A Conversation with Former Navy Secretary John Lehman

A Conversation with Former Navy Secretary John Lehman

Feb 25, 2026
Join us for a timely discussion with John Lehman, former Secretary of the Navy, on the future of the U.S. Navy and its role in global affairs.

Location:

World Affairs Council of Philadelphia
1617 JFK Blvd, Suite 1660
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Schedule:

5:30 p.m. Registrations Open
6:00 p.m. Fireside Chat
7:15 p.m. Conclusion

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

The Honorable John F. Lehman Jr. is Chairman of J.F. Lehman & Company, a private equity investment firm. He served for six years as Secretary of the Navy. He was President of Abington Corporation between 1977 and 1981. He served 25 years in the naval reserve, flying various tactical aircraft for over two decades. He has served as staff member to Dr. Henry Kissinger on the National Security Council, as delegate to the Force Reductions Negotiations in Vienna, and as Deputy Director of the U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency. Dr. Lehman served as a member of the 9/11 Commission, and the National Defense Commission.

A Pennsylvania native, Dr. Lehman holds a B.S. from St. Joseph’s University, a B.A. and M.A. from Cambridge University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. He is currently an Hon. Fellow of Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge University. Dr. Lehman has written numerous books, including On Seas of Glory, Command of the Seas, and Making War. He is Chairman of the Princess Grace Foundation USA and is a member of the Board of Overseers of the School of Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania. He currently sits on the Board of Advisors of the Foreign Policy Research Institute as Chair of their National Security Program.

If you are a Supporting, Leadership Circle, or Corporate Member of the Council and would like to register other guests of your company, contact Stefanie Yeung at syeung@wacphila.org or 215-561-4700 to register for this event using your membership benefits.

If you have questions about the event listed above or require assistance with the registration form, contact Ben Rush-Goebel at brushgoebel@wacphila.org or 267-802-1243.

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ACCESS

Unlock enhanced access to our speaker events and play a crucial role in shaping the world and making an impact right here in Philadelphia by becoming a member.

GET EVEN
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ACCESS

Unlock enhanced access to our speaker events and play a crucial role in shaping the world and making an impact right here in Philadelphia by becoming a member.

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The Global Leadership Institute

This in-person career development opportunity is designed to give professionals a competitive edge in today’s interconnected business world. Enhance your global fluency and cultural competency skills with interactive workshops and network with like-minded professionals.

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