I cannot express the immeasurable excitement I felt after being appointed by the White House to serve as the United States Commissioner General of the USA Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. This role is one I consider to be the best job in the entire State Department.
I led a talented team to showcase American culture, values, and technology to a global audience. This was such a transformative experience that I will never forget – and I am thrilled to share my thoughts as Former Commissioner General with you all.
My Experience
During my time at the Expo, I was able to engage with innovative leaders spanning 192 countries at what was the biggest event ever in the Middle East — where two-thirds of the world’s population could visit in a single flight. This incredible event was visited by 24 million people in just six months. I’ve never been more proud of America or grateful to be a U.S. citizen.
Pavilions
I visited each of the 192 country pavilions and had the opportunity to discuss politics, policies, technologies, and partnerships. Each nation was sincere in its intentions and plans for the future and was represented by folks from every ethnicity, background, and religion that were in so many ways just like me.
Leaders
The Expo’s core message of “Connecting Minds and Creating the Future” with a sub-focus on sustainability, mobility, and opportunity reflected the priceless values and goals of so many innovative leaders. We collaborated together as colleagues, explorers, and adventurers in each other’s cultures and values in a hopeful, diplomatic spirit.