Michael J. Gerson—beloved White House speechwriter and senior policy adviser, and Washington Post columnist—brought wisdom, moral clarity, and uncommon grace to our public life.
The Trinity Forum, with support from the College Board and the Haslam Foundation, is honored to carry forward his legacy through the newly created Michael J. Gerson Memorial Prize for Excellence in Writing on Faith and Public Life.
The Prize will honor and celebrate emerging writers whose work reflects Michael’s conscience, courage, and hope. We invite you to join us for the announcement of the first honoree.
Where: Washington National Cathedral, a place close to Michael’s heart.
When: Wednesday, November 19, 2025
6:00 PM Drinks and light hors d’oeuvres reception
7:00 PM Award of the Prize, and selection committee conversation:
“Conscience, Courage and Craft: The Duty of the Writer in an Age of Confusion,” with
- Peter Wehner, committee chair
- David Brooks
- Christine Emba
- Russell Moore
- Karen Swallow Prior
Registration: $30
Capacity is limited.
Learn more about Michael and the Prize here. We look forward to gathering in gratitude for Michael’s life and in anticipation of the voices his example will continue to inspire.
With thanks to our sponsors:
$25,000 sponsors:
President and Mrs. George W. and Laura Bush
The Gates Foundation
More Perfect
The Honorable and Mrs. Joel and Laura Kaplan
$10,000 sponsors:
The Honorable and Mrs. Josh and Ann Bolten
The Rockefeller Foundation
$5,000 sponsors:
David Campaigne with BlueTrust
Professor John DiIulio, Jr.
The Honorable Ari Fleischer
The Honorable Karl Rove
Greg Shaw
Interested in sponsoring? Contact Trinity Forum Partnerships Director Campbell Vogel.
