Episodes

Friday Dec 01, 2017
Friday Dec 01, 2017
Ravi Bhalla is the Mayor-Elect of Hoboken N.J. where his vast experience as a successful civil rights attorney and councilman will serve the mile square city well in the protection of civil rights, improving public education, preserving open space and much more. Hobokenresidents and business are fortunate to have Mayor Elect Bhalla, the first Sikh mayor in U.S. that wears a turban on the job in January 2018. Mark muses that this is the beginning of a long and triumphant career in politics for Ravi Bhalla. http://hobokennj.gov/council/members/ravinder-s-bhalla/
Matt Lauer is the latest in a turbulent week in an era where high powered men are accused of inappropriate behavior and or sexual harassment in the workplace. This week alone Garison Keiller and Russell Simmons have also been accused of unwanted sexual advances. Mark discusses his disdain for this unacceptable behavior and how now more then ever is the need for more women to have powerful roles in business and government.
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids k-12 and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
"Mark invigorated our conference! His genuine enthusiasm and professionalism, combined with an amazing topic, made for a marvelous presentation."
Catharine Leahy - Speakers Chair Princeton University

Friday Nov 17, 2017
Friday Nov 17, 2017
When NYC entrepreneur Jacqueline Wolfson was on the cusp of a milestone birthday she packed her bags and jetted off to Africa to clear her mind and relax, though what she experienced in Africa lead her to develop The Shule Foundation (www.shulefoundation.org). Dedicated to educating children and providing hope and opportunity through the organizations program, The Shule Foundation has taken invisible kids off the streets and has a measure impact on communities. Laugh for Sight celebrated 12 years this week at the legendary Gotham Club in NYC with comedian greats Robert Klein, Jim Norton and many more. Mark shares his experience of hosting (and drinking) this stellar event for over a decade and the impact it’s had on degenerative retinal diseases which LFS founder Brian Fischler is immensely dedicated toward remedying. “It’s tremendously rewarding speaking at schools, colleges and corporations on vital topics yet it’s a different rush standing on a renowned stage warming up the crowd on a topic I’m intimately involved with (low vision) where essentially nothing is off limits”, says Mark about his annual comedy stint for charity. Video clip of Mark on-stage: https://www.facebook.com/PRNfm/videos/10155853268075522/ Also, check out www.laughforsight.com
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids 2nd – 12th and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
“As soon as we heard that Mark Farrell was available to speak at our school, we had to have him come talk with our students! As a former Park Avenue student, he was really able to relate to our students as he once sat in the same classrooms that they all sit in everyday. Mark's personal story was an inspiration for our students and he kept 2nd through 5th graders engaged which is not an easy task! He even took time out at the end of his presentation to walk down the hallway and have a talk with a student who felt different due to the divorce of his parents. I definitely would recommend Mark Farrell to speak at any school that is looking for a great message about overcoming adversity”
Nicole Funaro
PAE School Counselor
Freehold NJ

Friday Nov 03, 2017
Friday Nov 03, 2017
Writer Kirsten Corley, shared her thoughts, feelings and insight on-line one day and the world reacted. o much that it was initially overwhelming and scary for this incredibly talented, passionate and creative person to comprehend though after realizing this was her calling Kirsten started writing and pretty much only stops to prepare for either a half or full marathon, volunteer with Holiday Express or Covenant House. Her writing style attracts millions of readers on issues that we all grapple with including: relationship, lifestyle and mental health awareness. Huffington Post, Elite Daily, Mogul and many others were fortunate to have Kirsten share her experiences with anxiety and depression though it’s Thought Catalog that Kirsten calls home and the imprint that published her first book “But Before You Leave”, a collection of poetry and astute quotes. https://thoughtcatalog.com/kirsten-corley/
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids 2nd – 12th and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
“Mark Farrell presented at our school during The Week of Respect. The students were captivated by his motivating message on perseverance, diversity, and anti-bullying. Our students remained engaged throughout his presentation as he has perfected speaking to students at their developmental level. Mark was flexible to work with and was able to engage with students on a large array of topics. My students greatly benefited from hearing the message that with hard work, diligence, and never giving up on yourself, your dreams can become your reality. I would highly recommend Mark Farrell to any school looking for a highly motivating speaker”
Janice Dawer School Counselor/SAC
Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School

