Global I.q. Minute With Jim Falk

For more than a decade, Robert Costa has been one of the country’s most respected and deeply sourced political reporters, covering the shifting dynamics inside the White House, on Capitol Hill, and across the national security community. As chief Washington correspondent for CBS News – and previously at The Washington Post, NBC News, and Washington Week – Costa has had a front-row seat to the forces reshaping American politics. In this conversation, Costa will explore the trends, emerging power centers, and political undercurrents defining Washington today. Drawing on the deep reporting behind Peril – his bestselling collaboration with Bob Woodward – and his current work at CBS News, he’ll examine how national security challenges, institutional pressures, and evolving leadership dynamics in Washington are influencing U.S. policy and shaping America’s role in the world. Known for his nonpartisan, deeply sourced approach, Costa brings clarity, context, and rare behind-the-scenes insight to a political landsca

HONOREE – Julia Wilson Julia Wilson, an educator with 25 years in the profession, currently serves as the IB Coordinator at Trinity High School, where she has worked for seven years. Prior to this role, she was an IB and AP teacher and the Social Studies Department Chair at Trinity. Julia is the sponsor of the Trinity Junior World Affairs Council, the most active JWAC in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Her JWAC hosts a weeklong Trinity Culture Week with activities for students daily. Her dedication to education has been recognized in multiple ways: in 2013, she was awarded the Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD Elementary Teacher of the Year; in 2019 she was selected as a national delegate for the Street Law Supreme Court Teacher Institute; in 2023 she was awarded the HEBISD Educational Foundation Double Grant; and in 2025 she was awarded a spot on the Council’s UAE teacher study tour. Her principal describes her as “one of the heartbeats of our campus” and “one of the most selfless humans I have ever met.” Julia

Join us for a conversation with Congressman Seth Moulton (D-MA) who will share his perspective on today’s timeliest international topics ranging from strategic competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party to ongoing geopolitical events in the Middle East and beyond. Congressman Moulton will also discuss his work in promoting the next generation of bipartisan congressional leadership and the importance of public service in American life. Congressman Moulton is in his sixth term representing Massachusetts’ 6th District. Moulton served four tours as a Marine in Iraq, including working for General David Petraeus as a liaison to senior Iraqi leadership. He earned joint graduate degrees on the G.I. Bill and worked in high-speed rail before elected office. He serves on the House Armed Services; Transportation and Infrastructure; and Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party. ABOUT THE SPEAKER Congressman Seth Moulton is a veteran, a husband

This is part 3 of the AI Series. As artificial intelligence reshapes the social, legal, and ethical landscape, its impact on human rights is becoming one of the most urgent questions of our time. We will explore the evolving efforts to build meaningful guardrails – from emerging international frameworks like the Council of Europe’s new AI treaty to U.S. state-level action, with California leading the way on privacy protections. The program will also examine the rapidly developing frontier of neurorights: the protection of brain data, mental integrity, and mental privacy in an era where AI and neurotechnology are advancing quickly. What does it take to safeguard our freedoms when the most personal data of all – our thoughts and neural signals – may be at risk? ABOUT THE SPEAKERS Jared Genser has been an international human rights lawyer for more than two decades. He is Managing Director of Perseus Strategies, outside General Counsel to the Neurorights Foundation, and a member of the Advisory Board to the C

Join us for an evening that looks beyond breaking news and political narratives to the people whose lives illuminate global change. Pulitzer Prize–winning author and longtime New Yorker staff writer Lawrence Wright has spent his career uncovering the human stories at the center of world events – from communities transformed by terrorism and authoritarianism to individuals navigating the cultural and political shifts across the Middle East. His reporting has helped define how we understand not just what is happening, but who is affected and why it matters. Wright will explore the themes that animate his work: the tension between power and truth, the fragility of democratic institutions, and the deeply personal experiences that reveal the stakes of global affairs. Drawing on decades of on-the-ground reporting and his acclaimed body of work, he will offer an intimate look at the forces shaping today’s world and the lives caught within them. ABOUT THE SPEAKER Lawrence Wright is a staff writer for The New Yorke

When an American is taken hostage abroad, the crisis doesn’t end at the border – it ripples through families, institutions, and governments for months or years. Join us to explore how these cases unfold and how the U.S. government works to bring Americans home. Ambassador Roger D. Carstens, former U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, will draw on firsthand experience from some of the most high-profile hostage cases of recent years. He’ll shed light on how the U.S. government approaches hostage cases, what families experience behind the scenes, and what communities can learn from these crises. ABOUT THE SPEAKERS Ambassador Roger D. Carstens served as the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs at the U.S. Department of State from 2020 to 2025. During his tenure, he orchestrated and led negotiations with the Taliban, Syria’s Assad Regime, Venezuela’s Maduro government, the People’s Republic of China, Russia, Belarus, and Foreign Terrorist Organizations such as Afghanistan’s Haqqani Net

