2026 Council Leadership Meeting

The 2026 CLM was hosted by the World Affairs Council – Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky, opening with a public reception on June 8 at TQL Stadium, home of FC Cincinnati. The evening featured a fireside chat with Jeff Berding, President and Co-CEO of FC Cincinnati and a member of the FIFA World Soccer Committee, who discussed how sports and global talent networks drive economic growth and international diplomacy in the region.

Sessions throughout the meeting covered storytelling and communication skills, using AI to boost nonprofit efficiency, and a networking session with local arts nonprofit Art Equals. A “Give to Gain” lunch made space for mentorship and cross-council connection.

The 2026 CLM reflected what these gatherings are meant to do: give Council leaders room to reflect, problem-solve, and build lasting relationships with colleagues from across the country. Attendees left with new skills, fresh ideas, and expanded networks to carry back to their own Councils — strengthening the work of World Affairs Councils across the nation.