Global Issues Evening with Brett McGurk: “Unique Perspectives on Geopolitical Hotspots”
On November 4, the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville welcomed Brett McGurk, White House Coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa, for a Special Engagement conversation on “Unique Perspectives on Geopolitical Hotspots.” In dialogue with Ambassador Nancy Soderberg, McGurk offered an insider’s view of shifting dynamics across the Middle East. The Council was honored to host Mr. McGurk for this candid, wide-ranging discussion on diplomacy, security, and America’s role in a rapidly changing Middle East. Please click HERE to read Council member Paul Herman’s detailed recap of the evening, presented in partnership with the University
Global Issues Evening with Amb. John Sullivan: “Midnight in Moscow”
On October 21, the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville welcomed Ambassador John J. Sullivan, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia (2019–2022), to the University of North Florida for a gripping Global Issues Evening titled “Midnight in Moscow: Perspective from the Front Lines of Russia’s War Against the West.” Drawing from his firsthand experience in Moscow, Ambassador Sullivan provided a sobering yet incisive look into Russian President Vladimir Putin’s worldview and the geopolitical ambitions driving the war in Ukraine. As the evening concluded, Sullivan urged the audience to interpret Moscow’s refusal to engage in recent U.S. proposals
Global Issues Evening with Jen Easterly: “The Promise and Peril of Emerging Technology”
On September 15, the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville welcomed Jen Easterly, Director of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), to the University of North Florida for a timely and thought-provoking Global Issues Evening on “The Promise and Peril of Emerging Technology.” Easterly, former head of CISA and one of the nation’s foremost voices on cybersecurity, described Artificial Intelligence (AI) as “the most powerful technology of our lifetime.” While acknowledging its potential to both strengthen and undermine security, she emphasized that if developed responsibly, AI could “tip the balance in favor of cyber defense.” Easterly framed
Student Adventures Abroad: Rosemarie Baker
For Rose Baker, a business student in the dual bachelor’s degree program between the University of North Florida (UNF) and the University of València (UV), studying abroad wasn’t just a semester-long detour; she planned to fully immerse herself in Spanish culture. As part of the Transatlantic Business School Alliance (TABSA) consortium, Rose spent two years in Spain after completing her studies in Jacksonville, Florida. Now as she prepares for her final semester and a four-month Spanish-immersive internship, she reflects on how this journey has shaped not just her academic path but also her outlook on life and the world.
Women’s History Month Spotlight – Trina Medarev
March is Women’s History Month. Throughout the month, the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville is proud to highlight women who have shown outstanding leadership, created lasting legacies, and contributed to the Council’s success. Today, we feature Trina Medarev, a dedicated leader whose vision and tireless devotion has cultivated the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville into the vibrant organization it is today. As President & CEO of the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville, Trina has played a pivotal role in expanding the Council’s reach and impact. When she assumed leadership in 2005, the Council had just 400 members. Under her
Women’s History Month Spotlight – Amy Margerum Berg
March is Women’s History Month. Throughout the month, the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville is highlighting the women who have displayed immense leadership, created a lasting legacy, and contributed towards the Council’s success. Their contributions have been integral to the growth and influence of the Council. Today, we highlight Amy Margerum Berg, a visionary leader whose dedication and direction have shaped institutions, communities, and global conversations. Born in Los Angeles, California, Amy earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with honors from the University of California, Santa Cruz. She completed a master’s degree in marine policy, with a minor in