Category: Speaker Announcements (Page 4 of 29)

Speaker programs at Wednesday DMA Meetings

Nancy Coughlin, “The Opportunities and Achievements of Person to Person,” Apr 30, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

Person to Person

Person to Person (P2P) supports families and individuals as they move toward stability with healthy food, clothing, housing assistance, and a path to economic opportunity.

Each person P2P has the opportunity to serve has a unique story. Whether it’s a single mother struggling to work enough hours to provide for herself and her children, an elderly man living alone on disability, or a young family looking for guidance to navigate housing expenses in Fairfield County, each person has a unique reason for calling on P2P and P2P is there to serve them all, no questions asked.

Nancy Coughlin, CEO, Person to Person

A close-up of a person smiling AI-generated content may be incorrect.Nancy joined Person to Person in June of 2019, bringing expertise and experience in food insecurity, anti-poverty, and women’s and children’s issues. Prior to joining P2P, Nancy served for seven years as the Executive Director at Neighbor to Neighbor, a Greenwich-based organization dedicated to providing food and clothing to low-income families and children, and prior to that, practiced employment litigation with Baker McKenzie in NYC.

Nancy received a BA in psychology from the University of New Hampshire, and a J.D. from the Suffolk University Law School.

Arranged by Alex Garnett

Summary
The Heart of Help: Nancy Coughlin on Building Stability Through Compassion and Action

It’s not every day you hear a speaker who makes statistics feel personal. But that’s exactly what Nancy Coughlin, CEO of Person-to-Person (P2P), accomplished in her recent talk. With warmth, clarity, and a call to action, she walked us through the stark realities of economic hardship in Fairfield County—and how her organization is helping people move toward stability—one meal, one rent check, and one conversation at a time.

Founded in 1968 after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Person-to-Person was born out of a vision of justice and reconciliation. Today, it’s one of Connecticut’s most impactful social service organizations. Coughlin, who came to P2P in 2019, brings a unique blend of legal expertise, nonprofit leadership, and grassroots empathy. She isn’t just running a program—she’s reframing how we think about poverty and potential.

What’s changed since P2P’s early days? A lot. Today’s challenges are steep: Fairfield County has the second-highest income inequality in the nation, and in towns like Stamford and Norwalk, up to 60% of kids qualify for free or reduced lunch. As Coughlin put it, “The people we serve are often working, but they simply can’t keep up.”

So what does P2P do?
They meet people where they are—literally. Whether through mobile food pantries, home deliveries, or on-site caseworkers, they reach deep into communities with food, clothing, emergency financial assistance, and longer-term coaching programs. Their four food pantries (including two mobile) now distribute enough groceries for over 2.5 million meals a year—more than double what they managed pre-pandemic.

But Coughlin stressed that this isn’t just about charity—it’s about systems. She pointed to housing costs as the single biggest driver of need, with over 50% of renters in the area spending more than a third of their income just to stay housed. “Rent eats first,” she said, and that leaves little for food, transportation, or health care.

She also highlighted how federal safety net programs have been slashed just as demand is rising again. The loss of expanded SNAP benefits, the child tax credit, and rent assistance—programs that briefly cut child poverty to historic lows during the pandemic—has led to a resurgence of hunger and homelessness. “Poverty is back on the rise,” she warned.

Still, there’s hope—and it shows up in the form of volunteers, donors, and creative problem-solvers. With over 3,000 volunteers, P2P leans into community support. Their programs are bilingual, tailored, and responsive—from financial coaching to job training to car seats for new parents. “Support” is the operative word in P2P’s mission, and Coughlin made it clear: they’re not here to “rescue” people—they’re here to walk with them.

As one audience member noted, “This is a real model for community service.” And it is. But it’s also a model for what’s possible when we stop asking, “What’s wrong with them?” and start asking, “What systems can we fix together?”

Coughlin ended her talk with a message we all needed to hear: “Every child deserves to grow up and reach their full potential. Our job is to make sure they can.”

Video Presentation 

Anthony Anthony, “Branding the State of Connecticut,” Apr 23, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

Connecticut, as we all know, is actually a wonderful place to live and raise a family. Yet only half of Connecticut residents said they were proud of the state in a recent survey, even though 73% felt it was a good place to live. Part of the challenge is that Connecticut has not defined itself around its resources and attributes; there are few who can describe  what’s wonderful about our state and those in Fairfield County might see it merely as a suburb of New York. Governor Lamont is determined to change that so that people know better what makes Connecticut special.

Anthony M. Anthony is an executive marketing and communications professional currently serving as the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) for the State of Connecticut. As the first CMO, he oversees the newly created Office of Statewide Marketing and Tourism, working tirelessly to shape and promote a compelling narrative about Connecticut as an exceptional place to live, work, and play.

Previously, Anthony served as the Special Advisor and Communications Director to Governor Ned Lamont, where his storytelling skills and strategic guidance contributed to Governor Lamont’s high approval ratings.

Anthony’s expertise was built over the years in the private sector as a creative director and strategist at boutique brand communications agencies in New York City guiding Fortune 500 brands across the tech, media, consumer packaged goods, hospitality, and healthcare sectors.

Summary

Reimagining Connecticut: How the State’s First Chief Marketing Officer is Telling a New Story

What do you think of when someone says “Connecticut”? For many, the answer is fuzzy—maybe a reference to its historic nickname “The Constitution State,” or perhaps just a quiet nod to its proximity to New York or Boston. But as Anthony Anthony—yes, that’s his real name—sees it, that’s exactly the problem.

Appointed in 2023 as Connecticut’s first Chief Marketing Officer, Anthony is on a mission to give the state something it has long lacked: a clearly defined identity. He made a compelling case for why marketing isn’t just about tourism or PR—it’s about state pride, economic growth, and shaping the future.

From Middle Child to Main Character

Anthony quickly realized that Connecticut suffers from what he calls a “middle child syndrome.” It’s wedged between cultural giants—New York and Massachusetts—and has struggled to carve out its own distinctive brand.

“It’s a great place to live,” he said, “but a lot of people here can’t explain why.”

Defining the Brand

Anthony merged the previously siloed offices of tourism and workforce marketing into a single, unified Office of Statewide Marketing and Tourism.

The result? A cohesive message built around the phrase: “Connecticut: Make It Here.”

The slogan, he explained, reflects more than just a manufacturing legacy. It’s a call to action for dreamers, builders, innovators, and families. Whether you’re starting a business, writing a novel, or raising a family, Connecticut can be your launchpad.

A New Kind of Marketing Machine

In his first year on the job, Anthony’s team helped drive over 15.4 billion media impressions, up from just over 4 billion the year before. Creative, low-cost campaigns like the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail, the Oyster Trail, and a push to establish the state as the Pizza Capital of America (trademark pending) brought national attention—and a sense of fun—to the brand.

There’s also a strong business case for investing in marketing. According to industry benchmarks, every dollar Connecticut spends on tourism marketing returns about $8 in economic activity. Anthony’s team is also developing a statewide rewards program—“Made”—to incentivize residents to share their experiences and stories online, turning word-of-mouth into a measurable force.

