On November 15, 2024, Friday, at 19:00, the American Council for International Education in Kosovo organized a gala evening with the theme "Two Decades of Inspiring Change Makers", celebrating the 20th anniversary of the American Education Fund for Kosovo (KAEF) – an important point in his legacy.

Over 250 guests attended the gala, including Prime Minister Albin Kurti, former KAEF President and Honorary Board Member Atifete Jahjaga, former Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj, as well as representatives from the US Embassy and the Embassy of Albania in Kosovo.

In their opening remarks, Mrs. Lisa Choate, President & CEO, and Mr. Geni Shporta, Director of the American Council for International Education in Kosovo, warmly welcomed the guests on this special occasion.

Ms. Choate emphasized KAEF's contributions as well as the importance of educational exchange opportunities as powerful tools for social change and development. Next, Mr. Shporta reflected on the achievements as an opportunity to honor the past, embrace the present and envision an even brighter future. Together, they also drew attention to another important anniversary: ​​the 50th anniversary of the American Council on International Education.

After that, Mrs. Life Zagragja and Mr. Michael E. Hora, Co-Chairs of the KAEF Board in Kosovo and USA, warmly greeted the attendees.

Thanking KAEF's contributors over the years, Mr. Hora and Mrs. Zagragja emphasized that KAEF has been instrumental in building human capital that has enriched Kosovo's society in many ways, noting that KAEF scholarship holders have become active voices in the community.

"During the last two decades, this program has enriched the socio-economic development of Kosovo and has left a legacy that we have felt in every sector of our society. Today, 115 beneficiaries have returned to Kosovo, contributing to development as ministers, innovators and leading citizens. Their work proves the immense and continuing power of education," said Ms. Zagragja.

The evening continued with an address by Prime Minister Albin Kurti. In his speech, Mr. Kurti said: "Together, we can cultivate a steady stream of capable and innovative leaders to further strengthen Kosovo's economy, good governance and global reputation. We are eager to continue and expand our collaboration with KAEF and the American Council, building on a foundation of excellence."

Former President Jahjaga spoke about the impact of educational opportunities, such as those offered by KAEF, in improving society.

"Throughout all these years, KAEF has had nothing but a history of success. Therefore, I hope that this program will continue to grow stronger and have an even greater impact for a more stable and democratic future for our country."

Further, Mr. Gazmend Gjonbalaj, Board Member of the American Council for International Education and KAEF, introduced the main speaker of the evening: Mrs. Drena Kusari-Berisha, Vice President and General Manager at Microsoft, who recently joined the KAEF board.

"For two decades, this program has opened doors to education, careers and dreams that once seemed distant. As a KAEF board member, celebrating this anniversary reminds me of the countless stories built on the opportunities this program has provided," said mrs. Kusari-Berisha.

She further emphasized that the future of Kosovo is not only about taking the step - it is also about shaping the world stage, utilizing our strengths and realizing our great potential.

"With the foundation of sustainability, community and strength of our diaspora, the question is not whether Kosovo will leave its mark, but how big that mark will be," concluded Ms. Kusari-Berisha.

During the evening, Mr. Dale Pfeiffer, Founder of KAEF, and Mrs. Erëza Gjikolli, President of the KAEF Alumni Association, announced the award winners, recognizing supporters from the past two decades. Mr. Pfeiffer, who received the KAEF Founder's Legacy Award, emphasized the ambassadorial role that all KAEF fellows play in representing Kosovo and the United States. Together with Mrs. Gjikolli, they recognized the following supporters of the program:

• KAEF Award for Advocacy - Behgjet Pacolli Foundation

• KAEF Award for the Changing Corporation – Meridian Express

• KAEF Outstanding Achievement Award - Michael E. Hora

• KAEF Legacy Award - United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

At the end of the program, Mrs. Gjikolli presented a video from a special guest to mark this important moment. Amidst the applause of the crowd, President Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States, appeared on the screen, giving an emotional and supportive speech. He touched the attendees of the gala saying:

"It will always be one of the greatest honors of my life that I was able to stand with the people of Kosovo against ethnic cleansing and for freedom. And I am deeply grateful to organizations like KAEF and its leaders in Kosovo and the States United States, who are continuing to work to build a transparent and accountable democracy and an inclusive economy. I wish you all a productive evening and much continued success for this outstanding program."

Twenty-five years ago, President Clinton led the international coalition to intervene in Kosovo through the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and is recognized for his steadfast leadership and support for the continued peace and stability of the entire region.

The gala evening ended with a warm reception and a live performance by Don't Listen to Your Neighbors. This anniversary provided an opportunity for KAEF scholars, business representatives, and community and institutional leaders to network and celebrate together.

The KAEF community expresses deep gratitude to the generous supporters of the evening: Rockerfeller Brothers Fund, Behgjet Pacolli Foundation, Meridian Express, AnchorzUp, FINCA, Bzzz Entertainment, InterSport Kosova, KOSTT, Recura Financials, Bora, Gjirafa, INSI, KFC, Prishtina Mall, Prishtina Premium, Shkolla.AI, The Hartsdale Group and Wasabi.

All proceeds collected from this evening went to the Kosovar-American Education Fund.

About KAEF

Originally established with funds from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), KAEF is now funded primarily through the generous support of individuals and businesses in Kosovo, the Government of Kosovo, US donors and US universities.

Administered by the American Council on International Education, KAEF has supported over 115 Kosovar students through full postgraduate scholarships to over 40 leading universities in the United States since its establishment in 2004.