Diplomacy Begins Here Regional Summits bring together leaders in business, government, and nonprofit organizations to forge new connections with local communities around exchange programming and issues. They also serve as an opportunity for local communities to deepen their understanding of U.S. foreign policy, public diplomacy, and the benefits of exchanges like the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).
Hosted in partnership with the U.S. Department of State and Global Ties U.S. Community-Based Members, the Summits take place several times each year in various cities across the country. Each Summit involves a day full of sessions, keynotes, and other activities to promote awareness and support of international exchange programs. Anyone is welcome to attend a Diplomacy Begins Here Regional Summit. Registration fees vary based on affiliation.
An additional component of the Summit is the Learning Lab: A tailored workshop for Global Ties Network Members* to share their knowledge and expertise with each other on topics relevant to exchange programming, nonprofit management, and professional development.
*This includes representatives from the Office of International Visitors, National Programming Agencies, and Community-Based Members.
2024 SUMMIT & LEARNING LAB SCHEDULE
There were two events this year. View the 2024 announcement HERE.
- July 11-12 | Kalamazoo, MI
Theme: Global Challenges: Building Locally Driven Solutions in Kalamazoo
Hosted by Global Ties Kalamazoo - September 23-24 | New Orleans, LA
Theme: Crescent City Connections: Creativity Through Exchange
Hosted by Global New Orleans
QUESTIONS
For immediate questions or concerns, please contact Membership@GlobalTiesUS.org
Please note that health and safety protocols for these events will be determined by the local host CBMs based on local conditions and regulations. More detailed information from each host will be available two months in advance of each event.
The Diplomacy Begins Here Regional Summits and Learning Labs are sponsored by the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and administered by Global Ties U.S.
