For the 16th year, The Forum, hosted by the Leadership Institute at Columbus State University, will bring a lineup of the best and brightest minds in the world to Columbus August 31. This year’s event, themed “Leadership Reinvented,” will feature four speakers and a Dine Around Uptown Columbus during lunch. 

The one-day event, held at the Columbus Iron Works and Trade Center, will begin at 9 a.m., Tuesday, August 31. Frank Abagnale, cybersecurity and fraud prevention expert, best-selling author and subject of Steven Spielberg’s 2002 film, Catch me if you Can, will open the event. Abagnale is one of the world’s most respected authorities on forgery, embezzlement and secure documents. His rare blend of knowledge and expertise began more than 50 years ago when he was known as one of the world’s most famous con men.

The event will also feature Kat Cole, investor, former chief operating officer and president of Focus Brands. Cole’s journey from restaurant hostess at 17, executive by 26, president by 32, and investor by 35 is often shared as an example of the American and entrepreneurial dream. The final two speaking spots will be announced soon. 

For the first time, attendees can choose from an in-person event ticket for $279 or a virtual event ticket for $99. Virtual attendees will have access to view all four speakers in real-time the day of the event. 

Also new this year, in-person attendees will Dine Around various restaurants throughout Uptown Columbus during lunch. Through a partnership with VisitColumbusGA and Uptown Columbus, and agreements with local restaurant owners, attendees will present meal vouchers at one of the partner locations. Certain restaurants will require a reservation while others will be available for walk-ups. 

For the eighth year, faculty, staff and students currently enrolled with a valid CSU or Columbus Tech ID can watch the event live via simulcast from the University Hall Auditorium. 

Virtual event tickets, in-person tickets and tables, and sponsorships are now available. For more information, visit TheFourm.ColumbusState.edu.