News Summary
Perry World House at the University of Pennsylvania has launched its year-long celebration marking its 10th anniversary. The institution, which opened in 2016, emphasizes its commitment to bridging academic insights with global policy solutions. This milestone will include notable events such as a 10th Anniversary Gala and the First Annual Conference. PWH continues to foster international dialogue and address pressing global challenges through its four primary thematic pillars: climate change, democracy, global justice and human rights, and security.
Philadelphia – Perry World House (PWH) at the University of Pennsylvania has officially kicked off its year-long celebrations to mark its 10th anniversary, commemorating a decade of significant contributions to global policy engagement. The announcement, made recently, highlights PWH’s enduring commitment to bridging academic insights with real-world policy solutions on a global scale. The institution, which first opened its doors in 2016, serves as a vital hub for fostering international dialogue and addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
This milestone year will feature a series of events, with key highlights including a 10th Anniversary Gala scheduled for November 11, 2026, and the First Annual Conference on November 11 and 12, 2026. Further programming and reflective events are expected to be shared throughout the year, inviting the broader Penn community and global policy leaders to participate in this significant observance.
A Decade of Global Engagement and Impact
Since its inception, Perry World House has firmly established itself as a leading center for connecting the academic community with the policy landscape, spanning Washington D.C., New York, and international arenas. Its mission is centered on leveraging the extensive academic knowledge available at the University of Pennsylvania to confront critical global policy issues and to nurture international policy engagement both within and beyond the university. PWH is recognized for generating impactful research, developing actionable policy proposals, and providing unparalleled opportunities for students and faculty alike, contributing to global discourse on prominent stages.
The work of Perry World House is structured around four primary thematic pillars: climate change, democracy, global justice and human rights, and security. These areas guide PWH’s comprehensive approach to scholarly inquiry, teaching, research, and public outreach. Through its diverse programming, PWH facilitates essential conversations about global policy hurdles and promotes interdisciplinary research to find solutions. It regularly hosts workshops, colloquia, and distinguished visitors, producing valuable content for global audiences and policy leaders to ensure that the knowledge cultivated at Penn has an immediate worldwide impact.
Shaping Future Global Leaders
Perry World House plays a crucial role in preparing Penn students to become well-informed and contributing global citizens. The center offers unique student engagement opportunities, including programs like the World House Student Associates and various fellowship opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. These initiatives are designed to cultivate a broad worldview, critical thinking skills, and the leadership qualities necessary to tackle complex global affairs. PWH’s commitment to connecting students with the global policy community is further exemplified by programs such as the Perry World House and Penn Global Climate & Security Policy Fellows Program, supported by grants from organizations like the Carnegie Corporation of New York.
The Physical Hub for Global Dialogue
Located at 3803 Locust Walk, in the heart of the University of Pennsylvania campus, Perry World House occupies a distinctive 17,400-square-foot building. The architectural design thoughtfully integrates a portion of a 19th-century worker’s cottage with a modern, limestone-clad structure, symbolizing the blend of tradition and forward-thinking engagement. This design, developed by 1100 Architect, aims to foster interaction and open dialogue.
A central feature of the building is the World Forum, a glass-enclosed atrium that functions as a dynamic, multi-purpose event space, suitable for seminars, lectures, and special events. This physical openness of the building mirrors PWH’s agenda to be a venue for candid discussion among visitors from across the globe. The establishment of Perry World House was made possible through a generous gift from Penn alumnus and Trustee Richard C. Perry and his wife, Lisa. It operates as a vital component of Penn Global, the university’s overarching initiative for leading, coordinating, and supporting its worldwide endeavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Perry World House celebrating?
Perry World House (PWH) at the University of Pennsylvania is celebrating its 10th anniversary of advancing global policy engagement.
When did Perry World House open?
Perry World House opened its doors in 2016.
What are the key areas of focus for Perry World House?
The key areas of focus for Perry World House are climate change, democracy, global justice and human rights, and security.
What are some upcoming anniversary events for Perry World House?
Upcoming anniversary events for Perry World House include a 10th Anniversary Gala on November 11, 2026, and the First Annual Conference on November 11 and 12, 2026.
Where is Perry World House located?
Perry World House is located at 3803 Locust Walk, Philadelphia, PA, in the heart of the University of Pennsylvania campus.
Key Features of Perry World House
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Anniversary | Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026. |
| Mission | Advancing global policy engagement and bridging academia with the policy world. |
| Key Pillars | Climate change, democracy, global justice and human rights, and security. |
| Location | 3803 Locust Walk, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. |
| Building Size | 17,400-square-foot facility. |
| Key Architectural Feature | World Forum, a glass-enclosed atrium for events. |
| Founding Support | Established through a gift from Richard C. Perry and Lisa Perry. |
| Affiliation | Part of Penn Global at the University of Pennsylvania. |
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