Historically Speaking – Loving the Fire: A Conversation with Deborah Santana

Join us for an intimate and uplifting evening with Deborah Santana in the Oprah Winfrey Theater. Deborah Santana is a celebrated author, business leader, and founder of Do a Little, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding educational and health opportunities for women and girls globally. Santana is the author of Space Between Stars , co-editor of All the Women in My Family Sing , and producer of five documentary films. She is also a leadership donor to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Co-chair of the Smithsonian Education Advisory Board, and a lead investor in the Courage Museum in San Francisco. Her new book, Loving the Fire: Choosing Me, Finding Freedom , reflects powerfully on transformation, motherhood, family heritage, profound life changes, and spiritual growth. Deborah takes readers on a deep human journey of resilience and renewal. From her work with Daraja Academy to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, she shows how a life devoted to service can become rooted in truth, wholeness, and fulfillment. Moderated by Dr. Monique M. Chism, Smithsonian’s Under Secretary for Education, the conversation will explore the power of navigating crossroads, honoring who you’ve been and stepping into the person you will become. A reception will follow, and Smithsonian Enterprises will have signed books available for purchase.