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Fort Worth Looking at Possible French Partnership

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX – Sister Cities launches search

Fort Worth Sister Cities International has launched a long-range plan to select new sister cities in countries where they can build mutually beneficial relationships through education, exchanges and commerce.

“Our goal is to promote Fort Worth globally and enrich our local community. We find that important now more than ever,” said Johnny Campbell, board chairman and President of Sundance Square.

A delegation, led by the Mayor of Nîmes, France, the Presidents of the Chamber of Commerce and the University of Nîmes, as well as several Deputy Mayors, will arrive in Fort Worth at the end of the month to continue the conversation.

While here the group will meet with Mayor Price and other city officials, as well as community and business leaders from the Chamber of Commerce.  They will also visit area universities to discuss a partnership with the University of Nîmes and visit several cultural sites in the city.

Last year, Sister Cities sent a delegation to explore the potential partnership with Nîmes, France. The delegation returned with positive recommendations to move forward on this partnership and are looking forward to welcoming the delegation to Fort Worth.

Anyone interested in learning more about this possible connection with France or Fort Worth Sister Cities can visit www.fwsistercities.org or contact mae@fwsistercities.org.

2018-01-17 03:50

Fort Worth Looking at Possible French Partnership

FORT WORTH, TX – Sister Cities launches search

Fort Worth Sister Cities International has launched a long-range plan to select new sister cities in countries where they can build mutually beneficial relationships through education, exchanges and commerce.

“Our goal is to promote Fort Worth globally and enrich our local community. We find that important now more than ever,” said Johnny Campbell, board chairman and President of Sundance Square.

A delegation, led by the Mayor of Nîmes, France, the Presidents of the Chamber of Commerce and the University of Nîmes, as well as several Deputy Mayors, will arrive in Fort Worth at the end of the month to continue the conversation.

While here the group will meet with Mayor Price and other city officials, as well as community and business leaders from the Chamber of Commerce.  They will also visit area universities to discuss a partnership with the University of Nîmes and visit several cultural sites in the city.

Last year, Sister Cities sent a delegation to explore the potential partnership with Nîmes, France. The delegation returned with positive recommendations to move forward on this partnership and are looking forward to welcoming the delegation to Fort Worth.

Anyone interested in learning more about this possible connection with France or Fort Worth Sister Cities can visit www.fwsistercities.org or contact mae@fwsistercities.org.

Sister Cities Hiring Part-Time Leadership Academy Coordinator

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth Sister Cities is hiring a part-time Leadership Academy Coordinator to manage the International Leadership Academy (ILA) and Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA).

The International Leadership Academy is a dynamic summer leadership programs bringing Fort Worth students together with students from our Sister Cities in China, Germany, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico and Swaziland.

Jr. ILA is open to sixth- through eighth-grade students and focuses on cultural understanding taught by international college students from Mexico and Swaziland who have participated in previous ILA programs.

If interested, please email resume and cover letter to beth@fwsistercities.org

Job Description

Job Specifications

High school education or equivalent is required. Must have project management experience and possess the ability to meet deadlines. Must work well under pressure. Good organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills are required. Must be able to prioritize and handle projects from start to finish. Visual and mental concentration is necessary for working at computer for extended periods of time and tolerating frequent interruptions while performing tasks.

Key Activities

(1) Work with leadership and staff on all aspects of ILA/JILA

(2) Recruit, train and supervise Fort Worth and international interns

(3) Oversee management and acquisition of all supplies

(4) Assist leaders with pre-Academy training sessions for local students

(5) Oversee arrival/departure of all international participants

(6) Oversee successful home hosting experiences for international delegates

(6) Provide 24/7 on-call service during ILA

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the position. Employees holding this position will be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by management. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.

2017-12-22 10:51

Sister Cities Hiring Part-Time Leadership Academy Coordinator

Fort Worth Sister Cities is hiring a part-time Leadership Academy Coordinator to manage the International Leadership Academy (ILA) and Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA).

The International Leadership Academy is a dynamic summer leadership programs bringing Fort Worth students together with students from our Sister Cities in China, Germany, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico and Swaziland.

Jr. ILA is open to sixth- through eighth-grade students and focuses on cultural understanding taught by international college students from Mexico and Swaziland who have participated in previous ILA programs.

If interested, please email resume and cover letter to beth@fwsistercities.org

Job Description

Job Specifications

High school education or equivalent is required. Must have project management experience and possess the ability to meet deadlines. Must work well under pressure. Good organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills are required. Must be able to prioritize and handle projects from start to finish. Visual and mental concentration is necessary for working at computer for extended periods of time and tolerating frequent interruptions while performing tasks.

