The US Department of State recently presented the University of Minnesota (UMN) with the English Language Specialist Top Producing Institution Award during the 2024 TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) International Convention. The award was presented to the University for having the largest number of English Language Specialists selected to participate in 2023, and advancing US foreign policy objectives and educational exchange.
Two of the three UMN educators who served as specialists are from the College of Continuing and Professional Studies: Catherine Clements and Stephanie Hanson, both of whom are senior teaching specialists with the Minnesota English Language Program (MELP). Clements also is a PhD candidate in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD). The third educator is CEHD Professor and Carmen Starkson Campbell Endowed Chair for Innovation in Teacher Development Martha Bigelow.
“It's an honor to accept this award for the University of Minnesota, and I am grateful to have played a role in achieving this recognition, which is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the instructors here," says Clements. "As a three-time English Language Specialist for the Department of State, I am very proud of the impact our projects have had, especially our work with teachers and the English Access Microscholarship alumni in Mexico.”
Since 1991, the English Language Specialist Program has fostered intercultural exchanges by sending highly trained TESOL experts to consult on short-term, high-level projects throughout the world. An average of 250 specialists work in more than 80 countries each year.
Susan T. Bell, Director of the Office of English Language Programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs for the US Department of State describes that work: “Through English language exchanges and programs such as the English Language Specialist Program, US educators engage global audiences, build critical thinking and 21st-century skills, enrich the global knowledge network, share US culture and values, celebrate cultural diversity, and bring a deeper understanding of global issues and international perspectives back to US classrooms and communities.”
“It's an honor to accept this award for the University of Minnesota, and I am grateful to have played a role in achieving this recognition, which is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the instructors here."
Hanson, who worked on a hybrid project with English teachers and administrators from Mexico from February to June 2023, shares: "I have grown as a teacher and teacher trainer as a result of my deep dive into project-based learning and service learning. I got to spend some more time in Mexico and learn more about its rich history and culture.”
In March, Hanson and two of her 24 Mexican teaching colleagues were selected to give presentations about their shared projects at the TESOL Convention. Clements gave two presentations about her work with the English Access Scholarship Program.
“The conference is such an inspiring professional development opportunity and a great networking event," says Hanson. "Whenever I attend I am re-energized and reminded about my ongoing commitment and interest in the TESOL profession.”
Photos courtesy Catherine Clements and Stephanie Hanson
