Terror in the Shadows brings together four leading experts on illicit trafficking – in money, guns, diamonds and human beings - to analyze how these networks operate, interact, spread and provide vital support to terrorist networks around the world.

As Afghanistan holds its presidential election on October 9, growing instability, terrorism, and an opium industry spiraling out of control threaten the prospects for security, democracy and the rule of law. The panel will explore each of these interrelated topics, examining the nature of the opium industry; security threats from warlords, the Taliban and al Qaeda; and prospects for a free and fair election. The panel will also discuss the many challenges that remain for the new president, the Afghan people and the international community.

Missouri educators, business leaders, elected officials, researchers, students and parents will focus on teacher recruitment, retention, and training to create a new agenda for education in America. The Missouri forum is the fourth in a series of public forums to be held throughout the country to learn about local innovative and effective models for improving education. Upon completion of the final public forum, the Task Force will produce a major report with policy and program recommendations for modernizing and renewing public education in the United States.