Author: Fort Worth Sister Cities

Mayor’s International Dinner Global Award Winners Announced

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities to honor Ross Perot, Jr. at May 23 event

Mayor Betsy Price and Dinner Chairs Greg and Claudine Jackson will lead the annual Mayor’s International Dinner & Global Awards May 23, 2019 as Sister Cities honors individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to citizen diplomacy, global understanding, world political stability, and international commerce.

Ross Perot, Jr., real estate developer and businessman who is best known for his development of AllianceTexas and his circumnavigation of the world in a helicopter at the age of 23, will be honored with the Global Impact Award. This honor is given to individuals who have made significant efforts to promote Fort Worth globally and establish international partnerships.

Cook Children’s Health System will be awarded the Global Nexus Award recognizing businesses that are connected globally and are good representatives of Fort Worth to the world creating commerce and a healthier community for all.

LINKS, Inc.–Fort Worth Chapter will receive the Global Citizens Award which is given to organizations that are good representatives of Fort Worth to the world creating a positive view of the U.S. through educational, humanitarian, or cultural initiatives.

The dinner will be held May 23 at the Worthington Hotel to celebrate 34 years of service by Sister Cities to the City of Fort Worth. With a theme of A Night in Nîmes, the event will focus on Fort Worth’s ninth and newest sister city, Nîmes, France.

The dinner is made possible by the Members Circle of Giving which is comprised of individuals, businesses, and organizations who support the mission of Sister Cities. Funding and in-kind support from the City of Fort Worth plays a key role in its mission, but most work is made possible through public support through the Members Circle.

For more information on how to join the Members Circle, click here or call Katie Wharry at 817-632-7101 or katie@fwsistercities.org.

2019-03-07 01:45

Mayor’s International Dinner Global Award Winners Announced

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities to honor Ross Perot, Jr. at May 23 event

Mayor Betsy Price and Dinner Chairs Greg and Claudine Jackson will lead the annual Mayor’s International Dinner & Global Awards May 23, 2019 as Sister Cities honors individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to citizen diplomacy, global understanding, world political stability, and international commerce.

Ross Perot, Jr., real estate developer and businessman who is best known for his development of AllianceTexas and his circumnavigation of the world in a helicopter at the age of 23, will be honored with the Global Impact Award. This honor is given to individuals who have made significant efforts to promote Fort Worth globally and establish international partnerships.

Cook Children’s Health System will be awarded the Global Nexus Award recognizing businesses that are connected globally and are good representatives of Fort Worth to the world creating commerce and a healthier community for all.

LINKS, Inc.–Fort Worth Chapter will receive the Global Citizens Award which is given to organizations that are good representatives of Fort Worth to the world creating a positive view of the U.S. through educational, humanitarian, or cultural initiatives.

The dinner will be held May 23 at the Worthington Hotel to celebrate 34 years of service by Sister Cities to the City of Fort Worth. With a theme of A Night in Nîmes, the event will focus on Fort Worth’s ninth and newest sister city, Nîmes, France.

The dinner is made possible by the Members Circle of Giving which is comprised of individuals, businesses, and organizations who support the mission of Sister Cities. Funding and in-kind support from the City of Fort Worth plays a key role in its mission, but most work is made possible through public support through the Members Circle.

For more information on how to join the Members Circle, click here or call Katie Wharry at 817-632-7101 or katie@fwsistercities.org.

German Organist Returns to Fort Worth

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Free concert planned

A special performance by Martin Bambauer, concert organist and Director of Music at the Basilica of Constantine in Trier, Germany, Fort Worth’s sister city since 1987, is planned for Sunday, March 3, 7:00 p.m. at Broadway Baptist Church, 305 West Broadway, and is free and open to the public.

The concert is the result of a collaboration between Fort Worth Sister Cities International, The Fort Worth Chapter of American Guild of Organists and Fort Worth Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity for Women.

Fort Worth Sister Cities stages international events and programs to bring the world to Fort Worth and enrich the community. This will be Bambauer’s second concert in Fort Worth, having performed in 2011. “We are thrilled to be welcoming Mr. Bambauer back to Fort Worth and are excited to showcase his talents to the public,” said Shanna Cate, the Trier, Germany Committee Chair.

The concert will be held in memory of Trier Committee member and past chair, Jean Frick, who passed away in August. Jean was an active citizen diplomat, representing Fort Worth in several sister cities and took an active role during her tenure as a member of the board of directors.

Martin Bambauer studied protestant church music at the Robert Schumann University of Music and Media in Düsseldorf and Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts. Since 1999, he has worked full-time as organist and choirmaster at the Basilica of Constantine. From 2001 to 2008 he taught organ improvisation at the Cologne University of Music. Bambauer has visited many European countries and the USA as guest organist and conductor and has made several recordings.

For more information contact Beth Weibel at 817-632-7105 or click here.

