Carnegie Mellon University's Deeper Conversation initiative presents the Spring 2025 series: Role of Government in Society

We have been invited to attend the spring 2025 Deeper Conversations series, focusing on the role of government in society. These discussions are central to CMU’s mission as they foster dialogue around some of the most complex challenges facing society.

This semester, they will examine the historical evolution of the government’s role in American life; its influence on funding, shaping and disseminating knowledge; and the evolving impact of soft power on global stability.

They invite Osher at CMU members to engage with CMU faculty experts and thought leaders as we explore these critical topics, and we have included details of three forthcoming events below. Be sure to visit the Deeper Conversations webpage for updates on upcoming events and courses related to ongoing societal challenges.

Note: These are closed events for CMU faculty, staff, students, alumni, Osher at CMU members, and undergraduate parents, and registration is required.

If you have any questions, please contact CMUevents@andrew.cmu.edu.

Upcoming Events

America's Role in the World
Thursday, April 17
4-5:30 p.m. ET
Simmons Auditorium, Tepper School of Business

Click Here to Register for April 17

Throughout the last century, the United States has played a pivotal role in shaping international affairs, leveraging both hard and soft power to enhance global stability and advance U.S. national interests. How has this international approach evolved over time? What role have alliances played?  And how does U.S. engagement on the global stage influence domestic prosperity?

Panelists will explore the United States’ historical and contemporary role in international affairs by examining past successes and missteps, the value of U.S. diplomacy in a rapidly changing world and the future of U.S. leadership in global affairs.

Discussion Lead: Audrey Kurth Cronin, Director and Trustees Professor of Security and Technology, Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy & Technology

Panelists:

• Mark Kamlet, University Professor of Economics and Public Policy; Provost Emeritus, Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy & Technology
• Sarah Mendelson, Distinguished Service Professor of Public Policy and Director of Sustainable Futures, Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy

The Federal Government and Knowledge Production: Balancing Innovation, Policy and Public Good
Monday, April 21
4-5:30 p.m. ET
Simmons Auditorium, Tepper School of Business

Click Here to Register for April 21

This panel will explore the federal government’s role in funding, shaping and disseminating knowledge across various sectors. It will highlight how federally sponsored research, health and medical centers and regulatory frameworks contribute to scientific advancements and public well-being. Panelists will focus on the mechanisms, benefits and challenges of federal involvement in knowledge production, translation and dissemination.

Discussion Lead: Theresa Mayer, Vice President for Research

Panelists will be announced soon.