The Endicott College Presidential Speaker Series brings nationally and internationally recognized leaders, innovators, storytellers, and changemakers to campus for conversations that challenge perspectives, inspire curiosity, and encourage meaningful dialogue.

Established through the generous support of alumna Arlene Battistelli ’60 and sponsored by the Endicott Center for Civic Engagement, the series reflects Endicott's commitment to preparing students for lives of leadership, purpose, and global engagement. Each event offers the College community the opportunity to hear directly from influential voices whose experiences span business, journalism, public service, entertainment, travel, and beyond.

At Endicott, transformational learning extends well beyond the classroom. The Presidential Speaker Series is another way for students to engage with bold ideas, diverse viewpoints, and accomplished leaders whose stories challenge them to think differently, lead confidently, and make a meaningful impact.

A diverse group of students and attendees sit in an audience, listening intently to a speaker.
Empowering Engaged Citizens for Positive Change
Endicott Center for Civic Participation (ECCP)
By bridging academic learning with community service, advocacy, and dialogue—through events such as the Presidential Speaker Series—the ECCP cultivates lifelong agents of positive change, ensuring the College remains a hub for civic leadership and social impact.
Visit the ECCP

Past Speakers

Kal Penn
Kal Penn
Kal Penn on Saying Yes, Taking Risks, and Showing Up
Endicott College hosted an extraordinary week blending history, democracy, and Hollywood creativity. From a fully costumed Thomas Jefferson engaging students in conversations about freedom and civic responsibility, to film music supervisors Patrick and John Houlihan sharing behind-the-scenes insights from 20th Century Studios, students experienced immersive learning from two very different worlds united by storytelling.
Kurt Smith
History and Hollywood Come Alive at Endicott
Sean Astin at Endicott's Presidential Speaker Series event
Sean Astin
Sean Astin Opens Up About Mental Health at Endicott
Joan Lunden may be used to asking the questions, but she flipped the script at Endicott College on March 4, sharing colorful stories from her years as host of Good Morning America as part of the second annual Presidential Speaker Series, made possible through a generous commitment from Arlene Battistelli ’60.
Joan Lunden
Live from Endicott, it’s Joan Lunden
Rick Steves
Rick Steves
When Traveling, ‘Go with the Culture,’ Says Rick Steves
  • Impact of Donor Support

    Thanks to the generous support of alumna Arlene Battistelli ’60 and other passionate donors, the Presidential Speaker Series is free and open to the Endicott and broader North Shore communities. If you’d like to learn more about how you can support this and other influential College initiatives, explore our giving opportunities.

  • Media Inquiries

    Anthony Donaldson
    Vice President, Marketing & Communications
    adonalds@endicott.edu