Key Activities

(1) Work with leadership and staff on all aspects of ILA/JILA

(2) Recruit, train and supervise Fort Worth and international interns

(3) Oversee management and acquisition of all supplies

(4) Assist leaders with pre-Academy training sessions for local students

(5) Oversee arrival/departure of all international participants

(6) Oversee successful home hosting experiences for international delegates

(6) Provide 24/7 on-call service during ILA

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the position. Employees holding this position will be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by management. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.

Students selected for 2018 youth exchanges

Posted on by Website Master

Harashin Scholars

Delegation Leaders:
  • Dawnelle Butler, Westlake Academy
  • Nicole Vallee, Tarrant County College
Students:
  • William Dibble, Trinity Valley School
  • Priscilla Gutierrez, Diamond Hill-Jarvis HS
  • Imani Kayembe, Richland HS
  • Will Lourcey, Trinity Valley School
  • Emily Pruitt, Marine Creek Collegiate
  • Rebecca Cichock, Arlington HS
  • Katelyn Parham, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Brigit Teschendorf, Timber Creek HS
Alternate: Samantha Cruz, Legacy HS

Reggio Emilia, Italy

Delegation Leaders:
  • Angelia Ross, International Newcomer Academy
  • Dalynn Cross, Diamond Hill Jarvis HS
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Edward Ayala, Tarrant County College
Students:
  • Karen Arreguin, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Karen Ayala, TABS
  • Liliana Bermudez, Nolan Catholic HS
  • DJ Carter, Arlington Heights HS
  • Alexandra Galloway, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Leticia Garcia, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Randito Howard, R.L. Paschal HS
  • John Nolan, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Jamil Okada, Colleyville Heritage HS
  • Aman Patel, Arlington Heights HS
  • Hemmingway Simmons, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Carlos Turcios, World Languages Institute

Trier, Germany

Delegation Leaders:
  • Gina Powell, Young Men’s Leadership Academy
  • Christian Gehman, Trinity Valley School
Students:
  • Sebastian Archibald, Arlington Heights HS
  • Trinity Crockett, World Languages Institute
  • Abigail Dillon, Arlington Heights HS
  • Beckett Frijs, Arlington Heights HS
  • Sarah Morton, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Karla Olivo, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Jacobi Reddix, All Saints Episcopal

Budapest, Hungary

Delegation Leader
  • Andreanne Annis, Fort Worth Country Day School
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Arian Martinez, Tarrant County College
Students:
  • Alma Briones, Northside HS
  • Samantha Cruz, Legacy HS
  • Vanessa Garcia, TABS
  • Gabriela Gomez, Nolan Catholic HS
  • Rafael Gomez, Nolan Catholic HS
  • Angely Hernandez, Arlington Heights HS
  • Mario Terrell III, Young Men’s Leadership Academy

Toluca, Mexico

Delegation Leader
  • Joe Ayala, Western Hills HS
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Nancy Martinez, Sam Houston State
Students:
  • Roberto Aguilar, Arlington Heights HS
  • Brett Crumbie, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Asheria Hart, Cedar Hill Collegiate HS
  • Ben Orr, Anderson Private School
  • Evelyn Tapia, Western Hills HS

Nîmes, France

Delegation Leaders:
  • Jay Kurima, TABS
  • Marvin Vann Griffith, World Languages Institute
Students:
  • Sofia Camacho, Southwest HS
  • Hillary Fillmore, Southwest Christian HS
  • Lilian Hicks, TABS
  • Trinity Lee, Ranchview HS
  • Will Lourcey, Trinity Valley School
  • Kareli Olivo, TABS
  • Karla Olivo, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Clarissa Ramirez, Diamond Hill-Jarvis HS
  • Karli Reed, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Hemmingway Simmons, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Lesli Sotelo, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Katherine Villegas, R.L. Paschal HS

Mbabane, Swaziland

Delegation Leaders:
  • Stephen Blan, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Kimberly Tezak Daus, Diamond Hill-Jarvis HS
Associate Delegation Leaders:
  • Madeline Hale, University of Texas at Dallas
  • Jailine Garcia, Tarrant County College
Students:
  • Alexandra Galloway, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Vanessa Garcia, TABS
  • Alana Hawkins, Cedar Hill Collegiate
  • Brady O’Donald, Marine Creek Collegiate
  • Kaila O’Donald, Marine Creek Collegiate
  • Campbell Robinson, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Will Thomas, Fort Worth Country Day School

