How would you fully describe the combined emotional, spiritual and educational journey that nineteen young scholars from 18 different countries experienced as a group, over 4 intensive weeks? It’s nearly impossible. Yet, each year our Caux Scholars walk away transformed and inspired with new knowledge, love, compassion, and renewed energy to continue making a difference in their home communities because of this very experience.
This year the Caux Scholars Program (CSP) celebrated its 25th Anniversary. Mountain House was abuzz with its usual mass of diverse participants from all corners of the world for the Just Governance for Human Security Conference and everyone was invited to celebrate this special CSP occasion. The program was highlighted throughout the day. The morning session started off with Amos Izerimana, one of this year’s scholars, sharing his powerful story of migration from Burundi to the USA as a refugee. He spoke about his efforts to help other refugees in his Kentucky community cope with the drastic and difficult changes in their lives. Again CSP was proudly highlighted when Kristen Weis, a Caux Scholar Alum (CSP 2014) and founder of Roskanet Environmental Company, led an excellent workshop on "Environmental Migration," sharing concerns around sustainable development issues, coastal tourism and preventative responses to potential international security threats related to climate change. In the evening the dining room was resplendent in tables set with white tablecloths. Conference participants had the opportunity to speak with to CSP scholars, alum and team members who were at each table to share information about the program and its impact. Susan Corcoran, Director of Communications, IofC USA spoke of the history of the program and what had inspired its launch back in 1991. After dinner, the program celebration continued at a smaller reception as guests got to know the current CSP scholars and meet the alumi present. A reflection was shared by Bruce Myers (CSP 1992) on how CSP impacted his life and challenged his life choices. The remainder of the evening was spent enjoying a delicious cake, music, dancing and an impromptu talent show. 
It is important to note that at this 25th anniversary year the Caux Scholars Program has now appointed Regional Officers across the globe. Nearly all 20 positions have been filled. The Regional Officers will be instrumental in establishing connections and a more efficient networking process for our alumni. Arranging Regional Reunions is a significant part of the duties of these volunteers coordinators. Providing partnership, career and further scholarship opportunities for our alumni has been a critical goal for the CSP as well as the many ways to engage with the global network that Initiatives of Change offers. We are grateful for the CSP alumni who give back to the program, and all those from Initiatives of Change who have supported us over the years.