Laura Jackson Endowed Lectureship in World Issues
The Laura Blanche Jackson Lectureship in World Issues was established in 1995 by Laura's parents, Frank and Darba Jackson and many other family members and friends. In memory of Laura, the lectureship is dedicated to piecing together a larger picture of the individual issues that contribute to today's world affairs.
"AI and the Future of Us: Navigating the Promise and Perils of Artificial Intelligence"
September 29 | 7:00 p.m. | McClinton Auditorium
ABOUT THERESA PAYTON
Theresa Payton is a trailblazer in technology and cybersecurity, making history as the first female White House Chief Information Officer, under President George W. Bush. She’s recognized as one of the world’s top advisors on secured digital transformation, AI and privacy, consulting Fortune 500 boards, CEOs, and technology executives to safeguard critical assets and navigate complex digital challenges. Because she’s the go-to expert among network television news programs and other major media outlets for her broad cybercrime-fighting knowledge, relatable persona and ability to make complex technology understandable, she starred as Deputy Commander of Intelligence on the CBS TV reality hide-and-seek show, “Hunted.” She’s also CEO and chief advisor of a leading digital security firm, Fortalice.
Previous lecture presenters include:
- David Beasley (2025)
- Dr. Jeff Polet (2024)
- Kyle Harper (2023)
- Dr. Hal Brands (2022)
- Dr. Katharine Hayhoe (2021)
- Mr. Victor Boutros (2019)
- Mr. Kenneth M. Pollack (2018)
- Mr. George Walden (2017)
- Professor Timothy Samuel Shah (2016)
- Professor Robert P. George (2015)
- The Honorable Andrew H. Card, Jr. and Mr. Terry Teachout (2014, Lecture held in Spring and Fall)
- Dr. Peter Berkowitz (2013)
- Dr. David M. Lampton (2012)
- Dr. Michael Mandelbaum (2011)
- Dr. George Weigel (2010)
- Dr. Andrew C. Kuchins (2008)
- Dr. Robert J. Lieber(2007)
- Prof. Charles Hill (2006)
- Dr. Harvey Sicherman(2005)
- Dr. Michael Mandelbaum (2004)
- Dr. Beth Dougherty (2003)
- Prof. H. William Brands(2002)
- Mr. Paul Bell (2001)
- Ms. Julianna Lindsey and Dr. Harlan Cleveland (2000)
- Ms. Elena Poniatowska Amor (1999)
- Dr. Grant T. Hammond (1998)
- Dr. Paul Mojzes (1997)
- Dr. Gordon Smith (1996)
- Sir Robert Rhodes James (1995)