Thursday Evening Speaker Series

  • 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.

  • Judaism and Christianity

    Judaism and Christianity

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

    Rabbi Mark Miller, Senior Rabbi of Temple Beth El

    Join us at Next for an in-depth exploration of Judaism and Christianity with Rabbi Mark Miller. There are many similarities between the two religions, but also many differences! Rabbi Miller possesses a deep understanding of scripture and will walk the audience through the distinctions and shared history and beliefs of these two ancient religious traditions. Audience members will gain a greater understanding and appreciation for both religions, as well as an awareness of how religion embodies the human striving for holiness and goodness. This lecture will educate, inspire, and raise awareness.

    Next will offer this presentation at no cost to our guests. All are welcome! 

  • Russia’s War with Ukraine

    Russia's War with Ukraine

    Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 6:00-7:30pm

    Aaron Retish, Professor of Russian and Soviet History at Wayne State University

    A political and social enigma, Russia remains a mystery in so many ways. Come to Next to gain a rare understanding of this world superpower with Professor Aaron Retish, who is an author or editor of five books on 20th century Russia, and has published several articles on the Russian Revolution. This complex country launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022, and the conflict continues to this day. This lecture will offer an informed breakdown of Russian society, politics, economics, and conflict strategy. This program is generously sponsored by American House Stone.

  • Data Centers Explained

    Data Centers Explained

    Thursday, May 21, 2026 | 6:00-8:00pm

    John Richter

    You have probably heard about the growing controversy surrounding data centers, which have increased in both size and prevalence across the world. With the growth of artificial intelligence, data center construction has exploded, along with devastating environmental and financial consequences. As communities and environmental organizations fight to keep these centers from being built, will AI development be slowed? Will we all have to pay more on for utility bills, subsidizing giant tech companies ? Come and learn about data centers and how they impact all of us with John Richter, who serves on the Board of Directors and as Policy Analyst of The Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association (GLREA). This program is generously sponsored by American House Stone.

  • The Forever Chemical Impacting All of Us

    The Forever Chemical Impacting All of Us

    Thursday, May 28, 2026 | 6:00-7:30pm

    Attorney Tony Spaniola

    PFAS has been found in our water, our food, and in the blood of nearly every human on the planet. You’ve heard it in the news, but come to Next and get the full story from Tony Spaniola, a Troy attorney who became a leading national PFAS expert - and community advocate - after learning in 2016 that his Oscoda cottage is impacted by PFAS contamination from the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base. Tony has played a critical role in the adoption of numerous key PFAS policies at the state and federal levels, including the first-ever national PFAS drinking water standards in 2024. Tony is co-founder and co-chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network. He has presented at the White House Water Summit; the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine; and in testimony before the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. He also has been featured in various media outlets, including ABC News, PBS News, CNBC and USA Today - and in the critically acclaimed PFAS film documentary, “No Defense: The U.S. Military's War On Water.” Generosly sponsored by Amada Home Care.

  • Is the United States’ Hegemony on the Brink of Collapse?

    Is the United States' Hegemony on the Brink of Collapse?

    Thursday, June 4, 2026 | 6:00-7:30pm

    Breaking with decades of effort in building a global economy, the United States has implemented a strategy of isolationism, abandoning alliances, dismantling global trade, and adding billions to the national debt. With the U.S. military strikes in Iran, conflict has become rife and widespread in the Middle East, further impacting U.S. oil prices, regional stability, and the economy. What does the future look like for a global economy that has been dominated by the United States for such a long time? And in what form will the U.S. emerge from these decisions? International affairs lecturer Gus Mondalek will explore the future of U.S. hegemony and offer insight on the repercussions of its new outlook. This program is generously sponsored by Waltonwood University.

  • Species Survival: Panamanian Golden Frog Program at the Detroit Zoo

    Species Survival: Panamanian Golden Frog Program at the Detroit Zoo

    Thursday, June 11, 2026 | 6:00-7:30pm

    Breaking with decades of effort in building a global economy, the United States has implemented a strategy of isolationism, abandoning alliances, dismantling global trade, and adding billions to the national debt. With the U.S. military strikes in Iran, conflict has become rife and widespread in the Middle East, further impacting U.S. oil prices, regional stability, and the economy. What does the future look like for a global economy that has been dominated by the United States for such a long time? And in what form will the U.S. emerge from these decisions? International affairs lecturer Gus Mondalek will explore the future of U.S. hegemony and offer insight on the repercussions of its new outlook. This program is generously sponsored by Waltonwood University.

  • Lincoln: America’s Greatest President?

    Lincoln: America's Greatest President?

    Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 6:00-7:30pm

    Professor Bruce Zellers

    Abraham Lincoln is widely considered by historians and the public to be the greatest U.S. president. He is praised for navigating the Civil War, preserving the Union, and ending slavery, often ranking first in surveys alongside George Washington. However, some critics argue his legacy is romanticized, and others criticize his policies toward Native Americans or his suspension of civil liberties during the war. Join popular lecturer Bruce Zellers as he explores and explains this beloved president and separates history from mythology. This program is generously sponsored by American House Stone. 

  • Latin Music Rhythms

    Latin Music Rhythms

    Thursday, June 25, 2026 | 6:00-7:30pm

    Remember when the buzz of the Super Bowl centered on reggaeton music? Latin rhythms are not only creative and catchy, they are pervasive in many of the songs you hear on the radio! Come and learn the rich history of Latin music, which has roots in music traditions across the globe. This lecture will also explore the cultural traditions and complex composition that are intrinsic to Latin music. Professor Patrick Fitzgibbon is an accomplished percussionist, performer, composer, and scholar. He will take the audience through a fascinating presentation on Latin music that might leave you dancing in your seat! This presentation is generously sponsored by American House Stone.