Three Russian leaders participating in the Open World Program spent June 9 to June 17 in Reno and Carson City examining accountable governance and economic development. The Northern Nevada International Center, an affiliate of the University of Nevada Reno, hosted the delegation.

The Open World Program, which is the only exchange program in the U.S. legislative branch, is designed to bring young leaders from Russia and other Eurasian over to the U.S. to experience American democracy and civil society first hand.

While they were in Reno and Carson City, the delegates meet with local officials, university academics, and students as well as Alison Gaulden, Vice Chair of the Washoe County Democratic Party, and Heidi Smith, Chairperson of the Washoe County Republican Central Committee.

The delegation also meet with state and tribal officials and agencies, including Chief Deputy Attorney General Wayne Howle of the Nevada Attorney General's Office and Willette Smith, Department of Taxation or the Reno Sparks Indian Colony.  

In addition, the delegation also meet with University of Nevada Professor Warren Lerude, Pulitzer Prize winner and Former editor, publisher and president of Reno Evening Gazette and Nevada State Journal, to discuss the role of public opinion in politics and governance and Mass media role in politics, campaigns and elections.

Homestays allowed the Russian delegates to live with local Nevada families and experience American family life.

They also took part in several cultural and community activities, including a trip to scenic Lake Tahoe and the historic Virginia City Cultural Center.