Who We Are

Nonpartisan and not-for-profit, the Council is an educational organization which presents multiple perspectives on complex global issues that impact our businesses, communities, and nations. The Council does not take positions on issues, but encourages public discussion of many points of view. The Inland Southern California Council is one of 11 active councils in California and the third oldest, following the World Affairs Council of Northern California (San Francisco) and the Los Angeles World Affairs Council. Almost 100 councils are in the United States, each independent and governed by a local board of directors.

World Affairs Council is the premier forum in the Inland Empire for discussion of national and international subjects. The Council provides a platform for leaders and experts in diplomacy, news, media, business, international trade, the military, arts and culture. Speakers from the United States and other nations around the globe present their ideas and perspectives at the invitation of the Council. Whether you are an expert on foreign affairs, or just want to keep up with current news, the Council offers you an invaluable opportunity to become a more effective citizen, business leader, or educator.

Our History

The Council has a participant base of more than 700 men and women in Riverside and San Bernardino counties and the San Gabriel Valley region. Founded in 1964 by presidents of area colleges and universities as well as business leaders, the Council is a forum for public discourse on matters of international importance. Sponsors are academic institutions, businesses and community leaders throughout inland Southern California.

The World Affairs Council Inland Southern California is proud that the current organization traces its heritage to Frank Miller, founder of the world famous Mission Inn, a national historic landmark hotel. Frank Miller held several international meetings at the hotel and in 1926 established the Institute of World Affairs, at which members gathered once a year to review international events. The World Affairs Council is the successor to that Institute.

Marylin Jacobsen was the President of the World Affairs Council Inland Southern California for about 40 years, retiring in 2014. After such a long history of service, community leaders, Council members and friends, and many others came together to celebrate her life and contribution of the Council to the great Inland Empire. Here is a video summary of the interview with Marylin Jacobsen that was featured at the celebration marking World Affairs Council Inland Southern California's 50th Anniversary: https://vimeo.com/search?q=world+Affairs+Council+inland+southern+california