On October 1, 1999, the United States Information Agency (USIA) was consolidated into the U.S. Department of State. The Program Designation Branch was transferred from the Office of the General Counsel to the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) which falls under the Under Secretary of Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs.
 

The  State Department - Exchange Visitor Program Designation Staff oversees the entire student exchange industry.  To that end, they have established Regulations governing Secondary School Exchange Visitor Programs (those that are designated to issue DS-2019 Forms).

In other words, The State Department is the "big brother" in the student exchange industry.  U.S. programs treasure their designation as without it, they are not authorized to issue DS-2019 Forms necessary for a foreign exchange student to secure the J-1 VISA in their home country.  Without the ability to issue this form, a program cannot sponsor students!  If anyone, a student, a host family, a school or a volunteer feels that the program with which they're associated is not in compliance with all the "rules and regulations,"  the State Department is the place to contact!  Below is their contact information.
 

United States Department of State
Office of Exchange Coordination and Designation
ECA/EC/ECD - SA-44, Room 734
301 4th Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20547

voice: (202-203-5029)
fax: (202-203-5087)

CLICK HERE for more contact information