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Northwestern University School of Professional Studies

Thought Leadership Series

Learn From Experts From a Variety of Fields

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Welcome to the Northwestern University School of Professional Studies Thought Leadership Series! As we mark 175 years of Northwestern's commitment to educational excellence and innovation, the series brings together pioneering faculty, industry experts, and accomplished alumni to explore topics that bridge academic insight with real-world industry experience. Join us for upcoming sessions as we examine the emerging trends and strategies driving change across industries worldwide.

Thought Leadership Series events are free to attend and open to the public, however registration is required.

Upcoming Thought Leadership Series Events

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Public Policy in Practice: Advancing Equity Through Government

Please join Northwestern University School of Professional Studies (SPS) for an online thought leadership panel exploring how professionals working in municipal government, county administration, advocacy, and related fields use policy and public service to advance equity. Northwestern MA in Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) alumni, students, and faculty will discuss how to address today’s most pressing social issues through thoughtful leadership, policymaking, and public service.

Date: Wednesday, October 28
Time: Noon to 1 p.m. CT
Location: Online (Zoom)

REGISTER NOW

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The Startup Journey: Lessons from Young Entrepreneurs

A panel discussion on the startup journey, featuring young entrepreneurs sharing their experiences turning ideas into businesses, navigating early challenges, finding partners and mentors, raising capital, and adapting along the way.

Thursday, November 5, Noon–1 p.m. CT

Location: Online (Zoom)

Registration link to come

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The Graduate School Question: Navigating Education and Career Advancement

A panel conversation exploring the value of graduate education today, what prospective students should consider when deciding whether graduate school is right for them, and alternative pathways for career advancement, such as graduate certificates. Featuring SPS academic leadership, faculty, students, and alumni

TBD – January, Noon–1 p.m. CT

Location: Online (Zoom)

Registration link to come

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Professional Storytelling: Communicating Your Experience with Impact

An interactive professional development session focused on helping participants identify and communicate their unique professional story, connecting their experiences, skills, and goals into a compelling narrative for potential employers.

TBD – March, Noon–1 p.m. CT

Location: Wieboldt Hall, 339 E. Chicago Avenue, Chicago

Registration link to come

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Professional Refresh: Headshots & LinkedIn Profile Reviews

An in-person professional development event offering complimentary headshots and brief LinkedIn profile reviews to help participants refresh and strengthen their professional presence.

TBD – July, time TBD

Location: Wieboldt Hall, 339 E. Chicago Avenue, Chicago

Registration link to come

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Chicago Campus   |   Evanston Campus


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Parking

Chicago Campus

Discounted parking rates are available to students on weekdays from 4:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (the same night) or weekends from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The discount is available at the Erie Ontario Garage and Huron Superior Garage. Visit the Chicago Parking Office web pages for details.

Evanston Campus

SPS students may park without a parking permit in most "F" Parking Lots on the Evanston campus, after 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and all weekend. Students should refer to the signs at the parking lot to be certain. Do not at any time park in a reserved space. Campus maps indicating appropriate parking lots are available online or at Northwestern University School of Professional Studies office, 405 Church Street, Evanston. SPS students who wish to park on campus before 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, should go to the Parking Office at 1841 Sheridan Rd (in the same building as the Segal Visitor Center) to purchase a one-day parking permit.

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