U.S. Representatives Steve Pearce (R-NM) and Jim Himes (D-CT) today announced the creation of the Congressional International Exchange and Study Caucus, to raise awareness of the importance of international exchange and study programs in the United States and around the world.
Pearce and Himes will serve as co-chairs of the Caucus, which will promote international exchange and study programs that enable high school and college students, among others, to study all over the world. There is growing interest among U.S. secondary and higher education students for study abroad programs. U.S. schools, colleges and universities also benefit economically from having international students visit their campuses.
“These exchanges play increasingly important diplomatic and economic roles, while simultaneously encouraging goodwill towards the U.S. globally,” said Rep. Pearce. “They are a singularly effective way for our citizens to develop foreign language skills and cultural awareness – abilities that U.S. employers look for to remain globally competitive.”
“The Caucus will be a vital source of information for our colleagues who wish to notify constituents of exchange opportunities, and can inform members and staff about the purpose and value of various exchange programs,” said Himes. “As someone who was born overseas because of my father’s line of work, and who studied abroad in Jordan through AFS-USA, I can attest to the tremendous value of experiencing other cultures.
“International exchange and study programs are of particular importance in today’s global economy,” Rep. Himes continued. “These programs provide an unequaled understanding of world cultures – one that can translate into the success of American businesses, growth of the U.S. economy, and increased global and national security.”
“There is a lengthy list of notable alumni of exchange programs, including a former President, Members of Congress, cabinet secretaries, governors, and business executives; all of whom have benefited from exposure to new people, languages, and cultures by living aboard,” Rep. Pearce explained.
Reps. Pearce and Himes also noted that they, as co-chairs, and the members of the Caucus would be a voice for the citizen diplomacy created by sharing American values and culture with the students and families participating in these valuable programs.