Emails to members

Gmail Amy Howard <howardamyjo@gmail.com> September Dialogue 1 message Nur Chodry <nur@worldaffairscounciljax.org> Tue, Sep 9, 2025 at 11:43 AM Reply-To: Nur Chodry <nur@worldaffairscounciljax.org> To: howardamyjo@gmail.com View this email in your browser THE DIALOGUE September 2025 MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR Greetings, Council Sponsors, Members, and Friends, September officially launches our 2025-26 season and I am thrilled to welcome you back! The team has been planning and preparing all summer to ensure we have another educational and entertaining season ahead of us. Coinciding with students returning to school, our Great Decisions high school program recently commenced with a Kick-Off Dinner and Global Trade Dialogue for students and faculty-advisors. We also welcomed our new class of young professionals participating in our Council EDGE Mentorship Program for 2025-26. These young leaders with an interest in world affairs will be interacting with and learning alongside our board and advisory members to continue to hone their leadership skills and prepare to further contribute to our Jacksonville community. Our speaker series opens on September 15 with a Global Issues Evening featuring military veteran and technology executive Jen Easterly, who will speak on “Operating at the Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity”. We then look forward to welcoming Filiz Garip, Ph.D., as our first Global Business Luncheon speaker on October 14. Dr. Garip, a Professor of Sociology and Public Affairs at Princeton University, will share her perspective on “People on the Move: Science, Policy, and Politics of Immigration”. Then Ambassador John Sullivan, former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State and former U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation, will present his “Perspective from the Front Lines of Russia’s War Against the West” on October 21. The World Affairs Council is proud to offer educational programs for Northeast Floridians of all ages. We invite you to explore our website for this season’s speakers and events, and to join us in continuing to learn, connect, and engage in global affairs. AMY MARGERUM BERG Board Chair, World Affairs Council of Jacksonville Great Decisions High School Program Kicks Off! Connecting The World: Jacksonville’s Global Trade On September 4, the Council welcomed more than 130 students from 16 high schools across Northeast Florida to the annual Great Decisions Kick-Off Dinner and Dialogue. This year’s conversation, “Connecting the World: Jacksonville’s Global Trade,” brought the topic to life through an engaging panel discussion. The panel explored the industries and trade routes that connect Jacksonville to the world, the role of emerging logistics technologies, and how national policy decisions directly shape our local economy. Students were active participants, asking thoughtful questions and connecting with experts on a subject with both immediate relevance and long-term significance for their future careers. Panelists included Robert Peek, Chief Commercial Officer at JaxPort; Jorge Arce, Director of the U.S. Commercial Service; David Swanson, Professor of Logistics at the University of North Florida; and Dr. Ashwani Dev, Chief Digital Officer at Crowley. The discussion was moderated by Monica Hernández, President of the First Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Learn More 2025-26 Council EDGE Mentorship Program: Building Global Leaders for Northeast Florida The Council EDGE Mentorship Program continues to be one of our most impactful initiatives, connecting young professionals (ages 21–40) with members of our Board of Directors and Advisory Council. Over the course of nine months, mentors and mentees engage in individual and group outings, including Council events, to exchange insights, develop leadership skills, and build relationships that strengthen both professional and civic life. This year, we are proud to welcome four outstanding mentees: Courtney Ardizzoni, paired with Lark