The Distinguished Alumni Leadership Award is the highest honor bestowed upon Cultural Vistas alumni. The award recognizes former participants of Cultural Vistas exchange programs who have attained distinction in their chosen field while fostering international understanding and collaboration in their communities and organizations.
Nominations must be submitted by June 21, 2018.
The inaugural Distinguished Alumni Leadership Award winner will be announced later this summer.
Award Criteria
The Cultural Vistas Alumni Council will evaluate nominations based on the following criteria:
- Demonstrates outstanding leadership and contributions within their field
- Exemplifies commitment to the mission of Cultural Vistas and its alumni communities
- Has successfully integrated their exchange experience into their professional pursuits; particularly utilizing competencies that Cultural Vistas programs uniquely cultivate, among them:
- Adaptability and resilience
- Empathy
- Entrepreneurial ability
- Proficiency in a foreign language
- Tolerance for diverse approaches to life and work
- Has shared the story of their abroad experience with a larger audience to demonstrate the value of exchange programs
- Has made meaningful contributions to foster and advance international understanding and collaboration.
Eligibility
- Must have participated in a professional exchange program administered by Cultural Vistas, including its predecessor organizations (AIPT and CDS International)
- Cannot currently be employees of Cultural Vistas or on its Board of Directors
- Must be able to attend the inaugural Cultural Vistas Awards Gala in New York City on September 27, 2018
Commitment
Nominees seeking recognition will be expected to perform the following if awarded:
- Coordinate or attend an alumni meeting or event in their home region
- Provide a video testimonial
- Serve as a member of the Cultural Vistas Alumni Council per special appointment: a one-year commitment of two to three virtual or in-person meetings