How narrative can shape a better understanding of today’s big issues.

Communication and policy...let's think about it differently. Look beyond the headline and pay attention to the story.

5 p.m. Reception

6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Program

Soledad O'Brien is an award-winning journalist, speaker, author, and philanthropist who has established herself as one of the most recognized names in broadcasting. She is the CEO of Starfish Media Group, a multi-platform production company dedicated to telling empowering and authentic stories on range of social issues (Matter of Fact.tv).

On stage, Soledad draws from her life and career to stimulate thoughtful conversation on the roles we each play within our communities and organizations, leaving audiences with memorable takeaways on the power of individuals and companies to make meaningful and lasting change.

Mayor Aja Brown (’04, MPL ’05) will join the conversation as moderator. Aja Brown made history at age 31 as the youngest mayor ever elected in the City of Compton. A national trailblazer, Mayor Brown’s ‘New Vision for Compton’ is a revitalization strategy centered on 12-key principles that focus on family values, quality of life, economic development and infrastructural growth. She was overwhelmingly re-elected to a second four-year term in June of 2017.

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The Holt Lecture, a speaker’s series focused on communication and politics, was established by longtime Price School board of councilors member Dennis Holt (founding chairman and CEO of USIM) and his wife, Brooks. In 2012, the Bedrosian Center became a partner in delivering programming associated with the Holt Lecture. Past speakers include Fred Ryan, Dana Perino, LeVar Burton, Nate Silver, Robert Caro, and George Will.

Holt programs support prominent practitioners, influential policy makers, and visiting scholars, who come to USC to give lectures, meet with students, faculty members, and the public to discuss issues and research in communication and public policy.

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FAQs

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

All Holt Lecture guests should park in McCarthy Way (formerly PSX) OR Downey Way (formerly PSA ) Parking Structures.

Upon entering either of the parking structures, there will be a parking fee of $14 per car. The parking attendant will have further instructions on where to park.

A detailed and printable map of campus can be found here.

You may also take the Metro Expo line, which has three stops conveniently located around the USC campus. The most direct stop is the Expo Park/USC stop. Use the Metro Trip Planner to find your route!

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

You can email us at bedrosian.center@usc.edu.

You can also call us at 213.740.4618 (we'll be out of the office preparing the venue - so call us with important questions before the 14th!).