World Learning’s Baylee Easterday honored for excellence in programming
World Learning Program Officer Baylee Easterday recently received the Network Honors for Excellence in Programming award at the 2025 national meeting of Global Ties U.S.
A committee of Global Ties’ network peers selected Easterday for the award in recognition of her work designing and implementing programming for the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). The IVLP brings current and emerging global leaders to the United States for short-term professional exchanges with their American counterparts. Easterday develops content themes and shapes itineraries for projects that support U.S. foreign policy priorities.
“Her colleagues across the network…recognize Baylee for her innovative programming, thoughtful leadership, and dedication to building transformative experiences for program participants and the U.S. communities that host them.”
“In just three years, Baylee has left an undeniable mark on the IVLP network. Her dedication to creating transformative experiences isn’t just impressive, it’s redefining what’s possible,” said Karen Baumgaertner, professional exchanges manager at Global Ties Minnesota and a member of the award selection committee.
Baumgaertner also noted that Easterday has organized professional working groups and mentors colleagues on universal design. “Simply put, Baylee doesn’t just represent IVLP’s values, she elevates them. Baylee’s dedication, leadership, and generosity make her truly deserving of this award.”
“I am enormously proud to have received this award,” Easterday said. “IVLP has existed for 85 years because of the undeniable truth that person-to-person connections and searching for common ground — and using that common ground to make change — is what matters.”
The Global Ties U.S. 2025 National Meeting took place February 18–21 in Washington, DC. This year’s theme, “Stronger Alliances, Stronger Communities,” explored the multidimensional benefits of exchanges and how exchange programs strengthen U.S. influence and security abroad and build stronger communities and workforces here at home.
“We are thrilled that Baylee was honored by the Global Ties U.S. community,” said World Learning Senior Program Officer Anthony Zaun. “Her colleagues across the network, including the Office of International Visitors, National Program Agencies, and community-based members recognize Baylee for her innovative programming, thoughtful leadership, and dedication to building transformative experiences for program participants and the U.S. communities that host them.”
Global Ties U.S. connects people and communities in the United States with global leaders through international exchange programs. Since 1961, Global Ties U.S. has powered a community-based network of more than 80 nonprofit organizations that serve all 50 U.S. States. The work of Global Ties U.S. advances U.S. strategic priorities abroad and boosts prosperity at home.
The International Visitor Leadership Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and celebrates its 85th anniversary this year.
