Fulbright Association – 2025 Year in Review
Highlights from a year of advocacy, community, and global engagement.
Thank you to our donors, members, partners, and supporters who make all of this possible.
48th Annual Conference – “United We Stand” in Miami
In October, hundreds of Fulbrighters gathered at Florida International University for the 48th Annual Fulbright Association Conference under the theme United We Stand. The event featured dynamic discussions on advocacy, the future of work, global leadership, and inclusive exchange, and honored outstanding alumni with the Lifetime Achievement Award and other recognitions that celebrated decades of service to international understanding. Read more.
Celebrating Chapter and Interest Group Excellence
At this year’s conference, the Fulbright Association spotlighted the creativity and impact of its chapters and interest groups, recognizing groups such as the Community Colleges Chapter for virtual engagement, the North Dakota Chapter for K–12 outreach, and the Colorado Chapter for advocacy excellence. These awards highlighted the local power of Fulbrighters to connect, build community, and advance the mission of mutual understanding. Read more.
Youth Summit Inspires Future Global Citizens
The 2025 Pathways to Global Citizenship Youth Summit brought together high school students to learn about study abroad opportunities, intercultural leadership, and global careers. Supported by alumni and partners, the Summit continues to expand pathways for young people—especially those from underrepresented communities—to explore international exchange and envision their role in global cooperation. Read more.
#StandForFulbright: Defending the Future of Exchange
In response to potential funding challenges facing the Fulbright Program, the Fulbright Association mobilized alumni voices and submitted formal testimony to Congress in support of restored and sustained funding for FY26. This advocacy effort underscored the Association’s role in defending the future of international exchange and elevating Fulbright’s impact to policymakers. Read more.
Honoring Fulbright Lifetime Achievement and Service
In 2025, the Fulbright Association honored remarkable leaders such as Dr. Mary Ellen Heian Schmider with its Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing decades of advancing education, mentorship, and cross-cultural collaboration. These distinguished recognitions celebrated the enduring contributions of alumni who embody Fulbright’s values of peace, understanding, and global citizenship. Read more.
2025 Chapter Events Highlights
Highlights from our incredible Chapters across the county.
Annual Global Gathering
Dallas Chapter
A North Texas convening bringing together alumni and scholars for introductions, discussion, and mentorship-building.
Fulbright Fall Social
Houston / Southeast Texas Chapter
A mentorship-focused gathering connecting current grantees with alumni for guidance, support, and new connections.
Welcome Central Virginia Chapter Members
Central Virginia Chapter
A welcoming event featuring scholar stories and introductions—building local community and strengthening Fulbright ties.
Capitol Reef National Park Networking Trip
Utah Chapter
Fulbright students, scholars, and alumni connected during a two-day networking trip exploring Utah’s red rock landscapes, historic sites, and cultural history.
Earth Day Film Screening & Expert Panel
Fulbrighters with Disabilities & Mid-Florida Chapters
An Earth Day screening at Tampa Theatre featured a Fulbrighter-produced documentary on disability and disaster impacts, followed by a Q&A and expert panel discussion.
Fall Welcome and Networking Reception
National Capital Area Chapter
Hosted with the Fulbright Association at DACOR Bacon House, this reception welcomed 100 alumni and visiting Fulbrighters to Washington, DC for an evening of connection, conversation, and community.
Fall Meet & Greet
Kentucky Chapter
A casual gathering where alumni and new members exchanged travel stories, welcomed newcomers, and shared Fulbright application tips.
Boston Athenaeum Tour & Social
Massachusetts Chapter
A guided cultural visit through one of the nation’s oldest independent libraries, followed by informal conversation and networking.
Jersey City Cultural Walk
New Jersey Chapter
A walking tour highlighting local history and culture—designed to spark dialogue and strengthen alumni connections.
Enfield Gorge Hike
Central New York Chapter
An outdoor “power of place” gathering connecting regional landscapes to global Fulbright experiences and community.
Walking Through the Harlem Renaissance
Greater New York Chapter
A guided tour exploring Harlem’s artistic legacy while building connections across alumni, scholars, and friends of Fulbright.
Opening Dinner Meeting & Members’ Social
Northeast Ohio Chapter
Hosted at The Hotel at Oberlin, this opening dinner brought together alumni and Fulbright-affiliated faculty for informal networking and chapter discussion. The evening focused on strengthening ties with Oberlin College, recruiting new members, and building momentum for future chapter initiatives.