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Iowa Ideas 2022
Guest Speakers & Keynotes
Iowa Ideas 2022 Keynotes
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Opening Keynote
Opening Keynote Speaker, October 14, 2021Simon EstesIowa Native • Internationally-acclaimed Bass Baritone
About SimonSimon Estes, internationally-acclaimed bass baritone, is the star of the stage at the world's major opera houses, a regular guest at international festivals, and has appeared with leading international orchestras under eminent conductors.
Rising from humble beginnings in the small town of Centerville, Iowa, this grandson of a slave sold at auction for $500, son of a father who faithfully provided for his family with menial jobs from coal-mining to serving as a hotel porter, is an amazing success story.
With family values founded upon a godly heritage, character-building struggle and sacrifice, Simon Estes successfully faced each new hurdle and career challenge, culminating in triumph for this extraordinarily gifted performing artist. When asked if he thought we were victims of fate or makers of our own destiny, he answered quickly "Makers of our own destiny."
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Opening Keynote SpeakerSimon EstesIowa Native • Internationally-acclaimed Bass Baritone