Friday Oct 20, 2017
Friday Oct 20, 2017

Jimmy Pannullo’s heart is bigger then the impressive homes he builds. In 2012, this determined Long Islandcontractor wanted to create a platform to give to families in need. Then it dawned on him that his vast skill set as a seasoned carpenter is an ideal way to help families by transforming an unfinished basement a fun, comfortable and beautiful respite for a child with a disability or serious illness. So whether it’s expanding and making a child’s room awesome or improving the parent’s bedroom - Jimmy puts his heart and soul into every detail and it’s likely he’ll even improve a sibling’s bedroom because he wants them to feel just as important and deserving as the rest of the family. Mark also speaks with one of the proud recipients of Jimmy Pannullo’s organization - “Be A Kidd”, Lisa Monteforte, who shares her immense gratitude for Jimmy and his tireless efforts to vastly improve their home for their daughter Victoria. Hear how Jimmy funds “Be A Kidd” to how he captured the attention of the Today Show where his magnanimous work was featured. Jimmy’s quite busy improving homes for families that are unable to do so financially themselves and it’s typically after a long day working his day job building homes or he can be found on the weekends making families happier in their home. Help Jimmy help families. Find him on Facebook: Be A Kidd.
Should the government require cars to have a dashboard indicator alerting drivers that their kids are in the backseat? Why aren’t more morally people driven to serve the public? Listen for those musings and more from Mark.

Monday Oct 16, 2017
Monday Oct 16, 2017
Bestseller author, Speaker, CPA and President of a leading financial firm, Tom Corley discusses his book “Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals” explains to Mark what so many people are doing incorrectly and how making subtle changes can have a drastic effect on immediate and long term goals. www.richhabits.net
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids k-12 and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
"Mark invigorated our conference! His genuine enthusiasm and professionalism, combined with an amazing topic, made for a marvelous presentation."
Catharine Leahy - Speakers Chair Pinceton University

Friday Sep 15, 2017
Friday Sep 15, 2017
James Raffone’s son was diagnosed with duchenne muscular dystrophy 4 years ago and his father hasn’t stopped moving since through his creation of the Jar of Hope Foundation which spreads awareness, raises vital funds and works with the medical community in developing a cure. Join James and his family Saturday September 16, 2017 along with over 2,000 participants to set a new Guinness world record by the largest group of people doing push-ups for children who are not strong enough to do so themselves due to their terminal disease duchenne muscular dystrophy. The remarkable courage, resiliency and love James has for his son will warm your heart and compel you to donate and get involved. www.jarofhope.org
Mary Bryant McCourt, Vice-President / Founder of the Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans has been positively impacting tens of thousands of lives through supplying Achilles hand crank cycles, customized gear, training, guides and so much more for people with disabilities who want to resume a sport or become the athlete they longed for. Hear how this seemingly ubiquitous organizations programs help children to seniors through the many platforms developed to cultivate confidence, pride and more. www.achillesinternational.org
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Have host Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids k-12 and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
“Mark Farrell served our firm with a perfect mix of motivation, humor and uplifting personal experience during a corporate event to touch each employee personally while inspiring success and determination. Mark’s professionalism, contagious charisma and flexibility made working with him something we look forward to again in the future”
Robin Greene, Vice President
Prestigious Hedge Fund Greenwich, CT

Friday Sep 01, 2017
Friday Sep 01, 2017
Jackie Atkins love for nunchucks, running and success paved the way for her to become Executive Director of Research & Development with Bell Labs, two time Ringside World Champion, National Golden Glove Champion and entrepreneur that gives immeasurably to youth so they too can have the vital tools in life needed to attain goals. Jackie tells Mark how she would comb through the refuse to collect and learn the proprietary GUI software through her evening maintenance position with Bell Labs where she quickly earned a temporary role that got her noticed as the budding Executive Director of Research and Development. Jackie broke the mold for women of color for her unwavering work in the corporate world, her work establishing award winning women’s boxing at West Point, the creation of the NJ chapter of Give A Kid A Dream (http://njgakad.com/), and most recently – Jackie was bestowed that title of President of Amateur Boxing New Jersey. And yes, Jackie can do one arm push-ups.
The 2017 MTV VMA’s had a few shinning moments and one that included Pink’s reception speech of the Vanguard award that described the importance of being different. Mark also discusses the impact of Logic’s new song “1-800-273-8255” and how encouraging it was to see survivors of suicide share the MTV stage and promote vital the messaging of getting help.
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids 2nd – 12th and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
"Marks message is a compelling, must hear for all high school students. Mark's life and struggles mirror what many in high school are already dealing with. His dare to be different attitude is something that should be adopted by all who are privileged to hear Mark speak."
Officer Rick Duda
Denville Township Police Department
School Resource Officer
Morris County School of Technology

