Gildenhorn Family Lecture Series: Israel in the American Imagination

The Gildenhorn Institute for Israel Studies presents its 2026 Gildenhorn Family Lecture featuring Bianna Golodryga, CNN senior global affairs analyst and occasional anchor. The lecture, titled *Israel in the American Imagination*, brings Golodryga’s experience in international affairs, journalism, business reporting, and coverage of major global events to the University of Maryland.

Golodryga joined CNN in 2019 and has contributed extensively to the network’s reporting on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Previously, she anchored CBS *This Morning*, worked as ABC News’ business correspondent, and co-anchored *Weekend Good Morning America* through 2014. Her earlier career included producing from the New York Stock Exchange for CNBC. She is also co-author of the bestselling book *Don’t Feed the Lion*, about young people’s experiences with antisemitism, prejudice, and allyship. Her honors include an Emmy Award for Outstanding Morning Program, the Keystone Policy Center Leadership Award, and the University of Texas at Austin Pro Bene Meritis Award.

When: Monday, September 28, 2026

Showtimes: 7:00 p.m.

Tickets: Free

Registration: Registration is available through the event’s registration link.

Speaker: Bianna Golodryga, CNN senior global affairs analyst and fill-in anchor

Venue: Gildenhorn Recital Hall at The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, University of Maryland

Admission: General admission

Accessibility: The Clarice offers wheelchair-accessible seating, size-inclusive seating, large-print programs, assisted-listening devices, adult- and child-friendly sensory packs, and quiet spaces upon request. ASL interpretation, audio description, and captioning are available for select events or by patron request at least six weeks in advance.