Nagaoka, Japan

Delegation Leaders:
  • James Gleaton, Tarrant County College
  • Courtney Smith, Como Montessori
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Rubi Roy, Tarrant County College
Students:
  • Alma Briones, Northside HS
  • Luis Camacho, World Languages Institute
  • Kevin Campos, World Languages Institute
  • Kaya Emanuel, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Victoria Gomez, Nolan Catholic HS
  • Stephanie Galaviz, Western Hills HS
  • Bronwyn Logan, H.F. Stephens Middle School
  • Paola Mendoza, Northside HS
  • Natalie Moreno, World Languages Institute
  • Jorge Muñoz, World Languages Institute
  • Holy Navarro, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Reshma Niraula, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Lexi O’Brien, Boswell HS
  • Skyler Porter, Como Montessori School
  • Jacobi Reddix, All Saints Episcopal
  • Litzully Sosa, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Shea Sullivan, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Andrea Torres, World Languages Institute
  • Cora Valderas, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Yoselin Yanez, R.L. Paschal HS

2017-11-30 10:36

Students selected for 2018 youth exchanges

Harashin Scholars

Delegation Leaders:
  • Dawnelle Butler, Westlake Academy
  • Nicole Vallee, Tarrant County College
Students:
  • William Dibble, Trinity Valley School
  • Priscilla Gutierrez, Diamond Hill-Jarvis HS
  • Imani Kayembe, Richland HS
  • Will Lourcey, Trinity Valley School
  • Emily Pruitt, Marine Creek Collegiate
  • Rebecca Cichock, Arlington HS
  • Katelyn Parham, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Brigit Teschendorf, Timber Creek HS
Alternate: Samantha Cruz, Legacy HS

Reggio Emilia, Italy

Delegation Leaders:
  • Angelia Ross, International Newcomer Academy
  • Dalynn Cross, Diamond Hill Jarvis HS
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Edward Ayala, Tarrant County College
Students:
  • Karen Arreguin, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Karen Ayala, TABS
  • Liliana Bermudez, Nolan Catholic HS
  • DJ Carter, Arlington Heights HS
  • Alexandra Galloway, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Leticia Garcia, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Randito Howard, R.L. Paschal HS
  • John Nolan, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Jamil Okada, Colleyville Heritage HS
  • Aman Patel, Arlington Heights HS
  • Hemmingway Simmons, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Carlos Turcios, World Languages Institute

Trier, Germany

Delegation Leaders:
  • Gina Powell, Young Men’s Leadership Academy
  • Christian Gehman, Trinity Valley School
Students:
  • Sebastian Archibald, Arlington Heights HS
  • Trinity Crockett, World Languages Institute
  • Abigail Dillon, Arlington Heights HS
  • Beckett Frijs, Arlington Heights HS
  • Sarah Morton, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Karla Olivo, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Jacobi Reddix, All Saints Episcopal

Budapest, Hungary

Delegation Leader
  • Andreanne Annis, Fort Worth Country Day School
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Arian Martinez, Tarrant County College
Students:
  • Alma Briones, Northside HS
  • Samantha Cruz, Legacy HS
  • Vanessa Garcia, TABS
  • Gabriela Gomez, Nolan Catholic HS
  • Rafael Gomez, Nolan Catholic HS
  • Angely Hernandez, Arlington Heights HS
  • Mario Terrell III, Young Men’s Leadership Academy

Toluca, Mexico

Delegation Leader
  • Joe Ayala, Western Hills HS
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Nancy Martinez, Sam Houston State
Students:
  • Roberto Aguilar, Arlington Heights HS
  • Brett Crumbie, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Asheria Hart, Cedar Hill Collegiate HS
  • Ben Orr, Anderson Private School
  • Evelyn Tapia, Western Hills HS

Nîmes, France

Delegation Leaders:
  • Jay Kurima, TABS
  • Marvin Vann Griffith, World Languages Institute
Students:
  • Sofia Camacho, Southwest HS
  • Hillary Fillmore, Southwest Christian HS
  • Lilian Hicks, TABS
  • Trinity Lee, Ranchview HS
  • Will Lourcey, Trinity Valley School
  • Kareli Olivo, TABS
  • Karla Olivo, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Clarissa Ramirez, Diamond Hill-Jarvis HS
  • Karli Reed, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Hemmingway Simmons, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Lesli Sotelo, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Katherine Villegas, R.L. Paschal HS

