Author: Fort Worth Sister Cities

Sister Cities Accepting Applications for Jr. Leadership Academy

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX: Building a Culture of Health, Theme of Academy

IMG_9537This year marks the 12th year of the International Leadership Academy’s middle school program, Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA) held July 11—15 for middle school students .  This one week Academy will be held at South Hi Mount Elementary School in partnership with the Fort Worth ISD.

faciltator kingCollege students from Toluca, Mexico and Mbabane, Swaziland will serve as facilitators for the students who will experience cultural presentations and interaction with the university students gaining an international perspective.

As participants, students will be able to:
  • Enhance global leadership, communications, teamwork, and problem solving skills
  • Learn about cultures, traditions, and citizen diplomacy of eight countries
  • Strengthen global perspectives and appreciation for other cultures
  • Enhance college and career opportunities
  • Develop lifelong friendships with students from eight countries without leaving Fort Worth

students making funny faces“The students will be challenged to improve and refine their leadership skills and learn how diverse cultures can support common goals. It’s a tremendous opportunity for personal growth and prepares these students for a global society,” said Nancy Marchant, JILA Coordinator.

The closing ceremonies for JILA will take place July 15, 5:00 p.m. at South Hi Mount Elementary School and is open to the public.

Applications are due April 22 and can be downloaded here: https://www.fwsistercities.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2016-JILA-Registration-fillable.pdf?e7c817

2016-04-18 12:49

Sister Cities Accepting Applications for Jr. Leadership Academy

Fort Worth, TX: Building a Culture of Health, Theme of Academy

IMG_9537This year marks the 12th year of the International Leadership Academy’s middle school program, Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA) held July 11—15 for middle school students .  This one week Academy will be held at South Hi Mount Elementary School in partnership with the Fort Worth ISD.

faciltator kingCollege students from Toluca, Mexico and Mbabane, Swaziland will serve as facilitators for the students who will experience cultural presentations and interaction with the university students gaining an international perspective.

As participants, students will be able to:
  • Enhance global leadership, communications, teamwork, and problem solving skills
  • Learn about cultures, traditions, and citizen diplomacy of eight countries
  • Strengthen global perspectives and appreciation for other cultures
  • Enhance college and career opportunities
  • Develop lifelong friendships with students from eight countries without leaving Fort Worth

students making funny faces“The students will be challenged to improve and refine their leadership skills and learn how diverse cultures can support common goals. It’s a tremendous opportunity for personal growth and prepares these students for a global society,” said Nancy Marchant, JILA Coordinator.

The closing ceremonies for JILA will take place July 15, 5:00 p.m. at South Hi Mount Elementary School and is open to the public.

Applications are due April 22 and can be downloaded here: https://www.fwsistercities.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2016-JILA-Registration-fillable.pdf?e7c817

Sister Cities to Hold Conversation on Refugee Crisis

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, Texas – Refugee resettlement in Fort Worth to be discussed 

The Fort Worth community is invited to participate in a conversation on the current world refugee crisis on April 28 from at 5:30 to 7:00 pm at the Tarrant County College Trinity River Campus, Room Action A 4202.  The event is free and open to the public but reservations are required at beth@fwsistercities.org.

Manochehr Dorraj
Dr. Monochehr Dorraj

The event will include an analysis of the refugee crisis by Dr. Monochehr Dorraj, Professor of Political Science at TCU.  A panel discussion will follow on how refugees are affecting our sister cities of Budapest, Hungary; Reggio Emilia, Italy; and Trier, Germany.

The evening will also include an overview of the current situation in Fort Worth.  This information will be presented by the directors from Refugee Services of Texas speaking about how refugees are being resettled in Fort Worth.

Our keynote speaker, Manochehr Dorraj, received his Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin.  Dr. Dorraj is a frequent commentator on global affairs in general and Middle East politics in particular. He has granted numerous interviews to international, national, and local media.

For more information and to make your reservation, please contact Beth Weibel at beth@fwsistercities.org.

2016-04-07 08:57

Sister Cities to Hold Conversation on Refugee Crisis

Fort Worth, Texas – Refugee resettlement in Fort Worth to be discussed 

The Fort Worth community is invited to participate in a conversation on the current world refugee crisis on April 28 from at 5:30 to 7:00 pm at the Tarrant County College Trinity River Campus, Room Action A 4202.  The event is free and open to the public but reservations are required at beth@fwsistercities.org.

