Washington, DC - The U.S. Department of State, and the Office of the Chief of Protocol, announce the 22nd Experience America trip to Indianapolis, Indiana, with members of the foreign Diplomatic Corps, May 6-8, 2018.
Over 30 foreign ambassadors – representing countries across four continents – will join Ambassador Sean P. Lawler, Chief of Protocol of the United States, to engage local business and community leaders and spotlight America’s heartland. Indianapolis has emerged on the world stage as a signature city for companies in information technology, automotive and advanced manufacturing, as well as biomedical and pharmaceutical research.
This visit will not only highlight the economic growth occurring throughout Indiana, but also provide countless opportunities to create new global partnerships and boost trade and investment.
Sunday, May 6th – 6:30 p.m. Welcome Reception at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Headquarters, Hall of Champions – An opportunity for the foreign ambassadors to meet and interact with Indianapolis’s top academic and cultural leaders. Event will feature remarks by representatives of Indiana, Ambassador Lawler and officials from the NCAA.
Monday, May 7th – 8:15 a.m. In Conversation with Indiana University – This event will feature a discussion about the newly established Center for Rural Engagement at Indiana University-Bloomington illustrating how IU is connecting its broad resources with community projects and partnerships to address challenges and opportunities across southwest central Indiana. The conversation will highlight how the center’s various initiatives will improve the lives of people living across the region, and illustrate how university-led collaboration can create unique solutions to complex challenges common to rural communities all around the nation.
Monday, May 7th – 12:30 a.m. Manufacturing Plant Tour at the Cummins Midrange Engine Plant – Diplomats will witness the latest in how technology shapes the future of manufacturing at the Cummins Midrange Engine Plant (CMEP). Cummins is a global power and technology leader in the design and manufacture of a variety of power solutions including clean diesel and near-zero natural gas engines. At CMEP, Cummins will highlight the latest in advanced manufacturing and automation, and spotlight how leading manufacturing capabilities and a dynamic workforce power local economic growth and contribute to the creation of vibrant communities.
Monday, May 7th – 5:30 p.m. Community Reception at the Cummins Indiana Distribution Headquarters – During an evening reception in downtown Indianapolis, Cummins executives and Board Members will host elected officials and community leaders from across Indiana to meet Ambassadors and discuss how businesses and governments drive global economic and job growth. Remarks by Ambassador Lawler, The Honorable Joe Hogsett, Mayor of Indianapolis and Cummins Chairman and CEO, Tom Linebarger.
Tuesday, May 8th – 8:15 a.m. Indianapolis-Region Business Breakfast – Diplomats will connect with the Indianapolis region’s business community through a breakfast hosted by the Indy Chamber. A panel discussion by executives will introduce key industries in the region and their ties to international commerce, as well as opportunities to build global business connections within and among the region.
