I am delighted to welcome you to this important event as you share the latest ideas, innovations, and trends in international education.  

Now more than ever, the American higher education system stands as one of the great examples of America’s special role in the world.  In the last 15 years we have doubled the number of international students studying in the United States.  And today these students come from every corner of the globe to study in every corner of this country. 

At the State Department, we see these exchanges as critical to our effort to expand global prosperity and strengthen our national security.  There is no substitute for living in the United States, learning English, and getting first-hand exposure to our institutions and traditions.  International students enrich our classrooms and our communities.  And they return home with friends and experiences that will shape the rest of their lives. 

This is why the State Department supports Education USA advising centers in more than 170 countries around the world.  Through these centers, we are able to reach millions of students every year – some who have never even considered studying in the United States.

Together, we can cement America’s standing as the global leader in higher education.  But we need your help to make our advising system more effective and to open more doors to international students.   I look forward to hearing about the concrete steps you come up with to expand opportunities for the young people of the world.  Thank you.