Join Gateway throughout the year as we host small gatherings, including luncheons and dinners, in conjunction with major international education conferences in the U.S. and abroad, such as NAFSA, AIEA, and EAIE. These events provide an ideal setting to make new connections and exchange insights in a collegial atmosphere. Join us to expand your knowledge and contribute to the collaborative spirit that defines international higher education. Gateway Gatherings go beyond being mere events; they serve as a platform for expanding your professional network and deepening your understanding of the international educational landscape.
At the EAIE 2025 Annual Conference in Gothenburg, Gateway gathered international education leaders for a dynamic luncheon on the future of language learning in education abroad. As student interests evolve and new technologies emerge, the discussion focused on keeping language study a vibrant and essential component of global education.
The session, featuring guest speaker Dr. Maria Teresa Alonso, founder and president of the Spanish Institute for Global Learning, explored reframing language engagement, the impact of artificial intelligence, program models that integrate language, and the connection between language, identity, and belonging.
Thank you to the Spanish Institute for sponsoring this important conversation!
At the EAIE 2025 Annual Conference in Gothenburg, Gateway and Terra Dotta co-hosted an evening reception that brought together leaders in international higher education for drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and networking in one of the city’s most distinctive venues. The gathering provided an engaging atmosphere for exchanging ideas, strengthening partnerships, and building new connections.
Partnerships were a central focus of the evening. Representatives from Terra Dotta, including Chief Executive Officer Ben Psillas, highlighted the importance of collaboration and effective partnership management, while also sharing a preview of some of the company’s upcoming initiatives in this area. Their engagement underscored the growing importance of innovative approaches to sustaining and scaling global engagement.
Thank you to Terra Dotta for generously supporting this special gathering!
At the NAFSA 2025 Annual Conference in San Diego, Gateway gathered international education leaders for a powerful conversation on the role of integrated degree programs in shaping the future of global recruitment. As students begin their education abroad and transition to U.S. campuses, these models have strong potential to diversify pipelines and support evolving enrollment goals.
Moderated by Dr. George F. Kacenga, Vice President of Enrollment Management at William Paterson University, the session examined how such programs can enhance access, affordability, and institutional growth while positioning U.S. campuses to succeed in a competitive global landscape.
Thank you to edept for sponsoring this forward-thinking gathering!
With growing interest in scalable, cross-border programs, this Gateway Gathering at NAFSA 2025 examined how international online education can open new pathways for revenue generation and global impact. The conversation focused on reaching working professionals in key markets—especially China—through high-quality, flexible degree offerings.
Moderator Mr. Charles Iannuzzi, President of Global at Beacon Education, led a strategic discussion on how institutions can navigate financial, operational, and partnership considerations when expanding into the international online space. Participants explored approaches for long-term growth, global engagement, and sustainable enrollment strategies.
Thank you to Beacon Education for making this conversation possible!
India’s rapidly evolving higher education sector is reshaping global engagement strategies, and this Gateway Gathering at NAFSA 2025 provided timely insights into that transformation. The session focused on India’s expanding international influence and the implications of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 for universities around the world.
Moderated by Dr. Abhishek Sinha, Dean and Professor at UPES School of Law, the discussion explored new opportunities emerging from India’s push for global partnerships, increased student mobility, and academic collaboration. Drawing on his expertise in legal education, international affairs, and institutional strategy, Dr. Sinha offered a forward-looking perspective on India’s role in the future of international higher education.
This event was generously sponsored by InUni, the recruitment division of Global University Systems.
At The Forum’s Annual Conference 2025 in Toronto, Canada, Gateway hosted a thought-provoking gathering exploring the shifting landscape of language learning in international education. The luncheon addressed key challenges and emerging opportunities—from the impact of AI to evolving university models and the role of experiential learning.
This gathering was facilitated by Dr. Maria Teresa Alonso, President and Co-founder of the Spanish Institute for Global Education. A passionate advocate for language and cultural immersion, Dr. Alonso guided a dynamic conversation that inspired fresh thinking around the future of language education in study abroad.
