Here’s a radical notion: An interdependent world is ill-served when leadership develops independently. If the first time a leader encounters another culture or perspective is during a conversation on the Red Phone, we’re all in trouble!
You have made it your business to ensure that future leaders benefit from early, immersive intercultural exposure. Not only government officials, but also people working in education, the arts, business, health and many other fields.
As co-founder and executive director of the Davis United World College Scholars Program, you’ve supported more than 13,000 students from 165 countries who’ve attended scores of U.S. universities and colleges, including Williams. It’s the world’s largest international scholarship program for undergraduates.
Your work is transformative for these international scholars, to be sure. The chance for American students to meet their best and brightest international peers is every bit as impactful.
You were also co-founder and longtime director of Projects for Peace, which funds peace-promoting summer initiatives around the world, conceived of and executed by college students. One of those summer projects has evolved into a respected international NGO, Reclaim Childhood, whose founders we honored at this same ceremony just last year.
You are a two-time Fulbright scholar and have served in numerous leadership roles in international education and philanthropy. Without you, the world would no doubt be less integrated, the United States more isolated and American higher education significantly less diverse.
In recognition of your distinguished achievement in education and in advancing international understanding, Williams College is proud to honor you with its Bicentennial Medal.