AIFS

AIFS is proud to support our friends at FIE: Foundation for International Education! Learn more about the Student Global Leadership Conference below and register today.

?? Advocacy in Action! My colleagues at AIFS and I had the opportunity to participate in Advocacy Day with the Alliance for International Exchange joining voices from across the country to champion the power of Department of State exchange programs. These programs, from BridgeUSA High School Exchange Visitor Program, Au Pair, Camp Counselor, Summer Work Travel, Intern/Trainee to Fulbright, foster diplomacy, strengthen global relationships, and create life-changing experiences for participants and communities alike. Thank you to the dedicated staff of the U.S. Representatives for taking the time to meet with us and discuss the impact of these programs. Your support is vital in ensuring that international exchange remains a cornerstone of U.S. public diplomacy. ?? Contact your representatives and urge them to support State Department exchange programs. Investing in these programs means investing in global understanding, economic growth, and national security. Let’s continue advocating for a more connected world! ???? #ExchangeOurWorld #AdvocacyDay #InternationalExchange #PublicDiplomacy #StudyAbroad #CulturalExchange

Today I had the opportunity to advocate on Capitol Hill with members of the Alliance for International Exchange for the critical role of #BridgeUSA programs and ECE funded exchanges in strengthening America’s security, economy, and global leadership. These programs are far more than just cultural experiences—they are strategic investments in public diplomacy, economic growth, and national security. Why They Matter: ?? A Safer America: Exchanges are a frontline tool in countering misinformation and strengthening people-to-people diplomacy. Alumni of these programs include world leaders, diplomats, and influencers who make decisions that directly impact our country’s security. ?? A Stronger Economy: Exchange visitors contribute billions to the U.S. economy each year—supporting local businesses, strengthening workforce pipelines, and building long-term trade relationships with their home countries. ?? A More Prosperous Future: These programs attract top talent, foster innovation, and expand America’s influence, ensuring the U.S. remains a hub for global talent and leadership. One of the most rewarding aspects of this visit was engaging with Members of Congress and their staff, who were thoughtful, engaged, and genuinely interested in how these programs impact their constituents. Despite the political divides we often see, there is bipartisan recognition of the value of exchanges—proof that smart diplomacy transcends partisanship. Advocacy isn’t just about policy—it’s about using our voices to protect what matters. Every conversation, every shared story of impact, helps ensure that these programs continue to thrive. Whether you’re a former participant, a host family, or simply someone who believes in the power of global connections, your voice matters. To those who have supported these programs—thank you. To those considering reaching out to your representatives—do it. Our elected officials want to hear from us, and their doors are open. Thank you to Andrea Bodine , Mark Overmann, Adrienne Jacobs,Gabrielle Cascio for organizing this important opportunity to advocate. #inled #advocacy Academic Year in America AIFS

Advocacy Days with the #AllianceforInternationalExchange have never been more important! AIFS is well represented and enjoying our time connecting with industry colleagues and elected officials. Off to a great start with the Congressional Reception at the Capitol Visitor Center and an inspiring speech from #SenatorCoryBooker on the value and importance of cultural exchanges and the power we all have to effect change in the world and be the light in a storm. Michele Kabel Graeme Marshall Claudia Goddard Laura Medina Christine Connally Maria Clements Tshifhiwa Mathoni Rachel Walker Nikola Milinkovic, EdM, DiSC, TOPPS, UN-ASAT, USPTR

The current pause on international exchange program funding adversely affects the well-being and future opportunities of thousands of Americans across the country and participants around the world. Take action now! Urge Congress to restore vital international exchange program funding:?https://lnkd.in/egEKHJQD #ExchangesMatter #CulturalExchange #ExchangesAreAmerica

How can we help? Over the past week, we’ve all witnessed the shocking devastation caused by the fires in southern California. Homes, schools, and community establishments have been destroyed, thousands of individuals have been displaced, and sadly many are injured or have lost family members. AIFS has made donations to the American Red Cross?and the World Central Kitchen. If you are able to, please join with us in donating to these organizations or other trusted relief organizations. Collectively, our contributions will help individuals and families with the food and supplies they need to recover – and eventually rebuild.

The creative juices are flowing here at AIFS HQ!

This #GivingTuesday, support global education by making a donation to the American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS) Foundation! Established in 1967 with the assistance of the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy, the AIFS Foundation helps people from around the world gain global competencies through firsthand, human interaction and opportunities to travel and study abroad. Fundraising efforts contribute to scholarships, grants, and programming that allows more deserving youth to learn about the world, other people and cultures, and to make the world a little smaller — and a lot more enlightened! We hope you will consider joining our mission of bringing the world together by making a donation today: https://lnkd.in/emn8nXBk

Happy Halloween from AIFS HQ! Our annual costume and pumpkin decorating contests were spook-tacular. Which is your favorite?

Time well spent attending Alliance for International Exchange Annual Conference in DC! Perfect environment to learn what’s new with ECA, network and hear from a great lineup of speakers. Thanks to Mark Overmann and his team for organizing this terrific opportunity.