Your passport to global affairs

Dear NCWA Members and Friends,

When I joined the Naples Council on World Affairs thirteen years ago, I was immediately captivated by the breadth and quality of its programs. That is even more true today. In today’s world, we are surrounded by a constant stream of news, commentary, and online content from countless sources and perspectives. While this abundance of information keeps us informed, it rarely provides the deeper context and thoughtful exchange that are essential for truly understanding complex global issues.

This is where NCWA stands apart.

Through our carefully selected speakers - distinguished diplomats, military leaders, scholars, and policy experts - we gain direct access to individuals with exceptional experience and insight. Their presentations help us move beyond headlines and sound bites to better understand the forces shaping our world. Equally important, NCWA offers something increasingly rare today: the opportunity for respectful, informed dialogue from a policy, rather than partisan, perspective. Our members engage directly with speakers, ask challenging questions, exchange perspectives, and learn from one another in a setting dedicated to education rather than advocacy.

That same spirit of engagement is reflected in our highly regarded Great Decisions program, where members bring their own professional and life experiences into thoughtful discussions of international affairs. The depth of knowledge and intellectual curiosity within our membership community is truly remarkable.

NCWA also plays an important role in shaping future generations of globally minded citizens through our outstanding youth programs. Hundreds of students across Southwest Florida have participated in Model UN and Academic WorldQuest programs, and many have attended summer programs at leading universities in the United States and abroad. Several students and student teams have achieved success at national competitions and earned prestigious awards. These accomplishments are made possible through the dedication of our volunteers and the generous support of our members.

Together, these programs make NCWA a truly unique institution within our community - one that not only informs and enriches its members but also contributes meaningfully to the civic and educational life of Southwest Florida.

With gratitude for your support of NCWA,

Gunther Winkler
NCWA President 2026-2027