The Fulbright Association has released a statement of action, which follows (also available at https://fulbright.org/2025/04/18/together-we-standforfulbright/):
On behalf of the Fulbright Association, thank you. Because of your unwavering advocacy and belief in global exchange, Congress has restored some of the FY25 funding for international exchange programs—including our vital chapter grant from IIE. This is more than a budget win. It’s a resounding reaffirmation of Fulbright’s global value—and what we can achieve when we speak with one voice.
Our work is far from over. In fact, it’s intensifying. We now face two urgent challenges:
Congress must fully fund the Fulbright Program and the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) in the FY26 budget. With continued investment, America will maintain its leadership in international education and diplomacy.
We are deeply concerned about the growing uncertainty surrounding visas. This is increasingly affecting the stability of the Fulbright program, our alumni, and related initiatives.
We cannot—and will not—stay silent. We urge you to contact your representatives. Share your story. Stand with those affected and the Fulbright Association. Together, we protect the Fulbright mission.
Here’s how we’re taking action:
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Partnering with the Alliance for International Exchange to amplify our collective voice and direct connections to decision makers.
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We are in discussion with the U.S. for Success Coalition, and their partners to navigate a possible collaboration to foster student success during this time.
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We’re tracking these issues in real time—check our website for key updates.
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Our partners at NAFSA have launched an Action Alert so you can contact Congress directly. [Share it. Use it. Amplify it.]
And we’re not stopping there.
Following our #StandforFulbright Advocacy Day on March 12, we’re mobilizing our 54 chapters, bipartisan allies on the Hill, and global partners to lead with purpose and clarity. Soon, we’ll launch a letter-writing campaign to uphold Fulbright’s integrity and amplify our campaign. Please keep us abreast of any updates and/or warm connections that could help us make progress – jennifer.oxley@fulbright.org.
This is not a time for reaction. It’s time for resolve.
We are committed—to our mission, our alumni, and Fulbright’s future. That’s why we’re offering resources like our upcoming mental health webinar on April 29—free for all alumni—to help our community stay strong and connected.
And on May 8, we will gather. Join us—in Washington, D.C. or online—for the inaugural
#StandForFulbright: Night of Champions. This isn’t just an event. It’s a rallying cry. A stand for everything Fulbright represents. Register now – $19.46 in honor of Fulbright’s founding year and in support of our ongoing advocacy campaign.
Your voice. Your connections. Our power. When we show up—loud, clear, and united—we protect and advance Fulbright’s future and each other.
Let’s keep going. Let’s keep standing. Together, we #StandForFulbright.
Walter R. McCollum,PhD
President and Chair, FA National Board
Jennifer Oxley
Interim Executive Director