UBC Connects speaker series to launch with economist Jeremy Rifkin

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To: Faculty and staff in Vancouver and the Okanagan

I am pleased to announce the launch of UBC Connects, a new public lecture series featuring thought leaders of global renown. We are delighted to welcome acclaimed economic theorist Jeremy Rifkin, author of The Third Industrial Revolution, as the inaugural speaker. The series is made possible with the generous support of the R & J Stern Family Foundation.

As a top-ranked international research university, UBC is deeply connected to the world of big ideas. In a climate of fake news, social isolation and spiritual apathy, this broad-ranging series is designed to connect our communities — both local and global — to the bold thinkers who are helping to shed light on the world’s most pressing issues.

The 2018 lectures will be held in Vancouver, and expanded to the Okanagan in the spring of 2019. Sessions will also be shared online. While visiting UBC, each speaker will also lead a session with faculty and students to allow a more fulsome exploration of their topics.

Tickets will be available to our faculty, staff, students and alumni in advance of public sales. There will be limited free seating for UBC students at each event on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit ubc.ca/ubcconnects for tickets and information, and watch UBC Today for news about upcoming speakers.

Please join me to hear Jeremy Rifkin on Thursday, March 8, 6:30 pm, at the Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre.

Professor Santa J. Ono
President and Vice-Chancellor