By Ann Acka’a, Contributing Editor
Diplomatic Watch amongst several notable guests was also warmly welcomed to Global Ties U.S. Regional Summit “Diplomacy Begins here” which took place recently in the beautiful city of Charlotte, North Carolina (NC). The event was hosted by International House, NC -with a catchy slogan: “Charlotte welcomes the world”- along with the Palmetto Council for International Visitors in Columbia, South Carolina at the fabulous Omni Hotel. Later in the evening, participants were treated with an excellent networking reception at Chima SteakHouse.
The event brought to light more than ever the great heart of America to hear the Region’s leading voices on economic growth, brilliant ideas, entrepreneurship and exploration of the diplomatic world which came synergistically together.
North Carolina opened her doors welcoming many international agents, leaders and visitors from within and outside the US. The coming together of this vast rainbow of positive change agents created opportunities to network and to share an immense array of knowledge with a global community.
The summit explored key factors driving the region’s economic growth and entrepreneurship in addition to the importance of public diplomacy and international exchanges. The programs were conceptualized to empower people and communities to foster positive change within themselves, their organizations and society.
The summit aforementioned attracted notable personalities who were international, national and local leaders ranging from economic and policy experts, outstanding students and Officials of the U.S. State Department to name a few.
The goal of the Summit at best was achieved as it left a new perspective on how people and or organizations can work together and make a difference across borders while leveraging on expertise and entrepreneurial skills in the process.
Some of the participants to name a few at the event include: Congress Woman Alma Adams, Ph.D.; Scott Adams, Dean of Business, Columbia International University; Johnelle Causewell,Citizen Diplomacy Program Director, International House; Elaine Marshall, North Carolina Secretary of State; Solvita Jirgensone, Board Chair, Apvieniba JUMS and IVLP Gold Star; Chris Miner, Managing Director for Professional and Cultural Exchanges, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State; Rusty Reynolds, Executive Director International House; Whitney Savageau, Supervisor Special Agent, Diplomatic Security,. U.S. Department of State, amongst others.
Much gratitude to Johnell Causewell, International House, NC; Katherine Brown,Ph.D., President & CEO of Global ties, U.S and the very hardworking staff of Global Ties U.S. who made the program unforgettable.
