The Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce today announced that Doris Kearns Goodwin, Presidential historian and author of the bestseller “Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln,” which has become one of the most talked about books in America, will address the Rhode Island business community on Tuesday, May 5. Her keynote presentation will mark the start of Business EXPO 2009, taking place at the Rhode Island Convention Center May 5 and 6.

Kearns Goodwin's work has been at the forefront of recent political and historic discussions. President Barack Obama credits the book with inspiring him to think differently about the administration’s appointments. The Pulitzer Prize-winning author and news commentator is expected to share her insights about the qualities of great leadership during her presentation entitled “Leadership Lessons from Abraham Lincoln.”

 

"We couldn’t have asked for a more timely or relevant keynote speaker,” said Laurie White, president of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce. “Doris Kearns Goodwin will provide the same informed and enthralling commentary on leadership, politics and strategy in today’s business climate to Rhode Islanders as she provided to President Obama.”