2019-03-01 10:48

German Organist Returns to Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX – Free concert planned

A special performance by Martin Bambauer, concert organist and Director of Music at the Basilica of Constantine in Trier, Germany, Fort Worth’s sister city since 1987, is planned for Sunday, March 3, 7:00 p.m. at Broadway Baptist Church, 305 West Broadway, and is free and open to the public.

The concert is the result of a collaboration between Fort Worth Sister Cities International, The Fort Worth Chapter of American Guild of Organists and Fort Worth Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity for Women.

Fort Worth Sister Cities stages international events and programs to bring the world to Fort Worth and enrich the community. This will be Bambauer’s second concert in Fort Worth, having performed in 2011. “We are thrilled to be welcoming Mr. Bambauer back to Fort Worth and are excited to showcase his talents to the public,” said Shanna Cate, the Trier, Germany Committee Chair.

The concert will be held in memory of Trier Committee member and past chair, Jean Frick, who passed away in August. Jean was an active citizen diplomat, representing Fort Worth in several sister cities and took an active role during her tenure as a member of the board of directors.

Martin Bambauer studied protestant church music at the Robert Schumann University of Music and Media in Düsseldorf and Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts. Since 1999, he has worked full-time as organist and choirmaster at the Basilica of Constantine. From 2001 to 2008 he taught organ improvisation at the Cologne University of Music. Bambauer has visited many European countries and the USA as guest organist and conductor and has made several recordings.

For more information contact Beth Weibel at 817-632-7105 or click here.

Students to Represent Fort Worth Around the World

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Student Ambassadors Given Oath at City Council Meeting

Nearly 100 Fort Worth students attended the Fort Worth City Council meeting on March 5 where Mayor Betsy Price administered the Citizen Diplomat Oath to the students and their Delegation Leaders in preparation for upcoming youth exchanges to four of Fort Worth’s nine sister cities.

The students and leaders are visiting Budapest, Hungary; Reggio Emilia, Italy; Toluca, Mexico; and Trier, Germany later this March. Delegations are led by educators from the FWISD, private schools, and universities. More students will depart for exchanges to Nagaoka, Japan and Bandung, Indonesia later in the summer.

Students complete a vigorous selection process including personal interviews and are selected to represent the City of Fort Worth as Youth Ambassadors each year by Sister Cities. Applications are available for all students, as well as funding to support many.

Through these experiences, students benefit from a global education, as well as learn valuable leadership skills. Their understanding and respect of other cultures also increases which enhances their college and career opportunities.

“Our goal this year is to strategically grow our youth programs. It is important now more than ever to equip our future leaders with tools that will enable them to thrive in a global community,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the Board of Sister Cities.

When the students return to their local campuses, they share the lessons learned while abroad with others, helping make Fort Worth more globally fluent.

A complete list of Youth Ambassadors and Delegation Leaders can be found here.

2019-02-21 02:50

Students to Represent Fort Worth Around the World

Fort Worth, TX – Student Ambassadors Given Oath at City Council Meeting

Nearly 100 Fort Worth students attended the Fort Worth City Council meeting on March 5 where Mayor Betsy Price administered the Citizen Diplomat Oath to the students and their Delegation Leaders in preparation for upcoming youth exchanges to four of Fort Worth’s nine sister cities.

The students and leaders are visiting Budapest, Hungary; Reggio Emilia, Italy; Toluca, Mexico; and Trier, Germany later this March. Delegations are led by educators from the FWISD, private schools, and universities. More students will depart for exchanges to Nagaoka, Japan and Bandung, Indonesia later in the summer.

Students complete a vigorous selection process including personal interviews and are selected to represent the City of Fort Worth as Youth Ambassadors each year by Sister Cities. Applications are available for all students, as well as funding to support many.

Through these experiences, students benefit from a global education, as well as learn valuable leadership skills. Their understanding and respect of other cultures also increases which enhances their college and career opportunities.

“Our goal this year is to strategically grow our youth programs. It is important now more than ever to equip our future leaders with tools that will enable them to thrive in a global community,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the Board of Sister Cities.

When the students return to their local campuses, they share the lessons learned while abroad with others, helping make Fort Worth more globally fluent.

A complete list of Youth Ambassadors and Delegation Leaders can be found here.

Nîmes, France is Now Fort Worth’s Ninth Sister City

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Municipal agreements signed finalizing process

Yesterday, Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier of Nîmes, (pronounced NEEM) France and Councilwoman Ann Zadeh, stepping in for Mayor Price, formally signed municipal agreements to become sister cities at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

The signing ceremony last night was complete with a Presentation of the Colors by the Fort Worth Police Dept. Honor Guard and singing of the French and American National Anthems by the Texas Girls’ Choir. While the ceremony was open and free to the public, a private reception took place afterwards at Café Modern.

Mayor Fournier, along with an official delegation arrived in Fort Worth on Tuesday and have been busy touring the best Fort Worth has to offer, including a visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards, the Kimbell Art Museum, the Bureau of Engraving and Alcon due to an interest of Nîmes to develop business relations in the eye care industry.

