William L. Gertz Marks 40 Years of Leadership at AIFS with Passion for Global Education

Celebrating a Career of Dedication: William L. Gertz at AIFS



William L. Gertz, the esteemed Chairman of the American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS), is marking a notable milestone this year—his 40th anniversary with the organization. His journey into the realm of international education was sparked by a transformative backpacking adventure through Europe in 1973. During that summer, Bill traversed iconic cities such as Paris, London, and Rome, instilling in him a profound appreciation for cultural exchange and travel.

Reflecting on his early experiences, Bill remarked, "I didn't realize it at the time, but my career path was chosen for me right then and there." This realization fueled his passion, leading him back to the United States with a renewed outlook on life, where he recognized the pivotal impact of international travel.

After spending a few years gaining experience in the field, Bill joined AIFS as the Associate Director of Marketing in 1985. He was drawn to the organization’s mission of uniting the world through education and travel, a sentiment that resonated deeply with his own values. "When I arrived at AIFS in the summer of 1985, I knew I was home," he recalls, cementing a bond with the organization that would grow over the decades.

As AIFS evolved, Bill ascended the ranks, becoming President and CEO in 2005 and later being appointed as Chairman in 2018. Under his leadership, AIFS has expanded its offerings dramatically, reaching around 40,000 participants each year through an array of educational and cultural programs. Bill's commitment to innovation, while honoring the organization's roots, has been instrumental in AIFS's sustained relevance in a rapidly changing global landscape.

In recognition of his significant contributions to international education, Bill received the prestigious Centennial Medal from the Institute of International Education (IIE) in 2019. This accolade highlights his pivotal role in shaping educational exchanges that have enriched countless lives across the globe.

Looking ahead, Bill is dedicated to ensuring that AIFS remains at the forefront of global education. He emphasizes the importance of making international experiences accessible to underserved students, believing that every student deserves the opportunity to learn from the world. “The international experience should be available for every student because each one bears the promise of hope for the future. If we truly want a peaceful world, we need to bring it together first, one student at a time,” he asserts.

With his vision set on continuing as a leading figure for AIFS, Bill aims to foster a unified organization dedicated to international education in all its forms. His steadfast belief in the power of education and travel to transform lives serves as a guiding principle as he embarks on his next decade of leadership.

For more information about AIFS and its programs, please contact Ana Wright at [email protected].

About AIFS


The American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS) has been a pioneer in cultural exchange and educational programs since its inception in 1964. With a commitment to connecting individuals through study abroad, internships, and cultural experiences, AIFS has positively impacted the lives of over 1.8 million participants. Its diverse offerings adapt to the evolving landscape of global education, ensuring that every individual can take part in enriching international experiences.

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