Mbabane, Swaziland

Delegation Leaders:
  • Stephen Blan, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Kimberly Tezak Daus, Diamond Hill-Jarvis HS
Associate Delegation Leaders:
  • Madeline Hale, University of Texas at Dallas
  • Jailine Garcia, Tarrant County College
Students:
  • Alexandra Galloway, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Vanessa Garcia, TABS
  • Alana Hawkins, Cedar Hill Collegiate
  • Brady O’Donald, Marine Creek Collegiate
  • Kaila O’Donald, Marine Creek Collegiate
  • Campbell Robinson, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Will Thomas, Fort Worth Country Day School

Nagaoka, Japan

Delegation Leaders:
  • James Gleaton, Tarrant County College
  • Courtney Smith, Como Montessori
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Rubi Roy, Tarrant County College
Students:
  • Alma Briones, Northside HS
  • Luis Camacho, World Languages Institute
  • Kevin Campos, World Languages Institute
  • Kaya Emanuel, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Victoria Gomez, Nolan Catholic HS
  • Stephanie Galaviz, Western Hills HS
  • Bronwyn Logan, H.F. Stephens Middle School
  • Paola Mendoza, Northside HS
  • Natalie Moreno, World Languages Institute
  • Jorge Muñoz, World Languages Institute
  • Holy Navarro, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Reshma Niraula, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Lexi O’Brien, Boswell HS
  • Skyler Porter, Como Montessori School
  • Jacobi Reddix, All Saints Episcopal
  • Litzully Sosa, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Shea Sullivan, R.L. Paschal HS
  • Andrea Torres, World Languages Institute
  • Cora Valderas, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Yoselin Yanez, R.L. Paschal HS

US/Russian Relations From An Insider’s Perspective

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX – Timely topic for Sister Cities forum

Join Fort Worth Sister Cities International to hear about Russia Today from an Insider’s Perspective, October 11, noon at Texas Christian University’s Dee J. Kelly Alumni & Visitors Center. The event is open to the public and tickets can be purchased at www.fwsistercities.org/event/us-russia.

The event will include an analysis of US and Russia relations by Sharon Tennison, President and Founder of the Center for Citizen Initiatives (CCI).

CCI’s mission is to conduct a series of Citizen-to-Citizen initiatives and exchanges, buttressed by official media PR and social media networks across America and across Russia. They wish to bring the two peoples together, including those in leadership to listen and learn and hammer out ways to cooperate rather than plot war against the other.

“After hearing Tennison speak on this subject earlier this year, we decided to host her in Fort Worth to hear about what it’s really like on the ground in Russia today and how we can help with more peaceful relations,” said Mae Ferguson, President/CEO of Fort Worth Sister Cities.

Tennison has written a book on the subject, entitled The Power of Impossible Ideas: Ordinary Citizens’ Extraordinary Efforts to Avert International Crises and travels back and forth frequently between the two countries.

A small group of Fort Worth participants may travel to Russia in the Spring 2018.

For more information about joining the mission to Russia and to make your reservation for the luncheon, please contact Danielle at 817/632-7106 or danielle@fwsistercities.org.

2017-10-05 10:50

US/Russian Relations From An Insider’s Perspective

Fort Worth, TX – Timely topic for Sister Cities forum

Join Fort Worth Sister Cities International to hear about Russia Today from an Insider’s Perspective, October 11, noon at Texas Christian University’s Dee J. Kelly Alumni & Visitors Center. The event is open to the public and tickets can be purchased at www.fwsistercities.org/event/us-russia.

The event will include an analysis of US and Russia relations by Sharon Tennison, President and Founder of the Center for Citizen Initiatives (CCI).

CCI’s mission is to conduct a series of Citizen-to-Citizen initiatives and exchanges, buttressed by official media PR and social media networks across America and across Russia. They wish to bring the two peoples together, including those in leadership to listen and learn and hammer out ways to cooperate rather than plot war against the other.

“After hearing Tennison speak on this subject earlier this year, we decided to host her in Fort Worth to hear about what it’s really like on the ground in Russia today and how we can help with more peaceful relations,” said Mae Ferguson, President/CEO of Fort Worth Sister Cities.

Tennison has written a book on the subject, entitled The Power of Impossible Ideas: Ordinary Citizens’ Extraordinary Efforts to Avert International Crises and travels back and forth frequently between the two countries.

A small group of Fort Worth participants may travel to Russia in the Spring 2018.