This partnership came to fruition as the result of a three-year process which started with a visit to Nîmes by a Fort Worth search team in 2017. The newly-minted relationship has already proven fruitful, as a youth delegation of 21 high school students from Nîmes will arrive in Fort Worth Friday for a ten-day educational exchange hosted by the FWISD World Languages Institute and Fort Worth Country Day School.

Mayor Price will lead a delegation to Nîmes Sept. 25 – Oct. 4, 2019 to sign the reciprocal agreement there. To join the group on this official visit, contact beth@fwsistercities.org.

Nîmes is now the ninth Sister City of Fort Worth.

2019-02-15 11:28

Nîmes, France is Now Fort Worth’s Ninth Sister City

Fort Worth, TX – Municipal agreements signed finalizing process

Yesterday, Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier of Nîmes, (pronounced NEEM) France and Councilwoman Ann Zadeh, stepping in for Mayor Price, formally signed municipal agreements to become sister cities at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

The signing ceremony last night was complete with a Presentation of the Colors by the Fort Worth Police Dept. Honor Guard and singing of the French and American National Anthems by the Texas Girls’ Choir. While the ceremony was open and free to the public, a private reception took place afterwards at Café Modern.

Mayor Fournier, along with an official delegation arrived in Fort Worth on Tuesday and have been busy touring the best Fort Worth has to offer, including a visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards, the Kimbell Art Museum, the Bureau of Engraving and Alcon due to an interest of Nîmes to develop business relations in the eye care industry.

This partnership came to fruition as the result of a three-year process which started with a visit to Nîmes by a Fort Worth search team in 2017. The newly-minted relationship has already proven fruitful, as a youth delegation of 21 high school students from Nîmes will arrive in Fort Worth Friday for a ten-day educational exchange hosted by the FWISD World Languages Institute and Fort Worth Country Day School.

Mayor Price will lead a delegation to Nîmes Sept. 25 – Oct. 4, 2019 to sign the reciprocal agreement there. To join the group on this official visit, contact beth@fwsistercities.org.

Nîmes is now the ninth Sister City of Fort Worth.

Fort Worth Adding Sister City in France

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX – Mayor Price to sign official agreement in February

Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier, of Nîmes (pronounced NEEM), France, and delegation will travel to Fort Worth Feb. 12-17 to sign the official document to become Fort Worth’s ninth sister city. The official signing will take place between Mayor Price and Fournier at a ceremony on Feb. 13 at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth at 6:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

“Fort Worth is excited to formally welcome Nîmes as our ninth sister city. We look forward to fostering business relationships and expanding cultural exchange opportunities through this partnership,” said Mayor Betsy Price.

Mayor Price will lead a delegation to Nîmes Sept. 25 – Oct. 4 to sign the reciprocal agreement there. To join the group on this official visit, contact beth@fwsistercities.org.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International launched a long-range plan to select new sister cities in countries where they can build mutually beneficial relationships through education, exchanges and commerce. In 2017, Sister Cities sent a delegation to explore the potential partnership with Nîmes, France. A delegation reciprocated with a visit in 2018 to Fort Worth and quickly moved to make the partnership official.

“We are already making plans to welcome our new French friends and share our finest Texas culture,” said Chairwoman of the Board, Veronica Chavez Law. “Future exchanges may focus on education, economic relations, and arts and culture to create understanding and respect of each other’s cultures.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the signing ceremony between Fort Worth and Nîmes can visit https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/official-nimes-signing/.

2019-02-08 06:21

Fort Worth Adding Sister City in France

FORT WORTH, TX – Mayor Price to sign official agreement in February

Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier, of Nîmes (pronounced NEEM), France, and delegation will travel to Fort Worth Feb. 12-17 to sign the official document to become Fort Worth’s ninth sister city. The official signing will take place between Mayor Price and Fournier at a ceremony on Feb. 13 at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth at 6:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

“Fort Worth is excited to formally welcome Nîmes as our ninth sister city. We look forward to fostering business relationships and expanding cultural exchange opportunities through this partnership,” said Mayor Betsy Price.

Mayor Price will lead a delegation to Nîmes Sept. 25 – Oct. 4 to sign the reciprocal agreement there. To join the group on this official visit, contact beth@fwsistercities.org.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International launched a long-range plan to select new sister cities in countries where they can build mutually beneficial relationships through education, exchanges and commerce. In 2017, Sister Cities sent a delegation to explore the potential partnership with Nîmes, France. A delegation reciprocated with a visit in 2018 to Fort Worth and quickly moved to make the partnership official.

“We are already making plans to welcome our new French friends and share our finest Texas culture,” said Chairwoman of the Board, Veronica Chavez Law. “Future exchanges may focus on education, economic relations, and arts and culture to create understanding and respect of each other’s cultures.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the signing ceremony between Fort Worth and Nîmes can visit https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/official-nimes-signing/.

Fort Worth Welcomes French Students

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX— Sister Cities Partners with Local Schools

Fort Worth welcomes students from its newest sister city, Nîmes, France, this week for the first youth ambassador exchange to Fort Worth. 

