Global Speaker Series

Be Part of Key Discussions!

The Denver Council on Foreign Relations’ Global Speaker Series offers an unparalleled opportunity to deepen your understanding of the complex world around us. Far more than just a meal, these exclusive events provide a unique platform to engage directly with leading experts, diplomats, and thought leaders on a diverse array of critical global issues. 

From the intricacies of international affairs and foreign policy shaping geopolitical landscapes, to the transformative impact of cutting-edge emerging technologies, and a host of other pressing topics, attendees gain incisive, actionable insights. These dinners are designed for those eager to move beyond headlines, fostering informed dialogue and equipping you with the knowledge needed to navigate and understand our interconnected world.

The Global Speaker Series is a powerful dinner event held once a month from September to May, with a break for the holidays. Eight Global Speaker Dinners can be attended in full (with a diplomat membership) or experienced a la carte (with a general membership). 

The format includes dinner at a central Denver location followed by single or dual keynotes, presentations, fireside chats, and more! A dynamic Q&A is 30 minutes and is highly encouraged.

Central Themes of the Series

Emerging Technologies and Energy

Looks at how disruptive tech & sustainability initiatives are shaping our world, from AI and robotics to smart grids and solar-powered drones. We aim to look ahead to see how these innovations will shape everything from national policy to daily life.

Global Risks and Alliances

Offers an in-depth look at regional risks and the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that define modern geopolitics. By examining key partnerships—including those of the United States—we work provide a clear, nuanced understanding of what's at stake in a changing world.

Foreign Policy Thought Leaders

Sometimes, the best insights come directly from the source. Our "Foreign Policy Thought Leaders" component provides a platform for leading experts to share their groundbreaking work, unique perspectives, and influence on global affairs.

General Info

Dress Code: Events are business casual (no jeans or hats please). 

Parking: Free unless otherwise noted. 

Bar: Unless otherwise stated, please bring cash to these events to purchase a drink ticket (for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks). 

Non-Member Attendees

DCFR welcomes non-members to two of our dinners! We aim to inform as many people as we can about the state of the world, and we feel that it is a great way to experience these events without having to commit fully upfront. We ask that after two dinners, you join one of our membership tiers to support our community.

High school students welcome!

High School students do not need to have a DCFR membership to attend our events. We simply ask that anyone under the age of 18 years old be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Alcohol is served at most of our events and cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 21. 

Are you a high school student interested in coming to one of our events? Reach out to [email protected] so that we can get you and your parent or guardian registered. 

Interested in other opportunities for high schools? Check out our Globally Engaged Student page!

Policies

*All policies will apply to guests and non-members

**No cell phone use during events except to take photos

Chatham House Rules 

Unless otherwise stated, Chatham House Rules apply at DCFR dinners (this is a principle used in meetings and discussions to encourage open and candid dialogue where participants can freely use information shared during the meeting, but cannot reveal the identity of the speaker(s)).

Registration

The registration deadline is two days before the event. Online registration will close at that time unless otherwise noted. Email requests for registration after that time will not be accepted. This is to support both our partners and our staff. 

Please note: When you register for this event, your email address will be added to our list to receive event updates and our newsletters from the Denver Council on Foreign Relations. We value your inbox, and you’re always free to unsubscribe from these communications at any time via the link in our emails. Additionally, by attending, you grant the Denver Council on Foreign Relations permission to use any photographs or video recordings taken during the event for our marketing and promotional efforts related to DCFR, our events, and our programs.

Paying for Events

All registrants will need to have paid for their dinner before the start of the event. Events can be paid for by credit card online as you register or at the door via credit card, check, or cash. 

Cancellations

You are able to cancel your dinner reservation two days prior to the event. You are able to do this online by logging in with the login information created at the time of registration or by sending an email to [email protected]. If you do not cancel, then you will be charged the full amount without a refund.

DCFR Canceled Events

DCFR works very hard to make sure events will progress as planned, but we recognize that things do come up. In case we have to reschedule or cancel an event, DCFR will send out a notice with options to everyone who has registered detailing how their payments can be handled. If we do not hear from you with ten business days, we will consider your ticket as a donation to the organization and a thank you letter will be sent to the email on file.