CEA CAPA was proud to participate in the 2026 NAFSA Annual Conference in Orlando, FL, joining international education leaders from around the globe to exchange ideas, share research, and advance the field. Our team contributed thought leadership across a range of timely topics, underscoring our shared commitment to student success, equity, and innovation while also learning from and with our colleagues in a variety of settings.
Members of our team delivered impactful sessions, including Measuring the Career Impact of Education Abroad (Martha Johnson, PhD) and Embedding Career Readiness Across the Education Abroad Journey (Megan Randall, M.A.), both highlighting how global experiences translate into workforce readiness. Nancy Tumbarell explored emerging technology in AI-Driven Solutions for Education Abroad Risk Management, while CISaustralia’s Brad Dorahy facilitated a reflective conversation for education abroad community members in Community Dialogue: The Positive Pause: What’s Working in Our Field? Kyle Rausch, EdD, led two sessions: Designing Global Insight: Transformative Learning Through Fulbright IEA Awards and Missions, Margins, and Mobility: Whose Values Define Our Decisions? challenging attendees to think critically about access, values, and institutional priorities while also sharing details about how to engage in new professional development opportunities.
Beyond presentations, CEA CAPA was honored to support vibrant community engagement through sponsorship of key affinity and networking events, including the CANIE Happy Hour, the BMcPIE gathering, the Rainbow SIG Reception at Anthem, and the Global Leadership League Pop-Up.
A highlight of the week was Access Amplified, our co-hosted breakfast with the Fund for Education Abroad (FEA). This dynamic session centered on expanding access to education abroad, with rich discussion on creative funding models, inclusive program design, accessibility considerations, first-year abroad programming, first-generation student engagement, and the role of study abroad in career readiness. Attendees shared actionable strategies and reaffirmed a collective commitment to removing barriers and broadening participation.
NAFSA 2026 reinforced the power of collaboration and innovation—and CEA CAPA is energized to continue advancing equitable access to global education. We can’t wait to return to Los Angeles next year!