2013 Alliance Membership Meeting held October 24-25 in Washington D.C.

Jana Riedel from GACC California took part in the productive annual meeting to discuss challenges and currents trends in cultural exchange with other industry leaders. She was joined by Peggy Fleming, President of GACC California, on day two. “The spotlight is on all of us,” Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) Evan Ryan said during her opening luncheon remarks. “You all are tireless advocates for the value of exchange programs, in your home communities and to Congress. More people need to know that international exchanges advance our country’s global leadership.” More on the Alliance Annual Meeting.

One of the highlights was the adoption of a code of conduct by all member companies: Adopted September 2013: The members of the Alliance for International Educational and Cultural Exchange are nongovernmental organizations that conduct and support cultural and educational international exchange programs. The Alliance adheres to, promotes, and expects the highest ethical standards of professional practice among its membership. Standards of professional practice include: understanding and complying with all government laws, rules, and regulations; choosing the course of highest quality and integrity; offering the fullest possible equality of opportunity; and treating all individuals with dignity regardless of national origin. The Alliance and its members strive to avoid any action that may discredit the organization, its membership or the profession. The Alliance and its members work closely with the State Department and U.S. Embassies around the world to promote program equality and to ensure that participant satisfaction levels remain at their historically high levels. The Alliance experts compliance with its standard of integrity throughout its membership and will not condone actions that fail to comply with the law, regulations, or high standards of professional practice.