Walsh University will host the Spring 2024 Presidential Thought Leadership Series featuring two esteemed figures, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, Apostolic Nuncio and Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, and Bishop David Bonnar, Diocese of Youngstown. The discussion, in a fireside chat format, will center on the pivotal role of the Catholic Church since the Fourth Century in international diplomacy and its significance in shaping global affairs.
Scheduled for Wednesday, April 3, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at the Barrette Business and Community Center, this event is free and open to the public. It promises an engaging dialogue that will shed light on the Church's engagement with over 183 countries worldwide through its diplomatic channels, commonly known as papal nuncios, and its implications for both global citizens and members of the local community. Bishop Bonnar will join Archbishop Gabriele Caccia for an insightful conversation on the theme “Diplomacy in the Church and Why it Matters.” This discussion aims to provide attendees with a deeper understanding of the Church's mission beyond sacramental practices, emphasizing her concern for the Common Good, peace and the welfare of all people.
The Presidential Thought Leadership Series centers on the intellectual life which has been the hallmark of Catholic higher education for more than nine centuries and serves as a platform for intellectual discourse and exploring critical issues. The inaugural event, held in November 2021, featured the esteemed presence of Fr. Nicanor Austriaco, a multifaceted scholar renowned for his contributions to both the fields of biology and theology. The previous Presidential Thought Leadership Series in 2023, the U.S. National Security Policy Panel with World Leaders, attracted an audience of over 1,000 attendees, making it one of North Canton's most prestigious events. Delving into critical topics such as national security, NATO's significance, and U.S. relations with global allies and adversaries, the event featured esteemed guests General Philip M. Breedlove, Ambassador Francis Campbell, General Tod D. Wolters and Dr. Joe Wood. The upcoming fireside chat exemplifies the University's commitment to providing thought-provoking opportunities for students, faculty and the broader community to engage with prominent figures on matters of national and international significance.
Archbishop Gabriele Caccia is an esteemed Italian clergyman within the Catholic Church, dedicated to the diplomatic endeavors of the Holy See. With a distinguished diplomatic career as a major part of his ministry, he has held pivotal roles within the Secretariat of State and served as the Apostolic Nuncio in Lebanon and the Philippines. In 2019, he assumed the crucial position of Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, where his profound dedication to human rights and humanitarian efforts continues to shape global discourse.
Bishop David Bonnar, originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is the sixth Bishop of Youngstown. Ordained in 1988, he served in various capacities including Director of Vocations and pastor before his appointment as Bishop in 2020. Bishop Bonnar's leadership extends beyond his pastoral duties, having chaired numerous boards and serving as editor of The Priest magazine, as well as being appointed to the National Advisory Board for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2020.
Archbishop Gabriele Caccia’s presence alongside Bishop Bonnar ensures a dynamic exchange that brings insight into the intersection of faith, diplomacy and global affairs that will captivate audiences and foster greater understanding of the Church's global outreach.
President Tim Collins has emphasized the importance of such events, stating, “As a Catholic institution of higher education and a community asset, Walsh University has a duty to offer intellectual opportunities to discuss issues of global and national importance, to consider and engage with new ideas and approaches that challenge the steadfast opinions we all carry, and to grow spiritually and in ways that will make us more informed citizens and a more grateful community. It is also an opportunity to engage on a personal level with exceptionally serious-minded people.”
All members of the community are invited to attend this enriching event. Seating is limited, so early registration is encouraged to secure a place at this significant conversation. Light refreshments will be available following the fireside chat. Visit walsh.edu/leadershipseries for more information and to register.
