The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) at the U.S. Department of State was directed by Congress to conduct a comprehensive strategic review of its international exchange programs and deliver recommendations to Congressional committees.
These programs represent a cornerstone of U.S. public diplomacy, supporting cultural understanding and leadership development around the world. However, evolving geopolitical dynamics and operational complexities required an independent assessment of program effectiveness.
ECA needed an objective, credible review process to engage senior policymakers, diplomats, and program stakeholders, while producing actionable recommendations within a compressed timeframe.
Qorvis assembled a bipartisan working group of senior subject matter experts with deep diplomatic and policy experience. The group included former ambassadors and senior political appointees from both major U.S. political parties, ensuring credibility and balance. Participants included Ambassador Paula J. Dobriansky, former Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs; Ambassador Edward M. Gabriel, former U.S. Ambassador to Morocco and President of the American Task Force on Lebanon; and Ambassador Marisa Lino, former U.S. Ambassador to Albania.
The working group conducted an intensive stakeholder engagement process, carrying out more than 110 interviews with over 130 participants, including government officials, program administrators, and external partners.
Insights from these engagements were put into a comprehensive analysis, identifying opportunities to improve program performance, coordination, and long-term strategic impact.
Within four months, the working group delivered a comprehensive strategic assessment to inform Congress and strengthen the effectiveness of U.S. international exchange programs. The review provided actionable recommendations to enhance program design, operational efficiency, and alignment with broader U.S. foreign policy objectives.