Blogs

By GIA Center

The GIA Center has welcomed several new members to our global community. Take a few minutes to get to know them!

Margaret (Mo) Burke

Assistant Director

A few key things you do at UD: I will be working to support and develop on-campus, local, and virtual global and intercultural learning opportunities; some of my responsibilities will include collaboration and support with the Dialogue Zone, Diversity Peer Educators, and the Global Learning Living Community. 

Hometown and favorite place in the world:  I was born right here at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. My favorite place in the world is Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica.

Why global & intercultural education? My time in Europe in 2016 paired with my Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Costa Rica in 2017 was a transformational experience that opened my eyes to the endless possibilities that are encompassed in being a globally competent citizen, and I strive to help other young adults find opportunities to have equally transformational experiences with humans from different corners of the world. 

Favorite book, movie, or song about global & international themes: As cheesy as it may sound, I love Waka Waka by Shakira because 1) Shakira (duh!) 2) World Cup (amazing opportunity to see the pride that individuals have for their country / their country's soccer team), and 3) it's super catchy.

One thing you can't live without: My passport

_________________________________________________________________

Dr. Brenna Seifried

Assistant Director

A few key things you do at UD:  Though I have been in both faculty and staff roles at UD since 2009, I’m excited to contribute to the development of global partnerships, to develop on-campus student programming and Faculty/Staff engagement in global and intercultural learning, as well as to work on special projects and committees that help to advance the Center’s global and intercultural learning priorities. I also love teaching as an adjunct in the TESOL Program in SEHS.  

Hometown and favorite place in the world: I was born in New York, but lived much of my life in Madrid, Spain, and Atlanta, Georgia. My favorite place in the world is Cusco, Peru. They call it el ombligo del mundo (the bellybutton of the world) and it has the most magical energy and welcoming people!

Why global & intercultural education? I’m a third-culture kid, so I think it’s probably part of my DNA. My MA is in applied linguistics, and then my PhD focused on the experiences of migrant teachers of English in Mexico. The intersections of language, culture, and education have always fascinated me. It’s more important than ever to develop intercultural skills that will lead us towards a more kind, just society, bringing different voices to the table and facilitating connections that allow us to learn about ourselves and others. 

Favorite book about global themes: I really enjoyed Robin Wall Kimmerer’s Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Wisdom of Plants. Carlos Fuentes’ El Espejo Enterrado is a favorite that I keep going back to. I’m also a big fan of Neruda, Borges, and Gabriel Garcia Marquez. 

One thing you can’t live without: Coffee! 

_____________________________________________________

Catherine Kline

International Student Advisor

A few key things you do at UD: I'll be both advising students and working on programming for the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office. 

Hometown and favorite place in the world: I grew up in Bolivar, OH. Choosing my favorite place in the world is hard, but Zaragoza, Spain, where I lived and taught for a year, has a special place in my heart. 

Why global and intercultural education? I chose to work in international education at UD, because I've always been interested in international affairs. I graduated from UD with a degree in INS and POL and also minored in SPN. I have also spent my career teaching in some capacity. I taught English in Spain for a year. When I returned to the States, I continued teaching as I provided supplemental education to underserved families in Canton, where I was able to serve both English and Spanish speaking students.  Another reason why I want to work with international students is because I had a memorable abroad experience while studying, and I want to help guide international students and give them a wonderful experience at the University of Dayton. 

Favorite book about global themes: My favorite book, A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. 

One thing you can’t live without: I can't live without my cats! They make waking up early and winding down after a long day so much more enjoyable. 

_______________________________________

Maria Jay

Global Learning Advisor

A few key things you do at UD:  I will be co-managing the Study Abroad Fair and handling advising and recruitment for education abroad and away programs. 

Hometown and favorite place in the world: I was born in Saint Petersburg, Russia, and adopted at nine months old. My hometown is Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and my favorite place in the world is Hawaii!

Why global & intercultural education? I studied abroad in Russia and worked as a World Associate in the International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) office in my time as a student at UD. Additionally, I earned my Master's degree in International Business from the University of Florida. So, global and intercultural education is very near and dear to me.

Favorite book, movie, or song about global & international themes: My favorite global songs are again near and dear to my heart and they come from Sergei Prokofiev, a Russian composer, pianist, and conductor. I learned of him when I completed my “23andMe” profile and spoke to a distant cousin who lives in the UK whose great grandfather was Mr. Prokofiev. I play french horn, and enjoy his work so much I've even purchased them on vinyl for my record player.

One thing you can’t live without: I can't live without my one year old cat, Willow, or my emotional support water bottle :)

_____________________________________________________

Abdullah Dashti ("Dash")

Programs Coordinator 

A few key things you do at UD: I work on faculty-led short-term programs, assisting with logistics so their travel is well-planned and runs smoothly. 

Hometown and favorite place in the world: Bangkok or Kuwait: I grew up in both. My favorite place in the world is Norway!

Why global & intercultural education? Being different every place I go made me learn a lot. I want other students to experience and enjoy it too.

Favorite book/movie/song about global/international themes: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a favorite book. The Grand Budapest Hotel is a great movie with global themes. Bob Marley and The Wailers' One Love is such a great song. 

One thing you can’t live without: Water