World Affairs Council of Kentucky S

Exchange Program-The World Affairs Council (WAC) is a communiy-based member organization for theUS State Departments International Vistor Leadership Program and other federally-funded exchangeprograms. WAC develops professional and cultural programs for 200-300 official visitors each yearthat visit Kentucky/So. Indiana as guests of the US government. Citizen Diplomacy programs suchas these serve a vital role not only in improving understanding of America abroad, but also inassisting leaders from around the world in developing the capacity of their nations to help theircitizens improve their lives. It also provides Americans an opportunity to broaden theirunderstanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and beliefs. These programs support globalpeace and collaboration.

Speaker Series - Regular speakers series directly engage the community with experts and diplomatson a variety of international issues. WAC has exclusive access to some of the most influentialand experienced diplomats, policy makers and thought leaders in the U.S. and abroad. Through oursignature Speaker Series and Pop-up talks, we connect the community on timely global issues thatelevates their work, life and learning.

SISTER CITIES: Louisvilles Sister Cities program connects the city with nine international partners, fostering global relationships through cultural, educational, and leadership exchanges. These partnerships aim to promote mutual understanding, economic development, and community growth, offering opportunities for residents to engage in meaningful cross-cultural experiences. Through collaboration with cities like Montpellier, France, and Quito, Ecuador, the program enhances Louisvilles global presence and creates long-lasting international friendships and networks.

Learning Programs - Education is at the heart of WACs Mission. We help students to expand theirworld through the state-wide academic worldquest competition, opportunity to study/researchabroad through the Hershberg Scholarship, and prepare to be Global-ready with the globalcitizenship program. In doing so, we provide educators and schools with the resources to preparestudents to meet their cultural competency goals and to be global citizens for the internationalchallenges of tomorrow