Three teachers and 21 students from Nîmes (pronounced NEEM) will be hosted by the World Languages Institute and Fort Worth Country Day School Feb. 15-25. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers giving them a true Texas experience, as well as providing a glimpse of life in America. The students will also attend school and visit cultural sites of interest while in Fort Worth.

“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and private schools to give students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the Board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach young people the importance of global understanding and respect of other cultures whether here in Fort Worth or abroad.”

The students’ visit overlaps with a visit by Nîmes Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier and delegation who are here to sign the official documents joining Fort Worth and Nîmes as sister cities. The signing ceremony will take place on Feb. 13 at 6:00 pm at the Modern Art Museum and is free and open to the public. Mayors Betsy Price and Fournier will participate in this auspicious occasion. For more information about the Nîmes and Fort Worth signing ceremony go to https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/official-nimes-signing/.

A special reception for the students, as well as Mayor Fournier and the French delegation, will be held at Fort Worth Country Day School on Feb. 16 with special performances by the French and Fort Worth students.

If you know a student who wants to travel to one of Fort Worth’s sister cities in 2020, contact Beth Weibel at beth@fwsistercities.org or visit our website at https://www.fwsistercities.org/what-we-do/youth-exchanges/.

2019-01-25 09:55

Fort Worth Welcomes French Students

FORT WORTH, TX— Sister Cities Partners with Local Schools

Fort Worth welcomes students from its newest sister city, Nîmes, France, this week for the first youth ambassador exchange to Fort Worth. 

Three teachers and 21 students from Nîmes (pronounced NEEM) will be hosted by the World Languages Institute and Fort Worth Country Day School Feb. 15-25. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers giving them a true Texas experience, as well as providing a glimpse of life in America. The students will also attend school and visit cultural sites of interest while in Fort Worth.

“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and private schools to give students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the Board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach young people the importance of global understanding and respect of other cultures whether here in Fort Worth or abroad.”

The students’ visit overlaps with a visit by Nîmes Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier and delegation who are here to sign the official documents joining Fort Worth and Nîmes as sister cities. The signing ceremony will take place on Feb. 13 at 6:00 pm at the Modern Art Museum and is free and open to the public. Mayors Betsy Price and Fournier will participate in this auspicious occasion. For more information about the Nîmes and Fort Worth signing ceremony go to https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/official-nimes-signing/.

A special reception for the students, as well as Mayor Fournier and the French delegation, will be held at Fort Worth Country Day School on Feb. 16 with special performances by the French and Fort Worth students.

If you know a student who wants to travel to one of Fort Worth’s sister cities in 2020, contact Beth Weibel at beth@fwsistercities.org or visit our website at https://www.fwsistercities.org/what-we-do/youth-exchanges/.

Mark Nurdin Chairing Global Effort

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS THRIVE IN FORT WORTH

Fort Worth, Texas – Mark Nurdin Announced as Chair of Sister Cities Campaign

Mark Nurdin, President, Bank of Texas, and 2019 Members Circle of Giving Campaign Chair for Sister Cities, announced to the public today that $203,375 of the $325,000 campaign goal has already been raised for 2019. 

This early support comes from the 100% participation of the Fort Worth Sister Cities board of directors and staff; Visit Fort Worth, Rae and Michael Hyatt, and Texas Health Resources as Premier members; BNSF Railway Company, the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson as Global members; Bank of Texas, BBVA Compass, Cook Children’s Health Care System, Hillwood, Hilde and Helmut Horchler and Mary Palko as Presidential members; and many others.

Lead donors to this year’s campaign will be recognized at a private reception in February celebrating the new partnership between Fort Worth and Nîmes, France and at the Mayor’s International Dinner and Global Awards on May 23. 

“This is an exciting year for Sister Cities,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Board Chairwoman. “Not only were we recently named as having the best sister city’s program in the nation, but Fort Worth will expand its global connections by signing its ninth sister city, Nîmes, France, on Feb. 13. We are working to strengthen and create even more relationships for Fort Worth and grow the opportunities for youth and adults alike.”

Funding and in-kind support from the City of Fort Worth (4% of Sister Cities’ budget) play a key role in the mission, but most work is made possible through public support like that received through the Members Circle of Giving. To join the Members Circle of Giving, click here.

2019-01-23 02:36

Mark Nurdin Chairing Global Effort

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS THRIVE IN FORT WORTH

Fort Worth, Texas – Mark Nurdin Announced as Chair of Sister Cities Campaign

Mark Nurdin, President, Bank of Texas, and 2019 Members Circle of Giving Campaign Chair for Sister Cities, announced to the public today that $203,375 of the $325,000 campaign goal has already been raised for 2019. 

This early support comes from the 100% participation of the Fort Worth Sister Cities board of directors and staff; Visit Fort Worth, Rae and Michael Hyatt, and Texas Health Resources as Premier members; BNSF Railway Company, the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson as Global members; Bank of Texas, BBVA Compass, Cook Children’s Health Care System, Hillwood, Hilde and Helmut Horchler and Mary Palko as Presidential members; and many others.

