William L. Gertz Recognized by One To World for His Leadership in Global Education Expansion

William L. Gertz Honored by One To World

On May 19, 2026, William L. Gertz, the esteemed Chairman of the American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS), was celebrated at the Fulbright Awards Dinner hosted by One To World in New York City. This prestigious event acknowledges individuals who embody the spirit of cross-cultural understanding, a cornerstone principle advocated by Senator J. William Fulbright.

For over 40 years, Gertz has played a pivotal role at AIFS, transforming it into one of the leading providers of international education and cultural exchange programs. Under his leadership since 2018, AIFS has immensely expanded access to international studies and exchange opportunities for students across the globe. Since joining the institute in 1985, Gertz has confidently led AIFS through transformative growth and groundbreaking initiatives designed to provide diverse groups of students with invaluable global experiences.

Inspired by his travels throughout Europe and his personal experiences living in France, Gertz has openly championed the profound impact of travel and cultural immersion. He believes these experiences are not just enriching; they are essential in fostering a greater understanding across nations. During his acceptance speech, Gertz stated, "Travel and cultural exchange are among the most powerful tools we possess for building understanding between cultures and preparing future generations for global leadership. These experiences have shaped my life, prompting my commitment to creating meaningful engagement opportunities for students."

Fellow awardees at this significant event included notable changemakers such as Stephanie Benedetto, the CEO of Aloqia, and Dr. Nina Tandon, a Fulbright Scholar and CEO of EpiBone. The honorees exemplified the Fulbright tradition of promoting innovation, leadership, and intercultural awareness across various industries.

The Fulbright Awards Dinner not only recognized Gertz and his fellow honorees but also highlighted the vital role that international education and cultural exchange programs play in promoting global understanding and peace. These programs serve as bridges that connect different cultures, facilitating cooperative efforts that lead to a more cohesive world.

The AIFS stands on a proud foundation, having served approximately 40,000 participants yearly through diverse offerings including study abroad programs, global internships, and cultural exchanges like the au pair, camp counselor, and J-1 visa initiatives. The organization's commitment to accessibility is underlined by its scholarships, grants, and programs aimed at increasing opportunities for students from varied backgrounds to partake in international experiences.

Since its inception in 1964, AIFS has welcomed more than 1.8 million individuals into its educational fold, significantly shaping the narrative of international educational exchange. As Gertz continues his leadership journey, his vision remains focused on expanding these vital programs to ensure that all students can navigate and learn from diverse cultural perspectives around the world.