SPAC in Conversation: Dorothy Wickenden
New Yorker writer, editor, and bestselling author of The Agitators: Three Friends Who Fought for Abolition and Women’s Rights
Wednesday • Oct 07, 2026 • 10:00am
Hall of Springs
JOIN US FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY OF CONVERSATION, COMMUNITY, AND INSPIRATION.
Experience an extraordinary afternoon with Dorothy Wickenden, bestselling author, writer, and longtime New Yorker editor, as she explores the remarkable true story behind The Agitators — three fearless women whose friendship, conviction, and courage helped shape the fight for abolition and women’s rights. Moderated by former New York Times Style Photo Editor Tiina Loite, this timely conversation will examine the power of storytelling, the women who changed the course of history, and the enduring impact of their voices today.
Wickenden has spent a career chasing the stories history almost forgot — from the women who quietly rewired the fight for abolition and suffrage, to the untold forces shaping justice long before it had a name. Expect a conversation that’s as sharp and unflinching as her prose.
Spend the day with us for a seasonal luncheon, spirited conversation, and a curated boutique shopping experience to complete the day — all in support of SPAC’s mission to serve art, artists, and community.
JOIN US TODAY AS A SPONSOR OR A MEMBER OF THE HONORARY COMMITTEE
You may also reserve by phone at 518.584.9330 ext. 142 or email at mmccarthy@spac.org.
Please confirm your participation by August 28, 2026.*
Make a donation in lieu of attendance
*Regular tickets go on sale to the public on September 1.
Event Timing at a Glance
| 10AM | Doors open, boutique shopping begins |
| 12PM | Lunch served |
| 12:30PM | Conversation with Dorothy Wickenden |
| 1:15PM | Raffle drawing |
| 1:30PM | Book signing and boutique shopping resumes |
| 2PM | Event ends |
Dorothy Wickenden‘s extensive portfolio of writing includes wide-ranging topics, from humanitarian aid workers in Gaza and the last lighthouse keeper in America, to India’s rewilding movement and the pre-Civil War battles against white supremacy. Wickenden‘s books, The Agitators and Nothing Daunted: The Unexpected Education of Two Society Girls in the West, are New York Times best sellers. She was executive editor of The New Yorker for 26 years and previously served as executive editor of The New Republic and national affairs editor of Newsweek.
Presented by the SPAC Action Council │ Action Council President: Eileen Whelley
Event Co-Chairs: Emily Reilly, Elissa Smith, Karen Macielak
SPAC is a 501c3 charitable organization.
Donations and proceeds from fundraising events support our work to serve art, artists, and community.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center, 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866