As president of Xcel Energy, Ben Fowke was instrumental in driving the company’s clean energy transition. Xcel Energy reduced carbon emissions 51% from 2005 to 2020 and was the first to announce a vision to produce carbon-free electricity by 2050. In a conversation with David Owens, himself a key energy industry leader, Fowke will discuss his career in the energy sector, the efforts currently underway to reach Xcel’s ambitious goals, and the collaborative work it is doing to ensure economic development in coal reliant communities as the nation attempts to transition to carbon-free electricity.

Paula Glover is a dynamic leader with more than 25 years of experience in the energy industry. She has built a stellar reputation working with state legislators and regulators and believes the conversation about energy justice should start with energy efficiency. Steve Mitnick is a key thought-leader, researcher, and the author of several books about barrier breakers in the energy industry. Together they will conduct a conversation with Clint Vince, chair of Dentons' US Energy Practice, about reducing inequitable energy burdens in the United States, how energy leaders can work collaboratively to achieve carbon reduction, and take stock of both the progress and steps still needed for the energy sector to be more diverse, equitable, and inclusive.  

Each year, Keystone includes among its honorees a journalist to recognize the critical role they play in moderating our nation’s grand discussion among its leaders and citizens. A legend of Washington journalism, Bob Woodward has shared in two Pulitzer Prizes and written #1 best-selling books on the last nine presidents. Woodward will joined by Shelby Coffey, board director at the Newseum, to discuss the constantly-evolving media landscape, the erosion of trust in science and institutions, and how journalism still plays a critical role in the haze of cynical rhetoric.