In July, the Learning Abroad Center (LAC) brought on-site staff from around the world to Minnesota for a week-long workshop. These staff manage programs and support students while they are abroad, and this workshop is an opportunity to come together, meet in-person with LAC staff, learn about policies and procedures, and keep up with current issues in the field.

Attendees included resident directors and other on-site staff from the LAC’s programs in Argentina, Ecuador, France, Italy, Mexico, Senegal, Spain, and Thailand, and other partners from across the U.S.

The event began with a welcome reception, followed by three days of learning and discussion on topics such as student mental health and wellness, institutional relations, accommodations for mental health abroad, feminism and gender equity, health and safety, sustainable development goals and curriculum, navigating the AI world, and connecting with families.

Participants also had the opportunity to attend study abroad program reunions—including the Minnesota Studies in International Development programs in Ecuador, Senegal, and Thailand and the 20th anniversary of the Study & Intern in Buenos Aires program—and enjoy a production at the Guthrie Theater.

“From a walk at Minnehaha Falls to our training sessions, the value of everyone being together was clear—we all learn continuously from one another,” said Ann Hubbard, assistant vice provost for learning abroad. “It was gratifying to host our colleagues here given the warm welcomes they offer LAC staff during our travels.”