Global Respectful Disruption Mini Summit (GRDms)
_______ Without Exception
Takes Place virtually on December 12, 2025
COMPEAR.org and GoAbroad.com have teamed up to shed light on the experiences of underrepresented groups worldwide. Together, we aim to foster understanding and address not only issues within international education but also broader societal practices and policies that perpetuate inequality and discrimination.
Introducing the Global Respectful Disruption Mini Summit, a collaborative endeavor to unite individuals passionate about creating positive change through knowledge and dialogue within global education and beyond
Rooted in the theme Blank Without Exception, this one-day virtual gathering dares us to pause at the empty spaces, where certain words have been censored, sidestepped, or struck through. It’s about what’s unsaid in global education: the quiet removal of care, the sidelining of belonging, the dilution of bold ideas in favor of what’s ‘safe’ or palatable. But here, we reclaim the margins. We fill the blanks with people-first practices, with radical listening and bold action with scholarship that holds space, for everyone, and everything they carry.
Mini Summit Schedule
December 12, 2025
9:00 - 9:20 AM ET
WELCOME
Welcome from Summit Host and Co-Chairs
Start your summit experience with a warm welcome from the Host and Co-Chairs. This opening session sets the tone for the day, offers a glimpse into the heart of the Global Respectful Disruption Summit, and highlights what’s ahead.
Don’t miss this session, we’ll also be sharing important instructions on how to enter the exclusive grant and swag giveaway contests running throughout the summit. Winners will be announced in the Post-Summit Reflection, so be sure to join live and stay tuned!
Dr. Neal J. McKinney is a multifaceted educator, scholar, and practitioner with over 10 years of higher education expertise across education abroad, career development, and college-level equity, diversity, and inclusion. Dr. McKinney has become a thought leader in the study abroad field using critical theories (e.g., critical race theory, intersectionality, critical whiteness studies) to disrupt systems of inequity in international education that disproportionately impact the success of U.S. domestic and international students of historically marginalized backgrounds.
9:30 - 10:30 AM ET
SESSION
The Power of Choice: Autonomous Acculturation Approaches to International-Identifying Student Support
We believe there is no greater tool we can offer our students than choice. Understanding and using their power to choose is particularly critical for our international-identifying and multilingual students, who often report they feel little agency operating in the US higher education system. While our institutions broadly praise global diversity, they also set explicit and implicit expectations for students to act, speak, write, and engage in ways that center and reward US-specific cultural and linguistic norms.
Anne has taught English around the globe, from working with elementary schoolers in South Korea to supporting airline employees in Argentina. She holds a B.A. in English and Theater/Drama from Indiana University and a Master’s in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from SIT Graduate Institute.
At Brown University, Andrew works to enhance and uplift the experience of international undergraduate and graduate students through intersectional and intentional practice that centers advocacy and the international student voice. Andrew holds a Master’s in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership with a concentration in Global Studies in Education and a postgraduate diploma in Refugee Protection and Forced Migration Studies from the University of London.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM ET
SESSION
Access Granted: Empowering Disabled Pros in International Ed
Every single person is only temporarily able-bodied. This panel explores disability inclusion and advocacy in international education, emphasizing the empowerment of disabled professionals. Attendees will examine biases and improve accessibility in their offices, learning to advocate for themselves and colleagues. Participants will gain tools to balance needs, support others, and drive institutional change, fostering a more inclusive educational environment.
Katie Wiggins-Gawlik is the Assistant Director of Member Relations for US Exchanges at ISEP Study Abroad. She also volunteers as the Spain Country Coordinator on NAFSA’s EARP Consular Affairs Liaison Subcommittee, liaising to the Spanish Consulate in Chicago and the Italian Consulate in Detroit. Katie holds a master’s degree in counseling for student development administration and a bachelor’s degree in Spanish for secondary education. She is particularly interested in the effect of education abroad on the intersectionality of student identities and the role of intercultural education in transformative social justice. Prior to her role at ISEP, Katie held advising roles at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business and Ramapo College of New Jersey, and she lived and worked in Sevilla, Spain. In her free time, Katie enjoys cooking, gardening, and spending time with her family and three energetic dogs.
Katherine Haan, is d/Deaf with over 18 years of experience working in ISSS support, education abroad, grant writing, EDIA work, and disability advocacy work. She is also on the Committee on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism with the ICISP Study Abroad Consortium and the co-chair for International Education for Persons with Disabilities MIG with NAFSA.
