Programs
The Jefferson Educational Society offers different programs during the Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall terms. Some of the past and current programs include the Global Summit, Metro 100, Brock Institute Lectures, Community Conversations, Jefferson Satellite programs, and other special programs.
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Publications
The JES, it's writers, researchers, and Scholars-in-Residence publish various books, essays, journals, quick timely reads, book-notes, and reports about a wide range of topics. In 2022, the writers produced a record year, creating more than 140 publications.
Enjoy a Reading
Membership
By becoming a member of the Jefferson, you will have access to benefits including: priority registration of events; advance notice of programs and lectures; an increased number of free events available to members; invitations to special member events; and subscriptions to JES publications.
Become a MemberFairview Satellite: Into the Breach: The Union Timberclads on the Mississippi River in 1861 During the Civil War
Brian Graff At the beginning of the Civil War in 1861, The Union Navy had no warships on the Mississippi River. The War Department bought three civilian paddlewheelers and conve... Read More »Corry Satellite: 'Men in Crisis: Class, Despair, and Politics' – Exploring a New Series and Why It Matters
Jeff Bloodworth, Ph.D. In March 2025, the Jefferson Educational Society launched a new publication series, "Men in Crisis: Class, Despair, and Politics." The series aims to focus on modern m... Read More »Exploring the Intersection of Government and Nonprofits: Where We have Been, Where We are Now
Adam Bratton , MPA What is the current relationship between government and nonprofits? How has it evolved over time? Where might it be headed? Join Adam Bratton, executive director of th... Read More »Advancing Community Progress in Erie, Pennsylvania
The Jefferson Educational Society (JES) of Erie is a nonprofit institution where conversations commence and ideas take action. We were founded to promote civic enlightenment and community progress for the Erie Region through the study, research, and discussion of those ideas and events that have influenced the human condition. The Society offers courses, seminars, and lectures which explain the central ideas that have formed the past, assist in exploring the present, and offer guidance to enhance the civic future of the Erie Region.
JES to host President Barack Obama at Global Summit 2025
Dr. Robert Garland to return for second residency
Football powerhouse Jim Kelly joins JES Global ...
JES continues 2025 programming
