'COD Presents'

The College of DuPage Speaker Series "COD Presents" features keynote presentations and facilitated conversations with prominent individuals from across the country who are using their resources, influence, creativity and passion to make a positive impact in the world. These candid dialogues with guests create an opportunity for COD students, faculty, staff and community members to exchange ideas and walk away inspired.

Upcoming Events

Stephanie Land in front of a montain in Montana

An Evening with NYT Bestselling Author and Activist Stephanie Land

Thursday, Oct. 10 | 7 p.m. | Belushi Performance Hall
New York Times bestselling author and activist, Stephanie Land’s debut memoir, “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive,” recounts her harrowing saga as a single mom navigating the poverty trap after fleeing a violent home. Her unflinching testimony exposes the physical, economic and social brutality that domestic workers face, all while radiating a parent’s hope and dedication. “Maid” was named as a Notable Book of the Year by The New York Times and The Washington Post, among others, and was listed among President Obama’s summer reading list for 2019.

After her presentation, Land will sign copies of her book “Maid,” which serves as the inspiration for Netflix’s Golden Globe and Emmy Award-nominated original series “Maid.” In its first month, the critically-acclaimed show became one of Netflix’s most-watched series ever, with over 469 million hours viewed and reaching more than 67 million households.

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Past Events

An Evening with Richard Montañez

Presented on Thursday, April 4, 2024
From humbled beginnings as a Frito-Lay janitor to a rising company executive, inventor Richard Montañez inspired the creation of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and other related products. His true grit, homage to Mexican culture and unwavering determination helped to disrupt the food industry to evolve the popular snacks into a billion-dollar enterprise and global cultural phenomenon. After his presentation, Montañez sat down for an enlightening talk with MAC Director Diana Martinez and an audience Q&A. He also signed copies of his book “Flamin’ Hot,” which was adapted into the Disney+ film directed by actress Eva Longoria.

View photos from An Evening with Richard Montañez

An Evening with Elizabeth Smart

elizabeth smart

Presented on Oct. 19, 2023
Nearly 700 attendees filled Belushi Performance Hall on the College of DuPage’s Glen Ellyn campus to hear Elizabeth Smart speak about her personal story of perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. The author, advocate for change and national speaker discussed her grueling nine-month kidnapping and her abductors’ trial, highlighting the importance and process of recovery, and having hope in even the most difficult situation. Guests received a free copy of Smart’s book “Where There’s Hope: Healing, Moving Forward and Never Giving Up” and the opportunity to have their copy signed during the events meet and greet.

View photos from An Evening with Elizabeth Smart