Featured Events

January 23, 2024: WACC Ambassadors Circle Series with H.E. Kristjan Prikk, Ambassador of Estonia to the U.S.

The World Affairs Council of Charlotte proudly presents the WACC Ambassadors Circle Series luncheon featuring the distinguished H.E. Kristjan Prikk, the esteemed Ambassador of Estonia to the United States. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, January 23, 2024, as we gather at this luncheon to delve into the intricacies of global affairs and Estonia's vital role in the international landscape. H.E. Kristjan Prikk's extensive diplomatic experience and expertise make him an exceptional guest to engage with. He will provide insights into Estonia's strategic position in Europe, its contributions to regional stability, and the significance of Estonia-U.S. relations. 

December 14, 2023: WACC Speaker Series with Dr. Fiona Hill, Senior Fellow at the Center on the United States and Europe in the Foreign Policy Program at the Brookings Institution

Step into the world of international affairs and gain invaluable insights at the World Affairs Council of Charlotte's highly anticipated event on Thursday, December 14, 2023. Join us for a captivating WACC Speaker Series luncheon featuring the esteemed Dr. Fiona Hill, Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution and Former Senior Director for European and Russian Affairs on the National Security Council. Dr. Fiona Hill's expertise in U.S. foreign policy, Russia, national security, and ongoing geopolitical challenges from Russia's invasion into Ukraine makes her an exceptional voice to guide us through the complexities of international affairs. Her unique insights and experiences shed light on the intricate dynamics shaping the global landscape.

November 30, 2023: WACC Ambassadors Circle Series with Marie Yovanovitch, U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine (2016-2019)

Step into the captivating world of international diplomacy and geopolitics as the World Affairs Council of Charlotte proudly presents an extraordinary event on Wednesday, November 30, 2023. We are honored to host none other than Marie Yovanovitch, the esteemed former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine (2016-2019) and author of the compelling memoir, "Lessons From The Edge." Join us as she takes the stage to share her personal experiences and professional journey, providing an exclusive glimpse into the inner workings of diplomatic missions during her tenure in Ukraine. Gain a deeper understanding of the geopolitical challenges that continue to shape the region, and witness first-hand the extraordinary diplomatic acumen that characterizes Ambassador Yovanovitch's approach to international relations.

November 8, 2023: WorldQuest & Academic WorldQuest 2023

Recognized as the largest international education program of its kind in North Carolina, Academic WorldQuest and WorldQuest will bring together approximately 600 students and community members this year. Teams from all around the greater Charlotte area will participate in this international knowledge competition and answer questions related to current events, history, geography and other topics of global significance.

October 26, 2023: WACC Ambassadors Circle Series Luncheon with Jo Ellen Powell, U.S. Ambassador to Mauritania (2010-2013) and Executive Director of the Uni Chapman Cox Foundation

On Thursday, October 26, Ambassador Powell will address WACC members and guests over lunch as she presents a captivating perspective on strategies to modernize the U.S. diplomatic service, the role of diplomacy in today's global landscape, and opportunities for individuals interested in a diplomatic career. Whether you are a seasoned diplomat, a student aspiring to join the Foreign Service, or simply interested in global affairs, Ambassador Powell's perspectives will be both enlightening and thought-provoking.

October 17, 2023: WACC CEO Series Lunch with Jonathan Dawley, the CEO of KION North America Corporation

We will have the honor of hosting Mr. Jonathan Dawley, the CEO of KION North America Corporation, for an engaging and insightful discussion into the fascinating world of industrial trucks, material handling solutions, and the visionary leadership behind the organization's global success.

October 11, 2023: WACC Speaker Series with Daniel Runde, Author of “The American Imperative: Reclaiming Global Leadership through Soft Power”

Join us on October 11, 2023, for an enlightening WACC Speaker Series luncheon with Daniel Runde. He is a senior VP at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and author of "The American Imperative: Reclaiming Global Leadership through Soft Power." Runde presents a captivating perspective on reclaiming global leadership, highlighting the pivotal role of soft power. Discover how diplomacy, economic engagement, and cultural exchange can effectively address global challenges. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a profound understanding of soft power's significance in shaping global leadership.

September 7, 2023: WACC Speaker Series with Dr. Nina Ansary, Author, UN Women Global Champion for Innovation, and Director of the WACA Global Women’s Lecture Series of America Global Women’s Lecture Series

Join us on September 7 for an enlightening presentation by Dr. Nina Ansary, a distinguished scholar, author, and renowned expert on women's rights and gender equality. Dr. Ansary's extensive research and activism have positioned her as a leading figure in the movement to empower women in Iran. This conversation is timely as we approach the one year anniversary of the brutal murder of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini who was detained, beaten, and placed in a coma by Iran's morality police, the Gasht-e Ershad. This horrific event sparked an unprecedented wave of outrage and protests across the nation and the world.

June 15, 2023: World Citizen Award Dinner Honoring John “Johnny” W. Harris, Chairman and CEO of Lincoln Harris

Since 1990, the World Affairs Council of Charlotte has presented the World Citizen Award to prominent citizens (and organizations) who have enhanced our community's standing in the world through their accomplishments of international significance and contributions to the city, this region, and our international community.

May 24, 2023: WACC Ambassadors Circle Program with H.E. Jacques Pitteloud, Ambassador of Switzerland to the United States

Join the World Affairs Council of Charlotte for a WACC Ambassadors Circle Series on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, with H.E. Jacques Pitteloud, Ambassador of Switzerland to the United States. He will address Switzerland's economic strength, its diplomatic and economic ties to the United States, and its role in helping manage regional security challenges in Europe.

Jump Months

april, 2024

9apr5:30 pm- 7:30 pm2024 China Town Hall: WACC Distinguished Speaker Series with Dr. Shelley Rigger, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty | Brown Professor of Asian Politics at Davidson College (Virtual)2024 Annual CHINA Town Hall with the National Committee on U.S. China Relations

24apr6:30 pm- 8:00 pmAn Evening with H.E. Masood Khan, Ambassador of Pakistan to the U.S.

25apr12:00 pm- 8:00 pmWACC Ambassadors Circle Series with H.E. Masood Khan, Ambassador of Pakistan to the U.S.

X