The Next Verse
An exclusive gathering of public affairs leaders shaping the next era of business, government, and community.
Where consequential conversations find their next line.
The Next Verse is not a conventional public affairs conference. It's an intimate leadership gathering for people navigating geopolitical complexity, shaping stakeholder strategy, and building enduring enterprises.
Set against the contemporary energy of Nashville, the experience blends serious dialogue, gracious hospitality, and the creative spirit of a city built on original voices.
It's about possibility, leadership, and the future we're building together.
Executives from these organizations are already registered
Original voices. Consequential perspectives.
Vantage Road Partners
Chair, Public Affairs Council
More voices will join the verse.
Additional signature speakers, featured voices, and Nashville experiences will be announced as the program develops.
A carefully composed three-day experience.
The program will continue to evolve as signature speakers and experiences are confirmed.
Verse One · Tuesday, October 27
Setting the Stage
Arrival & Registration
Registration and arrival at the Thompson Nashville.
Behind the Brand: Leadership, Community & Public Affairs in Professional Sports
Lester Bagley, Minnesota Vikings
Adolpho Birch, Tennessee Titans
Erin Swartz, Tennessee Titans
Explore leadership, community, reputation and public affairs through the lens of professional sports.
Nissan Stadium Tour
Behind-the-scenes experience at Nissan Stadium.
Opening Gathering & Dinner
Opening evening at Analog at the Hutton.
Verse Two · Wednesday, October 28
Understanding the Shift
We are in the midst of a generational economic and political transformation in the United States and globally. This moment is fueled by changing media and information environments, the AI revolution, intense market pressure on businesses, surging populism and geopolitical realignment.
Welcome to Verse Two
Nneka Chiazor, Public Affairs Council
U.S. Political Volatility: Navigating and Finding Opportunity in this Era
Nathan Gonzales, Inside Elections
What's the Next Verse for Business?
Jim McCann, 1-800-Flowers
Courtney Geduldig, Vantage Road Partners
Lisa Osborne Ross, former U.S. CEO of Edelman
Moderated by: David Curran, The Great Atlantic
Lunch with Award-Winning Songwriter
Natalie Hemby, The Highwomen
The Next Verse of Political Influence Strategies
Jonathan Zucker, Democracy Engine
Trey Richardson, SAGAC Public Affairs
Moderated by: Patrick Newton, National Association of REALTORS®
AI Impacts Today and Beyond
Michael Rogers, Practical Futurist
Bhaskar Chakravorti, The Fletcher School at Tufts University
Moderated by: Erik Hower, AT&T
Closed Board Session
Headshots
Optional: Our photographer will be set up to take updated headshots for attendees
Recognition Dinner
Margery Kraus, APCO (Honoree)
Nneka Chiazor, Public Affairs Council
Scott Orr, Fidelity Investments; Chair, Public Affairs Council
Verse Three · Thursday, October 29
Understanding the Shift
Building on the previous day, our sessions during Verse Three will drill down deeper on our changing media and information environments, as well as how the referees in our public affairs arena – members of the judiciary – are shaping this moment.
Article III Coalition: What's Next for the Rule of Law
Judge Bernice Donald, Burch, Porter & Johnson
Judge Robert Kugler, JAMS
Judge Ursula Ungaro, JAMS
Moderated by: Mike Schaengold, Article III Coalition
Where is the Evolving Media Landscape Headed?
Jessica Yellin, News Not Noise
Moderated by: Michael MacKay, Bloomberg Government
Closed Board Session
Program, speakers, and timing are subject to refinement as the convening approaches.
Register
Due to limited capacity, registration is reserved for invited participants and will be confirmed in advance.
Register by October 6 to save!
Sign Up NowNonmembers
Join the Council today, and save by registering at the member rate and using the $300 new-member coupon you will receive. Contact our membership team for information about joining the Council. Questions? Contact us at 202.787.5950.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation deadline for full refund is October 6.
Cancellations received between October 7 and October 17 will be charged a $200 administrative fee.
Cancellations received between October 18 and October 22 will receive a 50% refund.
No refunds or credits will be granted on or after October 23.
Please visit our Conference Policies page for a full breakdown.
Questions?
See our Conference Policies
