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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260313T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260313T133000
DTSTAMP:20260416T005123
CREATED:20260128T151233Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T130017Z
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SUMMARY:Great Decisions Lunch and Learn: U.S. Foreign Policy
DESCRIPTION:  \nJoin us for informal Lunch & Learn sessions tied to the World Affairs Council’s Great Decisions global discussion series\, co-hosted with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and Museum. \n  \nEach session includes lunch\, a 30-minute Foreign Policy Association video on the week’s topic\, and a guided discussion led by World Affairs Council and Foundation staff. It’s a convenient daytime option for those who want to dive into world affairs but can’t attend evening programs. \n  \nFree to attend; registration required. Free parking at the Ford Museum. Discussions take place in the DeVos Learning Center within the Ford Museum. \n  \nWith thanks to the Foreign Policy Association for the development of their Great Decisions program\, America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum for their partnership. \nAs we approach America’s 250th anniversary in 2026\, this year’s series invites us to reflect on our nation’s global role—past\, present\, and future. Learn more about America250 initiatives at america250.org. \n  \nProgram Details \nFriday\, March 13: U.S. Foreign Policy \n  \nTrump’s return has marked a break from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership\, embracing an “America First” approach. This program explores the risks of isolation and diminished influence in relation to Trump 2.0 foreign policy. \nThis program is in supplement of the March 10 evening eventThe U.S. in a Changing Global Order with Ambassador (ret.) Michael McKinley with Ambassador (ret.) Michael McKinley\, who will be presenting “The U.S. In a Changing Global Order.”
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/great-decisions-lunch-and-learn-us-foreign-policy/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/lunchandlearn3313.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260317T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260317T191500
DTSTAMP:20260416T005123
CREATED:20260114T194233Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T150453Z
UID:10000083-1773770400-1773774900@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:POSTPONED: Nuclear Risk in a Changing World with Page Stoutland
DESCRIPTION:NOTE: THIS EVENT IS POSTPONED\, RESCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY\, MAY 12. \nWe welcome Page Stoutland\, former consultant\, NTI  \n  \nThe risk of nuclear weapon use is widely viewed as higher today than at any point since the Cold War. Long-standing security alliances appear to be weakening\, prompting additional states to consider developing their own nuclear capabilities. Weapons-usable nuclear materials remain in many countries\, presenting proliferation and security risks. Emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence and increasingly digital command-and-control systems—are being integrated into nuclear systems\, introducing new vulnerabilities including cyber threats and system manipulation. These converging pressures raise a critical question: are we approaching a “perfect storm” that increases the likelihood of catastrophic nuclear weapons use? \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center \n  \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/nuclear-risk-in-a-changing-world-with-page-stoutland/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PageStoutland.jpeg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260324T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260324T191500
DTSTAMP:20260416T005123
CREATED:20260316T151637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T173751Z
UID:10000090-1774375200-1774379700@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:From West Michigan to the World: The Global Economy at Home with Randy Thelen and Bradley T. French
DESCRIPTION:We welcome Randy Thelen\, President & CEO of The Right Place and Bradley T. French\, Member and Chief Strategy Officer\, Bodman PLC. \n  \n  \nFrom manufacturing exports and international investment to supply chains and trade policy\, global forces play a powerful role in shaping regional economic futures. How do the current global economic trends affect our current and future prosperity in West Michigan? In this conversation\, Randy Thelen\, President & CEO of The Right Place\, and Bradley T. French\, Member and Chief Strategy Officer at Bodman PLC\, explore the relationship between international markets and local opportunities. Drawing on their work with companies expanding and investing in the region\, they will discuss how global economic trends influence job creation\, innovation\, and long-term prosperity for businesses and residents alike. Join us for an engaging discussion on why West Michigan’s place in the global economy matters—and how a vibrant regional economy can benefit the entire community. \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center \n  \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/from-west-michigan-to-the-world-the-global-economy-at-home-with-randy-thelen-and-bradley-t-french/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SIX_95A5F3EA-143A-4D0C-A243-5A694041B457.jpeg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260325T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260325T200000
DTSTAMP:20260416T005123
CREATED:20260227T155850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T130505Z
UID:10000088-1774461600-1774468800@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:A Taste of Munich - March Global Mixer
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our next Global Mixer\, ‘A Taste of Munich’ at the Küsterer Brauhaus on Wednesday\, March 25 at 6pm.  Guests will enjoy a selection of German charcuterie skewers\, Kraut Knödel (balls) with dressing\, Pretzel Bites with Bierkäse (cheese) and three 5oz Bier tastings with a little history presentation and tour.  The Küsterer Brauhaus is a Bavarian-style beer hall offering a taste of Bavaria with a local twist.  Tickets are $37 per person and registration is required by March 20.  Street parking on Bridge Street.