Data-Driven Optimism

Anthony backed up the storytelling with stats that surprised even the most seasoned locals:

  • Connecticut has seen four consecutive years of population growth, outperforming national and regional trends.
  • The state’s GDP and job growth in key metros like Hartford, New Haven, and Fairfield County have exceeded expectations.
  • Net promoter scores—a measure of how likely residents are to recommend the state—have jumped by over 100% in categories like work, live, and visit.

He acknowledged challenges, of course—cost of living, traffic congestion, and estate taxes chief among them—but stressed that these aren’t insurmountable. In fact, he said, they’re already being addressed through fiscal stability, infrastructure investment, and targeted tax relief.

Not Just a Campaign—A Community

Anthony emphasized that branding isn’t about spin—it’s about storytelling, culture, and shared values. “We’re not just marketing a state,” he said. “We’re building a sense of belonging.” That’s why the campaign is increasingly tapping into local stories: from shellfish farmers in Stonington to chefs in New Haven, to students and CEOs sharing what makes Connecticut work for them.

And the efforts aren’t limited to tourism. The marketing office is collaborating with business development agencies to attract investment from other states and even abroad. As he pointed out, European firms are increasingly eyeing U.S. locations to avoid tariffs—Connecticut, with its skilled workforce and robust infrastructure, is ready to make its case.

Looking Ahead

Upcoming initiatives include:

  • The launch of a Connecticut Pizza Trail (voting is open now).
  • Support for America 250 celebrations via the state’s popular tourism site.
  • A quarterly thought leadership series to connect business, education, and government leaders.
  • Expansion of regional flight access, particularly at New Haven’s Tweed Airport.

Anthony closed with a reminder: marketing Connecticut isn’t just his job—it’s everyone’s. Whether you’re a business owner, a town official, or a lifelong resident, he urged people to share their stories, promote their communities, and proudly say what makes the state worth calling home.

“We all have a stake in how this place is perceived,” he said. “If we want people to make it here, we’ve got to show them how.”

Note: Members interested in engaging with Anthony over the marketing program should email him at anthony.anthony@ct.gov.

Video Presentation

Aaron Cooper, “Educating for an Unpredictable World”: Apr 16, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

Aaron Cooper has dedicated his career to pre-k through grade 9 independent school education.  He has been a teacher, coach, advisor, and administrator for the last 22 years.  Aaron Cooper joined New Canaan Country School in July 2018.

Aaron earned an Ed.M. in Private School Leadership and an M.A. in Educational Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University; he received his B.A. in the Growth and Structure of Cities from Haverford College, and a diploma from Groton School.

Prior to joining NCCS, Aaron was the Head of Elisabeth Morrow School in Englewood, N.J. for six years. During his 15 years at EMS, Aaron also served as Assistant Head and Dean of Students. Previously, Aaron worked at the Peck School (NJ), Germantown Friends School (PA), and with the A Better Chance (NY) organization.
Aaron serves on the Boards of Horizons at NCCS, the Westover School, and the New Canaan Community Foundation.  He has also served on six re-accreditation visiting committees for peer independent schools.  In his free time, Aaron enjoys running, reading, traveling, and anything outdoors.
Summary
Educating for a Changing World: How New Canaan Country School Prepares Students for Life and Democracy

In a wide-ranging and deeply reflective talk, Aaron Cooper, Head of School at New Canaan Country School (NCCS), presented a compelling case for rethinking education—not just as preparation for tests or college, but as the foundation for a meaningful life in a volatile, uncertain, and often overwhelming world.

Cooper, whose career spans nearly three decades in pre-K through grade 9 education, began by outlining the modern strategic challenge: how to educate children for a world that is no longer just unpredictable, but increasingly brittle, anxious, nonlinear, and incomprehensible. The key, he argues, is to cultivate adaptability, curiosity, resilience, and a sense of purpose in students—not simply fill them with information.

The Deweyan Roots of a Modern School

NCCS was founded in 1916 during a time of educational revolution. Drawing from the philosophies of John Dewey, the school adopted a progressive educational model emphasizing experiential learning, student-centered classrooms, integrated curriculum, and the idea of school as a miniature democracy. These principles still anchor the school today.

“Rather than learning about science, students should act as scientists,” Cooper explained, stressing Dewey’s belief in learning by doing. He detailed six key tenets of Dewey’s philosophy—many still radical in mainstream education today—including the idea that education is not merely preparation for life, but life itself.

Signature Programs that Shape Children and Educators

NCCS’s distinctive programs have positioned it as a leader in shaping both students and teachers:

  • Horizons at NCCS, launched in 1964, now educates 400 low-income students annually from Stamford and Norwalk, providing summer and school-year academic enrichment and life experiences. This initiative has expanded to 70+ affiliate programs nationwide.
  • The Apprentice Teacher Program, founded in the 1960s, was the first of its kind and has since become a model for independent schools. It offers immersive two-year classroom experience and professional development, pairing new educators with lead teachers.
  • In the early 2000s, NCCS collaborated with psychologist Angela Duckworth to pilot the Mission Skills Assessment, measuring non-cognitive traits like resilience and collaboration—now a national tool.

Responding to Today’s Challenges

Cooper believes today’s students face more complex pressures than ever before. To help them thrive, schools must be proactive and grounded in what works:

  • Technology: While digital tools like AI can enhance learning, unchecked screen time and social media are damaging, particularly to adolescents. NCCS has implemented a no-phone policy during school hours for the past four years—at students’ own request—and works with families to delay smartphone and social media use.
  • Active, Purposeful Learning: From robotics to global affairs presentations, students engage in open-ended, collaborative problem solving that builds intellectual habits and confidence—key ingredients in future readiness.
  • Boys in Education: Cooper raised concerns about boys’ engagement in traditional classrooms, noting the national rise in ADHD diagnoses and declining college enrollment among boys. NCCS prioritizes movement, play, and outdoor learning—methods that benefit all children but are especially important for boys’ cognitive and emotional development.
  • Foundational Skills: Early childhood education at NCCS now integrates professional support in speech and motor skills directly into classrooms. The COVID-19 pandemic, Cooper said, has made developmental delays more visible—and addressing them proactively is essential.
  • Student Voice and Empathy: Through regular public speaking and service opportunities, students learn that their ideas matter. “What you believe and what you say is important,” Cooper said. NCCS encourages students to act generously, think deeply, and question confidently.

The Role of Parents and the Purpose of Education

Throughout the presentation and Q&A, Cooper emphasized the importance of partnership with parents. At NCCS, curriculum conversations are guided by shared values, open dialogue, and a commitment to child-centered growth.

In response to a question about the growing debate over whether education should lead to economic self-sufficiency or democratic engagement, Cooper offered a thoughtful balance: “It’s not so much about redefining the purpose of education,” he said, “but about coming together periodically to define it again.”

Endowment and Access

NCCS’s ability to maintain such an ambitious program is supported by an endowments among pre-K–9 independent schools—approximately $60 million. This allows the school to offer robust financial aid, fund Horizons, and invest in initiatives like expanded outdoor learning spaces.

Final Thoughts

As Cooper noted, “We’ve long said at NCCS that our goal is to develop happy, healthy, and successful 30-year-olds.” His talk reflected a school that takes this mission seriously—by building intellectual foundations, nurturing emotional growth, and empowering children to lead lives of purpose and impact.

