World Affairs Seminar Permanent Staff

Michael Carriere, PhD, Academic Dean

Dr. Carriere is an Associate Professor and Director of the University Scholars Honors Program with the Milwaukee School of Engineering. He has extensive experience in curriculum development, international affairs, politics of disaster, urban development, civics and international history.

Dr. Carriere brings a wealth of creative energy and enthusiasm, to his position. He has developed and is applying an innovative set of changes to advance the texture and scope of the World Affairs Seminar, including broadening the scope of break-out sessions and integrating service projects into the capstone process. His high level of experience in academics and international education adds considerable depth to WAS.

Thomas M. Plantenberg, MS, BA,CFRE, Executive Director

Tom Plantenberg assumed the position of Executive Director of the World Affairs Seminar in 2008. He has reorganized the Board of Directors and created a multi-national, high-profile Advisory Board. Tom Plantenberg is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE). He is accredited by the Association of Health Care Philanthropy, and a Fellow and Past President of the Wisconsin Hospital Public Relations and Marketing Society. He retired in 2007 from the U.S. Navy Reserve at the rank of Captain.

Stuart J. Schmidt, Program Administrator

Stuart Schmidt graduated in 2017 from Northland College with degrees in Sustainable Community Development and Sociology. He attended World Affairs Seminar as a high school delegate, and has since found passion in supporting youth empowerment through education. Stuart joins the WAS staff with experience in higher education, youth program development, fundraising and donor management, and skills in web development and photography. He has held several different roles with World Affairs Seminar, including as staff counselor, Senior Staff, and Web Developer. In his current role, he coordinates the registration process, manages delegate room assignments, coordinates meals, manages the website & social media, and provides a host of other services for staff, sponsors, and delegates.

Barb Eder, Registrar & Office Manager