On Friday, January 24, Alison Grausam, Senior Program Specialist with Graduate School USA’s International Institute, was awarded “Outstanding Program Associate” at the 2020 Global Ties U.S. National Meeting. The distinction is reserved for professionals who work for one of the eight organizations in Washington, D.C. that administer the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). Finalists in each category were voted by stakeholders in the network from other award categories. GSUSA’s Nathan Eckman, Program Officer, International Programs, was also among the three finalists.
The IVLP is the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program. Through short-term visits to the United States, current and emerging foreign leaders in a variety of fields experience this country firsthand and cultivate lasting relationships with their American counterparts. Since 1961, Global Ties U.S. has supported the IVLP, through the commitment and skills of Global Ties U.S. members across the United States to develop local professional programs, arrange cultural activities, and provide home hospitality for IVLP participants.
The State Department’s Program would not be as powerful and impactful without the efforts and commitment of dedicated individuals who create stellar exchange programs that leave lasting impressions on both participants and American hosts. In support of continued programming excellence, Global Ties U.S. annually honors and recognizes exemplary members of their network with the Excellence in IVLP Programming Awards at the National Meeting.
The entire Graduate School USA team congratulates both Alison and Nathan for the well-deserved recognition of their outstanding work.