Manochehr Dorraj
Dr. Monochehr Dorraj

The event will include an analysis of the refugee crisis by Dr. Monochehr Dorraj, Professor of Political Science at TCU.  A panel discussion will follow on how refugees are affecting our sister cities of Budapest, Hungary; Reggio Emilia, Italy; and Trier, Germany.

The evening will also include an overview of the current situation in Fort Worth.  This information will be presented by the directors from Refugee Services of Texas speaking about how refugees are being resettled in Fort Worth.

Our keynote speaker, Manochehr Dorraj, received his Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin.  Dr. Dorraj is a frequent commentator on global affairs in general and Middle East politics in particular. He has granted numerous interviews to international, national, and local media.

For more information and to make your reservation, please contact Beth Weibel at beth@fwsistercities.org.

Youth Ambassadors Travel to Germany, Hungary, Italy & Mexico

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, Texas – Goodwill Ambassadors travel to four Sister Cities 

YA in FlorenceLater this month, thirty-two students and ten leaders are visiting four of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities including Trier, Germany; Budapest, Hungary; Reggio Emilia, Italy; and Toluca, Mexico.

This will be the first youth exchange to Toluca, Mexico since 2008.  Educators from the FWISD, private schools and local universities will lead the delegations including:

Trier, Germany: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest High School and Travis Waggoner, recent University of North Texas graduate.

Reggio Emilia, Italy: Vicki Delgado, Leonard Middle School and Rachel Jenkins, University of Texas at Arlington, as well as Associate Delegation Leader Kiana Cunningham, University of Arkansas.

Budapest, Hungary: Jay Kurima, FWISD TABS and Michelle Chuah, University of Texas at Arlington.

teotihuacanToluca, Mexico: Nathan Henderson, Stripling Middle School and Stephanie Atkinson, University of Texas at Arlington.

 “In today’s ever-expanding global marketplace, cultural enlightenment and exposure is crucial for students and adults alike. We believe in a student-centered program that encourages the development of leadership skills and motivates students to pursue their own goals,” said Michael Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

The youth of Fort Worth benefit from a global education.  They learn leadership, communications, teamwork, and problem solving skills, as well as an understanding of other cultures. They also receive training to become citizen diplomats representing the U.S., Texas and Fort Worth which enhances their college and career opportunities.

2016-02-25 11:39

Youth Ambassadors Travel to Germany, Hungary, Italy & Mexico

Fort Worth, Texas – Goodwill Ambassadors travel to four Sister Cities 

YA in FlorenceLater this month, thirty-two students and ten leaders are visiting four of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities including Trier, Germany; Budapest, Hungary; Reggio Emilia, Italy; and Toluca, Mexico.

This will be the first youth exchange to Toluca, Mexico since 2008.  Educators from the FWISD, private schools and local universities will lead the delegations including:

Trier, Germany: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest High School and Travis Waggoner, recent University of North Texas graduate.

Reggio Emilia, Italy: Vicki Delgado, Leonard Middle School and Rachel Jenkins, University of Texas at Arlington, as well as Associate Delegation Leader Kiana Cunningham, University of Arkansas.

Budapest, Hungary: Jay Kurima, FWISD TABS and Michelle Chuah, University of Texas at Arlington.

teotihuacanToluca, Mexico: Nathan Henderson, Stripling Middle School and Stephanie Atkinson, University of Texas at Arlington.

 “In today’s ever-expanding global marketplace, cultural enlightenment and exposure is crucial for students and adults alike. We believe in a student-centered program that encourages the development of leadership skills and motivates students to pursue their own goals,” said Michael Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

The youth of Fort Worth benefit from a global education.  They learn leadership, communications, teamwork, and problem solving skills, as well as an understanding of other cultures. They also receive training to become citizen diplomats representing the U.S., Texas and Fort Worth which enhances their college and career opportunities.

Sister Cities Leads Group to Cuba

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, Texas – Delegation visits Cuba on educational mission

cuba photoTwenty-six Fort Worth Sister Cities International delegates will depart Friday on an eight day educational mission to Cuba to learn more about the country and to promote Fort Worth. The delegation will consist of representatives from the business, education, arts and tourism sectors.

