WAC Public Programming
Discover the world without leaving Kentuckiana. You’re invited to join us for captivating speaker events, where you can interact with diplomats, world leaders, and industry experts, and explore pressing global issues.
Upcoming Events
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Our Speaker Series bridges local and global perspectives by bringing international experts, diplomats, scholars, and changemakers directly to our community. Through thoughtful, nonpartisan conversations, the series creates a space for civil discourse on the most pressing issues shaping our world today.
Each event offers attendees the opportunity to engage with diverse viewpoints, participate in dynamic Q&A discussions, and gain deeper insight into global affairs. By connecting global thought leaders with local audiences, the series broadens horizons, encourages critical dialogue, and fosters greater cultural understanding.
More than just lectures, these events serve as catalysts for building bridges across cultures, cultivating empathy, and empowering individuals to engage meaningfully with our increasingly interconnected world.
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With education at the center of our mission, the WAC is able to provide a limited number of complimentary tickets for students and educators who wish to attend our Speaker Series.
If you are an educator or student and would like more information on reserving these tickets, please contact us!
The WAC Speaker Series brings together forward-thinking diplomats, authors, and thought leaders from diverse fields to share their expertise with our community.
WAC Speaker Series
Great Decisions Discussion Series
Every year the World Affairs Council puts on the Great Decisions Discussion Series, based on the Great Decisions Briefing Books from the Foreign Policy Association.
This series is stands as the foremost American forum on global affairs, with discussions taking place all over the country. We are honored to host a discussion group for our area.
2501 Grinstead Drive
Louisville, Kentucky 40206
United States
Date: Always on Wednesdays
Time: 5:30PM to 7:00PM
Location: Always at Fante's Coffee House
Great Decision Disucssion Details
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Inspired by the Great Decisions Briefing Book published annually by the Foreign Policy Association, the Great Decisions Discussion Series brings people together to explore and discuss the most pressing global challenges of our time.
Recognized as America’s largest discussion program on world affairs, Great Decisions is more than a lecture series—it’s a dynamic, community-based conversation. Each session begins with expert analysis from the briefing materials and continues with facilitated group discussion, creating space for thoughtful dialogue, diverse viewpoints, and informed civic engagement.
The first Great Decisions group was launched in 1954 in Portland, Oregon, by FPA Vice President Roger Mastrude. Built on a grassroots, face-to-face discussion model, participants read background materials on eight key foreign policy topics before gathering to exchange perspectives. Opinion ballots were collected and shared with the U.S. Department of State, giving citizens a direct voice in national conversations. The program quickly gained media attention, expanded into schools and communities across the country, and grew into a nationally recognized forum.
More than 60 years later, the same interactive model continues nationwide, engaging tens of thousands of participants each year. Whether you are passionate about global affairs or simply curious to learn more, the Great Decisions Series offers a welcoming space to connect, exchange ideas, and explore the world—together.
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American and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy - January 21st, 2026
Ukraine and the Future of European Security - February 11th, 2026
Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy - March 11th, 2026
Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order - May 14th, 2026
U.S.-China Relations - June 10th, 2026
The Future of Human Rights and International Law - July 15th, 2026
U.S. Engagement of Africa - September 16th, 2026
Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation - October 14th, 2026
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The program model involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book and meeting in a Discussion Group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today.
Each year, eight topics are chosen by a panel of experts.
The Great Decisions Briefing book can be purchased from WAC during registration and picked up at our office or at the discussion.
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Respect all participants by listening actively, avoiding interruptions, and refraining from personal attacks or disrespectful behavior.
Stay on topic by focusing on the discussion theme for the session and avoiding unrelated tangents.
Foster inclusive dialogue by encouraging everyone to participate and being mindful not to dominate the conversation.
Support your points with facts or examples and remain open to new information or perspectives.
Embrace diverse viewpoints, seeing disagreements as opportunities to learn rather than arguments to win.
Follow the moderator’s guidance to keep the discussion on track and within time limits.
Maintain confidentiality by respecting personal information shared during the discussion.
Prepare for the session by reviewing the Great Decisions Briefing Book and coming ready to contribute.
Keep your contributions concise to allow time for everyone to share their thoughts.
Approach the discussion with curiosity and an open mind, and enjoy the opportunity to learn and grow.
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Are you passionate about global issues and love sparking thoughtful dialogue? Volunteer as a moderator for our Great Decisions Discussion Series! Moderators play a vital role in guiding engaging conversations on the most pressing international topics, creating a space for participants to share ideas, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of the world.
No prior experience? No problem! We’ll provide all the resources you need, including expert insights from the Great Decisions Briefing Book. Whether you’re a seasoned facilitator or new to leading discussions, this is a great way to connect with others, expand your own global knowledge, and make a meaningful impact in our community.
If you are interested in facilitating any of the series, please contact us!
