World Affairs Council of Kentucky and Southern Indiana

Few voices have followed the rise of global technology markets as closely as Rebecca Fannin.

A journalist, author, commentator, and founder of Silicon Dragon Ventures, Fannin has spent decades covering venture capital, entrepreneurship, emerging industries, and the growth of China’s technology sector. At The AI Race: America, China, and the Future of Innovation, she will bring a global perspective to one of today’s most urgent conversations: how artificial intelligence is reshaping economic power, business, and innovation.

📅 July 1, 2026
🕔 5:30pm - Reception, 6:00pm - Program
📍 The Filson Historical Society

👉 Register here: https://www.worldkentucky.org/upcomingevents/the-ai-race-america-china-and-the-future-of-innovation

Please note: The World Affairs Council of Kentucky & Southern Indiana is a nonpartisan nonprofit; views expressed in our programs are those of the speakers and not the Council, its staff, board, or sponsors.

Explore the wild beauty of the Galápagos from the water. 🛶✨

As part of our Quito & Galápagos Signature Destination, travelers will head to Tortuga Bay for a kayaking excursion through peaceful mangroves and pristine coastal waters. Along the way, keep an eye out for marine iguanas, blue-footed bo***es, sea turtles, and other incredible wildlife found only in this unique part of the world.

This journey blends culture, nature, history, and adventure — from Quito’s historic center to the volcanic landscapes and wildlife of the Galápagos.

Join us for an unforgettable travel experience through Quito and the Galápagos Islands! Register today: https://www.worldkentucky.org/upcomingevents/signature-destinations-quito-galapagos

The world came to Kentucky last month through three impactful International Visitor Leadership Programs.

Across three delegations, international leaders connected with local organizations, public institutions, cultural sites, and industry experts to exchange ideas on nonprofit sustainability, public safety, critical minerals, energy innovation, and community engagement.

These visits are more than professional meetings. They are opportunities to build global relationships, share local expertise, and showcase the people, institutions, and hospitality that make Kentucky a meaningful destination for citizen diplomacy.

We are grateful to the many community partners who helped welcome these visitors and make each exchange possible.

BREAKING AI NEWS! The AI race is moving faster than ever, and the geopolitical stakes are higher than they’ve been in a decade. Why is the U.S. hitting “pause” on major tech restrictions? We’re diving into the strategy, the security concerns, and the global impact at our upcoming event with Rebecca Fannin and Lisa Benson. Don't miss this chance to understand the future of tech.

📅 July 1, 2026
🕔 5:30pm - Reception, 6:00pm - Program
📍 The Filson Historical Society

👉 Register here: https://www.worldkentucky.org/upcomingevents/the-ai-race-america-china-and-the-future-of-innovation

Please note: The World Affairs Council of Kentucky & Southern Indiana is a nonpartisan nonprofit; views expressed in our programs are those of the speakers and not the Council, its staff, board, or sponsors.

As artificial intelligence reshapes the global economy, the race for technological leadership is becoming one of the defining issues of our time.

Join the World Affairs Council of Kentucky and Southern Indiana for The AI Race: America, China, and the Future of Innovation, featuring internationally recognized journalist, author, and global technology expert Rebecca Fannin. This timely conversation will explore how AI is transforming industries, how China’s technology sector is rising, and what these shifts mean for American competitiveness, businesses, workers, and communities like Louisville.

📅 July 1, 2026
🕔 5:30pm - Reception, 6:00pm - Program
📍 The Filson Historical Society

👉 Register here: https://www.worldkentucky.org/upcomingevents/the-ai-race-america-china-and-the-future-of-innovation

Please note: The World Affairs Council of Kentucky & Southern Indiana is a nonpartisan nonprofit; views expressed in our programs are those of the speakers and not the Council, its staff, board, or sponsors.

Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Happy Memorial Day from the WAC Team!

Where is travel headed next? ✈️🌍

Join us for our Travel Trends Mixer with Sabeen Nasim for a conversation on the latest shifts shaping global travel—from emerging destinations and changing traveler interests to what’s ahead for meaningful international experiences. Plus, get an inside look at upcoming travel opportunities and connect with fellow globally minded travelers.

- Free to attend
- Community networking + travel insights
- Presented by Sabeen Nasim, founder of Travel with Sabeen

👉 Register now: https://worldaffairscouncilofkentucky-bloom.kindful.com/e/travel-program-information-session

TOMORROW - As space becomes a new arena for innovation and competition, who helps set the rules? Join Kris Kimel for a conversation on the responsibilities, decisions, and global partnerships shaping the future of space exploration beyond Artemis II.

📅 May 19, 2026
🕔 5:30 PM Reception | 6 PM Program
📍 Logan Street Market

👉 Register here: https://www.worldkentucky.org/upcomingevents/gah-beyond-artemis-whats-next-for-humanity-in-space