The New Cold Wars: A Recap of David Sanger’s Visit
On December 4, 2024, 3-time Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David Sanger delivered an incisive presentation entitled "The New Cold Wars" at the University of North Florida, exploring the evolving dynamics of global power. Sanger reflected on the world American leaders anticipated in the 1990s—one where major powers like Russia and China aligned with U.S. values and leadership—that never materialized. Instead, he posited, the next 30 years will be defined by contention, with Moscow and Beijing leading efforts to construct an alternative to the U.S.-led international system. He traced this shift to pivotal moments, including Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014
The Future of Warfare: A Recap of General David Petraeus’s Visit
Following his introduction to the stage during Monday's sold-out Global Issues Evening, General David H. Petraeus, USA (Ret.), opened with a touch of humor: “Thank you for that introduction. And thank you for leaving out the part about me being Time Magazine's 'Person of the Year' runner-up to Vladimir Putin. However, I'm happy to report I've been sanctioned by Vladimir Putin in the past couple of years for my support of Ukraine.” This light-hearted start set the tone for an insightful evening, offering a nuanced view of a decorated American leader with a distinguished yet complex history. In conversation
China and Its Place in the World: A Recap of David Rennie’s Visit
On October 7, 2024, the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville hosted a captivating Global Issues Evening at the University of North Florida, featuring David Rennie of The Economist. Rennie offered unique insights into the evolving dynamics of the U.S.-China relationship and the impacts of that relationship on geopolitics, the global economy, and ongoing and potential conflicts in Europe and Asia. Rennie focused his presentation on the question of "what does China want?" And in response to that question suggested that the United States developed a posture of both panic and complacency. The panic stemming from China's perceived dominance in
Confronting Complex National Security Issues: A Recap of Jane Harman’s Visit
On Monday, September 30, the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville hosted an engaging and insightful evening with Jane Harman, former U.S. Congresswoman and President Emerita of the Wilson Center, at the University of North Florida. Harman's presentation centered on global security challenges and the evolving geopolitical landscape, drawing on her extensive experience in national security and foreign policy. She emphasized the importance of strong, informed leadership in addressing complex international issues such as geopolitics, cyber threats, and political alliances. Harman's remarks resonated with the audience, particularly her focus on bipartisan cooperation and the critical role that diplomacy plays in
Student Adventures Abroad: Kayla Drake
When Kayla Drake applied for the Ambassador Marilyn McAfee Study Abroad Scholarship through the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville, she did so on a leap of faith. As a rising junior at the University of North Florida, Kayla had never ventured far from home, let alone out of the country. Kayla Drake in Greece “I want to travel for many reasons, one being that I’ve never left the country before,” Kayla wrote in her application. “Going to college just 30 minutes from home has already broadened my horizons immensely. I can’t begin to imagine how much more
Creekside High School Triumphs at the 2024 Admiral Jonathan T. Howe Academic WorldQuest
In February, the team "Iran to First Place" from Creekside High School lived up to their name, clinching victory at the 19th annual Admiral Jonathan T. Howe Academic WorldQuest competition. This achievement earned them a spot at The Carlos and Malu Alvarez National Academic WorldQuest Competition, where they competed against top students from councils nationwide in the heart of Washington D.C., with all-expenses-paid trip by the Council. Meet the Winning Team "Iran to First Place" is consists of four outstanding students from Creekside High School: Juniors Sohum Sheth and Addison Hopwood, and Seniors Sam Kass and Benjamin York. With