NACD Directors Summit™ 2025
Mainstage Speakers
Global thought leaders shaping the future of governance.
Meet Our 2025 Mainstage Speakers
More to be announced—check back for the latest updates.
Anima Anandkumar
AI researcher and professor, Caltech
Session Title: Bridging the Digital and Physical Worlds with AI
Join Anima Anandkumar, a pioneering AI researcher and professor at Caltech, as she delves into the transformative power of AI in bridging the digital and physical worlds. Anima's groundbreaking work on neural operators has revolutionized fields such as weather forecasting, drug development, and scientific simulations. In this session, she will share insights into how AI can model complex physical processes, from molecular bonds to ocean currents, and discuss recent projects that demonstrate AI's potential to solve real world problems. Discover how these advancements are paving the way for a future where AI not only comprehends but also interacts with the physical world in unprecedented ways.
Ian Bremmer
President & Founder, Eurasia Group and GZERO Media
Session Title: The Power of Crisis
In a "G-Zero" world (one without strong and sustainable international leadership) Ian Bremmer argues we are unprepared for a trio of looming crisis-future global health emergencies, transformative climate change, and the next technological revolution. Bremmer discusses the geopolitics of these topics:
War in Ukraine: How will Russia’s challenge to the existing international system and China’s ongoing effort to find the most profitable role to play in ending it shape the next security order and the future of the global economy?
Climate change: What risks will it create for political and business decision-makers in years to come, and what lessons can it teach us about the future of international cooperation?
Tech: Ian assesses the growing risks of AI, quantum computing, cyber warfare, and their impact on the future of government, trade, and the international system.
Shelly Palmer
Advanced Media Professor, Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications; CEO, The Palmer Group
Session Title: Navigating the Future: AI, Blockchain, Cryptocurrency, NFTs & Smart Contracts with Shelly Palmer
In this compelling session, join Shelly Palmer, renowned technology expert and business advisor, as he explores the cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future. AI, Blockchain, Cryptocurrency, NFTs, and Smart Contracts are revolutionizing industries and redefining the digital landscape. Shelly Palmer will provide an in-depth analysis of these innovations, with a candid discussion on their commercial viability, potential impact on various sectors, and future trends. Additionally, he will touch on the intertwining of these technologies with AI and cybersecurity, offering his unique insights on what businesses and individuals need to know to stay ahead in this evolving digital era.
Jeffrey Sonnenfeld
Founder & President, Chief Executive Leadership Institute, Senior Associate Dean, Leadership Studies & Lester Crown Professor, Practice of Management, Yale University
Session Title: Transforming Corporate Leadership: A Conversation with Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, the CEO Whisperer
Join us for a powerful conversation with Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, the renowned senior associate dean at the Yale School of Management and founder of the Chief Executive Leadership Institute. Sonnenfeld has been called The CEO Whisperer because of his intimate relationships with hundreds of well-known CEOs and his ability to bring their voices to the forefront of our national conversation. As an almost daily commentator on CNBC, Sonnenfeld has transformed corporate governance and strategic leadership. With extensive experience addressing critical issues—from CEO succession planning to crisis management—Sonnenfeld's initiatives include mobilizing corporate leaders for impactful actions and fostering responsible leadership. Guided by Board Director Diane Hessan, Sonnenfeld will delve into leadership, governance, and the pivotal role of boards in shaping a responsible corporate future.
Learning Objectives:
- Effective Board Practices: Gain insights into best practices for corporate boards.
- Strategic Leadership: Learn from Sonnenfeld's experiences in transforming corporate governance.
- Collective Action: Inspire top executives to address global challenges.
- Boardroom Effectiveness: Enhance the effectiveness of corporate boards.
- Responsible Leadership: Promote responsible corporate leadership.
Call For Sessions
Help us create a program that prepares boards for the future. Submit your session proposal by April 6, 2025.