I firmly believe that inspiration can be discovered in various corners of the globe. To keep our students engaged and motivated, staying informed about global trends in education and cross-cultural exchanges is crucial. Each year, I make it a point to attend numerous international education conferences, seeking the best resources and building an extensive network for collaboration to ensure La Salle offers comprehensive and extensive programs to our students.

Every spring, you'll find me at the Global Education Benchmark Group (GEBG) annual conference on Global Studies and International Exchange. Here, I engage in robust conversations with area experts and school program leaders worldwide, focusing on curriculum design, program planning, and resource sharing. Another conference that remains a priority for me is the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), the world's leading organization for study abroad opportunities and grants. Last but not least, the Annual Convention of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) is a personal favorite. With approximately 7,000 professionals and educators in language education, international exchange, and global studies gathering each year, it provides a platform for sharing knowledge, program models, resources, and the latest technological innovations in language and international education.

In addition to physical conferences, I actively participate in online workshops and webinars, often engaging with other area experts and school leaders in in-depth discussions on program building and resource sharing. This active involvement in networking and learning allows me to bring fresh and innovative insights to our educational programs at La Salle, ultimately sparking curiosity and enthusiasm in our students.

My pursuit through these platforms also enables me to enhance my credentials as an influential advocate for global competency education. It validates my expertise and equips me with the most advanced tools and knowledge to continually improve our curriculum and teaching methods.

In essence, my overarching objective is to serve as a source of inspiration for our students by sharing the ongoing story of my personal journey in continuous learning and cultural exploration. As an educational leader, I view myself as more than just an administrator; instead, I see myself as a living testament to the transformative power of education and global awareness. By being a role model for them and showcasing the importance of understanding and appreciating the world, I hope to kindle a similar passion for global awareness in their hearts.

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By: Jialin Sun "Sunny"