Session Descriptions for the 2011 Bi-Regional Conference in Reno, Nevada Advising Scandals on Campus (ISSS) Tri Valley University, Cal State Northridge, Professors acting “scandously” by requesting I-20s for so called “students”/ What happened. How to address it and how to handle your administration and perhaps campus police. Join DSOs and the attorney who investigated discovered corruption on campus and worked with the administration in putting out the “fire” on campus. Chair: Adam Green, Immigration Attorney Presenters: Bob Chudy, Director, UCLA What International Student and Scholar Offices Should Know About Taxes (ISSS) Like it or not, International Student Advisors need to have basic understanding of the tax issues international students and scholars face in complying with their presence in the US. This session specifically discusses what you should do- and should not do-when providing any tax information. We also discuss the IRS’ new audit program of foreign students and what guidance you can provide if a student is selected for an IRS audit under the new program. Chair/Presenter: Donna Kepley, President. Arctic Intenational, LLC Work on Edge: Student and Scholar Tricky Employment Issues (ISSS) When is working “employment” and when is it not? This session will seek to answer all the tricky questions posed by students and scholars that fall outside the ambit of normally authorized employment: volunteering, self employment, investment, starting a business, selling their own services or products, receiving royalties, working for an employer abroad from the US and of course, “helping”. Case studies will be extensively utilized. Chair: David A. M. Ware, Attorney at Law, David Ware & Associates Presenter: Chrsity Babcock, Associate Director, International Student Services, Boise State University Permanent Resident Basics for Student and Scholar Advising (ISSS) This session covers the basic issues student and scholar advisors need to keep in mind when questions come up regarding permanent residence: dispelling permanent residence myths, the basic pathways for both students and scholars, ie, family, employment, investment, asylum, diversity lottery and removal proceedings; and related other tricky issues, such as maintenance of status while applying, deciphering the Visa Bulletin, “dead end” courses of study and qualifying for in the tuition. Chair: Tammi Johnson, Coordinator, International Student, Scholar and Faculty Services, University of Idaho Presenter: David A. M. Ware, Attorney at Law, David Ware & Associates Internationalizing the Curriculum in a Post 9/11 World: The Power of Adding Film to your Intercultural Toolbox (ISSS, EA) This year marks a decade since the tragic events of September 11. Today's undergraduate college students were 8-12 years old in 2001 and consequently have spent their intellectually formative years with post-9/11 media coverage. Although many students are open to personal growth and maturation through intercultural programs, they sometimes simply lack moments that inspire these processes. Using “Crossing Borders” as an example, we can see how crosscultural film has the potential to strengthen intercultural empathy in students and inspire participation in cross-cultural programs. This practical session will involve a screening of parts of the award-winning feature documentary “Crossing Borders,” and a dialogue of participants with the film director. The film “Crossing Borders” is a cross-cultural tool that is designed to empower students by: 1. heightening students’ awareness of hidden preconceptions, 2. supporting the development of critical thinking skills, and 3. initiating dialogue between students of different cultures. This session was selected as the “highlight of region III” for the annual NAFSA conference in Vancouver. Chair: Arnd Waechter, Director, Filmmaker Crossing Borders and Director CB Education, Crossing Borders Education Inc. Be Cool, Be Global, Be Intelligent, Be a part of it… (ISSS, IEL) Riverside City College International Club and the Center for International Students and Programs work towards a mutual goal of creating a global campus. This session includes information about a newly established mentor program for international visa students. We also discuss how we overcome challenges we experience as a two-year institution such as the high turnover rate of club members. Chair: Aya Saito, International Students and Programs Specialist / International Club Advisor, Riverside City College Presenters: Riverside City College International Club Members The 21st Century International and Multicultural Nexus (ISSS, IEL) The western states have robustly diverse student communities. Since the l970’s efforts have been made to bridge the cross-cultural stream of backgrounds of our domestic and foreign populations. There have been some successes, some failures. The dialog continues out of attempts to improve campus climate, as well as capitalize on the global learning which can result from intentional administrative structures and creative partnerships with campus and civic organizations. Discussion also highlights American Council on Education Initiatives. Community college colleagues will be particularly well informed from the presentation of the Modesto Junior College model. Chair: Diane E. Elton, IEL Representative, Region XII, Diversity Abroad Network Advisory Committee Panelists: Barbara St. Urbain, Coordinator, International. Student Program, Modesto Junior College Sarah Ross, Director of International Education, UCSD Creating a Crisis Management Plan for Your Program (ISSS, EA, IEL) On March 11th many of us turned on the news to hear about one of the largest natural disasters to hit Japan in recorded history. What was your first thought about your Japanese students studying here in the States? Did you have process in plan for your students? Emergency contacts ready? This interactive presentation will allow participants to discuss real situations from medical emergencies to natural disasters and how their staff and instructors reacted. Following the discussion, the presenters will provide aspects to remember and steps on how to establish a standardized crisis plan. Chair: Mackenzie Bristow, Center Director, ELS Language Centers/La Verne Presenter: Ashlee Milby, Center Director, ELS Language Centers/Thousand Oaks Best Practices for Working with Sponsored Students: from A to Z (ISSS, RAP, SPA-Sponsoring Progr. Administr.) This session explores effective practices for working with sponsored students and their managing agencies from recruitment, admissions, ESL, advising, and financial views. Presenters share experiences from their institutions and encourage participants to contribute insight. Chair: Denise Keeton, Program Support Supervisor, Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS), Washington State University Presenters: Emily Pacheco, Academic Manager, Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), Megan Goold, Student Services and Immigration Advisor, University of Arizona, Center for English as a Second Language (CESL) Student Learning Outcomes: A Primer for ISSS Offices (ISSS, EA, TLS) An introduction to Student Learning Outcomes (SLO's) for International Student and Scholar professionals. Accreditation agencies throughout the U.S. are requiring colleges and universities to provided metrics to justify the value-added outcomes of services provided to students. Models of applied research in ISSS will be presented from the community college, state university and private university settings. This session will help ISSS professional prepare useful metrics for daily use or for when accreditation agencies come to campus. Chair: Edwin Cahill, Assistant Director, Office of International Student Services, Pepperdine University Presenters: Lay Tuan Tan, Director, International Education & Exchange, CSU, Fullerton Tammy Silver, Director, International Center, College of Southern Nevada Kathryn Morrissey, Study Abroad Advisor, CSU Fullerton Research in International Education: Methods, Models, and Impacts (IEL, Pan-NAFSA,TLS) International educators are