2026 Frederick Speaker Series
Now in its 13th season, The Frederick Speaker Series has developed a reputation for bringing world-class speakers to the Frederick area. The goal is to engage our community through enlightening discourse and meaningful topics. As a result of the Series, Frederick’s reputation as an intellectual hub continues to grow, drawing audiences from D.C., Baltimore, and beyond.
From inspirational topics to sensational perspectives, you’ll find it all at the Frederick Speaker Series!
All Events will be ASL Interpreted.

JEFF CORWIN
Biologist & Wildlife Conservationist
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2026 | 7:30 PM
For nearly 30 years, Jeff Corwin has been a leading voice in wildlife conservation, educating global audiences through his Emmy-winning television work. He currently serves as creator and host of Wildlife Nation, a groundbreaking ABC series produced with Defenders of Wildlife that highlights conservation efforts across North America. With a deep academic background and a passion for storytelling, he continues to champion the protection of endangered species worldwide.
Sponsored by:


LAURA LYNNE JACKSON
Certified Research Medium
THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Laura Lynne Jackson is a Certified Research Medium with the Windbridge Institute and a member of the advisory board for the Forever Family Foundation, where she supports research into afterlife science and helps grieving families find comfort. Her bestselling book, The Light Between Us, shares powerful stories and explores the science behind her abilities, offering a transformative view of human consciousness. Learn more about this speaker and explore her history on the Laura Lynne Jackson official website.

Photo by Roger Pelissier
DR. WILLIAM LI
Physician, Scientist & Author
THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Dr. William Li is a world-renowned physician, scientist, and author of the New York Times bestsellers Eat to Beat Disease and Eat to Beat Your Diet. His pioneering research has contributed to the development of over 40 medical treatments for more than 70 diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Learn more about this speaker and explore his history on the Dr. William Li official website.
Sponsored by:


WALTER MOSLEY
Author & Social Commentator
THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Walter Mosley is an iconic and award-winning author whose prolific career spans more than 60 books across genres including mystery, science fiction, nonfiction, and graphic novels. Best known for his acclaimed Easy Rawlins detective series—soon to continue with Gray Dawn releasing September 16, 2025—Mosley’s work has also been adapted for screen, including Devil in a Blue Dress and the upcoming The Man in My Basement—releasing on Hulu in Fall 2025. His latest book, Been Wrong So Long It Feels So Right, was published on January 28, 2025. A powerful voice on race and justice, Mosley’s influence extends from the page to the screen, stage, and public discourse. Learn more about this speaker and explore his history on the Walter Mosley official website.

CAROL ANDERSON
Professor of African American Studies — Emory University
THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Carol Anderson is a professor of African American Studies at Emory University and the bestselling author of White Rage, One Person, No Vote, and The Second: Race and Guns in a Fatally Unequal America. A major voice in reframing American history, she contributed to the Pulitzer Prize-winning The 1619 Project and is known for her powerful research on race, democracy, and human rights.
Each Speaker also has a MEET & GREET opportunity associated with the performance, purchased in addition to the ticket to the Event itself. For an additional $75, you can engage with these incredible Speakers for a photo opportunity, a signing opportunity (whenever possible), and light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. The Meet & Greet is NOT a valid ticket to the speaking engagement itself.
The proceeds of all Meet & Greet events benefit children’s programming at Frederick County Public Libraries.
Distinguished Frederick Speaker Series guests join the likes of past speakers that include Chuck D, Cheryl Strayed, Monica Lewinsky, Neil Gaiman, George Takei, Bill Nye, Bob Woodward, Dr. Michio Kaku, Cal Ripken Jr., General Colin Powell, Tom Brokaw, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, Laverne Cox, LeVar Burton, Bryan Stevenson, Dr. Temple Grandin, Ronan Farrow, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Henry Winkler, Ted Koppel, Marlee Matlin, Elizabeth Smart, Dave Barry, Mitch Albom, and Celeste Ng.