Ambassador-in-Residence Terry Branstad will host the second annual U.S.-China Symposium at Drake University on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023, at Levitt Hall. This event is free and open to the public.

The symposium is an initiative of the Ambassador-in-Residence program at Drake. Terry Branstad, former U.S. Ambassador to China and Governor of Iowa, is currently serving as the Ambassador-in-Residence at Drake. The Ambassador will host an annual symposium to convene experienced professionals, academics, and other experts to speak on various topics related to China and U.S.-China relations, with the aim to provide a platform for multiple viewpoints and opportunities for candid discussion.

The 2023 symposium will include sessions on national security and defense with Lieutenant General Larry Nicholson (Retired), advisor to the Joint Chiefs of Staff; trade and business with Greyson Mann, Government Affairs Manager at the U.S.-China Business Council; and international relations with Bobby Richey, former Deputy Chief of Mission and Agriculture Attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing.

Students, faculty, staff, and community members interested in China/East Asia, U.S. foreign affairs, international relations, and international business are encouraged to attend.

Learn more and register for the symposium at drake.edu/branstad.

Contact the Ambassador

In his role as the Ambassador-in-Residence, Ambassador Branstad is also available during the academic year to meet with faculty, staff, and students individually, and to speak to classes and student organizations. This is an exceptional opportunity to hear the first-hand experiences of someone who has helped shape Iowa and U.S. history.

Direct questions and inquiries to ambassador@drake.edu.

— Hannah Sappenfield, Global Engagement