The keynote speaker Matthew Dowd is a well-known and respected cultural commentator and strategist. For the past 30 years, he has helped shape strategies and campaigns for CEOs, corporations, foundations, governments, candidates, and presidents. He currently serves as chief political analyst for ABC News where he appears on This Week, Good Morning America, and Nightline. He regularly contributes to publications including National Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Christian Science Monitor, and The Huffington Post. He is also the author of the 2017 book A New Way: Embracing the Paradox as We Lead and Serve, which examines the role of leadership in disruptive times, and the creator of the online community “Listen.To.Us.”, which brings like-minded individuals together to discuss politics and government. Matthew served as a Board member of Seton/Ascension and also chaired the Mission Committee.

“He uses his wealth of experience and knowledge to provide audiences with a view of America today and the ways our political, economic, and social institutions need to respond—covering not only politics but cultural, economic, and spiritual trends. His plea for politicians today is that they place country above party.”