Howell oversees the College’s strategic plan for global education and teaches courses on 19th and 20th-century Russian and Latin American history. Passionate about fostering global citizenship and critical thinking, she collaborates with colleagues, students, and partners to advance Flagler’s mission and vision for international academic exchange.
How does your office or department contribute to the College's overall success? And who are the primary individuals or groups you serve, and how do you support them in your role?
The College’s Center for Global Education (CGE) is dedicated to helping students develop global competency, preparing them for success beyond Flagler. We offer various pathways to achieve this, including studying and traveling abroad, taking culturally diverse classes at Flagler, learning new languages, working abroad in internships, and participating in globally themed campus activities. The CGE supports students every step of the way, providing access to study, travel, and internship programs and guiding them through the entire process.
What inspired you to pursue a career in higher education, and what aspects of Flagler's atmosphere initially attracted you?
As an undergraduate, I never considered a career in higher education— I don’t think I even knew what it entailed! After graduating, I realized I wasn’t ready to jump into full-time work. My favorite professor, Dr. Barnett, encouraged me to attend grad school. During grad school, I started thinking about teaching at the college level. Flagler caught my eye because of its strong focus on student success and the close professional relationships between faculty and staff. Plus, the beautiful campus was a huge draw!
What initiatives or projects are you currently working on?
- International Internships: We are partnering with global companies and cities to offer summer internships abroad for up to five students each year. Interested students can contact us at global@flagler.edu for more information.
- Global Ambassador Program: We are creating a program for students passionate about international education to work with the Center for Global Education as brand ambassadors.
- New Website: Check out our new, user-friendly website to explore and apply for global education opportunities: https://flagler.campuscommunity.app/public/login/. This site allows students to connect with peers who have previously participated in these programs!
- Strengthening Partnerships: We are enhancing our relationships with global institutions to offer study abroad opportunities at the same tuition cost and securing more funding options to help offset expenses.
How do you see international academic exchange and global education shaping the future of higher education?
In my opinion, Global education efforts are THE future of higher education; it is the path forward for all disciplines. Our world is increasingly interconnected, and we must provide ways for students to experience these connections before graduation. Global education allows students to develop self-awareness, empathy, knowledge, and access. Simply put, global education cultivates better humans.
How have you adapted or expanded your skillset to thrive in this dynamic environment?
I have engaged in various professional development opportunities, connected with field experts, and identified mentors along with aspirational institutions. I rely on collaboration with colleagues across campus and other institutions to succeed, rather than working in isolation.
Where do you see the most significant positive impact of your work, and what do you find most rewarding about your job?
Helping students understand that global education isn’t one-size-fits-all allows me to tailor our programs to their needs. I love seeing students light up when they discover the opportunities available to them. Even better is when they return to plan their next adventure! The most rewarding part of my job is helping students. Period. Sometimes, they come to me for unrelated matters, and I’m just happy they know my door is always open. I’m a staunch advocate for student success!
Can you share a stand-out memory from your time here or an accomplishment you're especially proud of? And what made this moment significant for you?
In 2022, I was scheduled to take a group of students on a FlagSHIP program to Russia. We had planned to go in 2020 and 2021, but Covid prevented us. Then, just months before our departure, Putin invaded Ukraine. I didn’t want to cancel on the students yet again. Thankfully, I was able to create a study abroad program for Eastern Europe, focusing on the impact of Communism’s legacy through the lens of three different countries: Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. The students were incredibly resilient and flexible, reminding me of the joys, heartaches, and benefits of studying abroad.
On a personal level, I was selected to join the Association of International Educators Administrators Senior International Officers Academy in 2023. This highly selective academy placed me among top administrators in global education. I was honored to be in the company of world-renowned leaders who could help me build a top-level program at Flagler College.
What are your favorite activities or hobbies that help you relax and recharge outside of work?
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family. We work out together (nothing says family like a bit of friendly competition), attend sporting events, and enjoy beach days. Our family is passionate about basketball, especially the Flagler Women’s Basketball team—we spend a lot of time cheering them on! I also enjoy working out while listening to audiobooks and podcasts. I’ve been known to run a few extra laps just to finish a good book or podcast!
