Dear Friends of Utah Global Diplomacy:
For 50 years, Utah Global Diplomacy has risen above many daunting obstacles— wars, economic depressions, inward-facing administrations, terrorist attacks, and social injustices— to create a more just, peaceful, and prosperous world. Recognizing that the slow-down and pivot from in-person to virtual programming in 2020 was but a brief moment in time in our extraordinary history, I am dedicating this annual review to Utah Global Diplomacy's achievements over the last decade.
I don't recall where I read the following quote, but it goes, "the point of life is the same as the point of a story – character transformation." As a storyteller myself, the 2011 - 2020 Decade Review summarizes the vast amount of character transformation Utah Global Diplomacy has created by fostering community engagement through our programs. We have cultivated hundreds of experiences and stories that have molded Utah, the nation, and the world, all speaking to our values:
- Respect for all people and diverse perspectives;
- Personal and social responsibility;
- A belief that the people of the world are interconnected;
- Open and respectful dialogue.
In researching Utah Global Diplomacy's impact over the last decade, I read numerous stories about how lives were transformed after meeting our international visitors, attending lectures, or volunteering with our organization. What humbles me the most is you, the community that stood by our side as we weathered numerous global obstacles.
Thank you for making Utah Global Diplomacy an essential part of your life. I hope you enjoy exploring Utah's character transformation through global engagement over the last decade— it would not have been possible without you.
I look forward to connecting with you through our work over the next 10 years and beyond.
Globally,
Felecia Maxfield-Barrett
Executive Director
