An Evening with Kenneth I. Chenault: Equal to the Task

An Evening with Ken Chenault: Equal to the Task

In Conversation with Valerie Jarrett

Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Location: Obama Presidential Center
Venue: Elie Wiesel Auditorium
Address: 6011 S. Stony Island Ave., Chicago, IL

Tickets: $35 — Includes a signed copy of Equal to the Task and a photo opportunity with Kenneth I. Chenault.

Join us for an extraordinary evening with Ken Chenault, renowned business leader, Chairman and Managing Director of General Catalyst, and author of the compelling memoir Equal to the Task, in conversation with The Honorable Valerie Jarrett, CEO of The Obama Foundation and former Senior Advisor to President Barack Obama.

Set against the backdrop of Chicago's South Side, this special event will bring together two distinguished leaders for a thought-provoking conversation about leadership, ambition, mentorship, legacy, and the values that shape our lives and careers.

Through reflections on his remarkable personal and professional journey, Chenault will share insights from Equal to the Task, exploring how he navigated opportunities and challenges on his path from growing up in an America shaped by segregation to becoming one of the most prominent leaders in corporate America.

For nearly two decades, Chenault served as Chairman and CEO of American Express, guiding the company through a period of innovation and growth. After leaving American Express, he embarked on a new chapter in venture capital, helping build enduring companies that bring together technological innovation and purpose.

In conversation with Jarrett, Chenault will reflect on the people and principles that shaped his leadership, the importance of recognizing potential in ourselves and others, and the responsibility to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, business professional, emerging leader, student, avid reader, or someone interested in the intersections of leadership and service, this is an opportunity to hear firsthand from two influential voices whose work spans business, public service, and civic life.

About the Book: Equal to the Task

For the first time, one of the world's most iconic business leaders shares the story of his remarkable life and career.

Born in 1951, when segregation remained embedded in American life and law, Kenneth Chenault came of age during a period of profound change. Over the next five decades, he rose to the highest levels of corporate America, ultimately leading American Express for nearly two decades.In this thoughtful memoir, Chenault reflects on his personal journey, the mentors who helped shape his path, and the values that guided him along the way. He also shares his decision to pursue a new chapter in venture capital, supporting companies that harness technology for both profit and purpose.

Equal to the Task is a story about perseverance, possibility, responsible leadership, and the responsibility we carry to contribute to something greater than ourselves.

Meet the Author: Ken Chenault

Kenneth I. Chenault is Chairman and a Managing Director of General Catalyst, where he works with fast-growing companies seeking to build enduring institutions. He provides strategic guidance to portfolio companies, particularly those navigating global markets and responsible innovation.Before joining General Catalyst, Chenault served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of American Express from 2001 to 2018. During his tenure, the company strengthened its global brand and expanded its celebrated Membership Rewards program while earning recognition for its commitment to customer service.

His leadership and civic engagement have earned widespread recognition. Fortune named him one of the World's 50 Greatest Leaders, and he was included alongside Ken Frazier in TIME's 100 Most Influential People of 2021 for their corporate and social activism. Chenault also co-founded SkillsRight, formerly OneTen, an initiative focused on expanding career opportunities for talent without four-year degrees.

He serves on the boards of several prominent organizations, including Berkshire Hathaway and Airbnb, and has contributed to numerous civic, educational, and cultural institutions. He holds a JD from Harvard Law School and a BA in history from Bowdoin College.

Meet the Moderator: The Honorable Valerie JarrettThe Honorable Valerie Jarrett is Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of The Obama Foundation, where she oversees the development of a world-class cultural and civic institution on Chicago's South Side and the Foundation's domestic and international leadership programs.

From 2009 to 2017, Jarrett served as Senior Advisor to President Barack Obama, making her the longest-serving senior advisor in history. During her tenure, she oversaw the White House Offices of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs and chaired the White House Council on Women and Girls. Her work focused on expanding opportunity, strengthening access to the middle class, supporting working families, and advancing civic engagement.Jarrett is also the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir Finding My Voice: My Journey to the West Wing and the Path Forward. Her extensive leadership experience includes service on corporate, nonprofit, educational, and civic boards, including the University of Chicago and the Ralph Lauren Corporation.

Recognized for her leadership and influence, Jarrett has been named to TIME's 100 Most Influential People list and Forbes' 50 Over 50 list. She earned her bachelor's degree from Stanford University and her JD from the University of Michigan Law School.

Your Ticket Includes

• A compelling conversation with Ken Chenault and Valerie Jarrett about leadership, legacy, mentorship, and purpose.
• A signed copy of Equal to the Task to take home.
• A photo opportunity with Ken Chenault to commemorate the evening.

Ticket Price: $35

Additional copies of the book cannot be sold the day of the event so there is an option to add-on signed books. Please get extra books with your ticket because books will not be sold the day of the event.

There are limited free general admission tickets.

Reserve Your Seat

Don't miss this special opportunity to hear two distinguished leaders reflect on the experiences, values, and lessons that shape a life of impact.

Come ready to listen, learn, and reflect on what it means to realize your potential and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Reserve your ticket today for an unforgettable evening of conversation and insight.

Please review the event details and ticket information before completing your registration.