Bipartisan gathering highlights the role of international exchange programs in strengthening American competitiveness, global leadership, and national security
WASHINGTON, D.C., June 10, 2026 — The Institute of International Education (IIE), in partnership with the Alliance for International Exchange, welcomed more than 125 guests to a bipartisan reception celebrating the newly launched Congressional International Exchanges Caucus at the U.S. Capitol.
The reception brought together members of Congress from both parties, international exchange alumni, higher education leaders, and representatives from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) to discuss how exchange programs advance American interests at home and abroad.
Launched in May by Sen. John Boozman (R-AR), Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ), Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ), and Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA), the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional International Exchanges Caucus was established to strengthen engagement with international exchange programs and raise awareness of their contributions to communities across the United States.
“Exchange programs remain one of America’s most effective tools for building relationships, fostering mutual understanding, and advancing our interests around the world,” said Sen. John Boozman. “The strong turnout and engagement at this event is an important reminder that these programs deliver meaningful benefits to communities across the country. I’m proud to see growing momentum behind the Caucus and its mission.”
Throughout the evening, attendees reflected on the role exchange programs play in fostering collaboration, strengthening diplomatic ties, and offering educational and professional opportunities.
“The success of America’s exchange programs has always rested on a unique partnership,” said Jason Czyz, President and CEO of IIE. “Congress provides the vision, the State Department provides leadership, and the exchange community brings that vision to life. Together, they create opportunities that connect Americans with the world, strengthen relationships with trusted partners, and prepare future leaders to advance our nation’s interests in every corner of the globe. It is a model of public-private collaboration that has served America well for eighty years and remains just as important today.”
The reception also highlighted the experiences of exchange program alumni, for whom participation in programs such as Fulbright sparked new interests, furthered career aspirations and inspired groundbreaking research or leadership on the world stage.
IIE looks forward to working alongside policymakers, U.S. government program sponsors, alumni, and partners to support international exchange programs and ensure these transformative opportunities remain a cornerstone of America’s global leadership.
About IIE
The Institute of International Education (IIE) is the leader in designing and implementing international education strategies and program services. We work with governments, policymakers, educators, and employers across the globe to prepare students and professionals for the global workforce and equip them to solve the increasingly complex challenges facing our interconnected world. With support from donors, we also create initiatives that assist students, scholars, and artists whose lives and work are threatened; expand teaching and learning across cultures; and provide life-changing opportunities. A not-for-profit organization founded in 1919, IIE has a network of offices and affiliates worldwide and over 1,600 higher education partners. Visit www.iie.org.