Dear Friends of Utah,
Each June, Utah Global Diplomacy hosts its Tribute luncheon - an event that recognizes and honors those who help advance its mission, programs, and services. When I started with Utah Global Diplomacy six years ago, this event quickly became one of my favorites because, for an organization that fosters people-to-people diplomacy, the people who show up to support the work of our organization are the backbone of the work we do; and after two very long years of postponing our Tribute event, I am grateful and humbled that we were able to host it last week.
I also want to give special recognition to our Citizen Diplomat award recipients, Jackie Biskupski, 35th Mayor of Salt Lake City; Sherrie Swensen, Salt Lake County Clerk; and Heber Ford, a student at Lone Peak High School.
One of our Young Diplomats of Utah, Ameena Ahmed, recently shared, "Young Diplomats of Utah [a Utah Global Diplomacy youth program] has taken my vague curiosity for diplomacy to a completely different level of understanding. Whether it's the diplomacy simulation or the cultural events we have the opportunity to attend, being a Young Diplomat has helped me find a passion for foreign affairs."
I believe this quote embraces the spirit of Utah Global Diplomacy – we take people's curiosity about diplomacy and foster a passion for foreign affairs.
Because of this passion, people from around the world meet many extraordinary people in Utah like you. So I want to say thank you to all of you who:
- meet with our international visitors and share your professional knowledge,
- open your home and host them for dinner or provide homestays,
- volunteered at our events,
- help move Utah Global Diplomacy forward by interning or volunteering in our office,
- to all of you who have donated to Utah Global Diplomacy.
I also want to give a special thank you to our Board of Directors for their passion and dedication, and to our Utah Global Diplomacy staff, whose energy, creativity, and tenacity amaze me every day.
With great appreciation,
Felecia Maxfield-Barrett
Executive Director
