CIEE Celebrates BridgeUSA Champions in Mackinac Island, Michigan
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This week, CIEE traveled to Michigan for the tenth stop on its nationwide BridgeUSA Celebration Tour, recognizing the communities, employers, and leaders who make the U.S. Department of State’s BridgeUSA international exchange programs a success. During a special roundtable event on Mackinac Island, CIEE was joined by Amy M. Newman, Deputy Director, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State; local business leaders; community advocates; and international participants to celebrate the impact of cultural exchange and honor those who exemplify the values of BridgeUSA.
The event highlighted the vital role BridgeUSA participants play in supporting local businesses, strengthening communities, and building international understanding. Mackinac Island and Mackinaw City are home to nearly 460 BridgeUSA participants this year, making the region a standout example of how cultural exchange contributes to local economic success and global engagement.
Awards for Community Leadership
Congressman Jack Bergman received a 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Champion Award for his advocacy and public diplomacy in Support of BridgeUSA.
Two organizations were recognized for helping international BridgeUSA participants become an integral part of the Mackinac Island Community, connecting international visitors with local businesses, residents, and community events to create meaningful cultural exchanges that extend far beyond the workplace.
A 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Champion Award for Community Excellence in Promoting International Exchange was presented to the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau in recognition of its commitment to welcoming international participants and showcasing the best of the region. Executive Director Tim Hygh accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
A 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Champion Award for Community Excellence in Promoting International Exchange was presented to the Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce. Executive Director Chuck Ball accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
Awards for Hospitality Excellence
The 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Hospitality Excellence Award honors employers who go above and beyond to ensure BridgeUSA participants feel welcomed, supported, and valued throughout their exchange experience.
A 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Hospitality Excellence Award was presented to Mackinaw Hotel Management in recognition of its outstanding commitment to ensuring BridgeUSA participants have an enriching experience on their program. Lauren Prevo, Human Resources Manager, and Keegan Neuman, Human Resources Assistant Manager, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
A 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Hospitality Excellence Award was presented to Treetops Resort in recognition of its exceptional commitment to creating a welcoming experience for international participants. Brian Smith, Food and Beverage Director; Brad Jacobson, Director of Ski Operations; and Cassidy Wieschowski, Director of Lodging, accepted the award.
A 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Hospitality Excellence Award was presented to Mackinac State Historic Parks in recognition of its dedication to providing a positive and memorable experience for BridgeUSA participants. Suzette Schmalzried, Sales Manager, and Dominick Miller, Chief of Marketing, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
Awards for Organizational Excellence
The 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Champion Award for Organizational Excellence recognizes employers that demonstrate exceptional leadership, partnership, and commitment to providing meaningful work opportunities and cultural exchange experiences for international participants. Each organization was recognized for creating supportive environments where BridgeUSA participants can develop professionally while experiencing American culture firsthand.
A 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Champion Award for Organizational Excellence was presented to Grand Hotel in recognition of its longstanding commitment to providing exceptional experiences for BridgeUSA participants. David Jurcak, President, and Susan Pavlopoulos, Vice President of Human Resources, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
A 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Champion Award for Organizational Excellence was presented to the Chippewa Hotel, Pink Pony, and Lilac Tree Hotel in recognition of the organization's dedication to participant support and cultural exchange. Brian Bailey, General Manager, accepted the award.
A 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Champion Award for Organizational Excellence was presented to the Harbour View Inn in recognition of its commitment to creating meaningful work and cultural exchange experiences for BridgeUSA participants. Becky Miller, Hospitality Services Manager, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
A 2026 CIEE BridgeUSA Champion Award for Organizational Excellence was presented to Hotel Iroquois in recognition of its leadership in supporting BridgeUSA participants throughout their exchange experience. Ellen Davey, Human Resources Manager, accepted the award.
As the BridgeUSA Celebration Tour continues across the country, CIEE will continue celebrating the employers, community leaders, and advocates who make these life-changing exchange programs possible and who help advance the mission of creating a safer, stronger, and more prosperous America through cultural exchange.