Who are some of the most sought-after guest speakers at US colleges today?

Hey everyone, I was just thinking about colleges bringing guest speakers for different events. I'm curious to know which speakers are really popular among US colleges these days. Which public figures or professionals are often invited to speak on campus?

The arena of guest speakers at colleges is fascinating and diverse, spanning a wide array of fields and areas of interest. The specific popularity of certain speakers can vary depending on the university, the course of study, and the current events or trends. However, there are quite a few notable figures who are consistently sought-after.

Professional Leaders:

Many colleges invite decorated professionals from various industries to inspire their students. Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, and Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, are often sought-after in the tech and business domain.

Experts & Scholars:

Leading intellectuals, authors, and researchers often get the call for guest lectures to share their insights on relevant subjects. Figures like Angela Davis, a prominent activist and scholar, or Michio Kaku, a renowned physicist, are popular choices.

Public Figures:

Prominent public figures, politicians, and activists are frequently welcomed on college campuses as well. Individuals like former President Barack Obama, Malala Yousafzai, and change-maker Greta Thunberg are often invited to share their experiences and viewpoints.

Cultural Icons:

In the realm of culture, many colleges invite actors, artists, and musicians for talks. Icons like Oprah Winfrey, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Viola Davis are known to inspire audiences with their insights on culture, representation, and the arts.

Again, the "popularity" of these speakers can vary greatly depending on the region, the college's culture, and the specific interests of the student body. For instance, a STEM-focused university might gravitate toward tech entrepreneurs or scientific thought-leaders, while a college with a strong humanities or social sciences department might prioritize authors, activists, and public figures. This makes the guest speaker landscape rich and dynamic!