The 2025-2026 Futures Series Lineup

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Check out the Futures Series line-up for the 2025-2026 school year:

  • Linnae Harper: South Side native, former professional athlete and current Obama Foundation staff Linnae Harper discussed sports, leadership, and wellbeing, sharing lessons on resilience.

  • David Johnson: Photographer and True Chicago founder David Johnson spoke with students about navigating ADD and dyslexia, turning personal challenges into creative strengths, and forging an independent career path.

  • Kevin Cross: Hyde Park Academy alumnus and NBCU Local Chicago President and GM Kevin Cross hosted students in the NBC conference room to discuss his winding career journey and overcoming academic setbacks.

  • Northwestern Medicine: A panel of eight healthcare professionals shared diverse medical career pathways, followed by a hands-on clinical workshop where students practiced CPR, AED operation, and vital sign monitoring.

  • EXPO Chicago: Students toured the art fair and listened to a moderated conversation with artist Aliza Nisenbaum about her commissioned artwork for the Obama Presidential Center Library branch.

  • Herbie Hancock: Iconic musician and Hyde Park Academy alumnus Herbie Hancock returned to Hyde Park Academy to connect with students, inspiring them to stay curious and embrace change.

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President Obama gives a speech on stage at Hyde Park Academy High School. There are two stools and two Obama Foundation posters behind him.
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The Obama Foundation Futures Series exposes high school students to a variety of career pathways through intimate conversations with accomplished leaders about their experiences.
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