Rick Caruso and Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt Discuss Essential Leadership Principles Ahead of November Election at President’s Speaker Series

On Thursday, October 31, 2024, Pepperdine president Jim Gash (JD ’93) hosted a compelling conversation between two prominent figures—business leader and civic advocate Rick Caruso (JD ’83) and Oklahoma governor Kevin Stitt. Throughout the discussion, Caruso and Stitt addressed pressing issues facing Americans ahead of the 2024 election, including economic challenges and opportunities, affordable and sustainable energy, criminal justice, and criminal justice reform.

“We at Pepperdine believe that we are much more likely to find truth when we seek it together—when we are willing to ask, to listen, to search, with one another’s help,” shared Gash in his opening remarks. “That’s why I’m grateful to be joined today by two civic leaders who—while they disagree on issues of significance—are ready and willing to engage in dialogue. To seek truth, together.”

Relive the thought-provoking discussion on the University Newsroom. For full broadcasts of Caruso and Stitt’s conversation and previous events in the series, visit the President’s Speaker Series website.