Keynote Speaker     Thursday, July 15

Matthew Whitaker

Former Acting Attorney General

of The United States

​

In today's modern world, law and politics dominate the news and drive the conversation. With over 25 years of experience in the arena of law and politics at the highest levels, including a close relationship with former President Donald Trump and other colleagues in the cabinet, Whitaker will bring insight and understanding to this dynamic landscape. Whitaker has been in the room and has had a front row seat when some of the most critical decisions have been made in Washington DC. The audience will come to understand how Washington DC works and how to navigate a complex system is often key to business success. Set to speak in 2020, Matt will also reflect on how his presentation changed over the course of the year.

About Mr. Whitaker

​

An American lawyer and politician, Matthew G. Whitaker served as the acting Attorney General of the United States from 2018 to 2019. As the country’s top lawyer, he oversaw all activities of the Justice Department and advised on critical issues of domestic and international law, including directly supervising Robert Mueller’s Special Counsel investigation.

Prior to becoming acting Attorney General, Whitaker served as Chief of Staff to Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Whitaker was the managing partner of Des Moines based law firm, Whitaker Hagenow & Gustoff LLP from 2009 until rejoining Department of Justice in 2017. He was previously appointed as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa by President George W. Bush, serving from 2004-2009. He was also the Executive Director for FACT, The Foundation for Accountability & Civic Trust, between 2014 and 2017.

Since leaving the Justice Department, Whitaker joined the Kansas City-based law firm, Graves Garrett, as of counsel. He is also currently the managing director at the consulting firm, Axiom Strategies, working on client public affairs, business development, and strategic vision.

Whitaker graduated with a Master of Business Administration, Juris Doctor, and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Iowa. While at Iowa, he was a three-year letterman on the football team where he received the prestigious Big Ten Medal of Honor.

Thanks to ACT 1 for their sponsorship of Matthew Whitaker's

Keynote Address