Since 2005, the former Governor of Iowa has mailed letters to People to People Student Ambassadors congratulating them on being invited to be Student Ambassadors. In 2010, the People to People Ambassador Program worked directly with the office of the Governor to create a letter that invited students to participate in our program.
This letter came under scrutiny this year by the Iowa Attorney General’s office after some recipients questioned whether the Governor knew about the letter.
The Governor’s office was aware of the letter and it is unfortunate that our letters may have been misconstrued, as that was never our intent. We want to dispel any misguided notions in regard to our invitation processes.
- People to People Ambassador Programs has been selected by People to People International to market and operate the international travel opportunities known as Student Ambassador, Leadership Ambassador, Sports Ambassador and Citizen Ambassador.
- People to People Ambassador Programs and People to People International have worked together in this capacity for nearly 50 years.
- People to People Ambassador Programs receives the names of students from several sources:
- Nominations from teachers, educators, parents and past student participants
- These nominations are based on leadership potential, interest in international affairs and displayed character traits
- Students who are nominated to the People to People Ambassador Program by a teacher, educator, parent or past student participant receive invitations stating they were nominated. Only nominated students receive these letters.
- On Line
- Interested students and parents may request information through our website
- Academic Organizations and Strategic Partners
- AAU, AYSO, and The College Board are among our partners
- Pre Qualified Lists
- Regardless of how a student is invited to apply, all Student Ambassador Candidates must complete three letters of recommendation, a short essay questionnaire and a personal interview. Over our nearly 50 year history, the application process has always included these steps. Parents often tell us the application and interview process provided value and development opportunities for their child.
