Passport to Possibility

Join Olympia World Affairs Council on Thursday, May 21st, for a reception featuring international-style small plates, a curated silent auction, and a compelling featured speaker with audience Q&A all in support of scholarships that help local students access life-changing study abroad opportunities.

This lively and inspiring evening is dedicated to expanding global opportunities for Thurston County students from The Evergreen State College, Saint Martin’s University, and South Puget Sound Community College.

The Olympia World Affairs Council welcomes Thomas White as keynote speaker for an evening of timely global insight. A retired senior Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), White spent more than 25 years working on humanitarian response, democratic governance, and economic recovery in some of the world’s most complex environments, including Gaza, Darfur, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Cambodia. As America’s global role is increasingly debated, and following USAID’s recent closure, White offers a rare insider’s perspective on how U.S. civilian engagement shapes global stability and what may lie ahead.

Event Highlights

530pm - Doors Open | International Food & Drink

530-620pm - Silent Auction | Unique items from around the World, travel experiences, cultural treasures & more

630pm - Speaker/Q&A | Tom White, retired Foreign Service Officer with USAID

Auction Item Highlights

Private Russian Dinner & Conversation | Starting Bid $250

Enjoy an intimate evening for four featuring a thoughtfully prepared Russian dinner and engaging conversation. Join Tom Rainey and Nina Carter for a lively discussion on Russia, Iran, China, and today’s global dynamics—all over delicious, authentic cuisine.

Sunset Sail & Salmon Dinner on Budd Inlet | Starting Bid $250

Enjoy an elegant four hour private cruise for four on the scenic waters of Budd Inlet. Hosted by Bob Butts, this refined summer experience includes a beautifully prepared salmon dinner, picturesque waterfront views, and a serene, leisurely atmosphere.

Seattle Mariners Game Experience | Starting Bid $350

Enjoy four tickets to a Seattle Mariners game, complete with a parking pass for a seamless and exciting ballpark experience. A perfect outing to take in Major League Baseball at T-Mobile Park with friends or family.

Plus, you’ll find local restaurant gift cards, tickets to Harlequin Productions, Washington Center for the Performing Arts & The Fifth Avenue Theatre as well as cultural items such as jewelry, paintings and more.