Part 1 of 4 in the 2026 International Perspectives Series. Once overshadowed by U.S. strategic focus on Europe and Asia, Latin America is now center stage in debates over American influence, economic opportunity, and supply-chain resilience. Join us to examine how recent developments have brought renewed attention to Latin America’s political, economic, and security significance. We’ll explore key issues shaping today’s policy landscape, including U.S. actions toward Venezuela, the strategic importance of critical minerals across the region, and how longstanding ideas about hemispheric security continue to influence U.S. decision-making. This conversation will offer perspective on where U.S.–Latin America relations stand now, what challenges and opportunities lie ahead, and why the Western Hemisphere continues to matter for U.S. priorities and global stability. ABOUT THE SPEAKERS Dr. Benjamin N. Gedan is a Senior Fellow and the Director of the Stimson Center Latin America program. He is an Adjunct Lectu

Join us for breakfast and a timely and wide-ranging conversation with Glen Linder, Assistant Deputy Minister of Global Affairs Canada, as we explore the evolving relationship between the United States and its closest neighbor. Against the backdrop of a rapidly shifting global landscape, this discussion will address current issues shaping Canada’s role on the world stage, including trade dynamics, cross-border relations, and the broader economic and strategic ties that bind our two countries. From regional cooperation to global challenges, this program offers an opportunity to gain insight into the priorities, perspectives, and partnerships that continue to define the U.S.–Canada relationship. ABOUT THE SPEAKER A lawyer by training, Glen Linder began his public service career as a Foreign Service officer. Over his career, he has worked at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the Department of Justice, Public Safety Canada, and Employment and Social Development Canada. Early in his career, he complet

As artificial intelligence becomes embedded in global infrastructure, questions of data ownership, privacy, and control are emerging as defining issues of the 21st century. In this second program of our AI Series, we turn our focus to the new information order taking shape in a hyperconnected world. How will governments balance national security with individual rights? What responsibilities do technology companies bear as the stewards of unprecedented amounts of personal data? And how can democracies safeguard transparency and trust in an era where information can be both weapon and commodity? Join us for a conversation on how innovation, regulation, and ethical governance are reshaping the global contest over information – and the future of digital freedom.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Beth Sanner, former Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Mission Integration and longtime CIA analyst, as she reflects on the national security landscape one year into the second Trump administration. Drawing on her decades of experience briefing presidents and shaping intelligence assessments, Sanner will offer a candid, nonpartisan look at how U.S. foreign policy, intelligence priorities, and global alliances have evolved over the past year – and what challenges lie ahead. ABOUT THE SPEAKER Beth Sanner is the former Deputy Director of National Intelligence, Presidential Daily Briefer, and CNN National Security Contributor. Currently, she is a trusted commentator, lecturer, and strategist for businesses ABOUT THE MODERATOR Jess Koloini is the President and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth. . . Do you believe in the importance of international education and connections? The nonprofit World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth is sup

As Ukraine’s second largest city, Kharkiv became a major target at the outset of the Russian invasion in 2022. As of April 2024, reports suggest that almost a quarter of the city has been damaged or destroyed. For the duration of the war, Mayor Ihor Terekhov has led his city through heavy fighting, shelling and missile strikes, and repeated attempts at advancement by Russian troops. For its people’s bravery in repelling Russian forces, the city was designated a Hero City of Ukraine by the Ukrainian government in 2022. The Council welcomes Mayor Terekhov to share his city’s story of resistance. Members with questions should reach out to Jenny Villatoro at jvillatoro@dfwworld.org. ABOUT THE SPEAKER Ihor Terekhov has served as the mayor of Kharkiv in Ukraine since November 2021. In 2007, he was appointed the Deputy Head Governor of Kharkiv Oblast by Arsen Avakov. He became deputy mayor of Kharkiv in 2010 and first deputy mayor in 2015. He was granted the title of Honored Economist of Ukraine. Terekhov graduate

HONOREE – Emily Ramirez Emily Ramirez is a distinguished educator with 13 years of experience cultivating global awareness and academic excellence as a teacher and a Junior World Affairs Council sponsor. She currently teaches AP World History and Mexican American Studies at Lake Highlands High School in the Richardson Independent School District, where she is recognized for her innovative and culturally relevant teaching methods. As the sponsor of Junior World Affairs Council (JWAC) clubs at Lake Highlands High School and previously at Uplift Williams Preparatory, Ramirez has expanded her impact beyond the classroom by fostering global citizenship and leadership among her students. She co-sponsored the creation of the “Global Awareness Speaker Series,” which has brought experts to her campus from fields such as global health, international business, diplomacy, and human rights. Ramirez has also organized a variety of community service initiatives, including drives for refugee families and hands-on events li

