The World Affairs Seminar (WAS) was founded in 1977 by Professors Dr. Gaylon Greenhill and Dr. Dale Brock. Dr. Brock became the first WAS General Manager. His vision and enthusiasm for the Program were central to its success. He was the embodiment of the dream he had for our world, always ready to learn something new and spend hours listening to the participants, staff and speakers. He believed that we could advance the cause of peace in this world by gathering together to learn from one another. It is his tireless devotion that continues to inspire and motivate all who work as Seminar Staff today. Dr. Brock died September 2, 2008.

A scholarship fund in his memory has been created to honor his efforts and ensure his vision carries forward.

Throughout the last 32 years, the World Affairs Seminar has covered timely and significant topics, including human rights, nuclear arms control and disarmament, economics, environmental issues, global health, globalization, security, and global leadership, all with an emphasis on ways that students can make a difference in their communities and beyond.

The World Affairs Seminar has also offered students the chance to interact with people who have worked in government, international organizations, the media, and business. Some past keynote speakers include Dith Pran, New York Times photojournalist; Dr. Oscar Arias, former president of Costa Rica and Nobel Prize winner; Giandomenico Picco, former Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations; Dr. Heinz-Gerhard Justenhoven, director of the Institute for Theology and Peace in Germany; and Ed Cardoza, who works for Partners in Health in Boston, MA.