Join us to celebrate the International Day of Friendship on Thursday, July 30th at 5pm PST to honor our members, volunteers, and partners who help us nurture global friendships and advance solutions to global challenges. The International Day of Friendship appreciates the significant bonds that encourage the fundamental shifts that are urgently needed to achieve lasting global stability and generate passion for a better world where all are united for the greater good. We are proud to welcome Susan Crystal, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Professional and Cultural Exchanges in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S Department of State, to discuss the critical importance of citizen diplomacy and its future. We will award Dennis and Verena Seisun the member of the year and Sureride Inc. our partner organization of the year for their outstanding support, and feature a Citizen Diplomacy Map with alumni stories.

Susan Crystal has served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Professional and Cultural Exchanges in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs since August 2018. She is responsible for overseeing a broad array of professional, youth, cultural and sports exchange programs for U.S. and foreign audiences, supported by the Office of International Visitors and the Office of Citizen Exchanges. Previous assignments include several positions in Human Resources, most recently as director of the Office of Career Development Assignments.  A public diplomacy officer, Susan held public diplomacy positions in Canada, Australia, Ecuador, Haiti, Mauritius and South Africa. Other Washington assignments include the Bureaus of Western Hemisphere Affairs and European Affairs, as well as other assignments in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Prior to joining the Foreign Service, she worked in constituent services for a Member of the United States Congress.  Originally from Pittsburgh, she is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University and holds a professional certificate in Leadership Coaching from George Mason University.

REGISTER FOR THE EVENT!