The 2026-27 Edward Shapiro Distinguished Lecture series welcomes bestselling author, New York Times Foreign Affairs Columnist, and Pulitzer Prize winner, Thomas Friedman.

TOPIC “The Big Trends Shaping the World Today: Economics, Technology, and Geopolitics”

Thomas Friedman is the bestselling author of The World is Flat and a New York Times Foreign Affairs Columnist. He is renowned for his direct reporting and accessible analysis of complex issues shaping the world. According to Foreign Policy magazine, “Friedman doesn’t just report on events; he helps shape them.” The winner of three Pulitzer Prizes, he has covered monumental stories from around the globe for The New York Times since 1981. With clear and compelling language, Friedman discusses the opportunities and challenges that “accelerations,” including technology and connectivity, present. He also explores solutions — on a local and global level — to ensure the future of work, skills, income, and prosperity.

Accessibility – Interpreters for the deaf and live captioning will be available at this event.
Admission – Free
RSVPs – not required, but much appreciated – thanks!
https://utoledo.questionpro.com/ShapiroRSVP
Visitor Parking – Free (Area 20 only)
All other areas will require payment

To pay to park in another area, visit https://www.parkutoledo.com/visitor-parking.