State Organizations and ISF Speakers Build Meaningful Connections

 
        Have you thought about what the word “international” means in DKG Society International? Society members reside in one of the 17 different countries in DKG. Do you wonder about the women from one of the 16 countries other than your own? Are you curious how their experiences might be the same as or different from yours? One way to connect with one of the amazing educators from other countries is to host an international speaker at a state organization convention, conference, or meeting. Along with broadening their knowledge of a relevant subject, your state organization members will learn about her country, its education system, and some of the cultural activities specific to the peoples who live there.

If your state organization leaders have not thought about hosting a speaker and have not reviewed the list sent to state organization presidents in October, you may want to discuss the concept with them to get their input and start putting plans in place. Although most speakers are requested for a conference or convention, an ISF speaker can be requested for an event beyond these sessions. ISF speakers can provide members with new learning opportunities throughout the year.

Here are a few tips to ensure a successful ISF experience for state organizations:

1.       Read and carefully fill out all relevant forms on the DKG website and submit them prior to the deadline date (May 1 or November 1).
2.       Contact your speaker as soon as she has been assigned and welcome her to your state organization.
3.       Inform the speaker where she will be staying and presenting and provide all contact information to her.
4.      Ensure that you have members assigned for pick up from and delivery to the airport.
5.       Offer translation services, if available, for presentation slides in advance if her native language is different.
6.       Check if your speaker has any specific allergies to foods or other items.
7.       Inform her of the weather in your area, so she will arrive prepared.
8.       Inquire into her interests/hobbies and plan a list of local tourism sites if she is staying in your area for a few days.
9.       Have fun!

Hosting an ISF speaker is a wonderful opportunity for learning and meeting a new DKG friend and colleague. It is a DKG experience that should not be missed by any state organization.