On October 25-27, 2023, the Peoria Area World Affairs Council hosted Ambassador Charles Ray for a program focused on the Blueprints Report. 

The program included a dinner with Board members of the World Affairs Council of Central Illinois and a luncheon hosted by Board members of the Peoria Area World Affairs Council with Mayor Rita Ali, Mayor of the City of Peoria.

Ambassador Ray conducted an “At Issue” session for the local PBS affiliate, WTVP, with Mark Whelp and graphics inserted by Phil Luciano. He was also interviewed by Tim Shelley at WCBU, where he covered current global issues and his experience as a multiple times Ambassador. Watch the full interview. 

Ambassador Ray visited several college campuses where he met with students and faculty from Lincoln Land Community College, Bradley University, and Illinois State University to discuss the state of the U.S. State Department and how students can pursue careers in diplomacy.

The recording of the main program can be found below:

News coverage of the program:

Ambassador Charles Ray shares insight into what diplomats actually do for Americans