Category: Speaker Announcements (Page 7 of 45)

As Congress and the Supreme Court relegate an increasing number of responsibilities and authorities to the states—the core tenet of federalism—it raises questions about states’ capacity to meet these expectations and whether state constitutions provide sufficient guidance within states for direction of state governments’ permitted roles and obligations toward citizens’ rights. Our state attorney general will share his perspective on how states’ can work together on tasks once considered federal and on how human rights in Connecticut can be protected.

William Tong is the 25th Attorney General to serve Connecticut since the office was established in 1897. He took office on January 9, 2019 as the first Asian American elected at the statewide level, in Connecticut.

Before his election as Attorney General, Tong served for 12 years in Connecticut’s General Assembly representing the 147th District, which includes North Stamford and Darien. Most recently, Tong served as House Chairman of the Judiciary Committee. In this position Tong was responsible for all legislation related to constitutional law, criminal law, civil rights, consumer protection, probate, judicial nominations and the Judicial branch, and major areas of substantive law.

During his service in the legislature, Tong helped lead passage of landmark legislation, including the Connecticut Second Chance Act, Domestic Violence Restraining Order Act, Lost and Stolen Firearms Act, the Act Protecting Homeowner Rights, and the Act Protecting Schoolchildren.

A Connecticut native, Tong grew up in the Hartford area and attended schools in West Hartford. He graduated from Phillips Academy Andover, Brown University and the University of Chicago Law School. Before his election as Attorney General, he practiced law for 18 years as a litigator in both state and federal courts, first at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, in New York City and then for 15 years at Finn Dixon & Herling LLP, in Stamford.

Tong is the oldest of five children, and grew up working side-by-side with his immigrant parents in their family’s Chinese restaurant. He and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Stamford with their three children and too many pets. Elizabeth is Vice President of Tax for North America for Diageo Corporation.

Summary

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong presented an overview of his role, key responsibilities, and major initiatives. He emphasized the state’s sovereignty within the U.S. federal system and his office’s dual mandate: managing Connecticut’s legal affairs and addressing broader social issues such as consumer protection, public health, and corporate accountability.

Key responsibilities:

1. Legal Management: Tong described his role as running Connecticut’s largest law firm, handling litigation, contracts, and regulatory issues for state agencies.
2. Consumer Protection: He highlighted efforts to combat scams, ensure fair business practices, and address pressing social concerns like the opioid crisis, social media addiction, and vaping.

Major initiatives:

1. Opioid Crisis: Tong led Connecticut’s role in securing over $50 billion in state settlements from opioid manufacturers and distributors, emphasizing the addiction industry’s devastating effects on families and communities.
2. Tobacco Litigation: He discussed the legacy of the landmark tobacco settlement, which continues to fund public health initiatives while underscoring the inherent conflicts in relying on revenues from harmful industries.
3. Social Media Accountability: Tong focused on lawsuits against platforms like Meta (Facebook and Instagram) for exploiting user addiction, particularly targeting youth. He explained the harmful impact of algorithms, content moderation failures, and the platforms’ role in promoting mental health issues and misinformation.

Broader themes:

• Federalism: Tong underscored the importance of historic state sovereignty in addressing issues Congress has failed to resolve.
• Corporate Accountability: He critiques industries like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and technology for prioritizing profits over public well-being, advocating for systemic reforms.
• Youth and Technology: He expressed concern over social media’s addictive nature and its role in shaping harmful behaviors among young people, urging stronger state and corporate responsibility.
• Health and Gambling: Tong identified issues with legalized sports betting and vaping, particularly their appeal to young men, as ongoing challenges.

Challenges

• Systemic Inertia: Tong acknowledges that litigation is a slow and inefficient way to create policy, but he views it as necessary in the absence of congressional action.
• Balancing Innovation and Regulation: While advocating for stricter controls, he recognizes concerns about stifling technological and economic growth.

Closing thoughts:

Tong emphasized the role of attorneys general as a bipartisan force addressing large-scale issues Congress cannot, stressing the importance of state action in safeguarding public welfare. He calls for systemic changes to address healthcare costs, corporate influence, and the impact of digital technologies on society.

