February 2008 Meeting

The highlight of the February 2008 Fulbright Board meeting for members was their participation in several celebratory events observing the Fiftieth Anniversary of the U.S.-Spain Fulbright Commission. FSB Chair Shirley M. Green offered remarks at a Fulbright anniversary concert in Dallas, Texas on February 8 before traveling on to Washington, DC for the Board meeting and other anniversary observances.  A repeat concert performance took place at Washington’s National Gallery of Art on February 10.  The two concerts were conducted by U.S. Fulbright Scholar alum Grover Wilkens of the Orchestra of New Spain of Dallas, Texas; his previous Fulbright awards were to Spain and France.  At both events, a warm welcome was extended by the Executive Director of the U.S.-Spain Fulbright Commission, Maria Jesus Pablos.  On Monday, February 10, Ambassador of Spain Carlos Westendorp hosted a reception honoring the anniversary at his official residence.  U.S. Ambassador to Spain Eduardo Aguirre and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Academic Programs Thomas A. Farrell attended as did members of the Fulbright Board.  The Board's business meeting took place on Tuesday, February 12 after which members attended an official reception hosted by the Department of State honoring the U.S.-Spain Fulbright golden anniversary.   The event took place in the Department’s distinguished diplomatic reception rooms.  Deputy Assistant Secretary Farrell welcomed the guests on behalf of the Department of State and gave a tribute to the binational program with Spain and the many people who were responsible for its success over the past five decades.  He extended special thanks to Executive Director Maria Jesus Pablos and acknowledged the presence of the FSB Chair, Vice Chair and members.  As for the business portion of the FSB meeting, it focused upon the 2008 Fulbright Student Enrichment Seminars that were about to begin.  The FSB also welcomed a panel of five current and alumni Fulbright Student program participants from various regions and in different subject fields.  Their stories and experiences were inspiring and provided members with useful insights and advice for which they expressed their appreciation.