FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Purdue University Fort Wayne (PFW) has unveiled the lineup for its 2026‑27 Omnibus Speaker Series, a free, community‑focused program designed to inspire residents of all ages. The series will feature three nationally recognized speakers who will share personal stories of perseverance, leadership and achievement.
Series schedule and venue
All three events are scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Auer Performance Hall at PFW’s Music Center. The first presentation will take place on Oct. 15, when actor and comedian Josh Peck will sit down for a moderated conversation about his career in entertainment and his experiences with change and adversity.
Veteran and motivational speaker J.R. Martinez, known for his inspiring talks on resilience, will deliver a keynote on Nov. 5. Martinez’s presentation will focus on the themes of reinvention and overcoming obstacles, drawing from his own journey from combat service to becoming a celebrated public speaker.
The series will close on Feb. 24, 2027, with Olympic bobsled champion Elana Meyers Taylor. The five‑time Olympian and six‑time medalist will discuss her athletic career, the discipline required to reach the podium, and her ongoing pursuit of Olympic excellence.
Free tickets and community access
Tickets are free and available on a first‑come, first‑served basis, with a limit of four tickets per person. While admission is complimentary, online orders will include a $1.50 convenience fee per ticket. The series is open to the public, and PFW encourages families, students and local organizations to attend.
Why the series matters to Fort Wayne
By bringing high‑profile speakers to campus, Purdue Fort Wayne aims to enrich the cultural life of the city and provide role models who exemplify hard work, faith in one’s abilities and dedication to community service. The university’s commitment to free, accessible programming aligns with the values of traditional families and the broader community, offering an educational experience that supports personal growth and civic pride.
Local residents can look forward to engaging discussions that reinforce the importance of perseverance, moral character and the pursuit of excellence—principles that resonate deeply with the Christian‑faith and family‑oriented audience of the HyperLocal Loop.
How to get tickets
Tickets can be claimed through the Purdue Fort Wayne website or by contacting the university’s events office. Attendees are asked to arrive early to ensure seating, as space is limited and the events are expected to draw strong interest from the Fort Wayne community.
For additional details about the Omnibus Speaker Series, including speaker biographies and event updates, please visit the Purdue Fort Wayne events page.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
