Who we are

Mission and Values

The Institute of International Education (IIE) fosters mutual understanding, develops global leaders, and protects academic freedom worldwide through educational exchange and training programs that advance the vision of Opening Minds to the World®.

Peace and prosperity around the world depend on increasing the capacity of people to think and work on a global and intercultural basis.


Our Mission

  • Promoting closer educational relations between the people of the United States and those of other countries.
  • Strengthening and linking institutions of higher learning globally.
  • Rescuing threatened scholars and advancing academic freedom.
  • Building leadership skills and enhancing the capacity of individuals and organizations to address local and global challenges.

IIE Core Values

IIE is committed to its goal of Opening Minds to the World ®.

The following core values guide all that we do:

Integrity. All our actions and relationships are based on honesty, authenticity, accountability, and trust.

Global awareness. Achieving diversity within our staff and program participants helps increase mutual understanding of our world and its people.

Collaboration. Working together creates a better result by tapping into our collective wisdom.

Professionalism. All our actions reflect on ourselves and our partners. We act and communicate with courtesy, respect and discretion.

Excellence. Passion, innovation and a commitment to serve drive us to deliver the highest quality work.

Service. We care deeply about our beneficiaries, sponsors and colleagues and respond to their needs with flexibility, reliability, and dedication.

An independent not-for-profit founded in 1919, IIE is among the world's largest and most experienced international education and training organizations. We are committed to delivering program excellence to a diverse range of participants, sponsors, and donors.

IIE Experts

IIE experts on international education are available for interviews or speaking engagements.

Allan E. Goodman
President and CEO

Peggy Blumenthal 
Executive Vice President

Media Contacts

Sharon Witherell
Director, Public Affairs
Tel: +1 212.984.5380
E-mail: switherell@iie.org

Leena Soman
Manager, Public Affairs
Tel: +1 212.984.5360
E-mail: lsoman@iie.org

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