New York, NY, June 23, 2025
AFS-USA, the largest partner in a worldwide network of non-profit, volunteer-based international education organizations, has welcomed four new members to its Board of Directors and announced a new Board Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer during its June meeting.
“Our mission has always centered on building meaningful connections across cultures and communities,” said Tara Hofmann, President & CEO of AFS-USA. “As we continue that work, we are also developing new strategies to extend our impact within the United States—exploring innovative ways to foster mutual understanding and strengthen connections with the many communities that shape our country. From the students we send and welcome to the families, schools, and volunteers who make it all possible, every part of the AFS-USA community plays a role in this effort.”
New Board Members
- Ian Hepworth (Alumnus, U.S. to Chile) was most recently VP of Operations at Trove, an e-commerce company supporting resale programs for major brands. He has also served as a host sibling to two AFS exchange students.
- Paul Primak has retired from his role as Director of International Programs for the Oregon University System. He continues to serve as a volunteer with American Councils, the Ford Family Foundation, and the Commission for English Language Programs, and is an active AFS-USA volunteer in his community.
- Patti Rounsevell (Alumna, U.S. to Costa Rica) is the National Council Chair appointed to the Board. She is the owner of ElderServices LLC, which provides emotional and logistical support to clients. She has been an AFS host sibling, host parent, and volunteer.
- Ann Sweet is a Registered Dental Hygienist and former Chair of the AFS-USA National Council of Volunteers. She has also served as an AFS host parent and local volunteer.
Newly Elected Officers of the Board
- Chair: John Bacon (Alumnus, U.S. to Belgium), Chief Development Officer for Planned Giving at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. He previously served as Vice Chair of the AFS-USA Board.
- Vice Chair: Kelly McFarland Stratman (Alumna, U.S. to Denmark), Executive Director of the National Council for the Social Studies.
- Secretary: Madelyn White (Alumna, U.S. to Belgium & France), Counsel at Carter Ledyard & Milburn in New York City.
- Treasurer: Karen Treber, General Counsel at Salisbury University in Maryland, and an AFS host family and volunteer.
We also want to thank outgoing Board members Wendy Kuran, Peter Robinson and Patrick Moon who made significant contributions during their tenure.
Collectively, the Board will work alongside AFS-USA leadership to advance the organization’s strategic priorities: strengthening and supporting a nationwide network of volunteers; expanding access to study abroad through scholarships and fundraising; and providing U.S. educators with global learning tools for the classroom.
“As we continue to grow our impact both globally and here at home, the leadership of our Board and the strength of our community will guide us,” added Hofmann. “Together, we are building a future where every young person has the opportunity to connect, learn, and lead with empathy in an increasingly interconnected world.”