Erica Frantz, PhDNorthwestern Michigan College’s International Affairs Forum launches its 29th season on Thursday, September 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the Dennos Museum Center Milliken Auditorium in Traverse City, preceded by a reception at 5:30 p.m. with wine & snacks.

IAF’s season opener will be an in-person event: “Democracy vs. Autocracy” with Erica Frantz, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Political Science, Michigan State University. Dr. Frantz will explore global examples of the erosion of democratic ideals and the dangerous slide into authoritarianism.

Authoritarianism book coverDr. Frantz has published seven books on these themes, including Authoritarianism: What Everyone Needs to Know (Oxford University Press, 2018). She is a frequent contributor to publications including Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, and The Washington Post. This event will also be available to livestream.

The event will be moderated by John Zachman, Ph.D., professor in the Political Science and Philosophy Departments at Northwestern Michigan College. John holds a B.A. from Michigan State University and a Ph.D. from Duke University. At NMC, he teaches moral and ethical philosophy and political science courses in a variety of disciplines. He has been promoting student and community engagement in world affairs for over two decades at NMC.

Tickets are required and available for purchase at TCIAF.com or at the door. In-person admission is $15 per person.

Current students and educators receive free in-person admission with school I.D. or name badge. The event is available to livestream. Registration is required with a suggested donation of $10.