Danielle Ponder, a former public defender turned powerhouse singer-songwriter, is redefining what it means to chase your dreams at any stage of life. In her captivating new keynote, From Law to Lyrics: A Brave Leap of Faith and Reinvention, Ponder shares the deeply personal journey that led her to leave a successful legal career to pursue her first love — music.
After nearly a decade fighting for justice in the courtroom, Danielle felt an undeniable calling to the stage. Trusting her intuition and armed with an unshakeable belief in the power of storytelling, she transitioned from lawyer to full-time artist — a decision that has already inspired thousands around the world.
Today, Danielle Ponder’s soul-stirring voice and empowering message of self-trust, courage, and reinvention resonate far beyond the world of music. In her talks, she explores themes of purpose, risk-taking, overcoming fear, and the transformative power of authenticity.
“Leaving my career in law wasn’t about abandoning my passion for justice,” says Ponder. “It was about finding a new way to advocate — through music, through stories, and through human connection.”
Categories
At a Glance
Honors
Danielle Ponder is a singer-songwriter, speaker, and former public defender whose powerful voice and passionate storytelling have captivated audiences worldwide. Her music blends soul, R&B, and powerful lyrical narratives, earning her acclaim from major media outlets and festival stages alike. Danielle’s journey from the courtroom to the concert hall is a living example of bold reinvention, self-belief, and the transformative magic of following one's true calling.
Date
Time
4:00pm
Venue
Fort Hill Performing Arts Center
Moderator
Evan Dawson, renowned journalist and host of Connections with Evan Dawson, is a seasoned moderator with a reputation for insightful and thought-provoking conversations.
As the host of Connections, he engages listeners in thought-provoking conversations about current events, culture, and societal issues. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life makes him a sought-after voice in the media landscape.
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Yes.
Guests may connect to the hearing assistance system using their Bluetooth-enabled hearing
devices. Please bring your smartphone or compatible controller.
Neck loops are also available at the Box Office for guests who prefer not to use Bluetooth.
Yes. The Fort Hill Performing Arts Center is fully ADA accessible.
Accessibility features include:
If you need wheelchair seating, in advance, please notify the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center at
585-412-6043 or info@fhpac.org; or notify the Ewing Forum in advance by email at
info@gmeforum.org or text or call 585-313-8443.
Please note that accessible seating is not available in the mezzanine.
Free parking is available at:
Parking attendants will be on site to direct you.
All Ewing Forum events are held at:
Fort Hill Performing Arts Center
120 Fort Hill Avenue
Canandaigua, NY 14424
Yes. All seating is reserved.
Friends of the Forum receive priority seating. If you purchase tickets through the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center, you may select your seats during the online purchase process, subject to availability.
There are two ways to attend an Ewing Forum event.
Become a Friend of the Forum.
Friends who make a qualifying annual donation receive tickets to Forum events and invitations to post-event receptions with our speakers. An envelope with your tickets for the entire season will be available at a table in the lobby at the first event. Tickets will also be available at the box office of the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center.
Learn more or become a Friend at https://gmeforum.org/forum-friends
Purchase individual event tickets.
Tickets are available by clicking “buy tickets” on the Forum website or through the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center Box Office at 585-412-6043; or online at https://forthillpac.com.
Still have questions?
Please contact us at info@gmeforum.org, or text or call 585-313-8443.