Will, brings international business experience and deep community engagement; Jourdan Luke, paired with Tracy Arthur, offers a fresh perspective shaped by global study and nonprofit service; Monique Stewart, paired with Edythe Abdullah, contributes extensive nonprofit leadership and a passion for education equity; and Lindsey Thomas, paired with Soo Gilvarry, leverages her expertise in IT transformation and civic engagement. Together, this impressive group reflects the diversity, talent, and energy driving Jacksonville’s future leadership. We extend sincere thanks to our mentors for investing their time and expertise. Their guidance ensures that the next generation of leaders will carry forward the Council’s mission of fostering global awareness, dialogue, and community impact across Northeast Florida. UPCOMING EVENTS & PROGRAMS Sept. 15 | Global Issues Evening Join us for a Global Issues Evening presentation: “The Promise and Peril of Emerging Technology: Operating at the Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity.” Premier Member and Sponsor reception at 6:00 PM followed by the presentation at 7:00 PM at the University of North Florida. Click Here to Reserve Oct. 14 | Global Business Luncheon Join us for a Global Business Luncheon presentation: “People on the Move: Science, Policy, and Politics of Immigration.” Tickets are available for members ($65), nonmembers ($85), and Table Sponsorships for 10 ($1,000). This event is hosted in partnership with The River Club and begins at 12:00 PM inside the River Ballroom on the 35th floor. Click Here to Reserve Oct. 20 | Special Engagement Join us for a Special Engagement from 6:00-8:00 PM featuring “An Evening of Dialogue” with Ambassador John Sullivan at the Ortega Home of Bill and Dori Walton. This gathering is only available to Council Sponsors and Ambassador’s Circle members. Click Here to Reserve Oct. 21 | Global Issues Evening Join us for a Global Issues Evening presentation: “Midnight in Moscow: Perspective from the Front Lines of Russia’s War Against the West.” Premier Member and Sponsor reception at 6:00 PM followed by the presentation at 7:00 PM at UNF. Click Here to Reserve Nov. 3 | Special Engagement Join us for a Special Engagement from 6:00-8:00 PM featuring “An Evening of Dialogue” with Brett McGurk at Epping Forest Yacht Club. This gathering is only available to Council Sponsors, Ambassador’s Circle, and Benefactor members. Click Here to Reserve Nov. 4 | Global Issues Evening Join us for a Global Issues Evening presentation: “Unique Perspectives on Geopolitical Hotspots.” Premier Member and Sponsor reception at 6:00 PM followed by the presentation at 7:00 PM at the University of North Florida. Click Here to Reserve Nov. 12 | Leading EDGE Dialogue Join us for a Leading EGE Dialogue: “The New Global Disorder” featuring former US Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul. This event will be held virtually on November 12th from 7:00PM - 8:00 PM in collaboration with the World Affairs Council of Connecticut. Click Here to Reserve Nov. 20 | Leading EDGE Dialogue Join us for a Leading EGE Dialogue: “Headlines & Horizons: Making Sense of a World in Motion” featuring Idrees Kahloon, staff writer from The Atlantic. This event will be held at The River Club in Jacksonville from 6:00 PM to 8:00PM on November 20th. Click Here to Reserve Facebook icon Instagram icon Twitter icon LinkedIn icon Membership Ready to join the over 200 new members this year? Click to explore membership levels or email our membership director. Copyright (C) 2025 World Affairs Council of Jacksonville. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you are a member or sponsor of the Council, or else have engaged with us previously. Our mailing address is: World Affairs Council of Jacksonville 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe Logo This email was sent to howardamyjo@gmail.com why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences World Affairs Council of Jacksonville · 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 · Jacksonville, FL 32202 · USA

