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
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
Deciphering the Russia-Ukraine Conundrum: Insights from Matthew Rojansky’s Visit
As the world spins madly on, what remains at the center of the world's attention is the Russia-Ukraine war. While the war has carried on for over two years now, the implications of the conflict carries significant weight across the globe. For Americans, awareness has been heightened as the U.S. government weighs its commitment to Ukraine while balancing other fiscal and political responsibilities. Further, Tucker Carlson's visit to Russia and interview of President Vladimir Putin generated considerable buzz, particularly during an election year that could drastically shape diplomatic relations between the U.S., Russia, and Ukriane. As a result,