In November, the Boston Globe will host its fifth annual Globe Summit, bringing together a diverse group of researchers, entrepreneurs, executives, politicians, and influential change-makers from New England and beyond. This year”s theme, “Revolutionary Ideas,” will guide discussions led by Globe journalists on November 18 and 19 at the House of Blues in Boston.
The first day will focus on health care and leadership, while the second day will address innovation, community, and commerce. Notable speakers include best-selling author Elin Hilderbrand, cultural historian Sarah Lewis, activist and author Bill McKibben, and Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey. The summit will also feature university presidents, executives, and city officials, creating a platform for 30 forums accessible both in-person and via livestream.
Nancy Barnes, editor of the Globe, expressed the significance of the summit, stating it joins crucial sectors to address pressing questions and challenges facing Boston and New England. “It”s one of the most critical roles we play as journalists,” she noted, commending her team for their efforts in organizing the event.
The summit will commence with Barnes leading a discussion on medical research funding alongside Dr. Benjamin Ebert, chief executive of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Dr. Kevin Tabb, president and chief executive of Beth Israel Lahey Health. They will explore the impacts of federal funding cuts on research and the development of life-saving treatments.
On the same day, Jessica Bartlett, a medical reporter for the Globe, will discuss the potential and challenges of in vitro fertilization with Dr. Alan Penzias, a fertility physician. The conversation will delve into the accessibility issues surrounding this crucial medical advancement.
Afternoon sessions will shift to leadership and impact within higher education, climate change, immigration, and the arts. Giulia McDonnell Nieto del Rio, an immigration reporter, will lead a panel examining citizenship and identity amid current political debates. Additionally, three university presidents will join a discussion about the role of education in American democracy.
As the first day wraps up, Ken Casey from the Dropkick Murphys will engage in a conversation about the intersection of art and politics, emphasizing the current urgency for musicians to address societal issues.
The second day will focus on innovation and commerce. Christopher Muther, a travel writer, will converse with JetBlue president Marty St. George about expanding the airline”s operations at Logan International Airport. Following this, Aaron Pressman will discuss the influence of AI on industries with experts from MIT and M&T Bank.
In the afternoon, Shirley Leung, a columnist for the Globe, will speak with Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry”s, regarding corporate activism and maintaining a balance between profit and purpose.
The discussions will continue with a focus on community, featuring a panel on the Boston real estate market, as well as a look into how the city is preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, amidst recent political challenges.
To conclude the summit, Healey and Allison Feaster from the Boston Celtics will share insights on how their experiences as athletes shaped their leadership paths.
