Forum presents 'Globalization, Terrorism & National Security: What in the world is going on?'

Wayne State University’s Forum on Contemporary Issues in Society (FOCIS) will feature former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, presidential candidate and author General Wesley K. Clark on Thursday, April 23, exploring the topic “Globalization, Terrorism & National Security: What in the world is going on?”

During 38 years of service in the U.S. Army, Clark rose to the rank of four-star general as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander, Europe. Since retiring from the military in 2000, he has taken on the roles of investment banker, alternative energy leader, author, network television military analyst and businessman.

In 2003, he became a Democratic candidate for president of the United States, where his campaign won the state of Oklahoma and launched him to national prominence before he returned to the private sector in 2004.

Author of three best-selling books, Clark’s latest release, “Don’t Wait for the Next War,” identifies a new, unifying national strategy to tackle America’s current and future challenges: terrorism, cybersecurity, financial system vulnerabilities, the rise of China and accelerating climate change. He explores the need of a real strategic vision to meet this new class of national security challenges, as well as what’s at stake if the will to lead that vision isn’t ascertained.

“As we become more of a global society embracing the diversity of cultures, economies and political systems, new and daunting challenges are emerging,” said Irvin D. Reid, director of FOCIS and inaugural holder of Wayne State’s Eugene Applebaum Chair in Community Engagement. “Globalization seemingly makes our world smaller and our borders more vulnerable. We have witnessed acts of terrorism affecting the safety of citizens and compromising financial institutions through cybersecurity breaches. These threats have contributed to heightened concerns about national security. And we ask ourselves: ‘What in the world is going on?’

“We are privileged to have General Wesley Clark as our special keynote speaker. He has both the intellectual and experiential background to address this topic offering perspective and clarity,” Reid said.

The FOCIS event features a lecture at 6 p.m. and a book signing at 7:15 p.m., followed by a reception. All events are free and will be held at Wayne State University’s Community Arts Auditorium, 450 Reuther Mall, in Detroit. Pre-registration is required at call 313-577-5550.

Established in 2007, FOCIS is a special initiative that focuses Wayne State University’s problem-solving resources on an eclectic range of topics important to the campus community and beyond. FOCIS lectures and related events bring together the institution’s teaching, research and service missions to advance the frontiers of knowledge, promote informed debate and encourage responsible citizenship in an increasingly fast-paced, interconnected and complex global society. FOCIS presents coordinated public programs, foreign-study projects, research opportunities and ongoing community dialogues addressing specific issues that confront the citizens of Detroit, the United States and the world.

The Eugene Applebaum Chair in Community Engagement was created through the generosity of alumnus Eugene Applebaum, founding chair of the Wayne State University Foundation. The Applebaum Chair is a catalyst for cooperation between the university and community organizations on issues in business and economic development, education, health, international outreach, politics and other areas. FOCIS is the Applebaum Chair’s primary public platform.