Academy coaches are volunteer members who work with a cohort of six trainees. They represent a broad range of expertise and have worked in the field of international education for more than five years. Coaches work with their trainees to develop the trainees' learning plans and guide them as they navigate the world of international education, including NAFSA. They also advise trainees on workshop and session selections at the annual and fall regional conferences. Each coach is trained to be knowledgeable in six coaching skill sets:
- Knowledge of the Academy
- Marketing and Recruitment
- Building a Cohort
- Supporting Trainee Development
- Professional Tools
- Facilitating Learning
Academy Coach Applications
Access to coaches' experience and knowledge is one of the greatest benefits for trainees. The coaches provide professional guidance and direction to trainees while they receive a broad overview of international education through a variety of workshops. Note: You must be a NAFSA member to serve as a coach for the NAFSA Academy.
Applications for the 2025 Academy coach class are now closed. The next application cycle will open in the spring of 2025 for the 2026 Academy coach class.
Academy Coach Testimonial
"I’ve truly enjoyed seeing my trainees grow professionally. My coaching experience has also contributed to my own personal and professional development in many ways. I look forward to seeing all my outstanding trainees graduate from the Academy in December, and I look forward to serving again in 2021! The growth each of my trainees demonstrated this year shows just how valuable the Academy is." - Loveness Schafer, 2020/2021 Academy Coach.
Chair/Chair Designates
Kira Espiritu

Shannon Ingleby

Aaron Clevenger, EdD

2025 Academy Coaches
Andrew Van Lew

Danielle Davis

Dr. Drew Dexter Ross

Darya Anoshei

Dulce Amor L. Dorado

Jennifer Gay

Jim Crawley

Molly Heidemann

Valerie Slate

Omobonike Odegbami

Kimberly Hajec

Mireille McLaughlin

Naomi Ziegler

2024 Academy Coaches
Shauna Walsh

Kim Steinmetz

Loveness Schafer

Tiffanie Loeb Schneider

Andelys Bolaños

Franny Henkel

Valerie Slate

Ebony Majeed

Omobonike Odegbami

Emily Ostenson

Travis Pentz

Robb McCollum

Tyler Morkin, MA
