John Bader’s Impact on the Fulbright Association (2017–2025)

As the Fulbright Association transitions from the leadership of Executive Director John B. Bader, we reflect on his notable contributions and the transformative impact he has had on the organization and the global Fulbright community during his tenure from 2017 to 2025. John’s time at the helm has been a period of innovation, resilience, and steadfast commitment to the Fulbright mission of promoting peace through international education and understanding.

A Legacy of Growth and Vision

John Bader assumed leadership during a pivotal moment for the Fulbright Association. Beginning in 2017, he brought energy, vision, and a deep personal connection to the Fulbright mission. Under his guidance, the Association expanded its outreach, modernized operations, and strengthened its advocacy efforts. Highlights of his leadership include:

Advocacy and Funding Successes

Facing significant threats to Fulbright Program funding, John led strategic advocacy campaigns that mobilized the Fulbright community and engaged Congress. Notable achievements included defeating a proposed 47% budget cut in 2017 and securing the first funding increase in over a decade in 2022. The “Advocacy Days” he championed, both in person and virtually, connected Fulbrighters with policymakers, ensuring that the program’s value was communicated effectively on Capitol Hill.

Adapting to Challenges

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges, halting in-person events and exchanges. John and his team pivoted quickly, introducing virtual conferences, webinars, and digital advocacy efforts, which kept the Fulbright community engaged and active despite global disruptions.

“John Bader made a lasting and profound impact on the Fulbright Association. History will tell the story of his unwavering commitment to the vision, his accomplishments in advocacy, his respect for his team, and his remarkable success in sustaining the organization through the global pandemic and turbulent social change. John served the association faithfully and will be missed.” DeDe Long – Former National Board Chair

Modernizing Operations

John oversaw the Fulbright Association’s transition to Salesforce, a powerful customer relationship management (CRM) platform. This move streamlined membership management, improved communication, and enhanced data-driven decision-making, ensuring the Association remained effective and forward-thinking.

Strengthening Community

Alumni engagement grew significantly, with innovative programs such as the Fulbright Census identifying over 140,000 American Fulbright alumni. John’s efforts ensured that more alumni felt connected and supported, fostering a stronger sense of belonging within the Fulbright network.

With the addition of Interest Groups and chartering new Chapters, alumni were able to connect on a local level and make connections on their common grant country. Chapters saw new support from grant funding and improved processes to aid their tremendous volunteer work.

“John was basically born into the world of Fulbright. His father worked for the Senator and his mother created the sculpture of Sen. J. William Fulbright at the University of Arkansas. John’s dedication to the Fulbright Program has and always will be steadfast. His passion for mutual understanding across cultures is contagious and inspiring. It was a pleasure to work together on projects like the Fulbright Census and Fulbright Stories campaign.” Munir Sayegh – Director for Communications and Data

Elevating Global Recognition

During his tenure, the Fulbright Prize for International Understanding was awarded to iconic global figures, including:

• Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, honored in Berlin for her commitment to mutual understanding and cooperation in 2018.
• Bono, U2 lead singer and co-founder of ONE and (RED), for his commitment to justice, poverty reduction, and global health advocacy in 2021.
• Anthony Fauci and Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, for their work on the COVID-19 vaccine and their contributions to global health in 2020.
• Gary White and Matt Damon jointly received the J. William Fulbright Prize in 2024 for their extraordinary work to bring safe water and improved sanitation to millions on three continents.

Fulbright in the Classroom: Bridging Cultures Through Education

One of the most impactful programs under John’s leadership was the creation of Fulbright in the Classroom (FIC). This initiative connects Fulbright alumni with students across the United States to share their global experiences and foster cross-cultural understanding. Highlights include:

Reaching Rural Communities: Alumni traveled to underserved areas, bringing stories and cultural artifacts from their Fulbright experiences to students who might not otherwise encounter international perspectives.

Broadening Horizons: In 2021 alone, Fulbright alumni delivered over 110 presentations to more than 2,000 students. These sessions inspired students to think globally and consider opportunities such as study abroad and international careers.

Promoting Diversity: FIC sessions often focus on encouraging students from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue global education, emphasizing that international exchange is accessible to all.

College-Level Engagement: The program expanded to include college audiences, featuring virtual and in-person presentations that explored themes like cultural diplomacy, food as a medium for connection, and the role of art in fostering understanding.

The Fulbright in the Classroom program stands as a testament to the Association’s mission to promote international understanding and to John’s commitment to empowering future generations of global citizens.

“Working closely with John has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey with the Fulbright Association. His passion and dedication to the Association and the Fulbright mission have been inspiring. John has always fostered creativity and innovation, encouraging new ideas and approaches with an open mind and constant support. I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with someone who exemplifies such passion and commitment. While it’s difficult to see him go, his legacy will continue to shape the future of the Association.” Alicia Montague – Director for National Programs

Key Milestones

2017: Celebrating 40 Years
John’s first full year saw the Fulbright Association’s 40th anniversary. He spearheaded a revitalization of chapter activities and the “Stand for Fulbright” advocacy campaign, culminating in an Advocacy Day that drew a record number of participants.

2018: Fulbright Prize in Berlin
Angela Merkel’s receipt of the Fulbright Prize in Berlin marked the first time the event was held outside the U.S., showcasing the FA’s ability to think globally and engage international audiences. The event highlighted Fulbright’s enduring legacy and global impact.

2020: Resilience Amid a Pandemic
When the world came to a standstill, John’s leadership ensured continuity. The first virtual annual conference and digital Fulbright in the Classroom programs exemplified his adaptability, creating new ways for alumni to connect and share experiences.

2023: Youth Summit Launch
The inaugural Pathways to Global Leadership Youth Summit in Denver symbolized the FA’s commitment to empowering the next generation of global citizens. This groundbreaking event brought together students from diverse backgrounds to discuss pressing global issues and inspire leadership.

A Heartfelt Thank You

John’s own Fulbright journey—a grant to India in 1985–86—deeply influenced his leadership. His personal experiences fueled his passion for fostering cross-cultural understanding and his determination to expand opportunities for future Fulbrighters. His dedication has left an indelible mark, inspiring countless alumni and setting a high standard for leadership.

As we honor John’s incredible contributions, we also look forward to building on the foundation he has laid. The Fulbright Association remains committed to its mission, strengthened by the vision and achievements of John Bader. His legacy will guide us as we continue to advocate for a more interconnected and peaceful world.

We extend our gratitude to John for his years of dedication and leadership. His efforts have left the Fulbright Association well-prepared for the future, and his contributions will remain a cornerstone of its ongoing mission. We wish you all the best in your next chapter and know that your impact will continue to inspire us all.

“John exemplified compassionate leadership during his tenure as Executive Director of the Fulbright Association. He led not only with passion and dedication but also with a genuine care for his colleagues and their families, creating an environment of mutual respect and support that strengthened the organization’s mission and its community.” Claire Jagla – Associate Director for Philanthropy