Kosovo American Education Fund (KAEF)

The KAEF Alumni gathering took everyone on a walk down memory lane. Vladimir Bogachev and Marc Zielinski, who have supported KAEF alumni through every step of their journeys, shared heartfelt and funny stories from their years with the program. Their reflections sparked a lively exchange, with alumni stepping forward to share their own memorable and humorous experiences from their time in the U.S. As the conversations continued, the gathering set the perfect tone for the celebration on the 15th.  #KAEF20 American Councils for International Education

The KAEF alumni gathering featured sincere remarks from key figures of the KAEF community. Gjeni Shporta, Country Director of American Councils Kosova; Lisa Choate, President and CEO of American Councils; Michael Hora, KAEF Committee U.S. Co-chair; Dale Pfeiffer, KAEF Founder and Committee Member; and Erëza Gjikolli, President of the Alumni Association, highlighted KAEF’s impact and the bonds it has nurtured over the years. Their words reflected KAEF’s mission of creating opportunities, fostering connections, and inspiring positive change. #KAEF20 American Councils for International Education

Celebrating 20 Years of KAEF! On November 14th, KAEF alumni, Committee members, and American Councils staff from Prishtina and D.C. gathered for a warm and meaningful event. The event brought together alumni from across generations who reconnected, reflected, and celebrated two decades of growth and lasting connections. #KAEF20 American Councils for International Education

During the KAEF 20th Anniversary Gala, we had the pleasure of presenting the Corporate Changemaker Award to Meridian Express. This award honors their outstanding vision, contribution, and dedication to supporting Kosovar youth through education. Presented by KAEF Founder Dale Pfeiffer, and Erëza Gjikolli, President of the KAEF Alumni Association, the award was accepted by Agon Gashi, CEO of Meridian Express & SPAR Kosova. In his remarks, Mr. Gashi shared that he was awarded the KAEF scholarship in 2011 but chose not to pursue it, focusing instead on his business ideas. His success story is a testament to his vision and determination, and today, he is a proud supporter of the program. Thank you, Meridian Express, for making a lasting impact through education. #KAEF20 American Councils for International Education

At the KAEF 20th Anniversary Gala, we were honored to present the KAEF Legacy Award to the United States Agency for International Development, #USAIDKosovo. This award recognized USAID’s foundational support in establishing KAEF and its lasting impact on Kosovo’s development. Originally established with funds from USAID, KAEF has since grown into a program supported by individuals and businesses in Kosovo, the Government of Kosovo, American donors, and U.S. universities. The award was presented by KAEF Founder Dale Pfeiffer, and Erëza Gjikolli, President of the KAEF Alumni Association, with Alex Albertine, Director of the Economic Growth Office at USAID Kosovo, accepting on behalf of the organization. Thank you, USAID, for your instrumental role in KAEF’s journey and continued impact. #KAEF20 American Councils for International Education USAID

During the KAEF 20th Anniversary Gala, we were honored to recognize the Behgjet Pacolli Foundation as a KAEF Advocate and the evening's largest sponsor. The award was presented by Erëza Gjikolli, President of the KAEF Alumni Association, and KAEF Founder Dale Pfeiffer, with Argjiro Ramosaj, Head of Business Development at Mabetex Holding, accepting on behalf of the foundation in recognition of their generous support for the program. Our heartfelt thanks to the Behgjet Pacolli Foundation for their invaluable support! #KAEF20 American Councils for International Education

We’re excited to share KAEF: Two Decades of Inspiring Change Makers, a video premiered at our 20th anniversary gala night. Discover the inspiring story of KAEF’s journey, highlighted through achievements, graduations, and gatherings. This video is a tribute to a community dedicated to driving lasting change. A special thanks to Agon Nimani for beautifully capturing the essence of KAEF. We hope you enjoy it! #KAEF20 American Councils for International Education

On Friday, November 15th, we proudly celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Kosovo American Education Fund (KAEF), bringing together over 250 distinguished guests to honor two decades of impact! The evening opened with remarks from Ms. Lisa Choate and Mr. Gjeni Shporta, President & CEO and Kosovo Country Director of American Councils for International Education, who welcomed attendees and highlighted KAEF’s legacy as a powerful force for positive change in Kosovo. They also marked the 50th anniversary of American Councils, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing global understanding through education. Ms. Jeta Zagragja and Mr. Michael E. Hora, Kosovo and U.S. Co-Chairs of the KAEF Committee, emphasized the essential role of the KAEF fellowship program in nurturing Kosovo’s human capital, noting that KAEF alumni continue to drive social and economic progress across the country. Prime Minister Albin Kurti shared his vision for Kosovo’s future, reaffirming his support for initiatives like KAEF that empower young leaders. “Together, we can build a steady pipeline of skilled, innovative leaders who will elevate Kosovo’s economy, governance, and international standing,” he stated. Former President Atifete Jahjaga, an Honorary Member of the KAEF Committee, also addressed attendees, celebrating KAEF as one of the most impactful initiatives for strengthening U.S.-Kosovo relations and investing in Kosovo’s future. American Councils Trustee and KAEF Committee Member Mr. Gazmend Gjonbalaj introduced our keynote speaker, Vice President and General Manager at Microsoft, Ms. Drena Kusari-Berisha, who spoke about the importance of leadership, innovation, and the role of Kosovo’s diaspora in building a strong, interconnected community. The evening closed with a standing ovation for KAEF Founder Mr. Dale Pfeiffer, who expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the ongoing support from KAEF alumni and friends in both the United States and Kosovo. Together with KAEF Alumni Association President Ms. Erëza Gjikolli, Mr. Pfeiffer presented awards to recognize KAEF’s most dedicated supporters and partners. Special thanks to Ms. Rina Bulliqi, KAEF alumna, for her outstanding moderation of the gala, and heartfelt appreciation to everyone who joined us and made this celebration a memorable success!

Tonight, we are honored to welcome Drena Kusari Berisha as the keynote speaker for KAEF's 20th-anniversary gala! As a KAEF board member and the first Kosovar Albanian to earn an MBA from Harvard, Drena has built an impressive career in tech and corporate strategy, holding leadership roles at Microsoft, Bumble, and Lyft. From Gjakova to the global tech industry, she inspires us all with her commitment to empowering women and youth through education and economic opportunity. Join us in celebrating two decades of KAEF and Kosovo's future changemakers! American Councils for International Education #KAEF20

Our final alumni highlight before the big night is Festa Stavileci, Duke University '23, capturing her KAEF experience in 5 words and a soundtrack! 🤗🎶 See you all tomorrow night! #KAEF20