frequently asked to demonstrate results. This highly interactive session provides all attendees with concrete ideas for conducting international education research related to student learning outcomes and suggestions for how to effectively demonstrate and apply results to department, divisional or institutional goals. Attendees at this session will learn about research models from practitioner researchers. Presenters share their methodologies for conducting formative and summative assessments that relate to international and study abroad students. Session attendees will then engage in a facilitated discussion of gaps in international education research and link these topics to promising research methods. To support these ideas the presenters share tools and resources that international educators can access as they conduct and disseminate research. Finally, the presenters discuss opportunities for influencing practice, policy, and leadership with data from empirical research. Chair: David Wick, Coordinator of Study Abroad Services, San Francisco State University Presenters: Lisa Loberg, Director of Study Abroad, California Lutheran University Katie Roller, Director of International Study, Marymount College Maria D. Flores, Associate Director, Saint Mary's College of California "Executive Summary" ESL Student Orientation (ISSS, IEL, ESL) ESL students come to the US with varying degrees of jet-lag, culture shock and English proficiency. "Executive Summary" ESL Student Orientation provides methods of rapidly orienting these students to minimize their stress and maximize their retention of critical facts. We will discuss selection, preparation and delivery of orientation content. I will also share our approaches to handbooks, tours and staff introduction. Chair/Presenter: Michael Q. Larson Center Director ELS Language Centers/Santa Barbara Language in Motion: Facilitating Study Abroad Re-entry Through A Community Program (ISSS, EA) Willamette University is utilizing the Language in Motion (LiM) program to send study abroad-returnees and international students into the local public schools to share language and culture. The inclusion of study abroad returnees in the program has helped ease re-entry issues and given students an outlet to share their experiences and a chance to interact specifically around language and culture topics with international students while serving as role models for K-12 students. Many campuses send international students into the schools, but we think it unique to include s/a returnees. The LiM program originated at Juniata College in Pennsylvania, and the consortium includes 11 schools from throughout the U.S., though Willamette University is the only partner on the west coast. Because the model is highly flexible while maintaining core elements, we hope to inspire people to consider joining the LiM consortium and offering a similar opportunity to their own returnee and international student populations. Session presenters include LiM staff from Willamette University, Juniata College (Huntingdon, PA), and Iowa State University (Ames, IA). Chair: Chris Andresen Associate Director, Office of International Education, Willamette University Presenters: Nomi Pearce LiM Coordinator, Willamette University Deborah Roney, Director, LiM Assistant Professor of English, Juniata College (Huntingdon, PA), Julie Wilhelm, Lecturer, Iowa State University (Ames, IA) What’s in a Name? Learn Pinyin So You Can Correctly Pronounce Chinese Names (ISSS, TLS, Pan-NAFSA) Sure, you can guess how to pronounce Wang Peng – but how do you pronounce Xie Zhiguo? As Chinese students make up a large portion of the international student populations we serve, it is worthwhile to spend a little time learning how to actually pronounce their names. If a Mandarin name is pronounced correctly by a speaker, then the listener who knows Pinyin will know exactly how to spell their name. Pinyin is consistent and methodical – unlike say... English! It takes a little time and effort, but once you learn it you will be able to confidently and correctly address your Chinese students, scholars and overseas partners by their actual names - not the one you make up for them. Or, you can just keep guessing… Why not learn a valuable new skill that will help you connect more deeply with Chinese individuals and make it easier to identify them in any situation? (Study materials will be provided.) Chair: Fred Polinder, SEVIS Coordinator/International Student Advisor, Western Oregon University U.S. Government Initiatives to Promote U.S. Higher Education Overseas (RAP, IEL) “No Better Export: Higher Education By Francisco Sánchez, Under Secretary for International Trade, U.S. Department of Commerce In his State of the Union address, President Obama, who has emphasized the importance of higher education in our nation, said we must "out-innovate, out-educate, and out-build the rest of the world. ... That's how we'll win the future." From my perspective, a crucial element of winning the future is an increased focus on exports—and among our most valuable exports is education. At the International Trade Administration, in the U.S. Commerce Department, my primary objective is to spur job creation and aid the nation's economic recovery by doubling U.S. exports within five years. You might not think of students as part of our export strategy, but, in fact, higher education ranks among the country's top 10 service exports, right between environmental services and safety and security. We are the largest destination for international students seeking higher education; tuition and living expenses paid by those students and their families brought nearly $20-billion to the U.S. economy during the 2009-10 academic year. According to the Institute of International Education, that dollar figure is expected to continue rising. However, international competition is fierce, and the United States has seen a 30-percent decrease of its market share in the past decade, reinforcing the importance of its efforts to maintain its position as the world's leading higher-education destination. Building ties with international students not only helps American students gain a greater level of international understanding—a vital skill for success in the 21st-century global economy—but also familiarizes future global leaders with the American people and U.S. society. As we look to "win the future," I see no more valuable export than that.” The Chronicle of Higher Education http://chronicle.com/article/No-Better-Export-Higher/126989/ The U.S. Commercial Service, a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, has a variety of programs that assist educational institutions and intensive English programs with their international recruitment efforts. These educational organizations have access to U.S. Commercial Officers and International Trade Specialists in more than 80 countries as well as our local offices in the U.S. In many countries, the U.S. Commercial Service has an education specialist who can assist institutions with locating agents, meeting high school guidance or university counselors, and potential partner universities. These specialists can also lead organizations to private companies that may need executive education or specialized training for their employees. From arranging seminars and networking receptions at U.S. Embassies for an institution’s alumni or prospective partners to leading high level education missions and producing customized market research reports, this agency’s programs are flexible to meet an individual school’s international recruitment budget and strategic plan. The U.S. Commercial Service’s Education Team consists of individuals, across the U.S. and overseas, who work with a large number of clients in this industry. This session’s presentation will cite examples of best practices for educational institutions that have used this agency’s various programs for international student recruitment. Additionally, attendees will be briefed on resources available from the U.S. State Department’s Education USA Advising Centers located worldwide. The