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We all have our individual impressions of IBM, many from the 1960s, when the company was seen as the safest source of business processing support. Led for 40 years by Thomas J. Watson, Sr., as an enlightened source of mechanical computing capability based on punch cards. There would inevitably be challenges of corporate and family (and technological) succession. Tom Watson, Jr., became the internal champion of transitioning the firm to electronic computing. And he may have been the only person who could oppose his father in a company built on yes men; apparently, his own motivation to transform IBM was an  intense antipathy toward his father.

Marc Wortman, PhD, is a multi-award-winning independent historian and freelance journalist. He is the author of five books on American military, technology, and social history, most recently The Greatest Capitalist Who Ever Lived: Tom Watson Jr. and the Epic Story of How IBM Created the Digital Age (PublicAffairs, 2023). A New York Times Book Review Editor’s Choice, it is the first solo biography of the leader who launched the computer revolution. The U.S. Military History Group named his previous book, Admiral Hyman Rickover: Engineer of Power (Yale University Press, 2022), winner of the 2023 Captain Richard Lukaszewicz Memorial Book Award as the outstanding military history book of the year.

His other books are 1941: Fighting the Shadow War, A Divided America in a World at War (Atlantic Monthly, 2016); The Bonfire: The Siege and Burning of Atlanta (PublicAffairs, 2009), and The Millionaires’ Unit: The Aristocratic Flyboys Who Fought the Great War and Invented American Air Power (PublicAffairs, 2006). A feature-length documentary based on The Millionaires’ Unit is available on streaming services. 

Following college at Brown University, he received a doctorate in Comparative Literature from Princeton University. He lives with his family in New Haven. 

Summary

Our speaker—historian and journalist Marc Wortman— on shared the life and legacy of Thomas J. Watson Jr., his impact on IBM, and its pivotal role in creating the modern digital age. Marc explored the fascinating interplay of technology, leadership, and personal drama that defined Watson Jr.’s tenure and IBM’s rise to prominence. The talk was based on his research for his recent book, The Greatest Capitalist Who Ever Lived: Tom Watson Jr. and the Epic Story of How IBM Created the Digital Age (A New York Times Book Review Editor’s Choice).

Marc opened by acknowledging IBM’s historical significance, particularly under the leadership of Thomas J. Watson Sr., who transformed a failing company into a leader in business computing using mechanical systems based on punch cards. Wortman describes Watson Sr. as a charismatic but domineering leader who cultivated a corporate culture of loyalty and discipline, often to the point of fostering a cult of personality around himself. IBM became renowned for its guaranteed employment and superior worker benefits, a model referred to as the “IBM way.”

Transition to Thomas J. Watson Jr.

Thomas J. Watson Jr., the oldest son, had a contentious relationship with his father and initially resisted joining IBM. Described as rebellious and plagued by personal struggles, Watson Jr. ultimately found discipline and confidence as a World War II bomber pilot. His wartime experiences revealed his aptitude for leadership, decision-making, and logistics, prompting him to return to IBM, where he eventually assumed leadership in 1956.

Four Pivotal Decisions

Wortman structures his talk around four major decisions Watson Jr. made during his career, each demonstrating his forward-thinking approach and willingness to take risks:

1. Commitment to Electronics:
   • After the war, Watson Jr. recognized the potential of electronic computing, even as his father remained skeptical. Despite initial setbacks, Watson Jr. championed IBM’s shift from mechanical tabulators to electronic computers, leading to the creation of the IBM 650, the first mass-produced computer.
2. Cultural and Organizational Revamp:
   • Upon taking full control of IBM, Watson Jr. dismantled his father’s centralized, personality-driven management style. He decentralized decision-making, promoted innovation, and cultivated a culture that valued creative thinking over deference. This transformation prepared IBM to adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape.
3. The System/360 Gamble:
   • Watson Jr.’s boldest move was the introduction of the IBM System/360, a revolutionary computer family designed to be compatible across applications. The project, costing over $5 billion (an unprecedented private investment), faced significant technical challenges but ultimately redefined computing, creating a standard for hardware compatibility and software flexibility. The System/360’s success cemented IBM’s dominance in the industry.
4. Choosing IBM Over Family:
   • During the System/360 crisis, Watson Jr. made the difficult decision to replace his brother, Dick Watson, who was struggling in his role overseeing engineering and manufacturing. This decision, though professionally necessary, deeply strained family relationships and underscored the personal costs of leadership.

IBM’s Legacy under Watson Jr.

Under Watson Jr.’s leadership, IBM became the world’s most valuable company, dominating the computing industry and driving the development of foundational technologies such as magnetic storage, database systems, and early artificial intelligence. The System/360 series alone set the stage for modern computing, enabling advancements in industries ranging from banking to aerospace.

Reflections and Conclusion

The presentation concludes by highlighting Watson Jr.’s extraordinary impact on both IBM and the global economy, justifying his designation as “the greatest capitalist who ever lived.” Wortman also reflects on the personal sacrifices and tragedies intertwined with Watson Jr.’s professional success, offering a nuanced portrait of a transformative leader.

Audience engagement included questions about IBM’s historical role, its relationships with other companies, and its long-term trajectory, providing additional context on the company’s influence and evolution. The session ended with Wortman signing copies of his book and expressing gratitude to the attendees.

Video Presentation 

The Koh-i-noor Diamond is one of the world’s most well known diamonds. It is by no means the world’s biggest diamond, but it is by far the most infamous. Its storied history spans centuries-the Koh-i-nor has passed through the hands of many rulers, dynasties and empires in South and Central Asia, including the Mughal emperors of India, Persian Shahs, Afghan rulers and Sikh Maharajas, before ending up in the British Crown Jewels. This rich history and the curse it allegedly casts on male owners has added to its notoriety, mystique and fame. Its controversial “acquisition” by Queen Victoria has made its presence in the British Crown Jewels a subject of debate. India, Pakistan, Iran and even the Taliban have laid a claim to it.

