ACNSL Co-Sponsors the 2026 Dalmas Nelson Lecture
ACNSL co-sponsored the 2026 Dalmas Nelson Lecture, held at the University of Utah. The Dalmas Nelson Lecture is a biannual event hosted by the University of Utah School of Public Affairs in honor of Dr. Dalmas Nelson, a co-founder of the University of Utah Masters in Public Administration program.
The topic of the 2026 lecture was, “Why is the U.S. an International Actor and the Role of the Department of State.” The featured speaker (provided by ACNSL), Ambassador Patrick Kennedy, spoke on his experiences as a career foreign service officer, and why college students should consider a career with the State Department.
Career Panel on Working Internationally
The Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah also hosted a panel on Working Globally. Panelists included:
Maggie Crookston, Graduate Researcher Moderator
Ambassador Patrick Kennedy, former Under Secretary for Management, U.S. Department of State (retired) Panelist
Nicole Striano, International Trade Expert, Kallman Worldwide, Inc. Panelist
Christoph Dressler, Co-Founder of Dressler Detours Panelist
Brigadier General Eric Strong (US Army, retired), National Security Consulting Panelist
The recording for this event can be found at https://www.hinckley.utah.edu/pastforums/1-27-26/.
Informal ROTC Conversation
Ambassador Kennedy hosted an informal conversation with the University of Utah ROTC cadets and midshipmen. Topics covered included collaboration between the Military and State Department, the role of the State Department abroad, and how ROTC cadets and midshipmen can continue their public service after military service.
