Chidi Blyden, a respected figure in international policy and development, has been appointed to the National Board of Directors of the World Affairs Councils of America (WACA). The announcement was made as WACA welcomed four new board members to begin its new fiscal year.
Blyden joins Col. Susan Seaman Boré (USMC, ret.), Ambassador (ret.) Alina Romanowski, and Angela Weck as part of the board’s latest additions. The organization says the new members will bring fresh insight and leadership as it continues to support and connect over 90 local World Affairs Councils across the United States.
Reacting to the news, Chidi Blyden expressed her appreciation for the appointment and spoke about the importance of the organization’s work.
“I am honored to be a part of the World Affairs Councils of America, an organization dedicated to international policy, education, engagement, and domestic affairs,” she said. “Their commitment to making complex global issues accessible to all is truly commendable.”
Blyden also noted her interest in working with local WACA chapters across the country to help raise awareness on the importance of U.S. state and local governance, Africa’s global relevance, and the role of the Western Hemisphere in shaping international affairs.
The World Affairs Councils of America also used the occasion to thank outgoing board members Mimi Gregory, Mimi Burke, and Maryanne Maldonado for their service and leadership over the years.
WACA is one of the oldest and largest non-partisan, non-profit international affairs organizations in the United States. Through events, discussions, and educational programs, it aims to promote a better understanding of global issues among the American public.
Chidi Blyden is widely known for her work in U.S.-Africa relations and international peacebuilding. Her addition to the board is expected to strengthen WACA’s focus on bridging global conversations with local communities across the U.S.