Businesses, NGO’s Salute Congressional Champions for Commitment to U.S. Global Engagement

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, December 11th, the U.S. Global Leadership Campaign (USGLC) will pay tribute to Senator Richard J. Durbin (D-IL) and Representative Christopher Shays (R-CT) for their steadfast commitment to U.S. global engagement and outspoken support of the U.S. International Affairs Budget. Award-winning and internationally renowned journalist Andrea Koppel will serve as the Master of Ceremonies. Additional speakers include George Ingram, President of the USGLC, Tony Barclay, Chief Executive Officer of DAI, and George Rupp, President & CEO of the International Rescue Committee.

Senate Assistant Majority Leader Richard J. Durbin is Illinois’ senior U.S. Senator and a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. A true champion of global engagement, Senator Durbin has been a long-standing supporter of the International Affairs Budget, and as second in command of the Senate plays a significant leadership role in advancing essential funding for America’s global initiatives.

Representative Christopher Shays represents Connecticut’s 4th Congressional District and has been a consistent voice in support of development and diplomatic initiatives. His service on the House Homeland Security Committee and as ranking member of the House Oversight & Government Reform Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs gives him a unique perspective on the importance of international affairs funding in meeting the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

About the U.S. Global Leadership Campaign
The U.S. Global Leadership Campaign (USGLC) is a broad-based, nationwide coalition of businesses, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community leaders that advocates for a strong U.S. International Affairs Budget. Members of the USGLC – a vibrant, influential network of 400 organizations and thousands of individuals – engage policymakers in the nation’s capital and educate the public around the country to build support for these essential programs.

The International Affairs Budget provides America with the fundamental tools to meet the global challenges of the 21st century and is critical to protecting our national security, building economic prosperity, and strengthening humanitarian values. For more information, visit www.usglc.org.