HOPEx 2025: The Art of Change

Lynchburg Beacon of Hope proudly presents HOPEx 2025, our fourth annual evening of live storytelling and inspiration. This year’s theme, “The Art of Change”, invites speakers to share how transformation shapes our lives, sparks growth, and inspires our community. Our dynamic lineup includes:
Phillip Boykin – Grammy and Tony-nominated bass-baritone, known for “Hadestown”, “Once on This Island”, and “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess”, with performances spanning Broadway, film, and international tours.
Dr. Chris Kukk – Author of “The Compassionate Achiever”, Dean of the Cormier Honors College at Longwood University, and former counter-intelligence agent whose research explores how compassion drives success in education, business, and society.
Daryl Calfee – Creative visionary, real estate developer, and author of “Let’s Skip the Bullsh*t: Lessons from Dad after Your Mom Died”, whose work revitalizes Lynchburg’s neighborhoods through Penny Lane Properties.

Alongside these mainstage speakers, four Lynchburg City Schools alumni will take the stage, sharing their personal journeys and the role of change in their lives.

Emcee Kathleen Davis will guide us through the night, with live music by Flat Five Jazz, setting the tone for an evening of thought-provoking stories and community connection. Guests will leave inspired, challenged, and ready to create change.

General admission tickets are $50; VIP tickets are $100 and include access to a pre-event reception with hors d’oeuvres and a chance to mingle with the speakers before they take the stage. Through the generosity of Lynchburg City Schools Education Foundation, LCS students and staff may attend for free! Don’t miss it—reserve your spot today by grabbing tickets from www.HOPExTalk.org!