What if the board game on your table could teach history, inspire diplomacy, or even train spies? Join us for an extraordinary evening with Gary Dodson, a Staunton native, former CIA officer, and award-winning game designer, as he uncovers the surprising world of board games beyond family fun night.
What You’ll Experience:
Step Back in Time: Explore commercial games inspired by Woodrow Wilson’s era, diving into the 1912 election, women’s suffrage, World War I, and the Treaty of Versailles.
A Spy’s Tool: Discover how the CIA uses custom-designed board games to train intelligence officers and collaborate with global partners—revealing the art and strategy behind the design.
Behind-the-Scenes Insight: Learn about four unique games Gary created for the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, including Over There and Hat Pins, as well as a Cold War-inspired project for the Cold War Museum.
Why Attend?
Gary’s 36-year career with the CIA included a groundbreaking focus on using board games for analytical and training purposes, earning him accolades like the CIA’s Director of Analysis Award for Innovation. His work has been played in 40 countries and translated into six languages, engaging everyone from senior U.S. military officers to students.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a board game fan, or simply curious about the innovative ways games can educate and train, this talk will open your eyes to the untapped potential of play.
🗓 Monday, January 27 | 7:00 PM
📍 Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library
