Global Goals, Local Action: Rotary Commemorates the United Nations at 80

This event – taking place in the very building where the UN Charter was signed – will bring together Rotary members, community leaders, and international partners to recognize Rotary’s longstanding relationship with the UN and focus on the urgency and opportunity of the next five years as the world approaches the 2030 deadline for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Attendees will examine how civil society, multilateral institutions, and community members can recommit to collective progress towards achieving the UN SDGs and explore how local collaboration and innovation can drive scalable solutions to the world’s biggest challenges. The event will serve as an opportunity to foster shared learning and inspire renewed commitment to the values and vision that shaped the UN 80 years ago.

Speakers

• Francesco Arezzo, 2025-26 President, Rotary International
• Jamie M. Chan, Ed.D., Executive Director, Planet Bee Foundation
• Melissa Fleming, Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications, United Nations
• John Hewko, General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation
• John Paul Lederach, Ph. D., Professor Emeritus of Peacebuilding, University of Notre Dame and Senior Fellow, Humanity United
• Michael J. Nyenhuis, President & CEO, UNICEF USA
• Vicki Puliz, Trustee, The Rotary Foundation (2025-29)
• And Many More…Visit www.globalgoalslocalaction.com for the full speaker list

Additional Information

Highlights Include:

• Hear from distinguished speakers representing the UN, Rotary, and partner organizations.
• Learn about Rotary’s historic relationship with the UN and explore how this connection lives on today.
• Participate in interactive breakouts on peace, health, sustainability, and youth leadership.
• Explore the UN@80 historical exhibit and community impact booths.
• Connect with peers through curated networking opportunities.

Bonus Side Events (depending on package selection)

• Opening luncheon
• Networking reception with program speakers and community leaders
• Closing reception with Rotary senior leaders