Future of AIFS, a New Global Village

Technological advancements and global markets have ushered in an exciting new era, one in which the need for cultural and foreign language skills is more pressing than ever. Today more of our country's leaders, representatives like Senator Biden and Senator Lugar, have begun to acknowledge the vital national importance of cultural immersion and study abroad. In 2004, Congress established a 17-member committee, the Lincoln Commission, to develop a program for expanding U.S. college study abroad. In 2005, the U.S. Senate voted unanimously to approve a resolution designating 2006 as the Year of Study Abroad.

Today, AIFS looks back proudly on its four decades of service to individuals and institutions. In the years to come, AIFS will continue to tap the entrepreneurial spirit of its early origins to find new and innovative ways to bring the world together.

"Study abroad is not merely a life-changing experience for those who pursue it; as the world becomes smaller, it is essential that our citizens understand other nations. To maintain our global leadership, we must give our students greater international educational opportunities."
Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

"Today, America's national security and our competitive ability are increasingly dependent on our relations and understanding of the rest of the world. Educational exchanges with foreign countries and the study of foreign languages are essential to our cultural diplomacy and an excellent way for young people to gain valuable experience that will aid them throughout their lives."
Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Richard G. Lugar