Melissa completed a BA in French from the University of Iowa, and a MS in higher education from Indiana University and is a member of the Terra Dotta team. Her career is focused in international education with 14 years in international admissions and 8 years in education abroad. She has worked both in small offices as well as in large teams. She is proud of the support and visibility she’s been able to bring to topics such as underrepresented students studying abroad, undocumented students and support on college campuses, and supporting individuals with disabilities.
12:00 - 1:00 PM ET
LUNCH & LEARN
Male-nourished: A Phenomenological Case Study of the Study Abroad Experiences of HBCU, Black Male Undergraduates
Stephanie Tilley served as a 2023-2024 Fulbright U.S. Student Program Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg in the Ali Mazrui Centre for Higher Education Studies (AMCHES). She is a scholar practitioner who is committed to advancing scholarly research in comparative and international education and global Black studies.
1:30 - 2:45 PM ET
SESSION
Reflections of Change: GRDI Scholars' Journeys in Intercultural Leadership and Respectful Disruption
This session provides a platform for the inaugural cohort of Global Respectful Disruption Initiative (GRDI) scholars to share their journeys of respectful disruption. They’ll showcase reflective visual pieces they developed through the GRDI Leadership Program, highlighting how their intercultural experiences have shaped their approaches to social justice and respectful disruption.
Key Highlights:
- Collaborative Reflection: Scholars worked with mentors to develop creative visual presentations.
- Intercultural Influence: The focus is on how their intercultural experiences shaped their social justice views.
- Respectful Disruption: Scholars will discuss how they’ve applied these lessons to promote change in their personal and professional lives.
GRDI Scholars are emerging leaders who embody the spirit of respectful disruption—bringing forward bold ideas, fresh perspectives, and a commitment to transforming global education. Selected through a highly competitive process, some scholars receive funding to support international or intercultural programs during the summer, and all engage in leadership development and mentorship throughout the Fall term.
At the Mini Summit, we create space for scholars not only to share who they are, but to showcase the innovative ideas they are carrying forward. Their voices remind us why disruption matters and how transformation begins when the next generation of leaders is given room to lead.
Alexis Elise Graham is a multifaceted student leader, dancer, and aspiring physical therapist whose work bridges the arts, education, and healthcare. A Dance Education Intern with the Lyric Jackson Dance Company, she teaches ballet and assists in instruction under faculty mentorship. At Spelman College, Alexis is an active member of the Future Business Leaders of Spelman, the National Association of Black Physical Therapists, and the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, engaging in leadership, advocacy, and academic excellence. She mentors children through Ballet & Books, combining literacy development with dance-based storytelling, and performs with both the Spelman Dance Theatre and Spelman Jaguarettes, exploring works rooted in biography and feminist theory. Passionate about leveraging movement for healing, Alexis is committed to advancing in both healthcare and the arts, using her platform to inspire and empower communities.
Mimi Akong is a graduate student at American University and the Founder and Executive Director of the Her Empowerment Foundation (HEF), a nonprofit organization committed to advancing the health, rights, and socioeconomic well-being of women and girls in underserved African communities. She leads strategic planning, program development, and partnership cultivation, with a focus on initiatives such as menstrual health education and maternal care access. Through the MA Fund Initiative, Mimi ensures pregnant women in low-income areas receive essential childbirth resources. Dedicated to amplifying grassroots voices, she champions sustainable, community-driven solutions to address gender-based disparities.
Sophia Jade Kong is a Media Production major at Emerson College specializing in directing, producing, and cross-cultural storytelling. As Class of 2028 President, she leads student government initiatives, serves on the Dean’s Advisory Council, and strengthens student–faculty communication. In her role as Head of Distribution for the Frames Per Second Film Club, Sophia oversees marketing, global distribution, and festival programming, including an international partnership with Italy’s Premiere to showcase student films worldwide. She also serves as an International Student Residence and Academic Peer Mentor, guiding peers through academic, cultural, and housing transitions. An accomplished independent film producer and director, Sophia creates short films exploring identity, biculturalism, and underrepresented voices.