Part 3 of 3 of the Inspiring Success Stories: An American Journey. Elaine Agather’s career in the banking industry took off like a rocket. From her entry into banking in Sherman, TX to her dynamic engagement in banking in New York and the global economy, her charisma and willingness to adapt and show up earned her opportunity after opportunity. Her journey is the epitome of the inspired American journey. Today, she is the chairwoman of the Dallas Region, CEO of the central region, and managing director of The Private Bank for JP Morgan Chase & Co. She joins us in 2025 to discuss her career from New York, London, and San Francisco, Elaine’s Eight (i.e. Saddle Your Own Horse), and what it means to be a woman CEO. Agather will close out the CEO series with President & CEO of Hillwood Aviation Matt Byrd. ABOUT THE SPEAKER Elaine Agather is Chairman of the Dallas Region for JPMorgan Chase & Co. She also serves as the Central Region Head and Managing Director of The Private Bank at J.P. Morgan. Elaine joined Ch

Join us for a conversation with Ken Hersh – renowned investor, business leader, philanthropist, and president and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center. Ken will share his insights into the art and practice of leadership, drawing on decades of experience at the helm of both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. He will explore how effective leadership transcends industries, how mission alignment drives both financial success and social impact, and how he has cultivated a legacy of truly welcoming and resilient workplace cultures. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a leader who has made his name in the business world without compromising himself or his people. ABOUT THE SPEAKER Since 2016, Ken Hersh has served as president and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, which houses the George W. Bush Library and Museum and the George W. Bush Institute. In 1988, he co-founded NGP Energy Capital Management, one of the nation’s largest natural resources private equity firms which pioneered

The Federal Reserve bank cut to interest rates in October, but officials cautioned about lowering the rates too quickly in recent meetings. Uncertainty with China, the Ukraine-Russia war, and the unrest in the Middle East all impact not only foreign policy but also the domestic economy. The Trump Administration has committed to immediately implement policies impacting tariffs and trade, business and regulations, the national debt, and taxes. What will that impact be and how quickly can we expect to feel it? What are the short and long-term implications to the U.S. economy and consumers? Vice Chairman of Goldman Sachs Robert Kaplan will speak to these questions, discuss the current state of the economy, and offer his 2025 economic forecast on January 29. ABOUT THE SPEAKER Robert Kaplan is vice chairman of Goldman Sachs and a member of the management committee. Kaplan initially joined the firm in 1983 and became a partner in 1990. In 2002, he became vice chairman of the firm with global responsibility for the

2025 Sumners Civics Lecture featuring former U.S. Ambassador to Russia John J. Sullivan; moderated by the Bradford M. Freeman Managing Director of Global Policy, the George W. Bush Institute Igor Khrestin. On February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine. James Sullivan, U.S. Ambassador to Russia, recalls being awakened in the middle of the night to a prearranged code when Russian troops crossed the border into Ukraine. He had been warning others that this was a possibility. Why had no one taken the whispers seriously? Could this war have been stopped? The geopolitical atmosphere has since shifted; democracies around the world have clamored, reliant on Ukraine successfully keeping Russia at bay. On March 20, join the Council to hear Ambassador Sullivan’s insider perspective. Ambassador John J. Sullivan, former U.S. deputy secretary of state and former U.S. ambassador to the Russian Federation, is a partner in Mayer Brown’s DC and New York offices. His career spans four decades in public service under five U.S. p

Featuring former U.S. Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman and Inaugural Director of AJC Abu Dhabi: The Sidney Lerner Center for Arab-Jewish Understanding Marc Sievers; moderated by Diplomat in Residence in the John Goodwin Tower Center for Political Studies and International Affairs at Southern Methodist University Robert Jordan. Part 4 of 4 in the 2025 International Perspectives Series. How can the past help us predict the future? Can diplomacy make progress despite rising tensions? How will alliances shape the future of the Middle East and the world at large? Join us for Middle East Alliances: What’s in the Crystal Ball with retired Ambassador Marc J. Sievers to explore the complexity of Middle Eastern alliances and learn the path forward to full collaboration. ABOUT THE SPEAKER Ambassador Marc J. Sievers (ret.), inaugural Director of AJC Abu Dhabi: The Sidney Lerner Center for Arab-Jewish Understanding, was a U.S. diplomat for more than 30 years, serving across the Middle East and North Africa, as well

A VIRTUAL event, featuring Senior Fellow at the Middle East Institute Paul Salem and moderated by interim CEO of the Council Jim Falk. The first missile strikes of Israel’s operation “Rising Lion” accounted for the most widespread single-day assault Iran has experienced since the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s. They targeted Iran’s nuclear program and military encampment sites and killed some of Iran’s most important military leaders and scientists instrumental in their nuclear operations. In response, Iran launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones into the densely populated regions of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. What does this mean for the region and the possibility of a nuclear treaty? What role will the U.S. play in forging negotiations? What is the possibility of nuclear response? Join us for a RealTime Report on Thursday, June 19, featuring senior fellow at the Middle East Institute Paul Salem (joining from Beirut) and moderated by interim CEO of the Council Jim Falk. ABOUT THE SPEAKER Paul Salem is

Liz Brailsford, Marc J. Sievers, and Robert Jordan sit down for a conversation ahead of our event "Middle East Alliances: What’s in the Crystal Ball?"

Liz Brailsford and Ihor Terekhov sit down for a conversation ahead of our event "Kharkiv’s Story: Leadership, War, and the Fight for Democracy."