New Bridge Program

Alumni-Activities

The New Bridge Program aims to engage participants in the transatlantic dialogue over the long term. Therefore, after completing the program, Fellows become part of an active alumni network. This network offers a wide range of opportunities for continued engagement in the transatlantic community and with the Atlantik-Brücke.
New Bridge Program

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An annual fully funded alumni conference helps maintain long-term engagement with the program, strengthen connections among alumni, and provide further insights into transatlantic issues. Virtual events and activities throughout the year also support sustainable networking structures. In addition to digital events, alumni are involved in Atlantik-Brücke’s regular activities, for example as participants in our events, speakers at our programs, or contributors to our publications.

 

“Participation in the New Bridge program has allowed me to build a cohort of colleagues across the Atlantic. I am now part of an extended family of leaders who are invested in building transatlantic relationships through authentic friendships rooted in our common history, hopeful ideals for our futures, and a shared set of democratic values.”

Kelly Carter – New Bridge Alumna, NBP to GER Cohort #1

In addition, alumni are actively involved in the ongoing work of the New Bridge Program, allowing them to use their experience and expertise to positively shape the program for future cohorts. Upon completing the program, all alumni receive the right to nominate new candidates, enabling them to have a lasting impact on the composition of the transatlantic community and create new connections within their own communities. Alumni also support the selection committee throughout the application and selection process, as well as in onboarding new Fellows.

In 2022, the New Bridge alumni initiated the formation of an Alumni Council. Its mission is to strengthen community among New Bridge Fellows, deepen relationships with Atlantik-Brücke, and promote transatlantic partnerships. To reach these goals, three different committees covering the areas of communication, fellow relations, and professional development have been created. The Council has initiated a wide range of projects, including the “Buddy Program”, which connects new fellows with alumni who provide support before, during, and after the trip.

Articles

23.09.2026

Local government is where trust in democracy is earned or lost

Democracy goes far beyond federal politics – it is enacted in county councils, municipal utilities and public reading rooms. Three New Bridge Alumni share case studies of local democracy in action, from the role of public libraries over Spandau's city council to local energy initiatives.
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12.12.2025

„The New Bridge Program literally changed my life“

New Bridge Alumni share how the program has influenced their professional lives and personal development and what insights they gained from the alumni conference specifically.
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26.11.2025

Reckoning With a Restless World: Populism, Power, and the U.S.–German Alliance

An analysis of the US–German relationship through the lens of the New Bridge Alumni conference's learnings.
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