Did you know I am also a sea captain? When I was 22 years old, I set off around the world on a small sailboat. My goal was to prove to the world that kids in schools could connect with travelers on a worldwide journey. I had a co-captain and a crew of educators with me on the journey.
Our boat was named “Makulu” and she is 43 feet long. Can you imagine living on a small boat like that? We sailed around the whole world. It took us two years. Every day, we communicated with students using text messaging. By the time we got back to the United States, we had proved that it is possible to bring the world into classrooms using technology!
For 25 years since then, I have been leading Reach the World. Meeting new people, learning about new cultures, and experiencing new environments are my biggest passions. I feel lucky to get to share these passions with so many students and teachers through Reach the World.
Last year, a great organization called The Explorers Club gave me an award for my work. I felt so excited and honored! This month, The Explorers Club sent me out on an expedition to Greenland. I am on an amazing ship in the Arctic right now! While I am here, my job is to give lectures, or talks, to the guests. I am also connecting to students back home, like you!
I am excited to learn more about you when we meet by video conference, so I will start by sharing a little bit more about me. I have one sister, her name is Hilary and we are eight years’ apart. My sister works for another great global organization called “National Geographic.” Have you heard of it? Our mother’s example meant so much to both my sister and me. Do you have a role model in your life who inspires you?
