History and mission

US Government Exchange Program Alumni  Association of Georgia (EPAG) is a non governmental, noncommercial entity uniting  alumni of 25 US Government-funded exchange  programs. EPAG currently boasts about 1000 registered members. The major asset of the  Association lies on its members and intellectual  resources. 

EPAG was originally established as the Muskie Alumni Association of Georgia (MAAG) in 2004. MAAG brought together Edmund Muskie Graduate Fellowship Program alumni representing a diverse spectrum of professional fields. Its projects focus on strengthening of the local and international networks, supporting civil society and educational establishments, and promoting volunteerism.

In 2013, to increase sustainability of the association, boost its capacity and increase its impact, the MAAG Board made a strategic decision to expand membership and open the doors to alumni from all other US Government-
funded programs. To reflect this pivotal change, the Association altered its Statutes and changed its name to EPAG. EPAG is a member of the European Network of American Alumni Associations (ENAM).

The main goal of the Association is to build a  professional network of likeminded, western educated professionals. In addition, EPAG provides a forum for intellectual collaboration  and social interaction, enhanced employment and  consultancy opportunities, optimized  opportunities for donor funding through joint  projects, and facilitated access to decision makers  for advocacy purposes.  The mission of EPAG is to engage in a variety of  activities that contribute to sustaining an active  civil society in the country by sharing experience,  consultancy, research, development, advocacy, and promoting community based initiatives.