In recognition of a career dedicated to advancing the rights of women and girls, IREX presented the 2013 Founders’ Day Award to Ambassador Melanne S. Verveer for her work to make a better world. Appointed by President Obama as the first U.S. Ambassador for Global Women’s Issues [9] in 2009, she worked with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to elevate the status of women around the world and highlight their essential role in economic development and peacebuilding. In February 2013, she returned to her alma mater, Georgetown University, to serve as the director of their new Institute for Women, Peace and Security [10]. Ambassador Verveer graciously accepted the award at IREX’s 45th anniversary celebration this week.
“It was an honor to have Ambassador Verveer join us for this milestone in our history. She reminded us of the progress we have made championing women in development as well as the important work ahead for years to come,” said IREX President W. Robert Pearson.
We are pleased to share the video of Ambassador Verveer’s recent interview with IREX’s Senior Media Advisor Drusilla Menaker [11] discussing her experiences and views on the challenges and opportunities ahead for gender [12] equality.