While there the delegation will visit Santa Clara, Trinidad, Cienfuegos, the Viñales Valley and Havana.

unesco-world-heritage-cuba-trinidad-valle-lose-ingenios-002.jpg.rend.tccom.1280.960Special meetings are set with the U.S. Embassy staff in Havana to discuss the current political climate of the country. While in Havana the delegation will also meet with Professor Carlos Alzugaray Treto on U.S./Cuba Relations. Professor Alzugaray is the Former Cuban Ambassador to the European Union and former Director of the Institute of Foreign Relations in Havana.

“Fort Worth is looking for new opportunities to connect with the world. We are not actively seeking a new sister city at this time but a city in Cuba could be a possibility in the future,” said Michael Bennett, Board Chair. “With diplomatic relations now established between the U.S. and Cuba and travel restrictions being lifted soon, a relationship with Cuba could be of benefit to Fort Worth residents.”

unesco-world-heritage-cuba-valle-de-vinales-pinar-rio-province-005.jpg.rend.tccom.1280.960Sister Cities is working with Cuba Cultural Travel, an operator under a “People to People” license required by the U.S. Dept. of Treasury who sets regulations for any American citizen wishing to travel to Cuba.

The delegation will be led by Fort Worth Sister Cities board members Mike and Rae Hyatt, Ann Rice, and President/CEO Mae Ferguson.

2016-01-28 09:38

Sister Cities Leads Group to Cuba

Fort Worth, Texas – Delegation visits Cuba on educational mission

cuba photoTwenty-six Fort Worth Sister Cities International delegates will depart Friday on an eight day educational mission to Cuba to learn more about the country and to promote Fort Worth. The delegation will consist of representatives from the business, education, arts and tourism sectors.

While there the delegation will visit Santa Clara, Trinidad, Cienfuegos, the Viñales Valley and Havana.

unesco-world-heritage-cuba-trinidad-valle-lose-ingenios-002.jpg.rend.tccom.1280.960Special meetings are set with the U.S. Embassy staff in Havana to discuss the current political climate of the country. While in Havana the delegation will also meet with Professor Carlos Alzugaray Treto on U.S./Cuba Relations. Professor Alzugaray is the Former Cuban Ambassador to the European Union and former Director of the Institute of Foreign Relations in Havana.

“Fort Worth is looking for new opportunities to connect with the world. We are not actively seeking a new sister city at this time but a city in Cuba could be a possibility in the future,” said Michael Bennett, Board Chair. “With diplomatic relations now established between the U.S. and Cuba and travel restrictions being lifted soon, a relationship with Cuba could be of benefit to Fort Worth residents.”

unesco-world-heritage-cuba-valle-de-vinales-pinar-rio-province-005.jpg.rend.tccom.1280.960Sister Cities is working with Cuba Cultural Travel, an operator under a “People to People” license required by the U.S. Dept. of Treasury who sets regulations for any American citizen wishing to travel to Cuba.

The delegation will be led by Fort Worth Sister Cities board members Mike and Rae Hyatt, Ann Rice, and President/CEO Mae Ferguson.

International Youth Ambassadors Selected 2016

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
FORT WORTH, TX – Students selected to visit Fort Worth’s Sister Cities

grp photo_nice scenaryNearly 100 Fort Worth students recently completed a vigorous selection process and have been selected to represent the City of Fort Worth as Ambassadors to Fort Worth’s international partners.

Youth Ambassador exchanges provide a global education for students giving them the opportunity to explore history and experience languages, culture and arts of the country they visit. Students live with host families to develop an understanding of the culture and its traditions during exchanges that range from 9 to 14 days.

YA in FlorenceThe selection process includes written essays, teacher recommendations, report cards and in-person interviews conducted by the teachers who lead the delegations abroad. This year’s Ambassadors represent students from FWISD, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, and several private schools. Scholarship assistance of over $100,000 are awarded annually ensuring a diverse group of students and teachers who will represent Fort Worth.

