Regional Seminar in Santa Clara Examines Wellbeing, Advocacy, and the Future of Education Abroad

On Friday, January 30, education abroad professionals gathered at Santa Clara University for a day‑long Regional Seminar focused on the well‑being of students and practitioners, strategic advocacy, and the changing landscape of education abroad.

Co‑hosted by Santa Clara University and The Forum on Education Abroad, the event brought together a range of voices from public and private institutions, community colleges, education abroad providers, and other organizations across the region. Against a backdrop of funding cuts, shifting priorities, and global mobility challenges, participants discussed how global events and geopolitical tensions are shaping both the education abroad experience and the needs of those who support it.

Susan Popko, Ed.D., Associate Provost for International Programs at Santa Clara University, opened the seminar by outlining the current pressures on education abroad and how they affect professionals and students in the region. Her introduction set the tone for reflection on how institutional priorities and student needs intersect in today’s complex landscape.

Following her remarks, the seminar continued with sessions such as:

• Future‑Ready Programs Prioritize Well‑Being
• Equipping the Next Generation: Tools for Fostering Global Learning and Dialogue When Tensions Are High
• Strategic Advocacy for Education Abroad: Engaging Internal and External Stakeholders

Well‑being served as a central theme throughout the day, shaping conversations about how to support students as they navigate unfamiliar academic systems, cultural settings, and geopolitical contexts through student‑centered and trauma‑informed approaches. The group examined ways to help learners meet challenges that foster growth while ensuring they have strong structures of care and support.

Building on this foundation, the seminar also highlighted the need to prepare both students and practitioners for productive dialogue during tense or uncertain moments. Participants explored strategies for communicating across differing perspectives, upholding intellectual diversity and academic freedom, and strengthening resilience within learning environments shaped by change.

The day concluded with a forward‑looking discussion on advocacy, offering practical language and strategies for engaging internal and external stakeholders. Those in attendance left the Regional Seminar with new perspectives, actionable ideas, and stronger connections to support their work in education abroad. Many described it as “a wonderful opportunity to learn together in community at a critical moment” and praised the chance to gather “in an intimate setting to learn from colleagues and build solidarity.”

“Coming together in Santa Clara gave us the opportunity to discuss the realities facing education abroad today and to think collectively about how we move forward with intention,” said Pato Lin-Steadman, Ed.D., Director for Programs and Training at The Forum on Education Abroad. “It reminded us of the importance of community, conversation, and a shared vision for the future of the field.”

Special thanks to our host, speakers, Regional Seminar planning committee, and sponsor The Ohio State University’s Center for International Business Education and Research for making this impactful event possible.

Regional Seminars are a core part of The Forum’s mission to meet members where they are. Designed by and for education abroad professionals and faculty, these events offer space for learning, networking, and collaboration around topics relevant to specific regions.

Interested in hosting a Regional Seminar? Learn more and submit your proposal today.