Past Council Events
P.W. Singer | Ghost Fleet: A Novel of the Next World War
Smashing together the technothriller and nonfiction genres, Singer (and co-author August Cole) imagine how World War III might play out. In an innovative twist they reveal (with the aid of 400 endnotes) how every bit of trend and technology— no matter how sci-fi it may seem — are stunningly real. Read More ››
Discussion Group - Infrastructure
Infrastructure maintenance and construction is often suggested as a cure for economic woes in countries around the world. How should governments balance infrastructure investment with more immediate concerns? How can this be done equitably? Join the Young Professionals this week for discussion. Read More ››
YP C.U.L.T. - FIFA Women's World Cup
Join the Young Professionals and fellow soccer fans for this month’s CULT event cheering on the U.S. Women’s team as they take on Germany in the semifinals of the 2015 FIFA World Cup. Read More ››
From Field to Fork: Food Ethics for Everyone
Modern debates about food are complex issues. Will the growing local and organic food movements restore food ethics to our diets? Paul Thompson (former adviser with the United Nations’ Food and Agricultural Organization) says it’s a start, but not enough. Read More ››
Robert D. Putnam | Our Kids: The American Dream in Crisis
Robert Putnam, author of Bowling Alone, delves into a far-reaching examination of the root causes of the opportunity gap for our nation's children and what might be done about this crisis Read More ››
Headscarves and Hymens: Why the Middle East Needs a Sexual Revolution
Egyptian-American journalist Mona Eltahawy (one of our 2013 International Speaker Series' most riveting presenters) returns to Portland with her new manifesto on misogyny in the Arab world - both a plea for outrage and a call to action Read More ››
Russia & the Post-Soviet States: Culture, Continuity & Crisis
Join us May 16th for a day-long conference for educators and the community about the Post-Soviet region. Learn about valuable classroom tools and resources, gain rich perspectives from leading thinkers and local experts, and enjoy a cultural immersion around contemporary issues in Russia and the former Soviet States. Read More ››
Chen Yongsong: Sustainable Development and Public Participation in China
Please bring your lunch and join Chen Yongsong, director of the Yunnan Green Education Center, to learn about how one grassroots organization in China is promoting awareness of two values that receive little Chinese attention: sustainable development and public participation. Read More ››