Remarkable Lives Speaker Series:
You May Know Their Names, Do You Know Their Stories?
Remarkable Lives is an annual speaker series celebrating the extraordinary stories of Californians who’ve made a lasting impact on their communities and the world. From innovators, risk-takers, and trailblazers to everyday heroes, this series honors individuals whose lives remind us of the power of resilience, purpose, and connection.
Through unforgettable storytelling, Remarkable Lives brings people together to build community and spark dialogue while shining a light on the essential programs and services provided by the Council on Aging—Southern California. Proceeds from the event support our mission to help older adults and family caregivers remain healthy, connected, and protected.
Join Us. Be Inspired.
Remarkable Lives: An Evening with Rita Moreno
“Aging with Rhythm and Style”
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | 6-8 PM | Wine & Hors d’oeuvres
The Beckman Center of the National Academies of Sciences and Engineering, 100 Academy Way, Irvine, CA | Free parking onsite
Rhythm • Style • Longevity
Explore How Life Stays in Motion — and the Remarkable Story Behind It
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating resilience, self-expression, and the power of aging with confidence and purpose. Remarkable Lives: Aging with Rhythm and Style features Rita Moreno at 94—iconic performer, cultural trailblazer, and one of the few artists in history to earn an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award.
Moreno made history as the first Latina woman to win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, for her groundbreaking role in West Side Story. Across a career spanning more than seven decades, she has continually challenged expectations, reclaimed her voice, and redefined what it means to remain vibrant and relevant at every stage of life.
Guided by Stephen Galloway, this conversation explores Moreno’s extraordinary life, her enduring impact on culture and representation, and how staying in rhythm—creatively, emotionally, and socially—shapes aging well. The evening concludes with an engaging audience Q&A.
FEATURED SPEAKERS
Rita Moreno
An EGOT winner and global icon, Rita Moreno’s career spans film, television, theater, and advocacy. Her story is one of courage, reinvention, and joy—proving that purpose and style have no expiration date.
Stephen Galloway
Dean of Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University, Stephen Galloway is a respected cultural leader and interviewer known for guiding thoughtful conversations on storytelling, legacy, and the human experience.
EVENT DETAILS
- Date: Tuesday, May 12, 2026
- Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
- Location: Beckman Center, Irvine
- Format: Moderated conversation + audience Q&A
Photo Credit: Bernardo Doral
Photo Credit: Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP
