Dawn Wood brings global experiences and perspectives to her post
–By Brooke Lindner, Kirkwood News Service
An education professional with 15 years of experience committed to promoting international exchange has joined the Kirkwood team. Dawn Wood recently began work as the international programs director.
Wood came to Kirkwood from the University of Iowa where she was the director of the MBA for Professionals and Managers Program in Cedar Rapids. She has also served as the assistant director of the International Student Center at San Diego State University and taught English as a Second Language (ESL) in the Czech Republic.
“We are very excited about Dawn joining the Kirkwood family to lead our international department,” said John Henik, associate vice president of instruction. “She is already working on new international opportunities for Kirkwood.”
Wood received her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Psychology with a Certification of International Business from the University of Northern Iowa. She then earned her Master’s in Intercultural and International Management at the School for International Training in Brattleboro, Vermont.
In a recent conversation with Wood, she looked ahead to program and proceeds at Kirkwood.
What attracted you to Kirkwood?
I have heard a lot of great things about working at Kirkwood and this is the job I have always wanted. There is only one position of this kind available at every institution. I am honored to fill this opening and become a part of this college.
What do you look forward to the most as you begin your journey at Kirkwood?
Meeting great people!
How will you benefit Kirkwood’s international department?
By continuing to increase global opportunities. I think one student can make a difference in the world, so just making sure we keep the global opportunities growing will be very beneficial.
In your opinion, how does Kirkwood differ from other colleges?
By the great commitment we have towards our mission and vision. For example, there is a scholarship available for every student who wants to study aboard and not many colleges offer that.
If you could leave tomorrow and go any place in the world for one week, where would it be and why?
This is a tough one. For me, it is not so much the place I go, but the learning opportunities and relationship potential of the place. I choose to go somewhere that I know I can build a meaningful relationship that will create the most opportunities for students. I am not sure yet where this place is but look forward to figuring that out.
Why do you think international studies are important to Kirkwood?
I think it is important for students to learn outside of the classroom. This type of experiential learning can be executed through the wide range of opportunities available through Kirkwood’s international studies.
Describe a personal experience from traveling abroad that has influenced you the most?
All of them! Each experience brings a new personal growth. If I had to choose just one, it would probably be the first time I went out of the country to Mexico. After my first experience in another culture, I was hooked and realized that this would be my life’s work.
What are your specific goals for the study abroad programs at Kirkwood?
I would like to increase study abroad opportunities overall. Develop more international relationships with overseas institutions. Encourage Kirkwood students to study abroad for a semester as well as short-term.
What do you enjoy doing in your free-time?
I like to go hiking, listen to music, read books, travel (of course), and spend time with my kids.
What keeps you motivated?
Seeing the results that make changes and differences in someone’s life keeps me motivated. I like to see people grow and learn through experience.
What advice would you give to a student for their first time studying abroad?
Treat the experience seriously and realize it can be the biggest learning opportunity of your life. Take time to allow yourself to step outside of your comfort zone and see things from another’s perspective.
Wood can be reached by phone at her office in Linn Hall, (319) 398-5443 or by e-mail at dwood@kirkwood.edu .