U.S. education services sector earned just over $18.8 billion during the 2009/2010 academic year, making it one of the largest and most visible American services exports. This figure consists of tuition and living expenses of foreign students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities. In the 2009/2010 academic year, 127,628 students from China and 104,897 students from India studied at U.S. institutions, making them the two leading countries of origin of foreign university students in the United States.2 NAFSA, 2009/2010 Economic Impact Statement, http://www.nafsa.org/publicpolicy/default.aspx?id=23158 2Institute of International Education (IIE), Open Doors 2010. New York, New York. Chair/Presenter: Gabriela Zelaya, International Trade Specialist, U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Commercial Service Generational Differences: A Global Perspective (RAP) Claiming that “millennials are millennials” wherever they are in the world is like casually saying that “customers are customers” anywhere in the world. The differences that Americans have used to distinguish between generations cannot be applied globally, since different countries have their own significant events that have influenced their population. For example, in Japan, seven generational cohorts have developed since the end of World War II that cannot be aligned with the Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y, their contemporaries in the West. This session explores some of the notable generational differences globally and what implications they have on international educators for both recruiting and educating international students. Chair/Presenter: Aimee Akimoff, Director of Recruitment, Willamette University MBA How do international students find your school online? (RAP) Using research based on the online behavior of 8 million international students searches looking to study abroad, this session looks at the trends of international students searching online. How does this vary by country (using analysis of over 21 countries/regions around the world); by subject and qualification? How important, are peer to peer student recommendations, reaching students in their own language, providing web content in the local language. How should you best respond to inquiries from international students and what is the expected turnaround time from an inquiry to an admission? Using Hotcourses 10 years experience of providing content online to international students, these, and other issues are covered using independent, non-promotional information. A similarly themed and research based presentation was made at last year’s NAFSA regional conference in Jacksonville and was very well received/rated. Chair/Presenter: Mike Elms, CEO and Founder, Hotcourses Inc Higher Education in Latin America and Specialization Programs: Professional vs. Academic? (RAP) The presentation compares the educational systems of Latin American countries with a focus on higher education and post-graduate “specialization” qualifications. Presenters explain common educational structures throughout Latin America as well as the differences between the academic and professional “specialization” programs in such countries as Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and Venezuela. This session will help provide the tools necessary to determine when the recommendation of academic credit is warranted for these programs. Samples of academic records will be reviewed. Chair: Amy Santiago, Senior Evaluator, International Education Research Foundation, Inc. Presenter: Irene Romo, Evaluator, International Education Research Foundation, Inc. Secondary Education in Scandinavia: Denmark, Norway, Sweden (RAP) Education in Europe is currently undergoing many changes. Scandinavia has often been at the forefront of these changes. In this session, participants are introduced to the various types of secondary-school curriculum and leavingcertificates (vocational, academic, and the varied streams within each) currently available to students in Denmark, Norway and Sweden, Grading scales are shown. Participants have an opportunity to look and discuss resources available. Chair: Katrina Anaya, Graduate Assistant, Coordinator for International Student Life, Seattle University Presenter: LesLee Clauson, Northwest Regional Director, AACRAO International Education Services. West African Secondary Education (RAP) A look inside the workings of the West African secondary education systems, including the West African Examination Council (WAEC). This presentation will include an overview of the WAEC as well as an individual look at the five countries (The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone) that are members and how their education systems function. Helpful examples using sample documents will help the participants better understand how to review the credentials, and the grading scales, as well as how to assess which credentials determine completion of secondary education versus eligibility into higher education. Further resources such as contact information and how to verify results will also be provided. Chair: Séverine Immesoete, Credentials Evaluator, FIS Presenter: Kirstin van Gend, Credentials Evaluator, FIS Update on Higher Education in France (RAP) A thorough review of the French higher educational system especially in regards to how institutions have gradually adapted to the Bologna process (adjustment of academic calendars and programs, implementation of ECTS, credential naming conventions). Sample documents illustrating the credentials' new formats will be included. We will also compare the pre-Bologna and post-Bologna reform systems offered by traditional state universities as well as private institutions of higher education such as the Grandes Ecoles. Chair: Kirstin van Gend, Credentials Evaluator, FIS Presenter: Séverine Immesoete, Credentials Evaluator, FIS Saudi Arabian Mission Students Round Table (RAP) A discussion between advisors, evaluators and admissions staff on the Saudi Arabian Mission scholarship students – share your problems, fears, procedures and success stories. Chair: Lynn Perry, International Admissions Evaluator, CSU East Bay Hybrid Orientation: A Model for Integrating an On-line Orientation and an On-site Seminar (RAP) An on-line, interactive orientation can be a wonderful way to deliver important information to incoming tech-savvy students. However, the cost of losing the opportunities for new students to interact with each other and with college personnel is high. See how one community college developed an experiential on-site program to supplement its on-line orientation, resulting in a more engaging and student centered model, with better information retention and student success. Chair: Denise Kinsella, Associate Dean, International Education, Santa Monica College Presenter: Melissa Lyon, Student Services Specialist, Santa Monica College Strategic Career Planning: Making Positive Changes (Pan-NAFSA) It can be challenging to make career changes in international education. Come and have a collegial conversation with seasoned professionals who have recently moved on and up and learn their strategies for success. Find out what it takes to change jobs, move from one institutions to another, or staying at the same institution but acquiring new responsibilities. