Q&A

November 16. One night, in one room. The 2022 Arthur C. Clarke Awardees, Francis Collins, Esther Dyson, and Cory Doctorow will be introduced by individuals who in their own right are exceptional, Anne Schuchat, Vint Cerf, Erik Viirre.

Before a live audience, our awardees will tackle this year’s Clarke Conversation on Imagination topic: Can we reweave society for collaborative problem-solving? The Conversation will be moderated by broadcast journalist, Steve Scully.

As we count down to this exciting meeting of the minds, live on your computer, or in person at the beautiful French Embassy, Washington D.C., check out these answers to some frequently asked questions:

What is Unleash Imagination?

Unleash Imagination explores the partnership between imagination and empiricism to create a better world. Unleash Imagination builds upon the Foundation’s track record of recognizing and celebrating the world’s most illustrious and creative thinkers, scientists, writers, technologists, business leaders, and innovators via the prestigious Sir Arthur C. Clarke Awards. The Clarke Conversation on Imagination annually brings together these awardees to promote a culture for fresh ideas open to innovative and creative youth.

What is the Clarke Conversation?

Moderated by Steve Scully, this year’s Arthur C. Clarke awardees exchange viewpoints and ideas on a common topic before a live audience. This year’s topic: Can we reweave society for collaborative problem-solving? Check out some of our past Conversations.

Who attends?

The Unleash Imagination program is open to the public, age 10 and up, and offers two ways to attend, either in person or virtually via a link to the live simulcast event.

How do I attend virtually?

How do I attend in person?

Register here and complete the form for one ticket, or a table of eight, at the French Embassy, Washington D.C. Mingle with our guests at the Reception and sit down dinner: 5:00-7:00 pm, followed with the Arthur C. Clarke Awards program and the Clarke Conversation on Imagination 7:15, and a post-program Dessert and Coffee Reception.

Program only: You can choose to skip the dinner and join us for the Arthur C. Clarke Awards and Clarke Conversation on Imagination. Children 10 and over attend the program only option at half price! Learn more here!

What are the rules for attending in person?

Guests will present a photo ID at the embassy gate for entry. (The embassy has changed its requirement for proof of vaccination and no longer asks for it.) We welcome children aged 10 and older.

Dress code: Traditional Business attire, meaning gentlemen will be in a jacket and tie. See photos from last year for examples. We anticipate some people will wear face masks, especially during the program in the Auditorium.

Parking: There is no guest parking at the Embassy, and neighborhood parking is very limited. Guests should be dropped off by a private vehicle or hired car.

Who are the sponsors?

With the sponsorship package including promotion on our website and at the virtual and in person event, and a table at the dinner, our major sponsors continue to grow and include Google, Hughes®, and Iridium®. Individual donors can sponsor a table as well. Contact Paul Julin for more information at ClarkeFoundation@pm.me

Who are some past Arthur C. Clarke Awardees?

Past awardees include Cern, Michio Kaku, Chip Delany, NOVA, Irwin Jacobs, George R.R. Martin, Stephen Hawking, Margaret Atwood, Cixin Liu, Mark Dankberg, Sir Ken Robinson, Vint Cerf, Elon Musk, Freeman Dyson, Walter Cronkite, and these honored awardees.

Can I nominate someone for the Arthur C. Clarke Awards?

Yes! Click here to submit your nominee. And register now to be there this year to meet our impressive trio of winners!

I want to make a donation.

All donations help to support the on-going work and the future of Unleash Imagination programs, supporting intergenerational events and the legacy of Arthur C. Clarke. Learn more here.

Will there be a Silent Auction?

Yes. This year’s Silent Auction will include 10 sets which include autographed copies of
• “The Language of God” by Francis Collins
• “Chokepoint Capitalism” by Cory Doctorow
• “Inventing the Future” by Corinna Lathan

This year’s highest bidders get an additional surprise book for your collection by past awardees William H. Draper, III, or Cixin Liu!

How do I bid on this incredible autographed collection?

Bid in person at the event in Washington
Bids will be collected after dinner. Winners will be announced at the end of the evening. Ten sets will be delivered to the ten highest bidders at the live event at the French Embassy.

Attending virtually, and bidding via email
Email your highest bid, name, and phone number by midnight November 15th to: clarkefoundation@pm.me. Winners will be contacted on November 16th.
Three total sets will be delivered to the top 3 emailed bids.

The winning bidders can pay by check made payable to the Arthur C. Clarke Foundation, by PayPal or credit card. All funds paid above the $125 retail value of the materials are fully tax deductible. ACCF is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization.

Q&A