The Alliance is pleased to announce the newest members of our Board of Directors.
Fanta Aw is the Executive Director & CEO at NAFSA: Association of International Educators, a membership organization committed to international education and exchange, and working to advance policies and practices that build global citizens with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in today’s interconnected world. For Dr. Aw, “being on the Alliance board means a great deal because the mission is very aligned with what I deeply care about and that is the power and impact of people to people exchange. I hope to bring in the voice of the higher education sector and am excited to learn from my colleagues on the Board of Directors.”
James Bell serves as the CEO of Alliance Strategies, a global organization dedicated to creating impactful cultural exchange experiences. With a focus on fostering meaningful connections and promoting professional growth, the company emphasizes authentic cultural immersion as a foundation for real change. Operating through 10 global offices and 4 core brands—Alliance Abroad, GeoVisions, StepWest, and WildPacks—Alliance Strategies provides transformative work abroad opportunities for participants while helping host employers access top international talent. For James, “joining the Alliance Board is an opportunity to contribute to the vital work of advancing inclusivity, innovation, and global understanding in international exchange. At a time of evolving challenges, I am committed to fostering collaboration among peers and supporting initiatives that create meaningful impact. Drawing on years of leadership in the cultural exchange industry, I look forward to working alongside dedicated leaders to shape the future of international exchange and strengthen connections across cultures and communities.”
Sarah Ilchman is Co-President at the Institute of International Education (IIE), which touches the lives of more than 29,000 people in 180 countries each year through the programs they administer, helping to educate the next generation of leaders and serving as a lifeline to the world’s most imperiled students, scholars, and artists. According to Sarah, “Serving on the Alliance Board is an opportunity to strengthen IIE’s commitment to collaboration and advocacy in the field of international education. It is a chance to actively shape the future of international exchange, connect with dedicated leaders, and support initiatives that drive meaningful impact across the globe.”
Mark Rebstock is the Vice President & Deputy Director, IVLP at Meridian International Center, a nonpartisan, nonprofit diplomacy center with the vision that greater understanding and collaboration between the United States and the world leads to a more prosperous future for all. For Mark, “as geopolitical volatility and global conflict rise, international exchange programs that promote global dialogue, collaboration on major issues, and U.S. foreign policy objectives will be more important than ever. To support these important initiatives, a strong Alliance will continue to be called upon to champion, amplify, and advocate for robust support for these programs. I and Meridian are honored to serve on the Alliance board to strengthen and grow our efforts.”
Caroline Spencer is the Director of Government Relations at Participate Learning, whose mission is to unite our world through global learning. Caroline is “excited to serve on the Alliance Board and proud to represent the growing teacher exchange category, which plays a critical role in shaping future leaders. I look forward to collaborating with the Alliance and fellow board members across all exchange categories to protect and promote our industry, ensuring these vital programs continue to thrive.”
We welcome Fanta, James, Sarah, Mark and Caroline to the Board, and thank them for their leadership and service to the Alliance community and the international education and exchange field.