IES Abroad and AIFS Launch $150,000 Grant to Expand Access to International Education Conferences

IES Abroad and American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS) have partnered to launch a new professional development initiative aimed at expanding access to key conferences across the field of international education.

Through the Giese Taylor Professional Fellows Grant, IES Abroad and AIFS will contribute $150,000 over the next three years to support higher education administrators and faculty in attending leading conferences hosted by NAFSA: Association of International Educators, The Forum on Education Abroad, and DA Global.

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IES Abroad

Expanding Access to Professional Development

These conferences provide essential opportunities for international educators to stay informed on policy updates, engage in professional development, and build meaningful peer networks. However, recent budget constraints and staffing shortages have made attendance increasingly difficult for many professionals.

The Giese Taylor Professional Fellows Grant aims to remove these barriers by making participation possible for those who might not otherwise have access.

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“Access to global education opportunities should not stop with students. Just as we prioritize access for students, it is equally important to invest in the professionals who guide and support them. This is an important initiative for the field. By helping educators gain knowledge, build networks, and share best practices, we strengthen the entire field of international education. We are grateful to partner with AIFS on an effort that closely aligns with the IES Abroad mission, our values, and hopes for the future. As I often say, study abroad changes lives, and changed lives change the world.”

Dr. Gregory D. Hess, President & CEO, IES Abroad
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Honoring a Legacy

The program is named to honor the internationalist and founder of AIFS, Sir Cyril Taylor, and co-founders of IES Abroad, Clarence and Alberta Giese. The Gieses, along with Sir Cyril, each devoted their professional careers to international education and exchange, with a special focus on developing exceptional young leaders to expand the field and its positive impact on global education and world peace.

"Continuing our momentum from the first round of grants is an important step for professional development in international education and education abroad during this critical time. These grants will enable professionals to connect with colleagues and expand their networks while they learn about the latest developments in the field." -William L. Gertz | Chairman of AIFS

About the Grant

This offering is open to all full-time U.S.-based education abroad professionals, with special emphasis on individuals who are employed at Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and two-year institutions.

The first application will open in May 2026, with the first cohort awarded funds to attend the DA Global Impact Conference in November 2026.

Read more about the Giese Taylor Professional Development Grant.

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