Our Mission
Our mission is to build strong international leaders and foster peace and understanding among participants, staff and speakers in an environment of open dialogue where innovative, rigorous academics are offered through programs that focus on global issues.
Through this one-week global issues summer camp, our vision is to enrich high school students with better understanding of world problems 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
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 since 2009, WAS provides a college-like experience, including use of the residence halls and campus amenities.
Throughout the week students have time for recreational activities. The seminar brings greater awareness and understanding of the world they will inherit. Critical thinking, negotiation skills and the process of learning about new friends from around the world are all part of this incredible experience.
Our Story
The World Affairs Seminar (WAS) was founded in 1977 by Professors Dr. Gaylon Greenhill and Dr. Dale Brock of UW-Whitewater. Dr. Brock became the first WAS General Manager. His vision and enthusiasm for the Program were central to its success. He was the embodiment of the dream he had for our world, always ready to learn something new and spend hours listening to the participants, staff and speakers. He believed that we could advance the cause of peace in this world by gathering together to learn from one another. It is his tireless devotion that continues to inspire and motivate all who work as Seminar Staff today.
Throughout the last 45 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. From our early days at UW-Whitewater, to the present at Carroll University, the World Affairs Seminar has remain steadfast in teaching Peace Through Understanding.
Accreditation
The Wisconsin World Affairs Council, Inc. dba World Affairs Seminar is a 501(c)3 tax exempt educational organization, certified by the State of Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions as a Charitable Organization.
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