Spirit Cultural Exchange is proud to recognize Suzanne Kolasa who has received the highest honor for leadership in the international cultural exchange industry, the 2025 McCarry Leadership Award.
This award, presented annually by the Alliance for International Exchange, highlights professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing cultural exchange opportunities worldwide.
Suzanne’s Leadership in Cultural Exchange at Spirit
Suzanne is the Director of Professional Programs at Spirit Cultural Exchange and manages the Intern, Trainee, and Teacher Programs. She has worked with Spirit since 2012, starting her career working on the Summer Work and Travel Program before moving into new and developing programs.
As Director of Professional Programs, she focuses on creating experiences that encourage exchange participants to broaden their professional and personal horizons while cultivating an environment where team members feel inspired and motivated.
Reflecting on receiving the award, Suzanne shared: “It is truly an honor to receive the 2025 McCarry Leadership Award. Over the past 13 years, I have been mentored and inspired by an unbelievable group of colleagues and teammates at Spirit Cultural Exchange. Working alongside them has reinforced my belief that cultural exchange and travel is a transformative and necessary experience. I am excited to continue learning from the Alliance and collaborating with colleagues across our field to shape the future of exchange programs; ensuring they remain accessible, impactful, and essential to our interconnected world.”
As part of her award, Suzanne will join the Young Professionals of the Alliance (YPA) Steering Committee, contributing their voices to the future of international exchange. Through their leadership, the next generation of exchange professionals will continue to strengthen programs that make a difference for participants, Host Companies, Host Schools, and communities.
At Spirit Cultural Exchange, we are honored to have Suzanne recognized on this global stage. This achievement reinforces the vital role of cultural exchange, the impact of the BridgeUSA J-1 visa programs, and the importance of supporting professionals who dedicate their careers to international education.
To read the Alliance’s official announcement, visit their website here.