Leading Democracy at Home and Abroad: A Conversation with Congressman Joaquin Castro and Ambassador Nathalie Rayes

Institute of Politics, Harvard Kennedy School
79 JFK St.
Cambridge
Fri., Sep. 18, 2026, 10 – 11 a.m.



Join the Institute of Politics for our Food for Thought discussion series featuring Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX) in conversation with Ambasador Nathalie Rayes. The conversation will focus on the enduring leadership questions that define public service, democratic governance, and America’s role in the world.

Drawing on Congressman Castro’s experience on the House Intelligence Committee, his leadership on foreign affairs, and his longstanding work on democracy, immigration, and the Western Hemisphere, the discussion will explore not only the issues shaping our world today, but also the principles, judgment, and leadership required to navigate them.

Please register with a valid Harvard email address to attend in-person.

Gazette Classification: Education, Special Events
Organization/Sponsor: Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School
Speaker(s): Congressman Joaquin Castro , D, TX-20, Ambassador Nathalie Rayes , IOP Fall 2026 Fellow; Former U.S. Ambassador to Croatia
Cost: Free
Ticket Web Link: iop.harvard.edu…
Contact Info: [email protected]
Harvard Key Required: No
More info: iop.harvard.edu…