About the Council:
World Affairs Council is the premier forum in the Inland Empire for discussion of national and international subjects. The Council provides a platform for leaders and experts in diplomacy, news, media, business, international trade, the military, arts and culture. Speakers from the United States and other nations around the globe present programs at the invitation of the Council. Whether you are an expert on foreign affairs, or just want to keep up with current news, the Council offers you ample opportunity.
The Council has a membership of more than 400 men and women in Riverside and San Bernardino counties and the San Gabriel Valley region. Founded in 1964 by presidents of area colleges and universities as well as business leaders, the Council is a forum for public discourse on matters of international importance. Sponsors are academic institutions, businesses and community leaders throughout inland Southern California.
Nonpartisan and not-for-profit, the Council is an educational organization which presents multiple perspectives on complicated issues. The Council does not take positions on issues, but encourages public discussion of many points of view. The Inland Southern California Council is one of 11 active councils in California and the third oldest, following the World Affairs Council of Northern California (San Francisco) and the Los Angeles World Affairs Council. Through a recent agreement, members of each Council can attend programs at other California Councils at the member rate, as well as join in each other's Diplomatic Tours. About 100 Councils are in the United States, each independent and governed by a local board of directors.
The Council is proud that the current organization traces its heritage to Frank Miller, founder of the world famous Mission Inn, a national historic landmark hotel. Frank Miller held several international meetings at the hotel and in 1926 established the Institute of World Affairs, at which members gathered once a year to review international events. The World Affairs Council is the successor to that Institute, and is pleased that Inn owner Duane R. Roberts shares interest in global concerns. The Mission Inn is a major sponsor of the Inland Southern California Council.
To learn more about the World Affairs Council, please visit WACInlandSoCal.org.