Global Matters: Paths to Trust and Peace
Nov. 12–13, 2025
Monmouth University
The Global Understanding Convention Committee of the Institute for Global Understanding at Monmouth University hosted its biennial Global Understanding Convention on campus on Nov. 12-13, 2025. The focus of the convention was a reflection on the United Nations’ Member States Declaration of 2025 as the “International Year of Peace and Trust.” The UN estimates that nearly 2 billion people live in communities impacted by conflict. The UN General Assembly resolution (A/RES/78/266) “Calls upon the international community to resolve conflicts through inclusive dialogue and negotiation … to ensure the strengthening of peace and trust in relations between Member States as a value that promotes sustainable development, peace and security, and human rights.”
The two-day convention engaged in conversation and critical reflection on the ways that the Monmouth University campus community can work to support and sustain a culture of peace, dialogue, and trust in the region, the nation, and around the world. The event included expert panels and lectures, a poster session, a Pearson World Cinema Series screening, global food bazaar, and music events.
Keynote Speaker
Dee Baker is a Monmouth University alumna, U.S. Air Force veteran, and founder of Beyond the Uniforms, a business whose purpose is “empowering women veterans to lead boldly beyond the uniform.” Baker delivered the convention’s keynote address on Nov. 13 in the Great Hall Auditorium. More information about Baker can be found at her Linkedin page.
Click here to watch a recording of Baker’s remarks.
Co-Chairs
Please contact the Global Understanding Convention co-chairs with any questions:
- Jiwon Kim, Ph.D. (jkim@monmouth.edu, 732-263-5632)
- Jennifer Shamrock, Ph.D. (jshamroc@monmouth.edu, 732-263-5426)
- Kurt Wagner, University Librarian (kwagner@monmouth.edu, 732-571-4401)
- Jackie Tamburrino, Monmouth University Student (s1337130@monmouth.edu)
- Paris Galgano, Monmouth University Student (s1352550@monmouth.edu)
Sponsors
A special thanks to these schools, departments, and programs at Monmouth University for their support: Department of Communication, Guggenheim Memorial Library, Intercultural Center, The Leon Hess Business School, Marjorie K. Unterberg School of Nursing and Health Studies, Office of the President, Office of the Provost, School of Education, School of Social Work, Urban Coast Institute, Wayne D. McMurray School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Photo Gallery
Poster Contest
Thank you to the Monmouth University students who submitted entries to the convention’s poster contest. Scroll down to browse their artwork.
Winning Entries
Honorable Mentions
Additional Entries
