A Conversation About Global Connections, Community Impact, and Denver's Future
While many of Denver Sister Cities International's activities are visible through cultural festivals, exchange programs, delegations, and community events, some of the organization's most important work takes place behind the scenes through ongoing engagement with civic leaders, community partners, and international stakeholders.
On June 2, members of the Denver Sister Cities International Board of Directors and Executive Committee met with Denver Mayor Mike Johnston and members of his staff to discuss DSCI's current initiatives, future opportunities, and the important role citizen diplomacy plays in strengthening Denver's global connections.
Representing Denver Sister Cities International were Chair Riccardo Mazzeo, Vice Chair Janice Pugh-Wohler, Board Secretary Roxane Peyser, Treasurer Fred Kaplan, and Honorary Consul of Mongolia Jim Wagenlander. The delegation reflected a broad cross-section of DSCI leadership and international engagement expertise, bringing perspectives from nonprofit governance, international law, diplomacy, cultural exchange, and community partnerships.
The meeting provided an opportunity to share the breadth of DSCI's work across its ten sister city relationships and numerous international programs. Board members highlighted a wide range of current initiatives, including cultural celebrations, educational exchanges, humanitarian projects, international delegations, and community partnerships that connect Denver with cities and citizens around the world.
Among the highlights discussed were:
- The upcoming Friendship City agreement between Denver and Dnipro, Ukraine
- The 70th Anniversary of Sister Cities International
- The 40th Anniversary of the Denver-Kunming partnership
- The 25th Anniversary of the Denver-Ulaanbaatar partnership
- Government and cultural delegations from Mongolia and China
- Adult delegation exchanges to Ulaanbaatar and Takayama
- Humanitarian efforts supporting healthcare institutions in Axum, Ethiopia through a major medical equipment shipment in partnership with Project C.U.R.E.
- Student and youth exchange programs that provide life-changing international experiences for young people
The Board also presented DSCI's recently developed Impact Statement, highlighting the organization's contributions to cultural understanding, educational exchange, humanitarian outreach, and civic engagement throughout the Denver community. The presentation was met with high regard and enthusiasm by the Mayor and his staff, who recognized the extraordinary impact generated by DSCI's volunteers, committees, and community partners.
An especially meaningful portion of the discussion focused on DSCI's commitment to expanding access to international experiences for Denver youth.
Board members shared details of a resolution unanimously adopted by the DSCI Board of Directors in September 2024, committing the organization to ensuring that at least 20 percent of participants in DSCI youth programs and exchanges come from disadvantaged or low-income backgrounds. The resolution also directs DSCI and its City Committees to raise scholarship funds to help cover transportation and participation costs for students who might otherwise be unable to take part.
The Mayor and his staff expressed appreciation for the organization's commitment to creating opportunities for young people from all backgrounds. The discussion reinforced a shared belief that international exchanges, cultural learning, and global experiences can have a transformative impact on the next generation of leaders.
Throughout the meeting, Mayor Johnston asked several thoughtful and engaging questions about Denver's sister city relationships, exchange programs, international partnerships, and the ways these connections contribute to Denver's identity as a welcoming and globally connected city. His curiosity and enthusiasm underscored the value that international engagement brings to Denver residents and communities.
The conversation concluded with a shared appreciation for the role citizen diplomacy continues to play in fostering mutual understanding, building lasting relationships, and creating opportunities that benefit both Denver and its international partners.
As Denver continues to grow as a global city, Denver Sister Cities International remains committed to its mission of promoting peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation—one individual, one community, and one relationship at a time.
DSCI members often see the results of exchanges, delegations, and community programs. This meeting serves as a reminder that significant work is also happening behind the scenes as Board and Executive Committee volunteers advocate for international engagement, build partnerships, and create new opportunities for Denver's citizens and communities throughout the year.
A special thanks to Mayor Johnston for everything he does for the city and for his support of Denver Sister Cities, Alex Gutierrez, and a special thanks to Senior Outreach Manager of Office of the Mayor and Stephanie Garnica, Director of Denver Economic Development & Opportunity for their collaboration for this meeting and their ongoing support of Denver Sister Cities.
