The 2008 National Summit will feature briefings by top foreign policy advisers to both presidential campaigns and appearances by leading members of the Senate. Members of Congress from across the Midwest will share their support for the U.S.-Israel relationship.

One of Israel's most senior government officials will speak with Summit delegates, and Israel's incoming ambassador to the United Nations has been invited to dine with AIPAC Senate Club members along the Chicago waterfront.

Spend a few days with the nation's most influential pundits and commentators, just a week before the presidential election, and meet face-to-face with some of the world's most prominent foreign policy experts and analysts as they navigate the most pressing issues facing America, Israel and our world.

Saturday, October 25

3:00 p.m.

Registration Opens

7:30 p.m.

Senate Club Dinner - Israel In The Park

Israel's new ambassador to the United Nations Gabriela Shalev and human rights activist Natan Sharansky* lead an intimate discussion with AIPAC Senate Club members against the backdrop of Chicago's world-famous skyline.

8:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Capitol Club Reception at Hotel

Join other AIPAC Capitol Club members at one of Chicago's premier downtown riverfront hotels for dessert and after-dinner drinks.

Sunday, October 26

7:00 a.m.

Registration Opens

11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Opening Plenary - Israel: An American Value

The first of Summit's four major plenary sessions opens with addresses from one of the nation's most prominent African-American leaders and a rising star in the pro-Israel movement, Mayor of Newark, New Jersey, Cory Booker, as well as key members of the Senate.

2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Breakout Sessions

Delegates will have the opportunity to choose from more than three dozen Breakout Sessions that allow for an in-depth look at issues ranging from Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons, Israel's negotiations with the Palestinians and Russia's growing influence in the Middle East, to grassroots political organizing, the geopolitics of oil and much more.

Click here for a full list of Sunday's Breakout Sessions.

7:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Gala Dinner - Honoring The Midwest Congressional Delegation

Dine with leading luminaries and members of Congress from throughout the Midwest during what will be a memorable and meaningful evening.

Monday, October 27

8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Breakfast Plenary - Foreign Policy And Politics

Just one week before the presidential elections, top foreign policy advisors to both presidential campaigns discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the next administration.

11:00 – 12:15 p.m.

Breakout Sessions

Whether you select a seminar with Middle East experts on one of the most pressing issues facing the U.S. and Israel today, or choose a discussion with top political pundits fresh off the campaign trail, these sessions are often limited to a few dozen people, ensuring you the opportunity to have your questions answered.

Click here for a full list of Monday's Breakout Sessions.

12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Closing Luncheon Plenary - The Future Of The U.S.-Israel Alliance

Mayor Richard Daley, a Chicago icon and longtime friend of the pro-Israel community, brings the 2008 National Summit to a close.

 

* - denotes invited.