Danielle Ponder Kicks Off Ewing Forum’s 14th Season

Ewing Forum opens 14th season

The first community conversation features musical artist Danielle Ponder — and the season is dedicated to the memory of George M. Ewing Jr.

September 3, 2025 — The George M. Ewing Canandaigua Forum launches its 14th season with a compelling conversation with regional artist Danielle Ponder, a former public defender turned acclaimed singer-songwriter.

The first forum event of the season, From Law to Lyrics: A Brave Leap of Faith and Reinvention, will take place at 4 p.m. on  Sunday, Sept. 21  at the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center in Canandaigua.

Moderated by Evan Dawson, host of WXXI’s Connections, the event will showcase Ponder’s journey through courage, transformation, and the power of trusting one’s inner voice.

Ponder spent nearly a decade fighting for justice in the courtroom before answering a deeper calling — music. Her transition from lawyer to full-time artist has inspired thousands, and her story resonates far beyond the stage. In her work, Ponder explores themes of purpose, risk-taking, and authenticity, offering a message that is both deeply personal and universally empowering.

“Leaving my career in law wasn’t about abandoning my passion for justice,” said Ponder. “It was about finding a new way to advocate — through music, through stories, and through human connection.”

Her music, a blend of soul and R&B infused with lyrical storytelling, has earned her national acclaim and a devoted following. Now, she brings her voice and vision to the Ewing Forum stage, inviting audiences to reflect on their own paths and the courage it takes to change course.

This event marks the beginning of a season dedicated to the memory of George McClellan Ewing, Jr., who passed away earlier this year. Season 14 honors his family’s legacy of civic engagement, intellectual inquiry, and cultural enrichment.

Upcoming Events in Season 14 Include:

• November 9, 2025 – The Fight for Freshwater: Protecting the Finger Lakes and the Great Lakes with environmental journalist and author Dan Egan, moderated by Andy Zepp, president and co-founder of the Finger Lakes Land Trust.
• March 15, 2026 – Strength Under Fire: Women in Military Combat with retired Lt. Colonel Amy McGrath, moderated by Michael O’Hanlon, director of research and senior fellow of the foreign policy program at the Brookings Institution.
• April 19, 2026 – Profit vs. People: Healthcare, Morality and the Cost of Care with health care reform advocate Wendell Potter, moderated by Canandaigua native, renowned journalist and advocate for social justice Michael Winship.

All events will be held at the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center (FHPAC), 20 Fort Hill Avenue, Canandaigua. Tickets are $30 per event or $100 for a season package. Tickets can be purchased at gmeforum.org or by calling the FHPAC box office at (585) 412-6043.

The George M. Ewing Canandaigua Forum is made possible by the generous support of Canandaigua National Bank, WXXI, Wegmans, and the Friends of the Forum.

For more information about the speakers, venue, or season details, visit gmeforum.org or contact the Ewing Forum at (585) 313-8443.