Award winning journalist, author and philanthropist, Dan Rather will discuss the upcoming Presidential Election and what it might mean for Michigan. A veteran White House correspondent, who covered President Ford, and author of The American Dream, Rather confirms what our founding fathers always believed: “that we are a country of visionaries, in ways big and small.”

How is vision essential to Michigan’s transformation – especially when it is a national vision led by a new president? Launching our conference theme of Achieving Michigan’s Transformation, this session will address how we can all be visionaries for Michigan and the nation.

Presented in partnership with the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies at Grand Valley State University and the Gerald R. Ford Foundation.

Author of The Difference, Professor Scott Page believes that when we peer out of our silos and see people doing strange things with the ketchup, we should see opportunity and possibility. He shows - using logic not metaphor - that progress depends as much on our collective differences as it does on our individual IQ scores.

Page will share his fundamental insight – that in problem solving, diversity is powerful stuff – with foundation leader panelists in a provocative discussion that will change the way we think about diversity and its role in Michigan’s Transformation.

In spring 2007, the Center for Michigan began asking residents how well Michigan is transforming its economy, government and social systems during this complex time of change, challenge and global competition as part of its Michigan's Defining Moment (MDM) campaign.

In this session, conference attendees will participate in an MDM Community Conversation and become part of the 10,000 residents the campaign plans to engage by 2010. An Envision Michigan story contest winner will also share his essay of hopeful vision for Michigan’s future.

America has become a connected nation of 363 metropolitan areas – defining a blueprint for America’s prosperity. More than two-thirds of Michigan’s 10 million residents live in five metro area counties. Join a conversation about the role philanthropy can play in the four vital ingredients necessary for prosperous metro areas and Michigan’s transformation: innovation, human capital, infrastructure and quality places.

The media reminds us that this is a time of great adversity for Michiganders. How can one individual or one foundation make a difference and be involved in Michigan’s transformation? Join legendary activists and philanthropists in an inspirational conversation about creativity and activism and how both are vital to overcoming adversity and capitalizing on opportunities for transformation.