World Affairs Council Houston – Page 3 – Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

An Evening with Malcolm Gladwell: Insights on Change and Inequality

Saara Maknojia

To end another busy day, Chrissy Biello, Michelle Cardenas, Emely Garcia, Michelle Moya, and I ventured to Houston for yet another fabulous event hosted by the World Affairs Council (WAC) of Greater Houston. This event featured the renowned author Malcolm Gladwell, who captivated the audience with a discussion of his new book, Revenge of the Tipping Point.

Seated alongside Ronan O’Malley, Chief Programs Officer for WAC, Gladwell began by revisiting his groundbreaking book The Tipping Point, which delves into the social dynamics that drive large-scale cultural shifts. The sequel, he explained, explores the unintended consequences of these shifts in modern society…

During the discussion, Ronan O’Malley prompted Gladwell to share his views on higher education and its challenges. Gladwell critiqued the admissions systems of prestigious institutions like Harvard University, highlighting the inequities faced by merit-based students compared to legacy applicants. He also touched on the 2019 admissions scandal, where families falsified their children’s applications, often robbing low-income students of their rightful opportunities. Gladwell’s observations shed light on how these systemic issues contribute to larger societal inequalities.

The wide-ranging conversation also emphasized the idea of “tipping points,” moments when seemingly small events trigger substantial societal change. Gladwell noted how media coverage of scandals often accelerates these tipping points, creating ripple effects that transform public awareness and behaviors. His ability to weave research with engaging narratives left the audience with much to reflect on.

Our group especially appreciated Gladwell’s humorous anecdotes and witty remarks, which drew loud laughter and applause from the audience. Events like these are not only educational but also incredibly enjoyable for students like us. The World Affairs Council of Greater Houston consistently provides opportunities to learn from brilliant minds, expand our perspectives, and engage with global issues. We’re already looking forward to the next WAC event!

‘Midnight in Moscow’ with Ambassador John Sullivan

by Olivia Discon

Classes may have started last week, but for LEAP students, the learning never stops! After a full day packed with classes and work, Isaac Mokrane, Caitlin Lovella Nortonen, Professor Yawn, Stephanie, and I were still eager to expand our knowledge. So, we headed to the Bush School of Public Service to hear from the distinguished John J. Sullivan.

The event was introduced by Andrew S. Natsios, Director of the Scowcroft Institute of International Affairs, and Alexandra Chinchilla, Assistant Professor. With such esteemed hosts, we knew we were in for a compelling discussion.

Sullivan, who described himself as a “Russo-phile,” began his talk by acknowledging the unfortunate state of U.S.-Russia relations in 2024, which he aptly described as being at a “low ebb.” Despite his deep admiration for Russian culture and history, Sullivan didn’t shy away from addressing the harsh realities of the current geopolitical climate.

One of the most intriguing points Sullivan made was about the constitutional limitations that Russia faces in the Ukraine war. He explained that it is unconstitutional for Russia to separate its territory, thereby prohibiting them from surrendering.

This legal nuance added a layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict that I found particularly fascinating.

When asked about the possibility of Russia surrendering or the potential outcome of the war, Sullivan provided an answer that any good attorney would: “it depends.” It was weirdly reassuring that the uncertain and fluid nature of international law and diplomacy is known across the board.

Sullivan also addressed the pressing question of whether we are on the brink of World War III. He urged the audience to draw parallels between the current geopolitical climate and the interwar years, a comparison that was both incredibly interesting and sobering.

Caitlin, Isaac, and I, who share a strong interest in pursuing law, found his insights particularly valuable. Sullivan covered the complexities of the Ukraine war, He discussed the potential for World War III, drawing comparisons between Hitler, Stalin and Putin, and offering his thoughts on what it would take to bring the conflict to an end. His statement that “nothing is easy with the Russians” resonated with us, emphasizing the intricate and often frustrating nature of diplomacy.

The experience was both educational and thought-provoking. Hearing from someone who has been at the forefront of U.S. foreign policy gave us a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by diplomats and policymakers. We were especially grateful to have been the first to shake hands with and get our books signed by Ambassador Sullivan on his first leg of his book circuit!

His memoir, Midnight in Moscow, will be a great way to expand on the invigorating stories from the evening.

Culinary Passport: France’s Flavors and Cultural Connections

The LEAP Ambassadors recently took part in a cultural and culinary journey to France at the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston’s latest Culinary Passport event. Held at Alliance Française de Houston, which has proudly served the region for more than 100 years, the event featured an array of French delicacies including ham and cheese croissants, charcuterie boards, crepes, and a delightful assortment of fruits and macarons.

