Highlights of the Second Annual CIEE International Exchange Conference (IEC)
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Yesterday, in Washington D.C., global exchange leaders convened for the first full day of the second annual CIEE International Educational Exchange Conference (IEC).
Through a series of keynotes and panels featuring diplomats, BridgeUSA alumni, and thought leaders, IEC attendees celebrated how BridgeUSA makes America safer, stronger, and more prosperous, and envisioned how international exchange will remain central to building trust, peace, and opportunity in the future.
Some highlights from the day of presentations and conversations:
---- The Story of BridgeUSA’s Past, Present, and Future -----
Rick Ruth, Former Senior Advisor, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State Affairs, in conversation with James Pellow, President & CEO of CIEE, explored BridgeUSA’s origins under the Fulbright-Hays Act and its evolution into a cornerstone of U.S. public diplomacy.
----- The Power of BridgeUSA – Economic Prosperity & Diplomatic Relations -----
Former Ambassador Daniel Mulhall and former Assistant Secretary of State Marie Royce, MBA discussed how BridgeUSA programs foster economic growth, strengthen international partnerships, and build lasting diplomatic relationships. Moderated by Carmen Iezzi Mezzera, Executive Director, The Coalition for American Public Diplomacy and Leadership (CAPDL) and Leadership (CAPDL).
----- The Intersection of BridgeUSA, Public Diplomacy, and a Safer, Stronger, and More Prosperous America -----
Dr. Vivian Walker, Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University and Co-President of the The Public Diplomacy Council of America, in conversation with Asenith T. Dixon Bell, Vice President for Government Affairs and Advocacy, CIEE, examined how international exchange supports national security and diplomacy by fostering mutual understanding and resilience.
----- Made Impact – Million Stories -----
Chris Arnold, Founder of Made Impact, and Jackson M'vunganyi, award-winning broadcaster and global storyteller, highlighted how storytelling and data are amplifying the peacebuilding power of exchange through the Million Stories initiative.
----- Best Practices: BridgeUSA Community Engagement -----
A diverse panel of host organizations, families, and community advocates shared strategies for integrating BridgeUSA participants into local communities, highlighting how exchange fosters mutual understanding and community vitality. Moderated by Louisa Creighton Smith, Director of Host Relations, CIEE.
----- BridgeUSA Participant Spotlight -----
Current participants and alumni shared their personal stories of growth, leadership, and cross-cultural connection — showcasing the transformative power of international exchange to shape careers, perspectives, and lives. Moderated by Stacy Benjamin, Director of Special Programs, CIEE.