Thanks to the Spanish Institute for Global Education for sponsoring this event!
At the 2025 AIEA Annual Conference in Houston, TX, Gateway hosted an engaging gathering centered on international enrollment management, highlighting innovative partnership models, emerging trends, and best practices for building sustainable recruitment strategies.
This gathering was facilitated by Dr. David Di Maria, Associate Vice Provost for International Education at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. A recognized leader in international enrollment management, Dr. Di Maria’s expertise set the tone for a thought-provoking and valuable conversation.
This event was generously sponsored by InUni, the recruitment division of Global University Systems.
As the demand for international learning and engagement grows, so does the urgency to address its environmental impact. Can international education embrace sustainability without compromising mobility? Our discussion with Authentica at the AIEA 2025 Annual Conference examined this pressing question, highlighting innovative strategies, practical solutions, and emerging trends that aim to balance these priorities in an ever-evolving educational landscape.
Thank you to Authentica for sponsoring this Gathering!
Our Gateway Gathering reception at the 2024 EAIE Annual Conference in Toulouse, France was an exceptional evening filled with international higher education leaders from around the world. The event, sponsored by Terra Dotta, gave conference goers a chance to unwind with a steady flow of French wine, hors d’oeuvres, and a stunning panoramic backdrop.
At the NAFSA 2024 Conference in New Orleans, LA, Gateway orchestrated insightful gatherings focused on enrollment, international health, safety, and risk management; international partnerships; first-year abroad programs; and international student success.
This gathering was facilitated by Dr. Kacenga, who has been a champion of international higher education approaching 20 years. Currently, he is the Vice President for Enrollment Management at William Paterson University of New Jersey and the past president of the Association of International Enrollment Management (AIRC). Thanks to InUni for sponsoring this event!
At the NAFSA 2024 Conference in New Orleans, LA, Gateway orchestrated insightful gatherings focused on enrollment, international health, safety, and risk management; international partnerships; first-year abroad programs; and international student success.
‘This gathering was facilitated by Dr. Zazyafoon, who is a multifaceted professional, an Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology, and the Assistant Dean for International Medical Education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Dr. Zayzafoon’s impressive academic journey includes earning an MD degree from Damascus University, Syria, a Ph.D. in physiology from Michigan State University, and an MBA from UAB. Thanks to Terra Dotta for sponsoring this event!
As global job markets evolve, students and institutions alike are placing greater emphasis on career outcomes as a key factor in international education. In this remote gathering facilitated by Craig Kench, we focused on how the traditional drivers for student mobility — such as cultural immersion, language acquisition, and intercultural competency — seem to be changing in favor of a greater emphasis on career readiness. Specifically, the focus is shifting to equipping students with globally relevant soft skills, such as adaptability and problem-solving in diverse contexts.
The discussion was based in part on this recent article, 
LinkedIn
Learn more about Gateway Gatherings at, LinkedIn
In this remote gathering, Dominic Berardi, Vice President of Government Relations, and Shelley Landry, Senior Director of Government Affairs at Shorelight, led a discussion on predicting global student mobility trends. They provided insights into policy perspectives guiding international enrollment planning for India and China until 2030, exploring the anticipated shifts, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future landscape of higher education.
The third installment in this series, this remote Gathering will convene a small group of senior international educators for an exploratory discussion of the role of SIOs (Senior International Officers) in addressing the widening gap between academic preparation and workforce expectations.
Dr. Anthony C. Ogden, Founder and Managing Director of Gateway International Group, will be facilitating this discussion which will pave the way for a paper or issue brief on this topic.
At the AIEA 2024 Annual Conference in Washington, DC, Gateway orchestrated an insightful gathering that explored the Senior International Office (SIO) role in addressing the growing “career gap” between academic preparation and career readiness.
Dr. Anthony C. Ogden, Founder and Managing Director of Gateway International Group, facilitated this discussion which paved the way for a paper or issue brief on this topic.
