Reflecting on Progress: Highlights from the 2024 Global Inclusion Conference
Last month, the 2024 Diversity Abroad Global Inclusion Conference (GIC) brought together a vibrant community of educators, administrators, and advocates in Washington, D.C. to discuss strategies for fostering inclusion and equity in international education. Hosted by Diversity Abroad, IES Abroad was a Global Impact Sponsor for the conference, which serves as a platform to share insights, build connections, and reaffirm commitments to empowering underrepresented students in global learning opportunities.
Setting the Stage
Noelle Baldwin, Director of Diversity Relations & Advising at IES Abroad, opened the conference with inspiring remarks, reflecting on her decade-long involvement with the Global Inclusion Conference. Baldwin emphasized the importance of exploring our "why"—the motivations driving our work in diversity and inclusion—and challenged attendees to reimagine the possibilities within the field of international education.
“We are shaping an ecosystem that nurtures students—students who will become change-makers, bridging divides and driving meaningful change.”
Noelle Baldwin, Director of Diversity Relations & Advising
Building a More Inclusive Future and Our Mission in Motion
A centerpiece of the conference was the student panel, which showcased the voices and experiences of students from diverse backgrounds who have participated in international education programs. Among the panelists was Dara Abimbola, a Spring 2024 IES Abroad Milan alum and Social Media Correspondent, whose insights highlighted the power of study abroad in breaking barriers and creating opportunities for personal and academic growth.
IES Abroad’s long-standing partnership with Diversity Abroad—spanning more than 16 years—was another highlight of the event. Together, our organizations have made strides in enhancing access to study abroad programs, ensuring that we reflect the rich diversity of the world.
The conference provided a dynamic space for attendees to engage in meaningful dialogue, share innovative practices, and deepen their understanding of the challenges facing international education today, including geopolitical conflict, climate change, and systemic racism.
Goals of the Global Inclusion Conference
Redefining the 'Why'
Amplifying Student Voices as Change-Makers
Strengthening Collaborative Ecosystems
Innovating for Inclusivity
Empowering Future Global Citizens
As Baldwin noted, “To be a global citizen in today’s world is no small feat.” Yet, through collaboration and collective action, the conference reaffirmed the commitment to creating a future where global education empowers students to drive change, cross boundaries, and build a more inclusive world.
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“We are shaping an ecosystem that nurtures students—students who will become change-makers, bridging divides and driving meaningful change.”Noelle Baldwin, Director of Diversity Relations & Advising
