Distinguished Speaker Series
The Distinguished Speaker Series at the Long Beach Terrace Theater begins in October. Tickets to hear insights from some of today’s most influential leaders are on sale now.
This year’s speakers include:
• Oct. 23: Ella Al-Shamahi, a paleoanthropologist, National Geographic explorer and acclaimed BBC presenter, will share discoveries from the front lines of science and explore how curiosity, evolution, and cultural empathy can shape a more connected and enlightened world.
• Nov. 20: Sanna Marin, former prime minister of Finland, will share insights on leading through global upheaval and how young leaders and small nations can help shape a more cooperative world.
• Jan. 15, 2026: Dr. Laurie Santos, Yale professor and expert on the science of happiness and host of the podcast “The Happiness Lab,” will speak about what truly makes people happy.
• Feb. 12, 2026: Pete Buttigieg, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Rhodes Scholar and Navy Reserve veteran, will explore the intersections of leadership, innovation and public purpose, and offer his vision for a more forward-thinking America.
• April 8: Bob Costas, respected voice in American broadcasting, will bring his trademark storytelling to a wide-ranging discussion on sports, culture and current events.
• May 7, 2026: Dr. Anthony Fauci, one of the most influential figures in modern medicine and longtime director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, will offer rare behind-the-scenes insights into the scientific, ethical and political challenges of crisis leadership.
Audience members can interact with each speaker during a moderated question and answer session.
The Distinguished Speaker Series will be held at the Terrace Theater, 300 East Ocean Blvd., in Long Beach. Each program takes place on a weeknight at 7:30 p.m. Series tickets range from $288-$660 for all six evenings. Single tickets are not available. Subscriptions can be purchased online at www.speakersla.com or by calling 310-546-6222.