Gmail    Amy Howard
Season's Greetings from your WAC
1 message
Trina Medarev    Mon, Dec 22, 2025 at 2:11 PM
Reply-To: Trina Medarev
To: howardamyjo@gmail.com
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Greetings Council Members, Sponsors, and Friends,

 

May your holidays be filled with love, laughter, and magical memories.

 

As the holiday season fills the air and another remarkable year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to send our warmest wishes to you. Your meaningful support and engagement have truly made this an extraordinary year for the World Affairs Council and we are most appreciative.

 

We look forward to being with you once again in the New Year!

 

Warmest Regards,

Trina, Rachel, Traci, & Denise

Your World Affairs Council Team

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Copyright (C) 2025 World Affairs Council of Jacksonville. All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you are a member or sponsor of the Council, or else have engaged with us previously.
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World Affairs Council of Jacksonville
40 E Adams St., Suite 120
Jacksonville, FL 32202
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World Affairs Council of Jacksonville · 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 · Jacksonville, FL 32202 · USA

 

February with Your World Affairs Council
Bethley Luctama
​You​
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As many have observed, our World Affairs Council speakers have an uncanny prescience—so much so that one might think hosting a talk on locusts would ensure the plague itself could not be far behind. In that spirit, we wanted to share a particularly timely and resonant piece by David Brooks, published Friday, which we hope you will take a moment to read.

 

Subject: NYTimes: Time to Say Goodbye

https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/30/opinion/david-brooks-leaving-columnist.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share

 

As he departs The New York Times, Brooks is transitioning into a new chapter that combines journalism and academia—writing for The Atlantic, launching a new podcast, and engaging with students and audiences at Yale. It feels especially meaningful that this moment coincides with his return to our World Affairs Council.

 

During David Brooks’ visits with us in 2005 and 2008, then-World Affairs Council Board Chair, Ambassador Marilyn McAfee, remarked that he is uniquely gifted in holding up a looking glass to our society—inviting us to see ourselves more clearly, thoughtfully, and honestly. Eighteen-plus years on, this upcoming visit offers another powerful opportunity to explore, reflect, and engage in dialogue together.

 

Once again, truly a world of thanks your engagement. Because of your  support, our Northeast Florida community will have the rare and timely opportunity to hear from David Brooks this month—an experience that speaks directly to the heart of what our World Affairs Council exists to do.

 

Also joining us this month is The Economist’s Wall Street Editor, Mike Bird. If you haven’t yet done so, please be certain to secure your reservation for this February 24th Global Business Luncheon. 

Mike Bird is leading coverage of topics across the American financial industry and contributing to coverage of finance globally. He is one of the regular writers of the Buttonwood column, and also the cohost of Money Talks, the paper’s podcast on markets, business and economics.

 

 

 

 

Feb. 24 | 12:00-1:30 PM | The River Club

 

$65 Members | $85 Nonmembers | $1,000 Table Sponsorship for 10

Secure Your Tickets
 
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Copyright (C) 2026 World Affairs Council of Jacksonville. All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you are a member or sponsor of the Council, or else have engaged with us previously.

Our mailing address is:

World Affairs Council of Jacksonville

40 E Adams St., Suite 120

Jacksonville, FL 32202

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World Affairs Council of Jacksonville · 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 · Jacksonville, FL 32202 · USA

 

Amy Howard February with Your World Affairs Council 1 message Bethley Luctama Mon, Feb 2, 2026 at 2:44 PM Reply-To: Bethley Luctama To: howardamyjo@gmail.com View this email in your browser As many have observed, our World Affairs Council speakers have an uncanny prescience— so much so that one might think hosting a talk on locusts would ensure the plague itself could not be far behind. In that spirit, we wanted to share a particularly timely and resonant piece by David Brooks, published Friday, which we hope you will take a moment to read. Subject: NYTimes: Time to Say Goodbye https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/30/opinion/david-brooks-leaving-columnist.html?smid=nytcore-iosshare As he departs The New York Times, Brooks is transitioning into a new chapter that combines journalism and academia—writing for The Atlantic, launching a new podcast, and engaging with students and audiences at Yale. It feels especially meaningful that this moment coincides with his return to our World Affairs Council. During David Brooks’ visits with us in 2005 and 2008, then-World Affairs Council Board Chair, Ambassador Marilyn McAfee, remarked that he is uniquely gifted in holding up a looking glass to our society—inviting us to see ourselves more clearly, thoughtfully, and honestly. Eighteenplus years on, this upcoming visit offers another powerful opportunity to explore, reflect, and engage in dialogue together. Once again, truly a world of thanks your engagement. Because of your support, our Northeast Florida community will have the rare and timely opportunity to hear from David Brooks this month—an experience that speaks directly to the heart of what our World Affairs Council exists to do. Also joining us this month is The Economist’s Wall Street Editor, Mike Bird. If you haven’t yet done so, please be certain to secure your reservation for this February 24th Global Business Luncheon. Mike Bird is leading coverage of topics across the American financial industry and contributing to coverage of finance globally. He is one of the regular writers of the Buttonwood column, and also the cohost of Money Talks, the paper’s podcast on markets, business and economics. Feb. 24 | 12:00-1:30 PM | The River Club $65 Members | $85 Nonmembers | $1,000 Table Sponsorship for 10 Secure Your Tickets Copyright (C) 2026 World Affairs Council of Jacksonville. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you are a member or sponsor of the Council, or else have engaged with us previously. Our mailing address is: World Affairs Council of Jacksonville 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? This email was sent to howardamyjo@gmail.com why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences World Affairs Council of Jacksonville · 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 · Jacksonville, FL 32202 · USA

