Edina Community Ed

Due to an unexpected invitation to be part of a trade delegation going to East Africa this December, Tom Hanson has asked that we move this class to January 2026. You can register to get on the waitlist, and we will notify you when we have the new date set. 

What just happened—and why does it matter? From shifting alliances to major conflicts, climate diplomacy to global trade, the past year has been packed with international developments. Join us for an engaging look back at the major foreign policy events that shaped the world. We’ll explore key moments, examine underlying trends, and discuss what they might mean for the future with Tom Hanson. Perfect for curious minds who want to stay informed and make sense of a rapidly changing global landscape. No prior experience with foreign policy needed—just bring your questions and curiosity!

Thomas Hanson is a former U.S. Foreign Service Officer with the Department of State whose diplomatic postings included East Germany, France, Norway, the Soviet Union, Sweden, and the former Soviet Republic of Georgia. He also participated in the opening of new U.S. embassies in Mongolia and Estonia, worked on the Foreign Relations Committees of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, and served as Director for NATO and European Affairs at the Atlantic Council of the United States in Washington, D.C.

Thomas Hanson is the Diplomat in Residence at the Alworth Institute for International Affairs at the University of Minnesota – Duluth and has taught diplomacy at Carleton College. He serves as Chair of the Minnesota Committee on Foreign Relations, Co-Chair of the Minnesota China Business Council, and is involved with several other organizations, including the U.S. Foreign Policy Working Group of the British International Studies Association.

Hanson frequently speaks on international issues, contributes to media, and delivers an annual U.S. Foreign Policy Update. He holds a BA from the University of Minnesota and graduate degrees from the Fletcher School, the Institute of Advanced International Studies in Geneva, and the National School of Administration in Paris.

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Please read our Adult Programming Overview page for all info regarding registration, cancellation, and building info.

Adult Programs - Edina Community Ed (edinaschools.org)

Registration for all class sessions closes 3 days before the start date.

Late Registration: If you miss the deadline but are still interested, you can contact the Community Ed office. Space may be limited, but we'll try our best to accommodate late registrations.

Email: communityed@edinaschools.org
Phone: (952) 848-3952