The Library is hosting a Great Decisions 2024 Discussion Series this Spring on Wednesdays from March 6 through May 8 at 5:00 PM. NOTE: there are no sessions on March 13 and April 24.

The Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. Groups throughout the U. S. read the Great Decisions Briefing Book, watch the DVD, and meet to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. Sessions will be moderated either by Philip Drouin (retired Foreign Service Officer) or a guest moderator (see below).

This year's topics include:
Mideast realignment
Climate technology (guest moderated by Linda Dylla)
Science across borders (guest moderated by Fred Dylla)
U.S.-China trade rivalry
NATO’s future
Understanding Indonesia
High Seas treaty
Pandemic preparedness (guest moderated by Nancy Powell)

More information about each topic may be found here.

Philip Drouin was a Foreign Service Officer at the U.S. State Department, 1984 to 2012, with tours in Germany, Liberia, Namibia, Cote d’Ivoire, Botswana, Nigeria, and in Washington.  He reported on the end of Apartheid, conflict and want from the Horn to West Africa, the scourge of AIDS, and democratization/governance movements across Africa.  Phil led election observations and advanced U.S.-Africa economic and security partnerships.  Post-retirement, he aided USAU in Addis Ababa and returned to Monrovia.  Degrees encompass a BA in History/Education from UConn, International Affairs MA from AU, MS in National Security Strategy from the National War College (last two in DC).  In addition to his intensive tours in Africa, Phil is most proud of participating in the NAFTA negotiations with Canada and Mexico, helping turn the deadly tide of HIV/AIDS among Africans, and mentoring new U.S. diplomats for their foreign assignments.  He also loves history, music, travel, and enjoys discussing “Foreign Policy” via Great Decisions. 

Registration is required.