Region VIII Events and Programming
NAFSA Region VIII: Virtual Programming 2021 Schedule
Share ideas, learn from experts in the field, and connect across the region by attending our virtual programming events! Use this calendar to learn more about our upcoming events. Check back often as events are regularly added to the calendar!
September 2021
Black International Educator Reflections: Self Care During Two Pandemics
Hosted by: Christina Thompson (Barcelona SAE), Ebony C. Majeed (Christopher Newport University), Lakendra Brunston-Parker (Virginia Union University)
Date: Wednesday, September 22
Time: 1pm - 2pm EDT
Description: How can we lead as International Educators to rebuild study abroad participation in a hyper racial society during a global pandemic? This session features a panel of Black International Educators with varying roles, discussing (J.E.D.I) justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion from a parallel pandemic perspective (racism and covid-19). Each panelist will share their professional experiences working during these critical times: how we make self-care a priority and share best practices for any institutions with goals to retain BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) staff and students.
- Register: https://tinyurl.com/R8Sept22
- Knowledge Communities: Pan-NAFSA
- Career Level: Early Career, Mid Career, Executive
Maintaining Intercultural Student Engagement
Hosted by: Amy Leap Miller, Sarah Carrier, Audrey E Short (Virginia Commonwealth University)
Date: Tuesday September 28
Time: 12pm - 1pm EDT
Description: Join staff from VCU’s Global Education Office to engage in discussion about successful intercultural virtual engagement opportunities. We will discuss VCU’s Cultural Conversations with International Partners, Study Abroad Focused Freshman Course, and collaborative Black + Abroad programming. We plan to have a robust conversation that illustrates logistical considerations for successful virtual programming and provides attendees with practical takeaways. Let’s come together to share experiences, trade information, and find continual ways to collaborate!
- Register: https://tinyurl.com/R8Sept28
- Knowledge Communities: EA, TLS
- Career Level: Early Career, Mid Career, Executive
October 2021
Check back soon!
November 2021
Careers in International Education: Understanding One’s Path So Far
Hosted by: Sora Friedman (SIT Graduate Institute)
Note: This is a 2-part event. Please register separately for each session you plan to attend (Part 1 and/or Part 2). Part 2 will build on Part 1. Registrants are encouraged to attend both sessions, but not required to do so.
Date:
- Part 1: Wednesday, November 3 (12-1 pm EST)
- Part 2: Wednesday, November 10 (12-1 pm EST)
Description:
- Part 1: The first step in planning one’s future career and professional development is the articulation of one’s path to date. In this session, the first of two, new and mid-level IE professionals will complete a competency assessment and draft a professional autobiography focusing on identity, experiences, skills, and worldview, all features that distinguish individuals looking to enter or advance in the field. The session also will explore the need for an advanced degree (master’s or doctorate) and will introduce professional terminology for use in the creation of compelling cover letters and resumes. (In the second session, participants will learn the steps to take for moving forward in the field.)
- Part 2: In this session, the second of two, new and mid-level IE professionals will create an action plan for a job search or continued professional development. Steps to be reviewed include networking, opportunities for new skills development, conducting effective informational interviews, creating compelling cover letters and resumes, and where to find jobs. (Attendees need not have attended the first session to participate in this second one.)
Registration and Details:
- Register:
- Part 1: https://tinyurl.com/R8November3
- Part 2: https://tinyurl.com/R8November10
- Knowledge Communities: Pan-NAFSA
- Career Level: Early Career, Mid Career
Managing the New Frontiers of Risk in Post-COVID Global Education
Hosted by: Mark Rush (Washington & Lee University) & Sylvia Mitterndoerfer (College of William and Mary)
Date: Thursday, November 18
Time: 12-1 pm EST
Description: Join our presenters for an interactive session discussing how COVID has transformed the portfolios of international education offices and staff. Discussion topics will include: With whom did we manage and assess risk? Special challenges for all constituents (ISS, study abroad, staff, faculty) exposed by the pandemic. New or existing practices that will continue going forward and old ones that won't. Presenters will then invite the attendees to add their comments and contribute to a discussion of lessons learned.
- Register: https://tinyurl.com/R8Novem18
- Knowledge Communities: Pan-NAFSA
- Career Level: Early Career, Mid Career, Executive
December 2021
Check back soon!
NAFSA Region VIII 2021 Virtual Programming Call for Proposals
The NAFSA Region VIII team invites international educators in our region to submit proposals for the region’s robust virtual programming offerings in 2021.
We welcome session proposals in a variety of formats, durations, and themes. Session topics can be KC-specific, across KCs, or general interest.
To learn more about potential topics of interest, the process for submitting a proposal, and more, please visit Virtual Programming Call for Proposals Info.
Presenters do not need to be NAFSA members to present virtual sessions in the region.