On exchanges students develop relationships with students from other countries and gain essential skills to be successful in a global society. “Selection of Youth Ambassadors is a very competitive process and we feel we have an outstanding class to represent Fort Worth and the U.S. A. this year,” said Dr. Staussa Ervin, Chair of the Exchanges and Outreach committee of Fort Worth Sister Cities International.

The exchanges are scheduled for March, June and July to China, Italy, Hungary, Germany, Japan, and Mexico.  A complete list of Youth Ambassadors can be found at https://www.fwsistercities.org/fort-worth-youth-ambassadors-2016/

2016-01-07 08:55

International Youth Ambassadors Selected 2016

FORT WORTH, TX – Students selected to visit Fort Worth’s Sister Cities

grp photo_nice scenaryNearly 100 Fort Worth students recently completed a vigorous selection process and have been selected to represent the City of Fort Worth as Ambassadors to Fort Worth’s international partners.

Youth Ambassador exchanges provide a global education for students giving them the opportunity to explore history and experience languages, culture and arts of the country they visit. Students live with host families to develop an understanding of the culture and its traditions during exchanges that range from 9 to 14 days.

YA in FlorenceThe selection process includes written essays, teacher recommendations, report cards and in-person interviews conducted by the teachers who lead the delegations abroad. This year’s Ambassadors represent students from FWISD, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, and several private schools. Scholarship assistance of over $100,000 are awarded annually ensuring a diverse group of students and teachers who will represent Fort Worth.

On exchanges students develop relationships with students from other countries and gain essential skills to be successful in a global society. “Selection of Youth Ambassadors is a very competitive process and we feel we have an outstanding class to represent Fort Worth and the U.S. A. this year,” said Dr. Staussa Ervin, Chair of the Exchanges and Outreach committee of Fort Worth Sister Cities International.

The exchanges are scheduled for March, June and July to China, Italy, Hungary, Germany, Japan, and Mexico.  A complete list of Youth Ambassadors can be found at https://www.fwsistercities.org/fort-worth-youth-ambassadors-2016/

Sister Cities Presents Annual Awards

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, Texas – Volunteer Awards and Youth Scholarships Announced 

Volunteer awards and youth scholarships were presented at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s annual holiday party recently.  Premier awards were presented to the Volunteer of the Year, Tara Forrest, and Youth Volunteer of the Year, Bogdana Oliynyk.

IMG_0184Ms. Forrest is a teacher at Fort Worth Country Day and has been involved with Sister Cities for many years.  She has led the Jr. International Leadership Academy for the past ten years and hosted students from Nagaoka, Japan.  She also served as the delegation leader to Japan for the prestigious Harashin scholars program in 2015.

IMG_0179Ms. Oliynyk has served in several leadership positions on the youth board and traveled to several sister cities including Guiyang, China and Bandung, Indonesia.  She was also chosen as the recipient of the Sister Cities International Youth Volunteer of the Year award which was presented in Minneapolis, MN at the national conference in July 2015.

“Led by a dedicated board of directors and with the help of more than 2,000 volunteers a year, we want to recognize these individuals for their commitment to our vibrant city, its people and its bright future on the global stage,” said Michael Bennett, Chair of the Board.

IMG_0166Three prestigious youth scholarships were also presented including:

The Yamagata Emerging Leaders Scholar, in honor of Elaine Yamagata and the late Tadashi Yamagata, was presented to Selin Karsi who will travel to Trier, Germany in 2016.

The Fort Worth Japanese Society scholarship was presented to Alisha Sharp who will travel to Nagaoka and Tokyo, Japan.

IMG_0175Henry Chao and Zoe Nichols-Payne were recognized as this year’s Rotary International Scholars.  These two ninth grade students will develop and organize a service project to be conducted at a school in Guiyang, China in June 2016.

2015-12-16 01:49

Sister Cities Presents Annual Awards

Fort Worth, Texas – Volunteer Awards and Youth Scholarships Announced 

Volunteer awards and youth scholarships were presented at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s annual holiday party recently.  Premier awards were presented to the Volunteer of the Year, Tara Forrest, and Youth Volunteer of the Year, Bogdana Oliynyk.

IMG_0184Ms. Forrest is a teacher at Fort Worth Country Day and has been involved with Sister Cities for many years.  She has led the Jr. International Leadership Academy for the past ten years and hosted students from Nagaoka, Japan.  She also served as the delegation leader to Japan for the prestigious Harashin scholars program in 2015.

