Global Engagement

The weekend gathering began with a welcome address from Julia Farr (C’88, P’19, ‘21, ‘24), executive director of the Georgetown University Alumni Association, who provided updates on alumni engagement around the world and shared resources for all alumni present. Afterwards, Interim President Robert M. Groves delivered remarks on the current state of the university and discussed recent and upcoming physical additions to the campuses. To conclude the evening, guests from around the world took advantage of networking and socializing opportunities.

The following morning, alumni attended two panel discussions that featured high-level speakers in engaging conversations. The first panel was focused on the timely discussion of “U.S.-Japan Relations in the Trump-Takaichi Era” while the second panel, “The Future of Global Education,” provided for a more in-depth discussion on Georgetown University and higher education in general.

One of the highlights of the weekend was an evening reception during which attendees were treated to a fireside chat between former foreign and defense minister of Japan Kono Taro (SFS’85) and Interim President Groves. Alumni appreciated the open discussion on political and international affairs and the state of the U.S.-Japan relationship.

The summit also included cultural excursions for alumni, who were able to visit sites such as the seaside town of Kamakura, enjoy private ramen tastings, and take part in a Lost in Translation tour that visited scenes from the 2003 movie filmed in Tokyo. From networking opportunities to learning from panel discussions to taking in the sites of Tokyo, Georgetown alumni had memorable experiences and are now eagerly awaiting next year’s summit.