This week, we’re highlighting how in volatile regions, USAID works side-by-side with the military, playing a critical role in our nation’s effort to stabilize countries, and build responsive local governance. Development efforts can also prevent conflict from occurring and future military involvement by helping countries become more stable, prosperous and less prone to violent extremism. […]
For the past 50 years, USAID and a growing number of partners have been working to improve the quality of education in developing countries with an emphasis on boosting child literacy. In February of 2011, USAID launched its evidence-based education strategy – shifting the focus of global education toward achieving real results in childhood literacy, higher […]
Over the past few months, this blog has hosted a series of posts to highlight five decades of USAID’s history. While 50 years of saving and improving lives is quite an accomplishment, let us step back and consider another significant milestone achieved this year. On June 2, USAID’s mission in Mongolia celebrated its 20th year of […]
Featured in the 1986 December edition of Frontlines “No other program rivals AID’s global accomplishments. Twenty-five years have given us confidence in people in less developed countries and in our ability to help them solve their problems and live better lives,” Administrator Peter McPherson declared before a National Press Club audience in Washington, D.C., Nov. […]
President Kennedy’s remarks to Mission Directors and Deputy Mission Directors from the Agency for International Development from the Rose Garden of the White House June 8th, 1962. Well I want to – I’m impressed by – I wish all of our fellow Americans could listen to the litany of the countries to which you are […]
President Obama isn’t the only one turning 50 this year. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) was born out of a spirit of progress, innovation and a reflection of Americans’ values, character and fundamental belief in doing the right thing. Since 1961, USAID has been a quiet force, fostering a more peaceful and secure […]
For the past few months we’ve highlighted key moments, major accomplishments, and the work of development professionals to illustrate some of USAID’s efforts over the past 50 years. Through interviews, Q&A, personal narratives, and posts penned by guest bloggers, we’ve shared stories about USAID’s history from nearly every perspective and point of view. Today, we’d […]
Friday afternoon, Diana Putman vowed to protect the constitution of the United States against all enemies as she accepted her new assignment as the Mission Director for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Previously, Diana served as the Humanitarian and Health Activities Branch Chief at the U.S. Africa Command, where she has served since August […]
In the quiet basement of USAID’s headquarters, towards the end of a winding hallway, USAID’s image library sits among meeting rooms and storage space. Sturdy, tightly packed boxes line the walls of this secured space. The files within contain official portraits and snapshots that help illustrate the Agency’s history with focal points that vary by […]
Last September USAID staff members decided to put up a 50th anniversary banner outside the building. We talked excitedly about size, shape, colors, style, and placement. We were kids again, planning what we thought would be an easy deliverable to honor 50 years of service around the world. Ten months later we watched excitedly, emotionally, […]