IMG_0179Ms. Oliynyk has served in several leadership positions on the youth board and traveled to several sister cities including Guiyang, China and Bandung, Indonesia.  She was also chosen as the recipient of the Sister Cities International Youth Volunteer of the Year award which was presented in Minneapolis, MN at the national conference in July 2015.

“Led by a dedicated board of directors and with the help of more than 2,000 volunteers a year, we want to recognize these individuals for their commitment to our vibrant city, its people and its bright future on the global stage,” said Michael Bennett, Chair of the Board.

IMG_0166Three prestigious youth scholarships were also presented including:

The Yamagata Emerging Leaders Scholar, in honor of Elaine Yamagata and the late Tadashi Yamagata, was presented to Selin Karsi who will travel to Trier, Germany in 2016.

The Fort Worth Japanese Society scholarship was presented to Alisha Sharp who will travel to Nagaoka and Tokyo, Japan.

IMG_0175Henry Chao and Zoe Nichols-Payne were recognized as this year’s Rotary International Scholars.  These two ninth grade students will develop and organize a service project to be conducted at a school in Guiyang, China in June 2016.

Ambassador Educators to Represent Fort Worth

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities selects leaders for international youth exchangesDLs at crater

Twelve delegation leaders from area schools and organizations were recently selected to lead youth exchanges to five of Fort Worth’s sister cities next year.  Nearly 100 local students will be interviewed for approx. 80 slots on the exchanges starting Nov. 2, 2015.

Ambassador Educators selected to represent Fort Worth abroad are:

Spring exchanges March 12-20, 2016
  • Reggio Emilia, Italy: Sandy Yeandle, Daggett Montessori & Vicki Delgado, Leonard MS
  • Trier, Germany: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest HS & Beth Weibel, Sr. Program Manager, Fort Worth Sister Cities
  • Budapest, Hungary: Jay Kurima, FWISD TABS & Ana Castenada, South Hills High School
  • Toluca, Mexico: Nathan Henderson, Stripling Middle School & Rachel Jenkins, UTA
Summer exchanges June 10-August 4, 2016
  • Guiyang, China, June 10-19:  Tracey Cravens, Northside HS & Cindy Vasquez, City of FW
  • Nagaoka, Japan, June 22-July 1: Kathy Roemer, Fort Worth Country Day & Maria Saucedo, World Languages Institute
  • Nagaoka, Japan: July 27-August 4: Kimberly Tezak-Daus, Diamond Hill Jarvis High School & James Gleaton, Paschal High School

“International exchanges give students possibly their first opportunity to travel abroad, which is almost always described as a life-changing experience. Without these amazing teachers and professionals to lead the students through sometimes difficult and unfamiliar circumstances, this would not be possible,” said Michael Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

Local educators benefit greatly from travel abroad programs.  They have the opportunity to develop their craft by being exposed to different people and cultures, gain leadership skills by mentoring students outside the classroom, network with international educators, and travel to rich and interesting cultures.

2015-10-28 11:32

Ambassador Educators to Represent Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities selects leaders for international youth exchangesDLs at crater

Twelve delegation leaders from area schools and organizations were recently selected to lead youth exchanges to five of Fort Worth’s sister cities next year.  Nearly 100 local students will be interviewed for approx. 80 slots on the exchanges starting Nov. 2, 2015.

Ambassador Educators selected to represent Fort Worth abroad are:

Spring exchanges March 12-20, 2016
  • Reggio Emilia, Italy: Sandy Yeandle, Daggett Montessori & Vicki Delgado, Leonard MS
  • Trier, Germany: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest HS & Beth Weibel, Sr. Program Manager, Fort Worth Sister Cities
  • Budapest, Hungary: Jay Kurima, FWISD TABS & Ana Castenada, South Hills High School
  • Toluca, Mexico: Nathan Henderson, Stripling Middle School & Rachel Jenkins, UTA
Summer exchanges June 10-August 4, 2016
  • Guiyang, China, June 10-19:  Tracey Cravens, Northside HS & Cindy Vasquez, City of FW
  • Nagaoka, Japan, June 22-July 1: Kathy Roemer, Fort Worth Country Day & Maria Saucedo, World Languages Institute
  • Nagaoka, Japan: July 27-August 4: Kimberly Tezak-Daus, Diamond Hill Jarvis High School & James Gleaton, Paschal High School

