News you can use.
The National Council is a key leadership body of AFS-USA composed of volunteers and senior staff who work collaboratively, to address and advance the organizational priorities of AFS-USA. As of July 1, 2025, the council welcomed a new Chair and Vice-Chair, Patti Rounsevell (Chair) and Jessica Robinson (Co-Chair).
In my recent op-ed, I share why person-to-person exchanges are not only meaningful, they’re essential.
Further to my message of May 28, I am pleased to share that various news sources have reported that the pause on scheduling visa appointments has been lifted.
Are you a volunteer leader in your team who wants to travel to Spain?
Anyone can nominate a worthy volunteer for an award!
You’ve probably read or heard news reports regarding a freeze on interviews for students seeking a variety of visas for the USA. I wanted to share some information relevant to our students planning to arrive this year.
Learn more about Ashe’s impactful journey as a first-time host parent!
We’re excited to share a powerful new video, “Alumni Voices,” featuring heartfelt reflections from exchange students around the world.
As in previous years, Representative Hank Johnson (D-GA-4) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) are circulating bipartisan sign-on letters in support of FY2026 funding for educational and cultural exchange programs.
In this short video message, I share a few thoughts about our ongoing efforts to recruit host families and send students abroad. I’ll also provide insight on the White House’s proposed budget and what it means for programs like ours.