From January 23-26, the Global Ties Network and its partners took over the Marriott Wardman Park hotel in Washington, DC to explore “The Exchange Effect: Growing Impact at Home and Abroad.” Over 1,000 attendees, speakers, and guests convened through sessions, networking receptions, and plenaries as everyone celebrated the impact of exchange programs in individuals, communities, and across the world.
Here are just some of the highlights. Find more photos, videos, and other materials from the event.
All photo credit: A.E. Landes Photography
IVLP ALUMNI IN THE SPOTLIGHT: MINE ATLI
Mine Atli of Cyprus delivered stirring remarks on domestic violence, women’s rights, and grassroots activism as she accepted the IVLP Alumni Award for Social Innovation and Change. Read more
SESSIONS, SESSIONS, SESSIONS
The National Meeting is, above all, a professional development opportunity. Over 50 sessions from nonprofit management to programming best practices offered something for everyone. Find session materials
CITIZEN DIPLOMAT AWARD: SERVE2UNITE
Serve2Unite, a nonprofit in Milwaukee, WI that works against violent extremist ideology, held a lively on-stage discussion about their work and desire to build bridges across society. Read more
OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKER: CHARLES F. BOLDEN, JR.
As a former NASA Administrator, Maj. Gen. Charles Bolden shared with the Global Ties Network during the Opening Plenary how private-public partnerships in space exploration improve technology, strengthen collaboration, and ultimately serve humankind. Read the announcement
POSTER SESSION
For the second year, academics and researchers presented their work in international affairs, exchanges, and nonprofits at the National Meeting through the Poster Session. Learn more
OUR SUPPORTERS
The National Meeting would not be possible without its supporters in the hotel industry, tech field, and fellow nonprofits showcasing their support for exchanges in the Exhibit Hall.
DINE WITH THE WORLD
A signature event of the National Meeting, the Luncheon with the Ambassadors convened over 70 members of the foreign diplomatic corps for an afternoon of networking, learning, and inspiration.
TRIBUTES
Karen de Bartolomé (left) and Carol Engebretson Byrne (right) get ready to share farewell remarks at the Closing Celebration as they step down from leading WorldDenver and Global Minnesota, respectively. Sherry Mueller, former president of Global Ties U.S., delivered opening tribute remarks.
A NIGHT ON THE TOWN: EMBASSY RECEPTIONS
This year’s Embassy Receptions were generously hosted by the embassies of Argentina, China, Croatia, Finland, Malawi, Jordan, and Uruguay. A special gift of food and souvenirs from our members was presented to embassy leaders.
THE 2019 EMERGING LEADERS
This year’s cohort of Emerging Leaders represented our Network from Boston to San Francisco. From sessions to tailored workshops, many alumni go on to globally-oriented careers.
EVENING RECEPTION
The Global Ties Network gathered for a final reception to celebrate a successful and energizing National Meeting.
MEETING OF THE CHAIRS
Tim Horgan (left) hands off the Planning Committee baton to Katie Ferman, incoming chair of the National Meeting Planning Committee.
CAN I GET A WHAM!
A highlight of the Closing Celebration was the lip-sync performance of Wham!’s “Wake Me Up Before You Go Go” by our members and staff (left to right): Franzi Rook, Global Ties U.S.; Michelle Kulikauskas, Cultural Vistas; Wendy Anderton, Global Ties Arizona; Brittany Lynk, International Visitor Liaison.