“International exchanges give students possibly their first opportunity to travel abroad, which is almost always described as a life-changing experience. Without these amazing teachers and professionals to lead the students through sometimes difficult and unfamiliar circumstances, this would not be possible,” said Michael Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

Local educators benefit greatly from travel abroad programs.  They have the opportunity to develop their craft by being exposed to different people and cultures, gain leadership skills by mentoring students outside the classroom, network with international educators, and travel to rich and interesting cultures.

Women’s Policy Forum Partners With Sister Cities

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX— Delegation to visit Toluca, Mexico for Women’s Symposia

Toluca, MexicoThe Women’s Policy Forum of Tarrant County in partnership with Fort Worth Sister Cities International are sending a delegation of top women in leadership for an impactful visit to Fort Worth’s sister city of Toluca, Mexico October 28-November 1.

The group will participate in a three-day symposia focused on women’s issues of respect, health, and education in both Fort Worth and Toluca and will discuss the challenges and solutions. Toluca will send a similar group to Fort Worth to continue the conversation in 2016.

cosmovitralThe delegation consists of: Patricia Alridge, John Peter Smith Hospital; Patricia Cheong, United Way of Tarrant County; Margaret DeMoss, retired public health professional; Judith Harman, community volunteer; Hilde Horchler, community volunteer; Julie Johncox Siglinger, JP Solutions; Cynthia Johnson, Courage and Renewal North Texas; Cathy Kyle, community volunteer; Elizabeth Lawrence, Museum of the Americas; Tracy Marshall, Fort Worth ISD; Chelsea Marshall, World Affairs Council of DFW; Danielle McCown, Fort Worth Sister Cities International; MaryAnn Means Dufrene, Susan G. Komen of Greater Fort Worth; Cynthia Miller, Fort Worth Chamber; Deborah Peoples, community volunteer; Ann Rice, community volunteer; Ronda Stucker, community volunteer.

DiasDeMuertos-Catrinas_2Toluca, Mexico is Fort Worth’s closest Sister City. Signed in 1998, this partnership has resulted in many programs such as: middle, high, and university school partnerships; municipal and economic forums, as well as trade missions; monarch butterfly tourism; culture, language, and mentoring programs; university interns; and police training programs.

While in Toluca the delegation will also experience Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). This is a holiday celebrated throughout Mexico and around the world focusing on family and friends and their departed loved ones. The group will experience an authentic celebration of this special occasion with friends from Toluca.

2015-09-23 12:14

Women’s Policy Forum Partners With Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX— Delegation to visit Toluca, Mexico for Women’s Symposia

Toluca, MexicoThe Women’s Policy Forum of Tarrant County in partnership with Fort Worth Sister Cities International are sending a delegation of top women in leadership for an impactful visit to Fort Worth’s sister city of Toluca, Mexico October 28-November 1.

The group will participate in a three-day symposia focused on women’s issues of respect, health, and education in both Fort Worth and Toluca and will discuss the challenges and solutions. Toluca will send a similar group to Fort Worth to continue the conversation in 2016.

cosmovitralThe delegation consists of: Patricia Alridge, John Peter Smith Hospital; Patricia Cheong, United Way of Tarrant County; Margaret DeMoss, retired public health professional; Judith Harman, community volunteer; Hilde Horchler, community volunteer; Julie Johncox Siglinger, JP Solutions; Cynthia Johnson, Courage and Renewal North Texas; Cathy Kyle, community volunteer; Elizabeth Lawrence, Museum of the Americas; Tracy Marshall, Fort Worth ISD; Chelsea Marshall, World Affairs Council of DFW; Danielle McCown, Fort Worth Sister Cities International; MaryAnn Means Dufrene, Susan G. Komen of Greater Fort Worth; Cynthia Miller, Fort Worth Chamber; Deborah Peoples, community volunteer; Ann Rice, community volunteer; Ronda Stucker, community volunteer.

