Peace Corps director to speak on 'Black Americans Impacting Global Development and Diplomacy'

October 28, 2008

Henry McKoy, Peace Corps regional director for Africa, will speak at 7 p.m. on Oct. 28 at the Hub International Center. He will outline the Peace Corps’ impact in Africa over the past five years, including the evolution of strategic alliances with organizations like the Carter Center and the Centers for Disease Control. The presentation will acknowledge why the black American voice adds value to our nation’s ability to effectively respond to the complexities of international economic and social development.

McKoy will focus his message on the importance of black Americans, both young college graduates and older individuals who posses lifelong skills, to participate in global peace and development. McKoy will provide advice on how Peace Corps service can lead to international development and diplomacy positions with USAID and the U.S. Foreign Service, non-governmental organizations like Care International, and multi-lateral institutions like the World Bank.

Since 1961, more than 185,000 Americans have served as Peace Corps volunteers, establishing strong partnerships with citizens in developing countries around the globe. Volunteers currently work in the areas of education, health and HIV/AIDS, business development, agriculture and the environment.