In November 2004, American Studies assistant professor Alex Lubin presented "Intimate Enemies: The Politics of Marriage and Demography in the Israel-Palestine Conflict," based on research he conducted with an FRI grant.

In September 2004, the FRI sponsored a forum on "Challenges for Women in Politics" that enabled prominent New Mexico female politicians to discuss both the upcoming election and barriers facing women in the political process. Panelists included Lieutenant Gov. Diane Denish, Sen. Dede Feldman, Rep. Danice Picraux and Attorney General Patricia Madrid.