Sunil Saksena’s presentation will recount some of its history and the myths and legends that surround it. It’s an amazing story.

Sunil  is a member of the Darien DMA and its past President. He was born in India in 1944 and received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology , Roorkee.

He worked at Union Carbide India before proceeding to the University of California, Berkeley in 1966 for graduate work. He received a masters degree in engineering as well as an MBA from Berkeley. Sunil worked as a mechanical engineer with American Can Company in San Francisco where his claim to fame is that he designed the machine that puts the can cover on the beer can making it safe for you beer drinkers to safely imbibe. For the majority of his career he was in finance, first as an international banker with Bankers Trust Company serving in Singapore, Mumbai and New York and later with Fidelity Investments from which he retired in 2004.

He and his wife  lived in Darien for  38 years and have just this year moved to Vermont.

Summary

Sunil Saksena shared with us the story of the The Koh-i-Noor Diamond: A Gem’s Journey Through History.

The Koh-i-Noor diamond, currently weighing 93 carats, is a legendary gem with a rich and dramatic history spanning centuries and continents. Despite its relatively modest size by modern standards, the Koh-i-Noor’s fame stems from its ancient origins and the captivating stories surrounding it.

Origins and Early History

The diamond originated in central India, with legends tracing its beginnings to a divine gift from the sun god Suria to a local king. Unlike modern diamond mining, ancient Indian diamonds were alluvial — gently collected from riverbeds in the legendary state of Gonda. While most diamonds were tiny, occasionally a remarkable stone like the Koh-i-Noor would emerge.

Cultural Significance in Ancient India

In ancient India, diamonds were more than mere decorative objects:

• Considered auspicious objects
• Believed to channel planetary influences
• Symbols of prosperity and power
• Often used as the primary form of adornment in royal courts

India was the world’s sole source of diamonds until the discovery of Brazilian mines in 1725. Indian diamonds were coveted globally, from ancient Egypt to Rome and China. Today, the largest diamonds, which have eclipsed the Koh-i-Noor in size, are principally from Africa.

The Legendary Curse

The Koh-i-Noor carries an intriguing curse suggesting that only “God or a woman” can wear it without consequence. Throughout its history, the diamond has been associated with a trail of theft, bloodshed, and misfortune to common men and noble men alike

Journey through empires

The diamond’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary:

• 12th Century: First documented in Delhi, where it remained for 500 years
• 1737: Taken by Persian Emperor Nader Shah to Herat
• Mid-1800s: Acquired by Sikh Emperor
• 1849: Captured by the British and transported to England

The Mughal Connection

The diamond became particularly famous during the Mughal Empire. Emperor Babur, who acquired it in 1526, transformed it into the “Mountain of Light” (Koh-i-Noor’s literal translation). During this period, the Mughal Empire was incredibly wealthy, controlling over 100 million subjects across current-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.

The Mughals were known for their opulence and love of gemstones. Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned the spectacular Peacock Throne, which featured the Koh-i-Noor diamond as one of its centerpieces and included literally thousands of diamonds.

Persian Invasion and Afghan Rule

In 1739, Nader Shah of Persia invaded Delhi and plundered its riches, including the Koh-i-Noor. A popular legend, though unverified, tells of how Nader Shah acquired the diamond through a turban exchange with the defeated Mughal emperor, who had hidden it in his turban.

After Nader Shah’s assassination in 1747, the diamond came into the possession of Ahmad Shah Durrani, who established the kingdom of Afghanistan. The Koh-i-Noor remained in Afghanistan for the next 70 years

British Acquisition and Current Status

The British acquired the Koh-i-Noor in 1849 through a transaction that has been questioned by India as a colonial transgression and transported it to England. Today, it resides in the Tower of London as part of the British Crown jewels—the Crown of the Queen Mother, although it has not been worn publicly since 1953.

Ongoing Controversy

Currently, five different countries claim ownership of this remarkable gem: India, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and even the Taliban have made claims. England, however, has maintained that it acquired it legitimately and good faith as a spoil of empire

In the mid-19th century, British diplomats befriended a 10-year-old Punjabi Sikh prince, the Maharaja Duleep Singh, who’d inherited the Kohinoor. They took the boy’s diamond as part of an 1849 treaty marking the end of the second Anglo-Sikh war — and presented it to Queen Victoria.

Video Presentation

For over 40 years, Search for Common Ground has been building trust around the world, opening opportunities for collaboration between communities, and creating breakthroughs for peace. Whether global in nature, such as poverty, hunger or the environment, or closer to home, such as family or community relations, we face daily challenges to our abilities to deal with conflict constructively. Using everything from traditional diplomacy and mediation to video games and virtual exchange, we work one step at a time to change the nature of conflict – from a destructive force to a constructive one.

Stepping back from conflict enables and requires trust and provides the foundation for collaboration to solve complex problems. It allows people to look past differences, have difficult conversations, take shared risks, find common ground, and invest in pathways towards a shared future. Search for Common Ground CEO Shamil Idriss will discuss the organization’s principes, techniques and accomplishments—perhaps igniting a recognition in us for other arenas in which polarization can be bridged.

Shamil Idriss is the Chief Executive Officer of Search for Common Ground, the world’s largest dedicated peacebuilding organization. In his current capacity as CEO, and in his previous capacities as President, Chief Operating Officer, and Burundi Country Director, Shamil has led Search’s efforts to end violent conflict in more than 35 countries globally, including some of the most devastating conflict zones in the Middle East and Africa.

