NEWS & EVENTS

Global Connections Start Here With Our New York State Capital Region Community

EVENTS CALENDAR

The heart of ICCR’s outreach efforts. Our calendar page allows users to see all the events on the ICCR schedule and have the option to filter and search those calendar entries. View upcoming engagement opportunities or read about archived events.

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NEWS releases

International Center of the Capital Region and University at Albany to Host “2026 Engage America: A Century of American Public Diplomacy” on October 6

By Beth Wales • May 14, 2026
This special public program will explore the human side of American diplomacy and the critical role diplomats play in advancing U.S. interests, supporting American citizens abroad, strengthening global partnerships, and promoting international understanding. The evening will feature a presentation by retired U.S. Foreign Service Officer Tom Selinger titled Portraits of American Diplomacy. Drawing from the oral history archives of the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training (ADST), Selinger will share compelling stories of American diplomats — including individuals from New York — who have: rescued Americans during international crises, opened global markets for American businesses and agriculture, strengthened alliances that protect collective security, and advanced democratic values around the world.

New Season of the 518 Ambassador Podcast

How does a college intern become a nonprofit board member?

In this episode of the ICCR Ambassador 518 Podcast, host David Peprah sits down with Renato Guida to discuss his journey with the International Center of the Capital Region (ICCR), from his early experience as an intern to his current leadership role on ICCR’s Board of Directors.

Renato reflects on the mentorship, opportunities, and hands-on experiences that shaped his personal and professional growth. He shares how ICCR helped him build confidence, develop leadership skills, pursue his goals, and give back to the organization that supported his journey.



In this episode, listeners will hear about Renato’s experience as an ICCR intern, his transition into board leadership, the mentors who influenced his path, and the lessons he has learned about service, professional growth, and community leadership.


Note: Since this podcast was recorded, Renato has graduated from Hudson Valley Community College. Congratulations, Renato!


The ICCR Ambassador 518 Podcast, hosted by David Peprah, features conversations with volunteers, interns, board members, and community partners who help ICCR connect the Greater Capital Region to the world through citizen diplomacy and international exchange.

Past 518 Ambassador Podcast ePISODES

The 518 Ambassador Podcast continues to highlight global stories and local connections throughout New York’s Capital Region. Before launching the current season, ICCR featured conversations with distinguished guests whose experiences offered valuable perspectives on international engagement and cultural understanding.


In previous seasons, Executive Director Beth Wales spoke with Jim Ketterer, Senior Fellow at the Bard Center for Civic Engagement and faculty member in the Bard MA in Global Studies program. Drawing from his extensive work across the Middle East and North Africa, Jim shared lessons on diplomacy, leadership, cultural exchange, and the importance of stepping beyond one’s comfort zone.


These earlier episodes remain available as part of the podcast archive and continue to reflect ICCR’s mission of fostering global awareness, meaningful dialogue, and stronger connections between our local community and the wider world.