In an era of division and digital overwhelm, NCCS is leaning into its progressive legacy—not as nostalgia, but as a blueprint for preparing students to thrive in tomorrow’s complex world.

Juliet Cain, “Pollinator Pathways: Native Plants and Safe Habitat,” Apr 9, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

Juliet Cain is a cofounder of the Darien Pollinator Pathway with Deepika Saksena. The DPP seeks, through events and publications as well as through advocacy at the state and local levels, to help eliminate the use of pesticides in our yards and public spaces and to restore pollinator populations with native plantings. As former Chair of the Darien Beautification Commission, Juliet spearheaded the native plantings on the slopes at the Darien Town Hall.

Darien Pollinator Pathways is a part of a larger undertaking to create a corridor of adjacent properties—private residences and public spaces—that provide safe habitat for birds, bees, butterflies and other insects. The goal is to make Darien one big pollinator pathway with private, commercial and municipal spaces being pesticide free and hosting native plants. Native plants, as opposed to invasives, are plants that existed before Europeans arrived. These plants will be more resilient, low-maintenance and healthy choices for gardens, and will support native insects and birds—enhancing our natural ecosystems.

Juliet has been a resident of Darien for almost 20 years. Since retiring from the practice of law in New York City, she has focused on environmental issues. She served on the Policy on Resilient Forests for CT’s Future (the PRFCT Future) working group 2021-2022 and on the CT GC3 Climate Smart Agriculture & Forestry working group in 2022. She was Chair of the Conservation Committee of the Garden Club of Darien and Zone Representative for the Conservation Committee of the Garden Club of America 2020-2022.  As former Chair of the Darien Beautification Commission, Juliet spearheaded the native plantings on the slopes at the Darien Town Hall.  Juliet is also an accredited organic land care professional certified by CT Northeast Organic Farming Association and an Adviser to the Darien Land Trust.

Summary

Rewilding Darien: Juliet Cain’s Inspiring Call to Action for Pollinators and the Planet

At a recent Darien Men’s Association event, environmental advocate Juliet Cain captivated the audience with a dynamic and deeply informative presentation on the critical importance of pollinators, the growing ecological crisis, and how local residents can make a real difference through the Darien Pollinator Pathway. Blending science, policy, humor, and personal stories, Cain outlined a roadmap for restoring biodiversity—starting in our own backyards.

Nature Isn’t Optional—It’s Our Life Support

Opening with a quote from indigenous cultures—where the word for “plant” translates to “those who look after us”—Cain reminded the audience that humans are entirely dependent on nature. Insects, and bees—as pollinators and enablers of plant growth—are essential to our survival. They keep ecosystems functioning, contribute to clean air and water, and pollinate roughly one-third of the crops we eat.

As entomologist E.O. Wilson once put it, insects are “the little things that run the world.” Without them, life on Earth would collapse within weeks. Without humans, on the other hand, the insects would continue to thrive.

A Chain Reaction of Decline

Cain detailed alarming losses in biodiversity:

  • 76% decline in flying insects in parts of Europe since the late 1980s.
  • 3 billion birds lost in North America since 1970.
  • 86 out of 127 butterfly species once common in Darien are now in decline.
  • Native bee populations in Connecticut are also down by approximately 50%.

Why? Cain pointed to a few culprits: habitat loss, invasive plant species, climate change, and the pervasive use of harmful pesticides like neonicotinoids.

She also highlighted the staggering environmental cost of our most familiar landscaping feature: the lawn. Turf grass, which supports virtually no biodiversity, consumes 8 billion gallons of water per day in the U.S. and is drenched in over 70 million pounds of pesticides annually.

Native Plants, Native Bees, and New Thinking

Cain emphasized the importance of native plants—species that have evolved over millennia in harmony with local pollinators. For example, native dogwood trees support over 100 species of moths and butterflies, whereas their ornamental counterparts often support none.

She playfully compared Connecticut’s native bees to Wall Street professionals: early-rising, tireless, and effective. By contrast, the non-native honeybee is more of a 9-to-5 commuter. Native bees are better suited to pollinate native plants, many of which can only be pollinated by specific species.

The takeaway? When we plant native, we restore the foundation of the food web and create a ripple effect through the ecosystem—from the soil to the sky.

Pollinator Pathway: A Grassroots Revolution

The Darien Pollinator Pathway is part of a broader 501(c)(3) network that spans over 100 towns across 20 states. It’s a community-driven initiative focused on three pillars:

  • Education about the role of pollinators.
  • Advocacy for smarter landscaping policies and pesticide reduction.
  • Ground-level action: planting native species and removing invasives.

Participants are asked to take a simple pledge: plant at least one native species on their property and avoid synthetic chemicals like herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides.

“We don’t advise on financial disclosures or nature-related dependencies,” Cain joked, referencing recent global sustainability frameworks. “What we do is plant.”

And plant she has. Cain shared her own yard’s transformation—from sterile lawn to buzzing pollinator haven, complete with wildflowers, bees, and even an accidental butterfly-to-the-head guest experience. Her gardens, along with native beds at Darien Town Hall, serve as living examples of ecological restoration in action.

Connecting the Dots: From Backyards to Biodiversity Corridors

The goal of the Pollinator Pathway is to connect isolated pockets of green space with corridors of pollinator-friendly habitat. This is especially important for insects and birds with limited travel range. Cain cited the metallic green sweat bee, which can only fly about 500 feet—a single parking lot or housing development could become an insurmountable barrier.

By creating small pollinator patches, Darien residents can help form an interconnected web that supports both local and migrating species, including monarch butterflies on the Atlantic Flyway.

What You Can Do

Cain concluded with a call to action, urging everyone to rethink their landscaping habits:

  • Convert part of your lawn into a native garden.
  • Replace turf with clover or long grass paths.
  • Support nurseries that grow true native species—not sterile cultivars.
  • Avoid pesticides, even if they’re marketed as “safe.”

She recommended resources such as PollinatorPathway.org, native plant nursery Earth Tones, and Planet Wild for landscape design. For DIY gardeners, she pointed to video tutorials from New Directions in the American Landscape.

Even a single plant makes a difference. “Do it for the bees. Do it for the birds. Do it for the air and the water,” she said. “And if nothing else, do it because it will bring you joy.”

Video Presentation 

General Ronald Welch, “The Challenges Facing Veterans in Connecticut,” Apr 2, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

Even while veterans are often welcomed home from combat tours as heroes, they also may encounter long term neglect in health care, disorientation and PTSD, and even homelessness. This presentation will address these challenges, their scale, their conditions, and programs that seek to address them.

Brigadier General, (Ret.), USA, Ronald P. “Ron” Welch is the Connecticut Commissioner of the state’s Department of Veterans Affairs. Ron enlisted in the U.S. Army on April 22, 1978, and served on active duty with the 2 Ranger Battalion of the 75 Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis Washington. During his active-duty service, he attained the rank of sergeant and completed Basic Airborne School, Ranger School, Jungle Warfare Course, USMC Amphibious Recon Scout Swimmer Course, Jumpmaster Course, Primary Non-Commission Officer Course, USMC Scout Sniper Course, Emergency Medical Technician Course, Special Operations and Tactics Course, and the Pathfinder School. On May 4, 1981, he sustained serious injuries during a line of duty parachute accident. He left active service after completing his tour of duty on October 2, 1982.

