JEDDAH, 16 January 2004 — There is “tremendous interest” among Saudi students to pursue higher studies in the United States, US Consul General Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley says.
“There is a lot of interest among young Saudis to study in the United States. I want all students who have an interest in studying in the United States to go there,” she said at the annual press barbeque on Wednesday night.
She introduced Hana Sami-Habbal, the consulate’s new educational advisor, and said: “Hana will be available to advise residents of the Kingdom on how they can study in the United States. She has a library full of resources that she shares with anyone who visits her,” Gina said.
Announcing some official movements, she said Public Affairs officer Bob Keith, who has been here for two years expanding and improving the consulate’s public affairs activities with the local community, is moving on to Riyadh where he will be the information officer at the US Embassy.
“So, although he is changing cities, the press will still work closely with him when it needs information,” she said. Gina welcomed Lisa Swenarski who is succeeding Bob Keith here.
“Lisa looks forward to working with the press and to hearing its ideas on how we can support the journalism profession here in the Western Province,” the consul general said.
In a tribute to the press, Gina said a free and responsible press was key to the functioning of society. “I emphasize free and responsible because both are so crucial. A responsible press can hold government and private sector leaders accountable for their actions. At the same time, an irresponsible press can literally result in the deaths of innocent people.”
Referring to elections at the Saudi Journalists Association and its goals to seek representation for Saudi journalists and increase training opportunities, Gina said: “You can certainly count on the US Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah to support you in those efforts.
Gina also reintroduced the consulate’s public affairs staff: Hatem Korabi, information assistant; Ali Ghadban, cultural assistant; and Nabilah Dato, administrative assistant. Carol Kalin, who has newly assumed charge as public affairs officer at the US Embassy in Riyadh, spoke about her responsibilities.
