Future of Next
Future of Next is a free, full-day program marking Johns Hopkins University’s 150th anniversary by examining how change and innovation may shape health, technology, democracy, cities, the arts, and civic life. Leaders and creators from fields including medicine, history, journalism, government, research, and the arts will consider what the future holds and how bold ideas can become meaningful action.
The program includes a keynote by Kevin Ashton, who coined the phrase “Internet of Things,” along with conversations featuring Atul Gawande, Anne Applebaum, D. Watkins, Bologna Mayor Matteo Lepore, Peabody’s Wendel Patrick, and Johns Hopkins President Ron Daniels. NBC News’ Hallie Jackson will moderate. Afternoon breakout sessions will focus on the future of cities, aging, and creativity, followed by a closing discussion about the future of the American research university.
When: November 11, 2026
Showtimes: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST
Tickets: Free
Registration: Registration is required, and attendees should register in advance for each session they wish to attend.
Audience: Open to the general public, Johns Hopkins faculty, staff, and students.
Program: Keynote by Kevin Ashton; conversations with Atul Gawande, Anne Applebaum, D. Watkins, Matteo Lepore, Wendel Patrick, and Ron Daniels; moderation by Hallie Jackson; afternoon breakout sessions on cities, aging, and creativity; and a closing session on the future of the American research university.
Venue: Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center, 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001
Contact: Sesquicentennial team at agursky1@jhu.edu or 410-516-2813