Amy Howard 🌎 Momentum, Milestones & Meaningful Dialogue 1 message Trina Medarev Thu, Feb 26, 2026 at 12:38 PM Reply-To: Trina Medarev To: howardamyjo@gmail.com View this email in your browser Momentum, Milestones & Meaningful Dialogue! What an extraordinary February it has been for your World Affairs Council. The energy and engagement across our community have been truly inspiring. We began with a spirited Admiral Jonathan T. Howe Academic WorldQuest, where River City Science Academy celebrated its first AWQ victory. The school also took home honors for Best Team Name with the clever, “Tariff Swift: The Errors Tour,” adding a bit of fun and creativity to an already impressive evening. We then welcomed David Brooks for thoughtful and energizing gatherings at the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club and the UNF Arena. As several of you reported difficulty in hearing David Brooks’ Global Issues Evening presentation last week in the UNF Arena, we are pleased to share a link to the recorded presentation. It will only be available for one month. https://worldaffairscounciljax.org/news/ Most recently, Mike Bird delivered a timely and insightful Update from The Economist at The River Club. Together, these programs reflect the vibrancy and relevance of global dialogue in Northeast Florida. The appetite for thoughtful, civil discourse is strong, and you are helping make it possible. And the momentum continues. On April 7, we will join the national CHINA Town Hall. For 19 years, this program has helped communities across the country develop a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the U.S.–China relationship and its impact on our towns, states, and nation. This year’s national webcast will feature Stephen Biegun, former U.S. deputy secretary of state, and Sarah Beran, former deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and former senior director for China and Taiwan affairs at the White House National Security Council. The national conversation will be complemented by our own local town hall discussion led by a China expert. Many of you may remember our previous participation when we welcomed Ambassador J. Stapleton Roy to Jacksonville for the local segment at WJCT Studios. Please hold the evening on your calendar. Details will follow soon. Looking ahead to March, we have learned that Ambassador William Burns is unable to join us on March 31 due to family health reasons. We certainly understand and send our very best wishes. We are working to secure a new date for his visit and will keep you informed as soon as plans are confirmed. Travel the World with Your Council! 🌎 Meanwhile, an exciting global adventure is just around the corner. Seven of our local Council members will join fellow WAC travelers from across the country for a two-week exploration of Cambodia, Vietnam, and the Mekong River through the flagship World Affairs Council of Philadelphia’s Travel the World program. Our delegation departs Monday and returns March 16 this promises to be an unforgettable journey of learning, cultural exchange, and connection. The travel opportunities continue. We are delighted to share that our President and CEO, Trina Medarev has been invited to host next spring’s Celtic Lands featuring Normandy and the D-Day Beaches trip, May 1 through May 10, 2027. This 10-day, 9-night journey will explore the Celtic legacy of France, Ireland, Wales, and Scotland aboard the deluxe small ship Le Laperouse, sailing from Honfleur to Fairlie. Highlights include a full-day Normandy excursion to Omaha Beach, the Normandy American Cemetery, and the Longues-sur-Mer battery, along with visits to Caernarfon Castle in Wales and the Book of Kells in Dublin. The featured guest speaker will be Dwight David Eisenhower II, grandson of President Dwight D. Eisenhower and noted World War II historian. Optional extensions to Paris and Giverny before the cruise, and to Edinburgh and Glasgow afterward, will also be available. If this journey sparks your interest, we would be delighted to share more. Of course, the vibrancy reflected in our programming is a direct result of your engagement and support. The world feels closer because of you. Thank you! Copyright (C) 2026 World Affairs Council of Jacksonville. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you are a member or sponsor of the Council, or else have engaged with us previously. Our mailing address is: World Affairs Council of Jacksonville 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe This email was sent to howardamyjo@gmail.com why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences World Affairs Council of Jacksonville · 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 · Jacksonville, FL 32202 · USA

