Episode Details

In this episode of The Brief, we sit down with Ana Aldridge, Chair of the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, to discuss Corpus Christi’s sister city connection with Agen, France.

From culinary education and international exchange to business partnerships, cultural hospitality, and citizen diplomacy, Ana shares highlights from her recent trip to the south of France with Del Mar College culinary students. She explains how the Sister Cities program creates meaningful opportunities for students, strengthens global relationships, and helps represent Corpus Christi beyond our region.

We dive into what the trip looked like for the Del Mar students, how they trained in French culinary classrooms and restaurants, and why experiencing another country’s food, culture, and business community matters. Ana also shares stories from Agen’s farms, restaurants, Chamber of Commerce, and local leaders, showing how international relationships can create lasting educational and economic connections.

Beyond the culinary experience, this episode highlights the importance of citizen diplomacy, cultural exchange, and building bridges between communities across the world.

Topics include:

• Corpus Christi’s sister city relationship with Agen, France
• How Del Mar College culinary students participated in the exchange
• Why citizen diplomacy matters
• The role of food, culture, and hospitality in international partnerships
• What students experienced in French classrooms and restaurants
• How Agen’s Chamber of Commerce connects business, industry, and workforce training
• The value of creating future exchange opportunities
• How global relationships help strengthen local communities

The Brief is where policy meets business from City Hall to the state Capitol to Washington, D.C. with a focus on jobs, infrastructure, and opportunity in Corpus Christi.

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