Schedule

Note: Event times and speaker lineups are subject to change

Registration

Lehman Hall 8 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA, United States

Coffee Break

Harvard Memorial Church | Main Hall 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA, United States

Panel: What’s Going On in the Land of the Free?

Harvard Memorial Church | Main Hall 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA, United States

This panel discussion will examine the current state of the German-American relationship and its impact on global politics.

Panel: Hype or Hope: Can ESG transform the world of business?

Harvard Memorial Church | Buttrick Room 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA, United States

Introduction to the foundations of ESG, its achievements so far, as well as the areas where there is still potential for improvement, where it might not be sufficient to solve current sustainability problems. A particular focus is placed on comparing the implementation of ESG in Europe and the USA on a global scale. With Dr. […]

Workshop: Music and Management

Lehman Hall 8 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA, United States

Music can serve as a powerful example for collaboration of teams as well as leadership. Various exercises have been developed that involve the team members and make the importance of team collaboration audible – not just a theoretical concept. Team members also have the chance to work on their leadership skills by playing the role […]

Keynote: How AI and Innovation Shape the Future of Business

Harvard Memorial Church | Main Hall 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA, United States

Discover the transformative potential of AI in revolutionizing business. Join Stefan Wagner, Managing Director at SAP Labs Munich, as he unveils how SAP is leading the business AI revolution through collaborative networks and the future of work. While uncertain times ask for new viewpoints, principles like relevance, reliability and responsibility guide the way. Stefan will […]

Remarks: Dr. Mark Elliott

Harvard Memorial Church | Main Hall 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA, United States

Dr. Mark Elliott, Vice Provost of International Affairs at Harvard University, will deliver the opening remarks on behalf of Harvard University. He will discuss the importance of international relations to the university.

Keynote: Ambassador Andreas Michaelis

Harvard Memorial Church | Main Hall 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA, United States

Ambassador Michaelis, the German ambassador to the United States, will provide invaluable insights into the dynamic relationship between Germany and the US, spanning diplomacy, trade, culture, and technology.

Dinner with Deloitte

Russell House Tavern 14 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Note: Application required, admittance limited to selected attendees Take a sneak peek into working in consulting by listening to the inspirational stories of seven young leaders at Deloitte Consulting in a relaxed and informal setting. Deloitte greatly look forwards to welcoming you to delicious food and fascinating conversations in the Russell House Tavern on Friday […]

Casual Get-Together for Attendees

730 Tavern 730 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA, United States

Get to know other participants from America, Germany, and beyond at the local 730 Tavern in Cambridge, just a short walk away from Harvard Yard, for a relaxed and informal bar night. Make amazing new friends, gain new insights and perspectives, and spend a phenomenal evening for as long as you like - all in […]

Social Hours

Harvard Kennedy School | Courtyard 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Decompress, exchange ideas, or network with other participants of the conference in the common area of HKS. Attendance is flexible, come as you like! Planned Activities Board Games Mind Games

Keynote: Germany, the US and Zeitenwende – Policy Making in Trying Times

Harvard Kennedy School | LITTAUER L-145 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

As Commissioner for the Federal Intelligence Services, his expertise spans governance, intelligence, and national security, with a particular focus on transatlantic topics. Join us to gain a unique perspective on these crucial matters, delving into the challenges and opportunities they present on both sides of the Atlantic. With Wolfgang Schmidt, moderated by Karl Kaiser

Keynote: A World in Flux: How Do Companies Address Societal Challenges with Innovation?

Harvard Kennedy School | LITTAUER L-145 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

As the world becomes more interconnected, understanding the dynamic shifts and challenges of our globalized society becomes crucial. Hans-Paul Bürkner's extensive experience and unique perspective promise to shed light on the strategies needed to thrive in this ever-evolving landscape. With Hans-Paul Bürkner

Panel: Civic Eloquence – The Future of Digital Advocacy

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Social media communications alter and challenge the structure of politics and parties significantly. We seek to discuss which potentials social media has for political communications, how influencers on social media are able to shape debates, and how their success reflects and influences the work and words of established parties. We are delighted to welcome two […]

Fireside Chat: Making Industrial Policy Work for Decarbonization

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This event will explore the rise of green industrial policy and its potential in fostering sustainable economic growth while addressing climatic challenges. With Franziska Brantner and Jonas Meckling

Panel: German Mittelstand: From Local Business to International Success

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-306 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Are you curious about the secret behind the German Mittelstand's global success and eager to learn how tradition meets innovation in a transatlantic context? Join us for engaging expert talks and a lively panel discussion as we unravel the journey of German Mittelstand companies in the USA. Together with executives and thought leaders, we will […]

Coffee Break

Harvard Kennedy School 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Panel: Inflation – the known, the unknown, and what to do about It

Harvard Kennedy School | LITTAUER L-145 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Inflation - is it here to stay? Are higher markups by firms to blame? How do we address the distributional consequences? Can there be a soft landing or is a recession inevitable? With Jason Furman and Isabella Weber

Panel: Geopolitical Paradigms – how do innovations shape today’s security landscape?