He returned home and joined the Connecticut National Guard and eventually attended Officer Candidate School and on August 11, 1984, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the infantry. He then served full-time in numerous positions in the Connecticut National Guard’s Infantry units as a rifle platoon leader, company commander, and various staff positions. He was promoted to Colonel on October 1, 2004, and deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from 2005 to 2006 as a senior American advisor to an Afghan National Army, Infantry Brigade located in Eastern Afghanistan, providing training, advice, and conducting combat operations.

He retired from military service in 2017. Following his retirement, General Welch sought opportunities to provide support for veterans and active-duty service members and families, and he accepted a position as Vice President of Military and Family Services for Veterans Rally Point with Easterseals Capital Region and Eastern Connecticut, a nonprofit organization that provides expanded access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities for those with disabilities and the veteran population.

Brigadier General Welch is a graduate of Eastern Connecticut State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1992 and a Master of Science degree in organizational management in 2007. He also earned a Master of Strategic Studies in 2011 from the U.S. Army War College.

He resides in southeastern Connecticut. His oldest son Stephen is a combat veteran with three tours. He is a full-time Physician Assistant for the CT National Guard, previously serving in the ED at Yale, a daughter Katherine is attending Quinnipiac University in the Occupational Therapy master’s program. And his youngest son Ethan is entering his senior year at Pennsylvania State University majoring in Public Health.

Summary

Brigadier General (Ret.) Ron Welch, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs, provided a thoughtful and comprehensivel presentation in Darien, outlining the state’s history, current initiatives, and pressing needs in caring for its veterans.

Welch opened by highlighting Connecticut’s unique role in veterans’ history, noting that the nation’s first veterans’ home and hospital were founded in Darien in 1864 by philanthropist Benjamin Fitch. That legacy lives on today in the Shady Grove cemetary in Darien (the first veterans cemetary in our history) and the Connecticut Veterans Home now in Rocky Hill—a 92-acre campus with 40 buildings, 1.5 miles of tunnels, and a five-star rated healthcare facility. The Rocky Hill campus also includes dormitory housing and family homes for women veterans and their children.

A decorated veteran himself, Welch served with the 75th Ranger Regiment and later as a senior American advisor to the Afghan National Army. After retiring, he led efforts at Veterans Rally Point, helping veterans reintegrate through healthcare access, employment training, and education. His personal connection to public service is reflected in his children’s careers—his son is a flight surgeon with the Connecticut National Guard, his daughter is an occupational therapist, and his youngest is pursuing a Ph.D. in epidemiology.

Welch explained that Connecticut is home to roughly 150,000 veterans, with over 80% over the age of 60. This aging population requires increasing support in healthcare, housing, and advocacy. The DVA’s four core missions include skilled nursing care, residential services, advocacy and assistance, and cemetery and memorial services. The department also supports family housing, with five houses on campus currently occupied by single mothers and their children.

Among the DVA’s top priorities are expanding housing, upgrading electronic medical records, enhancing website accessibility, realigning budgets, and increasing outreach. Welch emphasized the importance of local Municipal Veterans Representatives—trained volunteers who serve as the first point of contact for veterans in their towns, helping them connect to services and benefits.

He also discussed the importance of Connecticut’s certified Veterans Service Officers, who have generated $199 million in direct benefits for veterans. Welch is advocating for more service officers in underserved areas, particularly the northeast and northwest corners of the state.

Cemetery services remain a focus, with Spring Grove Cemetery in Darien long at capacity and a growing need for expanded burial space. While efforts to acquire new land in Middletown were recently blocked, the department is actively seeking alternative sites and already has state bond funding secured for the expansion.

Mental health and suicide prevention were a central theme in Welch’s remarks. Since 9/11, more than 120,000 veterans have died by suicide—double the number of names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Welch emphasized that social isolation, substance abuse, and mental injury are common threads in these tragedies. He urged veterans and their families to reach out for help, referencing the importance of confidential therapy, peer support groups, and strategies such as removing ammunition or using gun locks to reduce impulsive actions. “Suicide is a permanent solution to temporary problems,” he said. And he highlighted the need to distract a troubled veteran for 5-8 seconds when they are considering harming themselves in order to give them time understand the consequences of what they are planning.

Welch shared efforts under the Governors’ Challenge, a national initiative to reduce veteran suicide. He also highlighted new approaches to mental health, including peer meetups and emerging therapies like psychedelic-assisted treatment, which is currently being studied. He stressed the effectiveness of group sessions that blend casual conversation, shared activities, and emotional connection.

While traditional veterans’ organizations such as the VFW and American Legion have seen declining membership, Welch noted that younger veterans are engaging in different ways. Events like Irreverent Warriors hikes and “Hike to Remember” ruck marches offer camaraderie and purpose. These modern gatherings, he said, help veterans reconnect and begin to process their experiences in healthier ways.

In response to an audience question, Welch acknowledged the strong partnership between Connecticut’s state and federal VA systems. He praised the care provided at West Haven and Newington facilities, which are affiliated with Yale and UConn medical programs. Despite national budget uncertainty, he assured attendees that veterans’ healthcare and benefits remain protected.

Welch closed by returning to the local history. He spoke about the statue originally placed in Darien, now relocated to Rocky Hill, depicting a Civil War officer comforting a young girl—symbolizing the enduring costs of service and the need to care for veterans and their families.

In presenting a commemorative coin to a local host, Welch thanked the community for its continued support. “We owe our veterans more than words,” he said. “We owe them a life of dignity, opportunity, and care.”

Video Presentation 

Joseph Polisi, “Beacon to the World: A History of Lincoln Center,” Mar 26, 2024

June 14, 2024 /

 

Dr. Joseph W. Polisi was president of the Juilliard School for 34 years from 1984-2018 and is now president emeritus and chief China officer of the School. Through his experiences at Juilliard and Lincoln Center, Polisi creates in his book a complex tableau which traces the idealistic and determined efforts by John D. Rockefeller, 3rd and his colleagues to create a unique environment where the most prominent performing arts institutions in New York City would be brought together at a venue named Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

Through readings and historic photos, Polisi will guide members through the Center’s history from late 1955 to the present day, pointing out the involvement of such artists, architects and politicians as Leonard Bernstein, Beverly Sills, Robert, Moses, Philip Johnson, and many others and reflect on the current status of Lincoln Center as it shifts away from classical programming in favor of genres like pop, hip-hop, social dance, and comedy.

Upon stepping down from his role as president of Juilliard, Polish became Chief China Officer, supervising the overall development of The Tianjin Juilliard School in Tianjin, China. Opened in fall 2020, Tianjin Juilliard offers audition-based programs on pre-college and graduate levels. The graduate school program is taught in English and offers a USA-accredited master’s degree from The Juilliard School. There are also public programs for adult learning and instrumental training, as well as an innovative learning environment, Juilliard Imagination, featuring interactive exhibitions for adults and children. 