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a dialog with colleagues from several institutions and areas of international education. Chair: Sandy Soohoo-Refaei, Associate Director of International Programs Office, Linfield College Presenters: Candace A. Chenoweth, Director, Education Abroad & International Programs, Washington State University Chanda Kroll, Center Director, ELS Language Centers Juan Venegas, Assistant Registrar/PDSO, Otis College of Arts & Design, Los Angeles What are the key factors to increasing student participation in semester study abroad? (EA) Despite the many benefits of a study abroad experience, just 1-2% of U.S. students participate in study abroad programs of any duration. Current research points to a number of structural, economic, and social barriers encountered by students, which may explain the disparity between high levels of interest and low levels of participation. This interactive session will explore how study abroad professionals are successfully overcoming these obstacles and examine what strategies are supporting campus internationalization and contributing to greater participation in semester study abroad. Chair: Lisa Loberg, Director of Study Abroad, California Lutheran University Presenters: Gail DeBell, Study Abroad Coordinator, Seattle Pacific University Zac Einerson, Regional Director, GlobaLinks Katie Hunter Perkins, Director of International Programs, Whittier College Angela Manginelli, Assistant Director, AIFS San Francisco Navigating Partnerships between Institutions and International Education Organizations (IEO)/Program Providers (EA) This session provides an overview of the issues that campus-based education abroad offices must consider when partnering with International Education Organizations (IEO)/Program Providers. A panel of colleagues from both private and public institutions and three different types of IEOs will discuss the myriad of ways institutions can partner with IEOs and why they may or may not chose to do so. From program approval and transcripts to billing arrangements and financial aid transfer, the panel will offer many concrete examples of models for managing partnerships with IEOs to ensure a good institutional fit. By utilizing the Forum on Education Abroad’s “Standards of Good Practice,” special attention will be given to affiliation agreements, academic standards and transparency. Chair: Eowyn Greeno University Relations Manager SIT Study Abroad Presenters: Jim Galvin Director, Opportunities Abroad and Faculty-led Programs, UC San Diego Katie Hunter, Perkins Director of International Programs, Whittier College Zac Einerson Regional Director, GlobaLinks Learning Abroad Laura Sweet Manager, Institutional Relations, CIEE Crisis Management: Dealing with the Death of a Student Abroad (EA) Experiencing the death of a student is one of our greatest fears as study abroad and student life professionals. In the immediate aftermath of receiving the news, organizing and directing the crisis management team, supporting the community (family, friends and the broader “community” of the student), and managing communications, particularly in this era of instant messaging, are three critical areas to address. This session brings together three experienced professionals in student life and study abroad who have dealt with the death of a student abroad, highlights the value of sharing knowledge and expertise across student life and study abroad offices. The session will include an exploration of the three critical areas of managing the crisis (listed above), as well as small group discussions and problem solving, and taking stock of the crisis management resources available to each of us on our home campuses. Chair: Kathy Poole, Director of Study Abroad Office of International Affairs, University of Oregon Presenters: Sue Weitz, Vice President for Student Life, Gonzaga University Jeremy Stringer, Director, Student Development Admin. Program, Seattle University Service Learning, Internships, and Traditional Study Abroad Experiences: How do they really translate to the 'real world' (EA) What do we really know about how study abroad experiences translate to the 'real world?' We all believe that significant time abroad will expand minds and cultural understanding. In theory, this should lead to more marketable graduates. What evidence do we have to support this theory? What are today's employers really thinking? Does "study abroad" make a resume stand out to a potential employer? What about an internship abroad versus an internship stateside? Is an employer more likely to hire someone with international service learning experience or someone with a semester of traditional studies abroad? We've asked these questions and we are ready to share our findings. Chair: Dawn Gordon, Campus Relations Manager – West, CET Academic Programs Study Abroad Advising 101: “Do I need a visa if I have a MasterCard?” (EA) This session takes the new or mid-career study abroad professional step by step through the study abroad advising process, covering what students must know from the moment of first contact through program completion. Content will include program selection, academic needs, passport and visa acquisition, working with other departments on campus, student engagement, difficult students, being sensitive to students’ diverse needs, and more. In addition to the content of advising outside of pre-departure orientations, participants will also learn different models for managing the advising of students based on staff resources. Chair: Ryan Larsen, Assistant Director for Education Abroad, University of Nevada, Las Vegas Presenters: Tasha Dev, Study Abroad, Coordinator CSU Chico Corrine Henke, Associate Director, International Learning Opportunities Global Common Ground: Turning the "I" into "I am not alone” (EA) Global Common Ground is an exercise used during pre-departure orientation that challenges students to self identify themselves with various statements. Though this simple exploration of self identity, students develop an awareness and appreciation of diversity of their peers, as well as, noting their own identity going into a new culture. Additionally, they may begin to recognize the limitations of their own assumptions and worldviews. Students are able to draw the conclusion that they are not alone in identification with issues of race, health and safety, alcohol and drug use, sexual orientation, political and social views, and daily habits. This opening exercise fuels discussion which is echoed throughout the orientation, which allows students to probe their identity and create a sense of community, while addressing intercultural concerns prior to their departure. Chair: LaSharon McLean Perez, International Project Coordinator, International Education Center, UCR What’s in your Backpack? (ISSS, RAP) This is an experiential workshop intended to focus on short/long term goal setting through the practice of introspection and self awareness. This workshop is ideal for educators working with study abroad students or international students about to embark on their educational journey abroad. Chair/Presenter: Darren Grosch, Director, International Student Services & Global Education Programming, Los Angeles Southwest Community College Community Connect: Developing a Local Cultural Immersion Program (ISSS, IEL, RAP) For some, participating on a study abroad program is out of reach. However, this should not limit those students from participating in the exploration of multicultural relations. This workshop will examine the beneficial aspects of study abroad and how to develop a frame work to create a one day local cultural immersion program. Chair/Presenter: Darren Grosch, Director, International Student Services & Global Education Programming, Los Angeles Southwest Community College Deciphering Chinese credentials for general admissions and transfer purposes (RAP) An increasingly large number of transfer students from China enroll in the US universities and colleges every year. One of the major concerns for admissions professionals is how to determine transferability of credit in cases when an incomplete program transcript is submitted. The presentation will focus on the following key points: standard document formats and identifying whether the documentation contains sufficient information; types of institutions and institution recognition; types of programs: for-credit vs. non-credit; identifying program level, status and duration. The presenter will also share a number of sample credentials and offer insight into deciphering documents in Chinese, along with handouts containing key Chinese vocabulary and a list of useful resources for day-to-day office use. Chair: Majka Drewitz, Research & Knowledge Management – Senior Evaluator, Educational Credential Evaluators Inc. Applying forensic skills in detecting authenticity