WKTV Staff
The World Affairs Council of West Michigan will present a discussion led by retired U.S. Ambassador William Garvelink titled “Global Trends Driving International Relations: Pandemics, Corruption, and Failed States” on Thursday, May 31, from 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Calvin College’s Gezon Auditorium.
From 2007-2010, Garvelink served as U.S. ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Prior to his appointment as ambassador, he served as principal deputy assistant administrator in the U.S. Agency for International Development’s Bureau for Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance, where his responsibilities included oversight of USAID’s worldwide humanitarian assistance and democracy programs.
From 1988 to 1999, he served in the Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance, working around the globe to conduct assessments and direct relief operations. Prior to his work in OFDA, he served for two years in the Department of State’s Bureau for Population, Refugees, and Migration with responsibilities for southern Africa.
Ambassador Garvelink now serves as senior adviser for global strategy at the International Medical Corps.
He holds a B.A. degree from Calvin College and an M.A. degree from the University of Minnesota.
No reservations needed for the discussion. The public invited with a $10 general admission cost. Free is available parking on campus.
For more information visit worldmichigan.org/civil .
