Speaker Series

Founded by Hillary Clinton and Marco Rubio's foreign policy advisers following the 2016 election, the Alliance for Securing Democracy operates on the belief that bipartisanship is central to combating the threat of foreign interference in an impactful way. Rachael Dean Wilson and David Salvo will share their expert insight on the current state of the 2020 elections, the role of state-backed media, and how North Carolinians can stay informed on disinformation and voter security.

Join us as Ambassador Pearson shares his insight on the future of American diplomacy and the cultural and historic context regarding Turkey's actions in Syria.

Join us as Laura Phillips shares her insight on Walmart's environmental responsibilities and efforts, as well how the private sector can work to build a lower-carbon economy.

As the daughter of Chinese immigrants, Helen Zia will share her insight on the historic migrant and refugee exodus during Mao's chairmanship, as well as the lessons America can learn from the revolution.

Paul Dabbar will share his insight on the current state of energy research and technology, as well as the global impact and legacy of the U.S. energy program.

Jim Walsh will share his expertise on the global dimensions of the domestic opioid crisis in terms of healthcare, law enforcement, community health, and policy.

Join us on November 28th for a WACC Speaker Series Luncheon and Private Dinner with Lt. Col. (Ret.) Barry B. Bridger, a highly decorated American Hero, a six years Vietnam prisoner of war, and resident of the famed Hanoi Hilton. 

Join WACC as we host expert panelists for a discussion on Korea's future: Kathleen Stephens, U.S. Ambassador to South Korea (2008-2011) and President, Korean Economics Institute; Lieutenant Commander, Adam Miller, Military Advisor in the Office of Korean Affairs; and Dohwan Kim, Economic Secretary, Embassy of the Republic of Korea.

Join the World Affairs Council of Charlotte, The American Council on Germany, and The N.C. Zeitgeist Foundation on September 20th as we host Peter Beyer, Member of the German Parliament (MdB) and Coordinator of Transatlantic Cooperation. He will share his thoughts on further developing Germany-U.S. economic relations and his outlook on the evolving U.S.-E.U. trade tariffs.