming obstacles, and the power of innovation and purpose. Through their conversation, attendees will gain personal insights and practical perspectives on navigating challenges, building a lasting impact, and leading with authenticity and determination.

This memorable conversation will offer an inspiring look at what it takes to perform at the highest level, adapt through adversity, build a meaningful brand, and create a legacy both professionally and personally.

Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor
The Sharon at Southpark logo

Plan Your Visit

For event information, including purchasing tickets and parking, please visit our Event Information webpage or join our Interest Form to receive the latest updates and communications.

Membership

Membership is open to anyone interested and is offered on an annual basis. For information about becoming a member, please join our Interest list to receive information about the 2026-2027 membership cycle once it’s released.

Join the Learning Society

Your annual Learning Society membership gives you access to the leading minds of our times while funding unique learning experiences for our Queens students.

Contact Us

Allison Meyer-Tucker
Director, Strategic Partnerships and Events
704-337-2435
meyer-tuckera@queens.edu

Becky Cathcart
Assistant Director, Strategic Partnerships and Events
980-890-7771
cathcartb@queens.edu