This is a paid piece from Augustana University and the Center for Western Studies.
Simplified: Michael A. McFaul, the former U.S. ambassador to the Russian Federation, will deliver the keynote speech, "Russia and the Future of Europe" at the 25th Boe Forum on Public Affairs on Thursday, March 31. It's hosted by Augustana University and the Center for Western Studies.
Why it matters
- It's a timely conversation, with the ongoing war following Russia's invasion of the Ukraine, and McFaul is an expert on Russia's domestic and foreign policy.
- McFaul's presentation is free to attend, meaning anyone can come, listen and learn. That's intentional, organizers said, and it fits with the mission of the Boe Forum.
- The Boe Forum – named for former South Dakota Gov. Nils Boe, who created the event – aims to bring speakers to address widely interesting and important current topics. Past speakers include Madeline Albright, Mikhail Gorbachev and Desmond Tutu.
"To be able to have what is arguably one of the most knowledgeable people in the U.S. on this topic come onto campus ... it's a great way to promote Augustana and the Center for Western Studies," spokesperson Kamryn Miller said.
What can I expect at the event?
The presentation is titled "Russia and the Future of Europe."
It's expected that McFaul will cover topics including:
- the threat to world peace by the Russian Federation,
- the strength of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO),
- and future relations between the U.S. and Russia.
The event will be hosted by Augustana President Stephanie Herseth Sandlin.
How do I get tickets?
Tickets are free and available online here.
Doors open at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 31, and the event begins at 7:30. Seating is general admission.
