The Columbus Council on World Affairs aims to bring global awareness to the Columbus region and beyond. As the organization has grown over the years, “global awareness” has evolved into many forms, from our Global Scholars Diploma (GSD) which provides young high school students with experiential learning opportunities, to our Global Fluency Training (GFT) that offers adult professionals with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to work effectively in their diverse professional settings, among other programs.

We certainly understand that we can’t deliver on these goals uniquely on our own. It takes the support of many volunteers, corporations, community members, and so many others. This year, in particular, we are incredibly humbled by those who have stepped up to support our organization in new and generous ways.

First, and foremost, Greif has not only become one of our new mission partners, but they have stepped up in an incredibly substantial way, offering a $50,000 Challenge Grant to help us grow our GSD program. This opportunity could provide us with the chance to reach even more high school students and change the future of our world. Greif’s global footprint is immense, and we are honored to have them as a new supporter. Furthermore, we’re thrilled to have two additional companies step up, offering increased support to CCWA: Fahlgren Mortine and Chemical Abstract Services.

Beyond the important support provided by our corporate contributors, every semester we welcome two interns—the region’s most dynamic young professionals and globally passionate citizens—who provide critical support to our mission. They step up, give their time, their hard work, support our programs, suggest new operational efficiencies, and come with unrivaled enthusiasm. If you know someone who would like to be an intern, point them in this direction.

This year, thanks to Commercial Vehicle Group (CVG) stepping up, GSD students were able to gain hands-on experience and exposure to real-world work and professionals who are invested in their future. CVG President & CEO, Pat Miller said, “We were honored to host these impressive young students at our facility. Today’s students are the future leaders for our business and our community. We look forward to welcoming some of them back to CVG as interns or employees.” See the full press release here.

Furthermore, Honda of America continues to step up year after year, increasing their support and providing space for additional GSD global career events—see a short presentation of their work with our students.

Our world, our community, and CCWA need people like this to step up and commit to making our future brighter, one of understanding, incomparable compassion, and civility. Witnessing these leaders step up is humbling and inspiring and demonstrates the strength, support, and creativity of the human spirit.

Patrick Terrien
President & CEO