Shamil was appointed in 2005 by United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan as Deputy Director of the UN Alliance of Civilizations. In this role, he supported high-level political and religious leaders in developing policy recommendations and action plans to improve cross-cultural relations between Western and Muslim-majority countries, before, during, and after the Arab Spring revolutions. From 2004-2005, Shamil worked with the World Economic Forum to establish the Forum’s Council of 100 Leaders.

Shamil is also a pioneer in the use of interactive media technologies for cross-cultural education and collaboration. In 2008-2014, as the CEO of Soliya, he led a coalition to create a market for virtual exchange through partnerships with public and private sector leaders across the United States, the Arab League, and the European Union. This led to the establishment of the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative announced by President Barack Obama in February 2015, and the subsequent announcement by the European Commission of their dedicated fund to expand virtual exchange in 2017.

A graduate of Swarthmore College with degrees in Economics and Philosophy.

Summary

Shamil Idriss, CEO of Search for Common Ground, discussed global polarization and conflict resolution through trust-building and understanding.

His organization’s mission is to transform the way the world deals with conflict, away from adversarial approaches and toward cooperative solutions. They believe that conflict is inevitable but violence is not. Conflict is a natural result of human diversity. When we deal with conflict adversarially, it generates polarization and violence. When we collaborate, conflict catalyzes positive change. Their vision is a world where cooperation is the norm—where differences stimulate social progress, rather than precipitate violence.

Global Polarization Landscape

Idriss highlighted that the world has been experiencing unprecedented levels of political polarization since 1900, with societies increasingly viewing opposing groups as existential threats. This polarization is not just a political phenomenon but a global challenge that can potentially lead to destructive conflicts.

Conflict as a Constructive Force

Conflict is natural and inevitable, but violence is not. Idriss uses a powerful metaphor comparing conflict to friction – which can be destructive like an uncontrolled fire or generative as human control of fire has allowed human development and innovation. The key in keeping the flames under control is managing conflict through trust and understanding.

Five Vital Signs of a Healthy Society

Inspired by medical vital signs, Idriss and his organization have developed five critical indicators to assess a society’s resilience.

1. Intercommunal Trust: The level of trust across different racial, political, religious, and ideological lines.
2. Institutional Trust: Citizens’ trust in governing institutions, media, and service providers.
3. Violence Levels: The degree of physical insecurity and potential for escalating violence.
4. Agency: People’s sense of ability to improve their circumstances.
5. Resources: Understanding what is prioritized in the budget and what is ignored.

Diversity and Trust

Idriss emphasizes that diverse teams can be both the most and least effective, depending on trust. High-performing diverse teams outperform homogeneous groups, but building trust takes more time and effort across different backgrounds. The key is creating an environment where diverse perspectives can be shared openly and respectfully.

Practical Peacebuilding Approach

Search for Common Ground works in 36 countries, employing 850 full-time staff. Their approach includes:

• Facilitating dialogue between conflicting groups
• Creating collaborative platforms
• Establishing cross-cultural educational initiatives

Notable Achievements

• Facilitated meetings between Israeli and Jordanian generals that influenced the 1994 Peace Accord
• Created bilingual, multi-ethnic schools in Macedonia to bridge ethnic divides
• Developed a global framework for understanding and mitigating societal tensions

The organization’s core philosophy is transforming conflict from a destructive force to a constructive one, emphasizing trust-building as the fundamental mechanism for positive change.

Slides: Darien Mens Association – Trends in Global Conflict & Cooperation

Video Presentation 

Certainly one of the most prominent topics surrounding politics this year is the influence of social media, with its opportunity to publish every personal opinion without an editor focusing on truth, objectivity, and balance. This is a central them of the academic work of Susan Herbst.

Susan Herbst is University Professor of Political Science and President Emeritus at the University of Connecticut, having served for eight years as the 15^th president of the institution.  Herbst is author of five books, most recently, A Troubled Birth:  The 1930s and American Public Opinion from the University of Chicago Press.   Before coming to UCONN, she was Professor and Chair of Political Science at Northwestern University, Dean of Liberal Arts at Temple University, and Chief Academic Officer for the University System of Georgia.  She holds a B.A. in Political Science from Duke University and a doctorate in Communications from the Annenberg School of Communications, University of Southern California.

Summary

The talk presented by political historian Susan Herbst focused on the parallels between the 1930s and present-day America, especially in terms of public opinion, media influence, and the roles of government, populism, and public sentiment. Herbst began by discussing the rise of public opinion and polling in the 1930s, spearheaded by President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s innovative use of radio to communicate directly with the American public and George Gallup’s scientific polling methods. This era marked the birth of the concept of a unified American public opinion, and the use of radio as a tool for building national unity and morale, which was particularly relevant during the Great Depression and the lead-up to World War II.

Herbst also explored the dynamics of public opinion and populism in the 1930s, including the rise of figures like Huey Long and Father Coughlin, who both leveraged radio to spread their views. She argued that many current issues, such as anti-intellectualism, authoritarian populism, and paranoia about government, have roots in this earlier period. The development of polling in the 1930s by figures like Gallup not only aimed to quantify public opinion but also suggested that this “voice of the people” could serve as a safeguard for democracy. However, Herbst emphasized that polling itself can inadvertently shape public opinion by legitimizing specific issues, as seen with controversial topics in historical and modern polls.

