Ambassador Johnson Hosts Reception for Exchange Program Graduates

U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson hosted a reception on May 23 to celebrate the strong relationships between the U.S. Embassy and hundreds of Lebanese individuals who participated in international exchange programs sponsored by the U.S. government. Ambassador Johnson expressed her admiration for the remarkable achievements of the graduates of the U.S. exchange programs, emphasizing the importance the United States places on the "bridges of friendship and understanding" that alumni continue to build between the U.S. and Lebanon. The celebration featured a musical performance by Nareg Vasilian, a graduate of the American Music Abroad (AMA) program. Graduates of the U.S. exchange programs come from various fields and areas of expertise, including academia, politics, business, media, community leadership, and social and environmental activism. The network of U.S. exchange program alumni in Lebanon includes 16,000 members who have participated in exchange, education, and cultural programs funded by the U.S. government. The Public Diplomacy section of the U.S. Embassy actively engages with this dynamic community through discussions on specific topics, roundtables, and celebratory events.