The University of California, Berkeley, founded in 1868, is world-renowned for its activist history and cutting-edge research. Situated near Silicon Valley, Berkeley combines fierce intellectual curiosity with a passion for social justice, making it a top source for speakers who challenge conventions and inspire change.

UC Berkeley: A Hub for Activism, Research, and Bold Ideas

Berkeley fosters leaders who bridge academia, technology, and activism — perfect for audiences hungry for innovation paired with conscience.

Notable Figures and Speaker Highlights

Berkeley alumni and faculty include Eric Schmidt (former Google CEO), Joan Didion (author), Robert Reich (economist and former Secretary of Labor), and Alice Waters (chef and sustainability advocate).

The campus is home to Nobel laureates and influential social scientists such as Steven Chu (Nobel laureate physicist and former U.S. Energy Secretary).

Speakers from Berkeley often address climate policy, technology ethics, labor rights, and cultural change.

» READ MORE: Yale's Most Popular Keynote Speakers

Why Berkeley Speakers Resonate

Berkeley’s speakers are passionate, fearless, and articulate. They connect scholarly research with real-world activism and policy, making them ideal for events centered on innovation, diversity, equity, and leadership.

Booking a Berkeley speaker means engaging your audience with bold ideas and urgent calls to action — voices that don’t just inform but inspire transformation.

Featured UC Berkeley Speakers

  • Caroline Winnett – Executive Director, Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator. Book Caroline Winnett for cutting-edge insights on startup ecosystems, innovation acceleration, and building impactful ventures.
  • Paul Otellini – Former CEO, Intel Corporation. Invite Paul Otellini’s legacy through talks on technology leadership, corporate growth, and transforming the semiconductor industry.
  • Barbara Desoer – Former CEO, Citibank; Banking Industry Leader. Bring Barbara Desoer to share perspectives on navigating financial services, leadership in complex markets, and women in executive roles.
  • Arun Sarin – Former CEO, Vodafone. Book Arun Sarin for a global telecommunications and leadership masterclass, focusing on innovation and emerging markets.
  • Scott Galloway – Marketing Professor, Author, Tech & Business Analyst. Invite Scott Galloway for sharp, data-driven talks on brand strategy, tech giants, and future market trends.
  • Terry McMillan – Bestselling Author. Book Terry McMillan to inspire with stories about culture, race, and relationships that resonate with diverse audiences.
  • Sanaa Lathan – Award-Winning Actress. Bring Sanaa Lathan to share powerful narratives on storytelling, representation, and navigating Hollywood.
  • Jill Foley – Media Executive. Invite Jill Foley for expert insights on media innovation, content creation, and leadership in entertainment.
  • Nancy Tellem – Former President, CBS Network Entertainment. Book Nancy Tellem for a visionary conversation on television leadership, content evolution, and industry transformation.
  • Steve Wozniak – Co-founder, Apple Inc. Invite Steve Wozniak for inspiring stories from the dawn of personal computing and lessons on creativity and innovation.
  • Alex Morgan – US Women’s National Soccer Team Captain; Olympic Gold Medalist. Bring Alex Morgan to motivate with tales of leadership, teamwork, and breaking barriers in sports.
  • Leroy Chiao – NASA Astronaut. Book Leroy Chiao for extraordinary perspectives on space exploration, teamwork, and pushing human limits.
  • Louis Trevino – Indigenous Chef & Cultural Ambassador. Invite Louis Trevino to enrich audiences with stories of Indigenous heritage, culinary arts, and cultural preservation.
  • Barbara Lee – U.S. Congresswoman. Bring Barbara Lee for insightful discussions on leadership, social justice, and policy advocacy.

💡 Want Berkeley voices at your event? From tech pioneers and social justice champions to cultural icons and visionary leaders, Berkeley speakers embody activism, innovation, and impact. We’ll help you find the perfect match for your audience.

Email us at hello@getapeptalk.com, message us in chat, or call +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US). Let’s bring Berkeley boldness to your stage.

Written by Isla Cauchi
Isla Cauchi was born in London and now lives in New York. She is currently attending Westminster School in Connecticut, where she continues her education.