As the calendar turns to January, it’s time to reflect on the past year and look ahead to the opportunities and collaborations that await us in 2025.
For Fulbright Austria, 2024 was filled with achievements and milestones that exemplify our mission: fostering mutual understanding through educational and cultural exchange. We showcased the profound impact of international collaboration. Highlights included our SummerFest, symposia, and meet & greets, where alums and current program participants shared their transformative Fulbright Austria stories.
We also saw strong engagement in our programs. The past year welcomed a dynamic cohort of US students, scholars, and teaching assistants to Austria, while Austrian program participants excelled in their academic and cultural pursuits in the United States. Their successes are a testament to the enduring strength of the Fulbright mission and the commitment of our community.
As we step into 2025, I am thrilled to welcome two esteemed members to Fulbright Austria’s board: Ulrike Hartmann (Department for International Scientific Cooperation and Dialogue, Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs) and Christian Quendler (University of Innsbruck, Department of American Studies). Their expertise and dedication to international exchange will undoubtedly enrich our endeavors.
This year also promises continued growth and celebration. In January, it is time to walz the night away as the ball season starts. The 2025 TU Ball, made possible through the generous support of Fulbright Austria’s longtime friend Christine Schwarz, is a wonderful opportunity to dance in the Hofburg. Also mark your calendars for our sparking reception at the 2025 Vienna Ball of Sciences in the city hall of Vienna.
In February, we look forward to greeting our spring cohort of US Fulbright scholars. The winter meet & greet on the last day of their orientation will offer an opportunity to connect with, inspire, and empower them as they begin their Fulbright journeys.
Save the date for the upcoming 75th anniversary of the agreement that established Fulbright Austria and the start of a year full of connections. We hope that you will join us on 5 June 2025 at the Wien Museum, where we will celebrate our shared accomplishments.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to all our supporters, partners, and alums. Your contributions make Fulbright Austria a beacon of global connection. Together, let us embrace 2025 as a year of new discoveries, enduring friendships, and the pursuit of shared understanding.