Buffalo State’s Borderless Bengals Run Niagara Falls Marathon to Support Global Education

Representatives from the Michael and Nancy Chicola International Professional Development Schools Consortium (IPDS) participated in the 2024 Niagara Falls International Marathon in Ontario, Canada, on October 27, to raise funds for the program.

IPDS offers students and educators opportunities to experience schools and communities abroad including in Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Italy, Kenya, Rwanda, Spain, and Zambia. These transformative programs have provided over 250 participants who work with children and youth the chance to broaden perspectives, engage in global teaching, and build cross-cultural connections.

Since IPDS's establishment more than 12 years ago, Buffalo State's School of Education has alleviated program costs by providing travel support for each IPDS student. This funding comes from the generous donations of the Chicola family, as well as support from Buffalo State deans and departments. Many students supplement this assistance through campus scholarships and fundraisers aimed at reducing financial barriers for students seeking international experiences, like the one supported by Buffalo State's marathon team, the Borderless Bengals, this past weekend. Funds raised will help IPDS participants facing financial challenges cover international flight costs.

Marathon runner Brandon Kawa, director of the International Graduate Program for Educators (IGPE), served as team leader.

"Many students face significant financial barriers that make participating in study abroad difficult or impossible," he said. "Regardless of financial means, cultural background, or personal circumstances, everyone should have the chance to benefit from the invaluable lessons and global exposure that these life-changing experiences provide."

Kawa's spouse, Katherine, completed the half marathon, as did Pixita del Prado Hill, professor of elementary education, literacy, and educational leadership; Tamara Horstman-Riphahn, executive assistant to the dean of the School of Education; and Pamela Schuetze-Pizarro, professor of psychology. Catherine Beecroft, IGPE's registration and graduation coordinator, and her daughter, Grace, participated in the 10K, and Raquel Schmidt, associate dean of the School of Education, ran a virtual 10K from Buffalo.

"Training for and running a marathon is deep work, but our students work even harder to become effective global educators," said Kawa. "This fundraiser is just one way IPDS is working to make these opportunities sustainable and accessible for all students."

Since race day, IPDS has raised $2,700, with much of the support coming from IPDS alumni who appreciate the value and transformative impact of these programs.

"I'm grateful to have studied abroad in the Dominican Republic almost 10 years ago," said Jasmine Davis, '15. "That experience has had a lasting impact on my teaching career and administrative journey."

Kelly Glowny, '21, added, "The IPDS Chile and Italy trips made me the person and teacher I am today."

The fundraising page remains open through November 10, for anyone who would like to donate and help make international education accessible for all students.

Pictured, from left: Katherine Kawa, Tamara Horstman-Riphahn, and Pamela Schuetze-Pizarro.

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