Video Presentation

The Economist has been published since September 1843 to take part “in a severe contest between intelligence, which presses forward, and an unworthy, timid ignorance obstructing our progress”. It is considered to be neither right nor left, but a blend of the two, drawing on the classical liberalism of the 19th century and coming from what we like to call the radical centre.

One of its features is its annual forecast of issues and events that are likely to influence our experience of the new year, this year “The World Ahead 2025.”

Daniel Franklin is currently serving as the senior Britain editor as well as executive editor of The Economist magazine. He has been executive editor since 2006. From 2003 to 2019 he was editor of The Economist‘s annual publication on the year ahead (at the time called “The World in…”). Daniel published “Megatech: Technology in 2050”  in 2017 and his book on long-term trends, “Megachange: The World in 2050”, published in 2012.

He joined The Economist in 1983 to write about Soviet and East European affairs. As the newspaper’s Europe editor from 1986 to 1992 he covered the great European upheavals, from the collapse of communism to the signing of the Maastricht treaty. After a stint as Britain editor he moved to the United States as Washington bureau chief, covering the first Clinton term. In 1997 he moved back to London as editorial director of the Economist Intelligence Unit. From 2006 to 2010 he was editor-in-chief of Economist.com. For the following four years he was business affairs editor, running the paper’s coverage of business, finance, science and technology. Before the pandemic he was diplomatic editor, shuttling between Washington and London.

Summary

Daniel Franklin, a seasoned journalist and executive editor of The Economist, offered a comprehensive review of global trends, challenges, and opportunities for 2025.  His presentation blended a mix of optimism about technological and economic opportunities with cautionary insights about geopolitical and economic risks, underscoring the complexities of navigating the global landscape in 2025:

Global Uncertainties and Shocks: Franklin emphasized the unpredictability of world events, from natural disasters to geopolitical upheavals, citing examples like the pandemic, regime changes, and economic shocks.

Focus on Donald Trump: A significant portion of the talk was dedicated to the expected impact of a second Trump presidency. Franklin outlined three phases: immediate executive actions on immigration and trade, legislative battles within the first 100 days, and foreign policy initiatives over the first year, including potential resolutions in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Major Global Players:

• China: Facing internal challenges like demographic shifts and external pressures from the U.S., China’s economic policies and technological advancements remain focal points.
• India: Highlighted as a rising power with strong economic growth, benefiting from a young demographic and expanding global influence.
• Europe: Struggles in major economies like France and Germany were contrasted with recoveries in Greece and Portugal. The UK faces post-Brexit challenges.
• Russia and Ukraine: The ongoing conflict and its implications for global geopolitics and energy markets were discussed, alongside Putin’s vulnerabilities.

Technology and AI: The role of artificial intelligence in reshaping industries. Franklin noted significant investments in AI but highlighted its slow integration into corporate processes.

Economic Concerns:

• Inflationary pressures and the risks of growing government deficits.
• Potential market corrections and their implications for global economies.

Media Landscape: Franklin discussed the challenges facing traditional media, emphasizing the transition to digital formats, the role of AI in content creation, and the importance of maintaining journalistic integrity in a landscape vulnerable to misinformation.

Global Trends and Innovations: He highlighted innovations in green technology, shifts in global trade routes due to geopolitical tensions, and cultural trends, such as Japan’s rising tourism appeal and the role of major global events like Expo 2025 in Osaka.

Audience Questions: The Q&A delved into:

• U.S. – China trade relations.
• The future of nuclear deterrence.
• The sustainability of media organizations like the Washington Post.
• Britain’s post-Brexit positioning and its relationship with Europe and the U.S.

Video Presentation 

Archaeological investigations throughout the northeastern United States have shown that the region has been occupied by Native Americans since the end of the Ice Age. In Fairfield County, archaeological digs have yielded evidence of this long tenure by these first occupants. Much of this evidence has been found by both professional and avocational archaeologists working in the area. This presentation will discuss the current state of our knowledge about the region’s first peoples and their cultural and technological adaptations to the changing natural environment of the Northeast. Artifacts from local sites investigated by students from the Norwalk Community College Archaeology Certificate Program will also be available for inspection. Attendees are encouraged to bring any Native American artifacts they have found in the area for identification.

