Mikhail Gorbachev (Brown.edu photo)
Mikhail Gorbachev, who led the Soviet Union during the historic final years of the Cold War, has accepted an invitation to speak at the University of Wyoming this fall.
Gorbachev will speak Friday afternoon, Oct. 14, at UW's Arena-Auditorium. The event will be open to the public and will occur during UW's Homecoming weekend. Additional details are currently being finalized.
Gorbachev served as head of state to the Soviet Union, including during its dissolution in 1991. Gorbachev is widely known for his reform measures as well as summit conferences with United States President Ronald Reagan. Gorbachev, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1990, is credited for his reorientation of Soviet strategic positions which coincided with the end of the Cold War.
"Mikhail Gorbachev is unquestionably one of the most influential world leaders of the 20th century. He will rank among the most significant personalities who have ever spoken on the University of Wyoming campus," said UW President Tom Buchanan. "This will be an incredible opportunity for our students, faculty, alumni and the Wyoming community to listen and interact with a world-changing political figure."
Retired U.S. Sen. Alan K. Simpson will serve as moderator for the event.
