DiplomacyRISE (Readiness, Innovation, Skill, and Equity)

DiplomacyRISE is Meridian’s investment in the future of diplomacy and strengthening of America’s international relations talent ecosystem by developing the next generation of global affairs practitioners that reflect America’s diversity and are equipped with 21st-century statecraft skills and knowledge. The inclusive professional development initiative provides college students and young professionals with greater access to critical skills training, career guidance networks and emerging issue area expertise. 

Since launching DiplomacyRISE in April 2021, Meridian has partnered with the Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Summer Enrichment Program, National Science Policy Network, Theodore Roosevelt High School, Una Chapman Cox Foundation, Women in Science Diplomacy Association, the Institute for Responsible Citizenship, and the Washington Program Consortium on building out their career development programs, while routinely speaking with college and university groups on professional pathways to diplomacy and global affairs positions. 

Since summer 2022, Meridian has partnered with the National Science Policy Network on a Diplomatic Skills Training for Emerging Scientists course to provide scientists, doctors, engineers and similar professionals interested in becoming international affairs practitioners with education focused on soft skills that are central to diplomacy. In summer 2024, Meridian will be hosting the third annual Diplomatic Skills Training for Emerging Scientists.  

In summer 2023, Meridian offered a paid summer enrichment and mentorship program in an effort to expand access to global education opportunities and international affairs careers to community college, transfer, and non-traditional students. The Community College Global Affairs Fellowship (CCGAF) was held in partnership with Global Community College Transfers and Community Colleges for International Development (CCID) through the generous support of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.  

Our Latest Fellowship

In summer 2024, Meridian will be hosting the Meridian-Cox Foreign Service Fellowship for Emerging Leaders, a fully-funded enrichment and training program seeking to expand awareness and access to Foreign Service careers to students from underrepresented communities across the United States. Students will also receive a $500 stipend for their participation. Applications are now open. See full details here 

Meridian continues to build a network of diverse, passionate international affairs professionals and share opportunities through our DiplomacyRISE LinkedIn group. If you would like to be added or have an opportunity to share with the group, please email DiplomacyRISE@meridian.org. 

For more information on DiplomacyRISE, please email diplomacyrise@meridian.org. 

Recommendation Report on Diversity in Diplomacy Recommendation Report on Critical Issue Areas

 

Recent Articles

Learn More about DiplomacyRISE's Impact

Watch Here: Impact of the Community College Global Affairs Fellowship

Watch Here: Student Testimonial

 

LinkedIn Post by Dr. Karina Vega-Villa

Igniting the Week of Women and Girls

The Chemistry of Cooperation: The Next Generation of Science Diplomats

2023 Community College Global Affairs Fellowship Fellow Cohort

Inaugural Fellowship Immerses Community College Students in U.S. Global Affairs Ecosystem

Community College Global Affairs Fellowship 2023

Meridian Trains Next Generation of Science Diplomats

Meridian International Center launches fully paid global affairs fellowship for community college students at 2022 Meridian Summit.

PRESS RELEASE: Announcing the DiplomacyRISE Initiative