and fraud in educational credentials (RAP) With increased access to technology, Internet applications, and global mobility, fraud is a major concern in the field of education. The presenter will introduce the concept of using forensics for determining authentic and fraudulent documentation fraud with the use of inexpensive tools. It’s not “Elementary my dear Watson!” anymore. Chair: Majka Drewitz, Research & Knowledge Management – Senior Evaluator, Educational Credential Evaluators Inc. Becoming a Diversity Advocate for Your Institution (ISSS, IEL, RAP, Pan-NAFSA) Do you want to be a diversity advocate in your institution or company? Not sure where to start? Join an experienced diversity educator for practical advice on how to ensure appropriate motivation and make a big impression with minimal resources and/or organizational support. Find out how to motivate and utilize the expertise of people on your campus or in your office so that you (and they) can make a difference for students, staff, and faculty in their awareness and value of diversity. Chair/ Presenter: Doni M. Williams International Student Advisor University of Alaska Anchorage Playing in Our Sandbox - Strategies for Staff & Faculty to Work Together (ISSS, IEL, RAP, Pan-NAFSA) Are you tired of the “us” and “them” adversarial relationship between staff and faculty in international education? Join a Professor and an International Student Advisor to explore ways in which staff and faculty can collaborate to enhance cross-cultural opportunities for students and the campus community. Chair: Doni M. Williams International Student Advisor University of Alaska Anchorage Presenter: Christine Hanson Professor & Chair, Department of Anthropology University of Alaska Anchorage Supporting Yourself in a One Person Office (ISSS, RAP) In these times with ever decreasing budget and greater expectation for growth we can all use help when it is only one in the office. This session focuses on best practices for efficiency in time management, use of technology, collaboration, delegation (if you have someone to delegate to), and websites/resources we can utilize. In this session supported by a PowerPoint presentation there is a group discussion with filling out note cards to share best practices from all the universities present shared with one another. Chair: Karen Estella Popp, Graduate Student Service Coordinator, Portland State University Encouraging Students to Live with Host Families (EA) As international educators, we are aware of the numerous benefits of living with a host family while studying overseas, but students still are often hesitant to choose a local family as their housing option. This session covers the advantages of living with a host family, provides case studies of successful experiences, covers potential issues that are encountered and explores ways to identify students that would be a good match for this housing option. Additionally, this session is an open forum to discuss ways to encourage students to further immerse themselves in the local culture by selecting a family stay. Chair: Karen Eisenhut, University Relations Representative, CIS – Center for International Studies Presenters: Kylie Gallagher, Study Abroad Advisor, Central Washington University Elena Villaescusa Bermudo, Internship and Activities Coordinator, Barcelona Study Abroad Experience Creating a Cohesive International Student Pre/Post Arrival Experience: Integrating Peer Mentoring and International Student Orientation (ISSS) Join a panel of university international student life advisors to discuss themanyways that peer mentoring and orientation can be interlinked. This session begins with a panel discussion on ways to connect peer mentors with new international students before they arrive, and how mentors are integrated into International Student Orientation (ISO). We then move into a facilitated group discussion to share ideas, resources, and innovative programs that work to integrate mentoring with ISO. Throughout, we highlight ways that this integrated process can connect new students to campus resources, build community, and help them in their cultural and educational adjustment process. Chair: Sarah Kenney, International Student Life Advisor, Portland State University Presenter: Jill Townley, Assoc. Director, International Student Life, Portland State University Gracious Space and International Education (ISSS, RAP, IEL, EA, Pan-NAFSA) Gracious Space refers to a specific form of social capital, “a spirit and setting where we invite the stranger and learn in public” (Hughes, et. al. 2004). Gracious space was originated by the Center for Ethical Leadership and Bill Grace and Associates in Seattle, Washington, USA. In the context of organizational culture, these concepts can be defined as “Welcoming the stranger,” which refers to a culture fostering an open environment which communicates the following, “We want to welcome differences of all kinds: background, experience, perspective, etc. We need to ask who else in our community needs to be included in this work” (Hughes, et. al. 2004) “Learning in public” This concept of gracious space encourages practitioners to be willing and open to learning together, as part of a shared community, based on the belief that more robust, creative, sustainable and effective solutions can be achieved when individuals allow themselves to learn in public. Learning in public entails asking the following questions: “How will you open up to learning? What do you need to let go of – certainty, expertise, solutions, etc.—to open up? How will you create space for the ideas, wisdom, and expertise of others to show up?” (Hughes, et. al. 2004). This session will focus on: - The value of gracious space when interacting with international students and international education colleagues, and how to use gracious space as an effective tool for communication and for establishing a positive and effective culture in your office and within your educational institution as a whole. How can you be a change agent within your organization? - Using the concepts of "inviting the stranger" and "learning in public" as effective intercultural tools, which are useful in many different international education contexts, whether when working with international students from many different cultures and parts of the world, teaching English to international students, or advising or working with US students participating in study abroad programs overseas. Come attend this exciting session and explore how gracious space may provide the ideal foundation for an effective, supportive, positive, and forward-thinking international education office. Chair: Mariah Ortiz Admissions Advisor University of Washington Bothell Presenters: Karma Ruder Director of Community Collaboration Center for Ethical Leadership India: Changing landscape and emerging recruitment practices (RAP) With students from India representing 15% of all foreign students in U.S, it is important for international recruiting plans to incorporate a clearly defined strategy for India. This session will share key socio-economic trends that continue to make India attractive from a recruitment perspective. The presentation will provide insight into student, parent and counselor decision variables based on research and interviews conducted, discuss key factors to consider while creating an India recruiting plan and share recruiting practices being utilized by institutions. Chair: SWARAJ NANDAN DIRECTOR KIC UNIVASSIST ??????? The Many Successful Models of Short-Term, Faculty-led, Off-Campus Programs (EA) This panel is represented by individuals from different colleges/ universities that work with a variety of models of facultyled, short-term programs. Each panelist will share 2-3 best practices from their particular program. Dialogue between the panelist and the audience is encouraged. (2 back-to-back sessions) Chair: Michele Tomseth, Assistant Director, International Programs, Linfield College Presenters: Ellen Arden-Ogle Director, LRCCD Study Abroad Program, Los Rios Community College Districtterm Kylie Gallagher, Faculty-Led