Monday Aug 28, 2017
Monday Aug 28, 2017
In January 2006, Albert Rizzi woke up in a hospital completely blind. Fungal meningitis was the culprit that attacked his optic nerve leaving him blind though Albert tells Mark that “he’s never seen better” without his vision. Before Albert lost his eyesight he was an Executive Director of a thriving preschool and afterschool program in the South Bronx. A role he thrived in prior to being hospitalized but Albert soon realized that his blindness presented a new life’s calling where he planned to level the playing field for people with blindness, visual impairments and all disabilities. Through the creation of “My Blind Spot”, a non-profit organization – Albert is providing outreach, advocacy, education and services by promoting an inclusive culture and accessible digital infrastructure to ensure equal access to employment, education, recreation, and independent living opportunities for people with disabilities. Albert’s industrious character and tireless efforts have positioned My Blind Sport to partner with major national and international companies who share Albert’s initiative in shifting perspectives and ensuring that people with disabilities can take their place alongside their nondisabled peers as valued, productive, contributing citizens. Hear the hilarious story Mark shares of when he first met Albert and his guide dog Vaughn in a restaurant. Listen to this insightful conversation and more. Visit Albert’s website: www.myblindspot.org
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids 2nd – 12th and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
“Mark Farrell presented at our school during The Week of Respect. The students were captivated by his motivating message on perseverance, diversity, and anti-bullying. Our students remained engaged throughout his presentation as he has perfected speaking to students at their developmental level. Mark was flexible to work with and was able to engage with students on a large array of topics. My students greatly benefited from hearing the message that with hard work, diligence, and never giving up on yourself, your dreams can become your reality. I would highly recommend Mark Farrell to any school looking for a highly motivating speaker”
Janice Dawer School Counselor/SAC
Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School

Friday Aug 18, 2017
Friday Aug 18, 2017
Traig McMillan will make you smile, laugh and understand just how resilient and talented persons with disabilities are. Not only does Helen Keller Services for the Blind help students like Traig succeed on many levels including education and rehabilitation – they also prepare students for jobs/careers and many facets of life. Traig shares with Mark his life long passion and his incredible gratitude for Helen Keller and the persons pivotal for his success including Russell Martello, Director of Youth Services and Yokasta Urena – Program Manager, who also appear for a most fun and insightful conversation. www.helenkeller.org
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids k-12 and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
“Mark Farrell served our firm with a perfect mix of motivation, humor and uplifting personal experience during a corporate event to touch each employee personally while inspiring success and determination. Mark’s professionalism, contagious charisma and flexibility made working with him something we look forward to again in the future”
Robin Greene, Vice President
Prestigious Hedge Fund Greenwich, CT

Friday Aug 11, 2017
Friday Aug 11, 2017
A new You Tube series, “Don’t Shoot The Messenger” has the internet buzzing over it’s witty writing, interesting characters and the real challenges deaf people experience ranging from limited professional opportunities (including lack of casting deaf actors in roles for the deaf), corporations and accommodations to the indescribably mindless questions persons with hearing impairments and deafness field like; “can you drive a car” or, “Are you able to have sex?”. Really! Mark is joined by the creators, Melani Chaitoo and Craig Fogel (and interpreter Veronica Staehle) who discuss the inception of the series that is a partial reflection of Melanie’s life without hearing and Craig’s early introduction to learning American Sign Language (ASL) to becoming an interpreter, actor and much more. It’s an eye-opening funny conversation about disabilities and acting and the arts. “Don’t Shoot The Messenger” episodes are available to view for free: www.themessengerasl.com Watch interview: https://www.facebook.com/PRNfm/?fref=ts (scroll down look for INSIGHT LIVE Thursday August 10).
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids 2nd – 12th and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
“Mark Farrell presented at our school during The Week of Respect. The students were captivated by his motivating message on perseverance, diversity, and anti-bullying. Our students remained engaged throughout his presentation as he has perfected speaking to students at their developmental level. Mark was flexible to work with and was able to engage with students on a large array of topics. My students greatly benefited from hearing the message that with hard work, diligence, and never giving up on yourself, your dreams can become your reality. I would highly recommend Mark Farrell to any school looking for a highly motivating speaker”
Janice Dawer School Counselor/SAC
Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School

