Join the VCWA on Thursday, October 12, 2023, as we come together to observe International Day of Peace
In celebration of the United Nations' International Day of Peace, the VCWA is hosting its annual International Day of Peace Celebration on October 12th, focused on Peace and Security in a Changing World. Join us as we unite visionaries, policymakers, and advocates in a shared commitment to building a more peaceful and secure world. Hear from keynote speaker Tim Rieser, senior foreign policy aide to Senator Patrick Leahy along with other distinguished speakers, including former Vermont Lieutenant Governor Molly Gray, VCWA board chair and former longtime mayor of Burlington, Peter Clavelle, and VCWA President & CEO Patricia Preston.
This year's event will delve into the challenges and opportunities of establishing peace and security in a world grappling with threats like climate change, terrorism, and political instability. The conversations will center on crafting a more peaceful and secure world for generations to come.
“Maintaining the peace is the business of all peoples. ”
— Ambassador Warren Austin, VCWA Founder
Person of the Year Award
Each year, the VCWA’s International Day of Peace event, honors an individual who, in VCWA's view, embodies the qualities inherent in promoting international understanding and building ties between the US and the world.
This year, the Vermont Council on World Affairs (VCWA) is honored to present the 2023 Person of the Year Award to Tim Rieser, a distinguished senior foreign policy aide to Senator Patrick Leahy. Rieser's unwavering commitment to diplomacy, peace, and global security has left an indelible mark on the international stage.
Rieser's extensive career spans decades of dedicated service to Senator Leahy and includes pivotal roles such as Democratic Clerk for the Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations since 1989. His instrumental contributions to shaping U.S. foreign policy encompass critical issues ranging from human rights to global health, international environmental conservation, and a wide range of other foreign assistance programs.
An ardent advocate of peaceful dialogue and diplomacy, Rieser played a pivotal role in supporting Senator Leahy in normalizing relations with Cuba during the Obama administration. He has also helped to orchestrate the fight against landmines and cluster munitions, establish programs to assist innocent victims of war and address war legacies in Vietnam including contamination resulting from Agent Orange.
The VCWA community takes great pride in adding Tim Rieser to the esteemed roster of recipients of VCWA's Person of the Year Award. To learn more about this award and past honorees, please visit:
Join us on Oct. 12th to gain insights into peace and security, connect with fellow peacemakers, and celebrate Tim Rieser's important contributions by honoring him as VCWA’s 2023 Person of the Year.