Michelle Kwan Heading to Russia, Takes Second Trip as an American Public Diplomacy Envoy Options

[SAW]

Michelle Kwan Heading to Russia

Michelle Kwan, the first U.S. Department of State American Public Diplomacy Envoy, departs today, June 13, for Russia to visit Moscow, Volgograd and Elista.

This is her second trip as an American Public Diplomacy Envoy under the auspices of the Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs following her highly successful trip to China in January 2007. As an American Public Diplomacy Envoy, Kwan promotes cross-cultural dialogue with international youth and increases understanding of America by sharing her story and life experiences.

Kwan’s activities in Russia will help commemorate the 200th anniversary of U.S.–Russia diplomatic relations being celebrated this year, and underscores the importance of sports diplomacy.

During her visit to Russia, she will meet with students learning English in an ECA-sponsored English language enhancement program for Russian youth in Kalmykia, connect with aspiring student entrepreneurs working on Junior Achievement projects, and share her experiences with women leaders as well as Russian athletes.

Kwan is the most decorated lady in the history of U.S. Figure Skating. She is a nine-time U.S. ladies champion, which ties her with the legendary Maribel Vinson Owen for most ladies titles in U.S. Figure Skating history. Kwan also is a five-time World champion and a two-time Olympic medalist. She has not competed the last two seasons and for the first time in many years did not tour this spring with Champions on Ice (she is a full-time student at the University of Denver).

While Kwan has not officially announced her retirement, it seems unlikely she will return to the ice as a competitive skater.