Bill Clinton
1993		 "No one who has lived through the second half of the 20th century could possibly be blind to the enormous impact of exchange programs on the future of countries..."
George Bush
1989		 "International exchanges are not a great tide to sweep away all differences, but they will slowly wear away at the obstacles to peace as surely as water wears away a hard stone."
Ronald Reagan
1982		 "There is a flickering spark in us all which, if struck at just the right age...can light the rest of our lives, elevating our ideals, deepening our tolerance and sharpening our appetite for knowledge about the rest of the world. Educational and cultural exchanges...provide a perfect opportunity for this precious spark to grow, making us more sensitive and wiser international citizens through our careers."
Jimmy Carter
1977		 "Only by knowing and understanding each other's experiences can we find common ground on which we can examine and resolve our differences….As the world becomes more and more interdependent, such mutual understanding becomes increasingly vital."
Gerald R. Ford
1976		 "The spirit of seeking understanding through personal contact with people of other nations and other cultures deserves the respect and support of all."
Richard M. Nixon
1970		 "This report...is largely devoted to an aspect of the program too often overlooked...the extraordinary...cooperation and assistance...from United States private groups. This private cooperation...gives the program its essential character and effectiveness."
Lyndon B. Johnson
1966		 "International education cannot be the work of one country. It is the responsibility and promise of all nations. It calls for free exchange and full collaboration….The knowledge of our citizens is one treasure which grows only when it is shared."
John F. Kennedy
1961		 "I am delighted to sign the new Fulbright-Hays Act. This ceremony has historic significance because it marks full recognition by the Congress of the importance of a more comprehensive program of educational and cultural activities as a component of our foreign relations."
Dwight D. Eisenhower
1958		 "[T]he exchange of students…should be vastly expanded.…Information and education are powerful forces in support of peace. Just as war begins in the minds of men, so does peace."
Harry S. Truman
1951		 "This program is vitally important in widening the knowledge and technical ability of the peoples of the twelve participating countries."