Emma's goodbye to Global Ties Kalamazoo
Big news (and big feelings): our Program Manager, Emma, has embarked on a new chapter. Saying goodbye is bittersweet, but we’re so grateful for everything she brought to Global Ties Kalamazoo over two and a half years.
Emma shared this with our community:
“It really does feel impossible to express the gratitude I have for Global Ties Kalamazoo and the impact my last few years as Program Manager has had on me not only as a professional but as a person. This work was so much more than just a job. Connecting with hundreds of people from across the globe has broadened my perspective in ways I could have never imagined. Perhaps the most valuable lesson I learned is the power of everyday people, no matter where they come from or what resources they have access to, to make their communities and by extension, the world a better place.
“I have had the privilege to sit around tables with dissident journalists, human trafficking survivors and advocates, educators, entrepreneurs, youth ambassadors, and truly incredible colleagues. Witnessing moments of connection across cultures, and seeing how open doors, honest conversations, and shared meals can build understanding in ways policy alone never could. The resilience, openness, strength and dedication I have seen from all of them give me hope for the world and what we can achieve when we come together.
“Thank you to each and every person who made this experience so rewarding, our partners, international participants, and most especially our team and the incomparable Kalamazoo community who are the heart of this work. What a joy it has been to share the best of this place on a global stage.
“While I’m stepping into a new chapter, Global Ties Kalamazoo and the people who make this mission possible, will have a lasting impact in my life and I know that the exchanges many of you have participated in have left a lasting impact in yours. I leave knowing that this work has never been more important, and that it could not be in more capable hands in Kalamazoo. I will continue to support the power of people-to-people diplomacy and I hope that you will too.”
And from our Executive Director, Jodi Hope Michaels:
“Emma!! You leaving still remains totally and completely surreal
“The past 2.5 years working with Emma have been an absolute joy. The trust was immediate, the workflow ceaseless, while always interesting, and what we have been able to do to really live into our mission has been incredible. Emma, you have been an amazing colleague and friend. You will continue to set the world on fire, making it better, and we will find a way to collaborate again... So much gratitude!”
Emma: thank you for the heart, the hustle, the care, and the way you made this work feel so human. You’ve helped create space for connection across cultures, and you’ve represented Kalamazoo with so much pride and love. We miss you deeply, and are excited about all that you will do.
We hope you’ll join us in sending Emma lots of love, and in continuing to support the people-to-people work that she championed every day.