01/08/2026
On August 1, 2026, we mark a truly remarkable milestone: 80 years since President Harry S. Truman signed the Fulbright Act into law on August 1, 1946, establishing what would become the world's most prestigious international educational and cultural exchange program.
Inspired by the vision of Senator J. William Fulbright, the Act was founded on a powerful conviction—that greater understanding between people and nations is one of the surest paths to lasting peace. By promoting the exchange of students, scholars, researchers, teachers, artists, and professionals, Senator Fulbright believed that education and dialogue could bridge differences and strengthen international cooperation. Eight decades later, that vision remains as relevant as ever.
Over the past 80 years, the Fulbright Program has connected hundreds of thousands of participants across the globe, fostering academic excellence, innovation, leadership, and lifelong partnerships. Today, Fulbright commissions and foundations operate in 49 countries, with many more participating through bilateral agreements.
Fulbright Slovakia, established in 1994, is the most recently established Fulbright Commission in the global network. While the newest member of the Fulbright Commission family, it proudly carries forward the same enduring mission of promoting mutual understanding between the people of the United States and Slovakia through educational and cultural exchange.
In this milestone year, we are also proud to celebrate an important achievement at home: Fulbright Slovakia has now surpassed 900 Slovak and American participants, whose exchanges have strengthened institutions, advanced research, enriched classrooms, and built lasting friendships between our two countries.
As we commemorate the signing of the Fulbright Act and 80 years of its extraordinary legacy, we extend our gratitude to our alumni, partners, universities, supporters, and friends who continue to bring Senator Fulbright's vision to life every day.
