A Message from the Society’s President, Amb. (ret.) Michael Klecheski

Dear members and friends of The Mongolia Society,

The Mongolia Society had another highly productive year, continuing to carry out the core mission it has pursued effectively for over six decades: advancing the study of Mongolia, notably its history, language and culture. In an unusually challenging period for scholarly institutions, however, the Society needs your support more than ever, making this year’s appeal for contributions particularly important.

As always, the Society’s annual meeting was a highlight of the past year, and this year, in-person and online participation was higher than it has been in recent memory. For the first time, the Society brought together all the former U.S. ambassadors to Mongolia to discuss their ambassadorships and the broader bilateral relationship. The transcript of that panel, when completed, should prove invaluable for scholars and policymakers. The three other panels also offered fascinating presentations on the changing Mongolian language, premodern connections and modern influences on Mongolia and its place in the world. A session at George Washington University focused on two decades of Smithsonian research in Mongolia. Mongolian Ambassador Batbayar Ulziidelger graciously hosted a reception for all the meeting participants.

Another highlight of the year was our publication of Occasional Paper 30, Reflections on the Checkered Century: The Memoirs of a Mongolian Ambassador, by Ambassador Uriankhan Jargalsaikhan. It is an interesting read, full of insights on recent Mongolian history and diplomacy. You can order your copy from our website (mongoliasociety.org) or by contacting the Mongolia Society office (monsoc@iu.edu).

Following the annual meeting, the Society began stepping up its social media presence. We hope that you will follow our Facebook and Instagram pages.

To accomplish its mission, the Society depends heavily on dues and donations. I do hope you will contribute again this year, as well as renewing your dues and considering putting the Society in your will.

We very much hope for your support!

Michael Klecheski Ambassador (ret.), President, The Mongolia Society