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

A leading voice in international security and conflict studies, an expert on the evolving landscape of European defense, and a top specialist in the realms of cyber threats and intelligence operations. Together, they will provide an in-depth analysis of the present global security challenges, explore the interplay of conventional and unconventional threats, and delve into […]

Panel: Transatlantic Collaboration in the Sciences

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This panel seeks to discuss the scientific relationship that the United States and Germany share. This means focusing on the flow of information between the two countries, as well as how this exchange of knowledge has affected the careers and lives of many notable scientists. Further, this panel would like to highlight the changing political […]

Panel: Career Paths Beyond Sectors – Ways In and Out of the Public Sector

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

The manifold challenges of today’s age require dedicated leaders in public service that equally understand the world of the private and the non-profit sector - often referred to as tri-sector competence. In this panel, we will explore remarkable career paths in and out of the public sector. Our speakers will also reflect on the opportunities […]

Panel: The Need for Speed: Transforming Mobility in Times of Rapid Change

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-306 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This panel aims to explore the ongoing transformation in the mobility sector. Climate change, changing societal demands, rapidly advancing technology and high competition posed by disruptive players in the various mobility industries - the mobility sector is poised for significant changes in the future. The main foci of the panel will be climate change, evolving societal […]

Workshop: Why is making progress so hard? An interactive intro to Climate & Negotiations

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-414 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

How can you negotiate successfully in a rigid process where more than 190 governments, organized in a complex web of formal and informal alliances, negotiate hundreds of technical and political issues that impact all aspects of how we live? Climate negotiations are complex; and they require a particular set of skills and analytical tools. This […]

Panel: Local is the New Global? The Role of Cities in Reviving Democracy

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-304 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

What needs to be done on a local level to boost democracy and facilitate social change? What are best-practices and use-cases? In an age where global dynamics constantly shift, we'll investigate the increasing influence of urban centers in shaping political landscapes. With Ulrich Hörning, Ana-Maria Trăsnea, Martin Klingst, and Maria Willett, moderated by Clara Péron

Workshop: Sustainability in Fashion with BCG

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-G-102 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This workshop will be only be held in German. This event will also have a session on Sunday. Du willst gemeinsam mit spannenden Persönlichkeiten an den wirklich wichtigen Themen unserer Zeit arbeiten? Dann bist du bei unserem Workshop genau richtig. Erhalte im Rahmen der German American Conference einen exklusiven Einblick in das, was dich im […]

Lunch for Studienstiftung and DAAD Scholars and Alumni

Harvard Kennedy School | Taubman Building, 5th Floor 15 Eliot St, Cambridge, MA, United States

The event is exclusively for scholarship recipients from the Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes and DAAD. If you are a current scholar or alumnus with either program, please join us! Please be advised of the changed location! It will be just outside of the main entrance.

Lunch Break

Harvard Kennedy School | Wintergarden 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Lunch with QuantCo Virdx

Henrietta's Table 1 Bennett St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Note: Application required, admittance limited to selected attendees The Virdx unit of QuantCo is hosting a lunch at Henrietta's Table on Saturday, October 28 from 12:30 to 1:30pm for a small, highly accomplished, and interested group of students and researchers. Virdx - the virtual diagnostics unit of QuantCo - is making non-invasive, dignified, and actionable […]

Panel: Rebuilding Ukraine, already now?

Harvard Kennedy School | LITTAUER L-145 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This panel discusses the urgent need and strategies for rebuilding Ukraine, exploring topics such as the EU and US perspectives on reconstruction, private investment during times of war, and international coordination for a successful reconstruction effort. With Nicola Beer, Beth McGrath, Mustafa Nayyem, Gulsanna Mamediieva, Konstantyn Chyzhyk, and Halyna Yanchenko, moderated by Martin Klingst

Panel: Born in Germany, raised in the US: Do all unicorns gallop into the Valley?

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

The panel discussion is designed to cater to startup founders, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, industry experts, and professionals interested in the dynamics of cross-border startup scaling. The event welcomes participants from both Germany and the United States, fostering cross-cultural exchange and networking opportunities. With Faruk Tuncer, Maurice Lee, Katharina Jünger, Eva-Maria Olbers, and Alexander Schmitt

Panel: Future of Biotech, Pharma and AI in Medicine

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

In a world undergoing rapid technological transformation, healthcare stands as a field profoundly impacted by innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), genetic engineering, and biotechnology. The integration of AI in healthcare offers transformative potential, yet it comes with a unique set of challenges and ethical considerations. Recent biotechnological breakthroughs spanning fields such as genetic engineering, […]

Workshop: Innovation in Media

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-414 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Join us for an exciting workshop hosted by funk, the digital content network of ARD and ZDF, where you'll uncover the secrets of innovation in media. Explore cutting-edge strategies, emerging trends, and creative techniques that are revolutionizing the media landscape. Whether you're an aspiring content creator or a researcher interested in science communication, this workshop […]

