NAFSA 2026

Fulbright Canada Celebrates Milestone Anniversaries at NAFSA 2026

Fulbright Canada was proud to participate in the 2026 NAFSA Annual Conference in Orlando, where international education leaders gathered to share best practices, address pressing issues for higher education in the United States and beyond, strengthen partnerships and advance global academic exchange. Among those in attendance was Dr. Michael Hawes (UC Berkeley 2000), President and CEO of Fulbright Canada, who joined colleagues and partners from higher education and the global Fulbright network.

A highlight of the week was the Fulbright reception celebrating two significant milestones: the 250th anniversary of American independence (Freedom 250) and the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program. The event welcomed more than 400 guests, including 115 Fulbright alumni from the United States and around the world.

Attendees were honoured to hear keynote remarks from Victoria Roberts, Chief of Staff at the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). The evening also featured a live jazz performance by Grammy-nominated Fulbright alum Jamie Ousley, Fulbright Specialist to Costa Rica, and Michael Eckroth, Fulbright Scholar to Brazil. The musicians curated a special Fulbright 80th Anniversary Jazz Playlist showcasing works composed and performed by Fulbright alums.

The reception provided an opportunity to celebrate the enduring impact of the Fulbright Program while connecting with partners, alumni, and international education professionals committed to fostering mutual understanding through academic exchange.

The reception was an integral part of the year-long celebrations across Canada and around the world, honouring the program's success and the accomplishments of its alumni.