Selected Events 2008        

Reaching Out To Leipzig’s Famous Thomas School 

Mark Scheland surrounded by Thomaner students

May 20 and May 23, 2008. As part of the “Meet US” program, Consul General Mark Scheland encountered a 4th grade class of the Thomasschule, one of the oldest schools in Germany and internationally known for its Thomaner boys choir. Scheland read from the delightfully illustrated children’s book, “The Gardener” by American author Sarah Stewart to make the youngsters aware of America’s role and the life of a diplomat. Among the 20 students, all 15 of the boys in the class were members of the choir. The students were all very receptive to the reading and Scheland’s stories about the places he and his family have lived. On May 23, Consul for Public Affairs Mark Wenig visited the school to speak to over 100 advanced English students. Opening with an explanation of his role at the Consulate and an overview of his career, Wenig went on to summarize the upcoming U.S. presidential election, key national issues, the candidates’ strategies and prospects, and the expectations of foreign publics.