September 9, 2024

Former Peace Corps Director Encourages Service for UMW Education Students

Former Peace Corps Director Jody Olsen spoke to University of Mary Washington students last week about the power of service abroad. The talk took place inside Seacobeck Hall, home to UMW's College of Education. Photo by Suzanne Carr Rossi.My first thought was to head for the door,” she said of the 1966 experience that ended up charting her course. Instead, “I said, ‘Good morning, I’m Mrs. Olsen,’ and my life began.”

She shared her longtime relationship with service last week with students at the University of Mary Washington’s College of Education (COE) in Seacobeck Hall. Plucking tales from her lengthy career, including her time as Peace Corps director amid the COVID-19 pandemic, she wove a theme. International experiences – especially teaching abroad with the Peace Corps – can build the foundation for richer careers in the classroom. Read more.