Lead donors to this year’s campaign will be recognized at a private reception in February celebrating the new partnership between Fort Worth and Nîmes, France and at the Mayor’s International Dinner and Global Awards on May 23. 

“This is an exciting year for Sister Cities,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Board Chairwoman. “Not only were we recently named as having the best sister city’s program in the nation, but Fort Worth will expand its global connections by signing its ninth sister city, Nîmes, France, on Feb. 13. We are working to strengthen and create even more relationships for Fort Worth and grow the opportunities for youth and adults alike.”

Funding and in-kind support from the City of Fort Worth (4% of Sister Cities’ budget) play a key role in the mission, but most work is made possible through public support like that received through the Members Circle of Giving. To join the Members Circle of Giving, click here.

Youth Ambassadors Selected for 2019 Exchanges

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Congratulations to all the students who were selected for Youth Ambassador exchanges in 2019! Students go through a rigorous application and interview process before being selected for travel to one of our sister cities. After selection, students attend cultural orientations to prepare for travel abroad and to get to know the culture of their destination.

A special congratulation to Melany Rodriguez who received the Yamagata Emerging Leader Scholarship for her excellence in community service and leadership. Rodriguez will be using her scholarship to travel to Nagaoka, Japan and attend the International Leadership Academy.

Youth in Indonesia

Bandung, Indonesia – June 17-28, 2019

  • Trinity Crockett, World Languages Institute
  • Alicia Flores, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Victoria Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Randito Howard, Paschal High School
  • Jorge Munoz-Alvarez, World Languages Institute
  • Nyasha Muwalo, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute

Delegation Leader

  • Tracey Cravens, North Side High School

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Vanessa Garcia, University of Texas at Arlington

Budapest, Hungary – March 9-17, 2019

  • Emily Carrillo, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School
  • Danna Gaytan, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School
  • Ashley Helms, Westlake Academy
  • Nicole Helms, Westlake Academy
  • Alexis Jiang, Westlake Academy
  • Nyasha Muwalo, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Zoe Nichols-Payne, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Benjamin Orr, Anderson Private School
  • Emily Pruitt, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Gabriela Urbina, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Sarah Villagran, Paschal High School

Delegations Leader

  • Dawnelle Butler, Westlake Academy

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Ben Cristol, L.K. Hall Elementary School
Running lap in Japan

Nagaoka, Japan – June 19-28, 2019

  • Lizett Espinoza, Western Hills High School
  • Hayden Flowers, Westlake Academy
  • Imani Golightly, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Shania Grant, World Languages Institute
  • Asheria Hart, Cedar Hill Collegiate
  • Alana Hawkins, Cedar Hill Collegiate
  • Dakira Hill, Boswell High School
  • Kassandra Loera, World Languages Institute
  • Jennifer Lozoya, World Languages Institute
  • Kate Malonis, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Kaylee McCurley, Aledo High School
  • Samantha Ramirez, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Kimberly Ruvalcaba, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Kiyanna Smith-Wright, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Mario Terrell II, Young Men’s Leadership Academy

Delegations Leaders

  • Joe Ayala, Western Hills High School
  • Dr. Staussa Ervin, Tarrant County College

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Bob Chao

Nagaoka, Japan Harashin Scholars – July 25-Aug. 4

  • DJ Carter, Arlington Heights High School
  • Erik Cura, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Erin Fishman, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Lilian Hicks, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Will Lourcey, Paschal High School
  • Saleem Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Kyra Rhoades, Timber Creek High School
  • Bayan Williams, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences

Alternates

  • Karen Ayala, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Cameron Garcia, Arlington Heights High School

Delegations Leaders

  • Andréanne Annis, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Angelia Ross, International Newcomers Academy

Reggio Emilia, Italy – March 9-17, 2019

  • Crystal Aguero, Western Hills High School
  • Nosaghare Aiguobasimwin, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Jameson Bauer, Westlake Academy
  • Janie Bradford, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Jude Butler, Westlake Academy
  • Karina Cedillo, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Elisa Duran, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Alicia Flores, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Gabriela Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Rafael Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Victoria Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Niina Havia, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Morgan McCullough, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Emme Nelson, Arlington Heights High School
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute
  • Skyler Porter, Paschal High School
  • Saleem Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Umaya Suliman, Paschal High School

Delegations Leaders

  • James Gleaton, Tarrant County College
  • Courtney Smith, Como Montessori School

Toluca, Mexico – March 9-17, 2019

  • Gwendolen Bruce, Southwest High School
  • John Nolan, Paschal High School
  • Felicia Pang, Fort Worth Country Day

Delegation Leaders

  • Marvin Vann Griffith, World Language Institute
  • Cindy Vasquez, City of Fort Worth

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Sam Whiting, George Washington University

