IAFS Alum Creates the Casey Family Global Grants Endowment, and Challenges You!

Ambassador Mary Ann Casey, chair of the Program in International Affairs Advisory Board, has recently created the Casey Family Global Grants Endowment to ensure that students can experience overseas education. "The Global Grants program is not just a game changer: it is a life-changer,” says Casey. “It is a gift that keeps on giving, long after students have returned home."  This significant contribution of $100,000 reinforces and fortifies her legacy as a generous benefactor of the International Affairs Program and a friend to the College of Arts and Sciences.  We hope she inspires you to give to the Global Grants fund and help our students turn their dreams of international study into reality.

Ambassador Casey developed an interest in all things international at an early age. Her parents, long-time teachers at CU Denver, had a passion for travel and encouraged their children to develop the same adventurous spirit. With this inspiration, Ambassador Casey chose to study international affairs at CU Boulder, a major she sees as essential to a global perspective. "International Affairs is one of the top majors on campus,” shares Casey. “And no wonder! Never has understanding the world beyond our borders been more important to the future of the United States."

With her International Affairs degree, Ambassador Casey began her highly successful career with the U.S. State Department, where she became a Middle East expert and a deep area specialist for North Africa. As Ambassador to Algeria and later as Ambassador to Tunisia, she managed major American foreign policy issues, including international security, human rights, and U.S. investment abroad.

As chair of the International Affairs Advisory Board, she oversees support for the Global Grants study abroad scholarship. The Global Grants program has already helped over 75 students study abroad all over the world, putting their study of international affairs into action.

With her generous involvement over the years, Ambassador Casey continues to promote global awareness within our community. We extend our sincerest thanks to Ambassador Casey for her generosity, guidance, and passion for international affairs!  The challenge is now yours!

Be a part of our Global Grants endowment and share your excitement for international learning! The Global Grants support students as they study abroad and experience the world. Help International Affairs continue to grow our Global Grants endowment by giving today.