2026 Speaker – José Andrés

The John T. Vucurevich Foundation is proud to announce its 2026 featured Bright Note guest, chef, restaurateur, and humanitarian José Andrés. The evening with Andrés will take place Wednesday, November 18 at 7:30 p.m. at The Monument in Rapid City. Ticket sales begin on October 13, 2026, at 10 a.m. MT.

Twice named one of Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, José Andrés is a renowned chef, Emmy Award-winning television personality, New York Times bestselling author, educator, and internationally recognized humanitarian.

In 2010, Andrés founded World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit organization that is first to the frontlines providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises. To date, Andrés and his team have served over 800 million meals in places like Gaza, Haiti, and Ukraine.​

“This year, our speaker represents the best of humanity,” said Foundation President & CEO Jacqui Dietrich. “José Andrés has pioneered new approaches to disaster and humanitarian relief, serving people in some of the world’s most challenging circumstances. His work demonstrates how a simple act of care can change lives, and we look forward to sharing his inspiring story with our community this November.”

This year’s Bright Note is moving to the Summit Arena at The Monument. The Foundation is excited to honor John’s vision for bringing internationally recognized speakers to Rapid City by making the event more accessible to the public.

Event and Ticket Details:

Bright Note: An Evening with José Andrés

Wednesday, November 18, 2026 – 7:30 p.m.

The Monument, Summit Arena, Rapid City, SD

Tickets: Adults $10 | Students $6

Ticket sales begin on October 13, 2026, at 10 a.m. MT. Tickets may be purchased online at TheMonument.live or in person at The Monument box office. Please note, a $3 cash discount is available per ticket when purchased at the box office.

A Bright Note inspires community.

Bright Note is a new signature for the John T. Vucurevich Foundation’s annual speaker series that brings nationally and internationally recognized thought leaders to Rapid City to share inspiring ideas and meaningful conversations with the community.

In 1993, John T. Vucurevich had an idea–what if our community could connect to and understand the world better from right here in Rapid City. As a voracious reader, John understood the power of a global perspective and bright ideas. The series began with legendary astronomer Carl Sagan, and lives up to its reputation with annual speakers who make a big difference with actions that shine through. Since day one, tickets cost just $7 (or $3 for students) because John believed the event should be accessible to all. The remainder of the balance is picked up by the Foundation as a gift to our community.

Bright Note is an opportunity to dream big, ask questions, and take note of ways to make a piece of our community a brighter place.