EVENTS
Speaker Series Schedule
The Olympia World Affairs Council's program year runs September through May.
Speakers include professors, economists, diplomats, historians, scientists, non-profit organization leaders, business executives, and public officials.
Our programs are free and open to the public, in-person and on Zoom!
*some special events may not be available on Zoom
Speaker Series Programs
September 2026 - May 2027
Friday, September 25 | 6pm | Evergreen
Special Event
The Evergreen State College Cal Anderson Memorial Lecture Series with OWAC Co-Host Presents: The Existential Toolkit for Climate Work
Join Sarah Jaquette Ray, PhD, professor and chair of the Environmental Studies Department at Cal Poly Humboldt for this public lecture. Distilling wisdom from across many fields and traditions, from Indigenous knowledge to neuroscience, Dr. Ray will offer an "existential toolkit" for the climate generation, and anybody who worries about what the future holds. This event is FREE and open to the public.
Enjoy light refreshments and take part in live Q&A after the talk.
Can't join in person? This event will be available for livestreaming.
Event time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 5:30pm.
Location: The Evergreen State College - COM Recital Hall, 2700 Evergreen Pkwy NW, Olympia 98502
Parking: Paid parking available on campus. For more information about campus parking, click here to be redirected to the Parking Services webpage.
Registration is required. When you register, you will get helpful day-of attendance information, our livestream link, and invitations to future Cal Anderson Memorial Lecture Series events!
Thursday, November 19 | 6:30pm | SPSCC Lacey
Can China Go Green? What Its Energy Transition Means for the World
China is leading the world in renewable energy while remaining its largest coal consumer and greenhouse gas emitter. How can both be true, and what does this energy paradox mean for the future of climate change and global power?
Join Darrin Magee, Institute for Energy Studies Director at WWU, to explore China’s energy ambitions and their global implications.
Friday, January 8 | 7:30pm | Washington Center
Special Event
Rick Steves – Travel as a Political Act
Rick Steves believes there's more to travel than sightseeing and great food. In his engaging multimedia presentation, Travel as a Political Act, he'll explore how stepping outside our comfort zones can foster empathy, deepen our understanding of other cultures, and reveal the interconnectedness of today's world. Drawing on decades of travel throughout Europe, Central America, Asia, and the Middle East, Rick will share how meaningful travel can broaden our perspectives and strengthen our engagement as global citizens. The evening will conclude with a brief audience Q&A.
Exclusive OWAC Member Benefit: OWAC has reserved a block of seats so members can enjoy the event together. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Join OWAC for access to member benefits like this one.
Thursday, January 21st | 6:30pm | Evergreen
Panel Discussion: Chemicals, Health & the Environment - What Comes Next?
Join Jim Puckett, Susan Wilburn (WHO consultant), and Laurie Valeriano for a panel discussion on the Global Framework of Chemicals.
Thursday, March 18 | 6:30pm | Saint Martin's
Who Owns the Ocean? The High Seas Treaty & the Future of Our Oceans
Join Miranda Wecker, environmental lawyer and former chair of the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission, for an informative Speaker Series Program.
Thursday, May 20