Join us on Friday Mornings at Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel
Speaker & Programs Committee
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Richard Hackmann
Co-chair
Don MacKenzie
Co-chair
“Informed Minds. Inspired Hearts. Impactful Service.”
At PAUR, we approach tradition with a fresh perspective—and our Speaker and Programs Committee reflects that spirit. While grounded in Rotary’s long-standing commitment to learning and leadership, our programs are designed to challenge assumptions, spark ideas, and open doors to new ways of thinking and serving.
Each week, we welcome speakers who educate, energize, and elevate our understanding of the world—helping us become more thoughtful Rotarians and more effective agents of change.
What We Do
The Speaker and Programs Committee curates meaningful content for our weekly Friday meetings—thoughtfully selecting speakers who inform, challenge, and inspire.
Our work goes beyond logistics. We aim to deliver programs that reflect Rotary’s core values while resonating with the interests and passions of our members. Whether it’s a local leader, a global expert, or one of our own, we seek voices that spark conversation and fuel action.
​Our responsibilities include:
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Coordinating dynamic speakers for weekly meetings
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Ensuring programs are relevant, thought-provoking, and service-oriented
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Collaborating with members to identify and invite speakers
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Striking a balance between local insights and global awareness
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Occasionally organizing themed meetings or speaker panels
All programs are non-partisan and non-sectarian, in keeping with Rotary’s commitment to respectful dialogue and diverse perspectives.
We don’t just fill a slot—we craft a platform.
Curious about upcoming programs?
Our Recent Speakers
Our speakers hail from a broad spectrum of professionals, artists, civic leaders, journalists, authors, entrepreneurs, and scientists.
Dr Christopher Gardner
Dr. Christopher Gardner is a leading nutrition scientist at Stanford, known for his research on diet, health, and sustainability. His work was recently featured in the Netflix series You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment. He spoke to us about the 'Food & Sustainability .
Annette King
Annette King is the CEO and Executive Producer of Splicer Films, a purpose-driven documentary company telling stories that inspire social change. Her award-winning work spotlights underrepresented voices and global changemakers, including refugees and women leaders. She spoke to us about her new project.
Ed Lauing
Ed Lauing is Palo Alto’s current mayor and a longtime civic leader, previously serving on both the Planning and Parks & Recreation Commissions. Known for his collaborative style, he focuses on housing, climate action, and community safety.
He spoke to us about the 'State of the City' with a special focus on Housing.
Rev. Floyd Thompkins
Rev. Floyd Thompkins is a pastor and nonprofit leader known for his work in social justice, youth empowerment, and interfaith dialogue. He has served as dean at Stanford and Princeton and currently leads the Justice and Peace Foundation. He spoke to us about his 'Coming to the Table dialogues in Marin City'.
Speaker Suggestions Welcome!
Our best programs often begin with a simple idea—from you. The Speaker and Programs Committee welcomes suggestions from club members and community partners for engaging, inspiring, and relevant speakers.
You can:
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Recommend a speaker who aligns with Rotary values
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Offer to speak if you have a story, expertise, or experience to share
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Help us connect with a potential speaker through your network
Have someone in mind? Let us know — we’re always listening. Please fill out a speaker suggestion form here.