The Trust is honored to announce that the governors and first ladies of Maryland and Virginia will join us for this Monumental Conversation "On the Road to 250." David M. Rubenstein, a member of the National Mall 250 Cabinet, will moderate this special discussion as we lead up to America's 250th anniversary.
We hope you can join us on September 18, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, for this premier event at the Lincoln Library at the Waldorf Astoria, Washington, D.C.
Please join us for this intimate luncheon and conversation about the National Mall as a symbol of American history, freedom and independence as we approach the U.S. Semiquincentennial in 2026.
During the event, the Trust will present its History, Heroes & Hope Award to Governor Wes Moore and First Lady Dawn Moore and Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin. The Trust for the National Mall's History, Heroes & Hope Award recognizes individuals who honor the spirit and ideals that the National Mall represents for our country, and it has recognized dedicated public servants, long-time volunteers and patriotic donors.
This event is sold out. Please contact events@nationalmall.org to inquire about waitlist opportunities.
Guests must present government-issued photo ID at check-in. Guest names must be provided with each ticket purchased, and any changes must be communicated to events@nationalmall.org prior to the event. All sales are final.
All proceeds benefit the Trust for the National Mall's work and mission with the National Park Service to restore, preserve and elevate the National Mall and Our Monumental Moment: The Campaign for the National Mall, a critical effort inspired by America's 250th, when the National Mall will be center stage in the nation.
This is the latest in our series of Monumental Conversations that spotlight the role of the National Mall as a symbol of our nation's independence, unity, democracy and freedom. See highlights from our most recent Monumental Conversation here, featuring bestselling author Rick Atkinson and presidential historian Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky.
Supporting SponsorS
PATRONS
FEATURED PRESENTERS
David M. Rubenstein is Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of The Carlyle Group, Chairman and CEO of Major League Baseball's Baltimore Orioles, and a leader in patriotic philanthropy. A Baltimore native and graduate of Duke University (1970) and the University of Chicago Law School (1973), he has made transformative gifts for the restoration of numerous American landmarks, including the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and many others. A recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, he is an original signer of The Giving Pledge and hosts several television shows, including "The David Rubenstein Show."
The Hon. Wes Moore is the 63rd Governor of Maryland and the first Black governor in the state's history. A Rhodes Scholar, Army combat veteran, and bestselling author, Moore has dedicated his career to expanding opportunity and tackling issues of poverty and equity. He led the Robin Hood Foundation as CEO, distributing over $600 million to support families in need. A Baltimore resident, Moore lives with his wife Dawn, their two children, and their dog Tucker.
Dawn Moore - With more than 20 years of leadership experience in government relations, non-profit work, building corporate partnerships, community organizing, campaign strategy, and fundraising, she is passionate about empowering women, fostering economic opportunity, and championing the arts.
The Hon. Glenn Youngkin is the 74th Governor of Virginia and a Richmond-born businessman who spent 25 years at The Carlyle Group before entering public service. Since taking office in 2022, he has prioritized educational reform, economic growth, public safety, and reducing the cost of living for Virginia families. Under his leadership, Virginia has seen record job growth, major business investments, and a sharp decline in violent crime and opioid overdoses. Youngkin lives in Virginia with his wife Suzanne and their four children.
First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin - As First Lady of the Commonwealth of Virginia, Suzanne S. Youngkin prioritizes listening to the needs of Virginians and celebrating the many good works happening across the Commonwealth.
Sheila Johnson, Vice Chair, Trust for the National Mall, Founder and CEO, Salamander Collection
Sheila Johnson is Founder & CEO of the Salamander Collection. The company operates luxury properties centered around unique destinations in the US and the Caribbean that includes Salamander Middleburg which has achieved the Forbes Triple Five-Star ratings for its accommodations, spa and dining.
Jason Rosenberg, Wells Fargo Head of Public Affairs
Jason Rosenberg joined Wells Fargo in 2024 as Head of Public Affairs, which includes the company’s Corporate Communications, Corporate Marketing, Government Relations and Public Policy, Philanthropy and Community Impact, and Sustainability groups. Jason is a member of Wells Fargo’s Operating Committee.
The Trust for the National Mall is pleased to reprise its Monumental Conversations series for 2025. The series dates back to 2021, featuring special collaborations with leaders in arts, history and culture on the National Mall, including the Washington National Opera and the Japan-America Society of Washington D.C.