Over 90% of the Department of State’s Exchange and Cultural Affairs budget is invested directly in the United States—and in American citizens. While we at Global Ties KC often highlight the impact of exchange programs on our international visitors, hundreds of thousands of Americans benefit from these programs as well, often in uniquely local and personal ways. Global Ties KC recently had the honor of hosting a Career Connections event, bringing together local exchange alumni in the Heartland. Through programs like these, we ensure that U.S. ExchangeAlumni engage with valuable cross-cultural experiences that in turn strengthen the American workforce, spark innovation, and prepare leaders to succeed in a globalized economy.
What is Career Connections Kansas City?
The Career Connections Kansas City – Skills for Success in the Heartland conference took place from March 27–28. This two-day seminar, hosted in partnership with the Office of Alumni Affairs in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, brought together U.S. ExchangeAlumni for a transformative career-building experience. The conference events offered a platform for networking, skill-building, and inspiration, equipping attendees with the tools they need to advance their careers and achieve their professional goals.
An Evening of Networking and Engagement
Career Connections Kansas City began on Thursday evening with a welcome reception at the Kansas City Art Institute, where U.S. ExchangeAlumni, Department of State Staff, the Global Ties U.S. team, and local community members gathered for an night of connection, inspiration, and looking back on years of international exchange. Attendees participated in a networking bingo, forming new connections in an interactive, engaging, and fun format. Courtney Brooks, President & CEO of Global Ties KC, and Nolen Johnson, U.S. State Department Global Alumni Coordinator, delivered impactful remarks, emphasizing the power of exchange programs in professional development and community engagement, right here in the Heartland. The evening brought the group closer together and set an inspiring tone for the day ahead.
A Day of Insightful Discussions and Professional Growth
Friday featured an eight-hour professional seminar designed to help participants leverage their international experiences and networks for career advancement. The event placed a particular focus on opportunities in politics, local government, and the private sector.
The seminar began with an inspiring keynote address by Richard Kim, Senior Director of Entrepreneurship at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Richard shared valuable insights on social entrepreneurship and his professional journey, emphasizing the significance of international experiences in career growth.
Throughout the day, attendees engaged in three inspirational panel discussions covering a range of topics. These included “KC Industries on the Rise,” “Insights from Heartland Citizen Diplomats,” and “Making an Impact in Your Local Community.” Each panel provided unique perspectives and practical advice from industry experts showcasing our local community.
In addition to these discussions, the seminar offered several career development opportunities. Attendees had the chance to receive personalized feedback on their resumes from experienced advisors. Professional headshot services were also available, allowing participants to update their professional images.
One of the major highlights of the event was the career roundtables. These sessions allowed attendees to engage directly with eight local community leaders and changemakers. Through these conversations, participants gained invaluable career insights and mentorship, helping them navigate their professional paths with greater confidence.
A Special Thank You to Our ExchangeAlumni and Partners
We are grateful to all ExchangeAlumni, panelists, resume reviewers, community members, and attendees who made this event a success. The Career Connections Kansas City Conference reaffirmed the power of international exchange in shaping career trajectories and fostering a network of professionals dedicated to making a difference in their communities.
Global Ties KC also extends our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible partners and hosts, the Kauffman Conference Center and the Kansas City Art Institute, for providing the perfect venues for this impactful event. We especially thank the Office of Alumni Affairs in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, and Global Ties U.S. for trusting us to carry out this special event in our community!
Global Ties KC looks forward to future opportunities to continue supporting and empowering ExchangeAlumni in their professional journeys! If you or someone you know is an alumni of a U.S. Department of State sponsored exchange program, please encourage them to join the Heartland Alumni Network LinkedIn Page and follow the Global Ties KC newsletter to learn more about future opportunities!
