"I have loved my time at IES Abroad, and I am delighted to finish out my career here. We’ve accomplished incredible things together, and I’m so grateful for the amazing people I have had the honor of working with all these years. Thank you for the memories!" -Rich Bartecki, Executive Vice President for Marketing & Institutional Relations
Tenured Executive Vice President for Marketing & Institutional Relations, Rich Bartecki, to Retire
After nearly 16 years of dedicated service, Rich Bartecki, our Executive Vice President for Marketing & Institutional Relations, will be embarking on his retirement, effective January 1, 2025. Rich will be passing the torch to Amy Ruhter McMillan, Senior Associate Vice President of Global Marketing & Strategic Communications.
Rich will be greatly missed by his IES Abroad colleagues, but his contribution to IES Abroad will live on in his extensive contributions to the organization.
Since joining IES Abroad in 2009, Rich has made an extraordinary impact on the organization. He has always emphasized that our successes are a team effort—a true testament to his spirit as a dedicated colleague. Rich consistently puts IES Abroad’s students and partners first, and leads with integrity and authenticity, living out our mission and values.
Throughout his tenure, Rich has played a pivotal role in numerous milestones, changing more student lives through study abroad than ever before. Under his guidance, IES Abroad’s enrollment grew a remarkable 142%, our Consortium grew to more than 275 colleges and universities, and his leadership helped IES Abroad navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging stronger and achieving record enrollment numbers. He also spearheaded the High-Impact Aid Commitment, which has significantly increased access to study abroad for our students and further our commitment to increasing access and equity within study abroad.
Amy Ruhter McMillan Appointed as Vice President of Global Marketing & Institutional Relations
As part of this leadership transition, Amy Ruhter McMillan, Senior Associate Vice President of Global Marketing & Strategic Communications and a long-serving, innovative marketing leader at IES Abroad, will be promoted to Vice President of Global Marketing & Institutional Relations, effective January 1, 2025.
Amy’s 26-year journey at IES Abroad has seen her rise from Recruiting Assistant to an indispensable leader within the organization. With a passion for study abroad and a keen strategic vision, she has driven the Global Marketing Department to new heights making its branding and marketing some of the best in the field, securing over 65 marketing awards, including recognition for the IES Abroad Study Abroad Film Festival, which she founded in 2014.
Under her leadership, the festival has not only enhanced the organization’s visibility but also helped generate over $1 million in scholarships. Amy’s innovative approach has led major initiatives, from multiple website rebuilds to expanding digital engagement through social media, advertising, and student-driven content, including the IES Abroad Correspondent program. McMillan’s focus remains on ensuring the organization adapts to meet the evolving needs of students.
Her visionary leadership and collaborative approach will be key to the continued success of IES Abroad’s College Relations & Advising, Global Marketing, IES Internships, Global Enrollment Management, and Financial Aid Departments.
"I am truly honored to step into the role of Vice President of Global Marketing & Institutional Relations at IES Abroad. Our mission to provide transformative global education experiences has never been more important, and I am excited to continue working with our talented team to expand opportunities for students and foster strong relationships with our institutional partners." -Amy Ruhter McMillan, Senior Associate Vice President of Global Marketing & Strategic Communications
Please join us in celebrating Rich Bartecki’s outstanding career at IES Abroad, and Amy Ruhter McMillan’s well-deserved promotion in this exciting new chapter.
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