Lynchburg Beacon of Hope

Join Lynchburg Beacon of Hope for HOPEx, our 4th annual evening of storytelling and inspiration. This year’s theme, “The Art of Change,” invites the audience to explore change and how it shapes our lives and the world around us. Featuring a diverse lineup of creators, entrepreneurs, and Lynchburg City Schools alumni, this event delves into the creative processes, personal journeys, and simple ideas that drive progress and create change.

This year's lineup is wide-ranging and impressive. Each speaker will offer unique perspectives on change—whether in the arts, social justice, business, or personal development. Mainstage speakers include:

• Phillip Boykin – Tony and Grammy-nominated Broadway star, whose life and artistry demonstrate the profound power of the arts to inspire and change lives
• Daryl Calfee – visionary entrepreneur whose creative ventures and community-driven work exemplify the innovation and determination that drive change
• Chris Kukk – distinguished professor at Longwood University offering thought-provoking insights on the impact of education and compassion to create change and growth

In addition to our mainstage speakers, four Lynchburg City Schools alumni will share their own stories of creativity, determination, and the impact of change on their personal growth. Kathleen Davis, local comedienne and host of Curious History tours, will serve as our emcee for the evening for the second year in a row. Flat Five Jazz will take the stage again, providing the musical stylings for the evening.

Ticket Details

General admission tickets are $50, granting you access to the evening’s inspiring program. Upgrade your experience with a $100 VIP ticket, which includes an exclusive pre-event reception. Enjoy delicious bites, refreshing drinks, and a unique opportunity to connect with our featured speakers before the main event begins.

Pre-event reception tickets: Doors open at 5:30 pm

General admission tickets: Doors opens at 6:30 pm

Lynchburg Beacon of Hope’s HOPEx is sponsored by Framatome, Centra Health, Innovative Wireless Technologies, Lynchburg City Schools Education Foundation, Moore and Giles, Jamerson-Lewis Construction, and Bank of the James. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, every ticket purchased directly supports the mission of Lynchburg Beacon of Hope, investing in Lynchburg’s youth. Join us at the Historic Academy Theater at 7 pm on Friday, April 4, 2025, and be part of a community dedicated to making change not just possible, but artful.

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