DiasDeMuertos-Catrinas_2Toluca, Mexico is Fort Worth’s closest Sister City. Signed in 1998, this partnership has resulted in many programs such as: middle, high, and university school partnerships; municipal and economic forums, as well as trade missions; monarch butterfly tourism; culture, language, and mentoring programs; university interns; and police training programs.

While in Toluca the delegation will also experience Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). This is a holiday celebrated throughout Mexico and around the world focusing on family and friends and their departed loved ones. The group will experience an authentic celebration of this special occasion with friends from Toluca.

Sister Cities Elects New Leadership

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
FORT WORTH, TX – Membership celebrates 30 Years of Service to Fort Worth
Mayor Price
Honorary Board Chair Mayor Betsy Price
Newly elected officers at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 30th annual meeting were Board Chair, Michael Bennett, Bennett Benner Partners; Chair- Elect Johnny Campbell, Sundance Square; Secretary, Lu Pham, Dowell Pham Harrison LLP; and Treasurer, Walter Stucker, UBS Financial Services. Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price serves as Honorary Chair.

New board members include: Michael Crain, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty; Ashley Freer, Balcom Agency; Sheryl Harris, PhD, Tarrant County College; Drew Herring, Broadway Baptist Church; and Walter Stucker, UBS Financial Services.

Michael Bennett
Chairman of the Board Michael Bennett

“The annual meeting is a time to review accomplishments and recognize those responsible for our successes,” said Johnny Campbell, Chair-Elect of the Board. A few of the year’s accomplishments were highlighted by President and CEO Mae Ferguson who said, “This year we celebrated our 30th anniversary. We sent delegations to Italy, Germany, Vietnam and Mexico.  We coordinated youth exchanges to seven cities for nearly 200 students, welcomed 165 students and educators here, and made a $2.3 million economic impact on the City of Fort Worth.”

Ann Rice
2015 Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership recipient Ann Rice

Sister Cities also presented two awards at the annual meeting. The Bank of Texas was awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement presented by the DFW International Airport and Ann Rice was awarded the prestigious Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership.

Other elected officers include: Ann Rice; Greg Irwin, BBVA Compass Bank; Michael Hyatt, UBS Financial Services; Staussa Ervin, PhD, TCC; Travis DeVault, BNSF Railways, Richard Casarez, ONCOR; James Meintjes, JP Morgan Chase and Mary Jo Polidore, DFW International Airport. City chairs included: Paul Geisel, PhD, Greg Jackson, Michael Crain, Michael Roemer, PhD; Veronica and Tom Law; and Anette Soto.

 “We have many things to look forward to next year. We’re going to Cuba in January and China in June; we’re welcoming new mayors from Italy and Germany; and we have nearly 100 students going to each of our sister cities on educational exchanges,” said Campbell. “We do this because we’re citizen diplomats. We care what the world thinks about the U.S.A. and we want to know more about the rest of the world.”

2015-09-23 12:05

Sister Cities Elects New Leadership

FORT WORTH, TX – Membership celebrates 30 Years of Service to Fort Worth

Mayor Price
Honorary Board Chair Mayor Betsy Price
Newly elected officers at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 30th annual meeting were Board Chair, Michael Bennett, Bennett Benner Partners; Chair- Elect Johnny Campbell, Sundance Square; Secretary, Lu Pham, Dowell Pham Harrison LLP; and Treasurer, Walter Stucker, UBS Financial Services. Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price serves as Honorary Chair.

New board members include: Michael Crain, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty; Ashley Freer, Balcom Agency; Sheryl Harris, PhD, Tarrant County College; Drew Herring, Broadway Baptist Church; and Walter Stucker, UBS Financial Services.

Michael Bennett
Chairman of the Board Michael Bennett

“The annual meeting is a time to review accomplishments and recognize those responsible for our successes,” said Johnny Campbell, Chair-Elect of the Board. A few of the year’s accomplishments were highlighted by President and CEO Mae Ferguson who said, “This year we celebrated our 30th anniversary. We sent delegations to Italy, Germany, Vietnam and Mexico.  We coordinated youth exchanges to seven cities for nearly 200 students, welcomed 165 students and educators here, and made a $2.3 million economic impact on the City of Fort Worth.”

