the agora Circle
A collaborative giving initiative empowering the sustainable growth of the JES.
The Agora Circle is a community of our most engaged and visionary supporters who believe in the JES mission to promote civic enlightenment and drive community progress through education, dialogue, and leadership. Inspired by the ancient Greek "agora"—the gathering place for discussion and ideas—the Agora Circle plays a vital role in sustaining the JES' impact. Members of the Circle provide crucial annual support that expands access to programming and ensures that the JES can continue offering exceptional lectures, research, publications, and special events to the Erie region and beyond.
By joining the Agora Circle, our members directly support:
- Year-round lecture series, research initiatives, publications, and leadership programs.
- Digital access to JES programming through professional recording, livestreaming, and online content delivery.
- The recruitment of nationally and internationally renowned speakers and thought leaders to engage our community.
- Regional civic engagement efforts that promote informed discussion and community growth.
- Investments in the future of the JES through innovation, accessibility, and outreach initiatives.
Agora Circle members receive special benefits, including exclusive invitations to member-only receptions and discussions, recognition opportunities, and the knowledge that they are directly investing in the intellectual and civic vitality of the Erie region.
We invite you to join the Agora Circle and help shape the conversations that shape our community.
To learn more or join the Circle, please contact Christine Gerlock, 814.459.8000, gerlock@jeserie.org
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2025 Agora Circle Benefits
Individual: $1,500 | With Guest: $2,500
- Admission to our Agora Circle Celebration to recognize and thank the Agora Circle Founders prior to our Spring Term kick-off event on Monday, April 7, 2025.
- Admission to a private luncheon and lecture, "What is History?" with Robert Garland renowned historian and professor at Colgate University on Monday, July 7, 2025 during his week-long Summer Residency with the JES.
- A signed copy of Dr. Garland’s latest book, What to Expect When You’re Dead: An Ancient Tour of Death and the Afterlife
- Admission to TWO private receptions with esteemed speakers in the fall during Global Summit XVII.
- Exclusive access to a special program during the JES Residency of historian and political analyst Jay Cost, the week of August 11, 2025
- Invitation to participate in the JES Board of Trustees board retreat workshop on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
- Recognition in our Annual Report.
- Recognition on our Agora Circle Members plaque next to the Agora painting in the Jefferson Hall.
- Quarterly written communication from JES leadership about ongoing progress.
Stay tuned for more events to come!
