Opening and closing sessions in New Orleans feature powerful speakers

Tuohys keynote opening session

Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy’s life, as chronicled in New York Times number-one bestseller, "The Blind Side," went on to become a record-breaking Hollywood blockbuster that earned more than US$300 million at the box office and became the number-one opening weekend for a sports film in history.

"The Blind Side" tells the story of Michael Oher, a homeless teenager turned first round draft pick NFL football player, with the support and love of an unlikely adoptive family: Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy. 

At the podium, Sean and Leigh Anne share their personal Blind Side observations from the perspective of dedicated parents. The couple invites audiences to go behind-the-scenes of the Tuohy household with a heartwarming message: "In our house, we believe in miracles."

The couple will be the keynote speakers during the opening session in New Orleans.

Carville, Matalin on stage together

One of America’s best-loved political couples—James Carville and Mary Matalin—will appear on the stage together in New Orleans as keynote speakers during the closing session of the Kiwanis International convention.

Carville and Matalin give audiences an enlightening and entertaining look at today’s most important political issues as well as a behind-the-scenes look at politics inside Washington and how today’s headlines are playing out around the country. They are key players on the national political stage, offering  more than 30 years of experience in politics. They combine their unique experiences to provide audiences with a stimulating, candid and provocative conversation from both sides of the political aisle.

Matalin and Carville reside in New Orleans with their daughters, Matalin "Matty" Carville and Emerson "Emma" Carville. Matalin and Carville will be co-chairs of the host committee for the 2013 Super Bowl in New Orleans.