CDDF Kickoff Event (2025)
Our inaugural event will introduce CDDF’s mission, initiatives, and future projects while bringing together cultural leaders, diplomats, and advocates for an evening of dialogue, networking, and artistic expression.
📅 Date: March 28, 2025
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: George Mason University, Arlington Campus, Van Metre Hall, Room 308
Event Highlights
🎤 Welcome Remarks (5:00 PM – 5:15 PM)
Leyla Mammadli, Chair of CDDF – Opening remarks on the role of cultural diplomacy in global development.
🎙️ Keynote Addresses (5:15 PM – 6:00 PM)
- Diana Cohen Altman – CEO, Karabakh Foundation & CDDF Advisory Board Member
- Paul Michael Taylor, Ph.D. – Director, Asian Cultural History Program, Smithsonian Institution
- Janine Ali – CEO, Blinq Cultural Exchange for Diplomats
- Gul Mescioglu Gurscioglu Gur – Senior Professorial Lecturer
- Topics: “How Important Peacebuilding is Today” & “Promoting Diversity through Cultural Initiatives”
🗣️ Panel Discussion (6:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Theme: “Cultural Exchange and Policy Innovation: Strategies for Development”
🔹 Moderator: Leyla Mammadli
🔹 Panelists:
- Gul Mescioglu Gurscioglu Gur
- Diana Cohen Altman
- Additional invited professors
🤝 Networking Dinner (7:00 PM – 7:30 PM)
Enjoy a meal and engage with experts and peers.
📢 Closing Remarks (8:00 PM – 8:30 PM)
Leyla Mammadli – Summary and next steps for collaboration. 🎶 Cultural Showcase & Reception (8:15 PM – 9:00 PM)
Experience performances by cultural groups, music, and light refreshments.