The event kicked off with an introduction by Jahan Jafarpour, leading into the evening’s highlight: a conversation with Valérie Baraban, Consul General of France in Houston.

With a background in NATO and France’s counterterrorism task force, Baraban’s path to Texas was unexpected. After years of diplomatic work, she sought a new challenge and chose Texas, despite knowing little about the state. She admitted that the media had shaped her perception of Texas, but after taking a leap of faith, she discovered that Texas — and especially Houston — had won her over with its diversity, energy, and warmth.

Baraban emphasized the surprising depth of France’s connections to Texas. For instance, two French brothers founded Schlumberger, a major oil and gas company that operates in Houston and across the United States. This highlights the longstanding economic ties between the two regions. Additionally, she touched on France’s forward-thinking initiatives in space exploration and hinted at Houston’s potential role in helping France develop new ways to approach space research.

A fun historical tidbit Baraban shared was that France was the first country to recognize Texas as an independent nation. In fact, there’s a landmark in Paris that reads, “Here was the former embassy of the Republic of Texas,” a reminder of the deep diplomatic ties between the two (see also: French Legation).

The evening also touched on the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Baraban spoke about how global events like the Olympics foster unity and how they align with the Culinary Passport series’ mission to bring people together through food and cultural exchange.

For the LEAP Ambassadors, the evening was a delightful blend of French flavors and fascinating insights into the ties between France and Texas, spanning from oil and space to shared history and diplomacy. We enjoyed interacting with new friends and engaging with the World Affairs Council staff, making for a fun and memorable night.

Culinary Passport: Unveiling the Tastes of Indonesia

Michelle Cardenas

Last week, we had the privilege to attend an event hosted by the World Affairs Council as part of their Culinary Passport Series. This time, our gastronomic adventure took us to the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Houston.

This event was especially fitting as it coincided with Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage and contributions of the AAPI community.

The event began with the Consulate General, Andre Omer Siregar, who graced us with his welcoming remarks, sharing his pride in Indonesia’s rich cultural diversity and dynamic growth. He expressed his excitement to be among a group of people eager to learn more about his home country.

The main presentation offered us an overview of Indonesia and highlighted some of its best qualities. We learned about Indonesia’s current Democratic style of government and how it became home to a vibrant population and a robust economy. The Economic Affairs team, represented by Ita A. Puspitasari and Aswidya Indririsk, highlighted Indonesia’s economic innovations and the growing trade relationship with the United States. Their enthusiasm and pride in their country were evident, and it was inspiring to hear about the strides Indonesia is making on the global stage.

A part of the presentation I found particularly interesting was the mention of Indonesia’s representation in international media, with films such as “Cigarette Girl” on Netflix showcasing Indonesian culture and storytelling. Cultural representation matters, and it is clear that this is a source of immense pride for Indonesians and an exciting development for global audiences.

As the program drew to a close, we were introduced to an array of traditional Indonesian dishes.

The Consulate staff explained that hosting and preparing lavish banquets is an integral part of Indonesian culture, especially on special occasions. We were presented with a buffet-style dinner laid out for us, featuring a mouthwatering selection of dishes such as Nasi Goreng, Rendang, Sate Ayam, Gado-Gado, and Lontong.

Each dish was a testament to Indonesia’s rich culinary heritage, bursting with savory flavors and spices.

For many of us, this was our first encounter with Indonesian cuisine, and it was an experience we won’t soon forget.

Sampling these dishes was not just about tasting new flavors but also about gaining a deeper appreciation for the culture and traditions of Indonesia. Events like this enrich our understanding of the diverse world we live in and prepare us for future travels and cultural explorations.

We left with full stomachs and a newfound appreciation for the hospitality and warmth that Indonesian culture embodies. It was a perfect celebration of AAPI Month, fostering cultural exchange and culinary delight.

World Affairs Council: Passport to Korean Culture

by Olivia Discon

The LEAP Ambassadors recently stamped their first country in the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston’s Global Young Professionals ‘Culinary Passport’ series, starting with Argentina. This time, we made our way ‘around the globe’ to experience Korean culture at the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Houston.

The Three Post Oak Central Office Building, where the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea conducts business, was a spacious and elevated venue. In fact, the building itself is LEED Gold certified!

