External Affairs

Meridian’s External Affairs office is responsible for maintaining relationships with Meridian’s external audiences, organizational communications, cultivating development opportunities, cultural diplomacy programs, and for the maintenance and renovations of Meridian’s historic buildings. This team is broken down into several (small but mighty!) arms, each with different roles and needs. Each of these teams is looking hire interns for the Summer semester.

Development

Our Development team is responsible for raising funds to support Meridian's global leadership activities, cultural diplomacy programs, and for the maintenance and renovations of Meridian’s historic buildings. These goals are achieved through annual fundraising campaigns, memberships in Meridian Councils, and public events and forums. Support comes from individual donors, corporations, and foundations. The Development team also spearheads the annual Meridian Ball, a signature event in Washington, DC, and Meridian’s largest fundraiser, now entering its 50th year.

Executive Office & Events

Our Executive Office team works to support the President & CEO, EVP & COO, as well as the larger External Affairs team. This is an Operations focused team, that plugs into many of the other External Affairs initiatives, conducts research and briefing on behalf of our Executive Office, and supports Board of Trustee initiatives.Our Events team supports all programs & events on Meridian’s campus, both internally and with external clients. They are the primary contact for most events where Meridian partners with the Diplomatic Corps, and works closely with the Development team to execute the Meridian Ball each Fall.

Communications

The Meridian Communications team supports the overall mission of the organization by engaging a broad network and audience through social media, the creation of online content, providing press outreach and support for all events, and developing a unique Meridian brand. The Communications team covers events and programs across all divisions within Meridian, including our international exchange programs, and External Affairs-led events.

Staff

NameTitle  
Rebecca Bernbach-GravesSenior Coordinator, Visual & Graphic Design
Vishva BhattSenior Diplomatic Engagement Associate
Katherine BoyceSenior Director, External Affairs
Maria CanellisDirector of Events
Erik CieslewiczVideo Production Manager
Sienna GirgentiDirector, Center for Diplomatic Engagement
Steven GreenwaldCorporate Relations Manager
Natalie JonesExecutive Vice President
Frank JusticeVice President, Center for Diplomatic Engagement
Emma MearsAssociate, Institutional Advancement
Rodrigo MoreschiSenior Corporate Relations Associate
Nicole Mularz
Halle MurdockSenior Associate, Institutional Advancement
Danielle NajjarDirector, Communications and Marketing
Silbi StaintonSenior Director of Strategic Partnerships and Philanthropy
Puru TrivediVice President of External and Corporate Affairs