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
A Conversation with Peter Mansbridge
Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at 7 p.m.
Horowitz Theatre
Tickets are available on Tuesday, July 29 for $25 each
Peter Mansbridge is one of Canada’s most respected and recognizable figures. For five decades, including his 29 years as the anchor of CBC’s The National, he has guided us through the political, economic, and cultural events that have shaped the country. Through a unique lens of journalistic expertise, Mansbridge offers us guidance on how to cultivate trust, take pride in our heritage, and navigate leadership through times of upheaval.
During this moderated discussion, Peter Mansbridge will share his thoughts on the state of journalism, Canadian politics, intellectual freedom, and his illustrious career.
The event will be moderated by Gord Steinke.
About Peter Mansbridge
Peter Mansbridge served as the chief correspondent of CBC News, helmed its flagship show The National, anchored all CBC News specials, and hosted the intelligent interview show Mansbridge: One on One. For his work, Mansbridge has received over a dozen national awards for broadcast excellence.
Mansbridge has been a Fellow at Yale, has lectured at Oxford, was named Chancellor of Mount Allison University, and is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. He was named an Officer of the Order of Canada for his “contributions to broadcasting, for his commitment to helping Canadians better understand their country and the world, and for his dedication to literacy and Canada’s youth.” His book Mansbridge: One on One was a national bestseller and his most recent book is How Canada Works.
About Gord Steinke
Gord Steinke is a familiar face to Edmontonians. He's an award-winning journalist, news anchor, and best-selling author. Gord was one of the region's most popular news anchors for over 30 years. He retired from Global Edmonton in 2022.
Event Partners
This Year's Speakers
2025 Speakers
Level Up with Dr. Shawna Pandya
An Evening with David Sedaris
Kindness: The Stars that Light Our Way with Jesse Thistle
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
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.
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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.
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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.