One of four cultural leaders serving on a panel for DesignPhiladelphia 2024 discussing our visions for attracting people to the city while maintaining respect for local value and visions.

I am excited to be a speaker and panelist at the DesignPhiladelphia Festival event, “Catalysts: Designing Future Philadelphia,” on October 9th. Join J2, in collaboration with Exit Design, for a dynamic evening exploring the future of Philadelphia with four creative catalysts shaping the city’s vision.

The program will showcase bold ideas that bring art to the forefront, envision equitable and joyful public spaces, and offer a preview of the exciting plans for Philadelphia’s role in America’s 250th anniversary celebration. Through design, we will discuss how Philadelphia can become a national attraction while building an enduring legacy for its residents.

The event will feature inspiring presentations from:

Joe Forkin, CEO of Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC), on transforming the Waterfront

Angela Val, CEO of Visit Philly, on 2026 in Philadelphia

Bill Adair, Co-Founder of Art Philly

Matthew Kenyatta, Ph.D., on designing the future of urban spaces

Join us for this engaging conversation about how the places we create, the arts we amplify, and the bold plans we activate will shape Philadelphia’s future.