The presentation drew direct lines between the public’s trust in polling, the ethics and expectations of political leaders, and modern-day concerns about misinformation, anti-elitism, and populism. Herbst suggested that polling today faces challenges, especially with issues around accuracy and the underrepresentation of certain groups, such as Trump supporters, due to response biases. The discussion extended into the role of media, arguing that news organizations often exploit polling data for sensationalism rather than informative reporting, a trend that echoes how 1930s advertisers and corporations promoted consumerism to form a “public.”

Herbst concluded by stressing the importance of teaching civics and media literacy from an early age to combat misinformation and polarization, arguing that better education could help future generations understand the importance of democratic participation. Additionally, she acknowledged the lasting influence of populist, charismatic leaders like Trump, who blend entertainment with politics. Ultimately, Herbst cautioned against taking democracy for granted, urging deeper reflection on the parallels between the 1930s and today, and the societal and structural changes needed to safeguard democratic principles.

Video Presentation 

Marcus G. Miller is a distinguished saxophonist, composer, and Music Curator from South Orange, New Jersey, now based in New York City. He began performing professionally in his teens, later graduating from Harvard University in 2008 with a degree in Mathematics. After a stint at Bridgewater Associates, he returned to music, making a name for himself in New York’s jazz scene. Miller has performed at high-profile venues across the world, including the Obama White House, Madison Square Garden, the World Economic Forum at Davos, Carnegie Hall.

Miller has collaborated and performed extensively with Jon Batiste, including Batiste’s Grammy winning album “We Are”, his documentary American Symphony, and the nationwide Uneasy tour, which included a date opening for The Rolling Stones.

Miller’s life-long fascination with the intersection of math and music has led to residencies at the National Museum of Mathematics, Brown University’s physics department, and TED appearances. In 2022, Miller became the Music Director at Grace Farms Foundation, curating programs like “Voices of Culture,” where he invites, performs with, and interviews some of the world’s best musicians, enabling them to share their deep knowledge of their traditions; and “Beauty & Logic,” where he performs while exploring his shared wonder between mathematics and music. Marcus currently is working on a interdisciplinary project, exploring themes of beauty and humanity via music and design in the age of AI.

Summary

Marcus Miller, a noted jazz saxophonist and music director at Grace Farms, examined and demonstrated the relationship between mathematics, jazz, science, and art. He highlighted how patterns, rhythms, and disruptive elements exist in parallel constructs, though very different forms, across these disciplines, showcasing how creativity and analytical thought intersect or mirror each other.

After positing his observations on the relationships, based on his musical explorations as well as a Harvard degree in mathematics, he demonstrated the phenomenon with audio-video clips of artists performing in genres as diverse as be-bop, pop, blues, and classical Baroque. To make his point, he would accompany these performances on his sax to emphasize for the audience the points he was making—to wit, the expected patterns of the Golden Ratio of mathematics can be used by a musician to disrupt the expectations a listener might have for repetition and pattern so that the listener is drawn into anticipating change rather than continuity in the aural experience.

The presentation was an introduction into Marcus’ current interest in “Beauty & Logic,” an interdisciplinary project exploring themes of beauty and humanity via music and design in the age of AI. To  reassure the audience, he acknowledged during the Q&A that he is drawn to jazz experiences first by its intuitive “tasty” appeal before looking more deeply into the armature of the piece to continuously improve his own understanding of his discipline.

Video Presentation

In 1995 after an absence of more than half a century, North America’s most iconic apex predator returned to the pristine wilderness of the world’s first national park. In 2023, after more than a decade of planning, students from the national award-winning Conservation Discovery Corps launched a field study of the wolves of Yellowstone. Join Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Curators, Jim Knox and Carolyn Rinaldi to hear their story…and experience the adventure of a lifetime.

Jim Knox serves as the Curator of Education for Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo where he directs educational programming and conducts field conservation for this AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) accredited institution. Jim is a graduate of Cornell University where he studied Animal Science and Applied Economics. He has tracked Gray Wolves in Yellowstone National Park, conducted field research on Alaskan Brown Bears, field conservation for Atlantic Salmon, and written for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and for Natural History magazine.

A member of The Explorers Club, Jim has served as an on-camera wildlife expert for The Today Show and The CBS Early Show. Jim has lectured for The Explorers Club and served as a guest speaker for The Yale School of The Environment, The Harvard College Conservation Society, and The United States Coast Guard Academy. He has been featured in The New York Times, served as a TEDx Presenter and as a Guest Host for Connoisseur Media Star 99.9 FM Anna & Raven Show. Jim writes a column, Wildly Successful, for The Greenwich Sentinel and is proud to serve as a Science Advisor to The Bruce Museum.

Carolyn Rinaldi is the Associate Curator of Education at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo where she leads Education and Conservation initiatives on and off grounds. Carolyn graduated from the University of Connecticut with a degree in Anthropology and Archaeology. As part of her studies, she travelled around the globe by ship, for three months, studying world cultures. Carolyn has experience as a veterinary technician as well as a birds of prey handler. After having a twenty-year career as a family therapist, Carolyn returned to the world of animals and joined the Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo team. She directs the Zoo’s AZA Award Winning Teen Volunteer program the Conservation Discovery Corps, and will be leading this year’s 2024 class in a second field expedition in Yellowstone National Park. Carolyn is the host of radio show, Zoonami – Adventures from Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo on iCRV Radio in Ivoryton, CT. She has had guest spots as a zoologist on Connoisseur Media’s Star 99.9 FM Anna & Raven Show.

Carolyn also has a passion for martial arts and teaches Karate and Self Defense at Yale University. In 2017, she was a member of the National Karate Team and competed in the Karate World Cup in Ireland, representing the United States.

