At this week’s Round Table, Emmanuel, Inyoo, and Hannah spoke with Terry Edmonds, a trailblazer in the realm of communications and speechwriting. Terry holds the distinction of being the first African American Chief Speechwriter for President Bill Clinton, a role he fulfilled during the final term of President Clinton's administration. With over four decades of experience spanning political campaigns, corporate boardrooms, and nonprofit organizations, Terry's expertise in crafting impactful speeches has left an indelible mark on American discourse. His insights resonate all the more in the midst of the current presidential race

Throughout his illustrious career, Terry has penned speeches for a diverse array of leaders, from presidential candidates and corporate CEOs to nonprofit executives and university presidents. His tenure as Chief Speechwriter for President Clinton included shaping speeches on critical domestic policy issues such as education, healthcare, and welfare reform, as well as the State of the Union addresses and federal budget presentations.

Beyond the White House, Terry served as a chief speechwriter in the Obama Administration, notably contributing to the Corporation for National and Community Service and NASA, under Administrator Charles Bolden. His work extended to writing for prominent entities like IBM, Columbia University, Time Warner Inc., AARP, and the National Urban League, demonstrating his versatility in adapting his writing to different organizational contexts.

In our discussion with Terry, we explore the nuances of effective communication in today's political, corporate, and nonprofit landscapes. We delve into the importance of diverse voices in speechwriting and leadership, reflecting on Terry's lifelong commitment to social justice and uplifting minority youth through initiatives at Harvard's Advanced Leadership Initiative and beyond. Moreover, Terry shares insights into what constitutes a compelling speech, drawing from his extensive experience across various sectors. From the intricacies of rhetoric to the power of storytelling, our conversation sheds light on the elements that resonate with audiences and drive meaningful change. Thank you for listening!