The Excellence in Advocacy Award was established in 2002 to recognize the exceptional contributions of members of Global Ties U.S. to advocate on behalf of the important work of our network. Recipients are experts at building long-term relationships with U.S. Members of Congress and their staff members. They advocate for sound policies and increased resources for the U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program and other exchanges.
This award is presented to an individual who has rendered exceptional service to the Global Ties network by educating their elected representative and showing them the positive impact exchange programs have on U.S. communities and hosts, the foreign leaders who participate, and U.S. foreign relations.
2011 / Carol Engebretson Byrne
President, the Minnesota International Center
2007 / Janet Elliott
Executive Director, International Visitors Council of Los Angeles
2003 / Thomas Baldridge
Executive Director, Council for International Visitors to Iowa Cities
2003 / Bruce Buckland
Former Global Ties U.S. Board Chair, The World Affairs Council of St. Louis
2002 / Nancy J. Gilboy
Executive Director, International Visitors Council of Philadelphia
2002 / Grace Mayes
President, Akron International Friendship