About Us : History/Mission
The World Affairs Council of Maine celebrates its 30th anniversary as the state’s oldest and largest non-profit public membership organization dedicated to public education in international affairs. From origins in 1962 hosting United Nations diplomats and correspondents, the Council was founded in 1977 to promote understanding of world events and issues, foreign policy and international trade, and other countries and cultures. Its annual series of speakers and events has increasingly engaged the business and education communities, as well as other groups and organizations involved in Maine’s expanding global activities and interests. The Council’s offices and conference room are located on the Portland campus of the University of Southern Maine, which has hosted the Council since 1988.