For more information about joining the mission to Russia and to make your reservation for the luncheon, please contact Danielle at 817/632-7106 or danielle@fwsistercities.org.

Japanese Mayor Leading Delegation to Fort Worth

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, Texas – Celebrating 30 years of partnership

Fort Worth Sister Cities International will welcome a delegation of people from Nagaoka, Japan to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Sister Cities partnership between Fort Worth and Nagaoka on October 27, 2017.

Led by the Mayor of Nagaoka, Tatsunobu Isoda, the delegation plans to visit with Fort Worth City Council members and Mayor Betsy Price, tour Sundance Square and the Cultural District, attend the Japanese Fall Festival in the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, and participate in an educators panel discussion at the Botanical Research Institute of Texas.

On October 28, a 30th anniversary celebration dinner will be held in Mayor Isoda’s honor at Billy Bob’s Texas. Tickets to the celebration include dinner and a ticket to the Trace Adkins concert that evening. To buy tickets go to: www.fwsistercities.org/event/nagaoka-30th-anniversary/

“We are excited to welcome our guests and show them what Fort Worth has to offer, as well as to celebrate thirty years of friendship which is something to be valued and is more important today than ever before,” said Jane Bass, Chair of the Nagaoka 30th Anniversary committee.

A delegation from Fort Worth plans to visit Nagaoka in 2018 to continue the 30th anniversary celebrations.

For more information or to make your reservation, please contact Danielle at 817-632-7106 or danielle@fwsistercities.org.

2017-09-28 12:28

Japanese Mayor Leading Delegation to Fort Worth

Fort Worth, Texas – Celebrating 30 years of partnership

Fort Worth Sister Cities International will welcome a delegation of people from Nagaoka, Japan to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Sister Cities partnership between Fort Worth and Nagaoka on October 27, 2017.

Led by the Mayor of Nagaoka, Tatsunobu Isoda, the delegation plans to visit with Fort Worth City Council members and Mayor Betsy Price, tour Sundance Square and the Cultural District, attend the Japanese Fall Festival in the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, and participate in an educators panel discussion at the Botanical Research Institute of Texas.

On October 28, a 30th anniversary celebration dinner will be held in Mayor Isoda’s honor at Billy Bob’s Texas. Tickets to the celebration include dinner and a ticket to the Trace Adkins concert that evening. To buy tickets go to: www.fwsistercities.org/event/nagaoka-30th-anniversary/

“We are excited to welcome our guests and show them what Fort Worth has to offer, as well as to celebrate thirty years of friendship which is something to be valued and is more important today than ever before,” said Jane Bass, Chair of the Nagaoka 30th Anniversary committee.

A delegation from Fort Worth plans to visit Nagaoka in 2018 to continue the 30th anniversary celebrations.

For more information or to make your reservation, please contact Danielle at 817-632-7106 or danielle@fwsistercities.org.

Fort Worth Elects Global Leaders

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX – Sundance Square’s Johnny Campbell Leads Sister Cities

Newly elected officers at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 32nd Annual Meeting, are Secretary, Casey Dyer Oliver, Texas A&M University; Treasurer, Frank Tilley, SeatonHill; Development Chair, Julie Johncox, JP Solutions; Government Relations Chair, Michael Crain, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty; and Exchanges & Outreach Chair, Dr. Sheryl Harris, Tarrant County College.

New board members include: PJ Budler, the Cattle Market; Mark Davidovich, JP Morgan; Vishal Gandhi, Hillwood; Ratna Goenardi, Sugar Biscuit Cakery; Andrew Johnsen, BNSF Railway Company; Cindy Milrany, Freese & Nichols; Andy Roseliep, Bank of America; Andy Taft, Downtown Fort Worth, Inc.; and Libby Watson.

The Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership was awarded to Greg Irwin.  The Fort Worth Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas and Women’s Policy Forum were awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement and Sherri Whiting was awarded the prestigious Volunteer of the Year award.

Tim Quigley, Chairman of the national office of Sister Cities International in Washington, D.C., spoke to the Members Circle about the importance of sister city relationships and the close connection with Department of State priorities. “When public policy fails, citizen diplomacy is our connective tissue,” Quigley told the crowd.

Board members returning for a 2nd term include: Veronica Chavez Law, Michael Parker, and Lu Pham. City chairs include: Ratna Goenardi, Bandung; Greg Jackson, Budapest; Nommo Donald, Mbabane; Libby Watson, Nagaoka; Tom Law, Jr., Reggio Emilia; Anette Soto, Toluca; and Hannah Behrens, Trier. 