🌎 Momentum, Milestones & Meaningful Dialogue From: Trina Medarev To: amy@amyjohoward.com Date: 2026-02-26 12:38 View this email in your browser Momentum, Milestones & Meaningful Dialogue! What an extraordinary February it has been for your World Affairs Council. The energy and engagement across our community have been truly inspiring. We began with a spirited Admiral Jonathan T. Howe Academic WorldQuest, where River City Science Academy celebrated its first AWQ victory. The school also took home honors for Best Team Name with the clever, “Tariff Swift: The Errors Tour,” adding a bit of fun and creativity to an already impressive evening. We then welcomed David Brooks for thoughtful and energizing gatherings at the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club and the UNF Arena. As several of you reported difficulty in hearing David Brooks’ Global Issues Evening presentation last week in the UNF Arena, we are pleased to share a link to the recorded presentation. It will only be available for one month. https://worldaffairscounciljax.org/news/ Most recently, Mike Bird delivered a timely and insightful Update from The Economist at The River Club. Together, these programs reflect the vibrancy and relevance of global dialogue in Northeast Florida. The appetite for thoughtful, civil discourse is strong, and you are helping make it possible. And the momentum continues. On April 7, we will join the national CHINA Town Hall. For 19 years, this program has helped communities across the country develop a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the U.S.–China relationship and its impact on our towns, states, and nation. This year’s national webcast will feature Stephen Biegun, former U.S. deputy secretary of state, and Sarah Beran, former deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and former senior director for China and Taiwan affairs at the White House National Security Council. The national conversation will be complemented by our own local town hall discussion led by a China expert. Many of you may remember our previous participation when we welcomed Ambassador J. Stapleton Roy to Jacksonville for the local segment at WJCT Studios. Please hold the evening on your calendar. Details will follow soon. Looking ahead to March, we have learned that Ambassador William Burns is unable to join us on March 31 due to family health reasons. We certainly understand and send our very best wishes. We are working to secure a new date for his visit and will keep you informed as soon as plans are confirmed. Travel the World with Your Council! 🌎 Meanwhile, an exciting global adventure is just around the corner. Seven of our local Council members will join fellow WAC travelers from across the country for a two-week exploration of Cambodia, Vietnam, and the Mekong River through the flagship World Affairs Council of Philadelphia’s Travel the World program. Our delegation departs Monday and returns March 16 this promises to be an unforgettable journey of learning, cultural exchange, and connection. The travel opportunities continue. We are delighted to share that our President and CEO, Trina Medarev has been invited to host next spring’s Celtic Lands featuring Normandy and the D-Day Beaches trip, May 1 through May 10, 2027. This 10-day, 9-night journey will explore the Celtic legacy of France, Ireland, Wales, and Scotland aboard the deluxe small ship Le Laperouse, sailing from Honfleur to Fairlie. Highlights include a full-day Normandy excursion to Omaha Beach, the Normandy American Cemetery, and the Longues-sur-Mer battery, along with visits to Caernarfon Castle in Wales and the Book of Kells in Dublin. The featured guest speaker will be Dwight David Eisenhower II, grandson of President Dwight D. Eisenhower and noted World War II historian. Optional extensions to Paris and Giverny before the cruise, and to Edinburgh and Glasgow afterward, will also be available. If this journey sparks your interest, we would be delighted to share more. Of course, the vibrancy reflected in our programming is a direct result of your engagement and support. The world feels closer because of you. Thank you! Copyright (C) 2026 World Affairs Council of Jacksonville. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you are a member or sponsor of the Council, or else have engaged with us previously. Our mailing address is: World Affairs Council of Jacksonville 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe This email was sent to amy@amyjohoward.com why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences World Affairs Council of Jacksonville · 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 · Jacksonville, FL 32202 · USA

