The World Affairs Council of Oregon was founded in 1950 when an informal group of Reed College professors and friends, spearheaded by Dr. Frank Munk, came together to discuss international issues. After World War II, isolationist sentiments were taking hold across the United States. The group wanted to create a platform for everyday citizens to gain a deeper understanding of world affairs and their role as global citizens. They worked to ensure that Oregonians had access to nonpartisan resources for internationally-focused engagement for residents in our region—through K-12 education, international exchange, and robust public conversations.

Today, nearly 75 years later, we are part of the World Affairs Council of America network of almost 90 nonprofit, nonpartisan councils focused on public programs and education located in 41 states. We are also a vital part of the Global Ties U.S. network of over 80 community-based members focused on hosting international visitors in 44 states.



In 2017, we changed our name to WorldOregon with a new vision for the future. We look forward to continuously evolving to meet the needs of the community we serve as we work to prepare the next generation of informed global citizens.