Black Professionals in International Affairs upcoming events

[BPIA PARTNER EVENT] Ambassador Ruth A. Davis Memorial Lecture - Leadership Lessons for the Future (05/27/2026)

Wed, 27 May 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Ambassador Ruth A. Davis Memorial Lecture

Inaugural Speaker: Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield

Join BPIA at the inaugural Ambassador Ruth A. Davis Memorial Series Lecture, Leadership Lessons for the Future with Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, in collaboration with the Association of Black American Ambassadors (ABAA), Phoenix Rising, the Elliott School of International Affairs, Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security, and Conflict Transformation and endorsement by the American Academy of Diplomacy.

This special gathering will take place on Wednesday, May 27, from 5:00-7:00 PM ET at the City View Room, Elliott School of International Affairs (1957 E St NW, Washington, DC 20052).

This lecture series honors the enduring legacy of Ambassador Ruth A. Davis as a trailblazing diplomat and advocate for inclusive leadership in international affairs. As the inaugural speaker, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will share insights on today’s evolving foreign policy landscape and the opportunities it presents for emerging leaders in global affairs. A reception will follow the event.

This is a partner event approved by BPIA and shared with our community for awareness and participation.

Venue: City View Room, 1957 E St NW, 7th Floor.

Date & Time: Wednesday, May 27, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 PM ET

External registration Required (Link Here)

BPIA June First Friday: Caribbean Heritage Month Celebration (06/05/2026)

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Register Here

BPIA June First Friday

Foreign Affairs Social Mixer

Caribbean Heritage Month Celebration

Join BPIA for our June First Friday — in collaboration with the BPIA Capitol Hill and Professional Development Committee — for an evening celebrating Caribbean Heritage Month through culture, community, and international engagement. This special gathering will bring together professionals, students, diplomats, and emerging leaders to recognize the rich contributions of Caribbean communities across diplomacy, policy, global development, business, and international affairs.

Through conversation and connection, the evening will highlight the Caribbean’s enduring influence on global leadership, innovation, advocacy, and cultural exchange. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with peers and professionals from diverse backgrounds while building meaningful relationships across sectors and experiences.

This evening brings together members, partners, and rising professionals for a vibrant and welcoming environment to strengthen community, celebrate shared heritage, and continue expanding BPIA’s growing international network.

This event is open to the public (21+).

Event Highlights:

Networking & Social Mixer: Connect with professionals in foreign affairs and related fields
Inspiring Conversations: Insights on leadership, advocacy, and navigating global challenges
Celebratory Atmosphere: Music, drinks, and a vibrant community
Venue: The Park at 14th – 920 14th St NW, Washington, DC
⏰ Date & Time: Friday, June 5, 2026 | 6-8 PM EDT

BPIA Powell Institute Colloquium: June ft. Johnny Sawyer "Communication Under Pressure" (06/06/2026)

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Module 3 Continued: Communication Under Pressure ft. Johnny Sawyer

Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 9:00am - 10:00am EDT via google meets

Join us for a discussion on communication under pressure exploring the power of listening as influence, credibility, and cross-cultural communication. Current events lens: Global summits, crisis communication, institutional messaging.

This event is open to Powell cohort and active BPIA members.

Speaker Bio

Mr. Johnny Sawyer is a BPIA Advisory Council member, veteran U.S. Army officer and long-time Defense Intelligence Agency leader who served as DIA’s Chief of Staff overseeing operations, analysis, and strategic planning before founding The Sawyer Group to provide defense and intelligence consulting.

The Situation Room: The Grand Negotiation: BPIA's 2nd Annual Virtual Interactive Diplomatic Simulation (06/27/2026)

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

The Situation Room: The Grand Negotiation

A Virtual Interactive Diplomatic Simulation

Join the Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) for an exclusive high-stakes diplomatic simulation where participants will step into the roles of global leaders, policymakers, and negotiators to tackle critical international challenges.

Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM EDT
Location: Virtual (via zoom) - https://us06web.zoom.us/j/9794618227

PRE-READ ATTENDEE POWERPOINT DECK HERE

What to Expect:

✅ Navigate complex global issues through interactive simulations

✅ Develop strategic decision-making skills in international affairs

✅ Engage in real-time diplomatic problem-solving

Simulations Include:

Strait of Orion Crisis – Shape foreign policy strategies

Exploring Diplomatic Decision-Making Models – Understand the art of negotiation

Critical Minerals Dilemma (U.S.-Africa) – Manage a high-tension geopolitical conflict

The event will be facilitated by Alexandria Maloney, BPIA President, and will offer participants a unique opportunity to enhance their diplomacy, negotiation, and leadership skills in a fast-paced environment.

Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in global diplomacy and shape the future of international relations!

BPIA Skate Day: A 1990's Hip-Hop Skate Social (07/11/2026)

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 18:00:00 GMT

BPIA Skate Day

A 1990’s Hip-Hop Skate Social

Join BPIA for BPIA Skate Day—a high-energy 1990's hip-hop skate social designed to bring our community together through music, movement, and connection. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or stepping onto the rink for the first time, this family-friendly afternoon is all about wellness, nostalgia, and good vibes.

This event is open to BPIA members and friends, and all skill levels are welcome. Entry is at the attendee’s expense. We look forward to rolling into summer with you!

What to Expect:

90s hip-hop soundtrack
Casual skating and socializing
Wellness through movement
Open to all skill levels
Skates are available for rent on-site.

RSVP: https://iabpia.org/event-6576446