Kenneth Chenault — Equal to the Task: A Life Forged Between America's Promise and Its Truth — at Conn Ave
Kenneth Chenault presents *Equal to the Task: A Life Forged Between America’s Promise and Its Truth*, his memoir of growing up in the era of legal segregation and rising to the highest levels of corporate America. The conversation explores his personal journey, the mentors and values that shaped him, and his effort to create meaningful change as the United States confronts its history, identity, and future.
Chenault recounts his nearly two decades leading American Express, where he oversaw major innovations, and his later decision to join venture capital firm General Catalyst rather than pursue a conventional post-CEO role. He discusses his work supporting companies that use technology for both profit and purpose, as well as his continued public and private-sector advocacy for moral clarity.
When: November 30, 2026
Showtime: 7:00 p.m.
Venue: Politics and Prose at 5015 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
Format: An in-person event with a livestream option.
Tickets: Free admission.
Seating: First come, first served.
Speaker: Kenneth “Ken” Chenault, Chairman and Managing Director of General Catalyst and former Chairman and CEO of American Express.
Speaker background: Chenault led American Express from 2001 to 2018 and is recognized for his expertise in brands and brand management. His honors include placement on the TIME100 Most Influential People list in 2021 and inclusion in *Fortune*’s World’s 50 Greatest Leaders in 2014 and 2021. He serves on the boards of Airbnb, Berkshire Hathaway, Bilt Rewards, Campus, Chief, and Guild Education, as well as nonprofit organizations including the Smithsonian Institution’s Advisory Council for the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Accessibility: To request accommodations or ask about accessibility, email events@politics-prose.com, ideally at least one week before the event. The venue will make an effort to accommodate requests made up to the event.
Related book: *Equal to the Task: A Life Forged Between America’s Promise and Its Truth* is available in hardcover for $29.99.