Program Coordinator, Central Washington University Darren Grosch, Director, International Student Services, Los Angeles Southwest College Hinrich Kaiser, Associate Professor, Victor Valley College Teter Kapan, International Education Coordinator, Chemeketa Community College Jan Schall, Coordinator International Education/Study Abroad Programs/Professor, Riverside Community College District Collaborating with EducationUSA to Raise Your Institution’s Profile Internationally (ISSS, RAP) How are U.S. institutions working with EducationUSA to improve their international admissions & recruitment efforts? This panel session will look at examples of cooperation and initiatives between colleges and the U.S. Department of State's EducationUSA network of 400 advising centers in 170 countries. Chair: Marty Bennett EducationUSA Marketing Coordinator Institute of International Education Presenters: Becky George Director of International Programs Leeward Community College SEVIS Coordinator Roundtable (ISSS) Join us in a guided open discussion on topics, best practices, and procedures relating to SEVIS reporting and data management. A panel of experienced SEVIS Coordinators will guide the participants in a discussion that includes important concepts such as SEVIS Calendars, Auditing Against RTI, Data Correction Requests, Batch vs. RTI, Change of Level and Transfer Records, Data Management and Systems, Supporting and Managing Others, reporting for ESL students, preparing for SEVIS II, and much more. You do not need to be a SEVIS Coordinator to attend…. If part of your job includes the reporting done in SEVIS you will find this session interesting. Chair: Robert J. Riggs, SEVIS Coordinator, PDSO, Washington State University Presenters: Verona Garcia, SEVIs Coordinator/International Student Advisor, Oregon State University Quyen Le, SEVIS Coordinator, University of Southern California Diem O’Rourke, IT Specialist and SEVIs Coordinator, Bellevue College Joshua Davis, International student and SEVIS Advisor, Portland State University Visa Updates for France, Italy, Spain and the UK (EA) Do you advise students needing a visa for other study abroad programs? This session focuses on up to the minute information for France, Italy, Spain and the IK as well as explores best practices for education abroad offices. Chair: Stacy West, International Programs Coordinator, Willamette University Drugs, Driving Under the Influence, and Other Crimes – The Immigration Consequences of Criminal Activity Committed by F-1 Students and J-1 Scholars (ISSS) This session provides an overview of the immigration consequences of criminal activity. We cover the issues of inadmissibility and removability, criminal procedures after an arrest, consequences of failure to maintain status/overstays, and DSO reporting requirements for criminal conduct. We also provide strategies for remedies and a discussion regarding the non-immigrant waiver process. Chair: Bernard P. Wolfsdorf, Attorney at Law Wolfsdorf Immigration Law Group Presenets: Avi Friedman, Attorney at Law, Wolfsdorf Immigration Law Group Bob Ericksen, Director, Dashew Center for International Students and Scholars, UCLA Daniel Yoder, International Student Adviser, International Student Programs, California Institute of Technology Many Agencies, One Voice: DHS Answers Your Questions! Enter into a discussion about current and upcoming issues in international education. Find out how these issues will affect you! Representatives from various agencies within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security answer your questions! Chair: Dale Jepson Chief, Conference Planning Section, Organization Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) Presenters: Representatives from Department of Homeland Security Recruiting and Marketing in the Web 2.0 World-the 11/12 Update (RAP) Extremely popular at previous regional Conferences, this session provides an overview of the latest social media and web 2.0 tools and strategies colleges/universities should use in recruiting, engaging and converting prospective applicants and current students. The presenter provides an overview of available tools (Facebook, Twitter, and others among others), discusses the pros and cons of each, and then develops a basic social media and marketing campaign which the attendees are able to implement at their own school post-conference. Also discusses are geo targeting, social media advertising, and social media policy. Chair/Presenter: Keith Jolie, Business Development Manager, LearnHub (NAFSA global associate). Professional Development and Teacher Training Programs: Comparing styles through personal experience in the US, Europe and Latin America (TLS, IEL) This session explores the dynamic world of PD and TT Programs. The presenters are innovative educators with more than twenty years of experience teaching at Universities and K-12 schools. They have extensive experience in designing and implementing programs in the US and in other countries, through their work with the Fulbright Scholar Program and Teacher Trainers for the US Department of State. The presenters are colleagues at ACE Language Institute at Seattle Pacific University, an internationally recognized leader in ESL and group programs. They work with clients from theory to implementation, designing, customizing and running programs for in-service or pre-service teachers from any country needing to begin or enhance English instruction in their schools. Through their partnership with the School of Education at Seattle Pacific University, it is possible for their trainees to earn university level continuing education credits. Learn about their flagship program with Gangwon International Language Institute, in Korea. ACE professionals design the program content and schedule. The courses, ranging from Methodology in TEE (Teaching English in English) and Reflective Professional Development, are taught by ACE staff and local teachers. They contract with local elementary and secondary schools to arrange a teaching practicum for our trainees, where they work side-by-side with a US teacher, collaborating on lesson plans and classroom management. They also arrange all other aspects of the program, including lodging with host families or in a hotel, transportation, and cultural enrichment excursions around Seattle. Since the first collaboration with GILI in June 2009, they’ve trained a total of 100 Korean teachers. How can we measure the impact that the US experience has had on teachers upon returning to Korea? And how does this program compare to teacher training programs carried out in other world regions, such as Europe and Latin America? Dialogue with the presenters about their work in Spain, Panama, and Russia…it will challenge you to define the “ideal” teacher, and how this ideal might vary depending on the home country! Chair: Suzanne Tierney, Professor and Study Abroad Program Director, Seattle Pacific University Presenter: Sally Thomas, Director, ACE Language Institute, Seattle Pacific University Tight budget? Overwhelmed with work? Graduate student interns are here to save the day! (ISSS, EA) With growing budget cuts and limited resources, international programs and education abroad offices need to look to alternative sources for help. Graduate student interns are a great way for offices at any institution to finish projects (you know the ones you never get around to), get new insights, and assist emerging professionals. In this session, you will hear from both professionals and graduate students about their experiences supervising and interning. Presenters will also talk about the type of projects successfully completed. Attendees will learn how they can benefit from interns, where to find them, and how to prepare for one. Chair: Stephanie Noss Graduate Student Seattle University Presenters: Katrina Anaya Graduate Student/Coordinator for International Student Life Seattle University Sabrina Moss International Admissions Advisor & Credential Evaluator University of Washington Bothell Too High or Too Low? Setting the Right IELTS Score for Academic Success (ISSS, RAP) Recognized and used by thousands of U.S. institutions, IELTS is a valid, reliable, and secure English language proficiency test. This interactive session will help you better understand IELTS band scores and determine whether your institutions’ standards are appropriately set for your students’ academic success. The session will walk through the basics of the four IELTS modules and allow you to engage in a participatory rating exercise using examples from the academic test. Chair/Presenter: Amy Carter Marketing Manager IELTS International Bi-Regional Community College Roundtable (ISSS, RAP, Pan-NAFSA, ) Calling all Region I and XII community college NAFSAns! Come participate in an open, roundtable discussion about all things international education at 2-year institutions: recruitment, admission, preparation, education abroad, international student services, service learning, student success programs, and more. There will be updates from both regions, discussion questions, a chance to network and share best practices, and more. What questions, concerns, issues, examples, programs, approaches, and solutions do you have to offer? Start shaping the conversation today by e-mailing sheila.mullooly@chemeketa.edu with your focus in advance. Chair: Sheila Mullooly, Region I CC Rep, Chemeketa Language & Culture Institute Coordinator, Chemeketa Community College The Internationalization of Higher Education in China and USGE Program (ISSS, RAP, EA) This presentation introduces the internationalization of higher education in China in the past two decades and US General Education (USGE) program. Started with the brief explanation of development of China’s higher education, this presentation shows the rapid increase of Chinese students seeking degrees in overseas universities and colleges. It also demonstrates the increasing popularity of overseas students studying in Chinese universities since the late 1990s. Responding to this trend, Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) launched US General Education Program this year. This program aims to facilitate the student exchange, cooperation between China and the U.S. and the curriculum reform of China’s high education. This presentation describes the program and the implementation and sustainability of it. Chair: Kevin Zhang. Program Manager, Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange Presenter: Xiaojun Li, Deputy Director, Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange Managing Critical Incidents Abroad: Response Protocols Education abroad professionals face many challenges when dealing with health, safety and security incidents abroad. What happens when there is a critical incident abroad and what protocols are followed for both universities and third party providers? Using a case study approach, this interactive session will focus on response protocols to incidents abroad. Presenters will discuss how universities and providers navigate a crisis situation together, including the responsibilities of each party. Discussion will also address informed decision making, who gets involved in the process, potential liability, university travel policies, privacy issues such as FERPA, and good practices. Chair: Liz Partolan-Fray, Director, International Programs & Exchanges, Western Washington University Presenters: Candace Chenoweth, Director, Education Abroad and Special Projects, Washington State University Lisa Davies, Director, AIFS San Francisco; Regional Vice President, American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) Marty Greenham, Director of University Outreach, Institute for Shipboard Education/ Semester at Sea Hosting Saudis - Situations and Solutions For some home stay families, hosting students from the Middle East can be very challenging. The cultural and religious differences can cause conflict and misunderstanding. So, what makes a successful placement? Through a student questionnaire and host family case studies we will present common and successful strategies implemented by both host and hostee to create a happy home. Chair: Mackenzie Bristow, Center Director, ELS Language Centers La Verne Presenters: Ashlee Milby, Center Director ELS Language Centers Thousand Oaks Michael Larson , Center Director ELS Language Centers Thousand Oaks Denica Maravilla, International Student Advisor, ELS Language Centers Thousand Oaks New Media: Friend or Foe? (EA) In the age of digital media, there are many innovative means for communication – Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Gowalla, FourSquare, blogs, wikis, YouTube, Vimeo, and the list goes on! With such a wealth of new opportunities also come some challenges – Which media to use when? What are the main pitfalls to avoid—especially when targeting students from diverse backgrounds? Is this a beneficial use of time or a dark hole of distraction? Whether you primarily work with U.S. four-year college students, international students, community college students, or underrepresented students such as students with disabilities or from other diverse backgrounds, there is a creative communication strategy to meet your institution’s individual needs—all on a budget! This session tackles the who, what, where, when and why of social media, drawing upon experience from new media innovators, advanced technology advocates, and underrepresented student specialists in the field of education abroad. By the end of this session, you will have turned your new media foe into a well-utilized friend by learning strategies and techniques for reaching out and connecting your diverse audience through digital media. Chair: Kim Karalekas New Media & Research Assoc. Academic Programs International (API) Presenters: Donald White Web Developer Tradewinds Global Alisyn Henneck Executive Project Assistant/Social Media Coordinator Mobility International USA MacKenzie Hizon Director of International Outreach Green River Community College Serve NAFSA through Leadership (Pan-NAFSA) Interested in getting more involved in NAFSA and in International Education? Nearly 600 member-leaders volunteer for various NAFSA positions influencing public policy, the path of the organization, and the services provided to international educators. NAFSA Leaders are “every member” from very diverse experiences and all levels of expertise. Discover a myriad of volunteer leadership opportunities and meet other dynamic leaders like YOU. Chair: Bob Erickson Executive Director, Dashew Center for International Students and Scholars Organization, UCLA Presenter: Sandy Soohoo-Refaei Associate Director of International Programs Office Linfield College Adding Personal Responsibility to our Teaching Outcomes at the IEP IEPs have long included as goals of acquiring language and learning American culture for their students. As more, younger, and first-time-away-from-home students have arrived in these schools, IEPs have needed to add the student goal of Personal and Social Responsibility. In this session, the presenter will share the concrete steps taken in this regard. These steps include teaching modules, systematic and organized visits from law enforcement officers, dentists, doctors, and a variety of excursions to restaurants and other venues to teach, firsthand, expected behavior and language usage. Since implementing Responsibility as a Learning Outcome, our school has seen a marked and significant increase in better behavior, rare calls/comments of complaint from campus and community people, and happier students let alone less frustrated teachers and administrators. The presenter will also offer suggestions received from polling colleagues in the field, how to implement and hold students accountable, and how do it in a pedagogical, not demeaning way. Time for Q & A and other idea sharing and brainstorming will be reserved for the last part of the session. Chair/Presenter: Gordon Clark, Director, ELS Language Centers Pocatello Cultural Assessment Testing and Preparation for Chinese Students (ISSS, RAP, IEL) Retention of Chinese students often suffers from a lack of cultural preparation prior to arrival in the U.S. In