For nearly 30 years, AIF’s
programs have worked to strengthen academic, corporate, organizational,
and personal ties between Northeast Ohio and the world. AIF highlights the
many strong resources of Akron and Northeast Ohio. Akron International
Friendship creates a positive view of Americans, helps to eliminate
negative stereotypes and creates understanding of other cultures.
1977 – On January 19,
twenty-four representatives of 16 civic organizations met to form Hosting
International Travelers (Predecessor of AIF). June Rodgers was elected
first President in March.
1978
– A total of 106 International Visitors from 9 countries were received by
Hosting International Travelers (HIT) and membership grew to 125 Families
and the Friendly Family Program (started by AIF member Paula Fulmerin,
1976) became a HIT Program. HIT is admitted into COSERVE (Predecessor of
NCIV – National Council for International Visitors – our National
Professional Association).
1982-83
– HIT membership includes over 300 families. Stark County’s Families
for World Understanding merges with HIT. President June Rodgers
receives a letter of accommodation from President Ronald Reagan stating
that HIT as a member of NCIV “has helped to strengthen America’s relations
with other countries.”
1987
– Drs. Glenn and Grace Mayes become Volunteer Co-Presidents of HIT and in
the early 1990s they create the Speaker’s Service and First Weekers
Programs.
1990
– HIT applies for and receives non-profit status.
1993
– HIT changes its name to Akron International Friendship (AIF).
1998
– AIF hosts 95 international visitors, 125 international students
participate in AIF programs, and the organization grows to 605 member
families and professional resources.
2001
– AIF, along with the NCIV network, is honored with being nominated for
the Nobel Peace Prize! AIF hosts 131 international visitors, more than any
previous year!
2003
– Michelle Wilson is appointed Executive Director. AIF transitions from an
all volunteer council for International Visitors (CIV) to a paid staff
CIV. Grace Mayer is honored at the National Conference with the first ever
Advocacy Award for her superb efforts on behalf of the NCIV network.
2004
– AIF completes its first strategic plan and board retreat. Nancy
Treichler is elected President of the Board and Grace Mayes continues to
inspire AIF efforts as President Emeritus. In 2003-2004, AIF sponsors
programs for 122 international visitors and 48 students from 65 different
countries.
2005
– Grace Mayes receives the Distinguished Lorinne Emery National Award for
Outstanding Service at the State Department Reception during NCIV’s
National Conference.
Michelle
Wilson and Grace Mayes are recognized by Mayor Donald L. Plusquellic,
Congressman Sherrod Brown, Congressman Tim Ryan and Congressman Ted
Strickland and the Akron Peace Council for the work they do through AIF
programs to build peaceful relations between the Akron Area and the World.
AIF hosts
the Northeast Ohio Summit on Citizen Diplomacy in November, attended by
over 250 local leaders representing over 70 local organizations. The
Honorable Harriet Fulbright was a keynote speaker for the event.
AIF
receives the National Council for International Visitors “Oscar Award” for
locally produced video on Citizen Diplomacy. Our video has been selected
by the Foreign Service Institute as a teaching tool for Americans and
Foreign Service Nationals to work at American embassies throughout the
world.
2007
– AIF receives the Ohio Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Governor’s Educational
Excellence Award for our multicultural educational outreach efforts.
