Embracing the AI Revolution – A Recap of Ethan Mollick’s Visit
On February 11, the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville welcomed Ethan Mollick, a leading voice in artificial intelligence and innovation, to the University of North Florida for a thought-provoking Global Issues Evening presentation on "Embracing the AI Revolution." Dr. Mollick, a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and an expert on AI’s impact on business, education, and society, explored the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and how individuals, companies, and institutions can adapt to this transformative technology. His engaging presentation blended real-world examples, cutting-edge research, and a practical framework for understanding the opportunities and challenges
Finding Our Global Roots – A Recap of Henry Louis Gates, Jr. Visit
On January 21, the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville welcomed renowned scholar, author, and filmmaker Henry Louis Gates, Jr. to the Lazzara Performance Hall at the University of North Florida for a captivating Presidential Global Issues Evening presentation. Dr. Gates, celebrated for his groundbreaking work in genealogy and African American history, took the audience on a journey through the power of ancestry and DNA research, drawing from his acclaimed PBS series, Finding Your Roots. Through compelling storytelling and video clips from his immensely popular show, he illuminated the ways in which our personal histories are deeply intertwined—across race, geography,
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