We had the pleasure of trying various Korean street food items, such as Korean Bao, Tteokbokki, pan fried dumplings, and Korean fried chicken. This was a delicious way to immerse ourselves into the culture we would be exploring in tonight’s lecture.

The Consul General of Korea, Young-Ho Jung, started the night off by providing some opening remarks. Consul General Young-Ho Jung took the opportunity to highlight Korea’s remarkable success and encouraged us to consider visiting the country on our own someday. This honor was not lost on us, and truly set the scene for an immersion into learning more about Korea’s cultural impact worldwide.

Following his remarks, Jinaeng Choi, a professor at the University of Houston, took the podium to deliver a lecture titled “Mobilities in and of Korean Literature and Media: Rethinking Korean Cultural Product’s Global Rise.” Choi’s lecture provided fascinating insights into the global impact of Korean literature and media, highlighting the ways in which Korean cultural products have transcended borders and captured the attention of audiences worldwide.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Choi’s lecture was her discussion of the intersection between Korean and Latin American literature. She broke down immigration patterns and found that many Koreans migrate to Latin America, leading to a rich exchange of cultures and literary traditions between the two regions. It was here that she provided many instances of this intersection of cultures, such as literary magazines, short stores and poetry, and novels. Professor Choi even brought a personal copy of one of these books, which was translated in both Korean and Spanish. Depending on which way the book was flipped, you could choose which language to read!

Learning opportunities such as these emphasize the depth and complexity of cultural exchange. In the heart of one of the most diverse cities in America, this experience exposed us to new facets of the disciplines, such as literature, film, and music, that we have all enjoyed in various capacities.

The evening was a rich and immersive experience, offering us a taste of Korean culture through its food, art, and intellectual discourse. We left feeling inspired and eager to continue our exploration of the diverse cultures that enrich our global community.

Covering the Ukraine War with Yaroslav Trofimov

By Olivia Discon

In our first week back in class, we felt compelled to start the Spring semester off with our favorite way to learn about the state of global politics, the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston. This evening, we had the pleasure of hearing from Yaroslov Trofimov, a chief foreign affairs correspondent at the Wall Street Journal. Born in Ukraine, Trofimov not only has a seasoned perspective as a journalist, but a personal understanding as a Ukrainian.

Moderated by Ronan O’Malley, the discussion began with this complex duality of Trofimov’s insights on the Ukraine War. As a correspondent on world affairs, Trofimov’s position requires an objective, multifaceted perspective when educating the public. As a Ukrainian, however, he must consider how his family and culture is to survive the present.

The Ukraine War has been a hot-button topic in United States’ politics, mostly concerning whether the U.S. should financially support Ukraine in their efforts to fight off Russia or not. Trofimov’s key argument, shared by the Americans who support Ukraine in their efforts against the Putin regime, is that this war does not exist alone, but is in fact completely representative of democracy everywhere. He closed his response with a quote that deeply resonated with us: “We are fighting this war so you (Americans) don’t have to”.

Though this war has resulted in numerous casualties, Ukrainians still hold onto a fierce hope that they will persist against what appears to be insurmountable odds. “Russia’s propaganda is stronger than Russia’s army”, Trofimov remarked.

While Jessica has just started her last semester at Sam Houston, this was her first time at the Junior League of Houston. This building’s interior design is reminiscent of the Victorian era, and its elegance and vibrancy is mesmerizing to both newcomers and those who have visited previously. We left Houston as we do after most WAC events; with new perspective, great discussion, and a diversified understanding of the world around us.

The CIA’s Jim Olson Discusses Spies and Lies

With finals in full swing, LEAP Ambassadors and friends stole away to The Woodlands for a few hours to attend another wonderful World Affairs Council event, this time with Jim Olson, former Director of Counterespionage for the CIA.

As always, it was an entertaining and educational event, with Olson and his wife, Meredith (who was also in the CIA), particularly enlightening.

In a particularly nice touch the WAC’s Sandija Bayout asked, Morgan Robertson, President of the LEAP Ambassadors, to introduce Mr. Olson.

Olson discussed four spies he met and encountered during his career: Aldrich Ames, Clayton Lonetree, Eddie Howard, and Felix Bloch. Olson went in-depth into the threat posed by spying, and he had great contempt for the men he profiled. His greatest contempt was reserved for Aldrich Ames, who was one of the costliest spies in agency history. His wife, Rosaria, was complicit in his crimes, and she is out of prison, having served only five years.

