Letter from the Chairman of the Board

On behalf of the Board of Directors of CDS International, it is with great pleasure that I write in support of the endowed Scholarship Fund.  As businesses become increasingly international, it is imperative that the next generation of leaders be trained cross-culturally and appreciate the innumerable benefits of international exchange.  The CDS International Scholarship Fund is essential to facilitating work opportunities for American students and young professionals through stipends that help to cover the cost of transatlantic flights, living expenses, and language courses.

American businesses greatly benefit from former CDS program participants’ international skill set.  CDS alumni have an increased ability to support companies’ stake in international markets through their knowledge of global best business practices and intercultural competencies. Moreover, CDS alumni provide access to an international network of friends and business contacts that can build new partnerships between American and foreign companies.

For nearly 40 years, CDS International has provided American students and young professionals with the opportunity to gain meaningful, practical training in a foreign country. As proof of the importance of CDS’ programs for Americans, the Committee for Economic Development, a nonprofit group of business and academic leaders, found in 2006 that “U.S. businesses are concerned with developing the workforce that they need for the United States economy to retain its position as the global leader.  Foreign language skills, knowledge of other world regions and cultures, and overseas experience all contribute to creating the employee who has the cross-cultural competence needed by American businesses in the twenty-first century.”  Furthermore, when released in July 2004, the 9/11 Commission Report stated that “the United States should rebuild the scholarship, exchange and library programs that reach out to young people and offer them knowledge and hope.” The Commission strongly recommended increasing the support for scholarship and exchange programs, stating it was “our most powerful tool to shape attitudes over the course of a generation.” For this reason and to increase its support of Americans pursuing work opportunities abroad, CDS has set a goal of increasing the total money raised for the Scholarship Fund to $1 million by the end of 2008. The Board of Directors is strongly committed to the professional development of young Americans and has already contributed over $350,000 towards this effort. It is confident that others will also see the necessity in providing more opportunities for Americans to gain international experience.

As CDS celebrates its 40th anniversary, it strives to expand its support to American students and young professionals pursuing international training programs.  Please join us in our efforts and make a contribution to the Scholarship Fund today.  Your contribution will make a difference in the successful, international career development of young Americans who will serve as multipliers for global exchange for generations to come. We thank you for your support and dedication to this effort!

Karl Geercken
Chairman of the Board

Partner, Alston & Bird LLP