About Us
URep Abroad was created in 2010 by Dr. Shawntia Key, who, as an undergraduate, struggled to find resources for Black students traveling abroad and wanted to create content for those needing support. After working in international education (IE) for over fifteen years, Dr. Key realized there was a lack of intentional community spaces to uplift, inspire, and support underrepresented international educators and professionals. URep Abroad was founded to construct an affirming space that supports emerging and experienced leaders while fostering an ethos of trust and ensuring everyone has a seat at the table.
URep Abroad Staff
Dr. Shawntia Key
(she/her/hers)
Shawntia has more than ten years of experience in international education with professional expertise in student advising and leadership, senior management, strategic planning, international partnership, and program development.
Shawntia received a Doctorate in higher education management with her dissertation focusing on Black American Undergraduates Studying Abroad: What Are Their Intentions and Behaviors?
Shawntia also has a Masters in international education, a Bachelor in international studies, and a TESOL certificate. As of 2021, Shawntia has traveled to Aruba, Canada, China, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, India, Italy, Ireland, Japan, London, Mexico, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, and several states in the United States of America. Learn more about Shawntia and her professional experiences at www.shawntia.com
Dawn H. Wooten
(she/her/hers)
Dawn has 15+ years of progressive experience working in international education administration. Access, equity, and diversity shaped her educational career as a first-gen college student. Developing win-win partnerships comes from years of volunteer, member, and committee service with well-respected organizations ACPA, FAIE, IASAS, IIE, NACAC, NAFSA, NASPA, NCDA, NODA, SHRM, and the Partners of the Americas.
Dawn’s educational journey began at the local community college, then on to a BA and MA in History, an MA in Nonprofit Management, and an Executive Education Diploma in Social Innovation. As a student, she studied abroad in France, Italy, Japan, Mexico, and the Netherlands.
Before URep Abroad, she worked at NAFSA: Association of International Educators, The George Washington University, Florida Atlantic University, and several nonprofits.
Did you know?
URep is a double entendre meaning “you represent” and “underrepresented.”
This creates our slogan:
“You Represent the Underrepresented.”
What is International Education?
International Education (IE) prepares leaders to be active and engaged participants in creating positive intercultural understanding, peace, and responsible world citizens. IE has many definitions, but the general criteria include: promoting cultural competency (intercultural communication, global awareness, language), increasing intercultural understanding and respect of differences, and encouraging tolerance through self-identity and social cohesion. It is important to note that definitions in IE reflect US usages and are not always clearly defined in international spaces.
There are many career routes within IE with most organizations categorizing areas of focus into five communities based on NAFSA’s International Competencies.
Education Abroad (EA)
Education and work in study abroad, including work, internships, volunteering, service-learning, and educational travel.
International Education Leadership (IEL)
The weaving of international, intercultural, and global dimensions into the philosophy of higher education.
International Enrollment Management (IEM)
Admissions, recruitment, enrollment management, credential evaluation, sponsored program administration, and overseas counseling.
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)
Supports international students, visiting scholars, and international faculty with immigration advising and support services.
Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship (TLS)
Research that informs practice, and intercultural communication for IE professionals.