Fort Worth Sister Cities celebrated raising $300,000 for its annual Members Circle campaign with the help of Campaign Chair, Bob Jameson, and is setting a launch for the 2018 campaign for January 2, 2018. 

The Members Circle is a thriving network of individuals, organizations, corporations, and community leaders committed to expanding global relationships for peace and prosperity at home and abroad. For information on joining the Members Circle, contact Danielle at 817-632-7106 or danielle@fwsistercities.org.

2017-09-25 10:49

Fort Worth Elects Global Leaders

Fort Worth, TX – Sundance Square’s Johnny Campbell Leads Sister Cities

Newly elected officers at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 32nd Annual Meeting, are Secretary, Casey Dyer Oliver, Texas A&M University; Treasurer, Frank Tilley, SeatonHill; Development Chair, Julie Johncox, JP Solutions; Government Relations Chair, Michael Crain, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty; and Exchanges & Outreach Chair, Dr. Sheryl Harris, Tarrant County College.

New board members include: PJ Budler, the Cattle Market; Mark Davidovich, JP Morgan; Vishal Gandhi, Hillwood; Ratna Goenardi, Sugar Biscuit Cakery; Andrew Johnsen, BNSF Railway Company; Cindy Milrany, Freese & Nichols; Andy Roseliep, Bank of America; Andy Taft, Downtown Fort Worth, Inc.; and Libby Watson.

The Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership was awarded to Greg Irwin.  The Fort Worth Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas and Women’s Policy Forum were awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement and Sherri Whiting was awarded the prestigious Volunteer of the Year award.

Tim Quigley, Chairman of the national office of Sister Cities International in Washington, D.C., spoke to the Members Circle about the importance of sister city relationships and the close connection with Department of State priorities. “When public policy fails, citizen diplomacy is our connective tissue,” Quigley told the crowd.

Board members returning for a 2nd term include: Veronica Chavez Law, Michael Parker, and Lu Pham. City chairs include: Ratna Goenardi, Bandung; Greg Jackson, Budapest; Nommo Donald, Mbabane; Libby Watson, Nagaoka; Tom Law, Jr., Reggio Emilia; Anette Soto, Toluca; and Hannah Behrens, Trier. 

Fort Worth Sister Cities celebrated raising $300,000 for its annual Members Circle campaign with the help of Campaign Chair, Bob Jameson, and is setting a launch for the 2018 campaign for January 2, 2018. 

The Members Circle is a thriving network of individuals, organizations, corporations, and community leaders committed to expanding global relationships for peace and prosperity at home and abroad. For information on joining the Members Circle, contact Danielle at 817-632-7106 or danielle@fwsistercities.org.

German Mayor Leading Delegation of 53 to Fort Worth

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, Texas – Celebrating 30 years of partnership

Fort Worth Sister Cities International will welcome a delegation of 53 people from Trier, Germany to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Sister Cities partnership between Fort Worth and Trier on September 30, 2017.

Led by the Mayor of Trier, Wolfram Leibe, the delegation plans to visit with Fort Worth City Council members and City Manager David Cooke, tour Sundance Square, and take part in a Reaffirmation Ceremony with Mayor Price. At mid-day on October 2, the famous Stadtgarde Augusta Trevororum, the official marching band of Trier, will perform in Sundance Square. This group travels on all official visits with the mayor and it is an honor to have them perform in Fort Worth.

This exchange comes after a delegation from Fort Worth visited Trier in 2016 to leverage Fort Worth’s long-standing friendship with Trier and capitalize on the opportunity to grow a new platform in the business sphere of influence.

“Our visit to Trier was just the beginning of continued growth.  The business counterpart meetings created value and experience to think and grow small business internationally,” said Johnny Campbell, Chairman of the Board of Fort Worth Sister Cities. “We are excited to welcome our guests and show them what Fort Worth has to offer, as well as to celebrate thirty years of friendship which is something to be valued and is more important today than ever before.”

Click here for more information about the visit and how you can participate

2017-08-28 09:58

German Mayor Leading Delegation of 53 to Fort Worth

Fort Worth, Texas – Celebrating 30 years of partnership

Fort Worth Sister Cities International will welcome a delegation of 53 people from Trier, Germany to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Sister Cities partnership between Fort Worth and Trier on September 30, 2017.