Summary

Jim Knox and Carolyn Rinaldi from Beardsley Zoo explored the zoo’s conservation efforts and detailed their unique educational journey to Yellowstone National Park with students to study wolves and the broader ecosystem. They began by highlighting the intrinsic interest humans have in wolves, referencing Aldo Leopold’s insights on the “fierce green fire” within wolves’ eyes, symbolizing resilience, wisdom, and survival instincts. Jim and Carolyn presented Yellowstone’s history, focusing on the ecological impact of the park’s predator-prey dynamics, notably wolves, on its environment.

They traced the historical absence and reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone. Due to human concerns for safety, wolves and other predators were eradicated from the park by the early 20th century. The absence led to severe ecological imbalance, mainly due to the overpopulation of elk, which caused overgrazing, eroded landscapes, and declines in tree and plant species like Aspen and Willow. This decline subsequently affected other wildlife, reducing populations of animals like grizzly bears, foxes, and beavers.

In the 1970s, recognizing wolves as a keystone species, conservationists pushed for their return, beginning with the Endangered Species Act. In 1995, 14 wolves from Alberta, Canada, were reintroduced into Yellowstone, leading to a restored ecological balance. Carolyn explained how wolves decreased elk numbers, which allowed plant life and tree populations to recover, fostering a positive cascading effect that boosted populations of other species. This balance brought back bears, beavers, and various bird species, enhancing biodiversity in the park.

The Beardsley Zoo team, alongside a group of students, observed and studied Yellowstone’s wolf packs during their expedition, experiencing firsthand the intricacies of predator-prey interactions. The group witnessed wolves feeding on bison kills and interacted with National Park Service biologists involved in the Yellowstone Wolf Project. They learned to track wolves using GPS collars and studied prominent wolves like number 21, a revered alpha known for his strength and loyalty. The experience allowed students to gain valuable conservation insights, from wolf-pack dynamics to the wolf’s critical role within ecosystems.

The presenters shared personal anecdotes from their expedition, including seeing grizzly bears up close and observing other wildlife like bison, elk, and salamanders (yes, salamanders which had been illusive), illustrating the park’s rich biodiversity. They discussed other conservation projects, including Beardsley Zoo’s efforts to restore habitats, protect endangered species, and foster environmental awareness through youth programs like the Conservation Discovery Corps. Jim and Carolyn highlighted the zoo’s commitment to conservation beyond its 50-acre property, with projects supporting Atlantic salmon restoration and horseshoe crab tagging.

Concluding the presentation, Jim reiterated the importance of wolves and other apex predators in maintaining ecological balance and encouraged collective efforts in conservation. This unique expedition enriched students’ understanding of wildlife and ecology, imparting an enduring appreciation for the complex interplay within natural ecosystems. The session ended with a Q&A, discussing future challenges, including maintaining balanced predator-prey relationships, the impact of wolves on other species, and broader efforts to manage coyote populations in suburban areas.

Video Presentation

Amit Khanna, MD, is the Regional Director of Colon & Rectal Surgery, Bridgeport Hospital

Dr. Khanna is a New York City native and completed his undergraduate education at Johns Hopkins University. Returning to New York, he completed his medical degree from Mount Sinai/ NYU School of Medicine and completed a master’s in public health with a concentration in Health Policy and Management from Columbia University. He completed general surgery training at the University of Rochester followed by a fellowship in colon and rectal surgery at The Cleveland Clinic Florida.

His special interest areas are in complex colorectal disease, colorectal malignancy, anorectal disease, and minimally invasive robotic surgery. Dr. Khanna has been named five times as a Castle Connolly Regional Top Doctor, Philadelphia Magazine Top Doctor-in Colon and Rectal Surgery, and Top Doctor for Cancer. He has served as an appointed member of national committees of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons in video-based education, health economics, new technology and website development. Dr. Khanna currently holds the position of Assistant Professor of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, Regional Director of Colon and Rectal Surgery and Director of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Bridgeport Hospital.

Summary

Dr. Amit  Khanna, an accomplished colorectal surgeon, gave an informative talk about colorectal health, focusing on colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and treatment

His presentation emphasized the seriousness of colorectal cancer, noting it as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite improvements in colorectal cancer rates in patients over 50, the incidence is rising alarmingly in people under 50. Dr. Khanna stressed the importance of screening, particularly since colorectal cancer often starts as benign polyps that can turn malignant over time.

He discussed various screening methods, from the gold standard of colonoscopy to stool-based DNA tests like Cologuard. While non-invasive tests offer convenience, Dr. Khanna noted that they can sometimes produce false positives or negatives, which might lead to unnecessary procedures or missed diagnoses. He mentioned recent developments, such as a newly FDA-approved blood test for average-risk patients, which could change future screening practices.

Dr. Khanna also highlighted the influence of lifestyle choices on colorectal health, explaining that smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high red meat intake, and a sedentary lifestyle can significantly increase the risk of colorectal cancer. He encouraged increasing fiber intake, regular exercise, and a balanced diet rich in vegetables and whole grains.

Furthermore, he discussed emerging research on the microbiome’s role in colorectal cancer, noting ongoing studies at Yale examining the relationship between gut bacteria and cancer development. Dr. Khanna acknowledged that probiotics and dietary choices could impact the microbiome, but more research is needed to fully understand their preventive potential.

He also addressed the challenges survivors of colorectal cancer face, particularly in managing long-term effects from treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. The talk concluded with a strong message about the importance of primary care and team-based approaches to healthcare. Dr. Khanna emphasized that prevention, early detection, and ongoing support are key to reducing the burden of colorectal cancer

Video Presentation 

Video Presentation

As the daughter of a Pan Am Captain in the 60’s, Lucia Renshaw learned to navigate before she learned to drive. She had a full passport before she had a savings account. And she knew the Pan Am flight schedule better than she knew her class schedules.   What she didn’t know was the story about her father’s role in WWII.

