Grounded in its founding mandate from Congress, the U.S. Institute of Peace serves the American people directly, connecting the public across the U.S. with USIP resources and expertise. These programs include virtual and in-person speaking events in communities around the country, as well as hosting public groups at USIP’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. All stem from USIP’s commitment to expanding the American public’s understanding of the U.S. role in peacebuilding and how it is essential for national and global security.

Speakers Bureau

The USIP Speakers Bureau connects national networks and local organizations in the United States with leading USIP experts for virtual and in-person speaking events on themes relevant to the Institute’s mission. It is part of USIP’s longstanding commitment to informing the American public about the U.S. role in peacebuilding around the world.

The Speakers Bureau supports different event types for public audiences, including roundtables, virtual, hybrid, and in-person events ranging from:

  • topical discussions
  • briefings on current events
  • introductions of the Institute’s work
  • virtual tours of the Peace Trail on the National Mall
  • and more.

Members of the public education team coordinate with potential event hosts to match the proposed topic and format with the right expert at USIP, and to provide additional strategic input and support to ensure events are most successful.

Upcoming Events

Check back soon for new events!

Request a Speaker

For more information or to request a speaker for a U.S.-based organization, contact Allison Sturma with the Public Education team.

Visit our headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The Public Education team is providing virtual and limited in-person educational programs about USIP and its work for U.S.-based educators, students, organizations, and groups:

  • An Introduction to USIP: Get to know the U.S. Institute of Peace – its history, mission, and its work around the world in a 1-hour interactive program hosted by USIP staff virtually or at our Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
  • Hear from a USIP Expert: Connect virtually with a USIP expert for a briefing about a particular country or theme of interest to your group.
  • Virtual tour of the Peace Trail on the National Mall: Explore the Peace Trail on the National Mall with a virtual tour led remotely, live, by USIP staff. Starting at USIP and tracing a path to up to a dozen other key sites in the vicinity, the Peace Trail on the National Mall brings a “peace lens” to the experience of visiting the National Mall by elevating stories of key figures, institutions, and moments in history that demonstrate America’s commitment to peace. Throughout the virtual tour, there will be opportunities to learn about USIP's work and to discuss peace themes.
  • To request any of the above virtual programs or to request a visit to our Headquarters, please submit our Group Visit Request form and we will get back to you.

Other Ways to Stay Engaged

  • USIP’s annual Peace Day Challenge is an opportunity to highlight the enduring relevance of the International Day of Peace on September 21, and to inspire actions for peace, both big and small. Discover how you can participate in this worldwide event.
  • USIP engages K-12 schools nationwide with educational programs on USIP’s work, year-long initiatives including contests for high school students and the Peace Teachers Program, and additional USIP resources that teach about American approaches to peacebuilding.