WHO:
This August, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History continues its acclaimed lecture series, The Wright Conversations, with a special appearance by businessman and philanthropist Robert F. Smith. In the months to come, the Museum will host an exciting lineup of influential figures from the worlds of literature, law, music, dance, and more—offering thought-provoking conversations and unforgettable cultural experiences.
WHAT:
Engage your mind with our curated collection of events featuring dynamic speakers chosen by Neil A. Barclay, President of the Charles H. Wright Museum. The Wright Conversations brings insightful and robust discussions to the Detroit community, addressing critical topics in civic engagement, art, history, and culture.
Experience the arts in our newly renovated theater at The Wright. This intimate venue, seating up to 284 guests, offers an exceptional view from every angle. For our inaugural season, we've carefully curated a collection of multi-disciplinary performances and lectures by celebrated local and national talent, showcasing the depth and diversity of artistic expression.
WHERE:
The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History 315 Warren Ave., Detroit MI 48201 313-494-5800
WHEN:
Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 5:30 PM
WHY:
The Wright Conversations and Performances are a curated collection of events featuring dynamic speakers and performers chosen by the President & CEO of the Charles H. Wright Museum, Neil A. Barclay. Dedicated to bringing insightful and robust conversation and entertainment to the Detroit community, these series address critical topics in the areas of civic engagement, art, history, and culture.
About the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History was founded in 1965 and is in the heart of Midtown Detroit’s Cultural Center. The Wright Museum’s mission is to open minds and change lives through the exploration and celebration of African American history and culture. And Still We Rise: Our Journey Through African American History and Culture — the museum’s 22,000 square foot, immersive core exhibit — is one of the largest, single exhibitions surveying the history of African Americans. The Wright Museum houses over 35,000 artifacts and archival materials and offers more than 300 public programs and events annually.
About Robert F. Smith
Robert F. Smith is an American investor, philanthropist and entrepreneur. He leads Vista Equity Partners, a global technology investor that specializes in enterprise software.
Throughout his life, Smith’s commitments to philanthropy and equality of opportunity have never wavered and finding ways to make a difference in the communities where he lives and works is central to his character and approach to life. During his 2019 commencement address at Morehouse College, a Historically Black College, Smith committed to eliminating the student loan debt of the graduating class and later expanded his gift to eliminate student loan debt held by the students’ guardians on their behalf. Smith holds many board positions – he is the Chairman of Carnegie Hall and Student Freedom Initiative (SFI), co-lead of Southern Communities Initiative (SCI) and the founding director and President of Fund II Foundation. In addition, he is a major donor to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the King Center, his alma maters, Cornell University and Columbia University, and the Sphinx Organization, among many others. Smith was honored by being listed as one of Forbes’ 100 Greatest Living Business Minds in 2017 and TIME100’s “Most Influential People” in 2020.
Media Contacts:
Char Yates, Dir. Media Relations
cyates@thewright.org
313.494.5839
Kelly Miner, Marketing & Communications Manager
kminer@thewright.org
313.494.5865
Lead Boldly: A Conversation with Robert F. Smith
Join us on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at 5:30 PM in the General Motors Theater.
Lead Boldly: A Conversation with Robert F. Smith
Join us on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at 5:30 PM in the General Motors Theater.