Mission & Vision

Mission

As a nonpartisan nonprofit organization, we aim to promote international awareness, understanding, and connections to enhance the region’s global stature and prepare Tennesseans to thrive in our increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Vision

A well-informed community that thinks critically about the world and the impact of global events.

History

The Tennessee World Affairs Council was incorporated on February 14, 2007, as a nonprofit educational charity to deliver global awareness programs and resources to communities and schools in Tennessee. It was founded by community members concerned about Americans’ lack of knowledge about world affairs. After opening the doors of its office in Cookeville, Tennessee, on May 1, 2007, the Council became a member of the national network of World Affairs Councils, all independent, nonpartisan organizations that share the same goal to bring global awareness programs to Americans. By affiliating with the WACA network, the Tennessee Council became eligible to share the national programs with local schools and communities that would not have been able to access these resources otherwise. In July 2015, the Council announced its relaunch from Nashville hosted at the Belmont University Campus. The TN WAC continues to provide international education awareness opportunities to Middle Tennessee communities and serves state-wide needs through virtual programming.

TNWAC TODAY

Following the legacy of our founder, Patrick Ryan, the Tennessee World Affairs Council (TNWAC) is dedicated to informing and inspiring individuals to understand the world by increasing the number of in-person events. As a regional leader in global affairs education, TNWAC promotes lifelong learning and serves as a convener for discussions and programs on international affairs, global business, multiculturalism, and international education.

Our events provide a vital networking platform for Tennessee’s business leaders, policy makers, academics, students, and multicultural communities. We believe that gaining global insights and broad perspectives is essential for thriving in an interconnected world and for responsible citizenship in an increasingly interdependent global economy. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for comprehending their impact on the U.S. economy, foreign policy, and national security.

Belmont

Belmont University is a private Christian university in Nashville, Tennessee. Founded in 1890 by schoolteachers Ida Hood and Susan Heron, Belmont College was incorporated in 1951. Belmont University offers bachelor's degrees in over 90 academic majors in nine colleges with over 25 master’s and five doctoral programs. Belmont has over 190 student organizations. These include the Student Government Association (SGA), The Student Activities Programming Board (SAPB), Greek organizations, and other special interest organizations.
Belmont is committed to helping learners of all ages lead extraordinary lives of purpose, character, and wisdom. They believe in creating a space where every student can belong. At Belmont, you’ll join a close community of Bruins who care deeply for each other and are eager to celebrate what makes each of us special. Transform your mind, life, and the world around you as a Bruin.
Get in touch, schedule a visit, or start your application today.
Belmont University | A Private Christ-Centered College in Nashville

Strategic Goals

Fundraise to cover expenses for programs, staff, resources, and resources needed to reach our growth and sustainability goals.
Enhance and expand our collaboration and influence with our strategic partners.
Focus on robust programming and marketing to advance visibility of the organization.
Expand and engage with the education and business community to find ways in which TNWAC can add value to them.
Expand our outreach to other regions of Tennessee as a way to be recognized a state organization.
Build an organizational infrastructure for a sustainable future.

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