Celebrating Two Decades of KAEF: A Legacy of Inspiring Change Makers
On Friday, November 15, 2024, at 19:00, American Councils for International Education in Kosova hosted “Two Decades of Inspiring Change Makers,” a gala evening celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Kosovo American Educational Fund (KAEF)- a significant milestone in its legacy.
Over 250 guests attended the gala, including Prime Minister Albin Kurti, former President and KAEF Honorary Committee Member Atifete Jahjaga, former Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj, and representatives from the U.S. Embassy and the Albanian Embassy in Kosovo.
In their opening remarks, Ms. Lisa Choate, President & CEO, and Mr. Gjeni Shporta, Kosova Country Director of American Councils for International Education, warmly welcomed guests to this special occasion.
Ms. Choate highlighted KAEF’s contributions and underscored the importance of educational exchange opportunities as powerful tools for social change and development. Mr. Shporta reflected on milestones as opportunities to honor the past, embrace the present, and envision an even brighter future. Together, they also drew attention to another remarkable milestone: the 50th anniversary of the American Councils for International Education.
Following this, Ms. Jeta Zagragja and Mr. Michael E. Hora, Kosova and U.S. Co-Chairs of the KAEF Committee, extended warm greetings to those present.
Thanking KAEF contributors over the years, Mr. Michael Hora, and Ms. Jeta Zagragja highlighted that KAEF has been instrumental in building human capital that has enriched Kosova’s society in multiple ways, noting that KAEF alumni have become active voices in the community.
“Over the past two decades, this program has enriched Kosovo's socio-economic development and left a legacy felt in every sector of our society. Today, 115 scholarship recipients have returned home, driving progress as ministers, innovators, and civic leaders. Their work proves the immense, rippling power of education.” said Ms. Zagragja.
The evening’s agenda continued with an address by Prime Minister Albin Kurti. In his remarks, Mr. Kurti stated, “Together, we can cultivate a steady pipeline of skilled, innovative leaders to further empower Kosovo’s economy, good governance, and global reputation. We are eager to continue and expand our collaboration with KAEF and American Councils, building on a foundation of excellence.”
Former President Jahjaga spoke about the impact of educational opportunities, such as those provided by KAEF, on the betterment of society.
“Throughout all these years, KAEF has no story other than that of success. Therefore, I hope that this program continues to grow stronger and have an even greater impact for a more sustainable and democratic future for our country."
Further, Mr. Gazmend Gjonbalaj, Trustee and Committee Member of American Councils for International Education and KAEF, introduced the keynote speaker of the evening: Ms. Drena Kusari-Berisha, Vice President and General Manager at Microsoft who recently joined the KAEF committee.
“For two decades, this program has opened doors to education, careers, and dreams that once felt distant. As a KAEF board member, celebrating this anniversary reminds me of the countless stories built on the opportunities this program has provided.” said Ms. Kusari-Berisha.
She further highlighted that the future of Kosova isn’t just about catching up- it’s about shaping the world stage, leveraging our strengths, and realizing our vast potential.
“With the foundation of resilience, community, and the power of our global diaspora, the question isn’t whether Kosovo will make its mark but how big that mark will be.” Ms. Kusari-Berisha concluded.
During the evening, Mr. Dale Pfeiffer, KAEF Founder, and Ms. Erëza Gjikolli, President of the KAEF Alumni Association, announced the award winners, recognizing supporters from the past two decades. Mr. Pfeiffer, who received the KAEF Founder’s Legacy Award, highlighted the ambassadorial role played by all KAEF fellows in representing both Kosova and the United States. Together with Ms. Gjikolli, they acknowledged the following program supporters:
KAEF Corporate Changemaker Award - Behgjet Pacolli Foundation
KAEF Corporate Changemaker Award – Meridian Express
KAEF Honorary Achievement Award - Michael E. Hora
KAEF Legacy Award - United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
Closing the event program, Ms. Gjikolli introduced a special guest video to commemorate this important milestone for the program. To the crowd’s applause, President Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States, appeared on screen, delivering an emotional and supportive speech. He touched the gala attendees by stating:
“It will always be one of the great honors of my life that I was able to stand with the people of Kosovo against ethnic cleansing and for freedom. And I am profoundly grateful to organizations like KAEF and its leaders in both Kosovo and the United States, who are continuing to work to build a transparent and accountable democracy, and an inclusive economy. I wish you all a productive event and much continued success for this extraordinary program.”
Twenty-five years ago, President Clinton led the international coalition to intervene in Kosovo through the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and is recognized for his steadfast leadership and support of the continued peace and stability of the entire region.
The gala evening concluded with a warm reception and a live performance by Don’t Listen to Your Neighbors. The event provided an opportunity for KAEF alumni, business representatives, and community and institutional leaders to connect and celebrate together.
The KAEF community expresses immense gratitude to the following generous supporters of the evening: Rockerfeller Brothers Fund, Behgjet Pacolli Foundation, Meridian Express, AnchorzUp, FINCA, Bzzz Entertainment, InterSport Kosova, KOSTT, Recura Financials, Bora, Gjirafa, INSI, KFC, Prishtina Mall, Prishtina Premium, Shkolla.AI, The Hartsdale Group and Wasabi.
All of evening’s proceeds have benefited the Kosovo American Education Fund.
About
Originally established with funds from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), KAEF is now primarily funded through the generous support of individuals and businesses in Kosovo, the Government of Kosovo, American donors, and U.S. universities.
Administered by the American Councils for International Education, KAEF has supported over 115 Kosovar students through fully funded graduate fellowships in attending more than 40 leading universities in the United States, since its establishment in 2004.