On Friday, February 21, the Institute for Education (IFE) held “The AI Edge: Policy, Partnerships & Pioneers Driving Tomorrow’s Technology,” an exclusive dinner of diplomats, private sector leaders, and Presidential Innovation Fellows convened at the historic Belgian residence in Washington, D.C. Co-hosted with His Excellency Frédéric Bernard, Belgium’s newly appointed Ambassador to the United States, together with IFE Founder and CEO Coach Kemper, and IFE President Dr. R. David Edelman, the evening served as a high-level forum for meaningful discussions on the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The event brought together key figures from the AI Presidential Innovation Fellows program, whose expertise spans critical U.S. federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Office of Management and Budget, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Their presence underscored the growing intersection of AI, governance, and global strategy, setting the stage for an engaging and thought-provoking dialogue.
Ambassador Frédéric Bernard opened the evening with warm and insightful remarks, recognizing the distinguished guests and emphasizing the importance of transatlantic collaboration in the evolving AI landscape. His gracious welcome fostered an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity and partnership, setting the tone for a night of robust discussion. Coach Kemper announced that Ambassador Bernard will continue the 32-year partnership between IFE and Belgium, assuming the role of IFE Diplomatic Steward.
The dinner conversation quickly delved into AI policy shifts, focusing on the transition between outgoing and incoming U.S. administrations and the European Union’s strategic response. From there, the dialogue expanded organically, touching on a wide range of critical issues at the intersection of technology, policy, and international cooperation. Each guest brought unique insights, contributing to a dynamic, forward-thinking exchange that reflected the urgency and complexity of AI governance in a rapidly evolving world.
From policy frameworks to ethical considerations, the discussions reaffirmed the need for international cooperation in ensuring that AI advances responsibly and equitably. The event served as a testament to the power of dialogue and diplomacy, reinforcing that the future of AI will be defined not just by technological advancements but by the strength of the partnerships behind them.
Chef Wout Sabbe treated guests to a meticulously curated Belgian menu featuring a selection of gourmet European dishes: Roasted cauliflower soup with basil, Marinated mackerel with buttermilk, beetroot, and mint, Pork tenderloin with foie gras, Belgian endives, and cranberries, and White chocolate panna cotta with raspberries. The meal was accompanied by a superb wine selection, showcasing European favorites such as Pierre Ponnelle Mâcon-Villages, Bourgogne, and Les Allées Pinot Noir 2021, Bourgogne—each carefully chosen to complement the evening’s refined ambiance.
From policy frameworks to ethical considerations, the discussions reaffirmed the need for international cooperation in ensuring that AI advances responsibly and equitably. The event served as a testament to the power of dialogue and diplomacy, reinforcing that the future of AI will be defined not just by technological advancements but by the strength of the partnerships behind them.
Chef Wout Sabbe treated guests to a meticulously curated Belgian menu featuring a selection of gourmet European dishes: Roasted cauliflower soup with basil, Marinated mackerel with buttermilk, beetroot, and mint, Pork tenderloin with foie gras, Belgian endives, and cranberries, and White chocolate panna cotta with raspberries. The meal was accompanied by a superb wine selection, showcasing European favorites such as Pierre Ponnelle Mâcon-Villages, Bourgogne, and Les Allées Pinot Noir 2021, Bourgogne—each carefully chosen to complement the evening’s refined ambiance.
An evening of intellectual exchange, culinary excellence, and meaningful engagement, the AI Edge dinner was more than just a conversation—it was a step forward in shaping the policies, partnerships, and pioneers that will drive tomorrow’s technology.
SPOTTED: H.E. Frédéric Bernard (Belgium), Chargée d’Affaires Sophie Karlshausen (Belgium), H.E. Francisco Duartes Lopes (Portugal), DCM Ruth Bajada (EU), Coach Kemper, Dr. R. David Edelman, Kelsey Kemper Valentine, Wole Moses, David Fenstermaker and AI Presidential Innovation Fellows John Cronin (DoD), Cherreka Montgomery (DoE), Pranava Raparla (DoE), Arushi Saxena (OMB), Rachel Shi (DoE), and Matthew Versaggi (CMS).
View: Event photos | Round-up
