Forward Thinking Speaker Series
The Forward Thinking Speaker Series reflects EPL’s rich history of taking risks, trying new things and redefining the modern library. EPL invites thought-leaders from a variety of industries to share their insights, ideas, experiences and viewpoints. Its purpose is to help build better organizations, neighborhoods and communities.
Featured Speaker
The 2025 Forward Thinking Speaker Series Season Pass is now available to purchase on Eventbrite. Secure your tickets to all four events for just $125. The following speakers will share their insights, experiences and viewpoints as part of this ongoing series.Â
- Level Up with Dr. Shawna Pandya
Wednesday, January 22 - 7 p.m. , Triffo Theatre (MacEwan University)Â
- An Evening with David Sedaris
Monday, May 5 - 6 p.m. , Edmonton Convention CentreÂ
- Kindness: The Stars that Light Our Way with Jesse Thistle
Thursday, June 19 - 7 p.m. , Horowitz TheatreÂ
- A Conversation with Peter Mansbridge
Tuesday, September 9 - 7 p.m. , Horowitz TheatreÂ
The Season Pass includes assigned general admission seating for three events and unassigned preferred seating for An Evening with David Sedaris. Season Pass holders will receive event tickets one month prior to the event. Â
Season Passes are non-refundable.Â
This Year's Speakers
2025 Speakers
Star Gazing and Trailblazing
David Sedaris Comes to Edmonton to Talk Pretty
Kindness: The Stars that Light Our Way with Jesse Thistle
A Conversation with Peter Mansbridge
Past Speakers
2024 Forward Thinking Speaker Series Recap
2023 Forward Thinking Speaker Series Recap
2022 Forward Thinking Speaker Series Recap
2021 Forward Thinking Speaker Series Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
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We have tested a variety of ticketing models at our events, including giving all tickets away for free. Unfortunately, this is not the best practice for us or our customers due to high no-show rates. We often had hundreds of customers missing out on tickets only to have a significant number of no-shows at the event. We have learned that a small cost holds our customers accountable to use their ticket while still making it a very affordable event.
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You can transfer your ticket to a friend or family member if you can't attend an event. EPL does not offer refunds for tickets purchased to Forward Thinking Speaker Series events.Â
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In an effort to create a barrier-free experience, if you have a disability or impairment that will impact your participation in our event please email us at events@epl.ca at least one week ahead of time to allow us to find solutions to best support you.
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The General Admission season pass is $125 and gives you a tickets to all four Forward Thinking Speaker Series events in 2025.Â
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In order to ensure the best experience for all customers, we do not allow latecomers into Speaker Series events after 7:10 p.m. For An Evening with David Sedaris, doors will be closed after 6:10 p.m. Please be in your seats before this time.
