Strengthening Our Global Network at the 2025 WACA Leadership Conference in Santa Fe
In June, I had the privilege of attending the 2025 Council Leadership Meeting of the World Affairs Councils of America (WACA), held in the vibrant and culturally rich city of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Alongside our Vice President, Melissa McDonald, we joined leaders from councils across the country to explore timely topics, exchange ideas, and strengthen the collaborative spirit that defines our national network.
The conference, hosted by the Santa Fe Council on International Relations, was a powerful reminder of the strength and diversity of the WACA network. This year’s agenda featured an impressive array of speakers and sessions focused on innovation in global education, civic engagement, foreign policy, and council sustainability. From discussions on U.S.–Mexico relations to strategies for engaging younger audiences in international affairs, the convening provided valuable insights that we are excited to bring back to Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
One of the highlights of the conference was the opportunity to connect with other Council leaders who are navigating similar challenges and opportunities in their own communities. Whether discussing ideas for programming, exploring ways to build meaningful partnerships, or sharing lessons learned from the past year, the energy and exchange were truly inspiring.
As a Council that has proudly served our region for more than 100 years, it is essential that we stay plugged into this national network. WACA not only connects us to a broader movement promoting global awareness and understanding, but also equips us with tools, resources, and relationships that help us grow and innovate locally.
We returned home from Santa Fe energized and full of new ideas—many of which will inform our work as we continue to expand our impact through global education programs, professional exchanges, and public diplomacy initiatives. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to represent our region on this national stage and to work alongside so many committed colleagues who share in our mission of connecting the world to our community.
We’re also thrilled to announce that our Council will host the 2026 WACA Council Leadership Meeting right here in Cincinnati! We can’t wait to welcome our peers from across the country to experience the global spirit of our region—stay tuned for more details.
Thank you to the World Affairs Councils of America and the Santa Fe Council for hosting an exceptional conference. We look forward to the year ahead and to building even stronger bridges between Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, and the world.
To learn more about the national network, visit World Affairs Councils of America.
