The Richard G. Lugar Speaker Series launched its 2025 season on September 25th with a sold-out crowd at Marian University’s theater. The evening began with a reception hosted by Marian University President Daniel Elsener, who brought together two of Indiana’s most recognized public leaders, former Governor Eric Holcomb and former U.S. Senator and Ambassador Joe Donnelly, for a thoughtful discussion on civics, public service, and economics. The conversation was moderated by Robert Vane, president of Veteran Strategies.
Donnelly, a Democrat, represented Indiana in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2007 to 2013 and later in the U.S. Senate from 2013 to 2019. Most recently, he served as United States Ambassador to the Holy See from 2022 to 2024.
Holcomb, a Republican, served as Indiana’s 51st governor from 2017 to 2025, following his earlier service as lieutenant governor under then-Governor Mike Pence. He was first elected to the state’s highest office in 2016 and won reelection in 2020.
Powered by Marian University’s Penny and Jock Fortune Institute for Civic Leadership and Capitalism, the Lugar Speaker Series continues the legacy of Senator Richard G. Lugar by fostering conversations around civic leadership, civic engagement, and the responsibilities of public service. The Fortune Scholars Program, housed within the institute, is preparing the next generation of leaders to build a thriving society through active participation in civic life.
You can watch the video HERE
