Convocation: Stuart Gibson

"A Cultural Ambassador in the Context of Global Citizenship." During periods of social crisis, culture is frequently marginalized as inconsequential. Nevertheless, it can play a vital role in promoting stability during difficult economic and political transitions. Stuart Gibson is a fine arts and cultural heritage consultant who specializes in assisting cultural organizations and governments during economic and political transition, advising governments on how to save their national treasures. In addition, Gibson is the director of the UNESCO Hermitage Project in St. Petersburg, Russia, described by the Russian government as one of the most successful cultural projects undertaken by the United Nations in Russia. The State Hermitage Museum is one of the largest, oldest, most important and famous art galleries and museums of human history and culture in the world. UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that promotes international collaboration through education, science, and culture. Using the former Soviet Union and the Middle East as primary examples, Gibson will explain how cultural diplomacy can be used as a tool in overcoming political and economic isolation.