Above: Dr. James Robbins, IWP Dean of Academics, gives the keynote address at the luncheon. Photo by Aesthetic Images.
On September 8th, The Institute of World Politics (IWP) and the West Point Society Piedmont co-hosted a luncheon event, in Greensboro, North Carolina. This event was made possible through the efforts of IWP Co-Chairs Karen Armstrong and Susan Macheledt, as well as the cooperation of Bill Trivette, the West Point Society Piedmont Chair.
The luncheon began with a welcome from Susan Macheledt, a member of the Chancellor’s Council at IWP. Susan was joined on stage by Karen Armstrong, a member of the Board of Advisors of IWP, and Bill Trivette, the President of the West Point Society of the Piedmont. In her opening remarks, Susan expressed gratitude to all attendees and introduced Monsignor Marcaccio, who delivered the invocation.

The group took a moment to honor and thank veterans and active military service personnel in the audience. Those who had served or were currently serving were asked to stand and received a round of applause which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Karen Armstrong described IWP and its unique approach to education. She emphasized IWP’s role as a graduate school specializing in national security, intelligence, and international affairs. Ms. Armstrong also highlighted the importance of ethics and the Western moral tradition in IWP’s curriculum. She underscored the school’s commitment to teaching students to do the right thing, especially in sensitive government positions. Additionally, Ms. Armstrong mentioned that IWP students study American founding principles to better understand the country they will serve.
Soon afterward, Bill Trivette introduced the event’s featured speaker, Dr. Jim Robbins, IWP’s Dean of Academics. Before Dr. Robbins took the stage, a video presentation showcasing the history of West Point was shown. Dr. Jim Robbins then delivered a talk about his book, Last in Their Class: Custer, Pickett, and the Goats of West Point.

Karen Armstrong then introduced Amb. Aldona Woś, the President of The Institute of World Politics. Amb. Woś shared valuable information about IWP’s graduate degrees and the promising career opportunities available to its students upon graduation.
Amb. Woś, who brings a wealth of experience to her role, highlighted the diverse and impactful roles IWP graduates occupy in various sectors, emphasizing the relevance and effectiveness of the education provided by the Institute.
IWP extends its heartfelt thanks to its dedicated supporters, Karen Armstrong and Susan Macheledt, for their invaluable contributions in making this event a success.