Olson had less contempt and more pity for Clayton Lonetree, whom, according to Olson, never should have been in the position he was in. He had alcohol problems and was psychologically unstable and, in fact, didn’t originally make the cut as Marine Security. His crimes ultimately didn’t affect US Security much, and he has completed his prison sentence. Olson seemed to agree with General Alfred Gray, who during sentencing, indicated that Lonetree’s crimes were not the result of “treason or greed, but rather the lovesick response of a naïve, young, immature and lonely troop in a lonely and hostile environment.”

Meredith Olson also took the floor, discussing her career and the familial difficulties of a two-CIA family.

The Olsons told their children about their profession after receiving a death threat at their home. Their children were in their teens when they learned about their parents’ profession and, by extension, that their lives could be in jeopardy as a result. That’s a lot of weight to carry around, and that sort of helped us put our finals in perspective.

We had the chance to speak with the Olsons afterward, and a few of us purchased his book (and some of us already had it) and had him sign it. As usual, it was a wonderful event hosted by the World Affairs Council and a great way for us to cap the end of the semester.

The Largest Country on Earth: Learning more about India

Macey Schank and Michelle Cardenas

In a world increasingly interconnected and dependent on international cooperation, understanding the intricacies of foreign relations and diplomacy has never been more crucial. To further explore the topic, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston (WAC) featured former United States Ambassador to India Kenneth I. Juster at ChampionX’s headquarters.

During his introduction, Jahan Jafarpour highlighted Ambassador Kenneth’s extraordinary career as Ambassador of the United States to the Republic of India.

He also mentioned Ambassador Juster’s extensive education and former occupation as a lawyer. Following Mr. Jafarpour’s remarks, Ronan O’Malley, the moderator for the evening, and Ambassador Juster took the stage.

To start the evening, Ambassador Juster began with an introduction of the U.S. and India’s complex foreign relationship over the years. He explained that India is a nonaligned country, meaning it works with many countries, including the U.S., but is not allied with any particular country. One explanation for this non-alliance is due to India’s geographic position, which offers India unique opportunities and challenges.

India’s emergence as a nonallied global power has made it the bridge between the West and the global South. The recent formation of the BRICS nations, Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa further emphasizes this point. Ambassador Juster mentioned some of the concerns that came with the formation of BRICS. He believes this group can serve as a warning to the U.S. to strengthen foreign relations as the world begins to seek a shift in power moving away from a more Western-dominated world.

Ambassador Juster focused on the importance of India’s growing economy and what this means for the future of the country. Under Prime Minister Modi and his more direct economic approach, India is currently one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Countries like the U.S. and China are eager to work with India, despite their complex history, and in China’s case, a fostering sense of mistrust. Ambassador Juster expressed that the U.S.-India foreign relations is currently “one of the most consequential relations.”

Ending the night with the Q&A portion of the evening…

… we were able to learn more about Ambassador Juster’s role and what being Ambassador to India entails. Ambassador Juster describes the role as similar to that of a mayor who is responsible for all Americans and U.S. affairs inside the country, ranging from American schoolchildren, visas, intelligence, to the occasional arrested tourist. The role of ambassador is a multifaceted position that requires diplomatic finesse, cultural acumen, and a steadfast commitment to representing one’s country on the global stage.

The final question of the night was asked by Professor Yawn, who wanted to know who Ambassador Juster believes to be the most effective politician he has worked with, in which he notes former President George H. W. Bush and Jim Baker. In fact, he refers to this administration as the “Golden Age of Foreign Relations” due to its many triumphs.

Namaste

To follow the evening’s theme, corresponding with Ambassador Juster’s ties to the Republic of India, we decided to indulge in some Indian cuisine for dinner.

Olivia found an incredible restaurant named Namaste that proved to be absolutely delicious! Our server, Kledisa, ensured we made the most of our meal and recommended an array of a delicious dishes for us to try.

We started with some ginger garlic chicken and samosas for our appetizers. The table was laden with a variety of entrees, such as chicken butter masala, korma, madras goat pepper curry, chettinad with paneer, and roast chicken biryani, paired with naan bread and rice.

Namaste introduced us to a new and delightful experience with exceptional dishes and impeccable service. It truly was the perfect conclusion to yet another successful WAC event!

	Multi-Platform Media… on Fun and Flavor: Chilly at the…
	Highlights from the… on Glazing-A-Trail with Lauren…
	The Civic Leadership… on Foundational Activities of the…
	The Civic Leadership… on The Philosophical Foundations…
	LEAPing Into Action… on The Philosophical Foundations…