University Presidents and administrators convened in the American Corner (AC) Conference Executive Session hosted by the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines on 15 August 2023 in Manila. Among the participants was Mr. Romulo Vinci R. Bueza, Director of the Ateneo Internationalization for Mindanao Office, representing the Ateneo de Davao University.
In strengthening educational collaboration, the American Center Manila organized the American Spaces Conference with the theme, “Amplifying American Corners through Collaboration.” The primary objective of this executive session is to enhance the effectiveness of the AC programs and partnerships, especially for institutions hosting AC across the country. The sessions highlighted shared priorities, goals, updates, and program plans for the upcoming fiscal year.
Ms. Pauline Anderson, Deputy Public Engagement Attaché from the U.S. Embassy, presented the American Spaces Philippines Report, emphasizing the commitment to cultural and educational exchange. Furthermore, Ms. Marcy Carrel, Regional Public Engagement Specialist from the Office of American Spaces, delivered an orientation on the updated American Spaces Standards. Ms. Jennifer Anne Pascua, American Spaces Program Coordinator of the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, led a workshop on proposed programs and projects promoting collaboration and innovation. This year’s conference also featured the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) ceremonial signing between institutions, featuring keynote speaker Mr. John Groch, the Public Affairs Counselor at the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines.
The executive session also facilitated a culture of collaboration within the AmSpaces network through discussions with Ms. Carrel and identified areas for institutional collaboration with Ms. Christine Grace Catindig, Education Advisor at the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines. Additionally, attendees had an educational site visit to De La Salle University and the American Corner Manila, including a Makerspace Tour.
The event concluded with a fellowship gathering and networking session with embassy education partners, further highlighting the vital role of American Spaces in strengthening U.S.-Philippines relations. As the American Corners in the Philippines forges ahead, we look forward to more programs and activities in the future that advance educational collaboration.
Following the Executive Session, the American Spaces Philippines Conference continued for two days, from 16-17 August 2023, in Manila. This extended event brought together American Corner Directors and Coordinators, promoting a rich exchange of ideas and strategies for the future of American Corners across the Philippines.