AWR International
ABOUT
Adam Rubin
Founder and Principal
AWR International leverages experience and connections on six continents and 40+ countries to help clients address international challenges, cultivate relationships, develop new international programs and services, and strengthen their global engagement around the world.
We collaborate with schools (all levels) and international educational organizations in areas such as strategic planning, program development, study abroad management, exchange agreements and institutional relations, program evaluation, risk management (health and safety), enrollment management, cross-cultural communication, intercultural training, staff development, and curriculum design. Recent projects include program development and strategic planning projects with a leading study abroad organization, an Ivy League institution, an organization focused on promoting study abroad access to minority students, an overseas study abroad and custom program organization attempting to develop its U.S. institutional relations, and an international culinary school.
With a strong background in strategic development, project management, and cross-cultural communication, we can also provide companies with support as they expand into new countries and work to overcome cultural challenges impacting their business outcomes and global relationships. Tailored market research, staff training and development, and cultural support services are designed to help strengthen collaboration, find mutually beneficial solutions to problems, and improve business outcomes.
I've been exploring cultures and connecting with cultures around the world since childhood. My adventures have taken me from Walla Walla, Washington to all 50 U.S. states and 70 countries globally. My career has included executive and senior leadership roles at a leading international education organization, the development of more than 150 innovative academic and experiential programs on six continents, management of diverse global teams in 40+ countries, and significant experience connecting students, faculty, and professionals across cultures.
I spent many years living and working on a college campus and served in a variety of student affairs leadership positions, allowing me to gain a strong appreciation for high quality academic programs, superior student support, and a vibrant campus community that celebrates diverse academic and cultural interests, dialogue, and opportunities. During my 20-year tenure with the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), a leading international educational exchange organization, I served as the on-site director of the Tokyo study center, managed the organization's institutional relations team, and directed program development, management, and evaluation efforts across CIEE's global program portfolio. I also led the institutional relations and student services teams at The College of Global Studies at Arcadia University, recognized as one of the leaders in study abroad for U.S. students. These experiences allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the diverse academic and personal needs of today’s high school and college students and the challenges and opportunities facing schools, universities, and study abroad organizations around the world. I've also worked at Road Scholar, the leader in the educational travel industry, developing and managing international adult and inter-generational programs for lifelong learners and their grandchildren.
I’m energized by opportunities that allow me to create new ideas, processes, and projects that help enhance peoples’ lives and lead to successful outcomes and results for organizations. I enjoy connecting people and ideas across cultures, exploring diverse perspectives, finding common ground, and celebrating differences in order to help build bridges and achieve positive outcomes.
EDUCATION
Stanford University
M.A. East Asian Studies
Whitman College
B.A. Economics
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
NAFSA Association of International Educators
Forum on Education Abroad
World Affairs Council
Diversity Abroad
More...(Please see C.V.)