On September 6, 2022, U.S. Consul General David Edginton welcomed alumni of the Fulbright, International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and Saudi Young Leaders Exchange Program (SYLEP) who just returned from their exchange programs to the United States. The event was organized at U.S. Consulate General Dhahran, hosting current and previous alumni from Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, who shared their experiences and the impact of the exchanges on their career and personal development.
The historic event not only recognized the Saudi alumni’s achievements but also marked the bittersweet closure of the old Consulate facility. Together the American diplomats and Saudi alumni bid farewell to the 70-year-old home of the U.S. Consulate, the last event for alumni before the Consulate’s move to its new, modern facility. Some Saudis shared memories of the U.S. Consulate as a steadfast presence in the history of the Eastern Province as Dhahran developed from an oil industry camp into the bustling tri-city hub of the region. Saying farewell to the past and opening the doors of the futuristic new Consulate is a testament to the two nations’ significant and long-standing relationship and optimism for the future.
On this momentous occasion, the keynote speech was delivered by the U.S. Consul General, David Edginton. C.G. Edginton underlined the unique contribution of the U.S. government to educational opportunities that allow them to explore, learn and communicate with different nations and share their experiences.
“This is a universal program; something that encapsulates the entire range of people. These people-to-people initiatives are among the most important programs we offer as they connect participants to learn and grow from their shared experiences.”
In his speech, C.G. Edginton compared SYLEP with the Fulbright scholarship, “SYLEP is something similar to Fulbright, the greatest moment of intellect in the history of the region and Saudi Arabia. SYLEP will dramatically affect the promotion and achievement of Vision 2030.”
The IVLP is the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program that gives experienced and emerging foreign professionals an opportunity to experience the United States and meet professionals in their field. Each year, approximately 5,000 international visitors travel to the U.S. through IVLP. SYLEP is a three-week program focused on developing leadership skills, respect for cultural diversity, social participation, and volunteering. The goals of SYLEP are to promote understanding between the U.S. and Saudi people and to prepare young leaders to become responsible citizens and members of their communities.
Since its start in 1946 after World War II by Senator J. William Fulbright, the Fulbright undergraduate program has established connections with more than 140 countries worldwide. The Fulbright programs offer unparalleled opportunities in all academic disciplines for passionate and experienced college graduates, graduate students, and young professionals from all walks of life.
