What a fantastic week in Oaxaca for the 2026 AIEA Leadership Academy. We’re grateful to the faculty, participants, sponsors, and partners who made this experience possible.
This year’s Academy marked an exciting milestone as the first cohort hosted outside of the United States. Oaxaca provided an incredible setting for learning and connection, with opportunities to engage with the region’s art, cuisine, culture, and community throughout the week. More than anything, the Academy reminded us that leadership development happens not only in sessions, but also through conversation, curiosity, and shared experience.
One of the most meaningful aspects of the week was the openness and willingness participants brought to the experience. There was a real sense that we were all learning together. As we often say, we are all novices and we are all experts. Participants generously shared ideas, challenges, and perspectives, creating a strong cohort grounded in trust, reflection, and collaboration. We are especially excited that participants left with concrete action plans to address a challenge or opportunity at their own institutions and also look forward to some of the 2027 Conference Sessions stemming from this event.
There was a real sense that we were all learning together. As we often say, we are all novices and we are all experts.
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and partners for helping create such a memorable experience. Special thanks to Arcos Learning Abroad for sponsoring a wonderful cooking class and dinner with the unforgettable Tia Jaqui at her restaurant Sabor Antiguo. Participants enjoyed an incredible meal and experienced Arcos’ intentional approach to culturally immersive programming. We also extend sincere thanks to API, a Diamond Sponsor of the AIEA Annual Conference and close organizational partner, for making our closing dinner possible. It was wonderful to spend time with Jimena Alvarez de Toledo and for participants to connect with her throughout portions of the week in such an organic and meaningful way.
The Academy faculty once again made the experience exceptional. Paulo Zagalo-Melo brought his thoughtful and grounded approach to navigating complex issues such as sustainable budgeting models and institutional strategy, helping participants better understand both the realities and possibilities of leadership in international education. Jane Gatewood joined as shadowing faculty, and we deeply appreciated her insights, generosity, and willingness to share her experience and ideas for strengthening the Academy moving forward. Cristina Alfaro shared innovative models and perspectives throughout the week while also serving as an extraordinary host in Oaxaca, generously connecting participants to local people, places, and experiences that helped ground the Academy in a true sense of place. We also extend our gratitude to San Diego State University and to Luis Murillo for his generous sharing of insight and support throughout the week.
This year also marked the final Academy as faculty member for Amir Reza. Amir’s engaging facilitation style, creative simulations, warmth, humor, puns, and legendary dad jokes have been a hallmark of the Academy experience for years, and he will be greatly missed.
Amir’s engaging facilitation style, creative simulations, warmth, humor, puns, and legendary dad jokes have been a hallmark of the Academy experience for years, and he will be greatly missed.
The Academy has also been shaped by the contributions of many past faculty members and volunteers over the years. We extend sincere appreciation to Cheryl Matherly, David di Maria, Nell Pynes, Harvey Charles, Pia Wood, and the many others who helped build the Academy into what it is today. We are also grateful to the AIEA Professional Development and Engagement Committee and the Academies subcommittee for their ongoing support and guidance.
Beyond the sessions themselves, this cohort built strong connections through shared experiences and a spirit of fun and curiosity. From mezcal tastings and night market visits to rooftop conversations, Michelin-starred meals, and dressing in traditional clothing during the cooking class, participants embraced the opportunity to unplug, connect, and reflect together. In many ways, the week reminded us of the transformative experiences we hope our own students have abroad.
We leave Oaxaca with deep gratitude for everyone who contributed to this year’s Academy and are already looking forward to next year.
Beyond the sessions themselves, this cohort built strong connections through shared experiences and a spirit of fun and curiosity. From mezcal tastings and night market visits to rooftop conversations, Michelin-starred meals, and dressing in traditional clothing during the cooking class, participants embraced the opportunity to unplug, connect, and reflect together. In many ways, the week reminded us of the transformative experiences we hope our own students have abroad.
We leave Oaxaca with deep gratitude for everyone who contributed to this year’s Academy and are already looking forward to next year.
The AIEA Leadership Academy is where rising international education leaders build the network, strategy, and confidence to drive internationalization forward. Join colleagues and Academy faculty for a week-long immersive experience of transformative professional development, shared learning, and networking opportunities. Learn more about applying and how to join the next cohort.
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