collaboration with Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange, CollegeNET is developing an online cultural readiness test and resource guide for Chinese applicants. This session will explore how adaptive testing can be used to assess cultural readiness and provide an additional resource for applicants and admissions evaluators. Recognition of the value of cultural preparation at the time of application also assures Chinese applicants and their parents of the host university's commitment to cultural integration. Chair: Mark Trachtenbarg, Account Manager, CollegeNET Presenter: Celia Wagner, Director of International Programs, CollegeNET Living in the U.S.: American Culture 101 (ISSS, TLS) As most of us know, it takes a great deal of time, knowledge and understanding to learn to navigate and function in a new country. For the last three years, Student Affairs staff at the University of Southern California (USC) have been developing and using expanded intercultural orientation materials for use with both graduate and undergraduate students. This session will provide you with an example of a module-based curriculum of typical topics you can use to assist your international students in either a semester long class format or in a series of workshops. Sample topics include Using US Healthcare, Relationships US-style, the American Workplace, and US History,Values and Religion, etc. Chair: Rebecca Peterson, International Student Advisor, University of Southern California Scholar Focused Advisor-to-Advisor Roundtable (ISSS) Join other scholar advisors from Regions I and XII to discuss those topics which confound you on a regular basis. The round table session format is designed to maximize your time with colleagues, delving into tricky topics. It’s also a great opportunity for new advisors to get some of their questions answered in a less intimidating setting than the large update sessions. Topics are to be determined. Co-chairs/Facilitators: Carol Holz Associate Director University of Alaska Fairbanks Christina Luther, Associate Director, Portland State University Student Focused Advisor-to-Advisor Roundtable (ISSS) Join other student advisors form Regions I and XII to discuss those topics which confound you on a regular basis. The round table session format is designed to maximize your time with colleagues, delving into tricky topics. It’s also a great opportunity for new advisors to get some of the their own questions answered in a less intimidating setting than the large update session. Topics addressed usually include CPT, OPT, reinstatement, change of status…. This year we will likely include recertification as well. Co-chairs/Facilitators: Carol Holz Associate Director University of Alaska Fairbanks Christina Luther, Associate Director, Portland State University USCIS Transformation (ISSS) Representatives from the USCIS Office of Transformation Coordination will provide an overview presentation and answer questions about the new online account and filing system to deploy in December 2011. The first deployment will directly affect some students, scholars, and visitors in the United States and the work that NAFSA members do. Chair: Courtney Winship, ?????????? Recertification: Easy as Review, Sign, and Submit (ISSS) Representatives from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) will present information and guidance on Recertification. Highlights of this presentation include an overview of the Recertification process, Form I-17 ad judicable fields, updates, timelines, fee requirements and general instructions for a successful Recertification submission. SEVP representatives will also offer updated information on SEVIS II and Policy program initiatives. Chair: Dale Jepson, Chief, Conference Planning Section (CPS), Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) Presenters: Representatives from Department of Homeland Security (SEVP School Certification Branch) The Non-Immigrant Visa Process – TCNs, Tips for Avoiding Delays/Denials & Other Consular Updates (ISSS) A panel discussion covering the latest non-immigrant visa updates for students & faculty. Practical tips, advice, and travel strategies for non-immigrant visa applications at U.S. Consular Posts with a focus on the border posts in Mexico and Canada. We will also cover an overview of security checks and how to prepare to avoid delays/denials. Chair: Avian Friedman, Attorney at Law, Wolfsdorf Immigration Law Group Presenters: Bernard Wolfsdorf, Attorney at Law, Wolfsdorf Immigration Law Group Representatives from Consular Offices and from Department of State Not Mine, Not Yours, They’re Ours!: Collaboration….the Missing Link for Orientation Success. (ISSS, RAP) In an effort to serve the needs of all students (both domestic and international), Washington State University has taken steps to better understand how university and international orientation programs operate. Through shared knowledge and common goals, we have eliminated the Silo Effect and developed a purposeful orientation program. Join us as we share our collaborative journey through orientation planning and implementation. Chair/Presenter: Denise Keeton, Program Support Supervisor, Office of International Students & Scholars, Washington State University Customs and Border Protection: Getting In, Getting Through and Moving On (ISSS) This panel discussion will be a classic panel discussion with Customs and Border Protection officers from the Port of San Francisco. We will discuss the latest issues in student and scholar travel from a Customs and Border Protection perspective. The session will feature a topical discussion of PoE issues led by the moderator and then a question and answer session will follow. Chair/Facilitator: Brian K. Groves, International Scholar Adviser, Stanford University Presenters: Michael McGarrity, Officer, Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations San Francisco International Airport Paul Chien, Officer, Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations San Francisco International Airport Tanai Saefong, Officer, Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations San Francisco International Airport Education Abroad Newcomer’s session (EA) This session will introduce you to the basic resources available to you from NAFSA as an EA professional. Learn all about the region and the national organization has to offer, as well as pick up tips from seasoned NAFSAns on how to get the most out of the conference, the region, and the organization. Whether you are new to the field or just the region this is a great chance to meet some friendly faces. Co-Chairs: Candace Chenoweth (Region I EA Rep) and David Diamond (Region XII EA Rep) Presenters: TBA, various EA and Team leaders from Region I and XII Education Abroad Town Hall: Hot Topics, Happenings, and Updates (EA) This session will serve as a chance to meet your EA Reps, learn about important upcoming EA happenings in your region, engage with like-minded EA colleagues from Regions I and XII, and raise awareness about EA issues of importance to you. Co-Chairs: Candace Chenoweth (Region I EA Rep) and David Diamond (Region XII EA Rep) Presenters: TBA, various reps from EA Groups in Region I and XII Bring Honor to your International Campus (EA) Explore energized, cost-effective methods to enhance your campus internationalization efforts. Phi Beta Delta, the Honor Society for International Scholars, has moved its headquarters to Region XII. The new director presents the benefits to students, faculty and international education leaders which come from establishing a Chapter. Joining the national movement of Citizen Diplomacy is another way of bringing prominence to your internationalization goals. Hear about the outcomes of the national Summit in Citizen Diplomacy and how eager ngo and governmental partners are to mesh goals with those universities. Chair: Diane E. Elton, IEL Representative, Region XII, Diversity Abroad Network Advisory Committee Presenters: Barbara St. Urbain Coordinator, Intl. Std.Prgm Modesto Junior College Saraha Ross, Director of International Education, UCSD