Global Summit XVII sponsorship
Support the JES's mission of fostering dialogue for the Erie region on a global level.
Our audiences continue to show up to explore critical topics—from politics and global affairs to cutting-edge science, technology, sports, and more. And thanks to our sponsors, we’ve kept ticket prices unchanged since day one, ensuring that access to these powerful learning experiences remains open to all.
Last year, the 2024 Global Summit featured bold conversations on politics, sports, history, artificial intelligence, and social issues. It culminated in a landmark event: former U.S. Representative Liz Cheney in conversation with Erie’s own Sr. Joan Chittister—the largest event in JES history and the largest educational event ever held at the Bayfront Convention Center.
This year, we look forward to kicking off this year’s Global Summit with President Barack Obama. We will also host and welcome renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback and community leader Jim Kelly, Vice President Mike Pence, and acclaimed historian Lindsay Chervinsky, plus many additional distinguished speakers who will engage and inspire audiences of all ages.
Whether you’ve sponsored the Global Summit before, supported other JES initiatives, or are considering a sponsorship for the first time, thank you for helping our community grow and thrive. Your support makes it possible for us to offer inclusive, high-quality programming that fosters civic engagement and civil dialogue—providing residents across Erie County with access to the ideas, conversations, and learning opportunities that matter most, especially in times when thoughtful public discourse is so urgently necessary.
If your organization is interested in becoming a Global Summit XVII sponsor, please contact Christine Gerlock by phone at 814-459-8000 or by email at gerlock@jeserie.org.
New Prize for These Eyes: The Rise of Americas Second Civil Rights Movement
From the Montgomery boycott to the Little Rock Nine and the Selma-Montgomery march, the stories of those involved in the American Civil Rights Movement were documented through "Eyes on the Prize" in 1987. Now, as backlash to inclusion brews, a second Civil Rights Movement is about to erupt and "New Prize for These Eyes: The Rise of America's Second Civil Rights Movement" shines a light on the historic new moment and its heroes.
Williams is a veteran journalist, political analyst, and author known for his work across major media platforms. He currently serves as a senior political analyst for Fox News Channel, where he previously co-hosted The Five and appears regularly on political programming.
Williams began his career at The Washington Post, where he spent over two decades covering politics and civil rights. He has also written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Time. A former NPR political analyst and frequent PBS contributor, he has received an Emmy Award for television documentary writing.
He is the author of several acclaimed books, including "Eyes on the Prize," "Thurgood Marshall: American Revolutionary," and "Muzzled: The Assault on Honest Debate." Throughout his career, Williams has been a prominent voice on issues of race, politics, and American democracy.
Date/Time: Thursday, November 13, 2025 7:00-8:30PM
Location: Gannon University, Yehl Ballroom, Waldron Campus Center, 628 Peach St, Erie, PA 16501
Admission:
- General Admission: $35
- Preferred Seating: $60 (Closest Section Near the Stage)
Additional Fees: Amusement Tax, Processing Fee
Parking: Gannon University parking garage on Peach Street.
Juan Williams is a veteran journalist, political analyst, and author known for his work across major media platforms. He currently serves as a senior political analyst for Fox News Channel, where he previously co-hosted The Five and appears regularly on political programming.
Williams began his career at The Washington Post, where he spent over two decades covering politics and civil rights. He has also written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Time. A former NPR political analyst and frequent PBS contributor, he has received an Emmy Award for television documentary writing.
He is the author of several acclaimed books, including Eyes on the Prize, Thurgood Marshall: American Revolutionary, and Muzzled: The Assault on Honest Debate. Throughout his career, Williams has been a prominent voice on issues of race, politics, and American democracy.