Polisi is an accomplished bassoonist who has performed throughout the USA, produced several recordings, and released a solo album of twentieth-century bassoon music for Crystal Records. He has published many scholarly and educational articles and frequently speaks about arts and education. He has authored three books The Artist as Citizen (2005), a collection of articles and speeches concerning the role of performing artists as leaders and communicators of human values; and American Muse: The Life and Times of William Schuman (2008), the first full-length biography of Schuman. Both are published by Amadeus Press. Polisi’s third book, Beacon to the World: A History of Lincoln Center, was published by Yale University Press in June of 2022.

Before Juilliard, Polisi was dean of University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, dean of faculty at Manhattan School of Music, and executive officer of Yale University School of Music. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Yale and holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Arts degree in international relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. He has been awarded ten honorary doctorates and is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

–Summary

What began as a Cold War-era dream to elevate America’s cultural standing has, over six decades, become one of the most iconic performing arts institutions in the world. Dr. Joseph Polisi, President Emeritus of The Juilliard School and author of Beacon to the World, recounted the complex and colorful history of Lincoln Center in a sweeping presentation that spanned its political inception, architectural misfires, artistic triumphs, and cultural transformations.

At the heart of the story is John D. Rockefeller III, who envisioned Lincoln Center as a “beacon to the world.” In the 1950s, Rockefeller and a group of business leaders began planning a center that would unify opera, dance, theater, and music—a first of its kind—as a means of complementing the US atrength in economics, politics, and the military with global leadership in culture.

The location—16 acres on Manhattan’s Upper West Side—was cleared through Robert Moses’ urban renewal program, displacing thousands in what remains a deeply controversial chapter. Moses, a champion of automobile-centric infrastructure, imagined Lincoln Center as a cultural destination surrounded by parking lots. That vision quickly evolved as the area gentrified and grew around it.

The construction of Lincoln Center was monumental. It cost $185 million (over $2 billion today) and brought together “star” architects like Wallace Harrison (Metropolitan Opera), Philip Johnson (State Theater), and Eero Saarinen (Drama Theater). But it wasn’t always smooth. Philharmonic Hall, now David Geffen Hall, opened in 1962 to acoustic disaster. The Cleveland Orchestra’s George Szell famously told officials to “tear it down.” Over the decades, the hall underwent six costly renovations, culminating in a 2022 overhaul praised for dramatically improved sound and design.

Lincoln Center is home to 11 constituents, including The Juilliard School, New York Philharmonic, Metropolitan Opera, and New York City Ballet. But it has also been a battleground. Artistic rivalries, political wrangling, and high-stakes power plays shaped its development.

Lincoln Center’s public art installations—by the likes of Marc Chagall, Alexander Calder, and Henry Moore—were not without controversy either. Bureaucratic resistance and artistic boldness clashed, especially when Lincoln Kirstein smuggled massive sculptures into the State Theater before they could be vetoed.

Today, the institution faces new challenges. The pandemic disrupted attendance patterns and the digital era has redefined how people engage with classical music. The average age of concertgoers is rising. Lincoln Center Inc., once a major presenter of classical music, has pivoted toward hip-hop, comedy, and social dance in an effort to diversify its audience—a move that has drawn criticism from traditionalists like Polisi, who urged a return to artistic excellence over political trendiness.

Meanwhile, abroad, Polisi has been leading the Tianjin Juilliard School in China, where classical music is booming. With tens of millions of children studying piano, China today mirrors the United States of the 1930s in its enthusiasm for the Western canon—an irony not lost on the former Juilliard president.

Lincoln Center remains a living institution—one that, for all its imperfections and politics, continues to shape and reflect American cultural life. As Polisi concluded, “Art doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate. It just has to be true.”

Video Presentation

Andrew Traub, “HBS Community Partners Helping Local Service Organizations with Strategic Planning,” Mar 19, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

HBS Community Partners

Harvard Business School Club of Connecticut Community Partners (CP) is a group of HBS alumni who work with Connecticut nonprofits on a pro-bono basis. CP works with about 17 nonprofits each year, largely strategic planning assignments of 3-4 months and staffed by  5-7 volunteers. CP also provides 1-2 scholarships for outstanding nonprofit leaders to the HBS program SPNM (Strategic Perspectives in Non-profit  Management), a one week intensive program using the case method for nonprofits taught by HBS professors. CP also awards the Turbo Award of $ 20,000 every other year to a nonprofit who can best leverage this amount. CP will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2025.

Andrew Traub will discuss the Community Partners organization and three local case studies of clients as a means of introducing the program to DMA members who may be involved with non profits and service agencies that may be good candidates for pro bono consulting assistance or members who may want to contribute. A speaker from Post 53 will discuss their organization as well as CP’s strategic planning project for them.  Andrew will also discuss  CP work with Darien Community Fund and the Bruce Museum in Greenwich.

Andrew Traub has been a board member of the Harvard Business School Club of Connecticut for 13 years. He has worked on forty projects in social services, education and the arts. Andrew has been board president and chaired several subcommittees. Andrew, a third-generation retailer, worked in this industry for over 40 years as a C level executive of retail and wholesale companies and a consultancy in retail strategy and international brand development. He has been a keynote speaker in both the US and China. Andrew and his wife, Lois, who is a retired attorney, live in Stamford; they have three daughters who live in Arlington, Virginia; Croton on Hudson, NY; and Los Angeles; and four grandchildren.

Arranged by Jan Selkowitz and Tom Mullaney

Note: Members interested in discussing engaging with the Community Partners should email Andrew at atraubconsulting@gmail.com.

Summary

Andrew Traub introduced the Harvard Business School Club of Connecticut Community Partners (CP) as a group of HBS alumni who work with Connecticut nonprofits on a pro-bono basis with strategic business consulting. This was an opportunity to encourage the highly experienced DMA members to consider joining them in the volunteer work; and also to encourage those members who serve on non-profit boards to consider the CP for management consulting that could contribute to setting the goals for their community service organizations and evaluating the structure and impact measures for these non-profts.

CP works with about 17 nonprofits each year, largely strategic planning assignments of 3-4 months and staffed by  5-7 volunteers. Traub presented three case studies of their work: the Darien Community Fund, the Bruce Museum, and Post 53. See their annual report of activities over the past year.

Post 53 is a unique, student-led emergency medical service operating in Darien, Connecticut. Unlike traditional EMS services, Post 53 is a volunteer-run organization staffed largely by high school students, who operate under the guidance of experienced adult advisers. For over 50 years, the organization has provided 24/7 emergency medical care to the town—at no cost to patients.

Tom Mullaney, a CP board member and active consultant with the group who helped arrange the presentation, introduced the program with a scenario personal to many in the room:

“Imagine dining out with your spouse when suddenly, you collapse. Within moments, a team of young but highly trained emergency responders arrives, racing against time to save your life. They transport you to the hospital, ensuring you receive the critical care you need. Weeks later, as you recover at home, you receive a letter—not a bill, but a survey asking how they can improve their services.”

Led by Executive Director Joe Larcheveque, Post 53 trains students rigorously, requiring them to become certified Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) by their sophomore year. These young professionals respond to medical emergencies throughout town, often encountering high-stakes, life-or-death situations.

