About Us

Our Mission

Our mission is to build strong international leaders, foster productive civic discussion, and create peace and understanding among participants, staff, and speakers. WAS is an environment of open dialogue where innovative, rigorous academics are offered through programs that focus on global issues.

Rooted in hands-on learning and action, this summer camp enriches teens with an understanding of complex global topics through:

  • Exposure to current issues from diverse perspectives
  • Discussion and problem-solving
  • Interactions with youth from other countries
  • Opportunities to develop solutions
  • Platforms from which to present and defend ideas
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Who & What We Are

The World Affairs Seminar (WAS) is a unique interactive educational program for high school students. Our week-long experience hosts students from around the world with the primary goal of engaging in collaborative discussion and solution making on global issues. WAS places an emphasis on promoting better understanding of causes of international conflict, with participants sharing ideas and viewpoints alongside their peers and world renowned experts. 

In small and large group format, students put their new knowledge to use. Through public policy simulations, active interviews and discussions, and a culminating capstone project, students are offered a rigorous academic program designed to foster Peace Through Understanding. Hosted at Carroll University in Waukesha, WI, the World Affairs Seminar provides a college-like experience, including staying in the residence halls and use of other campus amenities. 

Throughout the seminar the “delegates” brings greater awareness and understanding of the world they will inherit. Critical thinking, negotiation skills, and learning about other cultures through new friends from around the world are all part of this incredible experience.

Each day delegates also choose from various unstructured recreational activities during free time, such as athletics, a talent show, trivia, a dance, game nights, and simply hanging out with others they meet from around the world!

Our Story

The World Affairs Seminar (WAS) was founded in 1977 by professors Dr. Gaylon Greenhill and Dr. Dale Brock at UW-Whitewater. Dr. Brock became the seminars first General Manager and his vision and enthusiasm for the program were central to its success. He was always ready to learn something new and spent hours engaging with the participants and speakers. He believed that we could advance the cause of peace in the world by gathering together to learn from one another. It is his tireless devotion that continues to inspire and motivate all staff, volunteers, and board members that plan the seminar to this today.

Throughout the last 50 years, the World Affairs Seminar has covered timely and significant topics, including human rights, world hunger, globalization, nuclear arms control, international economics, environmental issues, global health, security, and global leadership, all with an emphasis on ways students can make a difference now and in the future.

Since our creation, World Affairs Seminar has welcomed over 30,000 international students to Wisconsin, representing over 20 countries. Since 1977, the World Affairs Seminar has remain steadfast in teaching Peace Through Understanding.