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/a-taste-of-munich-march-global-mixer/
LOCATION:Küsterer Brauhaus\, 642 Bridge St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/munichimg.jpeg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260407T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260407T134500
DTSTAMP:20260416T005123
CREATED:20260209T170601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T163223Z
UID:10000087-1775563200-1775569500@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:Vandenberg Prize with General (ret.) H. R. McMaster
DESCRIPTION:  \nVandenberg Prize with General (ret.) H.R. McMaster \nApril 7 @ 12:00-1:45 P.M. \nHuizenga Grand Room @ the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. \nNetworking from 11:30-Noon\, with program beginning at Noon. \nVandenberg Award Recipient: \nGeneral (ret.) H. R. McMaster \n  \nHillman/Orr Award Recipient: \nTo be announced \n  \nThe World Affairs Council of Western Michigan (WACWM) announces the recipient of its sixth Vandenberg Prize—which goes to a national or international leader who has been influential in developing global understanding and collaboration on the world stage.  The first six prizes were awarded to Ambassador (ret.) Jon M. Huntsman\, Jr. (2020); General (ret.) James N. Mattis (2021);  Ambassador (ret.) Marie Yovanovitch (2022); U.N. World Food Programme Director David M. Beasley (2023); Ambassador Bridget Brink (2024); and Ambassador Nicholas Burns (2025). \n  \nThe recipient of the 2026  Vandenberg Prize is General (ret.) H. R. McMaster. \n  \nH. R. McMaster is the Fouad and Michelle Ajami Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution\, Stanford University.  He is also the Bernard and Susan Liautaud Fellow at the Freeman Spogli Institute and lecturer at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business.  He was the 26th assistant to the president for National Security Affairs. Upon graduation from the United States Military Academy in 1984\, McMaster served as a commissioned officer in the United States Army for 34 years before retiring as a Lieutenant General in June 2018.  \n  \nFrom 2014 to 2017 McMaster designed the future army as the director of the Army Capabilities Integration Center and the deputy commanding general of the US Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC). As commanding general of the Maneuver Center of Excellence at Fort Benning\, he oversaw all training and education for the army’s infantry\, armor\, and cavalry force. His has extensive experience leading soldiers and organizations in wartime including Commander\, Combined Joint Inter-Agency Task Force—Shafafiyat in Kabul\, Afghanistan from 2010 to 2012; Commander\, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment in Iraq from 2005 to 2006; and Commander\, Eagle Troop\, 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment in Operation Desert Storm from 1990 to 1991. McMaster also served overseas as advisor to the most senior commanders in the Middle East\, Iraq\, and Afghanistan.  \n  \nMcMaster holds a PhD in military history from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  He was an assistant professor of history at the United States Military Academy from 1994 to 1996.  He is author of Battlegrounds: The Fight to Defend the Free World and the award-winning Dereliction of Duty: Lyndon Johnson\, Robert McNamara\, the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Lies that Led to Vietnam.  He was a contributing editor for Survival: Global Politics and Strategy from 2010 to 2017.    \n  \nThanks to longtime World Affairs Council corporate supporters Amway and Bank of America for sponsoring this event. \n  \nHe will receive the Vandenberg Prize on Tuesday\, April 7th\, from 12:00-1:45\, at the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park (Huizenga Grand Room). The Vandenberg Prize is named after Michigan Senator Arthur Vandenberg (1881-1951) who was the inspiration for founding the Council in 1949 by Grand Rapids attorney (and later Federal Judge) Douglas Hillman and businessman Edgar Orr. \n  \nIn addition\, the Council will present the annual Hillman-Orr Award to a West Michigan individual or institution that mirrors the intent of the Council’s founding leaders to bring global awareness and international understanding to the West Michigan community. \n  \nHillman and Orr were inspired by the life and work of Senator Vandenberg\, an isolationist who became a strong advocate of internationalism in the wake of World War II. Vandenberg forged bipartisan support for the Marshall Plan and NATO and was appointed one of the first U.S. delegates to the brand-new United Nations. Senator Vandenberg has always been considered the “patron saint” of the Council. \n  \nNote on Parking \nThe event will take place at the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Guest parking is free and plentiful next to the visitor’s entrance. \n  \nTickets \nTickets available below. Individual tickets cost $175 and sponsored tables of 8 cost $2\,500. \n 
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/vandenburg-prize-with-general-ret-h-r-mcmaster/
