Alexander P. Durtka, Jr.
Why I Am Running for the Board of Directors
Citizen diplomacy is the concept that ordinary individuals can shape international relations through person-to-person interactions, fostering cross-cultural understanding, trust, and peace. It involves unofficial efforts by citizens, acting as ambassadors to bridge gaps between nations, especially during these times of political tension.
Sister Cities International is just such an organization that brings together individuals who are like minded to pursue and promote the goal of peace and understanding. Although, SCI is the mantra of the organization, it is only through the efforts of dedicated and committed individuals that its goals are realized.
Successful and long standing relationship are only accomplished by individuals who cross boundaries and nurture long standing relationships, as we often say one handshake at a time. At this time of world disarray, we also need to network, to coalesce, join and work with other organizations with similar ideals and goals to maximize our efforts.
We as an organization need to recognize not only the cities but more importantly and tangibly acknowledge the countless local volunteers, state and country representatives, board members, and supporters who provide the foundation, on which these relationships are based, and by which the goal of peace and understanding, is realized.
Bio
Alexander P. Durtka, Jr., is the recent past President and CEO of the International Institute of Wisconsin. He continues to be actively involved is his communities – locally, nationally, and internationally. He currently serves as the SCI Wisconsin State Representative and the Japan Country Representative, and as Secretary of Wisconsin’s Sister State Relationship with Chiba, Japan. He has also served as president of Japan-American Society-Wisconsin, a Commissioner with U.S. UNESCO Commission, Foundation Chair of the International Festivals and Events Association, Board Chair of Global Ties U.S. and continues as a member of its Advisory Council, and North American Representative and Cultural Commission Chair of the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts.
Over the past 50 years he has traveled extensively from Japan to Canada, Estonia to Russia, and Egypt to Peru giving presentations on a variety of topics including diversity and the safeguarding and transmission of intangible cultural heritage. A recipient of numerous awards: Lifetime Achievement Award, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, WI, Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Commendation; and the Order of the Rising Sun, from the Emperor of Japan – for his contribution to the promotion of Japan-United States relations. He also is the recent recipient of awards from the Rotary Alaska E-Club International for volunteer service and the SCI Ruth Hashimoto Award for lifetime service, diplomacy and distinguished achievement.
He holds a number of degrees including an Honorary Doctorate, Master degrees in Social Work and Divinity and Certification as a Festival and Event Executive.
Skills
Having served as President/CEO and board member of numerous international, national and local organizations, I would bring all my administrative, volunteer and international experience to the SCI Board. Based on my experience in networking and building coalitions, I would promote the cooperation/networking with organizations with compatible objectives and promote the assessment and forecasting of current and future political, funding and social trends, to be proactive rather than reactive.