At the end of March, Executive Director Amy Alice Chastain, Programming Coordinator Bailey Shafer, and Board Secretary Marlén Mendoza went to Washington D.C. to attend the Global Ties U.S. National Meeting. This conference brings in international exchange and public diplomacy professionals from around the country for professional development and networking meetings. This was Bailey and Marlén’s first time attending the conference, with Amy Alice having attended before.
“It was exciting getting to connect with all the program officers from D.C. that I communicate frequently with through email but have never met before. I enjoyed finally putting faces to names,” said Bailey. “I also enjoyed connecting with individuals from other places throughout the country that coordinate programs. It was interesting hearing some of the things they do and made me think how they could be implemented in [eastern Iowa]!”
Bailey’s personal highlight of the trip was visiting the Danish Embassy for a reception.
“It was incredible getting to shake the Danish Ambassador to the US's hand and connect more with the Global Ties-affiliated individuals in attendance. There were several Danish interns that were my age working the event, so it was neat hearing about their lives back in Denmark and how the university systems differ,” said Bailey.
While they did not have much time outside the National Meeting to explore the many activities Washington D.C. has to offer, their visit coincided with the cherry blossoms being in full bloom.
“I enjoyed walking around the Capitol Mall and viewing the historic monuments with cherry blossoms in the background,” said Bailey. “A few years ago, I visited D.C. in the summer and really didn't enjoy my time there. This time was completely different... I loved it!”