Women Ambassadors Reception at Meridian International Center

On April 10, Meridian International Center, DLA Piper, and Visa co-hosted an event honoring women ambassadors to the United States. Nine women ambassadors from around the world as well as members of the Washington business, NGO, and academic communities had the opportunity to engage with one another and build relationships across different sectors.

After welcoming the distinguished guests, Ambassador Stuart Holliday, President and CEO of Meridian International Center, introduced Ambassador Capricia Penavic Marshall, Chief of Protocol of the United States, who offered insightful remarks on the growing presence of women diplomats in global leadership positions. Their influence has played a valuable role in the advancement of women’s leadership and empowerment worldwide. Following Ambassador Marshall, Governor James J. Blanchard, Chairman, Meridian Board of Trustees and Partner at DLA Piper, commented on the growing impact and reach of the Meridian Council on Women’s Leadership. Participants also heard from John Phipps, Senior Director of Global Government Relations at VISA and Michele Manatt, Chair of the Meridian Council on Women’s Leadership and Member of Meridian’s Board of Trustees, who acknowledged, welcomed, and thanked each of the women ambassadors who were present. Ambassadors from Cape Verde, Costa Rica, Finland, Mozambique, Oman, Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia and the African Union were in attendance.