Step into the captivating world of international diplomacy and geopolitics as the World Affairs Council of Charlotte proudly presents an extraordinary event on Thursday, 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.”

Marie Yovanovitch’s illustrious career as a seasoned career diplomat has left an indelible mark on the realm of foreign policy and international relations. Having served in various critical capacities across the globe, Ambassador Yovanovitch brings unparalleled expertise and insight into the complexities of diplomacy, particularly with regard to the war in Ukraine and eastern European politics.

She will take the stage and 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.

As we dive into the pages of her memoir, “Lessons From The Edge,” we’ll uncover the untold stories of courage, resilience, and determination that shaped her path through the unpredictable world of diplomacy. Delve into the challenges she faced, the triumphs she celebrated, and the lessons she learned along the way.

The WACC Ambassadors Circle Series is renowned for bringing together influential voices in foreign policy, specifically current and former ambassadors, to discuss pressing global issues. This exclusive event promises to be no exception, offering attendees the chance to interact with a diplomatic icon, ask thought-provoking questions, and engage in meaningful discussions about the world’s current geopolitical landscape.

Program Information: 

Date:
Thursday, November 30, 2023
Check-In and Pre-Lunch Networking: 
11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Lunch & Presentation: 
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Location:
Hilton Charlotte Uptown (222 E. Third St., Charlotte, NC 28202)
Cost:
$60 (WACC Member Rate)
$75 (Non-Member Rate)
$45 (Young Professionals of the World Affairs Council of Charlotte — YPWACC)
$35 (WACC Student Member / WACC Educator Member)

  • Please call 704-687-7762 for credit card payments over the phone.
  • Checks can be mailed to “World Affairs Council of Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., CHHS 227, Charlotte, NC 28223.

 

 

 

Biography: 

Marie Yovanovitch is a senior fellow in the Russia and Eurasia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. She is also a nonresident fellow at the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy of Georgetown University. Previously, she served as the U.S. ambassador to Ukraine (2016-2019), the Republic of Armenia (2008-2011), and the Kyrgyz Republic (2005-2008). She also served as the dean of the School of Language Studies at the Foreign Service Institute and as the deputy commandant and international advisor at the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy of the National Defense University. Earlier she served as the principal deputy assistant secretary for the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, where she coordinated policy on European and global security issues. Before that, she was the bureau’s deputy assistant secretary responsible for issues related to the Nordic, Baltic, and central European countries.

In 2003-2004, Ambassador Yovanovitch was the senior advisor to the under secretary of state for political affairs. Prior to that, she was the deputy chief of mission of the U.S. embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine. Within the Department of State, Ambassador Yovanovitch has worked on the Russia desk, the Office of European Security Affairs, and the Operations Center. She has also worked overseas at the U.S. embassies in Moscow, London, Ottawa, and Mogadishu.

A career member of the Senior Foreign Service, Ambassador Yovanovitch has earned the Senior Foreign Service Performance Award eight times and the State Department’s Superior Honor Award on nine occasions. She is also the recipient of two Presidential Distinguished Service Awards and the secretary’s Diplomacy in Human Rights Award. In 2020, Georgetown University granted her the Trainor Award for Excellence in the Conduct of Diplomacy, and Indiana University awarded her the inaugural Richard G. Lugar Award for Public Integrity.

Ambassador Yovanovitch is a graduate of Princeton University where she earned a B.A. in history and Russian studies. She studied at the Pushkin Institute and received an M.S. from the National Defense University.