FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ICLS President Karen Decker Receives Prestigious Bill Graeper Award for Global Leadership in the Language Industry
Washington, D.C. — 09/15/2025 — The International Center for Language Studies (ICLS) is proud to announce that its president, Karen Decker, has been honored with the 2025 William “Bill” Graeper Award by the Association of Language Companies (ALC). This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional service, mentorship, and global leadership in advancing the language industry.
Decker, who also served as the elected president of the ALC from 2023 to 2025, was recognized for her tireless advocacy, her role in strengthening professional standards, and her unwavering commitment to mentoring the next generation of language company leaders.
The Bill Graeper Award, established in 2017, honors the legacy of William “Bill” Graeper, a widely respected leader and mentor in the language industry. Past recipients include pioneers in interpretation, translation, and language access who have elevated the industry through advocacy, innovation, and service.
“We are proud to share that our very own Karen Decker, President of ICLS, has completed her term as President of the Association of Language Companies (ALC).
During her tenure, Karen championed advocacy for the language services industry, strengthened collaboration among member companies, and advanced initiatives that continue to shape our profession.
"The baton now passes to Joshua Pennise, who will build on this momentum as the new President of ALC.”
The ALC announced in an Instagram Post.
Decker’s recognition comes after more than two decades of leadership at ICLS, where she has guided the organization’s growth from a Washington, D.C.–based language school into a globally respected institution serving government agencies, corporations, and thousands of students worldwide. She has been a champion for cross-cultural education, advocating that language learning is not only an academic pursuit but also a bridge to connection, diplomacy, and opportunity.
About ICLS
Founded in 1966, the International Center for Language Studies (ICLS) provides intensive English programs, foreign language instruction in more than 85 languages, and professional skills training to individuals, corporations, nonprofits, and U.S. government clients. With a student-centered mission, ICLS enables learners to succeed in a global environment by developing authentic language use and cultural competence
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