Governors Stitt and Moore come from very different backgrounds—and that was precisely the point. Stitt, the son of pastors, built a successful business before entering public service. Moore, only the third African American elected governor in our nation’s history, is a Rhodes Scholar whose life reflects both profound hardship and extraordinary achievement. Different parties, different paths—but both described the same calling: service. Seeing them share a stage was a reminder that unity is not the absence of difference, but the presence of shared purpose.

At a time when division dominates the headlines, their conversation felt grounding. As the nation approaches 250, what unites us remains greater than what divides us. The desire for long life, prosperity, and opportunity for our families is universal.

One part of the conversation focused on infrastructure, and it was particularly striking. In the wake of the Francis Scott Key Bridge catastrophe in Maryland in 2024, Governor Moore observed: “You can’t build the bridge you built in 1975 now.” Our roads, bridges, and ports were designed for a different era. Modernization is no longer optional—it is imperative.

Governor Stitt reinforced that urgency through the lens of energy security, noting that China built more coal-powered plants last year than the rest of the world combined. His point was clear: America must remain competitive and realistic about the role of oil and gas in powering our economy.

But I kept thinking: it’s not only our physical infrastructure that needs renewal. Our trust infrastructure does too. Across America—and around the world—the bridges linking business, community, and society are under strain—precisely where public affairs leadership operates. Rebuilding civic faith requires new architecture: frameworks that strengthen legitimacy, accountability, and shared responsibility. The bridge is both a structure and a promise, and we need to repair both.

On a lighter note, I admit I fangirled a bit. I watch David Rubenstein’s Bloomberg show regularly and meeting him in person did not disappoint. He is every bit as witty and intellectually generous as he appears on screen. I even managed a selfie.

I was grateful to connect with Council members and board colleagues throughout the afternoon and to close with a group photo courtesy of Jennifer Wieroniey of Michelin. On a day devoted to reflection, I was reminded that leadership grounded in service—and institutions committed to rebuilding trust—are not just inspiring. They are essential.