Programs : Speakers Bureau

Big Ideas, Real People

Speakers Bureau connects you with fascinating topics both in-person and online. In towns across the state of every size, our speakers present hundreds of events each year on topics like Northwest rock n’ roll, Black activism in Washington State, turning deceased loved ones into A.I., the history of our state’s iconic oysters, and much more.

Meet the 2024-25 Speakers

Collage of Speakers Bureau presenter headshots.

“Thank you for creating such a beautiful space to come together, create, and converse.”

– Speakers Bureau audience member

About Speakers Bureau

Our 40 speakers are professors, artists, historians, journalists, and others. They’re not only experts in their fields, but they inspire people of all ages and backgrounds. Talks are presented in partnership libraries, museums, and other cultural institutions. All are free and open to the public, and each talk lasts around an hour. Check out our calendar to find an event, or look into bringing a speaker to your town.

Interested in becoming a speaker? We hold auditions for new speakers every two years. The next process will take place in spring 2027.

 

 

Host a Speaker

Learn how to bring a presention to your library, museum, or community venue.

More

collage of current speakers

Upcoming Speakers Bureau Events

November 19, 2025 @1pm Seattle In Person

IN PERSON: Hollywood and the Blacklist Era

November 21, 2025 @6:30pm Bremerton Hybrid

HYBRID: Hollywood and the Blacklist Era

November 23, 2025 @1pm Bainbridge Island In Person

IN PERSON: Hollywood and the Blacklist Era

December 6, 2025 @11am Forks In Person

IN PERSON: Resisting Erasure through Storytelling

December 9, 2025 @6pm Seattle In Person

IN PERSON: How to Write a Family Portrait

Support

Speakers Bureau is made possible with support from the State of Washington via the Office of the Secretary of State, the Thomas S. Foley Institute of Public Policy and Public Service at Washington State University, and generous contributions from other businesses, foundations, and individuals. 4Culture provides supportĀ  for Speakers Bureau in King County, ensuring attendance remains free for the public.