Ernest A. Wiegand has been a professor of archaeology at Norwalk Community College since 1975, when the archaeology certificate program was designed to make archaeology accessible for the avocational archaeologist. He received a Master’s degree in anthropology from Hunter College and has also been active with the Archaeological Society of Connecticut as well as performing many compliance-driven archaeological and historical studies in Fairfield County Connecticut and Westchester County New York.

Summary
Professor Ernest Wiegand provided a comprehensive overview of the Fairfield County’s archaeological history from the Paleo-Indian period to early European contact.

Paleo-Indian Period (12000-8000 BC)
The earliest human occupation in Connecticut dates back to around 13,000-14,000 years ago, following the retreat of glaciers. During this time, the environment was significantly different, with the shoreline much further out and now-extinct megafauna like mammoths and mastodons roaming the area. The Paleo-Indian people used distinctive fluted projectile points known as Clovis points for hunting.

Notable Paleo-Indian sites in Connecticut include:

• The Templeton site in Washington Depot
• A recently discovered site along the Farmington River
• The Allen Meadow site in Wilton

These sites provide valuable insights into the earliest human inhabitants of the region, their tools, and their way of life.

Archaic Period (8000-1000 BC)
Following the Paleo-Indian period , the Archaic period saw significant environmental changes, including the establishment of modern flora and fauna. Key developments during this time included:

• The transition to a deciduous forest ecosystem
• The rise of white-tailed deer as the primary game animal
• The use of spear-throwers for hunting
• The development of ground stone tools

Archaic period sites are more numerous and diverse, reflecting a more settled lifestyle and adaptation to local environments.

Woodland Period (1000 BC – 1540 AD)
The Woodland period is marked by several important innovations:

• The introduction of pottery around 1,000 BC
• The adoption of bow and arrow technology around 500 AD
• The beginnings of agriculture, particularly corn cultivation
• The establishment of more permanent settlements

During this period, there’s evidence of increased social complexity and the first signs of conflict between Native American groups.

Contact Period (Early 1600s)
The arrival of European explorers and settlers in the early 17th century marked the beginning of the Contact period. This era saw significant changes in Native American life, including:

• The introduction of European trade goods
• Devastating epidemics that decimated Native populations
• Increased conflict, such as the Pequot War

Archaeological evidence from this period is relatively rare but provides valuable insights into the early interactions between Native Americans and Europeans.

Archaeological Techniques and Challenges
The lecture highlighted several important aspects of archaeological practice:

• The use of various dating techniques, including radiocarbon dating and relative dating based on artifact typology
• The importance of context in interpreting archaeological finds
• The challenges of preservation in New England’s acidic soils
• The use of modern technologies like ground-penetrating radar and LIDAR in archaeological research

Threats to Archaeological Sites
The lecture also addressed the ongoing threats to archaeological sites, primarily from development. Key points include:

• The irreplaceable nature of archaeological sites and the information they contain
• The importance of conducting archaeological surveys before development projects
• The role of state and local regulations in protecting archaeological resources
• The need for collaboration between archaeologists, developers, and local communities

Community Involvement and Education
Professor Wiegand emphasized the importance of community involvement in archaeology, highlighting:

• The contributions of avocational archaeologists to local research
• The archaeology program at Norwalk Community College, which provides hands-on experience for students
• The value of public education and outreach in preserving archaeological resources

Conclusion
The lecture underscores the rich archaeological heritage of Connecticut and the ongoing efforts to study and preserve it. It emphasizes the importance of archaeology in understanding the region’s long human history and the need for continued research and protection of archaeological sites. Professor Wiegand concluded with a call for increased awareness and cooperation in preserving archaeological resources, recognizing that once these sites are destroyed, a unique page of history is lost forever. The lecturer encouraged audience members to report any potential archaeological finds and to support local efforts in archaeological research and preservation.

Professor Wiegand also offered to evaluate findings of DMA members that may have archeological significance. Simply contact him to arrange an appointment and bring your artifacts.

Video Presentation 

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