St. Petersburg Conference on World Affairs

Founded in 2013, by former U.S. Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Douglas McElhaney and Professor Thomas Smith of the University of South Florida, the annual St. Petersburg Conference on World Affairs (SPCWA) brings together diplomats, military, media, scientists and experts in many fields to work collaboratively at better understanding and operating in the world.

Our Mission:

A forum for international experts to educate, engage, and empower members of our community and beyond, focusing on the fields of international relations, economics, environment, culture, humanity, and health. We believe that a well-informed citizenry is crucial to sustain a vibrant democracy, and that knowledge and understanding of the world can inspire enlightened change around the globe.

Panels of distinguished diplomats, military, media, and academic experts discuss critical international issues of the day at each annual conference. The public, including students of USF St. Petersburg and other area universities, are cordially invited to attend the annual conferences free of charge.

To date, St. Petersburg Conference on World Affairs has been a resounding success. Thousands of local residents and students have attended sessions. Participants continue to show their support through both financial contributions, repeat attendance and public praise on social media.

Based in St. Petersburg, Florida, St. Petersburg Conference on World Affairs is presented by St Petersburg In The World, a 501 (c) 3 organization. Contributions, therefore, are tax deductible.