Great Decisions
Great Decision Program 2026
Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The program involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book, watching the DVD and meeting in a Discussion Group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. The program is developed by the nonpartisan Foreign Policy Association located in New York, which was founded in 1918 and its branches were the forerunners of the independent World Affairs Councils of the 1950s. It serves as a catalyst for developing awareness, understanding, and informed opinion on U.S. foreign policy and global issues. Through its balanced, nonpartisan programs and publications, the FPA encourages citizens to participate in the foreign policy process. In 1954, the Great Decisions program was launched in Oregon and has since spread all over the country and beyond. It has now become the largest nonpartisan public education program on international affairs in the world.
Particulars about the program:
Location: Lincoln Land Community College Medical Center Campus, 130 W Mason St, Springfield, IL 62702.
This location has well lit parking and an LLCC police officer on duty.
Dates: March 25, April 1, April 8, April 15, April 22, April 29
Day: Wednesday Evenings
Time: 7:00 – 9:00PM.
Program Registration: The program is free and open to the public, however, registration and payment of $35 is required to receive a copy of the Great Decisions 2025 Briefing Book.
Register and pay online: Great Decision Registration Form
Learning Requirements include: Reading of 2026 Great Decisions Briefing Book, listening to
the DVD presentation and lecture, and participation in classroom discussion led by distinguished
scholars. A formal certificate from WACCI will be awarded to registered individuals upon successful
completion of the program.
Contact: For further information regarding the program, contact Kalith Smith at 575-637-4068 or kalithsmith@gmail.com or Chris McDonald at chris.mcdonald@llcc.edu.
Topics in 2026:
March 25 America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy
Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy
Kickoff event with high school students invited. Panel discussion.
Panel: Sam Barbour, Brandon Bolte, Adriana Crocker, Brandon Derman, Chris McDonald, Roy Wohrle
April 01 U.S.-China Relations–Roy Wehrle
April 08 Ukraine and the Future of European Security-Chris McDonald
April 15 U.S. Engagement of Africa-Brandon Bolte
April 22 Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order-Brandon Derman
April 29 The Future of Human Rights and International Law-Adriana Crocker
- America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy — Panel discussion
Trump’s return has marked a break from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership, embracing an “America First” approach. This chapter explores the risks of isolation and diminished influence in relation to Trump 2.0 foreign policy.
By G. John Ikenberry - Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy- Panel discussion
Trump’s aggressive trade and tariff policies have shaken global economic norms. What’s the rationale behind this radical shift in economic policy, and what are the implications for multilateral trade and geopolitics?
By Michael Mastanduno - U.S.-China Relations – ROY WEHRLE
Relations with China remain tense, with tariffs, military modernization, and pressure on Taiwan. Does Trump have a coherent China policy, and will his tariffs on Rare Earth minerals be effective? What are America’s strategic options?
By Oriana Mastro - Ukraine and the Future of European Security – Chris McDonald
With reduced U.S. support for NATO and Ukraine, Europe faces strategic uncertainty. The Trump administration has signaled an intention to reduce its security role in Europe. What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas, and how might Europe respond?
By Thomas Wright - Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order – Brandon Derman
Can multilateralism survive amid shifting global power and rising nationalism? This chapter examines the future of global cooperation across trade, health, and finance.
By Scott Bessent (SUBJECT TO CHANGE) - U.S. Engagement of Africa – Brandon Bolte
Africa’s geopolitical role is growing. What lessons can the U.S. learn from China’s presence there, and how might it strengthen ties, especially with leading nations like Nigeria? What tools of statecraft might the U.S. bring to its engagement with Africa?
By Jendayi E. Frazer - The Future of Human Rights and International Law-Adriana Crocker
As democracy and human rights retreat globally and the U.S. pulls back how can civil society and legal norms remain effective in a divided world? What is the role and force of international law in this era of impunity?
By Jose Enrique Alvarez