The gala, scheduled for November 8, celebrates Pelosi’s historic career, which includes her tenure as the 52nd Speaker of the House and her trailblazing role as the first woman to hold that position. Joseph P. Kennedy III, co-chair of the institute’s board, noted that Pelosi’s legacy of leadership aligns with the late Senator Edward M. Kennedy’s dedication to civic engagement. The award follows the inaugural presentation given to former President Joe Biden in 2025.

Pelosi continues to serve California’s 11th Congressional District, a post she has held for 39 years. Her legislative career has already earned her the Presidential Medal of Freedom and a place in the National Women’s Hall of Fame. The proceeds from the annual dinner will support the institute’s broader mission of civic education, which annually reaches over 20,000 students and educators through workshops and its full-scale replica of the U.S. Senate floor.