CIEE Young Civic Leadership Summit Unites Global Leaders in Wisconsin Dells

The CIEE Young Civic Leadership Summit held this week in Wisconsin Dells is a landmark event that welcomes 50 exceptional international college students ready to take on the world. Spearheaded by the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), this summit provides a platform for future leaders to learn, connect, and develop essential skills for effecting change across cultural barriers.

Since its inception in 2013, the summit has facilitated the growth of more than 600 young change-makers from around the globe, empowering them to journey towards peace and collaboration amid national and cultural divides. This year's event is particularly significant as it honors Ambassador Johnny Young and Angie Young—diplomacy stalwarts known for their unwavering dedication to public service. Their legacy lives on as the summit molds tomorrow’s innovators and visionaries.

The Young Civic Leadership Fellows participating this year represent 26 different countries, showcasing the global nature of this initiative. Each of these students has spent their summer in the U.S. under the BridgeUSA Summer Work Travel program, working for various host employers and bringing their unique perspectives to American workplaces. Through this program, approximately 100,000 international college students engage in cultural exchange while contributing to local economies, enhancing the tourism season by over 50 days, and infusing billions into the U.S. economy.

During the summit, attendees will engage in various activities focused on practical leadership development and intercultural collaboration. Notable speakers, including Rebecca Pasini, who serves as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Private Sector Exchange at the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, will enlighten the participants on the critical role of cultural exchange in fostering not just personal growth but also international understanding and cooperation.

As part of CIEE's Community Impact Initiative, the fellows will participate in service projects benefitting local organizations like the Hope House of South Central Wisconsin, the Boys & Girls Club of Baraboo, and the Beyond Blessed Pantry. These initiatives align perfectly with the summit’s mission to instill a sense of service and responsibility among the leaders of tomorrow.

Corporate partners like Six Flags Entertainment Corporation and Skanska provide vital support for the summit, emphasizing the importance of the BridgeUSA program in enriching their businesses with diverse talent. According to Amy Therien, Vice President of People Operations for Six Flags, facilitating an environment that nurtures leadership potential among participants is integral to their operational excellence.

Dr. James P. Pellow, the President and CEO of CIEE, succinctly articulated the vision of the summit, stating that it effectively bridges the gaps between young people from different cultures. When these fellows head back to their home countries, they carry with them not only enriched leadership skills but also a deeper appreciation for American values and a global network of like-minded peers, ready to tackle the pressing challenges our world faces.

Founded in 1947, CIEE has been at the forefront of promoting international education and exchange. With over 1.5 million students participating in its programs across various countries, CIEE’s impact is profound. By engaging young minds in cultural exchange, they contribute significantly to global peace and understanding.

As the world grows more interconnected, the need for understanding and collaboration across cultures is paramount. The CIEE Young Civic Leadership Summit stands as a testament to the power of unity in diversity, preparing the next generation of leaders who will envision and drive forward a more peaceful future.

Topics People & Culture)

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