WORLD AFFAIRS: YOUTH PROGRAMS
Recognized for “connecting countless students to the world,” the President & CEO of World Affairs Lauren Swartz was named 2025’s Inspiring Leader by the Friends of Bodine, on behalf of the William W. Bodine High School for International Affairs.
Lauren accepted the distinguished award on May 19 at the Philadelphia-based high school, which prides itself on curriculum and values that foster future global citizens. Marty Moyers, President of Friends of Bodine, recognized Lauren’s contributions and noted:
“Under your leadership, they’ve [the students] met with world leaders, attended workshops, and speaker events, and embarked on many international adventures. As an inspiring leader, you have helped our students live up to our name—creating Ambassadors for our city and the world.”
The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia has a history that dates back decades with the high school. In 1981, World Affairs partnered with the School District of Philadelphia to establish William W. Bodine High School for International Affairs. Through a focus on humanities and foreign languages, the International Baccalaureate Diploma, and World Affairs’ enhancements on international curriculum, this magnet school offers students a truly global education for students in the Philadelphia region.
In her leadership role at World Affairs—the largest and longest-running international nonprofit in the Philadelphia region—Lauren Swartz helps to connect Philadelphia to the world. From powerful speaker events and international exchanges to youth education, to professional development and curated travel programs, this is where continents, cultures, and ideas connect.