Led by the Mayor of Trier, Wolfram Leibe, the delegation plans to visit with Fort Worth City Council members and City Manager David Cooke, tour Sundance Square, and take part in a Reaffirmation Ceremony with Mayor Price. At mid-day on October 2, the famous Stadtgarde Augusta Trevororum, the official marching band of Trier, will perform in Sundance Square. This group travels on all official visits with the mayor and it is an honor to have them perform in Fort Worth.

This exchange comes after a delegation from Fort Worth visited Trier in 2016 to leverage Fort Worth’s long-standing friendship with Trier and capitalize on the opportunity to grow a new platform in the business sphere of influence.

“Our visit to Trier was just the beginning of continued growth.  The business counterpart meetings created value and experience to think and grow small business internationally,” said Johnny Campbell, Chairman of the Board of Fort Worth Sister Cities. “We are excited to welcome our guests and show them what Fort Worth has to offer, as well as to celebrate thirty years of friendship which is something to be valued and is more important today than ever before.”

Click here for more information about the visit and how you can participate

Rotary Leads Humanitarian Mission to Mbabane

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX – First Partnership with Rotary Club for 2017 Swaziland Mission

Fort Worth Sister Cities International, in partnership with the International Service Committee of the Rotary Club, is planning a mission to Mbabane, Swaziland. An adult delegation of 25 will travel to Fort Worth’s seventh sister city from Sept. 1 – 10, 2017. Participants will deliver 265 wheelchairs and 5 bicycles directly to those in need and teach the recipients how to maintain the chairs to provide income for them and sustain the project.

Additionally, Fort Worth Sister Cities is partnering with Dream Outside the Box founder Kam Phillips to provide “Dream Delivered” boxes to the Swazi children. These boxes, brimming with fun and educational activities and pamphlets, are designed to introduce children to diverse careers, such as forensic science, journalism, and archaeology.

“Our Swaziland trip is taking the Rotary Wheelchair program to the next level. We are not only distributing donated wheelchairs to those in need, we are establishing a wheelchair and bicycle repair shop business that Mbabane citizens will operate long after we are gone,” said David Campbell, Rotary President. “The training and equipment we will provide makes this project more sustainable, creating a legacy of trade skills that will ensure the repair of wheelchairs and bicycles we bring and provide jobs for years to come.”

Some participants are also staying an additional two nights at the Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge to experience a South African safari. With lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos, the group will see the “Big Five” up close and personal.

For more information about future Sister Cities exchanges, call Danielle at 817/632-7100 for more information.

2017-08-16 05:19

Rotary Leads Humanitarian Mission to Mbabane

Fort Worth, TX – First Partnership with Rotary Club for 2017 Swaziland Mission

Fort Worth Sister Cities International, in partnership with the International Service Committee of the Rotary Club, is planning a mission to Mbabane, Swaziland. An adult delegation of 25 will travel to Fort Worth’s seventh sister city from Sept. 1 – 10, 2017. Participants will deliver 265 wheelchairs and 5 bicycles directly to those in need and teach the recipients how to maintain the chairs to provide income for them and sustain the project.

Additionally, Fort Worth Sister Cities is partnering with Dream Outside the Box founder Kam Phillips to provide “Dream Delivered” boxes to the Swazi children. These boxes, brimming with fun and educational activities and pamphlets, are designed to introduce children to diverse careers, such as forensic science, journalism, and archaeology.

“Our Swaziland trip is taking the Rotary Wheelchair program to the next level. We are not only distributing donated wheelchairs to those in need, we are establishing a wheelchair and bicycle repair shop business that Mbabane citizens will operate long after we are gone,” said David Campbell, Rotary President. “The training and equipment we will provide makes this project more sustainable, creating a legacy of trade skills that will ensure the repair of wheelchairs and bicycles we bring and provide jobs for years to come.”

Some participants are also staying an additional two nights at the Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge to experience a South African safari. With lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos, the group will see the “Big Five” up close and personal.

For more information about future Sister Cities exchanges, call Danielle at 817/632-7100 for more information.

Fort Worth Youth Ambassadors Visit Japan & Prepare for Reciprocal Exchange

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 experience. In return, the families of these Fort Worth students host students and teachers from Nagaoka in their homes.

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

Fort Worth Harashin scholars include: Henry Chao, Charlie Estes, Valeria Gutierrez, Zoe Nichols-Payne, Jamil Okada, Matthew Ontiveros, Janrose Samson, Shay Smith, and delegation leaders Liliana Hinojosa and Mikako Daniel.

