From February 3–5, Search Associates (SEARCH) was proud to attend and serve as a major sponsor of the annual conference of the Association for the Advancement of International Education (AAIE) in Washington, D.C. The 2025 AAIE Global Leadership Conversation, held at the Grand Hyatt Washington, provided three days of impactful professional development under the theme "Leading with Agility" and created the perfect setting for international educators to connect face-to-face.
Representing Search Associates at the conference were CEO Jessica Magagna, IT Support Specialist Gavin Magagna Hawk, Director of Consulting Services George Entwistle, and Senior Consultants Lana Al-Aghbar, Diana Martelly, Brent Mutsch, and Eric Sands. They joined hundreds of educators and school leaders from around the world in a series of enriching discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities.
A Thoughtfully Curated Experience
As has been true for so many years, thoughtful and purposeful planning by the AAIE team and AAIE Board fostered a wide range of enriching experiences. Keynote sessions, Head Talks, Deep Dives, Coaches’ Corner, and the Leadership Learning Lab (L3), along with social events, provided invaluable opportunities for participants to learn with and from colleagues worldwide while also deepening established professional friendships and forging new ones.
AAIE gathered a diverse and inspiring array of keynote speakers and session leaders who presented relevant, innovative, and thought-provoking topics. These discussions facilitated engaging and meaningful conversations among the 500+ participants, creating a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment.
The Growing Role of AI in Education
One major focal point of this year’s conference was the rapid advancement of AI technology and its impact on humanity, international schools, and student learning. Key sessions explored the evolving role of AI in education, addressing both the opportunities and challenges it presents. Speakers and attendees engaged in discussions about how AI-driven tools can enhance learning, improve school operations, and shape the future of teaching and leadership in international schools. The increasing reliance on AI in the education sector sparked both excitement and critical conversations about ethical considerations, digital literacy, and preparing students for an AI-driven world.
The USAID Withdrawal: A Sobering Reality
During the conference, news broke that the U.S. government had begun withdrawing USAID personnel and rolling back DEI initiatives which had a profound impact on the international school community. This announcement sent shockwaves through the conference, as many educators expressed deep concern over the implications for USAID-supported schools worldwide.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) plays a critical role in supporting global education by providing funding, training, and resources to schools in developing nations. The sudden withdrawal of support raised urgent questions about how schools would navigate funding gaps, enrollment challenges, and diminished resources. Engaging with school leaders during these discussions allowed us to gain deeper insights into their challenges and determine how we can best assist them in the future. The collective sense of dismay among conference attendees underscored the broader global trend of reducing educational support at a time when inclusivity and access to quality education remain pressing issues.
For Search Associates, this moment reinforced the importance of collaboration, advocacy, and ensuring our member schools receive the support they need to continue thriving despite shifting political landscapes. Mark Ulfers, Head of the Office of Overseas Schools, was present and worked diligently to answer as many questions as possible during these challenging times. Search Associates also met with several Regional Officers of the Office of Overseas Schools, along with Marc Ulfers, to reinforce our working relationship with the department and offer our assistance and support during this critical period.
Honoring John Magagna’s Legacy
This year’s AAIE conference was also profoundly personal for Search Associates. It marked the first time in several decades that our Founding Director, John Magagna, was not in attendance. As an integral figure in the international education community, John’s contributions as an educator, Head of School, and the visionary behind Search Associates were widely recognized. His far-reaching impact was acknowledged by many throughout the conference, as colleagues and friends reflected on his dedication to advancing international education.
Representing both John’s enduring legacy and the values he instilled in Search Associates, his daughter Jessica Magagna and grandson, Gavin Magagna Hawk, were there to continue the work he so passionately championed. Their presence was a testament to Search Associates' ongoing commitment to supporting international schools, fostering strong partnerships, and ensuring that John's vision for quality education remains at the heart of everything we do.
Looking Ahead
While this year’s conference was both inspiring and sobering, it reaffirmed our mission to partner with outstanding international schools and educators. The ability to connect with leaders worldwide and engage in critical conversations about AI, global education policy, and school leadership was invaluable. Search Associates remain dedicated to providing the highest level of support to our schools and candidates, even in the face of evolving challenges.
As we look ahead, we recognize that the world is changing, and with it, the political landscapes that directly impact the international school community. We will continue to champion innovation, advocate for the needs of our member schools, and uphold the legacy of excellence that John Magagna built. At Search Associates, we are steadfast in our commitment to the fundamental values of democracy and human rights, understanding that as an international education community, we must collectively champion these principles to ensure a more inclusive and just future for all. The 2025 AAIE Global Leadership Conversation was a powerful reminder of the resilience and commitment of the international education community, and we are proud to be part of this ever-evolving landscape.
