Friends of the LBJ Library | Oct, 27 2025 7:00PM - 8:00PM
Join us to hear from Michigan Governor and author Gretchen Whitmer, in conversation with author, TV host, and former White House Communications Director Jennifer Palmieri.
This program is co-hosted by the Friends of the LBJ Library and the LBJ Women’s Campaign School at The University of Texas at Austin.
About the speaker
Gretchen Whitmer is the governor of Michigan and a rising figure in US politics. Known for her bold and plainspoken style, Whitmer is a national voice on the rights of women, voters, and the LGBTQ+ community. She rose to national prominence for her leadership in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic, when her efforts to save lives in the state earned her the nickname “That Woman from Michigan” from the president. Later that year, a domestic terrorist cell began planning to kidnap and kill her, a plot that was foiled by the FBI and state police.
Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander who first ran for office at age twenty-nine, has served in both state houses, and has never lost an election. She is the proud mother of two daughters, a huge Detroit Lions fan, and the subject of the song “Big Gretch” by rapper GMac Cash.
Book sales
The Store at LBJ will be selling signed paperback copies of True Gretch: What I’ve Learned About Life, Leadership, and Everything in Between onsite in the upper lobby of the LBJ Auditorium before and after the program, while supplies last. By purchasing through the Store at LBJ, you support a local cultural institution. All proceeds from sales support our programming, exhibits, and educational initiatives at the LBJ Presidential Library.
Location and Parking
The LBJ Auditorium is located on the lower level of the LBJ complex at 2313 Red River St. Access to the auditorium will be through the lobby of the LBJ School of Public Affairs. Parking information will be shared with registered attendees.
Security and Bag Policy
All guests must pass through a security checkpoint prior to entering the venue.
We will be following UT Austin's clear bag policy. Bags that are permitted include:
- Bags that are clear plastic and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12"
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags
- Small clutch bags or purses do not have to be clear but cannot exceed 4.5" x 6.5"
All bags are subject to search by security personnel. Those with larger prohibited bags will be turned away. We do not have storage or locker facilities to store bags that exceed the size limit; please plan accordingly.
To RSVP:
Please register using the form below. This event is open to members of the Friends of the LBJ Library (at the Individual level and above) and guests of the LBJ Women’s Campaign School.
