2025 BridgeUSA Champion Awards – San Antonio

CIEE senior leaders were in San Antonio, Texas, earlier this week as part of our three-year-long celebration of the U.S. Department of State's BridgeUSA international exchange programs that make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.

To be successful, BridgeUSA programs require champions at all levels – strong community leaders, influential business leaders, dedicated BridgeUSA sponsors, and hardworking participants. CIEE’s BridgeUSA Celebration Tour is traveling across America to recognize and celebrate these champions.

Yesterday, in San Antonio, we highlighted the local champions who make BridgeUSA programs possible, alongside the international participants who bring these programs to life.

CIEE senior leadership with Rebecca Lopez, Sr. Principal, IDEA South Flores College Preparatory.

Community Leadership Awards

• Rebecca Lopez, Sr. Principal, IDEA South Flores College Preparatory, was recognized for her leadership in education and commitment to expanding opportunities that empower young people and strengthen the San Antonio community.
• Dr. Sukh Kaur, San Antonio Councilmember, District 1, was honored for her dedication to education, economic development, and building a more equitable city. As the first South Asian to serve on the San Antonio City Council, Dr. Kaur has championed policies that improve the quality of life for all residents.

CIEE senior leadership with Sukh Kaur, San Antonio City Councilmember for District 1.

Global Engagement Excellence Awards

The City of San Antonio’s Global Engagement Office was recognized with multiple honors for advancing diplomacy, protocol, and cultural exchange:

• Martha Henry, International Relations Manager, for her long-standing service in strengthening San Antonio’s global reputation and partnerships.
• Tanzila Kaiumova, Senior International Relations Specialist, for her expertise in fostering cross-cultural understanding and building relationships with San Antonio’s sister and partner cities.
• Samantha Skory, International Relations Specialist, for her dedication to expanding international opportunities for San Antonio residents and cultivating global connections.

CIEE leadership with City of San Antonio Global Engagement Office representatives (from left): Tanzila Kaiumova, Senior International Relations Specialist; Samantha Skory, International Relations Specialist; and Martha Henry, International Relations Manager.

Organizational Excellence Award

Nick Almendarez, Senior HR Manager at the Marriott Gaylord Texan Resort and Conference Center, received the award for organizational excellence. The Gaylord Texan, a new CIEE host site, has integrated Project SEARCH into its staffing model, creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

CIEE senior leaders with Nick Almendarez, Gaylord Texan, Senior HR Manager at Marriott Gaylord Texan Resort and Conference Center.

Host Family Champion Award

Melissa Killen, a Host Parent in CIEE’s BridgeUSA High School program, was celebrated alongside her husband, Rob Killen, Chair of the Metro San Antonio Chamber, and their daughter, Emily. Hosting their first exchange student, Jana from Germany, the Killen family has embraced the spirit of cultural exchange, exemplifying the warmth and generosity that make these programs thrive.

CIEE senior leadership with Rob and Melissa Killen, CIEE BridgeUSA High School Host Parents, plus their daughter Emily and Jana, their host student from Germany.

Congratulations to all the 2025 BridgeUSA Champion Award winners!