Not that she didn’t try.  One time, while holding up a calendar of famous Pan Am “first flight” planes, she asked her father, “which ones did you fly?”  He replied simply and shortly:  “All of them.”

Four years ago, she started poking around to find his story. When she uncovered a thread of a story about her father, then Lt. C. Downer Renshaw (USAAC), flying Photo Reconnaissance in the Caribbean in 1939, she pulled the thread.  What she found launched her into the story of pre-war political intrigue, Pan Am’s roles in World War II, and the excitement of the then new field of aviation.

In elaborate deals forged by Pan Am’s founder Juan Trippe and FDR himself, the airline created a supply chain that ran from Miami all the way to the top of the world in China. And DMA member Don Loomis’ dad was one of the pilots.

Lucia, whose father also took part in this vital war effort, will tell the story of these secret missions and give history of the airline throughout its wartime operation.

Lucia Renshaw was born and raised in Westport, CT, and went to Staples High School. In 1975, she graduated with degrees in Business and Political Science from the University of San Francisco.  It’s a long way from Westport made even longer by the fact that to get there by Pan Am, she had to fly first to London or Guatemala.

After a 35-year career in Marketing Management in Financial Services, she was able to expand her hobby of family history research.  Her real passion lies in helping people discover the history of their ancestors who served in the Civil War and World War II.  She is currently using her skills to find the children of her father’s colleagues from the war years of Pan Am to share what she has learned with them. Don Loomis, Jr. was one of those treasured finds.

Lucia currently lives in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband, Bruce Covill.

Don Loomis is an active DMA member, having presented recently in the Current Affairs group on Voting Rights and with Mark Nunan on the war in Ukraine.

Don Loomis is a graduate of Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service. He spent three years active duty with the US Navy concluding as CIC Officer aboard USS Hammerberg DE-1015; eight years residency in Rome, Italy while working as a consultant with Syncronamics; returning to the US in 1978 he worked in shipping and concluded as senior consultant with Fisher International in Norwalk, where acquired language skills in French, Spanish and Italian were instrumental in building a world-wide database on the pulp and paper industry.  Don has been retired since 2014.  Don, and his wife Daniela, split their time between Darien and Daniela’s family home in Formia, Italy . . .  when not visiting daughter Deborah and 3 grandchildren in Washington DC.

Both Don, and Lucia’s dads, joined Pan Am in August 1940 and went on to participate in what became a crucial logistics supply route across the South Atlantic, over Africa, out to India where supplies were then flown “Over the Hump” into China  – this vital logistics life-line became  known as . ..  The CannonBall Express!!

Summary

Don Loomis, a DMA member, and Lucia Renshaw, who grew up in Westport, connected through their fathers’ work with Pan American Airways (Pan Am) during World War II. The presentation revealed Pan Am’s crucial role in secret supply missions to China and other parts of the world during the war (and even before the US entered the war).

Lucia Renshaw shared her personal story of discovering her father’s role in World War II, despite him never speaking about it during her childhood. Her father, a Pan Am pilot, was part of the company’s involvement in creating a vital logistics supply route, known as the “Cannonball Express,” which spanned from Miami to Brazil, across the South Atlantic to Africa, and then first to help the British at El Alamein, then extended to India, where materiel was sent over The Hump to equip the Chinese in fighting the Japanese. Lucia’s journey of uncovering her father’s contributions led her to dive into the broader history of Pan Am’s involvement in the war effort.

Don Loomis pointed out that his father and Lucia’s trained together for the young Army Air Force before being seconded to Pan Am on the same day in August 1940 along with over 100 other US Army pilots when Pan Am agreed to help the supply effort but needed more pilots. Both men participated in what became a critical logistics operation that helped support the war. Pan Am, under the leadership of its founder Juan Tripp, became instrumental in building a global aerial supply route, which included constructing airfields in Central and South America and Africa and facilitating the transport of military supplies (and planes for our allies) across vast distances. This operation involved forging deals between Pan Am, the U.S. government, and international allies to create the infrastructure necessary to support the war effort. To all accounts, this was done more expeditiously (and secretly) than if the government itself had undertaken it.

The presentation touches on the geopolitical context of the time, such as Germany’s growing influence in South America and its control of airlines in the region, which posed a threat to the Panama Canal and other US strategic interests in the Caribbean. The U.S. government, in collaboration with Pan Am, worked to eliminate Axis control of South American airlines (which required German pilots and crews) and build a system of air bases under the guise of commercial development.

Lucia detailed the challenging conditions faced by pilots during these missions. Planes were often stripped down to bare essentials; crews had to navigate dangerous and unpredictable weather conditions over vast distances in aircraft which were often without oxygen or pressurized cabins. Pan Am continued to develop refined routing, weather forecasting, and crew rotation to enhance efficiency eventually reducing supply times from over 40 days to over 40 hours. It also involved setting up an African airline network, which invoked recollections of a former DMA member and father-in-law to a current member who had been a pilot in Pan American Airways Africa.

The presentation concluded with a discussion on the legacy of Pan Am’s wartime operations and the personal connections between the presenters’ families. Pan Am’s efforts were recognized as a significant contribution to the Allied victory, and its work during World War II left a lasting impact on aviation and global logistics.

Selective  Bibliography on Pan Am

Video Presentation

John Odermatt began his career in 1982 where he served as a New York City Housing Police Officer, patrolling public housing developments.  John’s promotions with the Housing Authority Police and subsequently the New York City Police Department rise to the rank of Assistant Chief.   His assignments include the Executive Officer of the NYPD’s Intelligence Division where he was the coordinator of the 55^th United Nations General Assembly, Special Session and responsible for the security and coordination with Federal Agencies of over 300 dignitaries visiting New York City.