The impact of Post 53 was felt firsthand by a surprising number community members in attendance, including residents who credited the organization with saving their lives. One individual recounted surviving cardiac arrest in his driveway thanks to Post 53’s rapid response. Another recalled an emotional moment when a young EMT turned out to be a family friend’s daughter, highlighting the close-knit nature of the Darien community.

The Post 53 program, which receives no direct funding from the town, relies entirely on donations to maintain its fleet of ambulances and support its operations. A major focus of the collaboration with Community Partners was strengthening financial sustainability, ensuring that Post 53 can continue serving Darien’s growing population.

CP’s recommendations included expanding fundraising efforts, rethinking board structure, and evaluating potential municipal funding. The discussion also underscored the resilience and professionalism of Post 53’s student responders, whose experiences often lead to careers in healthcare, public service, and beyond.

Video Presentation

Bonnie Siegler & Helene Stapinski, “The American Way: A True Story of Nazi Escape, Superman, and Marilyn Monroe,” Mar 12, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

In a remarkable tale that intertwines history, pop culture, and the resilience of the human spirit, Bonnie Siegler and Helen Stapinski bring forth The American Way: A Story of Nazi Escape, Superman, and Marilyn Monroe. This compelling narrative delves into the extraordinary journey of Siegler’s grandfather, Jules, who fled Nazi Germany, and the unexpected connections he formed with the cultural icons of his era.

An Unlikely Connection
Jules, a furrier by trade, was living in Berlin in the 1930s when the rise of Hitler threatened his family’s existence. Sensing the impending doom, he made a daring journey to the United States in search of a sponsor who could help them escape. That sponsor turned out to be Harry Donenfeld, the man behind DC Comics and the publisher of Superman.

While Jules was securing his family’s passage to America, two young comic book creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, were developing the character of Superman—a hero who would go on to symbolize hope and justice during a time of global turmoil. The connection between Jules and Donenfeld was purely coincidental, yet it intertwined their fates with the rise of one of the most iconic superheroes of all time.

A Brush with Marilyn Monroe
After successfully escaping Germany, Jules settled in New York City. It was there, in the 1950s, that he inadvertently captured history on film. During the shooting of The Seven Year Itch, on the very block where he lived, Jules used his 16mm camera to record Marilyn Monroe’s famous subway grate scene. Unbeknownst to him, this amateur footage would later become the only surviving film of the original shoot—before it was recreated on a soundstage.

Survival and Legacy
Despite the horrors his family endured—many of whom perished in Nazi concentration camps—Jules managed to build a life in America. His survival was not just about escaping a war; it was about reclaiming a future. His story is a testament to the resilience of refugees and the sacrifices made to protect family.

The book The American Way sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of history, where comic books, Hollywood, and real-life heroism intersected in ways that continue to shape American culture. Siegler and Stapinski masterfully weave a story that is both deeply personal and universally relevant.

A Story That Demands to Be Told
The book is not just about Superman or Monroe—it’s about the essence of the American dream, and how those who seek refuge often become the foundation of the country’s cultural and historical fabric. Through meticulous research and intimate storytelling, Siegler and Stapinski bring to life a narrative that is at once harrowing and hopeful.

With The American Way, readers are invited to reflect on the past while recognizing the ongoing struggles of immigrants and refugees seeking safety and opportunity. In Jules’ journey, we see both the best and worst of America—the open doors and the turned backs, the opportunities and the obstacles.

Siegler and Stapinski’s work serves as a reminder that history is never as distant as it seems, and that every family has a story worth telling.

Authors

Bonnie Siegler is the founder and creative director of award-winning, multi-disciplinary, graphic design studio, Eight and a Half. The author of Dear Client, a guide for people who work with creatives, and Signs of Resistance, a visual history of protest in America, she also taught design in the graduate schools of Yale University and the School of Visual Arts for many years. She lives in Westport.  It is a story of Bonnie’s family and she did most of the research finding the threads of her family’s experience.

 

Helene Stapinski is the nationally bestselling author of three memoirs: Five-Finger Discount, Murder in Matera, andBaby Plays Around. She writes regularly for The New York Times; her work has also appeared in The Washington Post,New York,Travel & Leisure, and dozens of other publications. She teaches at New York University and lives in Brooklyn. Helene was the principal author to support Bonnie’s research.

Video Presentation

Annelise Osborne, “From Hoodies to Suits: Innovating Digital Assets in Traditional Finance”: Mar 5, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

Annelise Osborne is chief business officer at Kadena, a blockchain technology company, where she is focused on upgrading finance. Annelise has over 20 years of experience in finance, credit, real estate, family office, risk, structuring, governance, and digital assets. She was previously head of institutional for Arca Labs, working with companies to drive blockchain innovation through strategic partnerships and advisory services as well as COO of Propellr LLC, company that creates a platform for digitally held assets. Annelise spent 12 years at Moody’s Investor Service running teams in structured finance. She is a thought leader, board advisor, university lecturer and author. Her book, From Hoodies to Suits: Innovating Digital Assets in Traditional Finance, hit shelves in June 2024. Annelise holds an M.B.A. from Columbia Business School and a B.A. in Economics from The College of William and Mary.

Summary

Annelise Osborne, Chief Business Officer at Kadena, a blockchain technology company, delivered a comprehensive talk on the evolving role of blockchain in finance. With over two decades of experience in finance, credit, real estate, and digital assets, Osborne provided insights into blockchain’s transformative potential, challenges, and its increasing integration into traditional financial markets.

Osborne emphasized that blockchain is not just about cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Instead, she argued, it is a foundational technology poised to revolutionize financial transactions by making them faster, cheaper, and more secure. She likened blockchain’s evolution to the transformation of mobile phones, highlighting that future applications will likely integrate seamlessly into daily finance without users explicitly thinking about blockchain.

Key Themes from the Discussion

  1. The Divide Between “Hoodies and Suits”

Osborne introduced a framework in which she categorized tech-savvy blockchain innovators as “hoodies” and traditional finance professionals as “suits.” While blockchain was initially driven by hoodie-wearing entrepreneurs, it is now at a stage where financial institutions must collaborate with these innovators to integrate the technology into mainstream markets. She called for a balance between entrepreneurship and regulatory compliance to ensure sustainable adoption.

  1. Blockchain as an Upgrade, Not a Disruption

Rather than viewing blockchain as a disruptive force that will upend financial systems, Osborne framed it as an upgrade to existing infrastructures. She drew parallels to the evolution of the stock exchange, which transitioned from chaotic trading floors to digital transactions. Blockchain, she argued, will similarly streamline and automate financial processes without replacing the fundamental structures of finance.

  1. Cryptocurrency’s Reputation and the Need for Regulation

Osborne acknowledged that cryptocurrencies have often been associated with scandals, hacks, and market crashes, such as the collapse of FTX and the volatility of Bitcoin. However, she stressed that these incidents stemmed from fraud and poor governance, not inherent flaws in blockchain technology itself. She pointed to institutional adoption and increasing regulation as factors that will help legitimize digital assets.

