'Theodore Roosevelt Association Celebrates the 106th Annual Meeting

Hyde Park, NY - The Theodore Roosevelt Association (TRA) successfully hosted its 106th Annual Meeting on October 17-18, 2025, centered on the theme, "The Roosevelt Family Legacy"; With nearly 100 registrants in attendance, this exceptional event brought together historians, civic leaders, authors, and enthusiasts from across the nation to honor the enduring spirit and influence of the Roosevelt family.

Due to the U.S. Government Shutdown, TRA staff swiftly adapted by securing alternative venues in Hyde Park and Poughkeepsie, ensuring a seamless experience for the attendees. Special thanks are extended to Dr. David Woolner and Julie Byron of Marist University in Poughkeepsie, NY for their hospitality in hosting multiple symposium sessions and panels.

On Friday, October 17 th , Edward O’Keefe was awarded the Theodore Roosevelt Association Book Prize for The Loves of Theodore Roosevelt: The Women Who Created a President, recognized for his outstanding scholarship and contributions to Roosevelt history.

Friday night's Welcome Reception was graciously held at the historic Locust Grove Estate in Hyde Park, NY. The evening featured a compelling presentation and book signing by author Dr.Nathalia Holt who discussed her acclaimed work The Beast in the Clouds: The Roosevelt Brothers'; Deadly Quest to Find the Mythical Giant Panda. Holt’s book tells the true and thrilling story of Theodore Roosevelt's eldest sons, Theodore Jr. and Kermit, who embarked on a daring 1928 expedition to find the elusive panda bear across the wilds of China and Tibet.

The 106th Annual Meeting featured stimulating academic panels, including:

• The Authors Panel moderated by Dr. Stacy Cordery featured Dr. Matthew Oyos, Edward O’Keefe, Darrin Lunde, Dr. Michael Cullinane, and Dr. David Woolner.
• A scholarly panel titled “The Roosevelt Family Legacy,” moderated by Dr. Michael Cullinane, featured presentations and discussion from Dr. Stacy Cordery, Dr. Matthew Oyos, and Dr. David Woolner.
• A Fireside Chat on conservation moderated by Dr. David Woolner, featured Theodore Roosevelt IV in conversation with Edward F. O’Keefe.

Saturday’s Awards Dinner and Gala, held at the elegant Inn at Bellefield, highlighted the weekend’s accomplishments. A heartfelt thank you is extended to the Inn at Bellefield staff for their exceptional service. The evening featured an inspiring keynote address by Ivan Schwartz, founder and director of StudioEIS in Brooklyn, NY. Schwartz was honored with the TRA Distinguished Service Medal for his extraordinary contributions including sculptures of Theodore Roosevelt at the American Museum of Natural History and Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. 

The event also celebrated remarkable award recipients:

• LTJG Kevin McCullum, U.S. Navy was named the Junior Officer of the Year. Presented by Vice Admiral David Architzel (Retired), this prestigious award honors his exemplary leadership and dedication aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt, embodying the values of duty, honor, and excellence.
• Nicole Goldstein received the Bertha Benkard Rose Award for Outstanding Service. For over two decades, Goldstein has been a cornerstone of the TRA through numerous leadership roles, dedicating herself tirelessly to preserving Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy.
• Ivan Schwartz & StudioEIS received the Distinguished Service Medal, celebrating his artistic achievements and dedication to preserving American leadership through sculpture.

These engaging discussions celebrated the Roosevelt spirit of service, progress, and stewardship that continue to inspire today's values and leadership.

“In true Roosevelt fashion, we did not let a little adversity stop us from achieving our goal in delivering a memorable Annual Meeting,” said Chris Cosentino, TRA Executive Director. “Thank you to all the generous sponsors, guests, and presenters who helped bring this incredible event to life. A special thank you goes to Julie Bryon and Dr. David Woolner from Marist University as well as Janna Whearty from Locust Grove Estate who opened their doors for us on short notice and delivered exceptional hospitality.”

The 2026 Annual Meeting will be held in Medora, North Dakota at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum on October 9-11, 2026. This highly anticipated event will be jointly hosted by the Theodore Roosevelt Association, Theodore Roosevelt Center at Dickinson State University, and Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.

The Theodore Roosevelt Association thanks the following sponsors for making the 106th Annual
Meeting a success:

• Platinum: Susan Lee and Ron; Eleanor Luke
• Silver: Dr. Alice L. George and Anthony Thompson
• Bronze: Mr. & Mrs. Stephen B. Jeffries
• Community: Boone and Crockett Club, Dave Folz, Dr. Michael S. Harris, Michael & Dee Dee Moran, The Friends of Sagamore Hill, Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, June I. Willson
• Friend: Jay & Ginny Perrell, Theodore Roosevelt IV, William & Martha Tilchin

The Theodore Roosevelt Association would also like to extend its gratitude to Amy Krueger and ThunderShot Studios for their outstanding graphic design support at the 106th Annual Meeting.

About the Theodore Roosevelt Association 

The Theodore Roosevelt Association (TRA) is a non-profit and non-partisan organization. Focused on scholarship, education, and public service, the TRA inspires individuals and enriches their lives through programs and activities, and preserves Theodore Roosevelt’s memory in collaboration with our partners.

To learn more about the Theodore Roosevelt Association, visit www.theodoreroosevelt.org.