FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(ELGIN, IL – October 2, 2024) – The Right Honourable Stephen J. Harper, 22nd Prime Minister of Canada, headlined the 2024 World Leaders Forum on October 2 on the campus of Judson University. Mr. Harper’s main topic was the current state of global politics and in particular the impact of the upcoming United States presidential election.
“The genius of your Founding Fathers was to create a system where it was very difficult to do anything politically without consensus, so that in the absence of consensus, people with energy and enterprise would get on with solving the problems of their own lives,” Harper stated during his opening remarks. “And I can tell you this as someone who has been around the globe, both in the world of politics and in the world of economics – there is nothing in the world even today that compares to the dynamism and the scale of the American entrepreneurial community.”
Harper’s keynote address captivated the audience, offering rich insights into global leadership and his personal experiences navigating Canada through a decade of complex challenges. Harper emphasized the need for resilience and adaptability in leaders, particularly in today’s unpredictable global climate.
The event was hosted by Rich Lowry, editor in chief of The National Review. The program include remarks from World Leaders Forum Board of Directors Chair and Editor-in-Chief of Illinois Review, formals remarks from Mr. Haper, and then an engaging question-and-answer session with Harper and Lowry that featured questions from the audience. Participants asked about global cooperation, economic strategy, and Harper’s thoughts on how today’s leaders can foster stability in an increasingly polarized world.
Harper’s words left a lasting impression. “Anything we face today—when we have more wealth, more people, and are living longer, healthier lives; when freedom and democracy remain models for the world; and when a technological revolution is transforming human existence—everything is possible if we constrain human rebellion against God and keep our political mistakes to a reasonable clout.”
Judson University alumnus Tom McCoy and his wife Jade drove from Marshalltown, Iowa to attend the event. McCoy who is a member of the Judson University Alumni Board of Directors said of the event, “I’m amazed that we have world leaders in here, but we also have a lot of common people in here that do a lot of great things for Judson and for people around the world. I was able to sit with a student from Spain which was wonderful and got to know him. The next thing I know I’m shaking the hand of a former prime minister. It was really a beautiful evening. ”
Judson University student, Katherine Breinig remarked, “Hearing Mr.Harpers perspective on the geopolitical climate and the deep understanding of the US’s politics was amazing to see. It is encouraging when we have leaders who understand how the world works and fights for right. Mr. Harper also gave 3 big trends in the world and 3 trends that are optimistic. Seeing the negative and positive in the world is a good balance.
Judson University President Dr. Gene Crume expressed his gratitude for Harper’s contribution to the forum, stating, “Prime Minister Harper’s message deeply resonated with our audience. His experiences and leadership insights were not only informative but also inspiring. It was a remarkable night, and we are thrilled that so many people had the opportunity to take part.”
Proceeds from the event will fund student scholarships at the university as well as provide support for Judson’s Roeser Scholars and RISE programs, ensuring that future leaders continue to benefit from educational opportunities that foster growth, integrity, and vision.
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About Judson University:
Located in Elgin, Illinois, since 1963, Judson University offers a Christian liberal arts and sciences education through its Bachelor of Arts degrees in more than 60 majors, minors, graduate programs, and online courses, as well as certification and accelerated adult degree programs. For more information, visit JudsonU.edu.
Contact: Mayra Lopez, World Leaders Forum: [email protected]