In 2011, I became the Editor of the German Fulbright Association’s annual publication, the FRANKly. The Letter from the Editor is copied here, with the full publication accessible at https://www.fulbright-alumni.de/uploads/media/FRANKly22_2011.pdf.
Dear Readers,
It is an utmost honor to present this Silver Anniversary Edition of the FRANKly. To best reflect the atmosphere of the celebratory year, the theme of this edition is designated “Progress”. As a symbol of the tremendous growth that has characterized the last 25 years, extended coverage of the Anniversary PowWow in Berlin serves to exemplify the vast reach and inspiring potential of the alumni network. Continuing in Senator Fulbright’s example, the process of challenging ideas and understanding perspectives to develop solutions for the prominent issues of our time is the ultimate goal, and one that I hope this magazine contributes to. I encourage you, then, to read deeply and engage in the conversation. To ask to represent “Progress” was an ambitious call, but the authors of the thematic articles rose to the occasion to contribute exceptional works, each expounding on the theme in a different way. Jakub Limanowski begins the section with a mindful approach to appraising scientific advances and translating their significance to the public. Andreas Schoberth recounts the establishment of the Association’s website as one who participated in its founding. Julian Fuchs and Matthias Pauthner jointly present an article on the strength of cooperative efforts, using the upheaval in the Middle East as a poignant and timely example. Finally, Özden Sevimli, as a first-generation immigrant, offers a novel perspective to understanding the process of cultural integration. In addition to the Association’s annual national events, some members attended events hosted by the American Fulbright Alumni Association in Buenos Aires and the German-American Fulbright Commission in Berlin, as well as smaller gatherings of Fulbright leaders in Taiwan and Cambodia. Their accounts provide an excellent view of the international network that continues to foster cross-cultural discussion and growth. Lastly, the regional chapter reports demonstrate the vivacity and diversity of the activities of the rich German alumni network.
Now, I am happy to shift the focus toward thanking those who truly deserve the credit for this publication: the authors, photographers, and coordinators. Their thoughtfulness confirms the tradition of keen awareness and limitless ambition for which this Association so proudly stands. Behind the scenes was Andreas Schoberth when considerate editing was much appreciated, as well as Lisa McMahan, Thomas Wagner, Bryan Baker, and Barbara Weiten. Of course, the board was graciously helpful, especially Benjamin, Susanne, and Timo, who served as liaisons for much material. This page is not large enough to fully describe how grateful I am to Thomas Wagner, in particular, for his kind assistance and professional advice throughout the long development of this magazine. In the later stages, Astrid Weingarten has shown that she is as unbelievably talented in graphic design as she is in lending instruction, having patiently trained this scientist to be an editor. As well, I would not be here if it weren’t for Julia Mews, who first proposed that I become involved. This magazine owes its
current, high standard to her, and it has been a privilege to follow in her example. Lastly, I cannot help but share how lucky I am to have the immeasurable support of my family, especially my mom, whose boundless care serves as proof that there is no greater achievement than helping others and nourishing community. I dedicate my efforts in gratitude to her.
To conclude, for the sake of advancing the aims of the Association to benefit our global society, may we be reminded of Ambassador Murphy’s compelling statement during the Berlin Seminar: “This century brings much change, but the question is whether that will mean progress or not.”
With great hope for our shared future,
Julianne McCall
Heidelberg, October 2011
Julianne McCall 