Koppel will appear during the grand opening ceremonies beginning 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, in the Orange County Convention Center, South Building.

Koppel, a 42-year veteran of ABC News, is most widely known as the long-time lead anchorman for Nightline, a position he held when the program began in 1980 during the Iranian hostage crisis.

As a veteran newsman, Koppel has interviewed the world's leading political and cultural figures throughout his five-decade career and won every major broadcasting award, including 41 Emmys.

As the managing editor for The Discovery Channel, he continues to give in-depth reporting on global issues. He also serves as a contributing columnist for the New York Times and provides regular commentary on National Public Radio.