Ann Rice
2015 Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership recipient Ann Rice

Sister Cities also presented two awards at the annual meeting. The Bank of Texas was awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement presented by the DFW International Airport and Ann Rice was awarded the prestigious Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership.

Other elected officers include: Ann Rice; Greg Irwin, BBVA Compass Bank; Michael Hyatt, UBS Financial Services; Staussa Ervin, PhD, TCC; Travis DeVault, BNSF Railways, Richard Casarez, ONCOR; James Meintjes, JP Morgan Chase and Mary Jo Polidore, DFW International Airport. City chairs included: Paul Geisel, PhD, Greg Jackson, Michael Crain, Michael Roemer, PhD; Veronica and Tom Law; and Anette Soto.

 “We have many things to look forward to next year. We’re going to Cuba in January and China in June; we’re welcoming new mayors from Italy and Germany; and we have nearly 100 students going to each of our sister cities on educational exchanges,” said Campbell. “We do this because we’re citizen diplomats. We care what the world thinks about the U.S.A. and we want to know more about the rest of the world.”

Fort Worth Youth Ambassadors Visit Japan

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX –  Sister Cities provides unique opportunity for Fort Worth youth.

Since 1990, The Harashin Co. of Nagaoka, Japan has funded scholarships for eight Fort Worth students and two teachers to travel there for an educational and cultural enrichment exchange. In return, the families of these Fort Worth students host students and teachers from Nagaoka in their homes for a reciprocal exchange.

This program and all the scholarships have been funded by the Hara family and Harashin Co. Ltd. of Nagaoka. For nearly 26 years of this program, it is estimated that over $2 million has been generously donated.

Exchange programs are a key element in the overall programs of Fort Worth Sister Cities International and this unique opportunity for Fort Worth students is no exception. The students depart July 26 for a week long exchange and the Japanese students will be in Fort Worth August 7 -15.

Exchanges with each of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities provide youth the opportunity to spend 9-15 days with an international host family and experience their history, culture and customs. This is done as citizen diplomats and gives students a better understanding of other cultures providing them an international education only these programs can offer.

All student applicants (grades 9-12) participate in a vigorous selection process including teacher recommendations, essays and personal interviews. The Harashin Scholars are required to attend monthly cultural orientations to further enrich their international experience and prepare them for the exchange.

Harashin scholars include: Rose Bailey, Bob Chao, Samuel DeRobertis, Zoe DeRobertis, Alyssa McClean, Nate Wallace, and Ameera Zaman, accompanied by Tara Forrest and Roselyne Tembiwa, delegation leaders.

Home hosting make these programs possible.  Become a home host to an international student for an amazing experience!

2015-07-28 11:09

Fort Worth Youth Ambassadors Visit Japan

Fort Worth, TX –  Sister Cities provides unique opportunity for Fort Worth youth.

Since 1990, The Harashin Co. of Nagaoka, Japan has funded scholarships for eight Fort Worth students and two teachers to travel there for an educational and cultural enrichment exchange. In return, the families of these Fort Worth students host students and teachers from Nagaoka in their homes for a reciprocal exchange.

This program and all the scholarships have been funded by the Hara family and Harashin Co. Ltd. of Nagaoka. For nearly 26 years of this program, it is estimated that over $2 million has been generously donated.

Exchange programs are a key element in the overall programs of Fort Worth Sister Cities International and this unique opportunity for Fort Worth students is no exception. The students depart July 26 for a week long exchange and the Japanese students will be in Fort Worth August 7 -15.

Exchanges with each of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities provide youth the opportunity to spend 9-15 days with an international host family and experience their history, culture and customs. This is done as citizen diplomats and gives students a better understanding of other cultures providing them an international education only these programs can offer.

All student applicants (grades 9-12) participate in a vigorous selection process including teacher recommendations, essays and personal interviews. The Harashin Scholars are required to attend monthly cultural orientations to further enrich their international experience and prepare them for the exchange.

Harashin scholars include: Rose Bailey, Bob Chao, Samuel DeRobertis, Zoe DeRobertis, Alyssa McClean, Nate Wallace, and Ameera Zaman, accompanied by Tara Forrest and Roselyne Tembiwa, delegation leaders.

Home hosting make these programs possible.  Become a home host to an international student for an amazing experience!