Muskie Commencement Retreat

On May 20 – 23, over 150 Edmund S. Muskie fellows gathered for the second annual Commencement Retreat at the Rocky Gap Lodge and Resort in Cumberland, MD. With beautiful views of the lake and mountains, participants enjoyed the opportunity for networking and professional development, as well as to reflect upon the challenges and the achievements of the past one or two years and prepare for their return home. Sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the retreat included a series of activity-filled interactive workshops on career development, culture shock, and teambuilding and leadership activities.

Debbie Hefferon, a consultant on cross-cultural communication, opened the retreat with a presentation on reverse culture shock. Muskie staff facilitated the sessions that followed, which involved presentations, group discussions, case studies and activities. Video interviews with Muskie alumni educated participants on the experiences and coping mechanisms of alumni upon returning to their home countries, as well as tips on establishing a career upon their return home. Fellows also heard about ways they can be involved as alumni back at home, through networking gatherings and alumni grant opportunities. Tuesday afternoon was a highlight for many participants, as fellows participated in a leadership and team-building exercises that gave insight into group dynamics and provided a fun opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and the sunshine.

Commencement concluded with a celebratory lunch in Washington, D.C. at the Hotel Monaco, where representatives from the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs; Ambassadors and foreign embassy representatives; and other special guests joined in congratulating participants on successfully completing the Muskie program.