Cybele Wu is a client advocate and global education specialist with over a decade of experience in cultural adaptation, aging, and caregiving. She holds an Ed.D. in Instructional Technology and Distance Education, along with advanced degrees in TESOL and International Commerce and Policy. Cybele focuses on creating multicultural coaching programs to address caregiving and aging challenges in diverse communities. This summer, she will participate in the Global Respectful Disruption Initiative Scholars Program. For Cybele, respectful disruption means challenging inequitable systems while honoring diverse perspectives to drive meaningful change.
Jasmin Lemus-Bautista is a Pre-Commerce student at the University of Virginia. This summer, she will participate in a Study Abroad program in Valencia, focusing on Business in Spanish, and volunteer for a Medical Brigade in Belize. In Jasmin’s view, respectful disruption means instilling protection, education, and empowerment in disadvantaged communities by raising awareness and confidence to amplify the voices that want to make a change.
Na’Taliyah Edison is a second-year Comparative Women’s Studies major and Education Studies minor at Spelman College, originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota. This summer, she will study abroad in Florence, Italy, as part of an intercultural learning experience. For Na’Taliyah, respectful disruption means standing up and questioning systems or ideas that need change while staying grounded in your values. It involves advocating for justice in a thoughtful, authentic way that is rooted in respect for others.
Olga Fidele Teta (she/her) is a first-year student at Brown University studying Applied Mathematics–Economics. This summer, she will participate in the Brown Global Summer Program, exploring how international sporting events impact host cities and communities. To Olga, respectful disruption means challenging systems or ideas in a way that opens dialogue, not shuts it down. It’s about thoughtfully pushing boundaries, asking difficult questions with humility, and remaining open to others’ perspectives with the aim of building, not breaking.
KaLanna Phillips studies Biochemistry and Japanese at Grinnell College, currently working as a Patient Care Technician at MercyOne Genesis Medical Center with the goal of becoming a physician. This summer, she plans to attend the Middlebury Japanese Language School to strengthen her language skills and immerse herself in Japanese culture. KaLanna believes this program will help her navigate Japan intentionally as she prepares for study abroad. To her, respectful disruption is the quiet, consistent work of making room for others, especially when no one else does. It’s about creating spaces where everyone is seen and heard.
Mercedes Washington is a healer, educator, and adventurer pursuing her Ph.D. in Educational Studies at Chapman University. With a passion for advancing social justice and developing experiential educational curriculum, she seeks to explore the pathways from war to peace, particularly how nations transform pain into power, understanding, and progress. Respectful disruption, for Mercedes, is centered on leadership, travel, research, and oration to uplift the “Beloved Community” described by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As a cultural ambassador, she embodies curiosity and compassion while honoring the legacy of her ancestors.
3:00 - 4:00 PM ET
SESSION
200 Million Strong: Creating Pan-African Global Citizens in the Americas through Education and Exchange
With over 200 million Afrodescendants living throughout the Americas, the African Diaspora represents one of the largest, most diverse communities in the world. This session explores how global education can strengthen exchanges within the African Diaspora, fostering leadership, collaboration, and innovation to address shared challenges such as inequality, cultural preservation, and representation. The session will highlight successful educational and cultural exchange programs that have amplified Afrodescendant voices, empowered communities, and prepared emerging leaders for global engagement. By examining impactful partnerships and initiatives, attendees will gain valuable insights into creating opportunities that celebrate the Diaspora’s legacy while addressing systemic barriers to inclusion and equity.
Antoine Battle, TIEC’s Global Membership Specialist, is a globally minded leader passionate about international education and cultural diplomacy. A two-time participant in the U.S. Department of State’s Professional Fellows Program, he has worked with universities, governments, and nonprofits. He holds executive certificates from Georgetown and Florida International University and was active in Harvard’s Soft Power & Cultural Diplomacy Study Group.
Nyasha Franklin is an educator from Harlem, NY passionate about the arts and studying the African Diaspora. She leads short-term student travel experiences with World 2 the Whyze, a travel and education company helping travelers turn their fascinations into expeditions, using their curiosity to seek wisdom around the world.
4:15PM - 5:00 PM ET
SESSION
Post Mini Summit Reflection
Join us for a relaxed and open conversation to reflect on the insights, takeaways, and transformative ideas shared throughout the day. This is your chance to connect with fellow attendees, share your thoughts, and discuss how to carry the momentum of respectful disruption into your work.