Friday Aug 04, 2017
Friday Aug 04, 2017
She’s witty, effervescent and supremely talented. Meet Annie Liest, Artist and Accessible Advocate whose unique perspective has gained the attention of the art world including galleries that display her brilliant work depicting urban spaces, pedestrians and movement. Annie’s subjects are captured solely through her one eye that she says helps her focus and create easier then when she had use of both eyes. When not in her Queens studio bringing her art form to life, Annie can be found advocating for Art Beyond Sight and other vital initiatives advancing opportunities for persons with disabilities. Hear Annie’s journey along with her maiden NYC dj gig that Mark springs on her knowing how much Annie loves music and radio. Check out Annie’s art: www.annieleist.com
If you went to summer camp as a kid then you can relate to Mark’s somewhat unorthodox camp experience when he was the ring leader in raiding neighboring cabins at night and other harmless mischievous acts.
How’s your 401K because you’ll want to buy in at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville retirement homes. Really – this brilliant concept was announced recently and Mark muses on how Jimmy will likely rename some of his classics to reflect the new boomer/Fin community.
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids 2nd – 12th and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
“Mark Farrell presented at our school during The Week of Respect. The students were captivated by his motivating message on perseverance, diversity, and anti-bullying. Our students remained engaged throughout his presentation as he has perfected speaking to students at their developmental level. Mark was flexible to work with and was able to engage with students on a large array of topics. My students greatly benefited from hearing the message that with hard work, diligence, and never giving up on yourself, your dreams can become your reality. I would highly recommend Mark Farrell to any school looking for a highly motivating speaker”
Janice Dawer School Counselor/SAC
Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School

Friday Jul 14, 2017
Friday Jul 14, 2017
Meet Sofiya Cheyenne, actor/dancer/singer/writer and disability advocate. And there’s more- much more. Sofiya is a chair member with Little People of America though don’t let her 4”1” size fool you – she’s a trail blazer and powerhouse of many sorts including her devotion to educating the public on Dwarfism, teaching empathy to teenagers through drama therapy and her determination and resiliency to joyfully dance and sing despite the countless surgeries she endured from a young child to a teenager. Sofiya possesses an effervescence and positivity that’s refreshing and contagious. Listen to her unfathomable story of this remarkable twenty-six year old wonder woman (and newlywed). Sofiya returns in October for Dwarfism Awareness month with her newlywed husband to share their experience with societal perceptions, opinions on the newly approved FDA medicine for Dwarfism and much more.
Ex Christie Allies Bill Baroni and Bridget Kelly get prison time while the Bridgegate mastermind, David Wildstein essentially skates free for merely implicating Baroni and Kelly. Unfair? Mark thinks so and muses about Chris Christies future that he speculates will not be Bridgegate free!
Mark shares his experience with putting powder up his nose for years and discusses how a new product called Coko Loco is cocaine with training wheels though touted as a snortable stimulant that promises focus and energy. Will Dairy Queen start cutting chocolate lines for it’s customers with a hankering for decadence? Mark is glad Tony Montana is spared hearing of this new food fad tragedy.
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids k-12 and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
“Mark truly energized the crowd and engaged the youth in a truly effective way, we were very happy to see the very important anti-bullying message delivered in such a kid-friendly, yet meaningful way. Way to go! Thank you for the experience Mark!”
Daakeia Clarke, Madison Square Garden Company,
Marketing Manager, NY Liberty