In 2000, John was detailed to New York City’s Office of Emergency Management as the First Deputy Commissioner located in 7 World Trade Center. After surviving the 9/11 attack, Mayor Rudolph Giuliani gave him responsibility for the coordination of over one hundred agencies for disaster recovery. In April 2002, Mayor Michael Bloomberg appointed John as Commissioner of New York City’s Office of Emergency Management. During his tenure he lead recovery efforts for several notable New York City emergencies including the 2003 Blackout.

Following a distinguished career of more than two decades in law enforcement and emergency management, John joined the private sector in 2004 where he led the Office of Business Continuity for Citigroup. He reengineered the program to be a leader in resiliency, crisis response and pandemic planning.   In 2011, John was named Global Head of a new Fraud Surveillance Unit. Finishing his assignment at Citi as the Global Head of Security Services where he was responsible for governance oversight for physical security at Citi facilities around the world and Citi’s crisis management program. He and his team provided centralized coordination, management, and mitigation of countless crisis events, ranging from incidents at local branches to significant international events across the globe.

Under John’s leadership, Citi has become known as a leader in resiliency, crisis response, and pandemic planning. Over the last three years, John had demonstrated that expertise in emergency management, and he had been a leader and critical partner to functions across the firm as we all navigated through the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. From organizing deliveries of crucial supplies to employees impacted by the devastating earthquake in Haiti in 2010; supporting recovery efforts after the U.S. hurricanes in 2012, and again in the Caribbean in 2017; spearheading the company’s response to COVID and supporting our EMEA-based team’s efforts to safely evacuate Citi employees and their families from Ukraine, John and his team have literally helped save lives throughout his tenure.

In February 2023, John opened a startup firm,  Ashwood Advisors. A company to provide clients with Resiliency, Business Continuity and Security Services.   Additionally , John is concurrently the Director of Crisis & Incident management for Charter Communications in Stamford Connecticut.

John is a graduate of St. Joseph’s College.  In June 2003, he received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from St. Joseph’s College.  John also holds a master’s degree in Management from New York University.  He is a graduate of Columbia University’s Police Management Institute. John has a daughter Meline and a son Thomas, both graduates of Fordham University. 

Summary

John Odermatt shared his experiences as during 9/11 as the First Deputy Commissioner of the Office of Emergency Management located in 7 World Trade Center (WTC). On 9/11, he was in his office in 7 WTC when the first plane hit. After the South Tower was struck, he and his colleagues quickly evacuated, moving to a safer location before the collapse of both towers.

John shared details the dangers he and his team faced, such as smoke inhalation and injuries from falling debris. He recalled the loss of colleagues, including 343 firefighters and several friends. His role in the aftermath was critical in coordinating the cleanup and recovery efforts, which lasted months. He spoke about the challenges of stabilizing the site, including ensuring the safety of buildings surrounding Ground Zero and managing the removal of 1.4 million tons of steel.

John explained the broader efforts to manage the crisis, including the eventual reestablishment of communications and the rebuilding process; and the lessons learned in emergency preparedness, particularly in building redundancies and practicing crisis management.

John also touched on his passion for educating others about scams that target the elderly, a cause close to his heart after his mother was nearly victimized. He offered his services on this challenge to DMA members pro bono. He can reached by DMA members at odermatt@ashwoodadvisors.com

Robert Dilenschneider, a longtime Darien resident and DMA member,  is frequently called upon by the media to provide commentary and strategic public relations insights on major news stories. He has counseled major corporations, professional groups, trade associations and educational institutions, and has assisted clients in dealings with regulatory agencies, labor unions, and consumer groups, among others.Bob formed The Dilenschneider Group in October, 1991. Headquartered in New York and Chicago, the Firm provides strategic advice and counsel to Fortune 500 companies and leading families and individuals around the world, with experience in fields ranging from mergers and acquisitions and crisis communications to marketing, government affairs and international media.

Bob has written a number of books, including this summer’s The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence: Everything You Need to Know.

Prior to forming his own firm, Bob served as president and chief executive officer of Hill and Knowlton, Inc. from 1986 to 1991, tripling that Firm’s revenues to nearly $200 million and delivering more than $30 million in profit. He was with that organization for nearly 25 years.

He started in public relations in 1967 in New York, shortly after receiving an M.A. in journalism from The Ohio State University, and a B.A. from the University of Notre Dame.

In 2012 The Dilenschneider Group established the Civility in America Lecture Series, which features many of the nation’s leading thinkers from a wide variety of professions and provides a perspective on what must be done to restore civility in our country.

Speaker arranged by Tom Igoe.

Summary

Robert Dilenschneider spoke of the key principles for leadership as the importance of honesty, listening, compromise, and admitting mistakes in leadership. He spoke about the upcoming election, stressing its significance and urging people to vote despite the challenges posed by the candidates. Furthermore, he touched on the global impact of political leaders and emphasizes the need for better leadership, both in the U.S. and internationally.

Bob offered his views on the media, social media’s impact on society, and the importance of effective crisis management. Drawing from his professional experiences, he shared insights into the importance of surrounding oneself with capable teams during crises, admitting mistakes promptly, and learning from them. He drew examples from prominent figures like FDR, Jack Welch, and consumer products such as Tylenol, illustrating the lasting impact of leadership decisions on public trust and organizational success.

In summary, his talk discussed leadership, power, responsibility, and influence in the context of business and politics, with a focus on integrity, decision-making, and the importance of civility in a polarized society.