Adult Educator Ambassador

  • Alexandria Rodriguez, West Handley Elementary School

Trier, Germany – March 9-17, 2019

  • Alma Briones, North Side High School
  • Rebecca Cichock, Arlington High School
  • Hillary Fillmore, Southwest Christian School
  • Will Hartgraves, Paschal High School
  • Emma Lampka, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Bronwyn Logan, Crowley High School
  • Peren Lopez, Trinity Valley School
  • Katelyn Parham, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Alex Patton, Carroll High School
  • Lauryn Roberts, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Kate Robinson, All Saints Episcopal
  • Jayden Struve, Juan Seguin High School

Delegation Leaders

  • Rob Napier, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Erika Zimmerman, Tarrant County College

Advanced International Leadership Academy in Nagaoka, Japan – Aug. 1-11

  • Savanah Antwine, Texas Online Public School
  • Gabriela Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Gianna Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Kate Robinson, All Saints Episcopal
  • Melany Rodriguez, World Languages Institute
  • Alexander Roemer, Trinity Valley School
  • William Russell, Paschal High School
  • Irene Strzhemechny, Harmony School of Innovation
  • Mercedes Swinney, The Oakridge School
  • Kimberly Wang, Westlake Academy

Delegation Leaders

  • Jay Kurima, Texas Academy of Biomedical Science
  • Nancy Marchant
  • Nelcy Cardenas, Fort Worth ISD
  • Carlo Capua, Z’s Cafe

Guiyang, China – June 5-15, 2020

  • Jose Garcia, Richland High School
  • Kassandra Loera, World Languages Institute
  • Amy Moreno, North Side High School
  • Jorge Munoz-Alvarez, World Languages Institute
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute
  • Anaiah Wiley, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Mark Wong, Fort Worth Country Day

Delegation Leaders

  • Paul Blankenship, Eastern Hills High School
  • Kimberly Tezak-Daus, Diamond Hill- Jarvis High School

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Vanessa Garcia, University of Texas at Arlington

2018-11-28 12:46

Youth Ambassadors Selected for 2019 Exchanges

Congratulations to all the students who were selected for Youth Ambassador exchanges in 2019! Students go through a rigorous application and interview process before being selected for travel to one of our sister cities. After selection, students attend cultural orientations to prepare for travel abroad and to get to know the culture of their destination.

A special congratulation to Melany Rodriguez who received the Yamagata Emerging Leader Scholarship for her excellence in community service and leadership. Rodriguez will be using her scholarship to travel to Nagaoka, Japan and attend the International Leadership Academy.

Youth in Indonesia

Bandung, Indonesia – June 17-28, 2019

  • Trinity Crockett, World Languages Institute
  • Alicia Flores, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Victoria Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Randito Howard, Paschal High School
  • Jorge Munoz-Alvarez, World Languages Institute
  • Nyasha Muwalo, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute

Delegation Leader

  • Tracey Cravens, North Side High School

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Vanessa Garcia, University of Texas at Arlington

Budapest, Hungary – March 9-17, 2019

  • Emily Carrillo, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School
  • Danna Gaytan, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School
  • Ashley Helms, Westlake Academy
  • Nicole Helms, Westlake Academy
  • Alexis Jiang, Westlake Academy
  • Nyasha Muwalo, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Zoe Nichols-Payne, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Benjamin Orr, Anderson Private School
  • Emily Pruitt, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Gabriela Urbina, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Sarah Villagran, Paschal High School

Delegations Leader

  • Dawnelle Butler, Westlake Academy

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Ben Cristol, L.K. Hall Elementary School
Running lap in Japan

Nagaoka, Japan – June 19-28, 2019

  • Lizett Espinoza, Western Hills High School
  • Hayden Flowers, Westlake Academy
  • Imani Golightly, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Shania Grant, World Languages Institute
  • Asheria Hart, Cedar Hill Collegiate
  • Alana Hawkins, Cedar Hill Collegiate
  • Dakira Hill, Boswell High School
  • Kassandra Loera, World Languages Institute
  • Jennifer Lozoya, World Languages Institute
  • Kate Malonis, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Kaylee McCurley, Aledo High School
  • Samantha Ramirez, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Kimberly Ruvalcaba, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Kiyanna Smith-Wright, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Mario Terrell II, Young Men’s Leadership Academy

Delegations Leaders

  • Joe Ayala, Western Hills High School
  • Dr. Staussa Ervin, Tarrant County College

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Bob Chao

Nagaoka, Japan Harashin Scholars – July 25-Aug. 4

  • DJ Carter, Arlington Heights High School
  • Erik Cura, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Erin Fishman, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Lilian Hicks, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Will Lourcey, Paschal High School
  • Saleem Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Kyra Rhoades, Timber Creek High School
  • Bayan Williams, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences

Alternates

  • Karen Ayala, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Cameron Garcia, Arlington Heights High School

Delegations Leaders

  • Andréanne Annis, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Angelia Ross, International Newcomers Academy