Food / Drink

Harvard Kennedy School | Wintergarden 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Fireside Chat: Climate Now: Climate, Sustainability, and Decarbonization

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-306 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking fireside chat with Dr. Fabian Schober, CEO of TÜV Süd America. He will explore questions such as how organizations can actively contribute to carbon emissions reduction and support decarbonization initiatives. With Dr. Fabian Schober

Workshop: The Future of Sustainable Logistics with DHL Consulting

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-434 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

As the world’s largest logistics company, DHL is committed to delivering more sustainable logistics solutions. Consultants from DHL Consulting will run a workshop to provide a holistic view on the logistics industry’s contribution to emissions, different decarbonization approaches and their viability. Through a case study, workshop participants will have the opportunity to determine how to […]

Workshop: From All Hell to Oh Well. How to Build Resilience

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

In today's challenging world, it's more important than ever to prioritize mental health, foster resilience, and promote a culture of empathy and support. In this workshop, Rick and Fairlee will explore with the participants how to navigate the complexities of life and build a society that truly takes care of one another. With Rick Wolthusen […]

Food / Drinks

Harvard Kennedy School | Wintergarden 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Panel: Why haven’t we cured cancer?

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Tremendous progress has been made in the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer since the first identification of cancerous cells. Still, about ten million people die from cancer globally every year. Modern biotechnologies such as CRISPR, as well as novel computer-based approaches like artificial intelligence and the use of Big Data show promising paths to […]

Panel: Land of the Free? Home of Bureaucracy? Building Transatlantic Environments for Innovation

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Fostering digital and green innovation is a salient topic. In this panel, we are looking at the cultural, legal and financial framework that enables and drives innovation in the US and Germany. We want to explore what Germany – often known as the home of bureaucracy – can learn from the US, and what has […]

Workshop: Innovation in Science Communication

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-304 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Join us for an engaging workshop on science communication where experts in the field will explore cutting-edge strategies and technologies that are reshaping the way we convey complex scientific concepts to the public. Discover creative approaches to bridge the gap between science and society and enhance your skills in effectively communicating scientific discoveries. With Stefan […]

Workshop: Pixels to Progress

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-414 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

In this interactive session, we will discuss to which extent collaboration on the digital city can lead to improved urban resilience and thus transform pixels into progress. The starting point of this discussion will be an interactive session where participants engage in the “Urban Digitope”, a serious game developed at the City Science Lab at […]

Workshop: Humanize Work with Deloitte

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-434 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Learn with Deloitte how technology and specifically AI will play a powerful and important role in enabling and accelerating key shifts transforming the world of work in today’s boundaryless world. How are Deloitte and its clients applying a human-centered approach that integrates Artificial Intelligence into the flow of work for the benefit of all? View […]

Coffee Break

Harvard Kennedy School 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Fireside Chat: Students as Diplomats? – On the History and Future of Transatlantic Student Exchange

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-414 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Germany and the United States share some of the oldest and most active student exchange programs in the world. Every year, tens of thousands of German and American students cross the Atlantic, many on exchange programs. For more than a hundred years, these programs have been founded on the hope that memories of Heidelberg or […]

Panel: Trade Technology Council

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-330 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

In this panel, we are exploring the intersection between commerce and innovation, and its profound influence on the transatlantic relationships - in light of the work of the Trade Technology Council’s work. The panel seeks to bring together a diverse group of experts from academia, the private sector, and individuals with experience in public sector […]

Panel: Regulating AI

Harvard Kennedy School | LITTAUER L-145 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Artificial Intelligence (AI) develops rapidly, demanding fast regulatory action. However, Artificial Intelligence poses formidable challenges from a technical, but in particular from a legal point of view. The challenges, opportunities and problems of regulating AI will be the topic of this panel. After exploring general concerns regarding the regulation of AI, the panel will develop […]

Panel: Young Voices Driving the Change in the World

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-332 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

One common stereotype about Gen Z is that they strive to have a positive impact on the world. But do they really? This event brings together five passionate and visionary young voices from North America and Germany. Join us for five short presentations on innovative ideas and actionable steps toward addressing pressing global challenges, showcasing […]

Fireside Chat: Navigating Heights: A Manager’s Journey in Career, Parenthood, and Leadership

Harvard Kennedy School | Rubenstein R-304 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

To balance work and life has become a crucial topic in the 21st century for leading a meaningful life and preventing burnout. During this event, Roman Gaida, a C-Level executive and the author of Working Dad and New Work in der Industrie, will discuss his personal journey of balancing a thriving career with the responsibilities […]

Discussion: On the Current Situation in Israel and Gaza

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

In this session, the speaker will start with some thoughts on the unfolding situation in Israel/Gaza, and on what has been happening on the Harvard campus and elsewhere. The remainder is meant to be a discussion and how it has affected people on our campus and beyond. Please see the Statement on the Current Situation […]