UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State Forum Speaker Series has announced its lineup for 2025-26. The forum series, modeled after the National Press Club Speaker Series, includes a presentation by an invited speaker, followed by audience questions.
Invited to speak on topics of their choice are Jim Jimirro, former chairman and CEO of the Walt Disney Television and Telecommunications division; Caroline Fitzgerald, founder and CEO of GOALS, a consultancy and media platform dedicated to growing women’s sports; Ryan Newman, managing director at Goldman Sachs; and Pearl Gluck, associate professor of communications and the 2025–26 Penn State Laureate.
The buffet-style luncheons are held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in various venues on the University Park campus. All events are open to faculty, staff, students and the general public. Tickets are $25 each, or $250 for a table of 10, and include a buffet lunch.
Registration is now open for the Fall 2025 speakers. Registration for the spring speakers will be made available at a later date.
Sept. 26: Jim Jimirro, Penn State alum, former chairman and CEO of the Walt Disney Television and Telecommunications division
Jim Jimirro, Penn State alum and former chairman and CEO of the Walt Disney Television and Telecommunications division, will present a talk on Sept. 26 in the Boardroom of the Nittany Lion Inn.
Jimirro played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s television and media presence. Throughout his career, he has earned recognition for his leadership and innovative approaches in entertainment and technology. As a passionate advocate for higher education, his philanthropic work has greatly impacted Penn State, where he continues to make a difference through strategic initiatives and donations that support students, faculty and academic excellence.
During this special event, Jimirro will share his personal journey, experiences in the entertainment world, and his vision for the future of business and media. While the specifics of his talk are still being finalized, this will be an inspiring and thought-provoking opportunity to hear from one of Penn State's most accomplished alumni.
Oct. 13: Caroline Fitzgerald, founder and CEO of GOALS, a consultancy and media platform dedicated to growing women’s sports
Caroline Fitzgerald, founder and CEO of GOALS, a consultancy and media platform dedicated to growing women’s sports, will present a talk on Oct. 13 in the Dean's Hall of the Penn Stater Conference Center. Fitzerald's talk is sponsored by AAUW, the American Association of University Women, of State College.
Fitzgerald is an accomplished entrepreneur and visionary leader who has dedicated her career to empowering individuals through innovative approaches to personal and professional development. As the founder of GOALS, a transformative organization focused on leadership coaching, skill-building, and goal setting, Fitzgerald has worked with a diverse range of clients to help them unlock their full potential. Her work spans industries and has made a significant impact on youth empowerment, corporate leadership, and community development.
Fitzgerald's passion for creating sustainable change is reflected in the programs she leads, helping individuals set and achieve meaningful goals while cultivating skills for lasting success. Her unique perspective on mindset and performance has earned her recognition as a thought leader in personal development.
During this forum event, Fitzgerald will share her insights on leadership, goal-setting, and the power of building a strong foundation for success. While the details of her presentation are still being finalized, this is an exciting opportunity to hear from one of the leading voices in personal and professional growth.
February 2026: Pearl Gluck, associate professor of communications and the 2025–26 Penn State Laureate
Pearl Gluck, associate professor in the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications and the 2025–26 Penn State Laureate, will present a talk in February 2026, with the specific date and venue to be announced.
Gluck, is an award-winning filmmaker, educator and community arts advocate. Her teaching focuses on screenwriting, directing, and producing, helping students discover their unique storytelling voices while balancing creative exploration with technical discipline.
Through her work with Palinka Pictures, Gluck has explored themes of gender, class, faith and autobiographical storytelling. Her films have earned numerous honors. She also has made a significant impact on the arts community through the Centre Film Festival, which she co-founded in 2019. Now entering its seventh season, the festival showcases multigenerational storytelling and regional voices, providing masterclasses and hands-on workshops with visiting filmmakers.
While the specifics of the talk are still being finalized, this will be an opportunity to hear directly from the 2025-26 Penn State Laureate about her experiences as a filmmaker and her plans for the upcoming year.
April 2026: Ryan Newman, Penn State alum and managing director at Goldman Sachs
Ryan Newman, Penn State alum and managing director at Goldman Sachs, will present a talk in April 2026, with the specific date and venue to be announced.
With a distinguished career in the world of finance and investment banking, Newman brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this exciting conversation. As a senior leader at one of the world’s most prestigious financial institutions, Newman has played a key role in advising major clients, navigating global markets, and leading strategic initiatives within the firm. His work spans sectors and industries, giving him a unique perspective on finance, leadership, and the evolving economic landscape.
In addition to his professional success, Newman remains a dedicated Penn State graduate, with a strong commitment to supporting students and emerging leaders.
While the specific topic of his talk is still being finalized, attendees can expect valuable insights into finance, career development, and navigating high-impact industries from someone at the top of the field.
About the Penn State Forum Speaker Series
More information about the series, as well as previous and forthcoming topics and speakers, is available on the Penn State Forum website. Suggestions for future Penn State Forum speakers can be shared with Forum coordinator Cassie Marsh-Caldwell.