Understanding Global Conflict in the 21st Century: A Soldier’s Perspective S26

Meeting Times

• Thursday 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Description

In-person class at Fox Chapel Area High School

Effective Fall 2025, there are no refunds if you cancel your registration in a one-night class. Students assume all risk for changes in their personal schedules.

NEW! Have you ever wondered how a drone strike in a remote desert or a cyberattack on a power grid actually changes the face of modern combat? Join us for a thoughtful evening with Lt. Col (Ret.) Michael Starz (ninth from right in the photo), an O’Hara Township native who served three decades as a soldier and infantry officer in the U.S. Army. In uniform, Mike worked on national security policy and acquisition programs in Congress and the Pentagon before commanding the 8-nation advisor mission in Ukraine before the war. He now works at Carnegie Mellon University supporting national security research between academia and the government. Mike will share insights from his combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan and will use his experience as springboard for a larger conversation about the evolution of conflict.

Through both lecture and meaningful discussion, this class will focus on some of the big questions currently shaping our world:

• How has and how will modern technology impact the battlefield?
• How do we make sense of world events?
• What is truth in warfare?
• What should citizens understand about foreign affairs?
• What should citizens understand about the U.S. military (culture, roles, leaders) and its operations? 
• How do we assess personal experiences (anecdotes) in world events versus “History”?

This class is perfect for anyone interested in history, the military, or technology and looking to better understand foreign affairs. Come ready for a lively discussion!