She also discussed Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), noting that while they could provide efficiency in financial transactions, privacy concerns and government control over personal transactions remain key points of contention.

  1. The Rise of Tokenized Assets and Institutional Adoption

One of the most significant shifts in finance is the tokenization of real-world assets, including stocks, bonds, and real estate. Osborne cited leading financial institutions such as JP Morgan, BlackRock, and Franklin Templeton, which are already leveraging blockchain for tokenized funds. She highlighted that tokenized treasuries are gaining traction, particularly as global investors seek easier access to U.S. financial markets.

She also emphasized that tokenized funds reduce administrative costs, improve transparency, and offer greater liquidity compared to traditional investment structures.

  1. The Great Wealth Transfer and Changing Investor Preferences

Osborne noted that millennials and Gen Z will soon hold more than half of the world’s wealth, and these generations are digitally native. According to her, younger investors are more likely to seek alternative assets and rely on social media influencers for financial advice. As a result, institutions must adapt to new investment behaviors, including the growing demand for digital assets and decentralized finance (DeFi).

  1. The Role of AI and Quantum Computing in Blockchain

Osborne touched on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into blockchain, predicting that AI will enhance the efficiency of smart contracts, security systems, and financial modeling. However, she also acknowledged concerns regarding quantum computing, which has the potential to break current cryptographic security measures. While the blockchain industry is working on quantum-resistant algorithms, she warned that advancements in quantum computing could pose risks to the financial system in the future.

What’s Next for Blockchain in Finance?

Osborne remains optimistic about blockchain’s future, predicting greater regulatory clarity in 2025 and beyond. She highlighted that many financial institutions have already embraced blockchain for back-office operations, but the next frontier is front-office adoption, where blockchain will drive new revenue streams.

She also pointed to Visa and Mastercard, which are actively incorporating blockchain technology to stay competitive in the evolving payments landscape. Companies like Circle, which manages the USDC Stablecoin, are also playing a crucial role in enabling blockchain-based payments.

Conclusion: A Call for Collaboration

Osborne ended her talk by encouraging finance professionals to embrace blockchain, not as a threat, but as an opportunity to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve security. She emphasized that finance isn’t broken but can be upgraded, and blockchain technology will play a central role in that transformation.

Attendees were invited to explore her book From Hoodies to Suits for a deeper dive into the convergence of blockchain and traditional finance.

Video Presentation 

Jon Zagrodzky, “State of the Town,” Feb 26, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

DMA member and Darien First Selectman Jon Zagrodzky will provide an update on Darien town government including overall strategy, Great Island, new commercial developments, flooding investments and the FY 2025 budget process. Jon plans to leave ample time for Q&A and promises that no topic is off limits!

Jon E. Zagrodzky serves as First Selectman for the Town of Darien, having been elected to this position on November 7, 2023. Jon’s prior Town roles include: member of the Board of Selectmen; member and chairman of the Board of Finance; member of the Town and Police Pension Board; member of the Public Works Garage and Ox Ridge School Building Committee Board; member and president of the Darien Historical Society.

Until his December 2023 retirement, Jon served as COO and CFO at Rhône Group, LLC, a middle market private equity firm, where he was responsible for finance, operations, human resources, administration, information technology, and business planning. Prior to Rhône, he was CAO and Chief Compliance Officer at Oak Hill Capital Management and before that spent 16 years at McKinsey & Company.

Jon earned a BA in Economics and Romance Languages from Washington & Lee University and an MBA from The Wharton School.  He is a commercial pilot and owns a Piper Seneca III. Jon moved to Darien with his wife, Sara, and their two children, Maggie and Jack, in 2005.

Summary

Ric Grefé reports that Darien First Selectman John Zagrodzky provided an update on the state of the town, covering topics such as infrastructure, real estate, public safety, and the highly anticipated development of Great Island.

Town Strengths and Growth
Zagrodzky highlighted Darien’s strong public schools, praising the quality of education, facilities, and student engagement. He noted that the town’s property values remain high, with a 20% increase in average home prices despite a low housing inventory.

New commercial developments, including Corbin District, Heights Crossing, and Darien Commons, are revitalizing the town and attracting businesses. The First Selectman urged residents to support local restaurants and shops, emphasizing the importance of keeping Darien’s economy thriving.

Challenges: Infrastructure, Crime, and Traffic
Zagrodzky addressed concerns over aging infrastructure, including sewer system failures and ongoing flooding issues. He acknowledged that major storms could overwhelm the town’s flood control measures, urging residents to take proactive steps to protect their homes. The challenge for the town is that as much attention as they pay to the flooding issues, the combination of geology, old infrastructure, and the overwhelming cost and disruption of a comprehensive redesign of the infrastructure makes comprehensive change unrealistic.

Crime remains a challenge, with unlocked car thefts continuing to be a problem. “Every stolen car had the keys left inside,” he stated, calling on residents to take basic precautions.

Traffic congestion, particularly on Post Road and near new developments, remains an issue. While improvements such as better signal timing and road redesigns are in progress, the First Selectman acknowledged that traffic will remain a long-term concern due to regional development in Norwalk and Stamford.

Great Island and Town Debt
Zagrodzky reassured residents that a master plan is being developed through public workshops, balancing conservation with community use. However, a legal dispute over tree removal on an access road has delayed progress.

Darien’s town debt has reached approximately $192 million, largely due to school renovations and the Great Island acquisition. Future borrowing, including possible renovations to Middlesex Middle School, could push this figure higher. Despite these financial commitments, the town’s AAA credit rating remains intact.

Looking Ahead
Upcoming initiatives include sidewalk expansions, a modernized parking system, park improvements, and stricter enforcement of blight regulations. The town is also exploring better town service payment options for residents, such as digital transactions.

Zagrodzky ended on a positive note, praising Darien’s sense of community and volunteer spirit. “This is the best place to live, and I want everyone to feel the same way,” he said. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the town newsletter and social media updates.

Video of Presentation

Presentation Slides: SOTT 2025 DMA

Thomas Graham, “From the Ukraine Conflict to a Secure Europe,” Feb 19, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

Thomas E. Graham is a distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. His book, Getting Russia Right, was published in September, 2023.  He is a cofounder of Yale University’s Russian, East European, and Eurasian studies program and sits on its faculty steering committee. He is also a research fellow at Yale’s MacMillan Center. He has been a lecturer in global affairs and political science since 2011, teaching courses on U.S.-Russian relations and Russian foreign policy, as well as cybersecurity and counterterrorism. Graham was special assistant to the president and senior director for Russia on the National Security Council staff from 2004 to 2007, during which he managed a White House-Kremlin strategic dialogue. He was director for Russian affairs on the staff from 2002 to 2004.

Graham served as an advisor to Kissinger Associates from 2008 to 2021. He was a Foreign Service officer for fourteen years.  His assignments included two tours of duty at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow in the late Soviet period and in the middle of the 1990s, during which he served as head of the political internal unit and acting political counselor. Between tours in Moscow, he worked on Russian and Soviet affairs on the policy planning staff at the U.S. Department of State and as a policy assistant in the office of the undersecretary of defense for policy.

Graham holds a BA in Russian studies from Yale University and an MA in history and a PhD in political science from Harvard University.

