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For over two decades, here in Palm Beach, our popular LUNCHTIME SPEAKER SERIES has been bringing together open minds in civil conversation. Featuring luminaries from the worlds of finance, medicine, education, the arts and the humanities, this dialogue, personally curated by The Institute's Founding Director Dale Coudert, tackles the heart of today's relevant topics. Each season these world visionaries remind us that perhaps what we all have in common are... the questions.
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Remembering Robert Monks
1933 - 2024
With deep respect and heartfelt gratitude, we remember Robert Monks, a long-time Board Member who passed away at the age of 91.
Bob, a distinguished lawyer and businessman from a prominent Massachusetts family, lived a life of purpose, intellect, and generosity. In 1964, he married the love of his life, Millicent, fondly known as "Milly" to many in our community. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising two children and later cherishing the presence of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. About 25 years ago, Bob began spending his winters in Palm Beach— a move that would prove transformative not only for him, but for the community's cultural landscape.
While serving together on the Kennedy Center's board in Palm Beach, Bob met Dale Coudert. Their shared commitment to civic and cultural engagement sparked a vision for something more—a space where bold ideas, deep discussions, and meaningful human connection could flourish. Bob encouraged Dale to "make Palm Beach more interesting." From that simple, sincere nudge, the Coudert Institute was born.
The Coudert Institute was founded as a non-partisan, non-political space for intellectual exchange thanks to Bob's encouragement and unwavering belief in the power of dialogue. Its extraordinary programming has engaged and inspired the Palm Beach community for over two decades, inviting speakers and participants alike into a thoughtful and intimate environment. Whether in agreement or respectful disagreement, all voices are welcomed and heard—a principle Bob deeply valued.
Bob was a guiding force in the Institute's creation and a steadfast friend and generous benefactor. His vision and spirit are woven into the very fabric of our mission. As we prepare to celebrate the Coudert Institute's 25th Anniversary Season in 2025-2026, we do so in honor of Bob's legacy and with gratitude for all he made possible.
He will be dearly missed, but his light will continue to shine in every conversation, every gathering, and every idea shared under the Coudert Institute's roof.
Thank you, Robert Monks!