CIEE Global Community Gives Back, Raises Over $30K for Scholarships and Programs

This year’s Giving Tuesday was nothing short of inspiring. Across continents and time zones, the CIEE community came together with generosity, enthusiasm, and a shared belief in the power of global exchange. With the collective support of alumni, parents, staff, partners, and friends, our Giving Tuesday campaign exceeded every expectation—and demonstrated what’s possible when we unite with purpose.

Thanks to 108 donors from 11 countries, we raised $30,573, surpassing our goal and securing our $10,000 match. Every gift helps open doors for the next generation of learners ready to explore the world.

These funds will support a wide range of transformative opportunities: BridgeUSA Young Civic Leaders Fellows, College Study Abroad Scholarships, High School Global Navigator Scholarships, BridgeUSA International Student Scholarships, College Study Abroad Douglass–O’Connell Global Internships, and unrestricted gifts that can help meet immediate needs and continue to expand access even further.

Voices From Our Global Community

Jim Pellow, President & CEO, CIEE
“Every intercultural exchange advances peace by building bridges of mutual understanding. We at CIEE are grateful for the generosity of our community that enables us to connect more people across cultures and continents. Together we’re opening doors for students, transforming lives, and building a more understanding, compassionate, and peaceful world.” 

Patricia Witzig, CIEE Program Manager in Madrid 
“The High School Summer Abroad program means so much to me. I get to see, and later hear back from, students who tell us their summer in Madrid changed their lives. Giving back makes this possible for more students and I’m happy to contribute to their success.”

Lorena Castro, First-Time Donor and CIEE Alumna
“As alumni, we know what it meant to step into a new culture, learn a language, or take on an internship abroad, and how much care and support we received along the way. CIEE changed my life, and making my first gift this Giving Tuesday felt like the right way to give back.”

Silvia H., CIEE Parent
“CIEE supported our son every step of the way and gave him an experience that truly shaped who he is becoming. Giving back is our way of saying thank you and helping the next student begin their own journey.

Jennifer Higgins Pitre, VP of Philanthropy & Proud CIEE Parent
“Giving Tuesday showed us what’s possible when our global community comes together. I’m deeply inspired by the generosity and by the future we’re building together—one where every student, no matter their background, has access to transformational global experiences.”

Looking Ahead: Ending the Year with Purpose

Giving Tuesday may be behind us, but the impact continues. Donor giving provides CIEE participants with opportunities to engage with new cultures, acquire knowledge, and develop skills to lead with courage, empathy, and understanding. These experiences stay with them long after they return, shaping how they lead, connect, and strengthen the communities around them.

If you'd like to extend the spirit of Giving Tuesday into year-end giving, you can make a gift at CIEE.org/give. Every contribution, large or small, helps to ensure that even more students can dream bigger, explore further, and develop into globally engaged citizens.

Thank you for advancing CIEE’s mission to change lives and build bridges of mutual understanding between people, nations, and cultures.