By Alexandra Potter, Citizen Diplomacy Program Manager, International House
In early November, International House, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Alumni Affairs and Global Ties U.S., successfully hosted in Charlotte, NC, Career Connections: Young Professionals Meeting Global Goals, which brought together more than 40 alumni of U.S. Government-funded exchange programs (ExchangeAlumni) from across the United States, to foster dialogue and collaboration towards achieving global goals.
Group photo on the event rooftop featuring U.S. Department of State, Global Ties U.S., and International House implementer with the Career Connections Charlotte attendees.
The two-day event kicked off with a welcome reception overlooking the Queen City and featured a diverse agenda covering a range of topics including international policies, professional development, and networking opportunities. This was an opportunity for attendees to share their experiences of living, studying, and serving abroad, and bringing their wealth of experiences and perspectives to Charlotte.
The initial welcome reception was sponsored by a partner and dear friend of International House which was held on the rooftop of the seminar venue. With several community partners in attendance and the sunset over the city skyline, the atmosphere of the reception warmly welcomed participants on a very brisk evening and helped set the tone for an engaging event.
Moderator Byron McCrae and Panelists Angie Edwards (Queens University) and Lauren Stikeleather (Davidson College) share insights during the “Life After College” panel.
Over the course of the event, distinguished keynote speakers delivered thought-provoking presentations, sharing valuable insight on global opportunities and the role of young professionals in driving positive change.
Attendees were offered an array of sessions and workshops opened by remarks from the Office of Alumni Affairs’ Director, Madelina Young-Smith. This included a panel discussion with local university representatives from Davidson College, UNC Charlotte, Wake Forest University, Queens University, and Furman University to discuss avenues for internationally-minded professionals entering the workforce.
Other programming highlights included a professional development workshop by Tori Stevens, Founder of evolYOUtion, on how to tap into existing potential, and a presentation from immigrant business owner Aleksandra Degernes on how to cultivate your personal brand in professional settings.
The first day also included interactive sessions providing professional headshots, resume reviews, pitch guidance, and grant writing tips. Further networking opportunities were encouraged in an evening of exploring South End Charlotte, known for its vibrant traffic of young professionals.
Alexis Gordon (City of Charlotte) speaking to attendees about local government in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center.
The second day of the seminar began with career roundtables over breakfast followed by a guided tour of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center led by the City of Charlotte’s International Business Manager and Chief of Protocol, Alexis Gordon.
While there, participants learned about diplomacy in and through Charlotte, NC. The ExchangeAlumni also enjoyed a private cultural performance by one of Charlotte’s unicorn entrepreneurs, Chris Elmore of AvidXchange, with his ukulele and words of wisdom through storytelling of his successes and failures as an up-and-coming businessperson.
The final breakout sessions worked with attendees to determine ways to continue their engagement by leveraging the connections that were created by the seminar.
Career Connections Charlotte was a resounding success that brought together a dynamic group of young professionals committed to global prosperity.
The seminar promoted insightful discussions, personal growth, and new interpersonal and global connections for these ExchangeAlumni.
We are eager to see the benefits of this seminar to the future of everyone who attended.
With Gratitude
A special thanks to the U.S. Department of State, Office of Alumni Affairs, Global Ties U.S., the City of Charlotte, the Double Tree by Hilton staff, and all seminar participants for their commitment to making Career Connections a milestone event. Additionally, we express appreciation to our exhibitors, sponsors, and International House team who played a vital role in enhancing the attendee experience.