The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) has inaugurated its 2023-24 CFR Education Ambassador Program, proudly introducing a diverse assembly of educators, including Sean D. Foreman, PhD, esteemed Professor of Political Science and Department Chair of History and Political Science at Barry University. Dr. Foreman, a prominent figure in civic education and electoral studies, also co-founded and co-chairs Barry’s Campus Democracy Project, advocating for civic education and voter registration initiatives.

CFR’s Education Ambassador Program, spanning nine months, is an innovative initiative linking educators globally, providing invaluable resources, developmental activities, and a vibrant network of professionals dedicated to preparing students with the essential knowledge, skills, and perspectives for navigating our globally interconnected environment.

This year’s program is distinct, opening its doors for the first time to ambassadors from both high school and higher education sectors. CFR Education has meticulously chosen seventy distinguished individuals—comprising teachers, department heads, and curriculum leaders—for the high school ambassador segment. This elite group encompasses current and former national and state educators of the year, pivotal members of national and state councils for social studies, and staunch proponents of global civics education.

CFR’s Vice President of Education, Caroline Netchvolodoff, underscored the pivotal role of educators in safeguarding American democracy amidst persisting global challenges. “The daily news cycle is a testament to the ever-present international threats that significantly influence our lives, necessitating a sustained focus on students’ global education,” she stated. Netchvolodoff emphatically stressed the indispensability of advancing global literacy—comprising the knowledge, skills, and discernment requisite for traversing today’s intricately linked world—as a cornerstone of national security and prosperity.

Dr. Foreman’s inclusion in this prestigious program is noteworthy. His extensive academic contributions, highlighted by six co-edited books on elections, and his frequent insights in various media publications, underscore his expertise and commitment to the field. His role in the CFR program heralds an enriched educational experience for students, fostering a more informed, engaged, and globally aware citizenry.