The Birth of FUSIA

During the Northeast’s infamous 2003 blackout, FUSIA's founder, Elizabeth Kay, encountered two stranded interns from overseas who needed local assistance. That moment sparked her interest in international exchange. A follow-up conversation with a university principal abroad led to an invitation to take on students, laying the groundwork for what would become FUSIA’s mission.

Since 2003, Elizabeth has hosted interns every summer. In 2008, she launched a formal internship program in New York City, and in 2014, FUSIA became an official J-1 Intern visa sponsor.

Today, FUSIA maintains a strong alumni network and trusted partnerships with top universities across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and beyond, working with host organizations of all sizes and sectors across the US to provide structured, impactful exchange experiences.

About Us > History & Milestones

Milestones

FUSIA’s BridgeUSA-CCIP Internships have achieved both organizational and cultural success. Each year, the program continues to reach new milestones.

2008
FUSIA brought 78 students from Asia to intern with 11 hosts across New York and New Jersey, establishing a foundation for cross-cultural exchange and civic learning.
2009
Participation grew to 100 students and 29 hosts. FUSIA launched “Taste of Harlem,” an event exploring Harlem’s history, literature, music, food, and dance.
2010
With 130 participants from 7 partner universities, FUSIA held its first annual Recognition Ceremony at the Cornell Club, linking students with New York’s local community.
2011
The program expanded to 135 students and 37 hosts. On August 16, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer declared “Cross Cultural Internship Day” in Manhattan.
2012
FUSIA welcomed 142 students and received its first US Senate proclamation from Senator Charles Schumer, marking its growing recognition at the federal level.
2013
FUSIA received the Mets’ Spirit Award and a second city proclamation. It was officially designated as a J-1 Intern visa sponsor later that year.
2014
In its first year of sponsorship, FUSIA selected 69 students from 1,079 applicants. Despite operating under a reduced quota, the program maintained a high standard.
2015
FUSIA continued to prioritize quality, selecting 71 students from 1,058 applicants and matching them with meaningful placements in NYC.
2016
Participation reached 75 students from 985 applicants. Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer declared July 5 “CCIP Appreciation Day,” honoring FUSIA’s decade of impact.
2017
With 1,355 applicants, FUSIA selected 74 high-potential students. July 17 was declared “CCIP Appreciation Day” for the fourth time by the Manhattan Borough President.
2018
FUSIA celebrated its 10th anniversary at Citi Field with 130 alumni, hosts, and officials. Gale Brewer issued a fifth city proclamation recognizing its cultural impact.
2019
With 70+ interns across two sessions and the highest number of hosts to date, FUSIA earned its sixth consecutive proclamation for cultural exchange leadership.
2020
Despite COVID disruptions, FUSIA ran a limited program with HKU and launched NYEP earlier in the year, continuing its mission during global uncertainty.
2021
Programs were paused due to the pandemic. FUSIA used the time to revamp its digital platform and launched a redesigned website by year-end.
2022
As international travel resumed, FUSIA introduced flexible, self-placed programs that retained its core values while adapting to global shifts.
2023
FUSIA resumed full-placement programs in NYC during both summer and winter, offering a structured and immersive experience for the next generation of participants.
2024
The annual celebration moved to Fraunces Tavern on Wall Street. FUSIA received over 10 government commendations recognizing its leadership in international exchange.
2025
FUSIA received designation for all 10 J-1 occupational categories, extended placements to Boston and DC, and held its annual celebration on July 15 at Neir’s Tavern following the return of the White House visit.