Washington, D.C. (January 16, 2025)– Sister Cities International (SCI) is proud to announce the resounding success of its 2025 Inaugural Gala Celebration. This historic event marked a significant moment in SCI’s ongoing mission to promote peace and mutual understanding through citizen diplomacy.
Since its founding in 1956, SCI has been uniquely tied to the presidency, with many U.S. Presidents serving as SCI’s Honorary Chairman. The 2025 Inaugural Gala celebrated the office of the President of the United States, honoring the distinctly American tradition of the executive office and commemorating the peaceful transfer of power—a cornerstone of American democracy.
The prestigious event brought together an esteemed group of attendees, including Ambassadors, diplomats, national leaders, municipal officials, and community advocates. SCI was honored to have the German Ambassador to the United States, Andreas Michaelis, and his wife, Heike Michaelis, host the gala at the German Ambassador’s Residence in Washington, D.C. Their gracious hospitality underscored the spirit of international friendship and cooperation that lies at the heart of SCI’s mission.
As SCI continues to expand its programs and partnerships, the organization remains committed to building bridges between communities worldwide. Events like the Inaugural Gala Celebration highlight the enduring importance of diplomacy and cultural exchange in today’s interconnected world. For more details on Sister Cities International, please visit www.sistercities.org.
About Sister Cities International – Founded as a Presidential Initiative by Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956, Sister Cities International serves as the national membership organization of nearly 400 U.S. communities with over 1,800 partnerships in more than 138 countries on six continents. The Sister City network unites tens of thousands of citizen diplomats and volunteers who work tirelessly to promote the organizations’ mission of creating world peace and understanding through programs and projects focusing on arts and culture, youth and education, business and trade, and community development.