Video of the Presentation 

September 11, 2001 disrupted so much of our society, our security, our sense of safety. It also changed our relationship with our flag. After 9/11, the flag became ubiquitous—flying in communities, businesses, at events, and “flying” flat as decals everywhere. It has also been co-opted by partisanship. Yet we all remember an earlier time when it was not just about patriotism; it was also a whimsical theme that celebrated Americanism…just an easier way of life for us, perhaps with greater innocence. No one can remind of the imagery of that era like Kit Hinrichs, with his rich collection of amusing and idiosyncratic applications of the stars and stripes.

From one of the world’s leading graphic designers comes a stunning tribute to America’s most enduring icon-the Stars and Stripes.The Revolutionary Congress resolved in 1777 that “the flag of the United States be 13 stripes, alternate red and white, that the Union be 13 white stars in a blue field representing a new constellation.” Since that time, the American flag has been raised high in wartime triumph and peacetime celebration; burned in fervent protest; sewn lovingly onto quilts, caps, pillows, and bags; appropriated by the commercial sphere to sell goods as varied as cigars, and designer clothing, and rock-and-roll albums; and faithfully honored every 4th of July to celebrate America’s independence. This collection of more than 3,000 Stars and Stripes artifacts ranges from Civil War-era banners and Native American braided moccasins to an early 20th-century “friendship” kimono and original flag art by several of the world’s leading designers.

Kit Hinrichs, noted graphic designer and American flag collector, will give a profusely illustrated talk on America’s national icon—the stars and stripes. His conversation will include facts, myths and legends behind the flag over its nearly 250-year history.  Kit will discuss how this single piece of cloth has enmeshed  itself into our American culture from its 18th century origin until today.

Kit’s assemblage of American memorabilia numbers in the thousands. His only family heirloom, a 36 star handsewn wool flag sewn by his great, great aunt in 1865, is the corner stone of the collection.

In addition to historical flags, the collection now includes Navajo Weavings, Toy Soldiers, Antique Quilts, Political Buttons, Patriotic Posters, Children’s Toys and Games, Anti-war images, Postal Stamps, Tobacciana, Historic Photographs and volumes of pieces of Ephemera.

Kit Hinrichs served as principal in several design offices in New York and San Francisco and spent 23 years as a partner in the international design consultancy Pentagram, before opening Studio Hinrichs in 2009. His design experience incorporates a wide range of projects, including brand development, promotion, packaging, environmental graphics, editorial and exhibition design. He is also a noted American Flag collector and founder of the Stars & Stripes Foundation.

Kit’s work is included in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art, New York, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Denver Museum of Art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Letterform Archive. In addition to authoring “Narrative Design,” he has co-authored other books on design .including “Typewise” and “The Pentagram Papers.” He co-founded @issue: The Journal of Business and Design.

Kit has had flag exhibitions in museums across the country, including New York, Louisville, Doylestown,, Reno, Los Angeles and San Francisco. He is an author of “Long May She Wave” A Graphic history of the American Flag. He is in the process of creating a new American flag book for the 250^th anniversary of the United States, titled “Broad Stripes/Bright Stars “,

Summary

In this illustrated talk, Kit Hinrichs shared his personal passion for the American flag, discussing its history, myths, and facts. His personal collection includes more than seven thousand flag-related memorabilia, with an early inspiration being a 36-star wool flag sewn by his great-great-aunt in 1865. This vast collection also includes historical flags, Navajo weavings, toy soldiers, and antique quilts. Hinrichs described his joy in exploring the iconography of the American flag.

During the presentation, Hinrichs engaged the audience with a quiz about the American flag’s history and myths. The questions ranged from who designed the American flag (not Betsy Ross, but Francis Hopkinson, for which he was paid two jugs of rum) to the legalities of flag burning (it is both a form of free speech and the official method of retiring a flag). He also touched on how the flag’s design evolved with the addition of new states, and the longest-serving flag design being the 50-star version, in use since 1960.

Hinrichs elaborated on his collection of American memorabilia. Over the years, this passion grew into a substantial collection of over 7,500 items, including flags, postcards, toy soldiers, cookie molds, spoons, and compacts. He highlighted items from significant historical moments, such as World War I fans, patriotic women’s magazines, and stamp cancellations featuring the flag.

The talk moved through various ways the flag has been represented in American culture, from military formations creating “living flags” in the early 20th century to art, product packaging, and propaganda. Hinrichs shared insights into folk art and fine art representations of the flag, with examples from Native American beadwork, Navajo textiles, and Depression-era quilting.

Hinrichs also explored the commercialization of the flag, including its use in advertisements, product branding, and promotional materials. He cited examples of flags on candy boxes, tobacco tins, and advertising banners, showcasing how the flag permeated everyday American life.

In a lighter moment, he shared anecdotes about collecting, including buying entire sets of toy soldiers just to acquire a single flag bearer figure. His collection features over 500 flag bearers, each with unique details that represent different aspects of American history.

The talk ended on the topic of the flag in times of war, particularly its use in propaganda and as a symbol of patriotism. From World War I posters to the iconic image of the flag-raising at Iwo Jima during World War II, Hinrichs illustrated how the flag has been a powerful tool for rallying national pride and support during conflict.

In closing, Hinrichs shared a personal design he created after 9/11, a tribute to the first responders and victims of the tragedy. He left the audience with a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted history of the American flag and its continued significance in American culture.

The event concluded with a brief Q&A session, where Hinrichs addressed questions about flag myths, including the belief that the flag should never touch the ground (which is false, as long as it is not damaged), and confirmed that the U.S. flag is unique in being designed to adapt to the addition of new states. The presentation offered a rich exploration of the American flag’s cultural, historical, and artistic significance.

Video Presentation