Vermont Council on World Affairs

10/14/2026

The Global Race for Critical Minerals

is hosting a timely conversation on the growing global competition for critical minerals and what it means for national security, technology, energy, and the global economy.

Join Dr. Gracelin Baskaran and Dr. Michael Winter for a discussion on China’s role in global mineral supply chains and the race to secure these essential resources.

VCWA members and friends are invited to join this important conversation. Learn more and register through the link in our bio.

This event is virtual and free but registration is required.

10/08/2026

Thank you for leading our visitors on such a special and meaningful tour at Ethan Allen Homestead. We can't wait to send another group your way!

Earlier this month we had a blast hosting a group of visitors from Bhutan through Vermont Council on World Affairs ! It was great to explore the history of the Homestead through a new perspective. Thanks so much for visiting!

10/06/2026

On Wednesday, September 23rd, the VCWA World Summit brought our community together for meaningful dialogue, diverse perspectives, and thoughtful conversations on the challenges and opportunities shaping our world today.

The biggest thank you once more to our speakers sponsors, and attendees. This day would not have been possible without you, and we are so grateful to have your names alongside ours on a day rooted in connection, understanding, and a shared commitment to building a more peaceful and engaged global community.

09/16/2026

ONE WEEK TO GO!

In just 7 days, leaders, experts, and community members will come together for the Vermont Council on World Affairs’ State of the World Summit — a day of timely conversations about the global issues shaping our world and our communities.

Big questions. Fresh perspectives. Meaningful conversation.

There’s still time to join us.

📅 September 8
📍 Burlington, Vermont

🎟️ One week out — now’s the time to reserve your seat.

09/13/2026

Did you know National Security Corespondent and guest speaker JJ Green wrote a book: The Noise War: How to Fight Disinformation and Find the Truth When Everything Is Lying to You. Conference Attendees will have the opportunity to see how information from that book relates to the topic at hand- additionally, there will be a specific time for book signing and networking- grab your tickets today for our September 23rd event!

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-state-of-the-world-summit-celebrating-international-day-of-peace-tickets-1990572325410?aff=oddtdtcreator

Snag a copy of "The Noise of War" here: https://www.amazon.com/Noise-War-Fight-Disinformation-Everything/dp/B0GK4RBBBY

09/11/2026

Session 3: Panel
From Maple Syrup to Microchips: How Global Economics and Geopolitics Shape Vermont
This panel will dive into the recent examples of how foreign policy becomes local: the impact of U.S. military engagement in the Middle East on the global economy. The security of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes, has implications far beyond the region. Changes in shipping security, energy prices, insurance costs, and global supply chains can ripple through the U.S. economy, affecting everything from fuel and fertilizer prices to manufacturing costs and grocery bills in Vermont.
This discussion will explore how current geopolitical conflict, trade policy, energy security, and industrial strategy are increasingly interconnected, and how decisions made in Washington and abroad shape economic opportunities and challenges for Vermont's farmers, businesses, workers, and consumers.

ANSON TEBBETTS | Secretary of Agriculture, Food & Markets

AMY SPEAR | President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

MELISSA WILLARD-FOSTER| Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Vermont

MIKE RAINVILLE | President of Maple Landmark, Inc.

A special thank you to our sponsors:





We're grateful for your support in bringing important global conversations to Vermont!

Get your ticket today: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-state-of-the-world-summit-celebrating-international-day-of-peace-tickets-1990572325410?aff=oddtdtcreator

09/10/2026

When we hear "international affairs," it's easy to think of events happening somewhere else.

But global issues don't stop at national borders. They influence our economy, our businesses, our communities, and even our daily lives here in Vermont.

That's why this year's State of the World Summit is centered around one guiding question:

How do global forces shape our local future?

Join us on September 23 for a day of thoughtful conversations exploring the connections between world events and life here at home.

🎟️ Register through the link in our bio.

A special thank you to our sponsors:





And guest speaker:

We're grateful for your support in bringing important global conversations to Vermont!

Get your ticket today: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-state-of-the-world-summit-celebrating-international-day-of-peace-tickets-1990572325410?aff=oddtdtcreator

09/09/2026

Build Your Global Network at the State of the World Summit
Looking to grow your professional network and connect with people working across international affairs, business, government, and global issues? Join the Vermont Council on World Affairs for the 2026 State of the World Summit on September 23 in Burlington. With high-profile speakers, engaging discussions, and dedicated networking opportunities, it’s a great chance for UVM students and international scholars to make connections, gain new perspectives, and explore future professional opportunities.
When: September 23rd, 2026
Where: Hula Lakeside
Time: 8:15 am to 2:30pm ** Breakfast refreshments and free lunch will be provided to ticket holders
Learn more & register → https://www.vcwa.org/peace-2025-1-1)

Hope to see you there , , and !

A special thank you to our sponsors:





And guest speaker:

We're grateful for your support in bringing important global conversations to Vermont!

09/09/2026

In a world where so much of our work happens through screens, meaningful opportunities to step outside of our day-to-day routines - to connect, exchange ideas, and learn alongside people from different industries and perspectives - can feel increasingly rare.

That’s exactly what the Global Leadership Program is designed to create.

This low-residency certificate program brings together a cohort of emerging and established leaders from across Vermont for an experience centered on connection, professional growth, and a deeper understanding of what it means to lead in an increasingly interconnected world.

Through facilitated sessions, conversations with experienced leaders, mentorship, and a powerful peer network, participants have the opportunity to expand not only how they think about leadership, but who they have alongside them as they grow.

If you’ve been looking for an opportunity to invest in yourself, expand your network, and become a more thoughtful and globally minded leader, we invite you to apply through the link in our bio.

09/07/2026

Meet our moderators!

We have some Incredible speakers lined up for the State of the World Summit. But what’s a great speaker without someone to make the introductions, ask engaging questions, manage audience questions, and keep the session moving smoothly. We’re so grateful to know that you’re all In capable hands.

Sarah Daluisio| Vice President & Community & Business Development at JPMorganChase

Jim Welch | Former Executive director of VTDigger and Co-founder of USA Today

Secure your ticket now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-state-of-the-world-summit-celebrating-international-day-of-peace-tickets-1990572325410?aff=oddtdtcreator