It all begins with civil discourse.

Maybe you want to learn more about the world. Maybe you want to connect with others in Vermont. Or maybe you have a unique perspective you want to share with the world. Whatever the reason, joining in civil discourse with others from around the globe can make all the difference.

VCWA International Speaker Series

The VCWA’s International Speaker Series aims to foster an awareness of global issues by promoting civil discourse through timely discussions with international experts. We do this through partnering with NGOs, corporations, government agencies and individuals to arrange timely discussions on critical international topics.

Registration for our 2025 International Speaker Series is now open!
Click the button below to learn more and register.

The Vermont Council on World Affairs’ 2025 International Speaker Series, Civil Discourse in a Changing World: U.S. Leadership and Global Challenges, will examine how shifting policies and priorities will influence the role the United States plays in global affairs, from technological advancements and economic resilience to trade dynamics and diplomatic strategy.

Over four virtual sessions, this series will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, and experts to explore how the new administration will impact key global issues and what these changes mean for Vermont and the world.

Past Speaker Highlights

  • Richard Haass

    PRESIDENT, COUNCIL ON FOREIGN RELATIONS

  • Thomas Friedman

    COLUMNIST, THE NEW YORK TIMES

  • Capricia Penavic Marshall

    FORMER CHIEF OF PROTOCOL OF THE U.S.

  • Bill Mckibben

    AUTHOR, ENVIRONMENTALIST, EDUCATOR

  • Kelley Currie

    FORMER U.S. AMBASSADOR AT LARGE FOR GLOBAL WOMEN’S ISSUES

  • Nina Ansary

    WOMEN’S RIGHTS ADVOCATE, AUTHOR

  • Mpanzu Bamenga

    LAWYER, DIPLOMAT, ACTIVIST

  • Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove

    COVID-19 TECHNICAL LEAD, WHO

  • Elizabeth Shackelford

    AUTHOR AND FORMER U.S. DIPLOMAT

  • Sarwar Kashmeri

    INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS SPECIALIST

  • Tara Kangarlou

    AUTHOR, HEARTBEAT OF IRAN

  • Jim Sciutto

    CNN NEWS CORRESPONDENT

  • Shalonda Spencer

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF WOMEN OF COLOR ADVANCING PEACE AND SECURITY

Past VCWA Speaker Series

“I firmly believe that individuals have the right, if not the responsibility, to help shape U.S. foreign relations. The VCWA provides us with a platform to be citizen diplomats. Whether welcoming Ambassadors to our state, hosting international visitors, or learning about the global impacts of climate change or immigration policy; we can practice citizen diplomacy.”

— Peter Clavelle, Board Member