Reggio Emilia, Italy – March 9-17, 2019

  • Crystal Aguero, Western Hills High School
  • Nosaghare Aiguobasimwin, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Jameson Bauer, Westlake Academy
  • Janie Bradford, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Jude Butler, Westlake Academy
  • Karina Cedillo, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Elisa Duran, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Alicia Flores, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Gabriela Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Rafael Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Victoria Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Niina Havia, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Morgan McCullough, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Emme Nelson, Arlington Heights High School
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute
  • Skyler Porter, Paschal High School
  • Saleem Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Umaya Suliman, Paschal High School

Delegations Leaders

  • James Gleaton, Tarrant County College
  • Courtney Smith, Como Montessori School

Toluca, Mexico – March 9-17, 2019

  • Gwendolen Bruce, Southwest High School
  • John Nolan, Paschal High School
  • Felicia Pang, Fort Worth Country Day

Delegation Leaders

  • Marvin Vann Griffith, World Language Institute
  • Cindy Vasquez, City of Fort Worth

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Sam Whiting, George Washington University

Adult Educator Ambassador

  • Alexandria Rodriguez, West Handley Elementary School

Trier, Germany – March 9-17, 2019

  • Alma Briones, North Side High School
  • Rebecca Cichock, Arlington High School
  • Hillary Fillmore, Southwest Christian School
  • Will Hartgraves, Paschal High School
  • Emma Lampka, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Bronwyn Logan, Crowley High School
  • Peren Lopez, Trinity Valley School
  • Katelyn Parham, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Alex Patton, Carroll High School
  • Lauryn Roberts, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Kate Robinson, All Saints Episcopal
  • Jayden Struve, Juan Seguin High School

Delegation Leaders

  • Rob Napier, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Erika Zimmerman, Tarrant County College

Advanced International Leadership Academy in Nagaoka, Japan – Aug. 1-11

  • Savanah Antwine, Texas Online Public School
  • Gabriela Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Gianna Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Kate Robinson, All Saints Episcopal
  • Melany Rodriguez, World Languages Institute
  • Alexander Roemer, Trinity Valley School
  • William Russell, Paschal High School
  • Irene Strzhemechny, Harmony School of Innovation
  • Mercedes Swinney, The Oakridge School
  • Kimberly Wang, Westlake Academy

Delegation Leaders

  • Jay Kurima, Texas Academy of Biomedical Science
  • Nancy Marchant
  • Nelcy Cardenas, Fort Worth ISD
  • Carlo Capua, Z’s Cafe

Guiyang, China – June 5-15, 2020

  • Jose Garcia, Richland High School
  • Kassandra Loera, World Languages Institute
  • Amy Moreno, North Side High School
  • Jorge Munoz-Alvarez, World Languages Institute
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute
  • Anaiah Wiley, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Mark Wong, Fort Worth Country Day

Delegation Leaders

  • Paul Blankenship, Eastern Hills High School
  • Kimberly Tezak-Daus, Diamond Hill- Jarvis High School

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Vanessa Garcia, University of Texas at Arlington

Fort Worth Welcomes International Students

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX— Sister Cities Partners with Four Local Schools

Fort Worth welcomes students from sister cities, Trier, Germany and Nagaoka, Japan, this October for youth ambassador exchanges.

18 students from Trier will be hosted by Trinity Valley School and Fort Worth Country Day School Oct. 7-21.. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers and have the opportunity to visit the Museum of Science & History, Museum of Modern Art, the Stockyards and many other Fort Worth favorites.

36 middle school students from Nagaoka, Japan will participate in a middle school exchange, partnering with Fort Worth Country Day School, World Languages Institute, and Young Women’s Leadership Academy. Students and teachers will be visiting Oct. 13-21.

The Japanese students will attend classes, participate in cultural activities and live with Fort Worth families from the participating schools while in Fort Worth gaining an even better understanding of Fort Worth and the U.S.A.

“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and local private schools to give Fort Worth students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach our young people the importance of global understanding.”

If you’re interested in getting involved and home hosting, please contact Beth Weibel, at beth@fwsistercities.org.

2018-09-28 02:09

Fort Worth Welcomes International Students

FORT WORTH, TX— Sister Cities Partners with Four Local Schools

Fort Worth welcomes students from sister cities, Trier, Germany and Nagaoka, Japan, this October for youth ambassador exchanges.

18 students from Trier will be hosted by Trinity Valley School and Fort Worth Country Day School Oct. 7-21.. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers and have the opportunity to visit the Museum of Science & History, Museum of Modern Art, the Stockyards and many other Fort Worth favorites.

36 middle school students from Nagaoka, Japan will participate in a middle school exchange, partnering with Fort Worth Country Day School, World Languages Institute, and Young Women’s Leadership Academy. Students and teachers will be visiting Oct. 13-21.

The Japanese students will attend classes, participate in cultural activities and live with Fort Worth families from the participating schools while in Fort Worth gaining an even better understanding of Fort Worth and the U.S.A.

“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and local private schools to give Fort Worth students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach our young people the importance of global understanding.”