Amy Howard 🌎 Looking Ahead: Join Us Upcoming Leading EDGE Events 1 message World Affairs Council of Jacksonville Thu, Mar 5, 2026 at 1:04 PM Reply-To: World Affairs Council of Jacksonville To: howardamyjo@gmail.com View this email in your browser Looking Ahead: Upcoming Leading Edge Dialogues As we work diligently to reschedule our Global Issues Evening with Ambassador William Burns, there is still much to look forward to! Please take a look at our upcoming events below. Join us as we bring the world closer to Northeast Florida. About This Digital Leading EDGE Dialogue Join the World Affairs Council for dialogue with James Lindsay via Zoom as he covers “The Best and Worst: 250 Years of U.S. Foreign Policy”. James M. Lindsay is the Mary and David Boies Distinguished Senior Fellow in U.S. Foreign Policy and Director of Fellowship Affairs at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). A leading expert on U.S. national security and foreign policy, Lindsay has held senior roles at CFR and previously served on the National Security Council. Join us March 31 on WorldNow with Jim Falk as we explore these foreign policy moves, their impact on the U.S. and the world, and the future of U.S. foreign policy in the century ahead. March 31| 7:00-8:00 PM | Zoom Webinar Register About this Leading EDGE Dialogue April 7 I 5:30-7:30 PM I WJCT Studios This year’s CHINA Town Hall will take place on April 7. To begin the evening, from 5:30-6:15 p.m., a special guest speaker will provide context and insight for the discussion ahead. The official webcast will begin at 6:30 p.m. ET. The discussion will focus on the current state and future trajectory of U.S.-China relationship in the backdrop of the upcoming presidential summit in April with two veteran senior diplomats: Stephen Biegun, former U.S. Deputy secretary of state, and Sarah Beran, former Deputy Chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and former Senior Director for China and Taiwan affairs at the White House National Security Council. This event is open to all Council members. A cash bar and light bites will be available. Secure Your Tickets! Copyright (C) 2026 World Affairs Council of Jacksonville. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you are a member or sponsor of the Council, or else have engaged with us previously. Our mailing address is: World Affairs Council of Jacksonville 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe This email was sent to howardamyjo@gmail.com why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences World Affairs Council of Jacksonville · 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 · Jacksonville, FL 32202 · USA

Gmail Amy Howard Join Us for Leading Edge China Town Hall Event with Guest Speaker 1 message World Affairs Council of Jacksonville Tue, Mar 17, 2026 at 4:30 PM Reply-To: World Affairs Council of Jacksonville To: howardamyjo@gmail.com View this email in your browser CHINA Town Hall In-Person Guest Speaker: Admiral Gary Roughead US Navy (Ret.) Please take a look at our upcoming Leading EDGE event below. This event is open to all Council Members. Join us as we bring the world closer to Northeast Florida. About this Leading EDGE Dialogue April 7 I 5:30-7:30 PM I WJCT Studios This year’s CHINA Town Hall will take place on April 7. To begin the evening, from 5:30-6:15 p.m. we will hear from special guest speaker, Admiral Roughead US Navy (Ret.). Admiral Roughead is a graduate of the US Naval Academy whose naval career culminated in serving as the chief of naval operations, the senior officer in the US Navy. Admiral Roughead will be joining us in person to provide context and insight for the discussion ahead. The official webcast will begin at 6:30 p.m. ET. The discussion will focus on the current state and future trajectory of U.S.-China relationship in the backdrop of the upcoming presidential summit in April with two veteran senior diplomats: Stephen Biegun, former U.S. Deputy secretary of state, and Sarah Beran, former Deputy Chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and former Senior Director for China and Taiwan affairs at the White House National Security Council. There will be a hors d’oeuvres as well as a cash bar. Secure Your Tickets! Copyright (C) 2026 World Affairs Council of Jacksonville. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you are a member or sponsor of the Council, or else have engaged with us previously. Our mailing address is: World Affairs Council of Jacksonville 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe This email was sent to howardamyjo@gmail.com why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences World Affairs Council of Jacksonville · 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 · Jacksonville, FL 32202 · USA

