A global nonprofit association consisting of over 10,000 members, dedicated to international education and exchange, has honored Margaret Wiedenhoeft, the Executive Director of the Kalamazoo College Center for International Programs (CIP), by appointing her as the chair for its 2023 conference. This conference, coinciding with the organization's 75th anniversary, was the NAFSA: Association of International Educators Conference and Expo, held in Washington, D.C. from May 30 to June 2. The event served as a platform for the NAFSA community to unite, marking the occasion by reflecting, celebrating, inspiring, and fostering creativity through shared insights, diverse viewpoints, and innovative approaches. It aimed to explore evolving trends in professional growth and career development while underscoring the significance of creating inclusive global communities within higher education.
In her role as the NAFSA conference chair, Wiedenhoeft collaborated with the annual conference committee to formulate a call for proposals, enlist reviewers for those proposals, and determine the selection of presenters. Additionally, she contributed to shaping the conference theme, brainstorming session types, and actively promoted the event to attract potential first-time attendees. Reflecting on the experience, Wiedenhoeft expressed her excitement about being part of a conference hosting 10,000 attendees, describing it as an intriguing behind-the-scenes perspective. She noted the unexpected yet enjoyable aspect of being asked to participate in numerous photographs alongside delegations from various countries, considering it a delightful way to connect with people and learn about their reasons for attending, ultimately fostering new relationships.
The conference predominantly centered around NAFSA's significant anniversary and the ongoing global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Key topics included matters such as international student recruitment, accessibility of visas, and available funding for first-generation students aspiring to study abroad. Wiedenhoeft highlighted discussions focusing on advocacy efforts at national and state levels, aiming to illustrate the broader impact of funding international educational initiatives beyond individual campuses. Additionally, conversations addressed the political climate, particularly concerning certain states' restrictions on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and the treatment of students from specific countries. This discourse aimed to prepare for effective responses and advocacy in such scenarios.
