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

The 518 Ambassador Podcast brings global stories to New York’s Capital Region, connecting our community with inspiring leaders, thinkers, and changemakers who are shaping international dialogue.


In this episode of the ICCR 518 Ambassador Podcast, host David Peprah sits down with Anton Konev, Chief of Staff to Albany City Auditor Sam Fein and ICCR Board Member, for a conversation exploring public service, civic engagement, leadership, and the importance of global perspectives in local communities.


Anton shares insights from his work in municipal government, discusses the role of accountability and public trust in city leadership, and reflects on how international understanding and community engagement can strengthen the Capital Region.


The conversation also highlights Anton’s involvement with the International Center of the Capital Region (ICCR) and the value of citizen diplomacy in connecting local communities to the wider world.

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.