This poster session highlights results from a study investigating how organizations support LGBTQIA+ students in study abroad. Organizations (n = 64) identify their strategies to support LGBTQIA+ student throughout the study abroad student journey: marketing, pre-departure, advising, in country support, and re-entry. Key findings show no demographic data capture, reactive advising strategies, and collaboration with …
Not able to make it to NAFSA in person this year? Please join the Rainbow SIG for a virtual pre-NAFSA restorative circle! Sign up here: https://forms.gle/Bo6pT99WvhR6o8Z79 Restorative circles create a space for equal opportunity sharing, shared power, and active listening. Through a facilitated process, we will engage in deeper conversation guided by open-ended questions from …
Discuss with colleagues how to encourage diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (DEIA) for education abroad in an increasingly anti-DEIA environment.
Join Rainbow SIG for our Annual Business Meeting, featuring membership, financial, and general updates, as well as elections. Location: Room 2, San Diego Convention Center
Join Rainbow SIG and COMPEAR - Global Education Network at GoAbroad's booth (#2119) for a low-key hour of networking and socializing, immediately following our Annual Business Meeting. This is a great opportunity to learn about Rainbow SIG and connect with the Co-Chairs and other leadership members. Location: GoAbroad.com Booth (#2119)
In celebration of the 35th anniversary of the American with Disabilities Act, a panel of early career international exchange professionals with diverse disabilities share their experiences with access and inclusion. They offer strategies and future aspirations to build more inclusive cultures for international education professionals and participants.
Body diversity is a vital (and often overlooked) topic in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts for international education. Antifatness and size discrimination create inequitable experiences for plus-size students. This session explores the impact of systemic antifatness on study abroad and offers strategies to make programs more inclusive and accessible to diverse body types.
Back by popular demand, Rainbow SIG is once again sponsoring a queer history walking tour of our NAFSA host city! This event will be limited to 25 registrants. We will be paying per person, so please only sign up if you are positive you will attend. Event Information: WHO? All current and future Rainbow SIG members are welcome! …
The most-anticipated reception of the NAFSA: Association of International Educators conference is headed to San Diego; Join us May 28th for an evening of community, fundraising, and drag! Arrive early for a free drink ticket and limited edition Rainbow SIG stickers while supplies last! Rainbow SIG swag will be available for purchase. A suggested donation of …
Posters highlight innovative diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, programs, support services, and resources to assist colleges and universities in expanding international education opportunities and participation among nontraditional populations.
This session outlines how education abroad professionals can allow for students to be their most authentic selves abroad and embrace queer joy. Panelists share personal narratives from students and colleagues, highlighting how their queer identities helped guide them through their study abroad experience and into the professional world.
This session equips participants with strategies to respond to identity-based incidents abroad and promote safety, resilience, and inclusivity. Through guided discussions, case studies, and practical demonstrations, attendees learn key response components, the importance of predeparture training, and techniques for field professionals.
In this session, audiences can learn about NAFSA’s Representation, Inclusion, Support and Empowerment (RISE) Fellowship Program. RISE fellows will share how the fellowship has helped their professional development. There will be an overview of the program, mini storytelling session among participants, and Q&A. Location: SDCC Room 7A
Explore with colleagues the importance of preparing students to engage with conversations about U.S. politics and social movements during their time abroad.
Join this interactive session to explore the topic of identity and better understand how to help students cultivate identities as global citizens. Together, reflect on how identity can be salient when traveling abroad and how identities may shift after return. Expand awareness of social and projected identities and build vocabulary in articulating how those identities …
Attacks on LGBTQ+ people are on the rise, fueled by national hate groups pushing for the freedom to discriminate without consequence. Trans, non-binary, and queer communities are facing increasing levels of stigma, violence, and systemic barriers. A wave of anti-trans legislation is targeting basic rights, seeking to block access to safe restrooms, gender-affirming healthcare, participation …
Supporting LGBTQ+ students abroad requires culturally aware guidance and proactive planning. This webinar empowers study abroad professionals with the tools to navigate destination-specific challenges, address safety concerns, and uphold students’ dignity, privacy, and protection. Learn how to foster inclusive, informed support systems that help LGBTQ+ travelers thrive while studying abroad. Registration is Required (Free)
In an era of rapid global change, education abroad professionals must be equipped with tools and strategies to navigate disruption and foster student success abroad. Through interactive sessions and expert insights at this day-long seminar, participants will gain an understanding of how global events and shifting geopolitical priorities influence the education abroad experience. Hosted by …
The 2025 Leadership Institute invites LGBTQ+ leaders to gather in community, grounded in purpose and mutual support. This year, we center collective care, trans and gender expansive leadership, and intersectional learning as vital pathways for sustaining ourselves and one another. In a time of political uncertainty and cultural change, we lean into connection — building …
Join Rainbow SIG for trivia, fierce drag performances, a silent auction, and lots of fun! All proceeds raised from this event will support Rainbow SIG’s critical work and scholarship initiatives. This event is made possible thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, Rainbow SIG members, community partners, and YOU!!!