American Councils for International Education

Last week, nine senior staff and directors from American Councils for International Education joined over 160 international exchange professionals on Capitol Hill for #2025AdvocacyDay, organized by the Alliance for International Exchange. We met with 27 offices of U.S. Senators and Representatives to highlight how international exchange programs directly advance America’s security, global competitiveness, and economic growth. Exchange programs are essential tools for strengthening bilateral U.S. alliances, expanding global business networks, and equipping Americans with the skills needed to lead in an increasingly competitive world. Robust U.S. investment in strategic language study, public diplomacy programs, workforce training, and entrepreneurship opportunities equips Americans for continued leadership in the global economy and strengthens our ability to combat threats to our national security. Moreover, 90% of funds from the Department of State exchanges budget is spent in the U.S. on transportation, lodging, meals, and related costs, bolstering the U.S. economy.  At American Councils, we see firsthand how international education builds trusted partnerships, supports national interests, and helps position the United States as a global leader. With over 50 years of experience and a network of 100,000+ alumni, we remain committed to advancing international exchange as a strategic investment in a safer, stronger, and more prosperous future for America.    #ACGlobal #ExchangesImpact #WhyWeExchange #AdvocacyDay 

International exchange programs are American at their core. Approximately 90% of the Department of State exchanges budget is spent on Americans or in America. Without funding, more than 3,500 American youth, students, and professionals currently abroad on Department of State programs are essentially stranded without the vital financial stipends needed for their livelihood.  Act now and urge Congress to protect these American programs by restoring vital exchange funding: https://lnkd.in/egEKHJQD #ExchangesAreAmerica #ExchangesMatter #ExchangesImpact 

Celebrating a visionary! ✨ Staff, alumni, and friends came together to honor KAEF founder Dale Pfeiffer as he received the prestigious Presidential Medal of Merit. Congratulations, Dale! Your dedication continues to shape Kosovo’s future. A heartfelt thank you to President Vjosa Osmani for this incredible recognition!

On February 18th, President Vjosa Osmani conferred Presidential Honors in celebration of the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s independence. Among the recipients was KAEF Founder, Dale Pfeiffer, who was awarded the Presidential Medal of Merits in recognition of his contributions to strengthening U.S.-Kosovo relations and advancing peace, democracy, and development in the Republic of Kosovo.   We are proud to see Dale’s impact recognized at the highest level and extend our gratitude to President Osmani for this meaningful acknowledgment! American Councils for International Education

American Councils for International Education is profoundly saddened by the tragic mid-air aviation accident over the Potomac River near Washington, DC. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking event. As emergency responders continue their efforts, our hearts go out to the families, loved ones, and communities experiencing this tremendous loss, particularly our community here in Washington, DC. Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by this tragedy. 

Happy Lunar New Year from American Councils! ✨🐍  As we welcome the #YearOfTheSnake, we extend our best wishes to all who celebrate this tradition. Lunar New Year marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar.  While customs and observances vary across cultures, this celebration is a time for reflection, family reunions, and new beginnings. May this Lunar New Year bring happiness, health, and prosperity to you and your communities.  #ACGlobal #LunarNewYear #LunarNewYear2025

Launched in 1940, the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is the U.S. Department of State's foundational professional exchange program. Each year, U.S. embassies nominate thousands of international leaders in government, business, academia, and other fields to participate in the IVLP. Learn more about the IVLP at https://eca.state.gov/IVLP. #IVLP

 Happy International Day of Education! Created by the United Nations Foundation and sponsored by UNESCO, #InternationalDayofEducation highlights education’s pivotal role in advancing peace, development, and global security. Each year, American Councils engages thousands of participants from over 140 countries through virtual and in-person programs, connecting international communities and cultivating cross-cultural collaboration. From educational exchanges and professional development to language immersion programs, our initiatives enhance global understanding and America’s leadership on the world stage. Whether it’s an exchange between teachers, a year abroad to study a critical language, or a delegation of entrepreneurs visiting a foreign country, every program we administer advances a shared goal to expand knowledge and promote prosperity. #ACGlobal #InternationalEducation

The Alliance congratulates Secretary of State Marco Rubio on his confirmation, and on being sworn in, as the 72nd Secretary of State this week. During his remarks to Department of State staff, Secretary Rubio emphasized the need for a pragmatic U.S. foreign policy that makes America safer, stronger, and more prosperous. We are optimistic that this mission for the Department will translate into the Secretary's strong support of international exchange programs, which meet those important criteria. Exchanges make America safer by advancing U.S. interests and values around the world. Exchanges make America stronger by creating future American leaders and telling America's story to the world. And exchanges make America more prosperous by bringing billions of dollars to the U.S. economy and creating hundreds of thousands of jobs for Americans. The Alliance looks forward to working with Secretary Rubio in his new role and to promoting and expanding Department of State international exchange programs.

한국어를 공부하고 계신가요? 더 능숙해지고 싶으신가요? If so, join us next week for a virtual info session about the Korean Intensive Summer Language Program (KISLP). Details below!