MATC Matters

I would like to give a big THANK YOU to everyone who helped support the eight‑day visit last week of Russian National Peace Foundation delegates.

Through that program, sponsored by the Library of Congress Open World program, we hosted five visitors from the Urals region of Russia to examine models of college and community partnerships for economic development, prevention of alcohol and drug abuse, and programs to support at‑risk youth. The group left with many ideas and models to consider, and even more enthusiasm and interest in maintaining relationships with Madison and MATC.

I would especially like to thank Terry Wermuth, Marty Richards and Dave Peterson who served as host for the delegates. Not only did these MATC employees welcome the delegates into their homes, but they also welcomed them into their hearts. Thank you for showcasing the best of American hospitality!

I also want to thank those that met with the delegates and helped arrange meetings and activities in the community including Ed Clarke, David Chastain, Jill Mason, Shawna Carter, Maria Banuelos, Jannie Ocejo, Tina Ahedo, and others. Hosting a delegation like this would not be possible without the support of these individuals and the greater MATC community.

For those who participated in delegation activities, the National Peace Foundation has asked me to include comments and feedback from you regarding the benefits for Americans of hosting a group like this. Please send me two or three sentences that provide your thoughts on how you benefited (professionally, intellectually, or culturally) from this opportunity and I will include excerpts from your comments in my report.

Thank you, Geoff

Geoff Bradshaw
International Program Planner