Thursday Evening Speaker Series

  • Immigrant Rights in Michigan

    Immigrant Rights in Michigan

    Thursday, April 9, 2026 | 6:00-7:30pm

    Lexi Andre, Attorney - Michigan Immigrant Rights Center

    Immigration has long been a topic of political debate in the United States of America, but the current socio-political climate has brought this issue to the forefront. Come to Next and learn about the current status and rights of immigrants in Michigan. Attorney Lexi Andre will provide a detailed explanation of the work that the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center (MIRC) does on behalf of this vulnerable population. Attendees will learn factual information about the laws of the state of Michigan and the federal government regarding immigration, and about the prevailing issues facing immigrants today. Generously sponsored by Shaun Shaya, with Shaya Realty and KW Domain.

  • A Virtual Tour Through Stunning Scandinavia

    A Virtual Tour Through Stunning Scandinavia

    Thursday, April 16, 2026 | 6:00-7:30pm

    Join us at Next for an evening of pure enjoyment as we journey through beautiful Scandinavia. We will experience awe inspiring landscapes, quaint villages, and frigid fjords. Then, visit the magnificent harbors capitals: Stockholm, Oslo and Copenhagen to explore their historical roles as cultural and trading hubs. This is a singular opportunity to enjoy the diverse beauty of Scandinavia with experienced lecturer Arnie Collens, as he takes us on a visual exploration of his travels through these stunning countries. This program is generously sponsored by Arden Courts.

  • Human Trafficking

    Human Trafficking

    Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 6:00-7:30pm

    Due to a scheduling conflict, Karen McDonald has canceled her April 23 appearance at Next. 

    Instead, please join us for a presentation with Cindy Brown, Chief of the Trafficking Division at the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office. 

    Ms. Brown has also worked in the Warrants Division, Child Sexual Assault Unit, Special Victims Unit, District Court Division, Circuit Court Division, and Drug Unit.

    Ms. Brown is an instructor at the Oakland Police Academy, a member of the Oakland County Commissioner’s Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force, and received the Oakland County Coordinating Council Against Domestic Violence Prevention Award, Troy Police Department Civilian Commendation Award, and the Zonta International Women’s Day Leadership Award. Join us at Next to see how Oakland County is working to address the pervasive problem of human trafficking.

  • Presidents and the Press

    Presidents and the Press

    Thursday, April 30, 2026 | 6:00-7:30pm

    Sometimes collaborative, sometimes strained, and sometimes downright combative – a president’s relationship with the press is always an issue of socio-political interest. The press, on their part, have a responsibility to gather and report on information collected from the highest executive office holder in the country. One thing is certain – the relationship between presidents and news outlets isn’t going away any time soon. Join popular lecturer Bruce Zellers as he explores the history behind presidents and the press, and how that history informs modern times. This program is generously sponsored by Waltonwood University and Waltonwood Royal Oak.