“Exchange programs are a key element in the overall programs of Fort Worth Sister Cities and this unique opportunity for students is no exception,” said Johnny Campbell, Chairman of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. The students depart July 26 for a week-long exchange and the Japanese students will be in Fort Worth August 8-16.

On August 14, Fort Worth and Nagaoka Harashin scholars will visit Globe Life Park for Japan America Friendship Night with the Texas Rangers. The students and delegation leaders will have the opportunity to take part in a pre-game flag ceremony on the field.

All student applicants (9th-11th grades) 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.

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. These students become citizen diplomats through this program.  It gives them a better understanding of other cultures providing them an international education only these programs can offer.

2017-07-26 09:13

Fort Worth Youth Ambassadors Visit Japan & Prepare for Reciprocal Exchange

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 experience. In return, the families of these Fort Worth students host students and teachers from Nagaoka in their homes.

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

Fort Worth Harashin scholars include: Henry Chao, Charlie Estes, Valeria Gutierrez, Zoe Nichols-Payne, Jamil Okada, Matthew Ontiveros, Janrose Samson, Shay Smith, and delegation leaders Liliana Hinojosa and Mikako Daniel.

“Exchange programs are a key element in the overall programs of Fort Worth Sister Cities and this unique opportunity for students is no exception,” said Johnny Campbell, Chairman of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. The students depart July 26 for a week-long exchange and the Japanese students will be in Fort Worth August 8-16.

On August 14, Fort Worth and Nagaoka Harashin scholars will visit Globe Life Park for Japan America Friendship Night with the Texas Rangers. The students and delegation leaders will have the opportunity to take part in a pre-game flag ceremony on the field.

All student applicants (9th-11th grades) 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.

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. These students become citizen diplomats through this program.  It gives them a better understanding of other cultures providing them an international education only these programs can offer.

International Students Attend Leadership Academies

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX: The Art of Diplomacy, Theme of Academies

High school students from around the world will descend on Fort Worth starting July 10.  Students from Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Mexico, and Swaziland, along with Fort Worth students, will be in Fort Worth for the 28th International Leadership Academy. The Academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through team-building and problem-solving using the art of diplomacy.

Since 1989, the International Leadership Academy (ILA) has brought young people from Fort Worth’s 8 sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, nearly 75 participants will converge at Texas Christian University (TCU) July 15 – 30 to share their cultures and learn about citizen diplomacy and its importance in today’s world.

Participants will live on the TCU campus and share a room with students from another country. They will attend classes that are designed to challenge stereotypes, highlight cultures, promote diplomatic dialogue, develop leadership skills, and solve global problems. Activities will also include visits to area businesses, museums, and other cultural venues specific to Fort Worth, as well as a community service project.

This year marks the 13th year of ILA’s middle school program, the Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA), held July 10—14. College students from Toluca, Mexico and Mbabane, Swaziland will serve as facilitators for Fort Worth students who will discuss the same issues as their high school counterparts, gaining international perspectives.

“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,” said Nancy Marchant, ILA and JILA Coordinator.

The closing ceremony for ILA takes place July 29, 10:00 a.m. at TCU’s BLUU Ballroom and is free and open to the public. For more info call 817/632-7100.

2017-07-07 10:51

International Students Attend Leadership Academies

Fort Worth, TX: The Art of Diplomacy, Theme of Academies

High school students from around the world will descend on Fort Worth starting July 10.  Students from Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Mexico, and Swaziland, along with Fort Worth students, will be in Fort Worth for the 28th International Leadership Academy. The Academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through team-building and problem-solving using the art of diplomacy.

Since 1989, the International Leadership Academy (ILA) has brought young people from Fort Worth’s 8 sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, nearly 75 participants will converge at Texas Christian University (TCU) July 15 – 30 to share their cultures and learn about citizen diplomacy and its importance in today’s world.

Participants will live on the TCU campus and share a room with students from another country. They will attend classes that are designed to challenge stereotypes, highlight cultures, promote diplomatic dialogue, develop leadership skills, and solve global problems. Activities will also include visits to area businesses, museums, and other cultural venues specific to Fort Worth, as well as a community service project.

This year marks the 13th year of ILA’s middle school program, the Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA), held July 10—14. College students from Toluca, Mexico and Mbabane, Swaziland will serve as facilitators for Fort Worth students who will discuss the same issues as their high school counterparts, gaining international perspectives.

“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,” said Nancy Marchant, ILA and JILA Coordinator.

The closing ceremony for ILA takes place July 29, 10:00 a.m. at TCU’s BLUU Ballroom and is free and open to the public. For more info call 817/632-7100.