Step Inside the room where leadership takes shape.
The USS Constitution Museum Leadership Forum offers a rare opportunity to engage directly with leaders whose stories inspire action. These limited-attendance events are more than just talks – they are up close experiences where ideas are exchanged, questions are welcomed, and connections are made.
Be part of the conversation. Each Forum is a chance to join us at the Museum:
5:30 pm Cocktail Reception
6:00 Program
The Next Forum:
An evening with Nathaniel Philbrick, New York Times Bestselling Author, Historian, and Pulitzer Prize finalist.
November 13, 2025
We are pleased to welcome Nathaniel Philbrick, a historian and sailor who turns pivotal American moments into page-turning narratives. His National Book Award winner In the Heart of the Sea and bestsellers like Mayflower and Bunker Hill have reshaped how we see our maritime and revolutionary past. Based on Nantucket, the former All-American skipper founded the Egan Maritime Institute and keeps exploring leadership and resilience in the American Story.
Upcoming Forums
A Conversation with NCAA President and former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker
February 5, 2026
President of the National Collegiate Athletic Association and Former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker will headline the opening Forum of 2026. Since taking the helm of the NCAA in 2023, he has rolled out sweeping reforms—from post-eligibility insurance and new health-and-academic guarantees to a landmark ESPN media-rights deal—putting student-athletes first while safeguarding the integrity of college sports. Consistently ranked as the most popular governor in America, Baker was celebrated for his bipartisan leadership and pragmatic problem-solving, guiding the Commonwealth to nation-leading rankings in health care, education, and fiscal stewardship. The conversation will explore how vision, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to service turn complex challenges into opportunities—illuminating the values of honor, courage, and commitment that USS Constitution inspires today.
Registration opens January 5, 2026.
Previous Forums:
Astronaut and Retired U.S. Navy Captain Sunita L. Williams in conversation with Meghna Chakrabarti, WBUR Award-Winning Journalist and Host of NPR’s On Point
September 2, 2025
NASA astronaut and Needham native Sunita “Suni” Williams and award-winning WBUR journalist Meghna Chakrabarti led an insightful conversation on preparedness, resilience, and leading when plans change. Drawing on spaceflight and test-pilot experiences, Williams emphasized rigorous training, checklists, and trust in the team, reminding us that “no matter what spacesuit you wear,” leadership begins with character, competence, and care for others. Their insights offered clear takeaways on staying calm under pressure, learning fast, and keeping mission and people at the center.
Retired Brigadier General Jack Hammond, Executive Director of Home Base, in conversation with Colonel (Ret.) Eric DiNoto
April 8, 2025
Retired Brigadier General Jack Hammond and Colonel Eric DiNoto shared a candid and compelling discussion on leading through crisis and transformation. From battlefield decision-making to building Home Base’s national model for veteran care, their insights underscored the importance of resilience, growth, and staying mission-driven.
Commander Crystal L. Schaefer, 78th Commanding Officer of USS Constitution in conversation with Ann Lagasse, Co-Principal of Ocean Havens
February 6, 2025
In a powerful opening session, Commander Crystal Schaefer, the current Commanding Officer of USS Constitution, joined Ann Lagasse, Co-Principal of Ocean Havens, to reflect on leadership organizations and communities that honor history. Their conversation explored courage, mentorship, and the responsibility of paving the way for others.