Summary

Thomas Graham provided a comprehensive analysis of the Russia-Ukraine war, focusing on its origins, the antagonists’ motivations, and potential outcomes. He began by highlighting Russia’s broader geopolitical objectives, arguing that the war is not just about Ukraine but about revising the post-Cold War European security order. Russia sees NATO and EU expansion as threats, viewing Ukraine as an essential buffer zone and a key part of its historical and economic identity.

From the Ukrainian perspective, the war is an existential struggle for national survival. Ukraine has long resisted Russian efforts to integrate it into Moscow-led initiatives, striving for independence and Western integration. Graham emphasized that the war has turned into a prolonged battle of attrition, contrary to Putin’s expectations of a swift victory. Heavy casualties on both sides raise concerns about Ukraine’s long-term ability to sustain the fight, given its smaller population.

The discussion moved toward the role of the United States, whose primary interest in the conflict has been to maintain European stability and uphold post-World War II norms against territorial conquest. While U.S. support has been vital to Ukraine, the war has generated internal debates over continued aid and NATO’s future role. The speaker warned that declining U.S. commitment could shift the burden onto Europe, which may struggle to provide the necessary military and financial backing.

Regarding negotiations, Graham is skeptical that meaningful talks can succeed under current conditions. Putin remains firm on his maximalist demands, including Ukraine’s demilitarization and recognition of annexed territories. Meanwhile, Western reluctance to offer full NATO membership to Ukraine complicates security guarantees for Kyiv. The speaker suggested that a sustainable settlement would require continued Western support, pressure on Russia, and strong European coordination.

The conversation also touched on broader geopolitical shifts, including Europe’s increasing defense readiness and the strategic consequences for Russia. While Putin may gain Ukrainian territory, his actions have driven Sweden and Finland into NATO, fortified European security efforts, and deepened Russia’s dependence on China. The speaker noted some internal Russian discontent with the war but doubted that it will coalesce into a political challenge against Putin in the near term.

In conclusion, Graham underscored the high stakes of the conflict and the uncertain path ahead. While Ukraine continues to resist, its long-term success depends on Western unity, strategic planning, and the ability to counter Russia’s attritional warfare.

Video Presentation

Ambassador John J. Sullivan, “Midnight in Moscow: how U.S.-Russia relations hit their nadir—and a playbook for our unfolding confrontation,” Feb 12, 2025

June 14, 2024 /

John Sullivan, our American ambassador who was on the diplomatic front lines when Putin invaded Ukraine,  will share a behind-the-scenes account of how U.S.-Russia relations hit their nadir

For weeks before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, John J. Sullivan, the U.S. ambassador in Moscow, was warning that it would happen. When troops finally crossed the border, he was woken in the middle of the night with a prearranged code. The signal was even more bracing than the February cold: it meant that Sullivan needed to collect his bodyguards and get to the embassy as soon as possible. The war had begun, and the world would never be the same.

In Midnight in Moscow, Sullivan leads readers into the offices of the U.S. embassy and the halls of the Kremlin during this climactic period—among the most dangerous since World War II. He shows how the Putin regime repeatedly lied about its intentions to invade Ukraine in the weeks leading up to the attack, while also devoting huge numbers of personnel and vast resources to undermining the U.S. diplomatic mission in Russia. And he explains how, when Putin ultimately gave the order to launch a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, he proved that Russia was not just at war with its neighbor: it was also at war, in a very real sense, with the United States, and with everything that it represents. But while Putin decided how this conflict started, its ending will be shaped by us.

With his unique perspective on a pivotal moment in world history, Sullivanshows how our relationship with Russia has deteriorated, where it’s headed, and how far we should be prepared to go in standing up to the menace in Moscow.

Ambassador John J. Sullivan, former US deputy secretary of state and former US ambassador to the Russian Federation, is a partner in Mayer Brown’s Washington DC and New York offices and co-lead of the firm’s National Security practice. He is also a Distinguished Scholar at the School of Foreign Service of Georgetown University and a Distinguished Fellow at the School of International and Public Affairs of Columbia University. He serves as a Contributor to CBS News, is quoted frequently in international media as a leading authority on foreign affairs, and has written a book on his experiences as ambassador, Midnight in Moscow, which is forthcoming from Little, Brown and Company in August 2024.

Prior to his post in Moscow, Ambassador Sullivan served for almost three years as the deputy secretary of state after a bipartisan 94-6 confirmation vote in the US Senate in 2017. In this senior role, he was responsible for both the formulation and conduct of US foreign policy and the management of the State Department’s global operations. He was the acting secretary of state in March-April 2018, among the longest tenures in history of anyone in that position.

Previously, Ambassador Sullivan held senior positions in the Departments of Justice, Defense, and Commerce in two prior administrations. Until January 2009, he was the deputy secretary of commerce under President George W. Bush, following his service from 2005 to 2007 as the general counsel of the department. In President Bush’s first term, he was appointed deputy general counsel of the Defense Department by Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. In the George H.W. Bush Administration, Ambassador Sullivan was counselor to Assistant Attorney General J. Michael Luttig in the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel.

Ambassador Sullivan received his bachelor’s degree from Brown University and his law degree from the Columbia University School of Law, where he was Book Reviews Editor of the Columbia Law Review. He was a law clerk for Associate Justice David H. Souter of the Supreme Court of the United States, and for Judge John Minor Wisdom of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.

Arranged by Eloy Nava

Summary

Ambassador John J. Sullivan, who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Russia from 2019 to 2022, is the author of Midnight in Moscow, providing an insider’s view of U.S. – Russia relations leading up to and during the invasion of Ukraine. He detailed how Putin’s regime misled the world about its intentions before launching the full-scale war in February 2022 and discussed the broader geopolitical implications.

Sullivan highlighted that Putin sees the U.S. as an enemy and considers Ukraine an essential part of Russia’s historical and cultural identity. He argued that Putin’s messianic goal is to restore Russian sovereignty over the historic Russkiy Mir or Russian World of imperial times (which included Ukraine and Belarus) rather than merely to annex land. Sullivan emphasized that the failure of Russia’s intelligence agency, the FSB, to properly assess Ukraine’s resistance and prepare the battlefield led to the invasion’s disastrous execution.

Throughout the discussion, Sullivan warned that Putin will never willingly compromise or give up on his war aims. He asserted that Western sanctions, particularly on Russia’s energy sector, are having an economic impact but need to be enforced more aggressively. He also emphasized that withdrawing of U.S. support for Ukraine would embolden not just Russia but also adversaries like China, Iran, and North Korea.

Regarding the future, Sullivan dismissed the likelihood of Putin using nuclear weapons unless he faced an existential threat, such as a military march toward Moscow. He concluded that the only viable path to forcing Russia into a ceasefire is continued pressure through economic and military means.

The session ended with a Q&A, where Sullivan addressed concerns about Putin’s health, the role of energy policy in restraining Russia, and the broader consequences of a prolonged war. He encouraged continued U.S. engagement, warning that failing to support Ukraine would have dire consequences of a global geopolitical nature as Russia and other nations would view U.S. security assurances as unreliable.

Video Presentation

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