Friday Jul 07, 2017
Friday Jul 07, 2017
Crystal Woods life depicts just how incredibly resilient one can be to withstand the most horrific of circumstances. Crystal’s father kidnapped her at 6 when he then began to sexually abuse Crystal into her mid teens. A life filled with constant threats, fear and dread was commonplace for Crystal who describes herself as mostly happy when away from her father during school hours. Hear how Crystal coped including her notion to shoot her father with the gun he kept tucked under his pillow to being free of him, reuniting with her mother and how Crystal has become an incredible parent, and natural bodybuilder. Told publicly for only the second time, Crystal shares her journey from helpless to indomitable helper!
Move over man caves, women are creating their retreats with “she sheds” in backyard. Kids, husband, work, endless household duties taking its toll? Let this oasis be your own private place of Zen. Mark muses on the concept and realizes he should build his wife an escape from – well him.
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase morale, productivity, confidence and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids k-12 and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at:www.markfarrellmotivation.com
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“Mark did a great job with both our group of Life Skills students and our large group of freshmen. Mark’s warm and exuberant personality helps them to feel comfortable with him. Mark’s compassion for the students and his passion for his message are evident throughout his presentation. Mark has a gift for connecting with students quickly and then keeping their attention.”
Kim Knabb, M.A.
School Counselor
Sparta High School

Thursday Jun 22, 2017
Thursday Jun 22, 2017
Model, speaker, reality tv star and Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, Breanne Rice joins Mark and discusses her decision to reveal how Vitiligo an autoimmune disease impacted her personally and professionally. Wearing make-up to photo shoots and never ever leaving home without makeup that disguised her condition is just a slice of Breanne’s life prior to hitting the send button on an Instagram picture that revealed her real face to the world in July 2016. Relieved that she no longer has to hide, Breanne shares her years of secrecy and how she also dealt with a chronic illness that plagued her for years before the onset of Vitiligo. Breanne’s story of suffering and ultimately conquering is empowering. Only 17% of NYC schools are fully accessible for students with physical disabilities. Mark shares his views on this shockingly low number that has students with disabilities compromising academically and socially. Maybe you haven’t found the perfect person to marry because you haven’t considered yourself. What? Introducing sologamy – a new trend on people marrying themselves. Really – invites, white dress, ceremony and reception for those who want to live happily ever after with…(insert sigh sfx here) oneself. Think serial Facebook and other social media platform narcissists.
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids k-12 and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
"Mark invigorated our conference! His genuine enthusiasm and professionalism, combined with an amazing topic, made for a marvelous presentation."
Catharine Leahy - Speakers Chair Pinceton University

Thursday Jun 15, 2017
Thursday Jun 15, 2017
Meet Patti Channer, Executive Producer for the highly anticipated documentary film“Hearing Is Believing”, from award-winning Producer/Director Lorenzo DeStefano who introduces us to the astonishing young musician and composer, Rachel Flowers. This supremely talented musician lost her eyesight due to Retinopathy of Prematurity and at just two she began picking up melodies from her musician parents and was soon playing every song she heard by ear, including Bach fugues. Rachel is pitch perfect and many corroborate this in the film including: Stevie Wonder, Dweezil Zappa, two-time Grammy nominated jazz pianist, Taylor Eigsti, the late Progressive Rock icon Keith Emerson, Hawaii ukulele master Benny Chong. Rachel’s story is unique and she depicts the significance of determination, resiliency and how vital family and community are in shaping this remarkable musical genius. http://www.hearingisbelievingfilm.com/main/ NYC primere at Cinema Village with audio description and Q&A post screenings with film creators and more: https://www.cinemavillage.com/
Have Mark speak at your company or organization to increase moral, productivity and more. Mark also has riveting talks for kids k-12 and college on overcoming adversity, anti-bullying/anti-teasing, mental health, drugs/alcohol, celebrating differences, self-entitlement and more. All of Mark’s talks are from his vast life experience. Reviews, videos, booking info and more at: www.markfarrellmotivation.com
"Mark invigorated our conference! His genuine enthusiasm and professionalism, combined with an amazing topic, made for a marvelous presentation."
Catharine Leahy - Speakers Chair Pinceton University