CINCINNATI, OH — The 2026 World Affairs Councils of America (WACA) Council Leadership Meeting will be hosted by the World Affairs Council –Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky this June. We are proud to announce the opening reception will be available to the public and take place on June 8, 2026, at the iconic TQL Stadium, featuring an exclusive fireside chat with Jeff Berding, President and Co-CEO of FC Cincinnati and member of the FIFA World Soccer Committee.
As this region prepares to host senior executives and board members from across the country for the national conference, this opening keynote explores how elite sport serves as a powerful engine for economic growth and international diplomacy. Berding will share his “Berding Blueprint,” detailing how the Queen City is leveraging soft power and global talent networks to bridge the gap between local impact and transnational influence.
“This is a unique opportunity to showcase how Cincinnati unites to tell a global story to national leaders,” said Michelle Glandorf, President & CEO of the World Affairs Council – Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky. “Jeff Berding’s visionary leadership has redefined what it means for a city to stay globally connected, and we are thrilled to host this discussion at the home of FC Cincinnati.”
In a tribute to the connection between the global and the grassroots, the Council will donate official FIFA soccer balls to a local youth program in Berding’s honor during the event.
Event Highlights Include:
Fireside Chat: Insights into the intersection of sports, diplomacy, and economic development
Networking: An opportunity to connect with national and local leaders.
Stadium Experience: Guided tours of TQL Stadium, cocktails, and lite bites.
About Jeff Berding:
A fifth-generation Cincinnatian, Jeff Berding has been instrumental in the region’s sports and civic landscape. Beyond founding FC Cincinnati and leading its ascension to Major League Soccer, Berding spent nearly two decades as an executive with the Cincinnati Bengals and served three terms on the Cincinnati City Council. He is a recipient of the 2024 Cincinnati Business Courier CEO of the Year award and holds leadership roles with Visit Cincy and the Cincinnati Regional Business Committee.
Ticketing Information:
The Council is offering Early Bird tickets for $20. Attendees are encouraged to register early, as prices will increase by $15 as the event date approaches.
For more information and to secure your tickets, please visit: https://globalcincinnati.networkforgood.com/events/100908-2026-leadership-council-meeting-opening-reception-with-jeff-berding
About the World Affairs Council – Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky
World Affairs Council – Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that builds global understanding and promotes international awareness through education and engagement. As a member of the World Affairs Councils of America, it connects the tristate region to the world.
