By Parker Lamothe, Membership Communications Associate, Global Ties U.S.
In recognition of America’s semiquincentennial, the U.S. Department of State launched the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Freedom 250 Initiative. The IVLP is our country’s leading professional exchange program, connecting Americans across the country with current and emerging international leaders in government, business, and other key fields through short-term professional visits. From June 22 – July 10, 2026, nearly 200 IVLP participants were hosted by the nationwide Global Ties Network to explore 250 years of American innovation and excellence.
The initiative included eight concurrent multi-regional IVLP groups reaching over 60 Global Ties Network member organizations across the United States – one of the broadest nationwide engagements under a single IVLP initiative.
Photo provided by Brittany Lynk, International Visitor Liaison
Collectively, the international visitors participated in 453 professional meetings with American leaders in government, the private sector, academia, and community organizations, and engaged in 179 cultural activities, deepening their understanding of America’s achievements, legacies, innovation, and leadership. Each of the eight groups focused on a distinct aspect of American society, from the enduring legacy of the U.S. constitution to U.S. best practices in agricultural innovation, all connected by the common goal: to build and strengthen international partnerships.
Through meetings, site visits, and community engagement, the international visitors were introduced to the people and institutions that drive American innovation and civic life and experienced the rich history and traditions that have defined the American story for 250 years.
The initiative opened in Washington, DC, with national program administration and design led by the U.S. Department of State and Meridian International Center. DC programming included a visit to Mount Vernon, the historic riverside home of George Washington, where participants in the Agricultural Innovation and Technology group examined farming practices past and present, while those in the Cultural Heritage Preservation and Celebration group explored the preservation of one of the nation’s most historic and significant landmarks. Many visitors also attended a Washington Nationals vs. Philadelphia Phillies baseball game, representative of the historic significance of both cities’ roles 250 years ago. Visitors took photos with the Nationals mascot and joined local fans in celebrating the American traditions that surround the game.
Photo provided by Nana Imamovic, International Visitor Liaison
“Hosting the Freedom 250 Initiative in our nation’s capital was a powerful way to commemorate this historic milestone while welcoming global leaders to experience the United States firsthand,” said Myra Best, Ph.D., Director of IVLP at Meridian International Center. “Meridian was proud to partner with the U.S. Department of State and Global Ties U.S. to deliver an exchange that connected participants not only with American institutions, but also with the people, communities, and values that shape our nation.”
In Kansas, international visitors participating in the initiative’s U.S. State and Local Government IVLP explored U.S. government structure, including how local, state, and federal governments interact to engage citizens in policymaking, deliver public services, and uphold freedom of speech. In Kansas City, the group visited the Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics, where the Institute’s Public Education Manager selected a document, photograph, or gift connected to each participant’s home country. This thoughtful gesture created a unique connection to the Institute’s international work and gave the international visitors a keepsake to remind them of their time in the United States.
In Louisiana, international visitors participating in the initiative’s Cultural Heritage Preservation and Celebration IVLP explored U.S. leadership in cultural heritage preservation and its role in combatting antiquities trafficking. The visitors experienced the various ways in which American heritage is preserved and shared through artistic expression, including through jazz music. During a tour of the New Orleans Jazz Museum, a visitor notably called his country’s prime minister to show him the multimedia approach of the museum and share inspiration that was gathered during the various discussions. What began as a local museum visit became an opportunity to share American approaches with leadership halfway around the world.
Photo provided by Ksenija Keivanzadeh, International Visitor Liaison
In California, innovation came to life for participants in the initiative’s U.S. Science and Technology Entrepreneurship IVLP during a visit to Qualcomm’s Thinkabit Lab in San Diego. There, visitors learned about U.S. models of technology commercialization and the various ways to transfer scientific discoveries and technological breakthroughs to the market. The group participated in a high-energy, interactive tour of the lab, learning about Qualcomm’s global market presence in each visitor’s home country. By the end of the tour, the visitors were contributing ideas toward potential collaboration. The vibrant discussion demonstrated how exchange programs create opportunities for American companies and entrepreneurs to build relationships with international innovators.
The Initiative concluded in Philadelphia, where participants visited the National Constitution Center and Independence Hall, sites central to the American story and foundation. The eight groups shared presentations highlighting lessons learned, key takeaways, and the many ways this initiative strengthened relationships between international leaders and communities across the United States. The presentations underscored how communities had demonstrated leadership and expertise in a wide range of fields and topics.
Photos both provided by Nana Imamovic, International Visitor Liaison
“It was a pleasure to share these experiences with international visitors for their closing programs,” said Kyle Henry, Senior Manager of Programs at the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia. “The experience was especially meaningful as visitors explored these sites alongside Youth Diplomats—civically minded high school student volunteers passionate about welcoming the world and representing Philadelphia in international settings.”
From entrepreneurs and scientists to educators and local leaders, more than 1,300 Americans across the country showcased the expertise and innovation that continues to shape the nation and its global leadership. As one IVLP participant noted, “America became more than a destination. It became a collection of people, stories, and shared experiences.” Another international visitor reflected, “Some of our greatest lessons weren’t on the agenda, they were found in communities, culture and conversation.”
Through these exchanges, American communities strengthened relationships with international leaders and elevated expertise to be shown on a global stage, creating further opportunities for future collaboration.