If you’re interested in getting involved and home hosting, please contact Beth Weibel, at beth@fwsistercities.org.

Fort Worth Elects Global Leaders

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Brackett & Ellis’ Veronica Chavez Law Takes the Reins

Newly elected officers at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 33rd Annual Meeting, are Chairwoman, Veronica Chavez Law, Brackett & Ellis; Chair Elect, Becky Renfro Borbolla, Renfro Foods; Past/Nominating Chair, Johnny Campbell, Sundance Square; Treasurer, Frank Tilley, SeatonHill; Secretary, Casey Dyer Oliver, Texas A&M; Development Chair, Rich Lowe, Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP; Long Range Planning Chair, Pat Miller, Texas Christian University; Exchanges and Outreach Chair, Dr. Sheryl Harris, Tarrant County College; and Marketing Chair, Lydia Rickard, LCOMM Marketing.

New board members include: Jason Brown, Doss, Knight & Associates; Florence Bruner, Firehouse Auto Sales; David Campbell, Huitt-Zollars; Shanna Cate; Trinity River Vision Authority; Jeff Dyer, Crescent Realty; Cindy Johnson; Rachel Malone, Merrill Lynch; Bonnie Melhart, Texas Christian University; Steve Peglar, WhitleySmith Company; and Andy Roseliep, BB&T.

The Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership was awarded to Dr. Michael Roemer. The Rotary Club of Fort Worth was awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement and Matt Graves received the prestigious Volunteer of the Year award.

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, Chairman of the national office of Sister Cities International in Washington, D.C., spoke to the Members Circle about the importance of sister city relationships. “As mayor, I believe that the most important infrastructure any city can invest in is its relationships with other people, cultures, and cities. By building bridges for peace and creating cities of opportunity, we can thrive in a 21st global economy,” said Nirenberg. “These connections not only add cultural value, but have unlimited economic potential.”

Board members returning for a 2nd term include: Michael Crain, Dr. Paul Geisel, Dr. Michael Jacobsson and Walter Stucker. City chairs to serve a two-year term are: Bonnie Melhart, Bandung, Indonesia; Jason Brown, Budapest, Hungary; Robert Fitzgerald, Guiyang, China; Nommo Donald,  Mbabane, eSwatini; Libby Watson, Nagaoka, Japan; Rachel Malone, Nîmes, France; Dr. Michael Jacobsson, Reggio Emilia, Italy; Florence Bruner, Toluca, Mexico; and Shanna Cate, Trier, Germany.

Click here to see photos from the event.

2018-09-28 02:03

Fort Worth Elects Global Leaders

Fort Worth, TX – Brackett & Ellis’ Veronica Chavez Law Takes the Reins

Newly elected officers at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 33rd Annual Meeting, are Chairwoman, Veronica Chavez Law, Brackett & Ellis; Chair Elect, Becky Renfro Borbolla, Renfro Foods; Past/Nominating Chair, Johnny Campbell, Sundance Square; Treasurer, Frank Tilley, SeatonHill; Secretary, Casey Dyer Oliver, Texas A&M; Development Chair, Rich Lowe, Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP; Long Range Planning Chair, Pat Miller, Texas Christian University; Exchanges and Outreach Chair, Dr. Sheryl Harris, Tarrant County College; and Marketing Chair, Lydia Rickard, LCOMM Marketing.

New board members include: Jason Brown, Doss, Knight & Associates; Florence Bruner, Firehouse Auto Sales; David Campbell, Huitt-Zollars; Shanna Cate; Trinity River Vision Authority; Jeff Dyer, Crescent Realty; Cindy Johnson; Rachel Malone, Merrill Lynch; Bonnie Melhart, Texas Christian University; Steve Peglar, WhitleySmith Company; and Andy Roseliep, BB&T.

The Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership was awarded to Dr. Michael Roemer. The Rotary Club of Fort Worth was awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement and Matt Graves received the prestigious Volunteer of the Year award.

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, Chairman of the national office of Sister Cities International in Washington, D.C., spoke to the Members Circle about the importance of sister city relationships. “As mayor, I believe that the most important infrastructure any city can invest in is its relationships with other people, cultures, and cities. By building bridges for peace and creating cities of opportunity, we can thrive in a 21st global economy,” said Nirenberg. “These connections not only add cultural value, but have unlimited economic potential.”

Board members returning for a 2nd term include: Michael Crain, Dr. Paul Geisel, Dr. Michael Jacobsson and Walter Stucker. City chairs to serve a two-year term are: Bonnie Melhart, Bandung, Indonesia; Jason Brown, Budapest, Hungary; Robert Fitzgerald, Guiyang, China; Nommo Donald,  Mbabane, eSwatini; Libby Watson, Nagaoka, Japan; Rachel Malone, Nîmes, France; Dr. Michael Jacobsson, Reggio Emilia, Italy; Florence Bruner, Toluca, Mexico; and Shanna Cate, Trier, Germany.

Click here to see photos from the event.