Department of State Exchange Programs

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U.S. Cultural and Academic Festival Showcases Over 125 Global Scholars and Student Leaders Participating In Department of State Exchange Programs


Media Note
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC

July 25, 2011




The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs will host over 125 participants for the inaugural Around the World in an Afternoon, a cultural and academic festival at the Department of State in Washington, D.C. This is the largest ever gathering of Study of the U.S. Institute participants who represent 30 countries, including Afghanistan, Angola, Burma, Colombia, Egypt, Iraq, Philippines, and Sudan. More than 115 undergraduate student leaders from 20 countries will share information about their countries and cultures through traditional dress, photos, cultural artifacts, and informal interactions with guests. Concurrently, 13 scholars representing countries from all major world regions will share their research through an academic poster session.
The event is open to the media and will take place on Thursday, July 28, 2011 between 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall of the Harry S Truman Building (2201 C St., NW, Washington, DC). Interviews with U.S. Department of State spokesperson can be arranged upon request. Press attendance is by RSVP only (contact information is available below).
Study of the U.S. Institutes bring scholars and student leaders from around the globe to the United States for five- to six-week intensive academic programs that serve to expand and strengthen people-to-people relationships and increase mutual understanding. During their academic program, participants are exposed to U.S. culture and diversity, and participate in community service, while focusing on a specific theme. The student leader institutes focus on such themes as new media, pluralism, social entrepreneurship, women’s leadership, and U.S. history and government. The scholar institute participating in the event focuses on American politics and political thought.
For more information, visit the Study of the U.S. Institutes websites: Scholars and Student Leaders.
Media Contacts: James Lawrence, LawrenceJA@state.gov, (202) 632-3241, or John Fleming, FlemingJT2@state.gov, 202-632-6454.


PRN: 2011/1232