This Remote Gathering convened a small group of senior international educators for an exploratory discussion of the role of SIOs (Senior International Officers) in addressing the widening gap between academic preparation and workforce expectations.
Dr. Anthony C. Ogden, Founder and Managing Director of Gateway International Group, facilitated this discussion which will pave the way for a paper or issue brief on this topic.
This dynamic discussion, expertly facilitated by Sherif Barsoum underscored the growing role of data in shaping international education strategies. We explored the use of critical data, common gaps, and the innovations we need — particularly in areas such as: Advocacy, Alumni Engagement, Benchmarking, Strategic Planning, Annual Reporting, Outcomes Assessment, Grant Proposals, Institutional Rankings, UN SDG Tracking, and more.
A key takeaway? AI-powered data aggregation is rapidly transforming how we approach these challenges. As international educators, how can we harness data more effectively to drive impact?
Curious to be part of conversations like this? Explore Gateway International Group, LLC. LinkedIn
Thank you to Via-Trm for sponsoring this Gathering!
Gateway is proud to have a team of highly professional and experienced professionals who possess comprehensive expertise in international higher education.
Each Gateway Gathering is made possible through the generous support of leading international education organizations. Our sponsors want to contribute to thought leadership, connect with targeted international education professionals, and encourage professional networking around a central theme or topic. Gateway Gatherings are designed in close collaboration with our sponsors.
Conference Gathering
Gateway coordinates exclusive invitation-only gatherings held in conjunction with upcoming conferences. These gatherings, typically featuring lunch or dinner, take place at a private venue conveniently located in or near the conference venue. Gateway expertly handles all arrangements and extends invitations to 10-12 carefully selected international education professionals.
Remote Gathering
Experience the convenience of a Gateway-organized invitation-only remote gathering. Held in an interactive Zoom session, each online gathering brings together 6-8 carefully selected international education professionals. Gateway manages all aspects, from invitations to facilitation, ensuring a seamless and engaging discussion.
Gateway recommends choosing a pertinent and captivating theme for our Gatherings— a theme designed to attract guests while showcasing our sponsor’s expertise. Each Gathering usually includes an invited speaker or facilitator who leads participants in an engaging and forward-looking discussion. Gateway takes care of professionally designing materials that outline the program agenda, speaker bio, and an introduction to our sponsor. Sponsors are welcome to distribute information packets and coordinate the inclusion of branded promotional items as thoughtful gifts for the guests.
Leveraging its expansive affiliate network and professional connections, Gateway excels in curating an exclusive assembly of esteemed and well-connected international education professionals for its events. The selection process is meticulous, focusing on individuals recognized for their professional prowess and past contributions in areas aligning with the chosen theme. Invitations extend to a carefully chosen group from a list collaboratively developed with our sponsor. In the context of conference Gatherings, maintaining an ideal balance for networking and discussion typically involves inviting 10 to 12 guests. For remote Gatherings, an optimum range is usually 6 to 8 guests.
While our Gatherings are exclusive and invitation-only, Gateway actively promotes each event to enhance visibility. Promotion strategies encompass various channels, including featuring sponsor banner advertisements in our Gateway Edge newsletter, incorporating the sponsor banner in the footer of all Gateway email correspondence, and highlighting the event on social media and the Gateway website. These comprehensive promotional initiatives are designed to not only build awareness of Gateway Gatherings, but also foster familiarity with our sponsors within the international education community.
Gateway hosts remote Gateway Gatherings throughout the year! We select pertinent themes for online discussions with select leaders in international education. These remote gatherings offer on-demand and real-time discussions on pressing topics relevant to our shared profession. Don’t miss the chance to participate and contribute to advancing thought leadership in our field.
Dive into a nuanced exploration of the global discourse surrounding higher education in the United States. Join us for a panel discussion with esteemed international educators as we embark on a journey through the lenses of culture and international perspective, examining how global audiences interpret and engage with the ‘anti-woke’ discourse within the context of U.S. higher education. This engaging panel discussion will delve into the intersections of culture, ideology, and education, and the complex landscape of how international audiences perceive the ‘anti-woke’ narrative that has emerged within U.S. academia.