Gmail Amy Howard Global Issues Evening with Ambassador William J. Burns 1 message Trina Medarev Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 2:21 PM Reply-To: Trina Medarev To: howardamyjo@gmail.com View this email in your browser Global Issues Evening with Ambassador William J. Burns Cancelled Due to family health reasons, the Global Issues Evening with Ambassador William J. Burns, scheduled for March 31, 2026, has been cancelled. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this change may cause. Please know we are working to identify a future date to reschedule his visit. Website icon LinkedIn icon Facebook icon Logo Copyright (C) 2026 World Affairs Council of Jacksonville. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you are a member or sponsor of the Council, or else have engaged with us previously. Our mailing address is: World Affairs Council of Jacksonville 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe This email was sent to howardamyjo@gmail.com why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences World Affairs Council of Jacksonville · 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 · Jacksonville, FL 32202 · USA

Gmail Amy Howard Upcoming Student Engagement: First-ever GeoGuessr Challenge 1 message Trina Medarev Thu, Mar 19, 2026 at 11:50 AM Reply-To: Trina Medarev To: howardamyjo@gmail.com View this email in your browser Join the fun: Support the GeoGuessr Global Challenge Dear Council Member, We are excited to invite you to become a sponsor of the first-ever GeoGuessr Global Challenge, a new World Affairs Council of Jacksonville program designed to bring Great Decisions students together for an evening of global learning, competition, and fun. Sponsorship Opportunities Moped – $250 | General Support River Cruise – $500 | Sponsor One Student to Compete Bullet Train – $1,000 | Sponsor a School (2 Students) to Compete Jet Set – $5,000 | Title Sponsor On April 10, the Council will launch this exciting new competition at the University of North Florida’s Esports Lab, where 40 Great Decisions students from across Northeast Florida will compete in a live GeoGuessr tournament. Using clues from Google Street View—everything from architecture and languages to road signs, landscapes, and cultural markers—students will race to determine where they are in the world. The result is an experience that is fast-paced, interactive, and genuinely exciting to watch. Even more importantly, the competition helps students build valuable real-world skills, including critical thinking, problem solving, digital literacy, cultural awareness, and quick decision-making under pressure.Sponsors at any level are welcome to join us on April 10 to cheer on the students in the Boathouse, enjoy food and drinks, and even play GeoGuessr themselves in the Esports Lab on one of our sponsor maps. Event Details Location: UNF Student Union, Flight Deck (2nd Floor) Time: 5:30–8:30 PM Because this is the inaugural year of the GeoGuessr Global Challenge, sponsors have a special opportunity to help launch what we hope will become a signature Council program for students across our region. We hope you will join us in bringing this exciting new initiative to life. Click here to sponsor today: https://worldaffairscounciljax.org/events/calendar/#id=522&cid=1895&wid=1401 Questions or prefer to sponsor by email? Reach out to rachel@worldaffairscounciljax.org. Website icon LinkedIn icon Facebook icon Logo Copyright (C) 2026 World Affairs Council of Jacksonville. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you are a member or sponsor of the Council, or else have engaged with us previously. Our mailing address is: World Affairs Council of Jacksonville 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe This email was sent to howardamyjo@gmail.com why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences World Affairs Council of Jacksonville · 40 E Adams St., Suite 120 · Jacksonville, FL 32202 · USA