Exchange Matters / February 26, 2016

Highlights from #IAmDiplomacy

THE LOCAL MET THE GLOBAL

The Luncheon with the Ambassadors is our signature event, offering attendees the opportunity to network with close to 50 members of Washington’s diplomatic corps. This year’s event featured a rich discussion on the work of state and local government in globalizing economies, with Amb. Stuart Holliday, President and CEO of the Meridian International Center, moderating a discussion with Mary Taylor, Lt. Governor of Ohio, and Mike Rawlings, Mayor of Dallas. John Zogby then discussed polling in an international context, and members of the network reflected on the different ways you can say “I am Diplomacy!”

EXCHANGES MATTER ACROSS SECTORS

The Global Ties U.S. 2016 National Meeting kicked off with Exchanges Matter! A Strategic Dialogue on Advancing Peace & Security through International Exchange Programs. Members of Congress, Administration officials, and leaders from the nonprofit sector and the military and diplomatic corp came together to explore the role of international exchanges as a pillar of U.S. smart power and strategic global engagement.

HONESTLY REFRESHING INSIGHT

Seth Goldman was honored with the 2016 Citizen Diplomat of the Year Award during the Citizen Diplomacy Luncheon on Friday. In his speech, Goldman asked, “Why can’t U.S. innovation help change people’s lives to improve their help, to drive them in a positive direction?” This question would become essential to the Honest Tea mission, and governs the company’s relationship with its buyers and sellers. All products are certified fairtrade and organic, which ensures that labor conditions and wages meet international standards, and that communities will not be impacted by synthetic chemical inputs and utilize sustainable agriculture.

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