Whether you’re a senior international officer, or simply curious about the diverse viewpoints shaping U.S. higher education, this podcast episode will provide an invaluable space for critical analysis and insightful conversations.
Fanta Aw is a distinguished leader in international education, renowned for her extensive contributions to global learning, cross-cultural understanding, and educational equity. With a deep commitment to fostering connections between diverse cultures and promoting educational excellence, she has significantly impacted the international education community.
Fanta Aw’s career has been characterized by her dedication to advancing global education initiatives, promoting diversity and inclusion, and nurturing partnerships that transcend borders. She has held influential roles in various organizations, advocating for the importance of international collaboration and learning experiences that empower individuals to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
As a thought leader and visionary, Fanta Aw’s insights and expertise have shaped discussions on the future of international education, emphasizing the significance of equitable access, cultural exchange, and lifelong learning. Her work has not only elevated institutions but has also inspired countless individuals to embrace the transformative power of global education.
Date: September 14th, 2023
Time: 12 noon ET
An experienced global researcher and administrator, Mark Beirn brings a critical approach to risk management, factoring structural racism and identity-based violence into his rubric for supporting equitable global mobility.
Specialization Areas:
– Global Risk Management
– Education Abroad
– Diversity, Equity, Inclusion in International Education
– Health and Safety
– Curriculum Development
Stephen Appiah-Padi is an international educator with several years of teaching and administrative experience in both 4 and 2-year HEIs. An experienced global education practitioner-scholar, with a demonstrated history of success in the field.
Dr. Appiah-Padi has a Ph.D. from the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada in Educational Policy & Administration with a specialization in International/Intercultural Education.
At Northwestern College, he provided oversight in the administration of education abroad and international student services. In Lansing, Michigan, he first oversaw diversity and intercultural education at Lansing Community College, and later created the Center for International and Intercultural Education (CIIE) which merged intercultural engagement and international education programs of the institution, and he became its first director. Additionally, Dr. Appiah-Padi taught a course, “Diversity in the American Workplace”, to undergraduate management students of the College. In his current position, he provides leadership and vision in advancing strategic internationalization initiatives, including international partnerships and study abroad programs at Bucknell University.
Dr Appiah-Padi has created and facilitated several workshops for faculty and staff development in higher education and in business organizations. He has presented at several national and international conferences. In NAFSA, among several volunteer leadership positions, he has served as Dean of the Fundamentals of Intercultural Communication Workshop, the Leadership Development Committee member, Chair of the Africa Special Interest Group, and a Fellow of the Global Fellowship Program for mentoring emerging leaders of internationalization in African HEIs. He currently serves as a member of the NAFSA Board of Directors.
Dr. Rosa Almoguera has worked as an international educator for over twenty years. She was trained as a Hispanic Philologist at the Universidad Complutense, in Madrid, and did her M.A. at the University of Pennsylvania. Her Ph.D., from Universidad Complutense included a field study and edition of written balladry “Romancero”. During many years Rosa combined teaching and her role as a senior administrator at the Fundación Ortega-Marañón in Toledo, Spain. At the Foundation, Rosa directed and, in many cases created, programs for the University of Minnesota, Notre Dame, Princeton, Ohio State, Arcadia, and the University of Chicago. She has also been a visiting professor at the University of Minnesota, University of Portland, and Interamericana de Puerto Rico.
Beginning in 2016, Rosa works as an international education consultant for both public and private European and US higher education institutions. Rosa has been successful in developing new partnerships and programs, as well as helping improve already existing ones.
Rosa is a member of Forum and NAFSA and has presented with higher education professionals on innovative academic and research programming, STEM in study abroad and Nationalism in Europe. Rosa is currently completing the final Professional Certification from the Forum on Education Abroad.