LOCATION:Frederik Meijer Gardens\, 1000 E Beltline Ave NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49425\, United States
CATEGORIES:Vandenburg Prize
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/SIX_38ECCA81-7EC6-454E-A7A3-1358B79C4F90.jpeg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260505T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260505T133000
DTSTAMP:20260416T005123
CREATED:20260309T140807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T161507Z
UID:10000089-1777982400-1777987800@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:Consul Luncheon featuring Hajime “Jimmy” Kishimori\, Consul-General of the Consulate-General of Japan in Detroit
DESCRIPTION:Please join us for a dialogue with Hajime “Jimmy” Kishimori\, Consul-General of the Consulate-General of Japan in Detroit. \n  \nConsul-General Hajime “Jimmy” Kishimori is the Consul-General of the Consulate General of Japan in Detroit\, whose main mission is to protect and support Japanese expatiates and companies in the states of Michigan and Ohio. He is a specialist of UN issues\, having spent nearly 15 years in Geneva\, Tokyo for UNHCR and New York. \n  \nConsul-General Kishimori\, born in Hiroshima in 1964\, began his career with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1987\, after graduating the University of Tokyo. Since then\, he received his MA at SAIS (School of Advanced International Studies\, John’s Hopkins University); worked for the Embassy of Japan in the U.S.\, Southeast Asia Division and Legal Division in the HQs; then served at the Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva from 1999 to 2002 when he assisted then  UN High Commissioner for Refugees\, Madam Sadako Ogata. That changed his career as he quit the Japanese Foreign Service in July 2005 after working for the Embassy of Japan in Thailand from 2002 to 2005. He was appointed as Deputy Representative of UNHCR\, working for then UN High Commissioner for Refugees\, Mr. Antonio Guterres who is now UN Secretary General. \n  \nMr. Kishimori came back to the Japanese Foreign Service in July 2009\, serving at the Embassy of Japan in Egypt as Director for Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC) till December 2010. The East Japan Earthquake hit the Tohoku area on 11 March after which he was engaged with strategic communication at the HQs in Tokyo including reputational damage control of the Fukushima nuclear accident and the establishment of JAPAN HOUSE in LA\, London and Sao Paulo. \n  \nHe was assigned in the UN again in August 2015 as Counselor at the Permanent Mission to the UN in New York from 2015 to 2019\, then seconded to UNDP in New York as Senior Advisor & Director for the Japan Unit from 2019 to 2022. \n  \nHe was transferred to San Francisco in March 2022 as Deputy Consul General and assumed the current post of Consul General of Japan in Detroit in December 2024. \n  \nThis event is part of Michigan World Trade Week\, a celebration of international trade and business growth for Michigan. \nIn addition to our keynote speaker\, members of the Consular Corps of Michigan will be in attendance. \nNetworking from 11:30-12:00\, with lunch and program starting promptly at noon. \nSpecial thanks to Ferris State University. \n 
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/consul-luncheon-featuring-hajime-jimmy-kishimori-consul-general-of-the-consulate-general-of-japan-in-detroit/
LOCATION:Frederik Meijer Gardens\, 1000 E Beltline Ave NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49425\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SIX_0D47CB9B-B22E-4FF4-9B6A-41A357AB1A23.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260512T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260512T191500
DTSTAMP:20260416T005123
CREATED:20260317T150234Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T150234Z
UID:10000091-1778608800-1778613300@worldmichigan.org
SUMMARY:Nuclear Risk in a Changing World with Page Stoutland
DESCRIPTION:We welcome Page Stoutland\, former consultant\, NTI  \n  \nThe risk of nuclear weapon use is widely viewed as higher today than at any point since the Cold War. Long-standing security alliances appear to be weakening\, prompting additional states to consider developing their own nuclear capabilities. Weapons-usable nuclear materials remain in many countries\, presenting proliferation and security risks. Emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence and increasingly digital command-and-control systems—are being integrated into nuclear systems\, introducing new vulnerabilities including cyber threats and system manipulation. These converging pressures raise a critical question: are we approaching a “perfect storm” that increases the likelihood of catastrophic nuclear weapons use? \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center \n  \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/nuclear-risk-in-a-changing-world-with-page-stoutland-2/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PageStoutland.jpeg
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