Alumni Thematic International Exchange Seminars (Alumni TIES) are gatherings for U.S. government-sponsored exchange program alumni to network and learn about current foreign policy or public diplomacy topics. Participants explore issues of shared interest, receive training, and collaborate with fellow alumni to implement community-based projects. Through the small grants initiative, alumni have the opportunity to take action and make a positive difference in communities around the world.
Program Goals
Strengthen the U.S. Department of State’s ties to exchange alumni and build a sense of shared identity among participants of U.S. government-sponsored and U.S. government facilitated exchange programs.
Strengthen alumni voices and collaboration in support of major public diplomacy and U.S. foreign policy priorities.
Provide alumni participants current information about key foreign policy issues and leverage the expertise and enthusiasm of these established and emerging leaders to develop innovative solutions to address shared global challenges.
Build on the knowledge gained through exchange experiences and help alumni access, create, and sustain networks that advance mutually beneficial priorities and contribute to the global economy.
Support alumni-driven initiatives that address shared global challenges and promote mutual understanding between the home communities of alumni and communities around the globe.
Reflections
“It was such a building experience. One of the most amazing things about the seminar was the participants. I loved learning about them, their work, their challenges, and their experience. We learned a lot in the formal sessions and even more in the informal outings. One week felt like a month with so much learned.”
Participant of “Public Health and Climate Crisis in the Indo-Pacific”
in Bangkok, Thailand
“I really appreciated the opportunity to step back from my day-to-day and reflect on my work as part of a broader push around environmental protection, promoting environmental justice, and combatting the climate crisis. I also learned more about additional opportunities for alumni of U.S. State Department programs, and I hope to take more advantage in future.”
Participant of “Environmental Diplomacy and Its Impact on American Society”
in Denver, Colorado, USA
“This was an incredible learning opportunity that connected me with like-minded people from all sorts of backgrounds and experiences. What a great way to get inspired and motivated to continue making a difference! I learned a great deal and I am very thankful for this opportunity!”
Participant of “American Identity: Exploring Our Collective Memory,
Heritages, and Histories” in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
“Alumni TIES Cleveland provided an outstanding opportunity to connect with U.S. exchange alumni who share a passion for addressing substance use prevention, intervention, and recovery in their communities. The relatively small size of the group combined with the participant-driven structure and a duration of several full days enabled us to forge personal and professional connections with each attendee. Because of this, I feel condent that I will continue my personal and professional relationships with fellow Alumni TIES attendees long beyond the duration of the seminar.”
Participant of “Building Communities of Hope: Collective
Action to Tackle Addiction” in Cleveland, Ohio, USA
“Profound experience. It was amazing to be in the same room with so many passionate and like-minded individuals. The network that has been formed is invaluable.”
Participant of “Alumni in Action for Resilient Communities: Emergency
Response and Disaster Preparedness” in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
“Being at Alumni TIES Accra was a life-changing experience for me and I was really inspired and fueled to engage more on mentoring and coaching women entrepreneurs in my community.”
Participant of “Strengthening Business and Trade for
Women Entrepreneurs in Africa” in Accra, Ghana
“Without a doubt, it was one of the best organized workshops I have ever attended. I really appreciate the smooth communication with all organizers and valuable content of each training session.”
Participant of “Alumni Educators in Action: Media Literacy
and Critical Thinking in the Digital Age” in Kyiv, Ukraine