Plus, don’t miss the announcement of the winners of our all-day swag giveaway—you must be present to win!
Mini Pre-Summit Events
November 13, 2025
Join Us for the Pre-Summit: Global Respectful Disruption Mini Summit! As we gear up for the Global Respectful Disruption Mini Summit on December 12th, we’re kicking things off early with a powerful Pre-Summit Experience you won’t want to miss.
PRE-SUMMIT EVENTS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO ALL.
12:00PM - 1:00PM ET
PRE-SUMMIT EVENT
VIRTUAL STUDY ABROAD FUNDRAISING SCHOLARSHIP BLOCK PARTY
Before the Global Respectful Disruption Mini Summit on December 12, join us for an hour that celebrates the power of community, courage, and global opportunity.
Hosted by the Global Respectful Disruption Initiative (GRDI) and the Fund for Education Abroad (FEA), this lively pre-summit event blends music, storytelling, and purpose to expand equitable access to international education.
Featuring DJ BeMore (aka Angela Schaffer, Executive Director of FEA), the Block Party will spotlight inspiring stories from GRDI and FEA Scholars—emerging leaders whose intercultural experiences abroad demonstrate how access and representation transform lives.
About FEA: Since 2010, FEA has awarded $4.6 million in scholarships to 1,300+ undergraduates, making study abroad possible for students who face financial and systemic barriers. FEA continues to be the only national independent non-profit study abroad scholarship provider funded solely through philanthropic support.
About GRDI: Powered by COMPEAR Global Education Network, GoAbroad.com, Kultural Kurators, and FEA, GRDI amplifies under-amplified voices in global education through mentorship, leadership development, and financial support, fostering a new generation of respectfully disruptive-driven global leaders. This Fall, out of more than 100 applicants, nine GRDI Scholars were selected and actively participating in the program. Three are receiving direct financial support for their intercultural journeys and six are engaging in leadership and professional development through GRDI’s mentorship network. Together, they embody what it means to lead with respect, creativity, and purpose.
Sponsored by COMPEAR.org, GoAbroad.com, and participating partners—this event is complimentary for all who register.
💡 Bonus Impact: Meeting the Moment Locally
We’re not just talking about access, we’re modeling it.
For every dollar raised during the Block Party for study abroad scholarships, COMPEAR will match up to $200 and donate it directly to the NCCU Campus Pantry, whose mission is to reduce the burden of food insecurity for the NCCU campus community. Compear will also match up to $300 raised for study abroad, which will be split between both scholarship funds.
Hannah Benson (She/Her/Hers) is an international educator and student advocate with over five years of experience managing programs in the U.S., Spain, and France. She currently serves as a Global Education Advisor at Georgetown University, where she supports students in navigating intercultural learning and global engagement. Previously, Hannah held roles with Barcelona SAE, the Fulbright Program in Andorra, and the Teaching Assistant Program in France, where she advanced student advising, program development, and inclusive learning initiatives.
A graduate of the Università di Bologna and the University of Strasbourg, Hannah holds a Master’s in European Literary Cultures with specializations in Italian Studies, Linguistics, and Modern French Literature. Fluent in multiple languages and active in professional communities such as the Global Respectful Disruption Initiative (GRDI) and Rainbow SIG, Hannah is passionate about expanding equitable access to international education and empowering students as global changemakers.
Kory M. Saunders (she,her,hers) is a lifelong learner of culture and has a keen interest in the connection we as people share between each other and the cultures in which we live. Kory is a proud graduate of Hampton University, an HBCU (Historically Black College or University), where she earned a B.S. in Marketing and a B.A. in Spanish and also earned an M.B.A from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, and an M.A in International Business with an International Marketing concentration from la Universitat de Valencia, Spain. Kory specializes in the areas of diversity, equity, inclusion, culture and belonging as well as programming. Kory has worked in both corporate and university settings. Kory is a sought after skilled presenter and workshop facilitator. She has presented at both in person and virtual conferences. Kory was the 2020 finalist for the Diversity Abroad, Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion in International Education Rising Star Award. Kory was the recipient of the NAFSA Region VII 2020 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in International Education Award. She was also the recipient of the NC State African American Culture Center’s Ebony Harlem 2021 Nkonsonkonson Staff “Sticks in a Bundle Award“. Kory is the creator of Kultural Kurators, a platform to amplify and uplift BIPOC folxs who have had global experiences. She is currently the Director of Cultural Engagement at AIFS Abroad.
