Reflections from the Ping Taylor Professional Fellows at the Forum on Education Abroad Conference
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The Ping Taylor Professional Fellows Grant, established by CIEE and AIFS, supports international education professionals by funding their attendance at pivotal conferences. These grants aim to equip leaders in the field with the tools and knowledge to drive meaningful change, ensuring that global education becomes more accessible for all.
The most recent class of Fellows attended The Forum on Education Abroad’s Annual Conference in Toronto, Canada, from March 19-21, 2025. Here’s what they had to say about their experiences:
Transformational Professional Growth
For many Fellows, the Ping Taylor Grant was more than just financial support—it was a catalyst for transformation. Fabiola Riobé reflected on how the fellowship empowered her to advance international education at her community college, where global learning is still an emerging concept:
“There are members of our leadership team and board who, prior to my arrival, did not fully understand the value of such initiatives. Because of the opportunities provided through the PING Fellowship, I was able to begin securing funding and garnering support for this important work. The national and international recognition brought by the program elevated the visibility of our college in ways we had never experienced before.”
A Full Cup of Knowledge and Inspiration
For Shai Nickerson, the conference was an opportunity to absorb new ideas and connect with like-minded professionals: “I’m back home from The Forum on Education Abroad Conference in Toronto, and wow—my cup (and my notebook) is full. The days were busy, but the evenings were magical.”
A Full Circle Moment
For Calvin Dement, attending The Forum on Education Abroad Conference was a milestone in his career: “That’s a wrap on my first Forum! It was more than I ever could have imagined, and I’ll never forget it! I even got to catch up with Taylor Morgan, who helped jumpstart my career as my Education Abroad internship supervisor during grad school. This experience has been a real full-circle moment for me, and I’m reminded just how much I love this field.”
A Platform for Early Career Growth
Yaniris Fernandez expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in both the AIFS Abroad Early Career Workshop and The Forum on Education Abroad Conference.
“Over the course of three inspiring days, I participated in engaging workshops and connected with colleagues from around the world. This invaluable experience was made possible by the Ping-Taylor Professional Fellow Grant.”
Recharged and Recommitted
Jill Kerr from Louisiana State University described the conference as a kaleidoscope of ideas, connections, and possibilities for expanding study abroad at her institution.
“This conference has been a kaleidoscope of new ideas, contacts, and information. So many exciting possibilities for expanding study abroad at Louisiana State University! Recharged and recommitted to helping more students.”
Shaping the Future of Global Education
The reflections from this year’s Ping Taylor Fellows underscore the profound impact of this grant, not just on the individuals who receive it but also on their institutions and students. By breaking financial barriers and fostering professional growth, the fellowship ensures that global education remains a powerful force for change.
The next and final cohort of fellows will be announced in April 2025.