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.
You are Changing the World Whether You Like it or Not
David LaMotte is an award-winning songwriter, speaker, and author who has authored four books, including "You are Changing the World Whether You Like it or Not," which is used in classrooms nationwide and abroad to talk about societal roles and issues.
*This is a Dr. Davin and MaryAnne Kozak Gannon READS event.
Date/Time: Thursday, October 16, 2025 7:00-8:30PM
Location: Warner Theater, 811 State St, Erie, PA 16501
Admission: FREE
Parking: TBD
David LaMotte is an award-winning songwriter, speaker, and author who has performed over 3,500 concerts worldwide and released thirteen albums. His music, including the Folk Radio #1 hit “September Me,” has been featured on Our Town (Broadway), This American Life, and national television. A sought-after speaker, David has delivered TEDx talks (one a TED Editor’s Pick) and keynoted events at the UN, Scottish Parliament, and Rotary International. He is a Rotary World Peace Fellow with a master’s in International Relations, and the founder of PEG Partners, a nonprofit supporting education in Guatemala. David has authored four books, including You Are Changing the World Whether You Like It Or Not, used in college classrooms across the U.S. and abroad. He is also part of the interfaith musical group Abraham Jam. He lives in Black Mountain, NC, and continues to tour, write, and advocate for peace and justice.
