On Friday, November 15, American Councils for International Education in Kosova hosted “Two Decades of Inspiring Change Makers,” a gala evening celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Kosovo American Educational Fund (KAEF). Over 250 guests attended the gala, including Prime Minister Albin Kurti, former President and KAEF Honorary Committee Member Atifete Jahjaga, former Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj, and representatives from the U.S. Embassy and the Albanian Embassy in Kosovo.
In their opening remarks, Lisa Choate, American Councils President & CEO, and Gjeni Shporta, American Councils Country Director in Kosova, welcomed guests to this special occasion. Ms. Choate underscored the importance of educational exchange opportunities as powerful tools for social change and development. Mr. Shporta reflected on milestones as opportunities to honor the past, embrace the present, and envision a brighter future. Together, they also drew attention to another remarkable milestone: the 50th anniversary of American Councils for International Education.
Thanking KAEF contributors over the years, Jeta Zagragja and Michael E. Hora, Kosova and U.S. Co-Chairs of the KAEF Committee, highlighted that KAEF has been instrumental in building human capital that has enriched Kosova’s society in multiple ways, noting that KAEF alumni have become leaders in the community.
“Over the past two decades, this program has enriched Kosovo's socio-economic development and left a legacy felt in every sector of our society," said Ms. Zagragja. “Today, 115 scholarship recipients have returned home, driving progress as ministers, innovators, and civic leaders. Their work proves the immense, rippling power of education.”
The evening’s agenda continued with an address by Prime Minister Albin Kurti. In his remarks, the Prime Minister stated, “Together, we can cultivate a steady pipeline of skilled, innovative leaders to further empower Kosovo’s economy, good governance, and global reputation. We are eager to continue and expand our collaboration with KAEF and American Councils, building on a foundation of excellence.”
Former President 
Jahjaga spoke about the impact educational opportunities have on improving society. “Throughout all these years, KAEF has no story other than that of success. Therefore, I hope that this program continues to grow stronger and have an even greater impact for a more sustainable and democratic future for our country."
Gazmend Gjonbalaj, American Councils Trustee and KAEF Committee Member, introduced the keynote speaker of the evening: Drena Kusari-Berisha, Vice President and General Manager at Microsoft who recently joined the KAEF committee.
“For two decades, this program has opened doors to education, careers, and dreams that once felt distant. As a KAEF board member, celebrating this anniversary reminds me of the countless stories built on the opportunities this program has provided.” said Ms. Kusari-Berisha. She further highlighted that the future of Kosova is not just about achieving new opportunities, it is about shaping the world stage, leveraging the nation's strengths, and realizing its potential.
“With the foundation of resilience, community, and the power of our global diaspora, the question isn’t whether Kosovo will make its mark but how big that mark will be.” Ms. Kusari-Berisha concluded.
During the evening, Dale Pfeiffer, KAEF Founder, and Erëza Gjikolli, President of the KAEF Alumni Association, recognized supporters from the past two decades. Mr. Pfeiffer, who received the KAEF Founder’s Legacy Award, highlighted the ambassadorial role played by all KAEF fellows in representing both Kosova and the United States. Together with Ms. Gjikolli, they acknowledged the following program supporters:
- KAEF Advocate Award - Behgjet Pacolli Foundation
- KAEF Corporate Changemaker Award – Meridian Express
- KAEF Honorary Achievement Award - Michael E. Hora
- KAEF Legacy Award - United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
Closing the event program, Ms. Gjikolli introduced a special guest video to commemorate this important milestone for the program. To the crowd’s applause, President Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States, appeared on screen, delivering an emotional and supportive speech. He touched the gala attendees by stating:
“It will always be one of the great honors of my life that I was able to stand with the people of Kosovo against ethnic cleansing and for freedom. And I am profoundly grateful to organizations like KAEF and its leaders in both Kosovo and the United States, who are continuing to work to build a transparent and accountable democracy, and an inclusive economy. I wish you all a productive event and much continued success for this extraordinary program.”
Twenty-five years ago, President Clinton led the international coalition to intervene in Kosovo through the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and is recognized for his steadfast leadership and support of the continued peace and stability of the entire region.
The KAEF community is grateful to the following generous supporters of the evening: Rockerfeller Brothers Fund, Behgjet Pacolli Foundation, Meridian Express, AnchorzUp, FINCA, Bzzz Entertainment, InterSport Kosova, KOSTT, Recura Financials, Bora, Gjirafa, INSI, KFC, Prishtina Mall, Prishtina Premium, Shkolla.ai, The Hartsdale Group and Wasabi.
All of the evening’s proceeds will benefit the Kosovo American Education Fund.
About KAEF
Originally established with funds from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), KAEF is now primarily funded through the generous support of individuals and businesses in Kosovo, the Government of Kosovo, American donors, and U.S. universities.