Dr. Christina “Chris” Thompson (she/her/hers) is an award-winning international educator and justice-centered advocate. She serves as Founder and Managing Director of COMPEAR Global Education Network and an IDEA and Intercultural Consultant with Be Equitable Inc. Chris consults with partners around the globe to implement strategic diversity and intercultural interventions. With nearly two decades of experience in higher education, she has led international education, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at public and private institutions. Her expertise includes instructing courses on intercultural preparation for education abroad and reflection courses in London, Spain, China, Cyprus, the Gambia, and New Orleans. As an EAKC NAFSA leader and chair of the EAKC Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Subcommittee, Christina is also a member of FORUM and CAINE’s Climate Justice Working groups, a NAFSA mentor, and a frequently invited speaker for WISE, NAFSA, Diversity Abroad, and FORUM on Education Abroad. Christina holds a MA in Liberal Arts from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a concentration and research in Global Literary Studies at Mannheim University in Germany. She has completed a Doctoral degree in the study of Respectful Disruption Leadership Practices in Global Spaces for Positive Change from Marymount University.
Angie Schaffer is the Executive Director of the Fund for Education Abroad. An international educator, grants professional, and entrepreneur, Angie holds a Master of Arts degree in International Education Policy. Throughout her studies and career, Angela has focused on creating opportunities for historically-excluded students and connecting international educators with U.S. classrooms. She has written several articles about the value of experiential learning and exchange, and has led education abroad programs and workshops in Japan, India, South Africa, Rwanda and Mauritius. Angie is based in her hometown of Baltimore, Maryland.
1:00PM - 2:00PM ET
PRE-SUMMIT GLOBAL RESPECTFUL DISRUPTION MINI LAB FEATURED SPEAKER
Self-Preservation without Exception
The work of Respectful Disruption is courageous, transformative—and often exhausting. For frontline workers such as educators, social workers, healthcare professionals, activists, and community leaders, the emotional labor of confronting racism, bigotry, and systemic injustice can quietly erode well-being. This workshop is a radical invitation to prioritize your healing. No exceptions. No apologies.
Self-preservation is not selfish—it’s essential.
In this restorative space, we’ll honor the toll this work takes and offer practical, compassionate tools to help you replenish, recalibrate, and reclaim your peace.
What You’ll Gain:
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Clarity on the psychological effects of racism and discrimination in everyday interactions—and how they manifest in your body and mind.
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Tools to identify and reduce emotional triggers that lead to anxiety, burnout, and compassion fatigue.
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Resilience-building strategies rooted in neuroscience, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care.
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Guided healing practices to help you release anger, restore emotional balance, and reconnect with your inner calm.
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This is your space to reflect, restore, and remember: you deserve the same care you give to others.
Don’t miss this session, we’ll also be sharing important instructions on how to enter the exclusive grant and swag giveaway contests running that day and throughout the summit. Winners will be announced in the Post-Summit Reflection, so be sure to join live and stay tuned!
Dr. Stacey Pearson-Wharton is a respected psychologist, dynamic speaker, and passionate advocate dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations toward emotional wellness, resilience, and authentic growth. With over 25 years of professional experience and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Pennsylvania State University, Dr. Stacey currently serves as Dean of Health and Wellness at Susquehanna University, where she shapes environments that foster holistic well-being. Her insightful presentations have inspired audiences nationwide, earning acclaim for their relatable storytelling, powerful psychological insights, and practical strategies.
Deeply committed to advocacy and community transformation, Dr. Stacey has led impactful counseling initiatives, including Turning Point Counseling Center in Michigan and the h2Cares Counseling Ministry in Sunbury, Pennsylvania, promoting healing, recovery, and resilience. Her dedication to mentorship and community support is exemplified through ongoing work with young professionals, college students, and her active involvement with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Through these efforts, she continually uplifts marginalized communities, championing inclusivity and emotional health.
As the host of the podcast Being the Dot, Dr. Stacey amplifies diverse voices and shares strategies for people of color navigating predominantly White spaces. By combining her academic expertise, compassionate leadership, and authentic voice, Dr. Stacey Pearson-Wharton continues to transform lives, helping individuals and organizations move confidently from survival to thriving.