About the Award
The Global Ties U.S. Citizen Diplomat Award honors outstanding individuals and institutions in the United States who showcase American excellence and make a signature contribution to the powerful positive impact of exchange programs like the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) in the United States. Awardees are recognized as exceptional citizen diplomats, who are motivated by a commitment to the exchange of ideas and expertise that strengthens U.S. communities and furthers the cause of international understanding.
Nominees may be drawn broadly from many areas of society, such as arts and culture; science and technology; government service; nonprofit leadership; business; and education.
The award will be presented at the Global Ties U.S. 2026 National Meeting.
Who can submit a nomination?
Any current staff member associated with the Global Ties Network — CBM, NPA, and the Office of International Visitors — is invited to nominate outstanding resources and volunteers from their communities supporting the IVLP. Representatives from Global Ties U.S. and the U.S. Department of State will select the awardee.
2026 Award
Deadline for submissions: Friday, October 24 at 11:59 p.m. ET
The awardee will be notified by mid-December 2025 of their selection.