This NAFSA D&I Collegial Conversation delves into the critical topic of fostering inclusive work environments and promoting employee well-being in the realm of global education. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify institutional practices that contribute to inclusive work environments.
  • Explore how global education offices can adapt policies to support diverse work-life needs and reduce burnout.
  • Assess the effectiveness of organizational changes in promoting employee well-being, with a focus on the integration of remote work policies and flexible scheduling.
  • Examine strategies for institutional support that challenge productivity-focused norms, emphasizing how embracing wellness and inclusivity can lead to meaningful changes in workplace culture and employee well-being. 

Through open dialogue and shared experiences, 2024 D&I subcommittee members colleagues share their valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance institutions' commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The resource is created by the volunteer leaders who serve on the Education Abroad Knowledge Community’s subcommittee on Diversity and Inclusion in Education Abroad (2024):

  • Christina Thompson, Compear Global Education Network, Chair
  • Amy Bowes, Duke University
  • Kevin Sullivan, Case Western Reserve University
  • Kyle Kieth, Barcelona SAE 
     
Attachments
Resource for Supervisors: A Guide to Combating Burnout and Promoting Balance in Education Abroad Workplaces

Christina Thompson

Chris Thompson
Compear Global Education Network
Content Coordinator for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, EAKC
Christina 'Chris' Thompson (she/her/hers) is noted for her influential work in global education and her dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her recent achievements include being nominated for the 2024 Go Abroad Award for Innovation in Diversity and receiving this award in 2022 and the...
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Kevin Sullivan

Kevin Sullivan Headshot
Case Western Reserve University
D&I Subcommittee Member
Kevin Sullivan is the assistant director of education abroad at Case Western Reserve University, helping students find and plan study, research, internship, and co-op opportunities around the world. He is also a member of the NAFSA Rainbow SIG leadership team. Sullivan received his master's degree...
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Kyle Keith

Kyle Keith
North Carolina State University
Kyle Keith (he/him/his) joined the Study Abroad Office at North Carolina State University in 2018. In addition to his professional role as a program coordinator, Kyle is involved in diversity and inclusion programming both within the international education unit at NC State and across campus. Kyle...
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Amy Bowes

Amy Bowes
Duke University
D&I Subcommittee Member
Amy Bowes (she/her) is the Associate Director of the Global Education Office at Duke University. With over a decade of experience working in higher education and study away, Amy is experienced in program development, program management, crisis response, and advising. Amy holds a B.A. in Political...
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A Guide to Combat Burnout and Promote Balance in Education Abroad Workplaces

The Diversity & Inclusion subcommittee created a resource guide for Education Abroad supervisors with practical strategies for creating a healthy and sustainable work environment for their teams.

This downloadable resource offers practical strategies for creating a healthy and sustainable work environment and addresses key areas of management such as:

  • Assessing Workplace Culture: Evaluating current practices, conducting surveys, and holding open conversations to understand employee perspectives.
  • Promoting Flexible Work Practices: Supporting remote work options, allowing for flexible scheduling, and minimizing unnecessary meetings.
  • Implementing Restorative Practices: Incorporating mindfulness, wellness breaks, and "no-meeting" days to promote employee well-being.
  • Recognizing and Addressing Burnout: Proactively identifying and addressing signs of burnout within the team.