NEWS & EVENTS

Global Connections Start Here With Our New York State Capital Region Community

EVENTS CALENDAR

The heart of ICCR’s outreach efforts. Our calendar page allows users to see all the events on the ICCR schedule and have the option to filter and search those calendar entries. View upcoming engagement opportunities or read about archived events.

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NEWS releases

International Center of the Capital Region and University at Albany to Host “2026 Engage America: A Century of American Public Diplomacy” on October 6

By Beth Wales • May 14, 2026
This special public program will explore the human side of American diplomacy and the critical role diplomats play in advancing U.S. interests, supporting American citizens abroad, strengthening global partnerships, and promoting international understanding. The evening will feature a presentation by retired U.S. Foreign Service Officer Tom Selinger titled Portraits of American Diplomacy. Drawing from the oral history archives of the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training (ADST), Selinger will share compelling stories of American diplomats — including individuals from New York — who have: rescued Americans during international crises, opened global markets for American businesses and agriculture, strengthened alliances that protect collective security, and advanced democratic values around the world.

New Season of the 518 Ambassador Podcast

The 518 Ambassador Podcast brings global stories to New York’s Capital Region, connecting our community with inspiring leaders, thinkers, and changemakers who are shaping international dialogue.


In the premiere episode of the ICCR Podcast, host David Piper sits down with ICCR volunteers Mike O’Brien, Christine Fowler, and Barb Weiler to discuss their experiences with international exchange and community engagement. The guests share how they first became involved with ICCR, their memorable experiences hosting visitors from around the world, and the friendships they have built through cultural exchange.


Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of person-to-person connections in breaking down stereotypes and fostering mutual understanding. The episode also highlights the many ways people can participate in ICCR, from hosting visitors and dinner events to volunteering at programs such as Model UN. Overall, the discussion showcases how local community involvement can create meaningful global connections.

Past 518 Ambassador Podcast ePISODES

The 518 Ambassador Podcast continues to highlight global stories and local connections throughout New York’s Capital Region. Before launching the current season, ICCR featured conversations with distinguished guests whose experiences offered valuable perspectives on international engagement and cultural understanding.


In previous seasons, Executive Director Beth Wales spoke with Jim Ketterer, Senior Fellow at the Bard Center for Civic Engagement and faculty member in the Bard MA in Global Studies program. Drawing from his extensive work across the Middle East and North Africa, Jim shared lessons on diplomacy, leadership, cultural exchange, and the importance of stepping beyond one’s comfort zone.


These earlier episodes remain available as part of the podcast archive and continue to reflect ICCR’s mission of fostering global awareness, meaningful dialogue, and stronger connections between our local community and the wider world.