Program Description
Event Details
We are thrilled to welcome Kal Penn to close out our third season. Penn is an actor, writer, producer, and former Associate Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement. He is known for starring roles in Designated Survivor, House, The Namesake, the Harold & Kumar franchise, and much more.
About Kal Penn
From 2009 to 2011, Penn took a sabbatical from acting to serve as the President’s Liaison to Young Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and the Arts community. He worked on a range of issues, including the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, the Affordable Care Act, arts and culture programs, and the DREAM Act. In 2012, he was a co-chair for the Obama/Biden re-election campaign and served on the President’s Committee for the Arts and Humanities.
Originally from New Jersey, Penn has an undergraduate degree in sociology, theater, film, and television from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a graduate certificate in international security from Stanford University. He has taught courses at the University of Pennsylvania and the University of California, Los Angeles. Penn released his first book, You Can't Be Serious, in 2021. In 2023, he wrapped production on the climate change docuseries, Getting Warmer with Kal Penn, a new comedy, Surina & Mel, and has taken two turns behind the desk of The Daily Show, following the departure of host Trevor Noah.
Disclaimer(s)
Illinois Libraries Present Virtual Program
After you register (using the registration link above), you will receive an email with a specific Zoom link to join the event.
By registering, you agree to library policy and understand that no conduct is permitted that may reasonably be expected to create a disturbance or otherwise interfere with the safe use and enjoyment of the library and program by others. All times are listed in Central time.
This event is made possible by Illinois Libraries Present, a statewide collaboration among 200+ public libraries—including Oak Park Public Library—offering premier events for participating member libraries of all sizes and budgets. Funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a Department of the Office for the Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).
Illinois Libraries Present is committed to inclusion and accessibility. To request accommodations, please email illinoislibrariespresent@gmail.com.