I am pleased to announce that the International Center of Worcester (ICW) has become the 11th Affiliate of Seven Hills Foundation, effective January 1, 2015. This new partnership was initiated with the intent of growing our important practice of Citizen Diplomacy – fostering understanding, respect and mutually beneficial relationships across cultures.

The ICW has worked for 50 years to design professional and cultural programs for international visitors sponsored by local and foreign governmental and non-governmental agencies, private companies, universities, and individuals. Through the support of the College Of Professional and Continuing Education, the ICW had been hosted at Clark University for over 30 years.

Seven Hills is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, as exhibited by the 43 different countries represented by our current staff of 3,700. Seven Hills works to celebrate their gifts with the individuals we support, as well as with the communities we conduct business.  The ICW is a natural extension of our vision of strengthening our global community, while complementing the important work of our affiliate, Seven Hills Global Outreach, which fosters life-saving partnerships in eight emerging economies.  By affiliating with ICW, we will expand the practice of Citizen Diplomacy to embrace the strength of common humanity.

As part of Seven Hills, ICW will expand its participation as part of the nationwide network of centers for international visitors that are members of Global Ties U.S. in Washington, D.C. We will continue the partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program, as well as the partnership with USAID to conduct the Community Connections Program and The Open World Leadership Center at the Library of Congress, bringing current and emerging leaders to Central Massachusetts.

The ICW has long sought an avenue to further its organizational mission and innovate and enhance our long-standing programs and community participation.  With the retirement of Executive Director Royce Anderson, whose commitment to ICW has grown ICW’s impact and international reputation, we are confident in moving forward with the leadership of Seven Hills and our new ICW Director, Ashley Emerson Gilbert to broaden our reach. The ICW host families and local partners are excited about the affiliation with Seven Hills and the blending of resources that will help expand this important work.

ICW has been successfully hosting business and professional groups, providing visitors with professional hands-on experiences, home stays, and exposure to American life and culture. As part of Seven Hills, ICW will enhance its local presence and celebrate as we enter this 50th year of building a welcoming global community.

Dr. David A. Jordan
President/CEO
Seven Hills Foundation